Does Car Insurance Cover Mechanical Problems?
Blog post description.
Shanti
10/3/20262 min read
Does Car Insurance Cover Mechanical Problems?
If your car’s engine suddenly stops working or the transmission develops a problem, you may wonder: “Will my car insurance pay for the repair?” The answer usually depends on what caused the damage and what coverage your policy includes.
When might insurance pay for repairs?
Car insurance usually does not cover mechanical problems caused by wear and tear or a defect. However, if a part is damaged in a covered incident, insurance may pay for the repair. For example:
• A car accident: If an accident damages the engine, transmission, or other mechanical parts, insurance may cover the damage. If another driver is at fault, their liability insurance may pay for the repairs. If you are at fault, you generally need collision coverage to use your own insurance.
• A collision with a deer or another animal: If the collision damages parts of your car, comprehensive coverage may help pay for repairs.
• Engine trouble after an accident: If a mechanic can show that the accident directly caused the engine problem, your insurance may review the damage for coverage.
The final decision depends on the details of the incident and the terms of your policy.
Which mechanical problems are usually not covered?
If your car breaks down without a covered accident or incident, you will usually have to pay for the repairs yourself. Standard car insurance generally does not cover:
• Engine or transmission problems caused by a defect
• Parts that wear out through everyday use
• Replacing brake pads, belts, filters, windshield wipers, or tires
• Damage caused by inadequate maintenance
Having collision and comprehensive coverage does not mean that every mechanical problem is covered.
Does “full coverage” pay for engine damage?
“Full coverage” does not have one official, standard definition. The term is commonly used to describe a policy that includes the liability coverage required by law, along with collision and comprehensive coverage. Even with these coverages, engine damage or a part failure caused by a defect or normal wear is usually not covered unless it resulted from a covered incident.
Can a warranty or mechanical breakdown coverage help?
If your car is still covered by the manufacturer’s warranty, some repairs may be covered under its terms. Coverage periods and covered parts vary, so check your warranty before authorizing a repair.
Some companies also offer separate mechanical breakdown coverage. It is different from standard car insurance and has its own terms, limits, and costs. Before buying it, carefully review what is covered, the deductible, and the exclusions.
What should you do if your car breaks down?
1. If you think the problem was caused by an accident or another covered incident, keep records and photos related to what happened.
2. Ask the mechanic to document the cause of the problem.
3. Before approving an expensive repair, contact your insurance company and ask how the claim review process works.
4. Check your car warranty and insurance policy.
Please note: Coverage and exclusions vary by insurance company, state, and policy. This article provides general information and is not a substitute for reviewing your policy or speaking with an insurance representative.
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