Breakdown & Recovery

Breakdown cover is a service that can provide assistance if a vehicle breaks down due to a mechanical or electrical problem. Depending on the provider and policy selected, services may include roadside assistance, vehicle recovery, home assistance and onward travel.

Breakdown cover varies between providers. Common services include roadside assistance, vehicle recovery and optional extras such as home assistance or onward travel. The services available, limitations and exclusions depend on the individual provider's terms and conditions.

No, breakdown cover is not a legal requirement in the UK. However, motorists may choose to purchase it to access assistance if their vehicle breaks down unexpectedly.

Roadside assistance generally involves a technician attending a broken-down vehicle and attempting repairs. Vehicle recovery involves transporting the vehicle when it cannot be repaired at the roadside. The distance and destination covered depend on the provider's service terms.

Some breakdown providers offer home assistance, often referred to as Home Start. This may provide assistance if a vehicle fails to start at or near the policyholder's home address. Availability and eligibility depend on the provider and level of cover purchased.

Some breakdown providers accept older vehicles, although eligibility requirements and vehicle age restrictions may apply. Motorists should check the relevant provider's terms before purchasing.

Many breakdown services provide assistance for common problems such as flat batteries and punctures. However, replacement parts, tyres and batteries may involve additional charges. The services included depend on the provider and policy.

Some breakdown providers offer immediate cover, while others apply waiting periods or restrictions for existing faults. Motorists should confirm the start date, eligibility requirements and any exclusions directly with the provider.

If possible, leave the motorway at the next exit or motorway service area. If this is not possible, follow official motorway breakdown safety guidance.

Where safe, move to an emergency area or hard shoulder, activate your hazard warning lights and exit away from moving traffic to a place of safety.

If you cannot reach a safe stopping place or it is unsafe to leave your vehicle, remain inside with your seat belt fastened and call 999.

For further information, consult The Highway Code, Rules 275–279.

Personal breakdown cover generally provides assistance to a named individual travelling in eligible vehicles, subject to the policy terms.

Vehicle breakdown cover generally applies to a specified vehicle, regardless of who is driving, provided the relevant policy conditions are met.

Availability and restrictions vary between providers.

European breakdown assistance is available from some providers, either as a separate product or an additional feature. Geographical restrictions, vehicle eligibility, trip duration limits and recovery arrangements vary. Always check the provider's terms before travelling.

No. Motor Bridge UK does not provide, sell, underwrite or administer breakdown cover.

Our website provides general motoring information and links to independent third-party providers where motorists can explore available services.

Any breakdown cover purchased is arranged directly through the relevant provider, subject to their own terms, conditions and eligibility requirements.

Motor Bridge UK does not operate a breakdown cover price comparison service.

We provide information and referral links to third-party services. Visitors can follow these links to explore the products, prices and services offered directly by the relevant providers.

Motor Bridge UK does not provide personalised recommendations or advice about which breakdown cover policy to purchase.

Any providers featured on our website are presented for general information and referral purposes. Motorists should independently consider their requirements and review the provider's terms before making a purchase.

Motor Bridge UK may receive a referral fee or affiliate commission when visitors use certain partner links or purchase services through them.

This helps support the operation of our website and motoring information services.

Where a link is commercial, we identify it accordingly. Any purchase takes place directly with the third-party provider.