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Welcome to Avis
Car Rental Breakdown Assistance
Reliable roadside help, whenever and wherever you need it.
Everyone who hires a vehicle from Avis receives a basic level of roadside assistance to help in their time of need.
We also offer a supplementary Roadside Assistance Plus service, taking care of mishaps like flat batteries and locked-in keys.
In the unlikely event that you experience any difficulties, our rental car breakdown service will get you back on the road as quickly as possible.
What to Do if Your Car Hire Breaks Down
If your hire car breaks down, don’t panic – we’re here to help.
Stay Safe While You Wait
- Turn on your hazard lights and stay visible.
- Before you do anything else, move to a safe place off the road if possible.
- On motorways, when possible, exit the vehicle from the passenger side and wait behind a barrier or in a safe place.
- Avoid attempting any roadside repairs yourself.
Once you’re in a safe place:
Contact Our Breakdown Helpline Immediately
- In the UK, call the freephone roadside assistance number shown in your rental agreement.
- Outside the UK, please refer to your rental paperwork or ask at the rental desk for the local emergency number.
What Breakdown Cover Is Included With My Rental?
All Avis rentals include a basic level of breakdown cover – with options to upgrade for enhanced peace of mind.
Avis Standard Breakdown Assistance
Included with every rental:
- Help with mechanical issues not caused by the driver
- Free 24/7 roadside assistance in the UK
- Access to local emergency support across Europe, the Middle East and Africa (excluding Denmark and Oman outside Muscat)
Please note: incidents due to driver error may incur charges.
Avis Roadside Assistance Plus
In addition to the standard breakdown assistance included with your rental, our Roadside Assistance Plus service covers any non-mechanical issue you may face – all for just £5 a day.
Roadside Assistance Plus
Available from just £5/day (max 13 days), this optional add-on covers non-mechanical issues like:
- Tyre assistance – fitting a spare or arranging towing. There will be an additional charge for replacement tyres unless you have also purchased a package with zero excess reduction on vehicle and tyre damage.
- Lock-out service – access if keys are locked inside
- Flat battery – jump-starts when needed
- Fuel delivery – If you run out of fuel, we will deliver fuel to your location to get you on your way (fuel cost will apply).
- Lost keys – help if your keys go missing
What if I have an accident?
- Ensure passengers are safe and do not require medical assistance.
- If necessary, immediately contact the police in case of third-party liability and/or the emergency services if anyone is injured.
- If you are able to leave the car, find a safe place to wait away from traffic until assistance arrives.
- Remember not to leave the vehicle without ensuring it is secure.
- Once you are in a safe place, call the Avis breakdown assistance number listed in your rental papers immediately
- Fill in the accident form included in your rental papers.
- Write down the names and addresses of everyone involved and any witnesses; never admit liability.
- Please do not have the car repaired without our prior and formal approval.
What happens if I break down or need help on the road?
In the UK - Avis provides free 24-hour roadside assistance for your hire car anywhere in the UK. Just call the free phone number provided on your rental document.
Outside the UK - Please check with the staff at the rental station to confirm the breakdown or accident assistance available.
What’s Included in Our Standard Cover?
Covered by Standard Breakdown Assistance
- Mechanical failure (not caused by the renter)
- Manufacturing faults
- Non-driver-related battery issues
Not Covered Unless You Upgrade
- Running out of fuel
- Incorrect fuel added
- Lost or damaged keys
- Flat battery due to lights or electrics left on
- Tyre damage from misuse
The small print
- Avis Roadside Assistance Plus costs from £5 per day (to a maximum charge of 13 days). To sign up, speak to your Avis agent when collecting your vehicle.
- Prices quoted are for rentals picked up from "Standard" locations. Rentals from "Premium" locations will be higher. Please check the prices during the booking process.
- The basic level of roadside assistance outlined above applies to rentals collected across Europe, the Middle East and Africa, with the exception of Denmark and Oman (outside of the capital Muscat).
- Avis works with leading motorist assistance firms. You'll receive local a toll-free number when you pick up your car.
Frequently Asked Questions About Avis Breakdown Cover for Hire Cars
Does Avis offer replacement vehicles after a breakdown?
Yes – with Avis Inclusive or Roadside Assistance Plus, we’ll provide a replacement vehicle or help you complete your journey.
Is breakdown cover different with Avis Inclusive?
Yes. Avis Inclusive offers extended breakdown protection, zero excess, and also includes Roadside Assistance Plus.
What’s the difference between Roadside Assistance Plus and Avis Inclusive?
Roadside Assistance Plus is an optional add-on that provides help with non-mechanical issues like flat batteries, lost keys, or running out of fuel. It’s available from just £5 per day and can be added at the rental desk when you collect your car.
Avis Inclusive, on the other hand, is a comprehensive rental package that must be selected at the time of booking. It includes:
- Roadside Assistance Plus as standard
- Zero excess on damage and theft
- Faster pick-up with less paperwork
- No unexpected costs at drop-off
If you’re looking for complete peace of mind and minimal hassle, Avis Inclusive is the all-in-one solution. If you’re happy with standard cover but want extra help for common mishaps, Roadside Assistance Plus is a flexible add-on.
Can I add rental car breakdown cover after booking?
Roadside Assistance Plus can be added at the rental desk. Avis Inclusive must be selected at the time of online booking.
How can I check if I have breakdown cover?
Details will be shown in your booking confirmation and rental agreement. You can also check with our rental desk team.
What if I have an accident, not just a breakdown?
If the vehicle is not driveable after an accident, it will still be recovered. You will be offered a replacement vehicle, depending on the circumstances, including any negligence.
What happens if I break down outside the UK?
Vehicles rented in the UK are not permitted to leave the country. If the vehicle is taken abroad without prior consent, you may be responsible for all costs associated with bringing the vehicle back to the UK. In this case, the availability of a replacement vehicle may not be guaranteed, as this would be a breach of our terms and conditions. If you're renting from another country, each location has its own breakdown process, and the same rules would apply.