Breakdowns on the road are never pleasant, but with a hire car, you want assistance even more quickly. Fortunately, breakdown assistance for a hire car is usually straightforward and fast. However, there are differences between rental companies and situations. This article explains exactly how breakdown assistance works, what is and isn't covered, and what you should do if you find yourself stranded with your hire car.
Is roadside assistance usually included with a hire car?
With many landlords, breakdown assistance is included, but this isn't always the case. For this reason, it's wise to check how this is arranged beforehand. In many cases, breakdown assistance is standard with the rental, so you won't pay anything extra. Sometimes you can take out an additional breakdown assistance insurance for extended coverage.
What is covered by breakdown assistance for a hire car?
Breakdown assistance focuses on getting you and your vehicle back on the road quickly and safely. This can include, but is not limited to:
- A flat or broken tyre
- a flat battery
- engine problems
- electrical faults
- key issues, such as leaving keys in the car
- Advice or telephone support in case of breakdown
The exact cover varies by rental company, so it's good to know in advance what applies to you.
What should you do if you have a breakdown with a hire car?
If you break down on the road, in most cases you should follow these steps:
- Stop in a safe place.
- Activate hazard warning lights and exit where it is safe to do so
- Call the emergency number that is on your rental agreement.
- Please clearly state your location and situation
- Follow the instructions of the emergency services
The breakdown service will then come to you to fix the problem or replace your vehicle.
Do you get a replacement car if you break down?
In many cases, yes. If the car cannot be repaired on the spot, a replacement hire car is often arranged. This depends on the rental company's terms and conditions and your location. Within the Netherlands, you will almost always be helped quickly with a replacement vehicle.
Is there a charge for breakdown assistance with a hire car?
This depends on the situation. If breakdown assistance is included as standard, it will not cost you anything extra. However, there are sometimes situations that are not covered, for example:
- Self-inflicted damage due to misuse
- putting the wrong fuel in
- a flat battery due to forgotten lights
- Lost or broken keys
In such cases, a surcharge or repair costs may be charged. In normal breakdown situations, assistance is usually free of charge.
How does roadside assistance abroad work?
If you take a rental car across the border, the coverage may differ. Breakdown assistance is often available, but sometimes limited or at an additional cost. Therefore, always check in advance if you are allowed to travel abroad with your rental car and if breakdown assistance is also valid there. Some rental companies offer extensive European breakdown assistance as an optional extra.
Conclusion
Roadside assistance with a rental car usually works simply: you call the rental company's emergency number and you'll be helped quickly. Roadside assistance is often included, but the coverage varies by rental company and by situation. Knowing in advance how things are arranged will prevent surprises and allow you to set off with peace of mind. With Adrem, we ensure you always know where you stand and that you never get stuck unnecessarily.
Frequently asked questions
Is roadside assistance included with every rental car?
Often yes, but not always. The terms vary from landlord to landlord.
Will I get a replacement car if my rental car cannot be repaired on site?
Yes, usually. The landlord then arranges a replacement vehicle depending on availability.
Which unfortunate situations are not covered?
Damage due to misuse, such as the wrong fuel or lost keys, is often not covered.
How does roadside assistance abroad work?
Breakdown assistance is sometimes limited or at an extra cost. Check the terms and conditions beforehand when you travel abroad.
