Product details
AA Vehicle Breakdown Safety Kit Plus (AA5618) – tyre inflator, warning triangle and more
This is one of those kits that actually makes life on the road a lot less faff. Developed by the AA for drivers who like to be prepared, the Vehicle Breakdown & Safety Kit Plus contains the practical bits you’re likely to need when something goes pear‑shaped — enough to get you safe and moving again, or at least to keep you comfortable while you wait for help.
What’s in the kit and why it helps
- The tyre inflator lets you top up a tyre so you can limp to a garage or a safe spot — ideal when the nearest puncture repair is miles away.
- Booster cables will often get a flat battery going again; if the battery is completely knackered you’ll still need a charger or a replacement, so it’s sensible to check battery health now and then.
- A tow rope gives you an option to be towed to safety if another driver can help — handy if a quick tow is the simplest fix.
- The warning triangle and hi‑vis vest make sure you’re seen by other road users, especially on dark or rainy nights. They’re also required in several European countries, so useful for trips abroad.
- The torch and glass hammer are immediate practical tools: the torch for seeing in the dark, and the hammer with seatbelt cutter for a quick escape in an emergency.
Practical details
The kit lives in a sturdy canvas storage bag that keeps everything tidy in the boot — no more rummaging for bits and bobs. The warning triangle meets EU standard ECE R27, so it’s designed to stand up in a breeze and is straightforward to set up. Packed dimensions are roughly 44.5 x 17 x 17 cm and it weighs about 3.11 kg, so it won’t hog space but feels robust enough for regular use.
When this kit is useful
- If a tyre loses pressure and the inflator buys you enough time to reach a garage.
- If the battery goes flat and a jump start is possible with booster cables.
- If there’s a minor collision and you need to get out quickly — the glass hammer and seatbelt cutter can be a real lifesaver.
- For driving in Europe, where a warning triangle and hi‑vis vest may be compulsory.
Bear in mind that booster cables won’t resurrect a completely dead battery in every case — they’ll often help, but a battery past its best will need replacing or professional attention. Likewise, the inflator is great for slow leaks or temporary repairs, but it’s not a permanent fix for a damaged tyre.
Technical and manufacturer info
Manufacturer: The Automobile Association. Brand: AA. Model/part number: AA5618. Packed dimensions: 44.5 x 17 x 17 cm. Item weight: 3.11 kg. The kit includes a tyre inflator, warning triangle, tow rope, hi‑vis vest, torch, glass hammer (with seatbelt cutter), booster cables and a storage bag.
All told, it’s a sensible bit of kit to keep in the boot. It won’t replace full roadside assistance, but it does give you options, cuts stress and can shorten an awkward wait. A proper useful pack for everyday drivers and regular travellers alike.