Cheap Car Insurance With Breakdown Coverage [2024]
Breakdown car insurance covers more than warranties and helps to cover towing costs, replacement rentals, and the car shop of your choice. If you drive on difficult roads, breakdown car insurance might be right for you.
Free Car Insurance Comparison
Compare Quotes From Top Companies and Save
Secured with SHA-256 Encryption
Scott W. Johnson
Licensed Insurance Agent
Scott W Johnson is an independent insurance agent in California. Principal Broker and founder of Marindependent Insurance Services, Scott brings over 25 years of experience to his clients. His Five President’s Council awards prove he uses all he learned at Avocet, Sprint Nextel, and Farmers Insurance to the benefit of his clients. Scott quickly grasped the unique insurance requirements of his...
Licensed Insurance Agent
UPDATED: Apr 15, 2024
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident car insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one car insurance company and cannot guarantee quotes from any single company.
Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from top car companies please enter your ZIP code above to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.
UPDATED: Apr 15, 2024
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident car insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one car insurance company and cannot guarantee quotes from any single company.
Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from top car companies please enter your ZIP code above to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
On This Page
- Breakdown car insurance is not the same thing as an extended warranty
- Warranties usually do not include all the options that come with breakdown car insurance
- Routine vehicle maintenance such as oil changes and alignment is not covered by breakdown insurance
- Compare several companies before committing and buying breakdown insurance
Lots of motorists think that basic roadside assistance and car warranties alone will keep them safe.
Unfortunately, most roadside assistance programs only kick in if you break down a certain amount of miles away from your home. On top of that, many roadside assistance programs will only give your car a jump if the battery is dead.
Enter your ZIP code above for car insurance quotes from multiple companies today!
Car warranties can cover everything from faulty shift gears to engine replacement.
However, if your car breaks down before you get it to the shop, you will have to figure out how to get it there. Then, you will need to call a friend or a taxi to shuttle you around until the car eventually gets fixed.
Breakdown coverage can provide peace of mind for people who commute, families on vacation, or new or young drivers.
There is just no way to tell when or why your automobile may begin to have problems; this makes traveling safely is so important.
Car troubles can happen out of nowhere, so plan ahead to prevent being stranded.
Breakdown coverage provides help if your vehicle breaks down and includes roadside assistance as standard coverage. It’s available for most vehicles, including cars, motorbikes and vans. Your vehicle will be covered regardless of who’s driving. You will get help from a trained mechanic if your vehicle breaks down on the spot. If they can’t, they will help you get it in a garage.
Car troubles can happen out of nowhere, so plan ahead to prevent being stranded. Without coverage, getting a repair or being towed is expensive, so it’s much better to get coverage in advance.
Extended Warranties vs Breakdown Car Insurance
You may wonder if car insurance ever pays for engine failure. Many people confuse extended warranties with breakdown insurance.
Warranties usually come from the manufacturer of the vehicle. It is their way of reassuring you that they have created a good product, one that you can count on — at least for a certain amount of time.
On the other hand, auto insurance is about helping keep the car on the road and protecting the owner.
Depending on what type of breakdown car insurance is purchased for the vehicle, insurance can cover replacement rentals, towing, and the auto shop of your choice.
For some people, having this kind of insurance is better than having to take the car back to the dealer if something goes wrong. If you have an older car, an extended warranty is not a possibility.
Free Car Insurance Comparison
Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap car insurance rates.
Secured with SHA-256 Encryption
Why do people choose car insurance with breakdown coverage?
There are several reasons for purchasing Breakdown Coverage, including:
- Long Distance Road Trips – If you and your family decide to take a trip in your car, breakdown coverage will give you assurance and lessen stress.
- Bundled Insurance Policies – You can save lots of money on your insurance if you purchase multiple policies from the same insurer.
- Frequent Commutes – Driving your car over large distances multiple times a week can take a serious toll on your car. Breakdown coverage can provide you with an alternate means to get to work if you car breaks down.
What is covered by breakdown car insurance?
