Car insurance is designed to protect you financially in the event of an accident or other covered incident, but it typically does not cover mechanical problems or breakdowns that are not related to a covered peril. If your car simply stops working due to a mechanical failure, such as a blown engine or transmission issue, your standard car insurance policy will not provide coverage for the repairs.
What Does Car Insurance Cover?
Car insurance policies usually include the following coverages:
Liability coverage: Pays for damages and injuries you cause to others if you are at fault in an accident.
Collision coverage: Pays for repairs to your vehicle if you collide with another vehicle or object.
Comprehensive coverage: Pays for damages to your vehicle from non-collision events, such as theft, vandalism, or natural disasters.
Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage: Pays for damages if you are hit by a driver with no insurance or insufficient insurance.
While these coverages can help pay for repairs if your vehicle is damaged in an accident, they do not cover mechanical problems or wear and tear.
Exceptions to the Rule
There are a few exceptions where car insurance may cover mechanical problems:
If the mechanical failure is directly caused by a covered accident, such as a collision that damages the engine, your collision or comprehensive coverage may pay for repairs.
If you have purchased a separate mechanical breakdown insurance policy, it may cover certain mechanical failures, similar to an extended warranty.
If the problem is covered under your vehicle’s manufacturer’s warranty, the warranty may pay for repairs.
However, in most cases, you will be responsible for the cost of repairs if your car stops working due to a mechanical issue not related to an accident or other covered event.
Preventing Mechanical Problems
To help prevent costly mechanical problems and breakdowns, it’s important to follow your vehicle’s recommended maintenance schedule and address any issues promptly. Regular oil changes, tire rotations, and other maintenance can help extend the life of your vehicle and reduce the risk of unexpected breakdowns.
If you do experience a mechanical problem, it’s important to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to determine the cause and get an estimate for repairs. Depending on the issue and your coverage, you may be able to file a claim with your insurance company or the vehicle’s manufacturer.