🚐 Van Breakdown Cover: All You Need to Know About

Last Updated on October, 2024

What are you looking for? Do you want a detailed idea about van breakdown insurance, or do you want to know some basics? I don’t want to waste your time. So, I’ll directly come to the point.

I have discussed everything about van breakdown coverage, but not in a boring way. 

Multiple providers are offering UNIQUE services. But to be eligible, you need to have some basic understanding of national recovery, vehicle type approval, levels of cover, legal requirements, be able to compare breakdown cover, and much more.

That’s why I’m here.

Quick Summary

• Van breakdown cover is important for providing roadside assistance and peace of mind in the event of unexpected breakdowns during a journey.
• There are multiple providers offering unique services, but it is important to have a basic understanding of national recovery, vehicle type approval, and legal requirements when comparing breakdown cover.
• Factors to consider when choosing van breakdown cover include the level of coverage (such as national or European recovery), personal vs. vehicle cover, and understanding inclusions and limitations of the policy.

About Van Breakdown Cover

Van breakdown insurances provide roadside assistance if your van breaks down unexpectedly. If you ask me, “How?” I’ll tell you. 

A mobile mechanic will come to fix your van and get it back on the road ASAP. If the issue can’t be resolved on the spot, your van will typically be towed to a nearby garage for repairs.

However, it’s important to note that some providers don’t currently give this cover for commercial or business vans.

Next, I’ll discuss why you need van breakdown cover(s).

Why a Cover for Van Breakdowns?

Listen, while it’s not required by law, having cover for your van can give you peace of mind. If your van unexpectedly breaks down during a journey, having a breakdown cover means that it will be on the way. 

If you use your van for work, like being a plumber, builder, or dog-walker, any delays on the road could end up costing you money. Isn’t it?

You might even miss out on a job and lose the opportunity to give a breakdown cover quote for new business or disappoint your customers. If you have this cover, a mechanic can often fix your van on the spot, getting you back in business quickly. 

If you have annual coverage, some providers help with a spare tyre, replacement van (temporarily), and more. Now, what happens if you don’t have a cover for your van?

Well, if your van breaks down, you’ll have to deal with the costs of getting it recovered, like paying for towing fees. On top of that, you may need to arrange and pay for another way to get where you need to go.

So, having this cover can save you both time and money in these situations.

Cost of Van Breakdown Cover

If you drive multiple vans, the price of the breakdown cover can vary depending on the protection level you choose. I usually check the details on different breakdown provider websites. However, I’ll tell you the random cost through analysis. 

Many providers offer affordable van roadside support with three levels of van cover OPTIONS. Basically, the one-star policy provides the cheapest van breakdown cover while still offering a wide range of benefits.

On the other hand, the three-star policy provides the most comprehensive van breakdown recovery package. Each coverage OPTION not only varies in price but also includes a range of additional extras. 

Note: If you want to compare prices, directly visit the website you want and get the update.

Personal Cover vs Vehicle Cover

The difference is so easy to understand. If you have a personal breakdown cover, it’s linked to you, not a specific vehicle. This means if any vehicle you’re in breaks down, the provider will help, no matter whether you’re driving or a passenger.

It’s a great choice if you drive different vans or vehicles regularly. On the other hand, the vehicle breakdown cover is tied to the specific vehicle. It doesn’t matter who’s driving, as long as it’s the protected vehicle. This can be useful if you share your van with someone else.

Are you clear now? (Great, that’s what I expected.)

What are the Levels of Van Breakdown Cover?

• National Recovery Cover: Besides fixing your van on the roadside, this cover takes you and your van anywhere in the UK. 
• Roadside Assistance: This is the basic level where a breakdown expert tries to fix your van on the spot. And if they can’t, your van will be pulled to the nearest garage or your home. 
• European Breakdown Cover: This European cover extends your coverage to the rest of Europe. You can check each provider’s coverage policy to know which countries are included.
• Home Start: If your van won’t start at home or breaks down close by, a recovery service is arranged. The distance covered varies but is typically within a quarter of a mile.
• Onward Journey Cover: If your van can’t be fixed on the roadside, the cover pays for continuing your journey. It could include staying in a hotel as an overnight accommodation or alternative transport while yours is being repaired.