Your plan should cover mechanical repairs and problems with the electrical system or electronic devices on your car. Breakdown car insurance also covers high-cost items such as:
- Transmission
- Engine block
- Starter
- Master cylinder
- Alternator
- Water pump
- Carburetor or fuel injector
- Prop shaft
Breakdown coverage isn’t a one-time benefit. Most policies allow you to use your coverage on multiple cars anywhere from four to six times a year.
You don’t even have to be the driver to qualify. That means that you can be the passenger in someone else’s car and still use your breakdown coverage to get help.
Just to be clear, standard and premium breakdown coverage does pay for all qualifying car repairs.
If your car breaks down on the side of the road, a service person will assist you in identifying the problem.
If your car cannot be jump started or otherwise fixed easily, your car will be towed to the nearest convenient location.
You will ride along in the tow truck and either get dropped off at home or at the repair shop.
Premium and standard breakdown coverage will also provide you with a rental car until the repairs have been made.
If you use your breakdown coverage just one time, you will find that you have already saved money. The cost of a tow can be hundreds of dollars, and if you want the service person to provide on-site analysis, that will be an additional charge.
What isn’t covered by breakdown car insurance?
Prior problems, if any, will not be covered. Repairs caused by misuse or deliberate damage will not be repaired. Regular maintenance such as the following is not covered:
- Tune-ups
- Body work
- Brakes
- Batteries
- Wiper blades
- Spark plugs
- Suspension alignment
- Balancing the wheels
- Filters
- Lubrication
- Coolant and fluids
- Tires
The cost of this coverage will vary depending on the company and policy you choose. Many companies offer different plans at differing rates.
You should compare carefully to make sure of what you are getting. What one company calls the premium plan may not be the same as another company’s plan.
Free Car Insurance Comparison
Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap car insurance rates.
Secured with SHA-256 Encryption
How to save on car insurance with breakdown coverage?
Here are some of the simplest ways to save:
- You will first need to get a few quotes and compare what different insurance companies have to offer. If you have a history of accidents or an unusually high number of claims, you might end up paying more.
- Try your best to go at least six months without any additional penalties to qualify for a no claims bonus discount; in the meantime, you can still get a breakdown coverage policy.
- Paying upfront for the entire year of breakdown cover is a sure way to save the most money.
The Bottom Line: What is breakdown coverage?
If you invest in a great breakdown coverage policy, all out-of-pocket expenses associated with your car trouble will be paid.
This means that if you are on a time-sensitive business trip and your car breaks down, your additional travel expenses will be paid for you.
Everyone doesn’t travel with the cash or credit necessary to pay for major repairs, so breakdown coverage can provide emergency cash assistance.
Enter your ZIP code below and receive car insurance quotes from companies in your area!
Case Studies: Breakdown Coverage
Case Study 1: Sarah’s Road Trip Rescue
Sarah was on a cross-country road trip when her car suddenly broke down in a remote area. Fortunately, she had breakdown coverage as part of her car insurance policy. She contacted her insurance provider’s roadside assistance service, and they dispatched a trained mechanic to assess the issue.
Since the mechanic couldn’t fix the car on the spot, they arranged for a tow truck to transport Sarah and her vehicle to the nearest repair shop. The breakdown coverage also included a rental car while her car was being repaired, ensuring Sarah could continue her journey without major disruptions.
Case Study 2: Mark’s Commuter Convenience
Mark commuted to work every day, relying on his car to get him there on time. One morning, his car wouldn’t start, and he was worried about being late. Luckily, Mark had breakdown coverage. He contacted his insurance provider, and within a short time, a roadside assistance professional arrived and diagnosed a dead battery.
The professional jump-started the car, allowing Mark to get to work. Later, Mark had his battery replaced at a local repair shop, and the breakdown coverage covered the repair costs. Having breakdown coverage saved Mark from the stress and financial burden of unexpected car troubles.
Case Study 3: Emma’s Family Vacation Peace of Mind
Emma and her family were embarking on a vacation road trip. With breakdown coverage included in their car insurance, they felt confident and secure. Unfortunately, their car experienced a mechanical issue while they were on the road.
