Car insurance is meant to cover you for costs incurred due to unexpected circumstances, such as a car accident. In general, your auto insurance policy does not cover your expenses for routine maintenance, car repairs due to mechanical breakdown or for wear and tear that naturally occurs to any vehicle as it is used. However, you may be able to purchase additional protection that covers some wear and tear.
If you are unsure about whether your insurance company will cover your car damage, read on to learn more about wear and tear and auto insurance coverage.
Damage Versus Wear and Tear
If you drive your car, it’s only natural that it will begin to show signs of wear and tear over the years. So, what is considered damage and, therefore, covered by insurance and what is considered wear and tear? Here are some examples of wear and tear that likely aren’t covered by your auto insurance.
- Body rust or peeling paint
- Interior scuffs or damaged upholstery
- Worn brakes and engine parts
- Electronics failures
- General maintenance
And here some examples of things that may just be covered by your auto insurance policy, depending on your policy choices:
- Vandalism
- Collision damage, such as dents
- Weather damage, such as from hail
- Fire damage
- Windshield damage
There are alternative insurance options that can help you with some costs associated with wear and tear on your vehicle. Mechanical Breakdown Insurance (MBI) is an increasingly popular coverage option for some. Let’s learn more about it.
Mechanical Breakdown Insurance
As the cost of car repair rises, some people are looking for ways to ease the burden of high repair bills and some insurance companies are offering plans to help.
MBI is not regular car insurance and is not required insurance in any state. There are some limitations, such as on older cars, which might not be eligible for this type of policy. Restrictions may also be placed on mileage.
Mechanical Breakdown Insurance can help pay for things like engine repairs, transmission repairs or new brakes. The cost of MBI will vary, just like regular auto insurance, depending on the characteristics of your vehicle and other factors.
Limitations of Mechanical Breakdown Insurance
Like any insurance, there are some specific requirements and limitations on MBI policies. For instance, MBI providers usually have an approved list of auto repair shops that you must use and may not include your preferred mechanic.
Also, just like your regular auto insurance policy you’ll have to pay a deductible, or out-of-pocket money before the insurance coverage kicks in. Unlike your regular policy though, MBI deductibles are usually pretty low. This is one of the attractions of MBI policies; even with the premiums and deductible, it is still likely hat you will save money.
Regular maintenance, such as replacing fluids or balancing new tires and wheels, are commonly excluded from MBI policies so be sure to understand the policy before you purchase.
When you’re ready to take a comprehensive look at your car insurance, we’re here to help. InsuranceWins gets you up-to-date quotes for all kinds of car insurance policies with just a few easy steps. Fill out the form and start learning how you can save on your auto insurance!
