If repairs are directly the result of a collision or another covered incident, car insurance may help cover the cost of the repairs. Incidents like fire or theft are often covered, while routine wear and tear is not typically covered by an insurance provider.
Will Insurance Cover Repairs For A Broken Down Car?
Routine maintenance tasks, such as an oil change, are not generally covered by car insurance policies. Whether it’s keeping up with usual maintenance, a blown engine, or mechanical failure, insurance will most likely not help with repair costs.
The majority of drivers should plan to pay out of pocket for routine maintenance whenever a car breaks down.
What If A Car Is Damaged In An Accident?
Oftentimes, collision coverage can help pay for repairs when your car is damaged in an accident with another car or object, such as a tree or fence. Typically, this type of coverage can provide help if a driver is involved in a single-car accident.
It could also include coverage for any damage that results from something like hitting a pothole. If your car becomes damaged or has mechanical problems due to the collision, this coverage can likely help pay for any related repairs.
This coverage is usually optional, unless you happen to be leasing a car or it is financed. You can choose your deductible, which is the amount you will end up paying toward a claim prior to the coverage kicking in.
If you do not have this type of coverage, though, you will likely be responsible for the full repair or replacement costs. If the car is totaled, comprehensive coverage will usually provide up to the actual cash value, meaning exactly what the car was worth at the time of the accident.
Does Insurance Cover Non-Accident Repairs?
Comprehensive coverage can help cover repair costs if your car is damaged outside of a collision. This coverage usually provides protection for damages such as the following:
- Theft.
- Vandalism.
- Fire.
- Falling objects.
- Animal damage.
- Natural disasters.
This means if you find a tree has fallen onto your hood, for example, comprehensive coverage may help pay for the repair-related costs. Comprehensive coverage is optional, just like collision coverage. Be aware that you will be responsible for the deductible, and that there will be limits to this coverage.
Alternative Options To Protect Your Car
Drivers may want to consider a car warranty if additional protection is wanted. These warranties will often come along with newer cars, designed to help pay for any specified mechanical breakdowns. A warranty will usually cover certain parts and defects for a set amount of time or until the car reaches an outlined mileage.
Roadside assistance is another option for drivers to consider. This program frequently offers towing services, jump starts, flat-tire changes, and other services. These services are made available through memberships, included in insurance coverage, or on an as-needed basis.
Conclusion
Most insurance policies will not cover mechanical repairs and routine maintenance, but they do provide protection in a variety of different scenarios. Always review your policy and ask your car insurance provider for details.
University Auto Repair In Flagstaff, AZ
When you need your car fixed, you need it fixed fast, and you need it fixed the right way. At University Auto Repair, we strive to provide the best and highest quality auto repairs in the region. We live here too, and we are dedicated to the safety, security, and convenience of drivers and car owners throughout the Flagstaff area. Contact our team today!
