Breakdown cover offers a vital safety net for motorists, promising assistance when vehicle troubles strike. Knowing that help is just a phone call away provides significant peace of mind, whether you’re facing a flat tire in the pouring rain or an engine issue on a dark night.
But what happens when the breakdown service can’t fix your car at the roadside? If your vehicle requires garage repairs, a common question arises: Does standard car breakdown cover include parts and labour?
In most standard breakdown cover policies, the answer is no. Typically, you, the vehicle owner, are responsible for covering the costs of replacement car parts, such as a new battery or alternator, and the labour charges associated with fitting them.
Understanding Parts Provided by Breakdown Cover Providers
While standard policies usually don’t cover parts and labour costs, breakdown providers may carry some common parts to get you moving again. For instance, a technician might have a spare fan belt or battery in their van. However, even if the breakdown provider supplies these parts at the roadside, you will generally be charged for them, unless you have specifically purchased Car Breakdown Cover With Parts And Labour.
The expense of car parts can vary significantly. A simple replacement like a fan belt might be relatively inexpensive, but more complex components, such as a new gearbox, can run into thousands. These costs fall outside the scope of typical breakdown cover.
The Advantage of Car Breakdown Cover with Parts and Labour
For more comprehensive protection, consider car breakdown cover with parts and labour. This enhanced type of policy, sometimes available as an add-on, provides financial coverage for the cost of replacement parts and the mechanic’s labour to install them, after you pay any applicable excess. This can save you from unexpected and potentially large repair bills following a breakdown.
What Does Standard Breakdown Cover Actually Include?
Breakdown cover policies are generally structured in two main ways:
- Vehicle-based cover: This covers a specific registered vehicle, regardless of who is driving it.
- Personal cover: This covers an individual, protecting them in any vehicle they are travelling in, whether as a driver or passenger.
The specific features and benefits of breakdown cover can differ significantly between insurers. It’s essential to carefully compare policies to understand what each one offers.
For a detailed comparison of breakdown cover options, you can explore further resources here.
Always Read Your Policy Document
Whether you already have breakdown cover or are considering purchasing a policy, meticulously reviewing the policy document is crucial. This document outlines precisely what is included and excluded in your chosen level of cover. As highlighted, car parts and labour cover is not typically a standard inclusion in basic breakdown policies.
Staying Ahead of Potential Issues
Breakdown cover is undoubtedly a valuable asset for drivers, offering reassurance and assistance when things go wrong. However, proactive vehicle maintenance is equally important. Regularly servicing your car and addressing minor issues promptly can minimize the risk of breakdowns and potentially expensive garage bills for parts and labour in the long run.
For reliable and affordable breakdown cover options, get a quote from us today and explore policies that can include parts and labour cover for ultimate peace of mind.
