How soon can I use AA/RAC services after joining?

burninginstructer

Hi Folks! I've got a VW Caddy that wont start in my driveway... I think it needs diagnostics run on it. I havent got round to getting breakdown cover yet so maybe now is the time!!! The thing is, I can wait a day or 2 before I would like the van looked at so could I join using the much reduced online subscription (~£68 per annum), rather than the on-the-spot emergency sign-up fee of ~£167. Basically, how long after signing up to these services are you allowed to used them? Thanks in advance!

skintbuthappy81

From my past experience I joined RAC (due to problem with my car) and phoned them to come out the following day, my cover started as soon as I paid for it.

haggisAThome

the only thing that will take 24 hours to come into effect is recovery , the rest you can use as soon as you have payed

cyclonebri1

And from what peeeps have told me, the rac and aa are more than willing to take money off you even if you have an immediate problem,,ie join at the roadside;)

atwitsend_2

I used to work for one of the companies that has mentioned, I will say this...if its a known fault at the time of taking out the cover then they will not cover it under a normal policy.
However, unless you mention that it happened before you took the cover out (i.e to the call centre staff/technician) then how will they know ? obviously I would personally make sure the car, or in this case, van look like it has been used recently.
Oh and just remember to get the right cover, for instance, homestart etc, and have a garage address ready of where you want it taken to if they cant do anything roadside.

Hope you get it sorted

chigley

Definately join on the spot almost. My missus was a member, and I broke down (actually left lights on on car and got a flat battery ) so rang the AA and tried to blag a free callout - which they would not have! But if I paid on the spot over the phone, they would come straight out to me - which they did. What a nice man etc......