Breakdown Cover FAQs

Other Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, our friendly and experienced UK rescue teams are on hand 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Q. Am I covered by RAC Breakdown if my windscreen gets broken or damaged?

No, RAC Membership doesn’t cover windscreen damage.

Q. If I lose my car keys and can’t get into the car, would that be covered?

We’ll try our best to unlock your car however, if we can’t, we’ll arrange for a locksmith to come. You’ll need to pay for these costs.

If a locksmith isn’t available, we’ll take your vehicle to a nearby garage, but you’ll have to pay for any work done.

If you’ve bought our Key Replace product you’ll be covered for up to £1,500 in costs for replacement keys and locks.

Q. Do I need to show ID when I’m rescued?

You must show ID when our patrol arrives, otherwise we may refuse to service your breakdown or you’ll be charged.

Q. What happens if there are no garages within 10 miles?

With Basic cover we’ll tow you up to 10 miles to a garage or a place you choose. If you need longer, you may have to pay a surcharge.

With Extra and Complete cover we’ll tow you to any garage or place you choose in the UK, Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man.

Q. Is there an age limit for RAC Membership?

This depends on the type of cover you have…

Personal-based breakdown cover

No restrictions on age. You’re covered on any eligible vehicle.

Vehicle-based breakdown cover

This covers the vehicle, so you have to have a licence to drive/ride.

Therefore, a rider must be at least 16 years old and a driver 17 years old.

Q. Can I call out for my friend?

If you have Personal Breakdown Cover and are travelling in the broken down vehicle as a passenger or driver you can call RAC and we’ll come and rescue you.

Q. Can I get help if/when away from home I become too unwell to drive?

Yes, if you have National Recovery cover.

This covers you if you’re unwell before you finish your journey and no one else can drive the vehicle.

You’ll need to show some form of medical certificate and the service we provide is at our discretion.

Q. Is there a charge for replacement parts or batteries?

We do charge for replacement parts, fuel or batteries but the cost of the roadside labour is included in your Breakdown Cover.

Our high quality parts come with 1 year guarantee and batteries with 3 years guarantee. We even recycle your old battery!

If you’ve bought Tyre Replace or Battery Replace products you may be covered for Tyre/Battery costs. 

Q. How do I file a breakdown-related complaint?

We pride ourselves in our service and are sorry you aren’t happy with part of it. We want to hear where we’ve fallen short and how we can improve.

If you have a complaint, please email us through our contact form and we’ll get back to you. Alternatively, give us a call on 0330 159 1111.

RAC contact options

It’s often quicker to get the help you need online. To see all the latest help and information regarding your breakdown membership you can visit our Member query pages:

Contact us

To speak to us about your existing or a new membership, please call 0330 159 1111

Mon-Fri 8am to 7pm, Sat 9am to 5pm, bank holidays 9am to 5pm.

Email us your query by clicking here

Breakdown cover from just £7 a month

  • Roadside Assistance included with all cover levels
  • Our patrols fix 4 out of 5 on the spot – with repairs done in 30 minutes on average
  • We won't charge you a penny for roadside labour and fitting