What are Consumables in Car Insurance

What are Consumables in Car Insurance?

Consumables are materials used in a vehicle with a short life span and need regular replacement due to wear and tear. After one use, you can not reuse them further. These are essential for your car’s smooth functioning in the long run. Common examples include engine oil, brake fluid, nuts and bolts, ball bearings, washers, screws, grease, and AC refrigerant.

Consumables are not covered under a comprehensive plan. You need to have a suitable add-on to cover consumables-related costs. This add-on is called the consumables cover in car insurance.

Why Buy a Car Consumables Cover?

Consumables cover in car insurance is an add-on that helps to manage the repair cost by providing financial help for the wear and tear of smaller parts. Here are some reasons why you should purchase a consumables cover in car insurance:

• Covers essential parts: It covers essential items such as engine oil, brake fluid, and lubricants that are responsible for smooth running.
• Saves money: These small items can add up in repair costs. With consumables cover, you can avoid unexpected expenses for smaller parts that wear out quickly.
• Extra Protection: It adds extra protection for your car, especially during repairs or maintenance after an accident.
• Peace of Mind: Having this cover gives you peace of mind, knowing that even the smallest repairs won’t hit hard on your pocket.

Inclusions of Consumables Cover in Car Insurance

Consumables cover is the add-on that usually provides a financial safeguard against the following car parts to the insured:

• Bearing
• AC gas
• Radiator coolant
• Oil filter
• Nut and bolt
• Distilled water
• Lubricants
• Clip
• Grease
• Engine oil
• Screw
• Gearbox oil
• Washers
• Brake oil

Exclusions of Consumables Cover in Car Insurance

Some of the exclusions of the consumables cover are as follows:

• The driver who does not have a valid driving license while driving.
• The driver was under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• The car was used for commercial purposes.
• The insurance company was not informed about the replacements.
• Consumable damage due to electrical or mechanical failure.
• Consumables like engine oil were unnecessarily refilled.

Conditions Applicable in Consumables Cover in Car Insurance

Here are some conditions that you should fulfill while buying a consumables cover in car insurance:

• Applicable only under the Own Damage or comprehensive car insurance policy.
• Not valid for third-party vehicle claims.
• The accident must be reported immediately to the insurance company.
• The car must be repaired within 3 days of the accident to make a valid claim.
• This add-on is usually only for cars that are less than 5 years old.
• The repairs must be done at a network garage of the insurer.

Ways to Claim Consumables Cover in Car Insurance

You can easily get coverage for the consumables of your car in any of the following ways. Let's understand each of them briefly:

1. Cashless Claim

Top insurance companies often have partnerships with certain garages, called Network Garages. If you file a Consumable Cover Claim and your car is repaired at one of these garages, the insurance company will handle the payment directly.

To file a cashless claim, simply reach out to your insurer and provide basic details for verification. The insurance company will then send an executive to the garage to assess the situation and move the process forward.

2. Reimbursement Claim

With this type of claim, you have the freedom to get your car repaired at any chosen garage. Once the repairs are done and you need to pay the bill upfront. Then you send it to the insurance company along with documents like your policy copy to get reimbursement.

However, it is important to inform your insurance company before the repairs begin to get a hassle-free experience.

Conclusion

Consumables might be small in size, but they can become a considerable financial burden for your wallet if they're not covered under your comprehensive car insurance. After understanding the consumables cover meaning, their need, and much related information about them, you ensure better financial protection during claims.

This cover for smaller wear and tear will offer peace of mind at the time of repair in a cashless garage. Remember, small precautionary steps today will help you secure your car financially!