Breakdown Cover: What You Need To Know

Breakdown Cover: What You Need To Know

Nov 9, 2023

image of an breakdown triangle at the side of the road awaiting its4women breakdown assistance

No-one wants to be stranded by the roadside with a car breakdown – here’s how breakdown cover can help you when your car is playing up.

Breakdown cover is an additional car insurance benefit if your vehicle breaks down. We will send a recovery operator who will provide up to one hour’s free labour for on the spot repairs and recovery to the nearest garage if the vehicle cannot be repaired in situ. 

What is Breakdown Assistance and Roadside Assistance?

Breakdown cover can help you out if your vehicle breaks down, including common breakdowns such as engine failure, flat batteries, or punctured tyres.

its4women Premier Plus and Telematics Plus car insurance policies give you breakdown cover anywhere in the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland and Great Britain. Breakdown cover services include suitable roadside repairs, towing to a nearby garage, and assistance if you run out of fuel or lose your keys.

Managed by MIS Group our breakdown cover provides ‘peace of mind’ motoring, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Our breakdown wording will outline what is covered, such as roadside repairs, recovery, onward travel, and home start, with some features available as an optional extra for an additional premium. In the event of a breakdown whilst travelling in the Republic of Ireland please telephone 01 804 4328. If you breakdown whilst travelling in the United Kingdom, please call 028 9048 5219.

Coverage are subject to standard membership terms.

Types of Breakdown Assistance Cover

When it comes to protecting yourself against the unexpected, there are several types of breakdown benefits available to suit different needs.

  • Roadside Assistance: If your vehicle breaks down or is involved in an accident away from your home, we will send a recovery operator to assist you. We will provide up to one hour’s free labour at the roadside, however, if your vehicle cannot be repaired on the spot, we will arrange to tow it to the nearest garage, recovery yard or your home, if closer. Note: There is a limit to the number of roadside assistance calls allowed per year as specified in your policy booklet.

  • Home Start Assistance: A dead battery is a bad start to any morning. If your vehicle breaks down, we will send a recovery operator to assist you. Up to one hour’s free labour will be provided, in situ, if on the spot repairs can be made to your vehicle. If your vehicle cannot be repaired in situ, we will arrange to tow it to the nearest garage or to your own garage, if closer.

  • Courtesy car: We will provide a replacement vehicle for up to 3 calendar days (subject to availability), while repairs to your vehicle are being carried out.

  • Punctures: If your vehicle suffers a puncture whilst driving, we will assist with the replacement of your vehicle’s tyre, provided you have a suitable replacement available with the vehicle. If you need to have the flat/punctured tyre repaired or replaced, we will refund you €25 towards the cost of this repair or replacement upon receipt of supporting invoice. Note: If the cost of repair or replacement exceeds €25, you will need to pay the additional amount yourself.

  • Locked / Lost Keys: If the keys to your vehicle are lost, locked in the vehicle or if your keys broken, we will take your vehicle to the nearest secure premises whilst endeavours are made to access the vehicle or obtain alternative keys or by you to obtain alternative keys.

  • Petrol Shortages: In the event your vehicle is immobilised due to a fuel shortage or misfuelling, we will transport your vehicle to the nearest petrol station, charging point or garage to remedy the cause. In addition, to get your vehicle drivable again, we will refund you the cost of 5 litres of fuel upon you supplying a receipt for the cost of the same. Note: If additional fuel or repairs are required beyond this, you may need to pay the extra costs

  • European cover: If you’re planning to drive in Europe, European breakdown cover is a must. This service provides 24-hour emergency assistance, including roadside rescue and repairs, even when you’re abroad. Many policies offer an English-speaking helpline and can arrange towing to the nearest garage or competent repairer, so you’re never left without support.

The right cover can make all the difference if your vehicle breaks down, ensuring you and your passengers are looked after, wherever your journey takes you.

Breakdown Exclusions and Conditions

It’s worth noting that there are some exclusions and terms and conditions of the its4women MIS Breakdown Recovery Service, set out as follows.

  • We are not liable for the cost of repairing the car.

