Does Car Insurance Cover Mechanical Repairs? What You Should Know
Car insurance is essential for protecting you in case of accidents, but what happens if your car breaks down? Will your insurance cover mechanical issues or repairs unrelated to a collision?
Picture this: you're at the mechanic after an unexpected breakdown. What does your insurance really cover? Generally, if your vehicle is damaged due to an accident or an unforeseen event like theft or fire, and you have the right coverage, your policy may pay for repairs. However, it's important to note that standard auto insurance policies don't cover regular wear and tear that occurs from daily use, age, or mechanical problems like engine or transmission failures.
Simply put, a standard auto insurance policy is designed to cover accidents and other unexpected events, not routine mechanical repairs or maintenance. It’s not intended to serve as a car maintenance or repair plan.
Repairs Typically Not Covered by Car Insurance
The following repairs are usually not included in a standard auto insurance policy:
- Replacement parts due to routine maintenance.
- Mechanical or engine failures not caused by an accident.
- Oil changes.
- Engine tune-ups.
- Brake pad replacements.
- Breakdowns not related to a covered incident.
For these types of issues, you would need more comprehensive coverage, such as extended warranties or coverage from the dealership.
Is There Such a Thing as Car Repair Insurance?
Some insurance companies offer what's called "car repair insurance," an optional coverage that helps cover the cost of minor repairs and mechanical failures due to normal wear and tear. This type of insurance is similar to an extended warranty but is typically offered by auto insurance companies. If you're considering this option, make sure to review exactly which repairs are included.
Does Car Insurance Cover Engine Failure?
The answer is no. Even if you have "full coverage," your car insurance will not cover engine failure unless it is the result of a covered claim. For issues like these, you would need a vehicle warranty or a specific car repair insurance policy.
What Is Mechanical Breakdown Coverage?
Mechanical breakdown coverage is an optional policy offered by some insurance companies. It covers repairs for mechanical issues that are not related to routine maintenance or an accident. This can include failures like a broken transmission or engine problems. It’s similar to an extended warranty but is sold by an insurance company. Typically, these policies come with a deductible.
While companies like Liberty Mutual don’t offer mechanical breakdown coverage, they do provide a variety of other car insurance options, including 24-Hour Roadside Assistance, which can be helpful if you need tire changes, battery recharges, or towing services when your car breaks down.
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