The RAC can trace its routes back to 1897. Just over 100 years later this famous motoring organisation was purchased by Lex PLC. In 2002, RAC Motoring services was renamed and re-branded and is now owned by Norwich Union.

In common with other breakdown insurance services, the RAC offer both personal, joint, family and also vehicle based cover. Quotations for the latter can only be obtained via their call centre.

With regard to personal cover, 5 different breakdown products are available. The most basic insurance offered is roadside which includes assistance should you breakdown. If the car cannot be repaired, your vehicle will be towed away to the nearest garage repair centre within a 10 mile radius.

Solution 1 insurance includes the benefits of roadside and also recovery. The benefit of recovery is that the RAC breakdown policyholder can choose where to repatriate the car and its occupants in the event the vehicle cannot be fixed at the roadside.

Interestingly, Solution 2 excludes recovery, instead, you are covered should you breakdown at home in addition to out on the road.

Unsurprisingly, Solution 3 insurance incorporates the benefits of roadside, recovery, and homestart. The only difference between Solution 3 and 4 breakdown insurance is that a hire car is provided for up to 3 days should your car require urgent repairs. Alternatively, overnight accommodation or onward travel expenses to get to your planned destination is offered.

There are a number of benefits which are common to all levels of breakdown cover, these include RAC Accident Care which provides a help line in the event your car is immobilised during a road accident. Repair Referrals is the RAC approved network of garages. This is particularly useful if you vehicle cannot be repaired at the roadside and you need advice regarding suitable garages nearby.