Most motorists do not think about roadside assistance until they need it. Fortunately, they may be eligible for free roadside assistance if they have certain credit cards.  Credit card roadside assistance services can include: Towing and winching, Lockout/unlocking, Tire replacement, Battery jumpstarts, Emergency fuel and motor fluids delivery and Transportation. 

Free roadside services may have limits. For example, cardmembers may need to pay for towing past 5 or 10 miles. Likewise, drivers often need to pay for the replacement tire or fluids, although the delivery and installation are complimentary.

Credit card companies provide rewards to cardholders, and some of those benefits occur when members rent vehicles. By using their credit card, drivers can earn points to redeem for travel, merchandise, cash back, and more.

Some cardholders have access to rental discounts, upgrades, and other special offers. One of the most advantageous rewards from credit cards is complimentary insurance coverage on rental cars. 

Some of the most popular credit cards when renting a vehicle include the following:

Platinum Card from American Express provides discounts for car rentals at Hertz. The Hertz AMEX Platinum deal also includes car-class upgrades and waivers on late fees up to four hours. The American Express rental car insurance will cover up to $75,000 in rental coverage if the driver declines the rental company’s coverage. However, AMEX car rental insurance does not cover all vehicle types. 

Chase Sapphire Reserve gives cardmembers special benefits when they rent vehicles from Avis, National Car Rental, and Silvercar. Chase Sapphire Reserve rental car insurance works in most countries, including Ireland and Jamaica. The rental insurance covers up to $75,000 for damage or theft of the vehicle. 

Capital One has several different Visa and Mastercard options with rental car benefits. Capital One car insurance rental coverage will vary by card. For example, Business and World Elite cardholders will have more comprehensive policies than the basic cards.

By using a credit card to rent a car, drivers can save money on insurance coverage and get special discounts. Drivers may also take advantage of roadside services if they carry certain cards.