Emma immediately contacted her insurance provider’s roadside assistance, and they dispatched a mechanic to their location. The mechanic was able to fix the issue on the spot, enabling Emma and her family to continue their vacation without significant delays. The breakdown coverage not only provided timely assistance but also saved them from unexpected repair expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mechanical Breakdown Insurance (MBI)?
Mechanical Breakdown Insurance (MBI) is an insurance policy that covers the cost of repairs or replacements for mechanical and electrical failures of a vehicle, typically after the manufacturer’s warranty has expired. It helps protect against unexpected repair expenses that can arise due to mechanical breakdowns.
How does Mechanical Breakdown Insurance differ from an extended warranty?
Mechanical Breakdown Insurance and extended warranties are similar in that they both provide coverage for vehicle repairs. However, MBI is typically offered by insurance companies and can be purchased separately from the vehicle purchase, while extended warranties are usually offered by the vehicle manufacturer or dealership and are often included in the purchase price. MBI may also offer more flexibility in terms of coverage options and providers.
Why do people choose car insurance with breakdown coverage?
There are several reasons for purchasing Breakdown Coverage, including:
- Peace of mind for people who commute, families on vacation, or new or young drivers.
- Protection against unexpected car breakdowns and expensive repair costs.
- Assistance in getting your vehicle repaired or towed to a garage.
- Availability of roadside assistance services.
What do you get with breakdown coverage?
Breakdown coverage provides help if your vehicle breaks down and includes roadside assistance as standard coverage. It’s available for most vehicles, including cars, motorbikes, and vans. Your vehicle will be covered regardless of who’s driving. You will get help from a trained mechanic if your vehicle breaks down on the spot. If they can’t fix it on the spot, they will help you get it to a garage.
How to save on car insurance with breakdown coverage?
Here are some of the simplest ways to save:
- Compare quotes from multiple car insurance companies to find the best rates.
- Consider bundling your breakdown coverage with other insurance policies for potential discounts.
- Maintain a good driving record to qualify for lower premiums.
- Increase your deductible, if financially feasible, to lower your premium.
What are the major benefits of breakdown coverage?
If you invest in a great breakdown coverage policy, all out-of-pocket expenses associated with your car trouble will be paid. Some major benefits include:
- Coverage for emergency repairs and towing services.
- Rental car reimbursement until repairs are completed.
- Assistance with additional travel expenses in case of breakdowns during important trips.
- Peace of mind and financial protection against unexpected breakdown costs.
Are there any limitations or exclusions with Mechanical Breakdown Insurance?
Yes, Mechanical Breakdown Insurance policies often have certain limitations and exclusions. Common exclusions may include pre-existing conditions, wear and tear, routine maintenance services, cosmetic damages, and damages caused by accidents or negligence. It’s important to review the policy details carefully to understand what is covered and what is not.
How do I compare Mechanical Breakdown Insurance policies?
When comparing Mechanical Breakdown Insurance policies, consider the following factors:
- Coverage: Review the specific components and systems covered under each policy.
- Deductible: Determine the amount you would need to pay out of pocket for each claim.
- Limits: Check if there are any limits on the total payout or the number of claims allowed.
- Provider network: See if the policy restricts you to specific repair facilities or if you have the freedom to choose.
- Additional benefits: Look for any extra benefits included, such as roadside assistance or rental car coverage.
- Cost: Compare the premiums of different policies, keeping in mind the level of coverage provided.
Free Car Insurance Comparison
Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap car insurance rates.
Secured with SHA-256 Encryption
Scott W. Johnson
Licensed Insurance Agent
Scott W Johnson is an independent insurance agent in California. Principal Broker and founder of Marindependent Insurance Services, Scott brings over 25 years of experience to his clients. His Five President’s Council awards prove he uses all he learned at Avocet, Sprint Nextel, and Farmers Insurance to the benefit of his clients. Scott quickly grasped the unique insurance requirements of his...
Licensed Insurance Agent
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.