I've been driving since the late 70s, and have always paid for breakdown cover from one of the major associations, though I haven't called them out in decades. Currently it's £400/year plus.
Today I needed them. I rang, eventually got through, terrible line, had to repeat everything several times. She went off to speak to a supervisor and 30 seconds later I'm cut off. Try again. Better line. I explained that I only needed taking home 2 miles away, as I'd destroyed my tyre turning my car round in a tight space, clipping the kerb. They wanted nearly £200 just to take me home! I was stressed, upset and now furious. But if I'd caused the problem, it was £200.
Happy conclusion. The tyre people local to home couldn't come out, but put me in touch with a mobile tyre fitters, who came out very quickly, replaced the tyre and charged me £90 all in.
I'd always felt secure knowing that motoring organisation had my back. Now I'm not sure they did.
Can anyone recommend their motoring association? I only really need Roadside Assistance and 'National Recovery' (they take you & car home).