  • We may refuse assistance in circumstances where the driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

  • Breakdown cover is subject to a maximum of three assists per annum. MIS Breakdown will not be responsible where it is asked to provide the service for a fault that was dealt with in the preceding 28 days, excluding punctures.

  • Breakdown cover does not cover theft of the vehicle. Theft is not included under this policy; for theft protection, comprehensive insurance is required.

  • Breakdown cover will only be provided if the vehicle was in a roadworthy condition prior to the incident and has a valid MOT / NCT.

  • Only certain vehicles are eligible for breakdown cover. The policy applies to private cars and light commercial vehicles under 3.5 tonnes, and vehicles must generally be less than 15 years old. Restrictions may apply based on vehicle age or type.

  • Recovery will not be provided if the vehicle is immobile due to snow, ice, or ingress of water.

  • Breakdown cover is restricted to Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland, and Great Britain.

Full breakdown exclusions and conditions can be viewed here.

In the event of a breakdown whilst travelling in the Republic of Ireland please telephone 01 804 4328. If you breakdown whilst travelling in the United Kingdom, please call 028 9048 5219.

Emergency Assistance: What to do if you breakdown

A car mechanical or electrical breakdown can be stressful, but knowing what to do can help keep you and your passengers safe while you wait for breakdown assistance can help.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to follow if your vehicle breaks down:

Move to a safe location: If possible, steer your vehicle to the side of the road, a layby, or a nearby parking area. This helps keep you out of the flow of traffic and reduces the risk of further accidents.

Turn on your hazard lights: Alert other drivers by switching on your hazard lights as soon as your car breaks down. This is especially important if you’re stopped on a busy road or in low visibility conditions.

Call for assistance: Contact your breakdown cover provider’s emergency helpline right away. Make sure you have all the details ready, including your breakdown location, the make and model of your vehicle, and a description of the problem.

Provide all the details: When you speak to the operator, give them your exact location, details about your car, and any information about the issue (such as a flat battery, puncture, or mechanical breakdown). This helps them send the right help to you as quickly as possible.

Wait safely for help to arrive: Stay with your vehicle if it’s safe to do so, and keep your phone charged in case the breakdown assistance team needs to contact you. If you’re on a motorway or a busy road, it’s safer to wait behind a barrier away from traffic.

Follow the technician’s instructions: Once help arrives, the technician will assess the situation and try to repair your vehicle at the roadside. If your car can’t be fixed there, it will be towed to the nearest garage or repairer for further attention.

Remember to keep your breakdown cover provider’s emergency number handy, and consider carrying essentials like a phone charger, first-aid kit, and reflective jacket in your car.

With the right breakdown cover and a clear plan, you’ll be prepared for whatever the road throws your way. In the event of a breakdown whilst travelling in the Republic of Ireland please telephone 01 804 4328. If you breakdown whilst travelling in the United Kingdom, please call 028 9048 5219.



No-one wants to be stranded by the roadside with a car breakdown – here’s how breakdown cover can help you when your car is playing up.

Breakdown cover is an additional car insurance benefit if your vehicle breaks down. We will send a recovery operator who will provide up to one hour’s free labour for on the spot repairs and recovery to the nearest garage if the vehicle cannot be repaired in situ. 

What is Breakdown Assistance and Roadside Assistance?

Breakdown cover can help you out if your vehicle breaks down, including common breakdowns such as engine failure, flat batteries, or punctured tyres.

its4women Premier Plus and Telematics Plus car insurance policies give you breakdown cover anywhere in the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland and Great Britain. Breakdown cover services include suitable roadside repairs, towing to a nearby garage, and assistance if you run out of fuel or lose your keys.

Managed by MIS Group our breakdown cover provides ‘peace of mind’ motoring, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Our breakdown wording will outline what is covered, such as roadside repairs, recovery, onward travel, and home start, with some features available as an optional extra for an additional premium. In the event of a breakdown whilst travelling in the Republic of Ireland please telephone 01 804 4328. If you breakdown whilst travelling in the United Kingdom, please call 028 9048 5219.

Coverage are subject to standard membership terms.

