USAA roadside assistance is worth it for drivers who are looking for basic coverage at a low price. USAA customers can purchase roadside assistance as a policy add-on for $12 to $20 per year in order to get coverage for things like towing, gas delivery, and flat-tire changes.
USAA roadside assistance members can request service online or call 800-531-8555.
What USAA Roadside Assistance Covers
- Towing to the nearest repair facility
- Locksmith services for lost keys or keys locked in the vehicle
- Gas delivery
- Jump starting a battery
- Changing a flat tire
USAA Roadside Assistance vs. Popular Competitors
Company
|
USAA
|
Geico
|
Progressive
|
Average Cost
|
$12-$20 per year
|
$14 per year
|
$16 per year
|
Towing Limit
|
Anywhere within 50 miles
|
To the nearest qualified repair facility
|
15 miles or the nearest qualified repair shop
|
Winching
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Only applicable if you're stuck on or near a public road
|
Safe distance
|
100 feet
|
Tire Change, Jumpstart, Fuel Delivery
|
Yes
|
Yes
|
Yes
|
Other Key Things to Know About USAA Roadside Assistance
It's worth noting that USAA roadside assistance does not include battery replacement and only offers extraction if your car is stuck on or near a public road. Additionally, drivers will need to pay out of pocket for a new key or for the gas itself in the event of a lockout or refueling service call.
Since USAA roadside assistance is fairly basic compared to the roadside assistance offered by most auto clubs, it might not be worth it for drivers who want robust coverage and extra perks. Plus, if you are not already a USAA member, you'll need to qualify in order to get USAA car insurance with roadside assistance.
USAA Roadside Assistance Reviews
USAA roadside assistance ranks 13th out of 22 companies in WalletHub's analysis of the best roadside assistance providers. Despite its low cost, USAA roadside assistance offers only average coverage and does not allow customers to choose between multiple levels of coverage. Major insurance companies that rank above USAA include Travelers, Nationwide, and Progressive, since they offer more coverage options than USAA.
WalletHub's USAA Car Insurance Review gave USAA 3.3 out of 5 stars, noting its low prices and many discounts. However, USAA's customer service has received many complaints. This dissatisfaction extends to USAA's roadside assistance, according to customer reviews. Several drivers have noted long wait times and difficulty getting in touch with a representative.
How to Decide if USAA Roadside Assistance Is Worth It
Your driving habits and budget are the most important factors when deciding if it's worth purchasing roadside assistance through USAA. If you have a long commute or frequently take road trips far from home, USAA might not provide enough coverage for you. On the other hand, drivers who do not anticipate needing winching or long-distance towing will find USAA to be a budget-friendly choice.
If USAA roadside assistance does not offer enough coverage for your specific needs, it's a good time to compare quotes and see if it's worth switching car insurance providers. Otherwise, you can always maintain your USAA policy and purchase roadside assistance from an auto club like Better World Club or Good Sam. Auto clubs are generally more expensive than USAA but provide more coverage along with added discounts and perks.