Introduction to Does Car Insurance Cover Repairs?
Car repairs can be costly, and if you’ve ever experienced a major breakdown—especially something like engine failure—you may wonder whether your car insurance will cover the expenses. So, does car insurance cover repairs? The answer depends on the type of insurance policy you have and the reason for the damage. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down when car insurance may or may not cover repair costs and explore alternative coverage options to help you save money on vehicle repairs.
When Does Car Insurance Cover Repairs?
Does Car insurance cover repairs when the damage is caused by a covered event, such as an accident or natural disaster. If you only carry your state’s minimum required liability coverage, your policy will only pay for damages you cause to another vehicle or property, not for repairs to your own car.
However, if you have a full coverage policy, your car may be covered under the following types of insurance:
Collision Coverage
- Pays for repairs to your vehicle after an accident, regardless of fault.
- Covers damage caused by hitting another car or an object (such as a guardrail or pole).
- Requires you to pay a deductible before insurance kicks in.
Comprehensive Coverage
- Covers damages that are not related to a collision, such as:
- Theft
- Vandalism
- Fire
- Floods and other weather-related incidents
- Damage from hitting an animal
- Like collision coverage, it requires a deductible to be paid before coverage applies.
If your vehicle’s engine failure is caused by an accident, fire, or another covered event under these policies, your insurance company will likely cover the repair or replacement costs after you pay your deductible. However, if the failure is due to normal wear and tear or mechanical issues, your standard insurance policy won’t provide coverage.
Does Car Insurance Cover Repairs of Engine Failure?
A common concern among drivers is whether car insurance covers engine failure. Standard insurance policies generally do not cover repairs for engine failure unless the failure was caused by a covered peril, such as an accident or flood.
If your engine stops working due to age, lack of maintenance, or mechanical defects, your car insurance will not pay for repairs. However, there are alternative options to get coverage for engine-related repairs.
Does Car Insurance Cover Repairs of Gap?
No, gap insurance does not cover repairs for your vehicle. Gap insurance is designed to cover the difference between what you owe on your car loan and the actual cash value (ACV) of your car if it is totaled in a covered accident. Since engine failure doesn’t result in a total loss due to an accident, gap insurance will not provide financial assistance for repairs.
What Types of Coverage Can Help Pay for Repairs?
While standard auto insurance won’t cover mechanical failures, there are other types of coverage that may help with repair costs.
Extended Warranties
Many new or certified pre-owned vehicles come with manufacturer warranties that cover major mechanical repairs, including engine or transmission failure, within a certain period or mileage limit.
- Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: Covers most components of the vehicle, including electronics and mechanical systems, for a set number of years or miles.
- Powertrain Warranty: Covers the engine, transmission, and drivetrain components for a longer duration than bumper-to-bumper warranties.
Mechanical Breakdown Insurance (MBI)
Mechanical Breakdown Insurance (MBI), also known as car repair insurance, is an optional coverage offered by some insurers to cover repairs to essential vehicle components, including:
- Engine
- Transmission
- Steering
- Electrical systems
MBI is similar to an extended warranty but is typically more affordable and may be purchased through your auto insurer. If you have a high-value vehicle or want peace of mind against costly mechanical issues, adding MBI to your policy could be a wise decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I File a Claim if My Engine Blows Up?
If your engine fails due to an accident or another covered peril under your collision or comprehensive insurance, you can file a claim, and your insurance will cover the repairs after your deductible is met. However, if the failure is due to wear and tear or a mechanical defect, your insurance won’t cover it unless you have MBI or an extended warranty.
How Do I Know If My Engine Is Blown?
Some common signs of engine failure include:
- Excessive exhaust smoke
- Metal shavings in the oil
- Significant power loss
- Smoke or unusual noises from the engine compartment
If you notice these signs, you should stop driving immediately and have your car inspected by a mechanic.
What Should I Do If My Engine Fails While Driving?
If your engine fails while on the road:
- Shift into neutral and steer your vehicle to a safe location.
- Turn on hazard lights to alert other drivers.
- Call for roadside assistance if available through your insurance policy.
Is Engine Failure Repairable?
It depends on the severity of the damage. Minor issues like a broken timing belt or faulty sensors can be fixed easily. However, severe failures may require an engine rebuild or full replacement, which can be costly. If your vehicle is still under warranty or covered by MBI, you may be able to get assistance with repair costs.
Final Thoughts: Should You Get Extra Coverage for Repairs?
While car insurance won’t cover repairs due to wear and tear, you can still protect yourself from costly breakdowns with options like mechanical breakdown insurance or an extended warranty. If you’re worried about unexpected repair expenses, consider comparing quotes from insurers that offer MBI to find the best coverage for your needs.
By understanding your policy and available coverage options, you can make an informed decision and avoid unexpected out-of-pocket expenses when your car needs repairs.
By optimizing your policy and exploring options like extended warranties or MBI, you can ensure that you’re financially protected from unexpected repair costs. If you’re wondering “does car insurance cover repairs?” this guide has provided you with everything you need to know to make the best choice for your vehicle and budget.
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