Types of Breakdown Assistance Cover

When it comes to protecting yourself against the unexpected, there are several types of breakdown benefits available to suit different needs.

  • Roadside Assistance: If your vehicle breaks down or is involved in an accident away from your home, we will send a recovery operator to assist you. We will provide up to one hour’s free labour at the roadside, however, if your vehicle cannot be repaired on the spot, we will arrange to tow it to the nearest garage, recovery yard or your home, if closer. Note: There is a limit to the number of roadside assistance calls allowed per year as specified in your policy booklet.

  • Home Start Assistance: A dead battery is a bad start to any morning. If your vehicle breaks down, we will send a recovery operator to assist you. Up to one hour’s free labour will be provided, in situ, if on the spot repairs can be made to your vehicle. If your vehicle cannot be repaired in situ, we will arrange to tow it to the nearest garage or to your own garage, if closer.

  • Courtesy car: We will provide a replacement vehicle for up to 3 calendar days (subject to availability), while repairs to your vehicle are being carried out.

  • Punctures: If your vehicle suffers a puncture whilst driving, we will assist with the replacement of your vehicle’s tyre, provided you have a suitable replacement available with the vehicle. If you need to have the flat/punctured tyre repaired or replaced, we will refund you €25 towards the cost of this repair or replacement upon receipt of supporting invoice. Note: If the cost of repair or replacement exceeds €25, you will need to pay the additional amount yourself.

  • Locked / Lost Keys: If the keys to your vehicle are lost, locked in the vehicle or if your keys broken, we will take your vehicle to the nearest secure premises whilst endeavours are made to access the vehicle or obtain alternative keys or by you to obtain alternative keys.

  • Petrol Shortages: In the event your vehicle is immobilised due to a fuel shortage or misfuelling, we will transport your vehicle to the nearest petrol station, charging point or garage to remedy the cause. In addition, to get your vehicle drivable again, we will refund you the cost of 5 litres of fuel upon you supplying a receipt for the cost of the same. Note: If additional fuel or repairs are required beyond this, you may need to pay the extra costs

  • European cover: If you’re planning to drive in Europe, European breakdown cover is a must. This service provides 24-hour emergency assistance, including roadside rescue and repairs, even when you’re abroad. Many policies offer an English-speaking helpline and can arrange towing to the nearest garage or competent repairer, so you’re never left without support.

The right cover can make all the difference if your vehicle breaks down, ensuring you and your passengers are looked after, wherever your journey takes you.

Breakdown Exclusions and Conditions

It’s worth noting that there are some exclusions and terms and conditions of the its4women MIS Breakdown Recovery Service, set out as follows.

  • We are not liable for the cost of repairing the car.

  • We may refuse assistance in circumstances where the driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

  • Breakdown cover is subject to a maximum of three assists per annum. MIS Breakdown will not be responsible where it is asked to provide the service for a fault that was dealt with in the preceding 28 days, excluding punctures.

  • Breakdown cover does not cover theft of the vehicle. Theft is not included under this policy; for theft protection, comprehensive insurance is required.

  • Breakdown cover will only be provided if the vehicle was in a roadworthy condition prior to the incident and has a valid MOT / NCT.

  • Only certain vehicles are eligible for breakdown cover. The policy applies to private cars and light commercial vehicles under 3.5 tonnes, and vehicles must generally be less than 15 years old. Restrictions may apply based on vehicle age or type.

  • Recovery will not be provided if the vehicle is immobile due to snow, ice, or ingress of water.

  • Breakdown cover is restricted to Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland, and Great Britain.

Full breakdown exclusions and conditions can be viewed here.

In the event of a breakdown whilst travelling in the Republic of Ireland please telephone 01 804 4328. If you breakdown whilst travelling in the United Kingdom, please call 028 9048 5219.

Emergency Assistance: What to do if you breakdown

A car mechanical or electrical breakdown can be stressful, but knowing what to do can help keep you and your passengers safe while you wait for breakdown assistance can help.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to follow if your vehicle breaks down:

Move to a safe location: If possible, steer your vehicle to the side of the road, a layby, or a nearby parking area. This helps keep you out of the flow of traffic and reduces the risk of further accidents.

