The AA or the RAC: Which breakdown cover provider is better?

Breaking down on the road is an inconvenience nearly every driver faces at some point—74% of UK drivers have experienced a car breakdown at least once. Without the best reliable breakdown cover, even a minor issue can quickly become a frustrating, stressful, and costly ordeal.

Luckily, there are plenty of personal breakdown cover providers in the UK, like the AA and the RAC, to provide the necessary assistance when things go wrong. But which is better: the AA or the RAC? This guide compares each company’s options and key features to help you decide which provider is the best fit for your needs.

Before we get into the comparison, let’s explore what a solid breakdown policy should cover. In short, it should cover all the common issues that can render your car immobile. These include:

Next, let’s explore the factors to consider when choosing a breakdown service provider:

A quick response time is critical when stranded on the side of the road. So, when comparing options, check how quickly the provider guarantees to reach you and whether it has a reputation for meeting those timeframes.

Ensure the provider’s coverage extends to the areas you frequent (including international destinations if you drive abroad). Some providers may have regional limitations or additional fees for coverage in certain areas.

Roadside Assistance is standard in most breakdown policies. The availability of other types of cover—like Home Start, National Recovery, and Onward Travel—may vary by provider. Consider what services or types of cover are essential for your driving habits or car and prioritise providers who offer them.

Compare prices across providers, but also consider the value you’re getting for your money. The cheapest option may not always provide the best service. Sometimes, paying a bit more can ensure faster, more reliable assistance, which could save you money in the long run.

Many providers offer optional add-ons, such as legal assistance or key and battery replacement. Assess your driving habits to determine which extras might be helpful, and look for a provider that offers them.

A reliable provider should have a strong network of experienced patrols and technicians. A larger team means quicker response times, even during peak periods, and provides dependable support no matter where you break down.

The AA is the largest breakdown cover provider in the UK, currently boasting a 40% market share.

The firm offers roadside assistance as standard, ensuring you get help if your car breaks down more than one-fourth of a mile from home. A patrol will come to your location to try to repair your vehicle or, if necessary, tow it to a local garage.

Beyond this essential service, the AA allows you to customise your coverage with the following options:

The AA also offers European breakdown cover as a separate policy.

When signing up for a policy with the AA, you can choose between personal cover and vehicle cover.

The AA’s personal cover comes in 3 variations:

Vehicle cover protects a specific car, regardless of who’s behind the wheel.

The RAC offers a range of breakdown cover options similar to the AA, with only minor differences in coverage specifics.

First, you can choose between personal and vehicle breakdown cover:

As for coverage levels, the RAC offers the following options:

The RAC bundles its breakdown cover into 3 core plans:

Onward Travel and European Recovery are available as optional extras for all plans.

The AA and the RAC are trusted names in the UK breakdown cover industry. However, each has distinct advantages and strengths that may suit different needs. Both companies also have weaknesses, some of which may be a deal breaker depending on your priorities.

Below is a side-by-side comparison to help you decide which personal breakdown cover might be the better fit for you.

Both providers offer comprehensive breakdown cover options like Roadside Assistance, Home Start, National Recovery, Onward Travel, and European Rescue. In addition, both have more than 100 years of experience in the industry and enjoy excellent reputations, as evidenced by multiple 5-star ratings on review platforms.

The starting prices are also similar, although RAC has a slight advantage due to its price guarantee.

However, the AA has a more extensive service network, with 2,800+ patrols across the UK. That means faster response times, so the AA may be the better choice if speedy service is your priority.

On the other hand, the RAC is ideal for households with multiple vehicles, as it covers up to 3 cars under 1 policy. The RAC also provides personal cover for up to 5 people, 1 more than the AA.

Another key difference is in callouts. The AA offers unlimited callouts at all coverage levels, while the RAC limits callouts for its entry and mid-tier plans. If you have an older car or frequent breakdowns, the AA could be the better alternative.

Since both providers have unique strengths, the best choice depends on your needs and priorities. The AA excels in response times and unlimited callouts, while the RAC is better suited for multi-vehicle or family coverage.

The average wait time in the industry is 40-60 minutes, with most motorists receiving assistance within this time window. That said, response times can vary depending on factors like location, traffic conditions, and the time of day.

Breakdown cover with Roadside Assistance usually includes basic repairs to get you moving again. If the issue can’t be fixed roadside, the patrol will tow your car to a nearby garage. If your policy includes Parts and Garage cover, it may also pay the repair cost. Otherwise, you’ll need to pay out of pocket.

Breakdown cover in the UK typically costs between £40 and £200 per year on average, depending on the provider and the level of coverage. Seasonal promotions and discounts can also influence the final price.