What is roadside assistance and why it matters?

If your car suddenly won’t start, or you’re stuck with a flat tyre on the side of the motorway, roadside assistance can turn a stressful ordeal into a manageable situation. But what is it exactly – and is it really worth it?

Research shows around 8 million Australians don’t know how to change a tyre. If you’re caught without the know-how, the tools or the confidence to safely change a tyre you’re out of luck. Thankfully, there are experienced professionals who can step in and get you moving again.

In this guide we explain how it works, highlighting the pros and cons so you can make an informed decision about whether to purchase this product.

Key takeaway:

Here's a quick snapshot to help you weigh the pros and cons:

Why it’s worth considering:

1. 24/7 support when your car breaks down
2. Choice of cover options to suit your budget, driving and towing needs
3. Driver cover available with higher roadside options, offering you assistance regardless of what vehicle you drive. Bonus member perks and discounts with RACQ

Things to keep in mind:

1. Annual fee for your chosen level of cover
2. Potential wait times in remote areas
3. Not all covers are equal – Lower-tier or car manufacturer roadside assistance can be limited to basic services with towing often capped. Always check what’s included.

What is roadside assistance?

It is dedicated help that comes to you when your vehicle breaks down or experiences a mechanical or electrical issue. When you have a dead battery, a flat tyre, an empty fuel tank or minor mechanical failures, qualified professionals can help you get back on the road faster. It provides on-the-spot support and towing services when something goes wrong whether you're at home or far from your destination.

What does roadside assistance include?

The support you receive will depend on the level of cover you choose. Many providers offer tiered options with different entitlements. Many levels of cover include assistance with the following, however, check your specific provider and cover to see if all of these options are included or not.

Battery Jump Start

• If your car won’t start due to a flat battery, a patrol officer can jump-start it for you.

Flat tyre change

• Assistance with replacing a flat tyre using your spare.

Emergency fuel delivery

• If you run out of fuel, a patrol officer can deliver enough to get you to the nearest station.

Lockout assistance

• Help unlocking your vehicle if you’ve accidentally locked your keys inside the car. 

Towing services

• If your vehicle can’t be fixed on the spot, it can be towed to a nearby mechanic.

Support for other vehicle types:

• Motorbikes
• Mobility scooters
• E-scooters and e-bikes
• Caravans and trailers

Electric Vehicle (EV) support

• If your EV runs out of charge, it can be towed to the nearest accessible charging station (where available). Technicians trained in high-voltage systems will handle this safely.

Roadside assistance can be a lifesaver during a breakdown for everybody, whether you are a young driver, business fleet owner, an everyday commuter with an old car or long-distance driver. Knowing what to do in those moments can make a big difference. You can check out our guide on what to do when your car breaks down for practical tips.

Why do you need roadside assistance? Explaining some benefits

No one plans for a breakdown, but when it does happen, it's often at the most inconvenient time. It ensures you’re not left to sort it out alone. Here’s why it’s worth considering:

1. It provides 24/7 assistance

You never know when you may need help. Many breakdowns don’t happen mid-commute. In fact, flat batteries are one of the most common issues – and they often happen in your own driveway. Knowing a professional can assist you at any time can provide peace of mind.

2. It saves time and stress

Instead of scrambling to find a tow truck or nearby mechanic, you can call one number or request help online. It’s a calm voice and clear plan when you need it most.

3. It often includes towing services

If your vehicle can't be fixed on the spot, towing is often included which can save you from costly out-of-pocket expenses. Depending on your provider, towing may be covered up to a certain distance or even to your preferred mechanic.

4. It can cover accommodation and transport

If your vehicle needs to be towed and you're far from home, some roadside assistance packages go beyond just vehicle recovery. Depending on your level of cover, providers may organise a taxi to take you to a safe location. In cases where repairs take longer, some may also contribute towards accommodation costs or provide a rental car.

5. It can cover you across multiple vehicles

Some levels of roadside assistance protect you as the driver of eligible vehicles, so you’re covered whether you’re in your own car or a friend’s vehicle. This flexibility is ideal for households with multiple vehicles or individuals who frequently drive different cars.

6. It can be cost-effective

Paying for a tow truck or emergency mechanic call-out on your own can quickly add up. With roadside you can be covered for multiple call-outs a year under one fee.

7. It can include added benefits and discounts

Purchasing it through a motoring club like RACQ can unlock added member benefits and discounts on shopping, theme park tickets, movie tickets, fuel, travel deals and more~~.

