Back to Learn
Do You Need Roadside Assistance For Your Leased Car?
Published 7/28/25
Estimated read time: 5–7 minutes
TL;DR: Most leased cars come with some form of roadside assistance, but not all. If your lease is ending or your coverage is limited, extra roadside protection can save you stress, money, and potentially even your lease agreement.
TL;DR: Most leased cars come with some form of roadside assistance, but not all. If your lease is ending or your coverage is limited, extra roadside protection can save you stress, money, and potentially even your lease agreement.
Let’s get real: s*** happens on the road.
Flat tires, dead batteries, locking your keys in the car at the world’s worst moment—it happens. If you lease a car, the last thing you want is to foot a surprise bill because your roadside assistance fell short (or didn’t exist in the first place).
So, do you need roadside assistance for a leased car? Technically, no. But practically? Almost definitely yes, especially if you're nearing the end of your lease or considering a buyout.
What Roadside Assistance Usually Covers
Roadside assistance isn’t magic, but it’s close. Most programs include:
- Towing (typically up to a certain number of miles)
- Battery jump-starts
- Flat tire help
- Lockout services
- Fuel delivery
Think of it like having a pit crew that follows you around invisibly until you need them.
Check Before You Pay: What Your Lease Already Includes
Before you rush to sign up for extra coverage, check your lease. Many manufacturers include roadside assistance as part of their leasing programs. This is especially true during the warranty period (usually 3 years or 36,000 miles).
Here’s how to find out what you’ve got:
- Read your lease agreement. Yes, the fine print.
- Look for info on warranties and emergency services.
- Call your leasing company or manufacturer if you’re unsure.
Pro Tip: If your manufacturer coverage is expiring, now’s a great time to consider your next move—whether that’s buying out your lease or prepping for a return.
When to Consider Extra Roadside Coverage
Even if your car came with basic roadside help, that coverage might have limitations—especially after your warranty ends or if your driving habits are a little more...adventurous.
Here are some signs you might want to add protection:
1. Your Car Is Aging Out
If your lease is approaching the 3-year mark, or your mileage is creeping past 36,000, you’re likely past the warranty period. That means any included roadside coverage may also be ending.
2. You Drive a Lot
If you're clocking more than 15,000 miles per year, traveling through remote areas, or commuting at odd hours, you’re at higher risk for unexpected breakdowns—when a helping hand could cost you.
3. You’re Planning a Lease Buyout
Thinking about buying out your lease? You’re committing to the car long-term, which means roadside assistance suddenly becomes more than just a “nice to have.” It’s peace of mind.
The Cost Breakdown: Coverage vs. Crisis
Here’s what you might pay out of pocket without roadside assistance:
| Emergency Service | Typical Cost (Without Coverage) |
| Towing (5–10 miles) | $75 – $125 |
| Battery Jump-Start | $50 – $120 |
| Lockout Service | $60 – $100 |
| Flat Tire Change | $50 – $120 |
| Fuel Delivery | $50 – $80 |
Meanwhile, most supplemental roadside plans cost around $60–$150 per year. Just one emergency call could make the plan worth it.
How Roadside Assistance Supports Your Lease (and Buyout)
Roadside coverage doesn’t just help during a breakdown, it also helps protect your lease agreement. Here’s how:
- Avoiding excessive wear and tear: Prompt service helps you stay on top of repairs.
- Using certified repairs: Keeps your car in good standing for lease-end evaluations.
- Documenting service: Many plans include digital records you can use to show the car’s been properly maintained.
If you're looking to buy out your lease, these things can matter—especially if you want to keep the car in great shape for years to come.
Lease End Makes It Easy
At Lease End, we know a lease buyout isn’t just about paperwork; it’s about confidence. That’s why we help you manage financing, title transfer, and even extended coverage options, including roadside assistance.
Already thinking about buying out your lease? Don’t just roll the dice on what might happen if you break down. We’ll help you secure competitive rates, navigate your lease terms, and set you up with tools to keep your car (and sanity) in good shape.
Final Thoughts: So, Do You Need Roadside Assistance?
If your car is still under warranty and you’re not driving much, maybe not. But if your lease is ending, your warranty is expiring, or you’re planning to buy out your lease and keep the car long-term, extra roadside assistance is a smart move.
Think of it like this: Would you rather pay $100 now, or $500 later because you locked your keys in the car 100 miles from anywhere?
Ready to buy out your lease and drive with peace of mind?
Get started in the form below. We’ll help you estimate your buyout costs, secure financing, and manage every step—roadside assistance included.
About the author
Adam Broud
Adam Broud is a writer and comedian based out of Salt Lake City, Utah. As a professional stand-up comedian with an MBA, his writing uniquely blends the worlds of business and comedy. Adam's writing for ads and comedy has appeared in places such as Buzzfeed, Vanity Fair, your television, and his mom's box of keepsakes. Feel free to review his writing from any of those places, but just know it's kinda weird if you choose his mom's house.
Lease End's mission is to empower auto lease owners with the technology to easily exit their lease. If you'd like to learn more about the lease-end options available to you, please don't hesitate to contact us. Our expert advisors are always prepared to answer your questions and are committed to finding the right plan for your individual needs.
©2025 Lease End
©2025 Lease End
Give Us a Call:
(844) 902-2842