Do New Cars Come With Roadside Assistance?
New cars often come with roadside assistance, but the specifics vary significantly. Understanding what’s included, how long it lasts, and what limitations exist can save you headaches down the road. This article will explore everything you need to know about roadside assistance programs offered by manufacturers on new vehicles.
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Roadside assistance programs are a valuable perk often bundled with the purchase of a new car. These programs provide a safety net, offering services like towing, jump-starts, flat tire changes, fuel delivery, and lockout assistance. They aim to give new car owners peace of mind, knowing help is available if they encounter unexpected trouble on the road. But how exactly do these programs work, and what should you expect?
What’s Typically Included in New Car Roadside Assistance?
Most manufacturer-provided roadside assistance programs cover the basics. This typically includes:
- Towing: Transporting your vehicle to a nearby repair facility or dealership, often within a specific mileage limit.
- Jump-Starts: Getting your car started again if the battery dies.
- Flat Tire Changes: Replacing a flat tire with your spare.
- Fuel Delivery: Bringing you enough fuel to reach the nearest gas station.
- Lockout Service: Helping you regain access to your locked vehicle.
How Long Does Roadside Assistance Last?
The duration of coverage varies by manufacturer. Some programs match the length of the new car warranty, which could be three years/36,000 miles, five years/60,000 miles, or even longer. Others offer roadside assistance for a shorter period, such as one or two years. It’s crucial to understand the specific terms of your program.
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Limitations of Roadside Assistance Programs
While roadside assistance can be a lifesaver, it’s important to be aware of the limitations. Common restrictions include:
- Mileage Limits: Towing services often have a mileage cap, meaning you might have to pay for any distance beyond that limit.
- Service Area: Coverage might be limited to a specific geographical area, such as within the continental United States.
- Exclusions: Certain situations might be excluded from coverage, such as accidents or breakdowns caused by modifications to your vehicle.
- Usage Limits: Some programs limit the number of service calls you can make within a given period.
Roadside Assistance Services: Towing, Jumpstart, Tire Change, Fuel Delivery, Lockout Service
Do All New Cars Come with Roadside Assistance?
While it is common, not all new cars automatically come with roadside assistance. Some manufacturers might offer it as an optional add-on, while others might not provide it at all. Be sure to check with the dealership to confirm whether roadside assistance is included with your new car purchase.
What if My New Car Doesn’t Have Roadside Assistance?
If your new car doesn’t come with roadside assistance, you can purchase a separate plan from providers like AAA. These independent plans often offer more comprehensive coverage and flexibility than manufacturer programs. It’s also worth comparing prices and benefits before making a decision.
Comparing Roadside Assistance Plans: Coverage, Cost, Benefits
Is Roadside Assistance Worth It?
Even if it costs extra, roadside assistance can provide invaluable peace of mind, especially for new car owners. Knowing you have a safety net in case of unexpected car trouble can significantly reduce stress and hassle.
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Conclusion
Roadside assistance is a valuable benefit that often comes with new cars. However, the specific terms and coverage vary significantly between manufacturers. Be sure to understand what’s included, how long it lasts, and what limitations exist to avoid any surprises down the road. Even if your new car doesn’t include roadside assistance, considering an independent plan can provide peace of mind and protection against unexpected vehicle troubles. So, do new cars come with roadside assistance? The answer is often yes, but it’s always best to confirm and understand the details before you drive off the lot.
FAQs
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What if I’m outside the coverage area of my roadside assistance program? You might still be able to receive assistance, but you will likely incur additional charges.
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Can I transfer my roadside assistance coverage to another person? Generally, roadside assistance is tied to the vehicle, not the owner. So if you sell the car, the coverage typically transfers to the new owner.
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What if my car needs repairs beyond a simple fix covered by roadside assistance? Roadside assistance will typically tow your car to a nearby repair facility, but you will be responsible for the cost of repairs.
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Can I use my roadside assistance for non-mechanical issues, like a flat tire due to a pothole? Yes, most roadside assistance programs cover flat tires regardless of the cause.
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How do I contact my roadside assistance provider in case of an emergency? The contact information is usually found in your owner’s manual or on a sticker in your glove compartment.
Contacting Roadside Assistance: Phone, App, Website
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