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When was the first time you got your car insured? Many questions go through the mind of a car insurance buyer. One of the most common questions is whether car insurance covers non-accident repairs.
The answer to this doubt totally depends on the damage and the type of insurance policy you have. While car insurance generally covers accidental damage, it usually does not pay for repairs caused by mechanical failure, regular wear and tear, or poor maintenance.
We will discuss more about how car insurance covers non-accident repairs.
What Are Non-Accident Repairs in Car Insurance?
Non-accident repairs are the term used for damage not caused by a road accident or collision. Under a comprehensive car insurance policy, these repairs are generally covered if the damage results from insured events. These losses include damage from theft, fire, vandalism, floods, or other natural disasters.
However, it generally does not cover repairs caused by:
- Regular wear and tear
- Mechanical or electrical breakdowns
- Ageing of parts
- Poor maintenance
Does Car Insurance Cover Non-Accident Repairs?
Yes, but only in certain situations. Whether car insurance covers non-accident repairs depends on the cause of the damage and your insurance policy.
A comprehensive car insurance policy generally covers repairs if the damage is caused by insured events such as:
- Theft or attempted theft
- Fire or explosion
- Floods, storms, earthquakes, and other natural disasters
- Riots, strikes, or vandalism
However, it does not cover repairs caused by:
- Regular wear and tear
- Mechanical or electrical breakdowns
- Engine failure due to ageing
- Routine servicing and maintenance
- Damage caused by negligence or improper maintenance
So, if the repair is required because of an insured event, you can usually file a claim. If the damage results from normal usage or lack of maintenance, you will have to bear the repair cost yourself.
Note: Coverage can vary depending on your insurer and policy terms. Always read the policy document before filing a claim.
How Add-ons Help with Non-Accident Repairs?
A standard car insurance policy does not cover every non-accident repair. However, add-on covers can provide financial protection for certain repairs that usually get excluded.
Here are the names of add-ons and their role in providing non-accident repair coverage to your car:
Engine Protection Cover
This add-on covers engine damage caused by water ingress, hydrostatic lock, or lubricant leakage. But it is also recommended to go through the policy terms to understand the coverage better.
Zero Depreciation Cover
As the name suggests, the car parts can be replaced and get financial coverage without considering depreciation deduction under this add-on. It also reduces your out-of-pocket expenses during a covered claim.
Consumables Cover
With consumable cover, you will get paid for consumables such as engine oil, coolant, brake oil, nuts, bolts, and lubricants used during covered repairs.
Roadside Assistance (RSA)
The RSA add-on in car insurance provides services whenever the insured vehicle needs assistance while being on the road. It includes benefits like towing, flat tyre assistance, battery jump-start, and emergency fuel delivery if your car breaks down.
Return to Invoice Cover
ROI cover pays the invoice value of your car if it is stolen or declared a total loss due to an insured event.
Tips to Minimise Non-Accident Repair Expenses
You can reduce unexpected repair expenses by following some simple tips. So, you should:
- Choose comprehensive insurance for wider protection
- Buy relevant add-ons like Engine Protection and Zero Depreciation Cover.
- Service your car regularly to prevent mechanical failures.
- Repair minor issues early before they become costly.
- Park in a safe place to reduce the risk of theft or vandalism.
- Know your policy coverage to avoid claim rejections.
- Renew your policy on time to maintain continuous protection.
Can You Claim Insurance for a Non-Accidental Breakdown?
The answer is no.
Car insurance does not cover non-accidental breakdowns caused by mechanical failure, electrical faults, wear and tear, ageing, or poor maintenance.
However, you can claim insurance if the breakdown results from an insured event, such as fire, theft, or flood damage. In some cases, add-ons like Engine Protection Cover can also cover engine damage caused by water ingress or hydrostatic lock, subject to policy terms.
Conclusion
In conclusion, car insurance does not cover every non-accident repair. It generally covers repairs only when the damage is caused by insured events such as fire, theft, floods, or natural disasters. Repairs due to regular wear and tear, mechanical failures, or poor maintenance are usually not covered.
Before buying a policy, understand its coverage, exclusions, and available add-ons so you can avoid unexpected repair expenses.
FAQs
Yes, car insurance can cover non-accident repairs if the damage is caused by insured events such as fire, theft, floods, vandalism, or natural disasters. However, repairs due to wear and tear, mechanical failure, or poor maintenance are generally not covered.
You can claim insurance only if the breakdown is caused by a covered event, such as a fire, flood, or theft. Mechanical or electrical failures are generally not covered.
No, regular servicing, maintenance, and replacement of worn-out parts are the vehicle owner's responsibility and are not covered by car insurance.
Yes, add-ons like Engine Protection Cover and Zero Depreciation Cover can reduce your repair expenses for certain covered damages. Remember that the coverage will depend on your policy terms.
Check whether the damage is covered under your policy. If it is a covered event, inform your insurer and follow the claim process.
A comprehensive car insurance policy offers better protection as it covers damage caused by events like fire, theft, floods, and natural disasters, subject to policy terms.
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