Turn on your hazard lights: Alert other drivers by switching on your hazard lights as soon as your car breaks down. This is especially important if you’re stopped on a busy road or in low visibility conditions.

Call for assistance: Contact your breakdown cover provider’s emergency helpline right away. Make sure you have all the details ready, including your breakdown location, the make and model of your vehicle, and a description of the problem.

Provide all the details: When you speak to the operator, give them your exact location, details about your car, and any information about the issue (such as a flat battery, puncture, or mechanical breakdown). This helps them send the right help to you as quickly as possible.

Wait safely for help to arrive: Stay with your vehicle if it’s safe to do so, and keep your phone charged in case the breakdown assistance team needs to contact you. If you’re on a motorway or a busy road, it’s safer to wait behind a barrier away from traffic.

Follow the technician’s instructions: Once help arrives, the technician will assess the situation and try to repair your vehicle at the roadside. If your car can’t be fixed there, it will be towed to the nearest garage or repairer for further attention.

Remember to keep your breakdown cover provider’s emergency number handy, and consider carrying essentials like a phone charger, first-aid kit, and reflective jacket in your car.

With the right breakdown cover and a clear plan, you’ll be prepared for whatever the road throws your way. In the event of a breakdown whilst travelling in the Republic of Ireland please telephone 01 804 4328. If you breakdown whilst travelling in the United Kingdom, please call 028 9048 5219.



No-one wants to be stranded by the roadside with a car breakdown – here’s how breakdown cover can help you when your car is playing up.

Breakdown cover is an additional car insurance benefit if your vehicle breaks down. We will send a recovery operator who will provide up to one hour’s free labour for on the spot repairs and recovery to the nearest garage if the vehicle cannot be repaired in situ. 

What is Breakdown Assistance and Roadside Assistance?

Breakdown cover can help you out if your vehicle breaks down, including common breakdowns such as engine failure, flat batteries, or punctured tyres.

its4women Premier Plus and Telematics Plus car insurance policies give you breakdown cover anywhere in the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland and Great Britain. Breakdown cover services include suitable roadside repairs, towing to a nearby garage, and assistance if you run out of fuel or lose your keys.

Managed by MIS Group our breakdown cover provides ‘peace of mind’ motoring, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Our breakdown wording will outline what is covered, such as roadside repairs, recovery, onward travel, and home start, with some features available as an optional extra for an additional premium. In the event of a breakdown whilst travelling in the Republic of Ireland please telephone 01 804 4328. If you breakdown whilst travelling in the United Kingdom, please call 028 9048 5219.

Coverage are subject to standard membership terms.

Types of Breakdown Assistance Cover

When it comes to protecting yourself against the unexpected, there are several types of breakdown benefits available to suit different needs.

  • Roadside Assistance: If your vehicle breaks down or is involved in an accident away from your home, we will send a recovery operator to assist you. We will provide up to one hour’s free labour at the roadside, however, if your vehicle cannot be repaired on the spot, we will arrange to tow it to the nearest garage, recovery yard or your home, if closer. Note: There is a limit to the number of roadside assistance calls allowed per year as specified in your policy booklet.

  • Home Start Assistance: A dead battery is a bad start to any morning. If your vehicle breaks down, we will send a recovery operator to assist you. Up to one hour’s free labour will be provided, in situ, if on the spot repairs can be made to your vehicle. If your vehicle cannot be repaired in situ, we will arrange to tow it to the nearest garage or to your own garage, if closer.

  • Courtesy car: We will provide a replacement vehicle for up to 3 calendar days (subject to availability), while repairs to your vehicle are being carried out.

  • Punctures: If your vehicle suffers a puncture whilst driving, we will assist with the replacement of your vehicle’s tyre, provided you have a suitable replacement available with the vehicle. If you need to have the flat/punctured tyre repaired or replaced, we will refund you €25 towards the cost of this repair or replacement upon receipt of supporting invoice. Note: If the cost of repair or replacement exceeds €25, you will need to pay the additional amount yourself.