Note: Always carefully read your policy to understand exactly what it covers.

What is Included in Van Recovery Breakdown Policy?

Typically, Van roadside support and recovery policies come with a variety of benefits as standard, such as limited callouts, misfuel cover, recovery vehicle, and a flat battery. 

Roadside support/assistance for your van is included in all three cover levels. Still, additional services like van cover at your registered home address are OPTIONAL, depending on the level of breakdown cover you choose.

You can select the van breakdown cover policy that best suits your needs. This way, you can customise your coverage based on what you require.

Do I Need Business Cover?

Consider getting fleet or business breakdown coverage if you own more than one van for your business instead of individual vehicle plans.

With fleet coverage, you can choose how many vans to include. Similar to individual van breakdown insurance, it includes standard roadside assistance. You also have the OPTION to add more features like nationwide recovery and home assistance.

Fleet insurance is specifically designed to cover multiple vehicles in your business and any authorised driver.

Are There Any Vehicle Size or Weight Limits for a Van Breakdown Cover?

Breakdown policies cover any van, car-derived van, pickup, or motorhome as long as it follows the size and weight limits mentioned in the terms and conditions. However, some breakdown policies don’t cover vehicles used for hire and reward purposes.

Here are the size or weight restrictions:

• Maximum Weight (gross): 3.5 tonnes
• Total Width: 2.3 metres (7 feet and 6 inches)
• Full Length: 7.6 metres (21 feet)

Note: This can differ from one service provider to another. So, it’s ALWAYS BEST to check their terms and conditions before you take a step forward.

How Can I Save Money on a Van Breakdown Cover?

TRUST ME. If you remember the following steps, you can choose a cheap van breakdown cover and save your money. The STEPS are super easy!

First, figure out what you want to cover – is it just you, your van, or more than one vehicle? (Got the clarity?) Next, pick the level of cover you need.

Basic protection usually comes with roadside support/assistance, but you might want coverage that extends nationwide or even internationally. 

Take the time to look around and compare different breakdown cover OPTIONS from various providers. Finally, make sure you understand what the policy (including the annual policy) doesn’t cover and any limitations before you decide to buy.

Pros and Cons 

Everything has its pros and cons. I’m sharing both sides to help you understand to what extent it can help you and to decide whether it’s worth the money. 

Understood? Okay, I’ll tell you the pros first.

Pros of Van Breakdown Cover

• Cost Saving: The subscription fee covers the cost of assistance. Without a breakdown cover, calling a mechanic may incur higher charges, especially if pulling is required.
• Convenience: It provides convenience during unexpected breakdowns. Instead of searching for local mechanics on your own, the service comes to you, saving time and stress.
• Prepaid Assistance: With breakdown cover, you’ve already paid for the help needed, eliminating the need to find and negotiate with mechanics. The service provider comes equipped with the necessary support on the same day.
• Peace Of Mind: Knowing that breakdown assistance is readily available can give you mental peace while travelling by reducing the anxiety associated with potential vehicle issues.
• Expertise And Equipment: Breakdown services often come with skilled professionals and specialised equipment, increasing the likelihood of quick problem resolution compared to relying on a local mechanic.

Cons of Van Breakdown Cover

• Service Levels: Choosing between different service levels can be a challenge. Basic roadside assistance might not cover vehicle recovery or onward travel, requiring additional, often more expensive, plans.
• Insurance Provider Variability: While some insurance providers offer breakdown cover as part of their policies, not all do. It’s essential to check and ensure that your insurance plan includes the desired level of breakdown assistance.

Relevant guides:

• Classic Car Breakdown Cover
• Family Breakdown Cover
• Taxi Breakdown Cover

Conclusion

Van breakdown coverage is significant to ensure safe travel – even if it’s a single trip.

You will somehow go for one. However, remember my SIMPLE advice. ‘Going for the cheapest OPTION is not always the best idea.’ So, before you commit to one, read the policy thoroughly, particularly with regard to commercial use.

This way, you can save time and money!

FAQs