Can You Add Breakdown Cover to Car Insurance After the Policy Has Started?
The short answer? Yes, in most cases, you can. But as always with car insurance, the detail is where things get interesting - and occasionally frustrating.
Adding breakdown cover after taking out your main policy is a common move. Maybe you didn't think you may needed it at the time. Or maybe that first long-distance road trip is suddenly looming and now you're picturing your car doing something dramatic in the middle of nowhere.
Whatever your reason, the option is usually there. The trick is knowing how to add it, what to expect, and when it's really worth doing.
Why Add It Later?
There are plenty of perfectly logical reasons why someone might delay adding breakdown cover:
- You wanted to compare standalone breakdown providers separately
- You were trying to keep your initial premium down
- You didn't realise how exposed you'd feel without it
- Your old breakdown policy was meant to roll over - and didn't
Just imagine: someone gets a great deal on their insurance in March, thinking they'll add extras later. Then summer rolls around, they're 100 miles from home on a family day out, and the car decides now is the perfect time to give up. No breakdown cover. No recovery. Suddenly, that optional extra doesn't seem so optional.
How to Add It (and What It Might Cost)
In most cases, you can contact your insurer at any time during your policy to add breakdown cover as an add-on. Some will let you do it through your online account; others might require a quick phone call. It usually takes effect immediately or within 24 hours - but always double-check.
Do expect a small admin fee from some insurers if you're making mid-term changes. And the cost of the breakdown cover itself will vary depending on:
- The level of cover (roadside only, nationwide recovery, onward travel, etc.)
- Your vehicle's age and mileage
- Your location and how often you drive
The higher the cover, the more peace of mind, but also the more you'll pay. That said, compared to the cost (and chaos) of a flatbed recovery off the M6, even the top-tier plans start to look rather sensible.
Is It Better to Buy Breakdown Cover Separately?
Sometimes, yes. Especially if you want specific features like European cover, or if your main insurer's breakdown add-on is on the pricier side.
Standalone breakdown providers often run promotional rates and can offer things like cover for any vehicle you're driving; not just your own. On the other hand, bundling it with your car insurance means one renewal date, one payment, and less admin.
It's a toss-up between flexibility and convenience. Think about what you value more; and don't assume your insurer is offering the most competitive rate just because it's there on a dropdown menu.
Things to Watch Out For
- Immediate use restrictions - Some insurers won't let you call for assistance within the first 24 or 48 hours of adding the cover.
- Vehicle eligibility - Older or higher-mileage vehicles may be excluded from higher levels of cover.
- Duplicate cover - You might already have breakdown cover through your bank, credit card, or even your vehicle's manufacturer.
The Final Word:: It's Not Just About the Breakdown
Breakdown cover isn't just for spectacular failures on the motorway. Flat battery at home? Lost your keys? Misfuelled at a service station? Depending on your level of cover, it may save the day more often than you think.
Click here to compare car insurance quotes; with and without breakdown cover, to find a setup that works for how and where you drive. You never know when you'll need it, but you'll be glad you've got it.