Lockouts, Jump Starts, Flat Tires
For minor situations, your roadside coverage typically handles lockouts, jump starts, flat tire changes, and out-of-fuel calls.
The key rule: don't file a property claim
For lockouts, dead batteries, flat tires, and out-of-fuel situations, use your roadside assistance benefit, not a property claim. Roadside calls don't go on your claims record. Filing a claim for a minor incident is unnecessary and can affect your renewal rate.
Lockouts
Roadside services dispatch a locksmith or technician to open your door. Coverage includes labor costs, but excludes lock damage or key replacement. For electronic key fob vehicles, the technician unlocks the door only; you'll need a functioning key to operate the car. Lost fobs may require towing to a dealer.
If you're in an unsafe location at night, call 911 first and wait in a safe place.
Dead battery: jump or replace
Most policies cover jump starts at no charge. If the battery won't revive, diagnostics and replacement may be offered on-site. Battery parts aren't covered; you pay for the component while labor costs are included or minimal.
Flat tire
The technician installs your spare tire roadside. Without a usable spare, roadside arranges towing to the nearest shop. Towing is covered to your policy limit; tire replacement at the shop is not.
Example
A driver's flat tire was serviced in 35 minutes with spare installation covered, but tire replacement costs were customer-paid.
Out of fuel
Roadside delivers 1-3 gallons to reach the nearest station. Whether fuel delivery is free depends on your carrier, confirm before accepting service.
Mechanical breakdowns
Non-roadside-repairable issues (transmission, engine, electrical) result in towing to a repair shop. Repair work requires separate mechanical breakdown coverage; roadside only provides transportation.
How to call efficiently
Save your carrier's roadside number beforehand. Provide your policy number and issue description, confirming coverage before authorizing service. Mobile apps offered by most carriers simplify requests and dispatch tracking.
How many times can you use it?
Most carrier roadside plans allow 3–5 service calls per policy period. Excessive use can trigger a policy non-renewal in rare cases. For frequent roadside users, a dedicated AAA membership may be more cost-effective.