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Why Most Drivers Make A Costly Mistake With Mechanical Breakdown Insurance

By Emily Williamson·
Why Most Drivers Make A Costly Mistake With Mechanical Breakdown Insurance

If your car breaks down and the warranty has expired, then mechanical breakdown insurance can cover you for any necessary repairs.

Do you need it?

It may be one of those types of cover you think you don’t need if you’d rather cover the cost of repairs yourself, but these may be extensive, and breakdown insurance may well cover you for more than a manufacturer’s warranty.

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When to get it?

Although you may think you only need it when your car is older, most insurers won’t sell a policy for a car that is older than 18 months, so you need to get it when you car is still fairly new.

What to look for?

Policies vary greatly, especially if you are paying less for them, so you should check whether if covers breakdowns caused by normal wear and tear, or lack of routine maintenance for example. You also need to know what they classify as a ‘mechanical breakdown’ and whether you can use the mechanic of your choice. Furthermore check what are the claims limits are and how much the deductibles are.

Cost

The premiums will depend on a number of factors including the age and mileage of your car; it’s history and its current status. After purchasing the policy you can usually renew it for a specified number of years or until it reaches a certain mileage. As always, it pays to shop around and most importantly to read the small print.

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Emily Williamson

About the Author

Emily Williamson

Emily Williamson is a personal finance expert dedicated to helping readers find genuine savings and smart shopping strategies. With years of experience in consumer finance, Emily combines practical advice with trusted insights to guide you toward smarter financial decisions.

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