AA van with Jeep SUV broken down in Kensington Gardens

Should I consider a small breakdown company?

Let’s tackle a common question we get from many drivers on choosing the right breakdown cover: does the service offered by small breakdown providers match up against the policies offered by larger companies like the AA or RAC?

While you might think of the big names like AA and RAC being a no brainier, there are smaller options worth exploring.

When your car suddenly stops working on the side of the road, having breakdown cover can be a big help.

Breakdown cover is like a safety net for your car. You’ve probably seen those yellow AA trucks helping out stranded drivers. But there are also smaller companies like AutoAid and Start Rescue that do things a bit differently.

Why should I consider a smaller breakdown provider?

The big companies have their own trucks and skilled workers. Smaller companies work with local services to cover the whole country. Imagine your car breaks down somewhere far from home. Smaller companies often get to you in just 20 to 30 minutes.

Andrew Isidoro, Editor at MoneyRaters says “These smaller companies are not just about saving money – they focus on giving you a personalised service. They can be more flexible than the major players but it’s vital to read all the details in your policy. Sometimes things aren’t covered, and it’s better to know beforehand than when you’re stuck on the hard shoulder”

Why should I consider a major breakdown provider like the AA or RAC?

Now, let’s talk about the big names like the AA. They’ve been around for 40 years and are known for their yellow trucks. But being part of the AA club can be expensive. Membership fees have gone up a lot since the 1970s. Still, the AA promises to be there for you anytime, day or night. They have skilled workers who can usually reach you in about 40 minutes.

Sometimes people online complain about the AA’s fees, but most of them stick around for an average of 11 years. New members even get special prices, and long-time members can get extra services.

So, which is the better choice?

Well, it depends on what you need. Smaller companies might be faster and more flexible. Bigger companies offer lots of services, but they can cost more. Before you decide, think about what kind of help your car might need.

Whether you choose a big or small company, make sure you’re covered for those unexpected breakdowns and safe on the road.