Accidents on the road can be incredibly stressful. Whether it’s a flat tire, running out of gas, or a dead car battery, we’ve all been in situations where we needed help. But did you know that the credit card in your pocket could offer roadside assistance?
In addition to roadside assistance perks, it’s essential to consider factors like annual fees, rewards, and interest rates when choosing a credit card. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled a list of the best credit cards with roadside assistance for 2024. Let’s take a closer look!
4 Credit Cards with Roadside Assistance to Have in 2024
| Card Name | Annual Fees | Bonus Points/Miles | Roadside Assistance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chase Sapphire Reserve | $550 | 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first three months | Towing, gas delivery, tire change, lockout, jump-start, standard winching |
| Capital One Savor Rewards | $95 | $300 after spending $3,000 in the first three months | Towing and winching, gas delivery, tire change, jump-start, lockout service |
| U.S. Bank Visa Platinum Card | $0 | N/A | Towing, gas delivery, tire change, lockout, jump-start, winching |
| Chase Freedom Unlimited | $0 | N/A | Towing, tire changing, jump-starting, lockout service, fuel delivery, winching |
Best for Luxury Travel: Chase Sapphire Reserve
The Chase Sapphire Reserve card offers some of the best roadside assistance benefits available. It covers towing, lockout services, jump-starts, standard winching, and fuel delivery of up to two gallons. You can use this benefit up to four times per year, with a maximum coverage of $50 per incident.
But that’s not all – this card is perfect for luxury travelers. With a $300 annual statement credit for travel purchases, airport lounge access, and various travel and purchase protections, it offers a host of benefits. Plus, you earn three points per dollar on dining and travel, and one point per dollar on all other purchases.
Although the card has a steep $550 annual fee, the bonus points, annual travel credit, and other benefits more than make up for it if you’re a frequent traveler.
Best for Cash Back: Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card
The Capital One Savor Rewards card offers roadside assistance through Mastercard. You’ll pay a flat fee per use, and any additional charges are the responsibility of the cardholder. Roadside assistance services include towing and winching, jump-starts, fuel delivery, tire changes, and lockout service.
In addition to roadside assistance, this card provides a $300 cash bonus after spending $3,000 in the first three months. You’ll earn 4% cash back on dining, entertainment, and select streaming services, 3% cash back at grocery stores, and 1% cash back on all other purchases. There are also special cash back rates for Uber, Uber Eats, hotels, and rentals booked through Capital One Travel.
With a $95 annual fee, the Capital One Savor Rewards card offers great value for those looking to earn cash back on their purchases.
Best for No Annual Fee: Chase Freedom Unlimited
The Chase Freedom Unlimited card provides roadside assistance for a flat fee per service call. The services include towing, tire changing, jump-starting, lockout service, fuel delivery, and winching. However, certain vehicle types and off-road situations may not be covered.
In terms of cash back rewards, you’ll earn 3% cash back on restaurants and dining, 3% cash back at drugstores, and 1.5% cash back on all other purchases. There is no limit to the amount of cash back you can earn, and the card has no annual fee.
The Chase Freedom Unlimited card also offers additional benefits such as travel and purchase protections, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a no-fee card with roadside assistance.
Best for Long Intro APR Period: U.S. Bank Visa Platinum Card
The U.S. Bank Visa Platinum Card provides roadside assistance through Visa. For a flat fee of $69.95, you’ll receive towing, tire changing, jump-starting, lockout service, fuel delivery, or standard winching. Additional services may incur additional charges.
While this card doesn’t offer cash back or travel rewards, it stands out with its lengthy 0% introductory APR period. This feature makes it an ideal choice for balance transfers and large purchases with an extended interest-free period.
Furthermore, the U.S. Bank Visa Platinum Card includes cell phone insurance, covering up to $600 per incident if your phone is stolen or damaged. This card is a valuable tool for getting out of credit card debt and comes with no annual fee.
Roadside Assistance with the Chase Sapphire Reserve
The Chase Sapphire Reserve is one of the few cards from Chase that offers roadside assistance without a flat rate charge. As a cardholder, you’re entitled to up to $50 towards roadside services four times per year. Covered services include towing, lockouts, jump-starts, tire changes, and gas deliveries.
Roadside Dispatch is Provided by All Visa Credit Cards
All Visa credit cards offer roadside dispatch services, regardless of the issuer. If you find yourself stranded on the side of the road, you can call a designated phone number to access services like towing, tire changing, jump-starts, lockout service, and fuel delivery. While most cards require a flat fee per service call, additional fees may apply for certain services.
Roadside Benefits Provided by Other Credit Cards
Some American Express and Citi cards used to offer roadside assistance, but these features have been discontinued. However, many Mastercard branded cards, as well as select cards from Capital One and Chase, still provide roadside assistance. It’s best to consult your credit card’s benefits guide or contact your card issuer to understand the specific roadside assistance services available to you.
Credit Card Roadside Assistance vs. AAA
AAA is an automobile club that offers services similar to credit card roadside assistance. AAA members can enjoy various coverage levels, including significant reimbursements for home or locksmith fees, extended towing distances, and larger fuel deliveries. While AAA provides comprehensive coverage, credit card roadside assistance can be a more convenient and cost-effective option as it often comes with no additional annual fees.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do Amex cards have roadside assistance?
No, American Express cards no longer include roadside assistance benefits.
What is a AAA alternative?
Alternatives to AAA include memberships with other motor clubs, roadside assistance coverage from insurance companies, or travel insurance plans that offer roadside dispatch services.
Can I buy roadside assistance separately?
Yes, it is possible to purchase roadside assistance separately. However, if your credit card already offers this service, it’s worth checking the associated fees and coverage before seeking additional assistance.
Remember, having access to roadside assistance is invaluable in unexpected situations, so choose a credit card that fits your needs and offers this essential benefit.
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