Breakdown Assistance Cover

Why choose Howden for breakdown cover?

Here at Howden, as an insurance broker with experience tackling motor-related claims, we pride ourselves on doing the heavy lifting, so you don’t have to. Thanks to the great relationships we have with our selected panel of insurers, we make the process of comparing multiple policies, on your behalf, simple and easy. What’s not to like?

We also recognise that each breakdown policy needs to be as individual as its owner, and that’s why we provide a personalised service, focused on getting to know you and finding out exactly what you want from your cover.

Ultimately, whether you need to make a claim, purchase a new policy, or renew an existing one, just know that we’re always here to help.

Benefits of working with Howden:

• We compare breakdown options for you, so you get cover that suits your life.
• We help you choose support that matches where and how you drive.
• Speak to real people who understand Irish driving conditions and common breakdown issues.
• Get the right level of roadside help, towing, and recovery based on your usage.
• We’re there for you when something goes wrong.
• Always just a phone call away with expert insurance advice.

What is breakdown assistance cover?

Breakdown assistance is a support service that helps you get moving again when your car unexpectedly stops, won’t start, or becomes unsafe to drive. Whether it’s a flat battery, a puncture on a rural road, an engine issue, or a breakdown during your morning commute, breakdown assistance gives you access to qualified help when you need it most. A mechanic is sent to your location to repair the issue at the roadside where possible or arrange towing to a nearby garage if the problem can’t be fixed on the spot.

In Ireland, where long journeys, unpredictable weather, and country roads are common, having breakdown assistance provides peace of mind for everyday drivers. With Howden, you get clear advice on the level of breakdown cover on your car insurance policy that suits your driving habits, so you’re never left stranded without support.

What does breakdown assistance include?

Breakdown assistance varies by insurer and car policy. Howden can offer breakdown cover for 365 days a year, and 24 hours a day. This cover also includes the following::

• Roadside repair – A trained mechanic will attempt to fix your car at the breakdown location so you can continue your journey.
• Vehicle recovery and towing – If repairs aren’t possible there and then, your car will be taken to a nearby garage.
• Home start – Help if your car won’t start at home, in your driveway, or at work.
• Flat battery assistance – Jump-starting or testing your battery when your car won’t turn over.
• Puncture support – Tyre changes or temporary repairs to get you back on the road.
• Fuel mis-fill or run‑out help – Assistance if you put the wrong fuel in or run out of fuel completely.
• Key assistance – Support for lost, broken, or locked‑in car keys (policy dependent).
• Passenger transport – Transport to your home or destination if your car can’t continue its journey.

Levels of breakdown cover available

Different drivers need different kinds of breakdown support. Typical levels include:

• Roadside assistance only – Help if your car breaks down on the road, with minor repairs attempted on the spot.
• Roadside assistance + towing – Roadside help plus transport to a nearby garage if your car can’t be fixed.
• Roadside + home start – Cover for breakdowns at home as well as while driving.
• Full nationwide recovery – Roadside help plus towing to your destination anywhere in Ireland if necessary.

This structure helps you match the level of support to your driving habits.

How to decide if you need breakdown assistance cover

Breakdown cover is worthwhile for many Irish drivers, especially if:

• You travel long distances or rely on your car for work.
• You often drive on rural or less serviced roads.
• You own an older car or a car prone to mechanical issues.
• You want peace of mind if you break down far from home.
• You don’t want to manage a breakdown alone or arrange recovery yourself.
• You want reassurance that expert help is always just a phone call away.

Breakdowns are unpredictable and having structured support makes them far less stressful.

*Note: This is a marketing article from Howden Insurance. The information in this guide is accurate at time of publication. This content is provided for general information only and does not constitute financial or insurance advice.