Personal cover
This covers a named individual on any van. You can climb into any vehicle knowing that you are protected. Crucially, you’re covered whether you are driving or a passenger – a valuable option for firms with a busy, mobile workforce
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What is van breakdown cover?
The main purpose of van breakdown cover is to take the stress out of unexpected breakdowns. It’s all about getting you moving again as quickly as possible, whether that’s through quick fixes at the roadside or arranging transport for you, your passengers, and your van to where you need to be.
Van breakdown cover typically offers roadside assistance, vehicle recovery and transport to a garage for repairs. It can also cover you if your van gets a flat tyre or if you accidentally put the wrong fuel in your van.
There are different levels of coverage available, from basic local assistance to more comprehensive options like nationwide or European cover, allowing drivers to tailor their plan to their specific needs and budget.
Some providers specifically exclude cover for vans used for commercial and business use, so it’s important that you know what you are buying before taking a policy out.
Do I need breakdown cover?
Breakdown cover isn’t a legal requirement, but it’s a total lifesaver when you’re stuck on the side of the road.
🚩 Here’s why it’s worth having:
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It’s your go-to backup
- for those unexpected van breakdowns or mechanical issues so you don’t have to stress if it does happen.
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Most plans include
- 24/7 helplines and roadside assistance, so you’ve always got someone to call, no matter the time or place.
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It can save you a fortune
- on towing fees or the hassle of finding alternative transport for you and your passengers.
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With nationwide coverage
- you’re sorted whether you’re cruising in the countryside or navigating the city - it’s especially handy for long trips or unfamiliar routes.
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Most importantly
- it gives you peace of mind knowing help is just a phone call away.
Do I take out van breakdown insurance for myself or my vehicle?
When choosing van breakdown cover, you’ll come across two types.
Each has its own benefits, so the right choice depends on what fits your needs best.
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Vehicle cover
This is where the van itself is protected, regardless of who is driving it. This allows for considerable flexibility, as drivers can be allocated to vehicles without having to check that they have cover in place under their own name
Which van breakdown cover should I choose?
Van breakdown cover offers various levels of protection and services, ensuring you’re prepared for all sorts of situations. While roadside assistance is included as standard, you can choose additional options such as:
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Roadside assistance
If your van breaks down a certain distance - usually a quarter of a mile -from home or work, a recovery vehicle will attempt roadside repairs. If that’s not possible, your van will typically be towed to the nearest garage.
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National coverage
Ideal for those who travel long distances, this option provides recovery from anywhere in the UK and ensures your van is taken to your local garage if it can’t be repaired on the spot.
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European breakdown cover
Perfect for businesses operating in Europe, this cover protects you abroad. Be sure to check for any country exclusions in the policy details.
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Home start
Helps if your van won’t start at home, work, or within a specified distance, which varies by provider.
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Onward journey cover
If repairs can’t be made quickly, this option might include a replacement van, overnight accommodation, or reimbursement for onward travel expenses.
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Parts and garage cover
Helps cover the cost of replacement parts and repairs at a garage if needed.
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Misfuelling cover
Provides support if you or an employee accidentally puts the wrong fuel in the van, covering the associated costs.
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Key cover
Offers help if you lose your keys or lock them inside the van, including locksmith services or key replacements.
How to save money on van breakdown cover?
The cost of van breakdown cover depends on several factors. Personal cover is usually more expensive than vehicle cover because the provider doesn't know which vans will be used. To secure the best deal on your van breakdown cover, you should consider.
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Type of cover
Think about what kind of protection you need. Are you just covering yourself as a driver, or do you need to cover a vehicle or multiple vehicles?
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Level of cover
While roadside assistance is the basic option, consider whether you’d benefit from extra coverage, like nationwide, European, or onward travel protection.
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Type of van
The cost of cover can vary based on your van’s type. Modern vans with more complex features may be pricier to insure, while older vans could come with higher repair costs.
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Small breakdown providers
While big names like the AA or RAC are popular, a smaller, lesser-known provider might offer the same level of service for a lower price.