  • Locked / Lost Keys: If the keys to your vehicle are lost, locked in the vehicle or if your keys broken, we will take your vehicle to the nearest secure premises whilst endeavours are made to access the vehicle or obtain alternative keys or by you to obtain alternative keys.

  • Petrol Shortages: In the event your vehicle is immobilised due to a fuel shortage or misfuelling, we will transport your vehicle to the nearest petrol station, charging point or garage to remedy the cause. In addition, to get your vehicle drivable again, we will refund you the cost of 5 litres of fuel upon you supplying a receipt for the cost of the same. Note: If additional fuel or repairs are required beyond this, you may need to pay the extra costs

  • European cover: If you’re planning to drive in Europe, European breakdown cover is a must. This service provides 24-hour emergency assistance, including roadside rescue and repairs, even when you’re abroad. Many policies offer an English-speaking helpline and can arrange towing to the nearest garage or competent repairer, so you’re never left without support.

The right cover can make all the difference if your vehicle breaks down, ensuring you and your passengers are looked after, wherever your journey takes you.

Breakdown Exclusions and Conditions

It’s worth noting that there are some exclusions and terms and conditions of the its4women MIS Breakdown Recovery Service, set out as follows.

  • We are not liable for the cost of repairing the car.

  • We may refuse assistance in circumstances where the driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

  • Breakdown cover is subject to a maximum of three assists per annum. MIS Breakdown will not be responsible where it is asked to provide the service for a fault that was dealt with in the preceding 28 days, excluding punctures.

  • Breakdown cover does not cover theft of the vehicle. Theft is not included under this policy; for theft protection, comprehensive insurance is required.

  • Breakdown cover will only be provided if the vehicle was in a roadworthy condition prior to the incident and has a valid MOT / NCT.

  • Only certain vehicles are eligible for breakdown cover. The policy applies to private cars and light commercial vehicles under 3.5 tonnes, and vehicles must generally be less than 15 years old. Restrictions may apply based on vehicle age or type.

  • Recovery will not be provided if the vehicle is immobile due to snow, ice, or ingress of water.

  • Breakdown cover is restricted to Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland, and Great Britain.

Full breakdown exclusions and conditions can be viewed here.

In the event of a breakdown whilst travelling in the Republic of Ireland please telephone 01 804 4328. If you breakdown whilst travelling in the United Kingdom, please call 028 9048 5219.

Emergency Assistance: What to do if you breakdown

A car mechanical or electrical breakdown can be stressful, but knowing what to do can help keep you and your passengers safe while you wait for breakdown assistance can help.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to follow if your vehicle breaks down:

Move to a safe location: If possible, steer your vehicle to the side of the road, a layby, or a nearby parking area. This helps keep you out of the flow of traffic and reduces the risk of further accidents.

Turn on your hazard lights: Alert other drivers by switching on your hazard lights as soon as your car breaks down. This is especially important if you’re stopped on a busy road or in low visibility conditions.

Call for assistance: Contact your breakdown cover provider’s emergency helpline right away. Make sure you have all the details ready, including your breakdown location, the make and model of your vehicle, and a description of the problem.

Provide all the details: When you speak to the operator, give them your exact location, details about your car, and any information about the issue (such as a flat battery, puncture, or mechanical breakdown). This helps them send the right help to you as quickly as possible.

Wait safely for help to arrive: Stay with your vehicle if it’s safe to do so, and keep your phone charged in case the breakdown assistance team needs to contact you. If you’re on a motorway or a busy road, it’s safer to wait behind a barrier away from traffic.

Follow the technician’s instructions: Once help arrives, the technician will assess the situation and try to repair your vehicle at the roadside. If your car can’t be fixed there, it will be towed to the nearest garage or repairer for further attention.

Remember to keep your breakdown cover provider’s emergency number handy, and consider carrying essentials like a phone charger, first-aid kit, and reflective jacket in your car.

With the right breakdown cover and a clear plan, you’ll be prepared for whatever the road throws your way. In the event of a breakdown whilst travelling in the Republic of Ireland please telephone 01 804 4328. If you breakdown whilst travelling in the United Kingdom, please call 028 9048 5219.