Europ Assistance

Advantages: None whatsoever
Disadvantages: Terrible service, massively long claim response time, rude, unhelpful

...out a policy underwritten by Europ Assistance this summer to cover our round the world trip. Unfortunately, just after leaving (1 week after) the UK, we had to return as my father was taken into intensive care. 3 weeks after this, we submitted our claim form, supported by exhaustive documentation. 4 months later, and we are no further on - stupid information requests (repeating earlier requests), claim handled by multiple processors, rude staff on ...
...and avoidance tactics, we got a solicitor involved. You would think that would have greased the bearings a little. No. They put the solicitor on indefinite hold, hang up on him etc. etc. We're giving it one more week before taking actual legal action or going to the ombudsman. Steer well clear. Would give 0 stars if possible. ... Read review

Advantages: very comprehensive price
Disadvantages: internet purchase only

I have used EuropAssist for several years now and am a loyal customer mainly due to thier low price. I have used the services of the breakdown cover on several occasions, once in another European country. They were very helpful and understanding. When i have used their cover here in the UK, they have always been professional and prompt in dealing with my car breakdown problems. They send out high quality local mechanics who seem to be able to fix ... Read review

Advantages: English speaking operators, professional, courteous
Disadvantages: None

...AA Five Star Europe Roadside Assistance cover is the best thing since sliced bread…probably. On a recent short (5 day) trip to France, everything had been progressing very smoothly until we were just south of Paris. The car gave a bit of a lurch, there was a sudden loss of power and red lights careered over the dashboard. I called the AA Europe helpline number and got an English speaking operator (I can speak French but, when you are in difficulty there is nothing more comforting than someone speaking your mother tongue). He explained that while I was on the Autoroute, the AA could not come to get me and that I should walk to the nearest emergency phone and call for assistance. A ‘depannage’ lorry would then tow me off the Autoroute after which the AA would take over (but the depannage costs would be picked up by the AA so... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: Still the best of the breakdown services
Disadvantages: Maybe need some staff training!!!

...down in the wilds of Scotland in the middle of blizzards, when even an Eskimo would be loathe to leave the warmth of his igloo, and the intrepid AA man has still managed to come to my rescue. On one occasion I deposited a rear axle of my BMW 525 in the middle of a French motorway near Cannes. (at about 110mph I might add; NOT a pleasant experience) This could have proved a real holiday killer in terms of cost and inconvenience, only for the fact I was covered under the AA’s “Europe Assistance” programme. I think they called it “5 Star Cover” in those days. Not only was I towed to the nearest BMW main agent, but supplied with a replacement car until my own was repaired, and all at no extra cost. ~ ~ So what is this run in I had with them over Christmas, as I mentioned in my introduction. As regular readers... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: You don't have to be driving the car to get it repaired by them - any passenger can be a member.
Disadvantages:

...When I got my first car, I was wondering which organisation to become a member of. Most of my friends recommended the AA, as it is inexpensive, reliable, and even provides service in continental Europe. Whenever I've phoned for assistance, I've always been "seen to" in a relatively short amount of time. The problem's usually been a minor one, but they've located it and fixed it with the minimum of fuss. If there is a lone female or children on board, then they will get priority attention. The service they provide is an invaluable one, and it costs little. If a passenger in the vehicle is a member of the AA, then the AA will fix the car. (There was even a case of a 4 year old being a member, so that any friends or babysitters driving him home, would be covered when they were caring for him!) All in all, I would strongly... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful