Feeling flat this winter? You are not alone

Media release August 2015

Feeling flat this winter? You are not alone

In another sign of the cold weather being experienced around the country, insurer AMI says that around four in every ten call outs for its breakdown services are for the simple reason of a flat battery.

AMI’s breakdown service provider First Assistance revealed that 42% of the breakdown services’ call outs they receive are related to flat batteries, 11% are for lost or locked keys, 8% are for flat tyres and 6% are for emergency fuel.

“Battery issues in particular are more common during winter due to colder air temperatures. Modern cars can be difficult as batteries and controllers in these types of vehicles are a ‘technical masterpiece’ and many people aren’t quite sure what to do when the battery is flat,” said Charlie Roberson, First Assistance National Operations Manager.

“Also, many/most vehicles now have automatic transmissions, meaning the old push start method is not the option it used to be.”

AMI wanted to help customers keep their cars on the road this winter and be safe, so they are now offering free standard breakdown service for a year for new and existing customers on renewal.

“It’s something extra we can help people with so they will have peace of mind when they really need it,” said Merran Anderson, General Manager Marketing and Communications AMI Insurance.

AMI has recently provided tips and information for drivers on how to prepare themselves for bad weather and be safe on the roads through its partnership with Neighbourly.co.nz.

“While knowing what to do to prepare helps, being protected should a breakdown occur is even more important. That is why AMI has gone one step further by offering free standard breakdown service on its Comprehensive vehicle insurance to its customers,” Merran said Plus, AMI’s standard breakdown service covers both the car and anyone driving the car.

“As a parent this is something that I find especially important. If my daughter borrows my car and ever gets stuck when I’m not available, I know she will be ok by calling the 0800 number 24/7 for help,” Merran said.

AMI’s free standard breakdown service is available now and the offer ends 25 June 2016. The promotion applies to both new and existing customers (on renewal) with Comprehensive car insurance. The standard breakdown service is available 24/7 and covers three call outs per year (and it doesn't matter who is driving the car) up to a maximum of $60 per call out. However, customers have the option to upgrade to the Premier cover.

To find out more, please visit: http://www.ami.co.nz/en/products/car-insurance/breakdown-service/breakdownservice/

ENDS

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