Real life situations where roadside assistance can help

When you think of roadside assistance, a yellow tow truck or a jump-start might be the first things that come to mind. But the need for help can show up in all sorts of everyday moments – not just dramatic breakdowns. And when an everyday drive or a family road trip turns into a nightmare, that’s when it shows its real value!

Here are a few all-too-common scenarios where roadside assistance can step in:

1. You’re heading to work and discover your car won’t start – the battery died overnight
2. A flat tyre leaves you stranded on a busy road, and you don’t have a usable spare
3. The fuel light’s been on too long, and now you’re stuck far from the nearest petrol station
4. You’ve locked your keys in the car and need help getting back in
5. A strange noise or warning light forces you to pull over unexpectedly
6. Your motorbike breaks down in the middle of a weekend ride through the hinterland
7. You stop to charge your EV, but the charging station’s out of order and you don’t have enough battery to reach the next one

It isn’t just for emergencies – it's support for the inconvenient, unpredictable moments that can happen to any driver and any vehicle.

Three ways you can buy it 

There are several ways to get roadside assistance, depending on your needs and preferences. Here are the three most common option: 

1. Motoring clubs 

Motoring clubs specialise in providing roadside assistance at both state and national levels, often with a strong focus on member support and community. These clubs often offer added discounts and member benefits to other services. For example, here at RACQ, we are a Queensland-based motoring club helping thousands of drivers get back on the road quickly and safely. 

2. Bundled with car insurance 

Many insurance providers offer this service as an optional add-on to your car insurance policy. This can be a convenient way to manage both your coverage and emergency support in one place. Just be sure to review what’s included and confirm it aligns with your driving habits and needs. 

3. Included with a new car purchase 

Some manufacturers include complimentary roadside assistance when you buy a new vehicle, typically as part of the warranty package. 

While it’s a valuable bonus, manufacturer roadside service may be limited in scope. These often cover essential services but may exclude extras like extended towing, accommodation, rental cars or coverage for additional vehicles. 

Tip: Always check what’s included in your manufacturer’s roadside offer and make sure it suits your driving needs. 

Certain manufacturers, such as Ford and Mitsubishi, provide entry-level service. If you find this coverage too limited, you can easily upgrade to a more comprehensive option through RACQ’s Associate Motoring Program. 

How to match your driving needs to the right cover 

You might be wondering, ‘which roadside assistance option is right for me?’. When it comes to choosing cover, think about how, when, and where you drive. 

Use the table below to match your driving habits with the features that matter most, from towing limits and travel entitlements to coverage for caravans, trailers and business fleets. 

RACQ offers a range of different options from budget-friendly RACQ Everyday Lite to premium cover like RACQ Ultimate Care. You can compare roadside assistance options to find the cover that works best for you.

FAQs

Is roadside assistance worth it for new cars?

Yes, it can be valuable even for new cars. While new vehicles are less likely to break down, unexpected issues like flat tyres, battery failures or lockouts can still happen. Many new car warranties include basic roadside support, but this coverage is often limited in scope and duration. Upgrading to a more comprehensive option ensures you're covered for a wider range of scenarios, especially if you travel frequently or live in a remote area. 

Can I use roadside assistance if I am driving in someone else’s car? 

It depends on the type of cover you choose. RACQ provides some options that include member cover, which protects you no matter what eligible vehicle you’re driving. Lower tier options are vehicle-specific, meaning they only apply to the nominated car. If you often drive different cars, one of our premium levels of cover is a great option to consider.  

How much does it cost?

It is paid as a yearly fee, and the cost depends on the level of cover you choose. RACQ offers a range of options starting from around $89 /year*, with options that cater for different towing distances and driving needs, including for caravans and trailers, 24/7 Australia wide.   

When comparing prices, it’s important to look beyond the yearly fee and consider what you'd pay for a single emergency callout without cover. A one-off towing service can quickly become costly, especially if you're in a remote location or need to be transported long distances. Similarly, calling a locksmith to retrieve keys locked in your car can also add up. For most cases, having roadside cover becomes cost-effective with one single callout per year.   

When roadside assistance makes sense

Whether you’re a daily commuter, long-distance traveller, or someone who drives only now and then, this service provides assurance that help is always close by. 

Unexpected issues are surprisingly common. Even a new or well-maintained car can run into trouble. The right roadside cover means you won’t be left stranded or stressed.  

If you are ready to get started, compare our levels of cover to find the best fit, or buy roadside assistance online in just a few clicks.