Cover is for a 2014 Mini Paceman unless otherwise stated; * local cover; ** Cover for an individual rather than a car
What to look out for
There are a lot of small differences between policies, and these are sometimes hidden in the small print, so rather than simply opting for the cheapest quote, it’s worth checking for exclusions before you buy.
Common limitations include restrictions on the number of callouts permitted in any 12-month period and on the maximum age of vehicles, with many providers not accepting vehicles more than 16 years old.
It’s also worth checking whether cover for loss of keys, and for misfuelling – putting petrol in the tank of a diesel car or vice versa – are included, because both of these are common reasons for needing to call out a breakdown provider.
Failure of the car’s 12-volt battery is the most common callout reason, so the RAC’s offer of a free replacement battery with its cover might appeal to anyone whose car battery hasn’t been replaced for many years.
The most common causes of breakdowns
Most car breakdowns are caused by minor issues, and in many instances you could prevent your car from letting you down by doing some regular checks and maintenance. Here, we look at the six most common culprits and how to prevent them.
1. Flat or faulty battery
Battery failure is the number one reason for recovery callouts. It’s more common in the winter, when low temperatures can affect the electrolyte liquid inside a battery, making it less able to hold a charge.
The winter months also involve more driving in dark, cold conditions, and the lights – together with features such as heated seats and heated rear windscreens – putting more strain on the battery.
