How to stay mobile: Better safe than sorry

Today, cars are prone to breakdowns in a different way than in the past. Whereas it used to be tangible mechanical problems that caused an involuntary forced stop, today it is more likely to be the electronics. What hasn't changed is that, if the worst comes to the worst, a fast breakdown service is the be-all and end-all - and mobility insurance reduces the consequential costs.

Assistance for new cars
Just a few years ago, this was a matter for luxury brands, but today almost all car brands offer widely varying mobility guarantees, often called assistance, for new cars. These cover, for example, the costs of a replacement vehicle, any hotel accommodation, cab rides or onward travel by public transport. Assistance is usually provided around the clock, seven days a week, and usually also in the event of incidents for which you are responsible. However, new car mobility warranties usually only run for a certain period of time - often similar to the warranty period - and only cover a certain amount. Maintenance and repair according to the manufacturer's specifications is important: Assistance is only maintained if the maintenance is carried out by authorized dealerships. This does not mean that the car can only be taken to an authorized dealer.

The hit parade of mishaps
The most common reasons for calling a breakdown service are trivial. The most common reason for calling for help is a flat starter battery. In second place is a flat tire. Locked keys or misfueling are also common. And while it used to be the carburetor that caused trouble, today it is often the electronics. Incidentally, tire punctures are in first place for electric cars - and the starter battery is in second place: electric cars also need the small battery in addition to the large one.

Assistance from independent providers
But what if the car is older and the manufacturer assistance has expired? Even then, there are ways to protect yourself in the event of a breakdown. Mobility guarantees are available from various providers, including the Touring Club Switzerland (TCS) or for member companies of the Swiss Automobile Trade Association (AGVS) via the latter - or from partner companies in the carXpert network. This carXpert Assistance promises round-the-clock mobility in Switzerland and throughout Europe. On average, the waiting time after a call until roadside assistance arrives is just 35 minutes; in eight out of ten cases, the breakdown can be repaired directly on site. In the other two cases, the vehicle is towed away and the assistance service, Mobi24, covers the cost of a replacement vehicle or public transport ticket for a quick onward journey. Depending on the situation, overnight accommodation or follow-up costs are also covered - for just CHF 27 per year.

Automatic emergency call
Good to know: If it's not a breakdown but a more serious accident, a lot has happened in recent years. Since 2018, e-call (emergency call) has been mandatory for all new cars coming onto the market in the EU and Switzerland. The emergency call system is based on the standard European emergency number 112, which is used in Switzerland as well as 117 (police), 118 (fire department) and 144 (rescue service). In the car, E-Call is recognizable as an SOS emergency button. If the button cannot be pressed manually, it automatically activates the emergency call when the airbag is deployed; details of the location are forwarded directly. The button should only be pressed manually if there is a medical problem. In the event of technical breakdowns, the assistance centers should be contacted. By the way: As E-Call is technically outdated today, an update will be available in 2026.

The carXpert network
The name says it all: Behind the name carXpert is a Switzerland-wide network of over 280 independent quality garages and over 40 independent body stores - all experts for your car. In these multi-brand garages, every car feels at home with the qualified specialists because it is serviced and repaired according to the manufacturer's instructions with original equipment parts - guaranteed to keep the warranty! The premium network offers the highest level of expertise and service quality as well as, for example, assistance and used car warranties. The carXpert partners are also ideal contacts for topics such as vacation checks and starter batteries! Many offer a vacation check at reasonable fixed prices. This usually involves checking the starter battery. If a replacement is required carXpert partner a wide range from economy to high-tech premium batteries. carxpert.ch

*The content was created by the Autosprint editorial team in collaboration with carXpert. Cars of all makes are welcome in the carXpert garages and body shops.