
Boat insurance typically covers the motor for mechanical breakdowns, but not for wear and tear.
The motor is a crucial component of a boat, and insurance companies often provide coverage for its repair or replacement in case of damage.
For example, if the motor's propeller is damaged in a collision, the insurance will cover the cost of repairs.
However, if the motor's propeller is damaged due to normal use, the insurance won't cover the cost.
Most boat insurance policies have a deductible, which is the amount you must pay out of pocket before the insurance kicks in.
The deductible for motor damage can range from $500 to $2,000, depending on the policy and the insurance company.
It's essential to review your policy to understand the specifics of what is covered and what is not.
Worth a look: Does Fema Cover Insurance Deductible
Does Boat Insurance Cover Damage
Boat insurance covers accidents like collisions with other objects or environmental accidents that might blow your engine.

Normal wear and tear is not covered by boat insurance, and if your engine blows due to negligence, you're unlikely to be covered.
It's essential to have the damage appraised to determine if the cost of repairs is more or less than your deductible before filing an insurance claim.
If it costs less to repair the damages out of pocket, you might want to avoid filing a claim to avoid raising your insurance rates.
Filing a claim can increase your insurance rates, so it's crucial to weigh the costs before making a decision.
Boat insurance policies vary, but generally, they won't cover damage caused by normal wear and tear or negligence.
See what others are reading: Should I File a Claim with Liability Insurance
Boat Engine Repair and Maintenance
Regular maintenance of your boat engine is crucial to prevent costly repairs and ensure it runs smoothly.
A well-maintained engine can save you up to 30% on fuel costs.
Changing the oil and filter every 100 hours of operation is essential to keep your engine running efficiently.
A clogged fuel filter can cause the engine to stall, resulting in costly repairs.
Regularly checking and replacing the spark plugs can also improve your engine's performance and fuel efficiency.
Other Covered Issues

If your boat's engine suffers a cracked engine block, your insurance may cover it if the damage was caused by something other than negligence, such as severe weather or hitting a submerged object.
However, if the crack is due to freezing during the winter, your insurance company may not reimburse you if they believe you didn't take proper steps to prevent this.
Some insurance companies cover freezes in certain situations, so be sure to check your policy for a freeze coverage or winterization clause.
Accidental damage to the motor is typically covered under the physical damage section of your boat insurance policy.
This includes protection against damage caused by collisions with other objects, environmental accidents, and more.
However, normal wear and tear is not covered by boat insurance, so if your engine blows due to negligence or lack of maintenance, you may not be covered.
If you're unsure about what's covered under your policy, it's best to have the damage appraised and compare the cost of repairs to your deductible.
Here's a breakdown of what's typically covered under the physical damage section:
- Accidental damage
- Theft
- Fire and vandalism
- Weather-related damage
- Mechanical breakdown coverage (optional)
Keep in mind that the specifics of your coverage depend on your individual policy and insurance provider.
Purchasing Boat Insurance

Protecting your investment is crucial, especially when it comes to boat engine repair and maintenance. You can expect to pay between $200 and $1,000 per year for boat insurance, depending on the type and value of your boat.
The cost of insurance will also depend on the location where you plan to use your boat, with coastal areas often being more expensive than inland areas. Most boat owners choose to insure their vessels for up to $100,000 in value.
A standard boat insurance policy usually covers damage to your boat, as well as liability for accidents that may involve other people or property. It's essential to carefully review the policy terms and conditions before making a purchase.
You can often save money on insurance by taking a boating safety course or by installing safety features such as a VHF radio or a fire extinguisher on your boat.
You might like: How Many Months Can a Life Insurance Policy Be Backdated
Boat Insurance Coverage for Specific Issues

Engine damage can be a costly repair, but with the right insurance coverage, you may be able to get reimbursed. If your insurer agrees to cover it, you'll likely receive less than what you paid for your engine due to depreciation, especially if it's older.
With an agreed-upon value or hull value policy, your insurer may pay to replace a new one without accounting for depreciation if it's within a few years old. The cut-off for deducting appreciation varies by company, usually between 3 to 7 years.
Some insurers won't cover engine damage if they believe it was preventable, like with routine maintenance. But, some carriers will cover it, and you may be able to add mechanical breakdown coverage to your policy.
A cracked engine block can be a serious issue, but it may be covered by your insurance if the damage was caused by something other than negligence. Damage due to severe weather or hitting a submerged object may be covered, but freezing during the winter can be a different story.
Additional reading: Does an Umbrella Policy Cover Auto Accidents

If you fail to take proper steps to prevent engine damage, your insurance company won't reimburse you. But, some companies cover freezes in certain situations, so it's essential to double-check your policy.
Lower unit damage can be covered by your insurance, but only if it's not the result of negligence. Weather-related damage or hitting a submerged object should be covered, but if your provider believes the damage was preventable, they may not reimburse you.
Some insurers won't help replace your lower unit if it simply gives out near the end of its lifespan, as expected wear and tear isn't covered. But, some carriers will cover it, and you may be able to add mechanical breakdown coverage to your policy.
A blown engine can be a significant issue, and your insurance may not cover it if it's due to normal wear and tear or negligence. However, if the engine blowout is due to a collision with another object or an environmental accident, you may be covered.
It's essential to have the damage appraised before filing an insurance claim to see if the cost of repairs is more or less than the cost of your deductible. If it costs less to repair the damages out of pocket, you may want to avoid filing a claim.
Readers also liked: Emergency Dental Cost with Insurance

Here's a summary of the common causes of engine damage and their insurance coverage:
In general, boat insurance policies cover the motor under the physical damage section, which includes protection against accidental damage, theft, fire, vandalism, and weather-related incidents.
General Boat Insurance Information
Boat insurance policies are designed to cover various types of watercraft, including sailboats, motorboats, and personal watercraft (PWCs). These policies generally offer a range of coverages to protect against different risks.
There are four main types of coverages to consider: Physical Damage Coverage, Liability Coverage, Medical Payments Coverage, and Uninsured/Underinsured Boater Coverage.
Physical Damage Coverage is a crucial aspect of boat insurance, as it protects against accidental damage, theft, fire, vandalism, and weather-related incidents. This coverage typically includes protection against accidental damage, theft, fire, vandalism, and weather-related incidents.
The extent and specifics of motor coverage depend on your individual policy. It's essential to review your policy details to understand what's covered and what's not.
Here are the common types of physical damage coverage for boat motors:
- Accidental Damage
- Theft
- Fire and Vandalism
- Weather-Related Damage
- Mechanical Breakdown Coverage (optional)
Remember, your policy details, deductibles, exclusions, coverage limits, and agreed value vs. actual cash value are all important factors to consider when ensuring you have adequate motor coverage.
For your interest: Progressive Total Loss Coverage vs Actual Cash Value
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you claim a blown boat, motor on insurance?
Typically, boat insurance does not cover a blown engine unless it's the result of vandalism. Check your policy for comprehensive coverage details
Sources
- https://clovered.com/does-boat-insurance-cover-blown-engine/
- https://www.killingsworthagency.com/blog/does-boat-insurance-cover-a-blown-engine/
- https://www.nationwide.com/personal/insurance/boat/pages/coverage
- https://www.bbcboards.net/showthread.php
- https://thagency.com/does-boat-insurance-cover-the-motor/
Featured Images: pexels.com