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Exclusions
Always check the fine print of your policy to spot any exclusions or limits. You don’t want to find out you're not covered for something important!
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Shop around
Take advantage of comparison tools to compare offers from various providers - you might be surprised at how much cheaper you can find cover.
Our expert says…
Van breakdown cover can be essential insurance for vehicles that are clocking up many miles on the roads. It helps get you out of a jam if you do find yourself stranded and gives you peace of mind too. The cheapest option won’t always be the most suitable for you, so check the policy fully for any exclusions, particularly with regard to commercial use.
Sam Meadows Insurance Expert
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Why should I compare breakdown cover with MoneySuperMarket?
Comparing quotes from different insurers allows you to find the best deal out there.
We can do this work for you.
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Looking for other van products?
What happens if I don’t have van breakdown cover?
If you don’t have a breakdown policy you will have to find a garage to help you and you will end up paying a fee. You may also have to arrange for another mode of transport to reach your destination. You might also be able to buy immediate breakdown cover from some providers, but this can only be bought over the phone and not online.
How can I tell the difference between a car and a van?
Check your logbook for the section on vehicle category or vehicle type approval. This will show a letter and number. If it’s ‘M1,’ it’s classified as a car, while ‘N1’ or ‘N2’ indicates a van. If you're unsure, don’t hesitate to reach out to your breakdown cover provider for clarification.
Am I covered if my van breaks down in Europe?
If you've opted for European van breakdown cover, it should cover you across Europe. However, some providers might include or exclude specific countries, so it's important to review the policy details before you head off on your travels.
Am I covered if I breakdown in someone else’s van?
If you regularly drive different vans, it may be wise to opt for personal breakdown cover instead of insuring each van individually. This way, you can drive any van and still benefit from coverage. Additionally, verify if the other vans you're driving are insured for the vehicle itself rather than a specific driver, as this would mean you're already covered
How many times can I call out?
It depends on the provider and the policy. Some offer unlimited callouts, while others set a limit. When comparing van breakdown cover, be sure to check for any restrictions and choose the policy that offers the level of protection you need.
Are the limits on vehicle size for van breakdown cover?
Yes, there can be limits on vehicle size or weight when it comes to van breakdown cover in the UK.
Providers often have specific guidelines about the maximum weight or dimensions of the vans they’ll cover. It’s important to check with your insurer to ensure your van meets their criteria.
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Why should I use a price comparison website?
One of the best ways to get the lowest prices and best deals is to compare quotes from different companies. We do the work for you, comparing quotes side-by-side and giving you all the information you need so you can choose the right deal for your needs and your wallet.
We don’t give recommendations or financial advice, but we give you clear information so you can choose financial products that suit your circumstances.
Does MoneySuperMarket work with all the providers on the market?
No, not every company can be included in our service. This is because some companies don’t want their products included on comparison sites, and some decide that they would rather not pay a fee. There are also a few smaller providers who can struggle to cope with the volume of customers that can find their products if they appear on MoneySuperMarket.
Our goal is to search deals from as wide a range of companies as possible so that you can choose the deal that suits you.
Is breakdown insurance eligible for SuperSaveClub and rewards?
No, at this time breakdown insurance is not an eligible product for unlocking our SuperSaveClub rewards. It is also not included in our Price Promise.
Reviewed on 17 Dec 2025
YouGov Survey 1st July 2024 to 30th June 2025. Net Recommend score derived from “Which of the following online service websites would you recommend to a friend or colleague, or tell them to avoid?” Base: Current Customers of (MoneySuperMarket n=18,382, Compare the Market n=16,802, Go.Compare n=10,162, Confused.com n=8,229, Uswitch n=528).
From 01.06.23 to 31.05.24 MoneySuperMarket customers received £1.59bn estimated savings based on (i) SuperSaveClub reward redemptions, and (ii) savings claims per product multiplied by the number of sales. Products included - Car, Home, Pet and Travel insurance, Broadband, Credit Cards, Loans and Mortgages.
Accurate as of September 2025