Breakdown Recovery in Tyne and Wear

A breakdown rarely happens at a convenient moment or place. The practical questions are the same every time: are you safe, can the vehicle be moved, and where is it going?

At Banks of the Tyne in Hebburn we offer breakdown recovery across Tyne and Wear. This page sets out what to do while you wait, what we will ask you, and what affects how the recovery is carried out.

What to do straight away

If you can, get the vehicle off the carriageway and onto the hard shoulder, a layby or a side street. Switch on your hazard lights. If you are on a motorway or fast road, leave the vehicle by the left-hand door, move well away from the traffic and wait behind the barrier where you can.

If it feels dangerous, call the emergency services.

• Hazard lights on and a warning triangle only where it is safe to place one
• Everyone out and away from traffic, passengers first
• Note your location using road names, signs or a postcode
• Do not drive on if there is a brake, steering or overheating warning

What we need to know when you call

A clear description makes the recovery quicker and safer for everyone. We will want to know where you are, the make, model and registration, and what happened. Did it stop suddenly, make a noise, show a warning light or lose power?

Tell us if the vehicle is in gear, whether the wheels turn, whether the steering is locked, and if it is a front, rear or all-wheel drive. These details decide how the vehicle is loaded. Also say if it is parked somewhere tight or on a slope.

How the recovery is carried out

Where the wheels turn and the steering works, loading is straightforward. Where the vehicle will not roll, has a locked gearbox, flat tyres or accident damage, it needs more care and sometimes extra equipment, and we would rather know in advance.

Where the vehicle goes is up to you: our Hebburn unit, your home, or another garage. If it comes to us, we can then inspect the fault, explain what we find and talk through your options. Our cover is Tyne and Wear, so for journeys beyond that ask us first.

What affects the price and arrangements

Recovery is priced on things like distance, the type and condition of the vehicle, the location and how awkward the loading is. We confirm the arrangements with you before we set out, so nothing about the job should come as a surprise.

If your vehicle is insured or covered by a breakdown policy, check what that policy provides before you call anyone, as the terms vary. We can only speak for the recovery we carry out.

• Distance to the destination
• Whether the vehicle runs, rolls and steers
• Awkward locations or restricted access
• Vehicle size and weight