Budget Direct Roadside Assistance
Don’t let a breakdown slow you down. Budget Direct Roadside Assistance can help get you back on the road.
It’s a known truth that breakdowns happen sooner or later. Sometimes it may only be as you’re pulling out of the driveway. Other times, you’re in the middle of nowhere. Whether it's a flat tyre or battery, or you have run out of fuel, having roadside assistance can have you back on the road in no time. But what’s included in a roadside assistance membership? Are there any exclusions and what do you do if there is a breakdown?
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How we picked theseWhat does my membership give me access to?
Budget Direct Roadside Assistance offers a range of benefits and support in the event of a breakdown.
- Unlimited call-outs. You can relax knowing you have unlimited call-outs (within their Fair Use Policy) during your membership period.
- Technical phone assistance. We provide phone assistance 24/7 to try to diagnose your vehicle's problem and help get you moving.
- Accident coordination. If you are involved in an accident, we can help arrange the recovery of your vehicle or help you find alternative transport, however you must pay any towing and alternative transport costs associated with an accident, but you can check if your car insurance policy will cover these costs.
Our expert says
"I've had Budget Direct Roadside Assistance for years but never had to use it until earlier this year. I noticed I had a flat tyre and didn't want to drive on it in case it hurt the wheel. I rang them and they sent a technician out in less than an hour on a public holiday who changed the tyre and organised for me to get it to a garage the following week. This is all covered in the insurance. Great experience."
What does the membership cover?
| Benefit | Is it included? | Cover limit |
|---|---|---|
| Minor roadside repairs | Up to $20 | |
| Breakdown towing | Up to 20km within the geographical metropolitan areas from the breakdown location to the nearest accredited service provider or up to 50km round trip from the roadside contractor’s depot anywhere in the geograhic area of Australia outside the greater metro cities. | |
| Flat battery assistance | Covers the cost of a jump start, though replacement of battery isn’t covered. | |
| Lockout or lost key | Up to $125 for assisted entry to the vehicle, a taxi or courier to retrieve a spare key. | |
| Out of fuel | Up to $15 | |
| Tyre change assistance | Covers arrangements to change and replace it with the spare tyre supplied with your vehicle or tow the vehicle to the nearest tyre repairer within the service limits. | |
| Taxi | Provides arrangements for taxi or other transport. All charges will be at your cost. | |
| Hire car | Provides arrangements for a hire car when you are more than 100km from home. All charges will be at your cost. | |
| Accommodation | Provides arrangements for accommodation when you are more than 100km from home. All charges will be at your cost. |
Are there any exclusions?
There are a few exclusions you need to be aware of. Service calls will not be responded to if they are due to:
- Failure to use reasonable care or carry out regular maintenance or inappropriate maintenance or repair.
- Assistance or call-outs for emergency or life-threatening events or situations (for these situations, call emergency services on 000).
- Any mechanical servicing or repair.
- Failure to follow the instructions of the vehicle manufacturer, repairer or insurance provider.
- Inappropriate or incorrect fitting of parts or accessories.
- Sub-standard repairs or parts fitted which are not fit for purpose.
- Accident damage, break-in or attempted break-in of your vehicle.
- Breakdowns that are associated with any attached caravan or trailer or their couplings.
There are also a bunch of other exclusions to be aware of, so be sure to read the terms and conditions before you sign on the dotted line.
Is this cover right for me?
Budget Direct has a number of eligibility requirements to meet. You must own a vehicle that is mechanically sound and otherwise fit to be operated and driven on Australian roads. This is just one example - it's important to read Budget Direct's Terms & Conditions to determine if this product will meet your needs and circumstances.
Am I protected in an accident?
No. Roadside assistance only provides cover for breakdowns. You would still cover any costs and charges for labour or, in the event of an accident, legal liability. For protection against third party property or accidental damage, Budget Direct offers TPPD and comprehensive cover.
What do I do if my car breaks down?
If the bonnet’s up and you’re on the side of the road, make sure that you have your hazard lights on. Remain in your vehicle and try to get as far off the road as is safe.
Call 1800 514 448 for 24/7 support and access to roadside assistance.
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