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Getting insurance to cover engine failure and blown motor costs can be a challenge, but it's not impossible. You need to understand what's covered and what's not.
Some insurance policies may cover engine failure due to mechanical breakdown, but others may not. For example, a policy may exclude coverage for engine failure caused by wear and tear.
In some cases, you may be able to add an engine failure coverage rider to your policy, which can provide additional protection. This rider may be available for an extra fee.
To increase your chances of getting insurance to cover engine failure, it's essential to carefully review your policy documents and ask questions about coverage.
What Causes a Blown Motor
A blown motor can be a costly and stressful experience. Lack of maintenance is a common cause of engine failure, often due to neglecting regular oil changes and coolant checks.
Regular maintenance is key to preventing engine failure. Overheating is another major reason, which can be caused by a malfunctioning cooling system or low coolant levels.
Engine overheating can lead to severe damage, so it's essential to monitor your engine's temperature. Oil leaks are also a significant contributor to blown motors, as running an engine with insufficient oil can cause catastrophic failure.
Mechanical failure, such as a broken timing belt or faulty components, can also result in a blown engine. Understanding the cause of the engine failure is crucial for getting insurance to cover the damage.
Here are the common causes of a blown motor:
- Lack of Maintenance
- Overheating
- Oil Leaks
- Mechanical Failure
Does Car Insurance Cover a Blown Motor?
Car insurance typically doesn't cover a blown motor unless it's a result of a covered accident or peril. Regular maintenance is crucial to prolong the life of your engine.
If your car's engine fails due to lack of maintenance, you'll be responsible for the bill yourself. However, if you can demonstrate that a crash or other specific incident was the cause, you might be able to get the damage repaired under your insurance.
Typically, car insurance policies only cover damages resulting from accidents, theft, vandalism, and certain natural disasters. Mechanical failures like a blown engine are usually not covered unless they're directly caused by an external event.
Does Car Cover Failure?
Car insurance won't cover engine failure due to lack of maintenance, so it's essential to schedule regular maintenance for your car.
Regular oil changes and tuning up your ignition and cooling systems can help prolong the life of your engine. Your car insurance will only cover engine failure if it's a result of a covered accident or peril.
Understanding your policy details is crucial, as auto insurance coverage typically doesn't extend to mechanical failures like blown engines unless specific conditions are met.
At Fuller Insurance Agency, they're dedicated to helping clients navigate their insurance options effectively, and you can contact them directly at (800) 640-4238 if you have questions about your auto insurance policy.
Typical Car Insurance Covers Damage After an Incident
Typical car insurance only covers damage after an incident. This means that if your car's engine fails due to normal wear and tear, you'll be responsible for the bill yourself.
In most cases, car insurance, even full coverage, won't cover car repairs due to mechanical breakdown or wear and tear. This is because there are four common types of coverage that pay for the repair of your car, but none of them cover mechanical problems.
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Here are the four common types of coverage that pay for the repair of your car:
- Collision: Pays to repair your car after a crash, regardless of who was at fault
- Comprehensive: Pays to repair car damage that's not related to a car accident, such as falling rocks or a house fire
- Liability coverage: Pays to repair your car when you are at fault for a crash (if the other driver was at fault, their coverage would pay to repair your car)
- Uninsured motorist: Pays for repairs to your car after a crash if the at-fault driver doesn't have insurance
None of these coverages cover engine damage due to normal wear and tear. If you're having trouble with your car's engine and can demonstrate that a crash or other specific incident was the cause, you can likely get the damage repaired under your insurance.
Extended Warranty and MBI
Choosing between an extended warranty and MBI can be a tough decision. An extended warranty is available for a broader range of vehicles.
If you're concerned about a seized engine or other mechanical failure, you might want to consider mechanical breakdown insurance. It's cheaper than an extended warranty and provides more flexibility when it comes to mechanics.
One thing to keep in mind is that engine failure is not normally covered by insurance. However, mechanical breakdown insurance and extended warranties can cover engine failure for certain exceptions.
In some cases, engine failure may be covered by an extended warranty or MBI, but it's essential to review the terms and conditions carefully.
Dealing with a Blown Motor
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Standard auto insurance policies generally don't cover engine failure unless it's a direct result of a covered incident. This means that if your engine blows due to wear and tear, you're unlikely to get insurance to cover the costs.
Comprehensive coverage might help if the engine failure is caused by an external event like a tree falling on your car. However, it's unlikely to cover mechanical failures unless they're directly caused by an external event.
Collision coverage might apply if the blown engine is a result of an accident, such as hitting another vehicle or object. If this is the case, you can file a claim under your collision coverage to help pay for repairs.
Mechanical Breakdown Insurance (MBI) is an optional add-on that specifically addresses mechanical failures, including blown engines. If you have this coverage, you may be able to file a claim for repairs.
Here are the types of coverage that might help with a blown motor:
If you find yourself facing a blown engine, assess the situation to determine whether it was caused by an accident or mechanical failure. Then, review your policy to understand what types of coverage you have and if MBI is included. Contact your insurance agent to discuss your situation and get help with filing any necessary claims.
Sources
- https://www.plymouthrock.com/resources/does-car-insurance-cover-engine-failure
- https://www.valuepenguin.com/car-insurance-engine-failure-breakdown
- https://www.pierceinsgroup.com/newsblog/auto-insurance-engine-failure-coverage/
- https://www.autoexpresshouston.com/blog/will-my-car-insurance-compensate-for-engine-failure
- https://www.fullerins.com/blog/insurance-cover-for-blown-engine
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