Car repair insurance, also known as mechanical breakdown insurance, is a way to add an extra layer of protection to your auto insurance policy. This type of insurance covers the cost of repairs if your vehicle breaks down, needs replacement parts, or suffers other types of mechanical problems. It is important to note that car repair insurance does not cover routine maintenance and services such as oil changes, tire rotations, or brake pad replacements. Additionally, wear and tear on parts such as belts, hoses, and brakes are generally excluded from coverage. This insurance also does not provide coverage for towing or damage resulting from accidents, collisions, or environmental factors. However, it can give you peace of mind knowing that you likely have coverage for unexpected repairs. Several companies offer car repair insurance, including Geico, Olive, Mercury, and CarShield, each with its own eligibility requirements and coverage options. When considering car repair insurance, it is essential to compare different providers and understand the repair process and coverage limitations.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
What is covered | Breakdown-related repairs after the manufacturer's warranty expires or fails to cover mechanical failures. |
Major mechanical failures, including issues with the powertrain, cooling systems, and fuel systems. | |
Repairs to most original mechanical parts of the car (except for maintenance and wear and tear). | |
Parts and labour for covered losses. | |
What is not covered | Routine maintenance expenses, such as oil changes, tire rotations, or brake pad replacements. |
Wear and tear on parts, such as belts, hoses, and brakes. | |
Towing or damage resulting from accidents, collisions, or environmental factors. | |
Deductible | You pay a deductible, then the insurance covers the remaining cost of covered repairs. |
The deductible is typically higher than that of an extended warranty. | |
You pay the deductible each time you make a claim. | |
Eligibility | New or leased cars that are less than 15 months old and with fewer than 15,000 miles. |
The customer must be the first owner of the vehicle. | |
Some policies require the car to have fewer than 12,000 miles. |
What You'll Learn
Mechanical breakdown insurance
MBI is typically offered for new or leased cars that are less than 15 months old and have less than 15,000 miles on the odometer. The cost of MBI varies depending on the type of car, mileage, and insurance provider, but it generally ranges from $30 to $100 per year. Some insurance companies, such as Geico and Progressive, offer MBI as an add-on to their auto insurance policies. MBI can also be purchased from third-party providers, such as Good Sam, which offers coverage for vehicles and RVs that are 15 model years old or newer and have less than 100,000 miles.
When purchasing MBI, you will need to choose a deductible, which is the amount you will pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. Deductibles for MBI typically range from $100 to $500. It is important to note that MBI does not cover vehicle towing, but this can usually be added as an extra to your policy.
MBI can be a smart choice for those with newer vehicles who want to avoid high out-of-pocket repair costs, as well as those who plan to keep their vehicles for a long time. However, for those with reliable vehicles or those who have money set aside for repairs, MBI may not be necessary.
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Car repair insurance
When it comes to eligibility requirements, they vary from company to company. For example, Geico offers MBI for new or leased cars that are less than 15 months old and have fewer than 15,000 miles, while AAA provides coverage for vehicles up to 12 years old with up to 175,000 miles.
Before purchasing car repair insurance, it is essential to consider whether it makes financial sense for you. The value of car repair insurance depends on factors such as your car's age, your driving habits, and your existing car insurance policy. It may be more cost-effective to opt for an extended warranty or build an emergency fund to cover unexpected repair costs.
In summary, car repair insurance can provide peace of mind by easing the financial burden of unexpected mechanical repairs. However, it is important to carefully review the eligibility requirements, coverage details, and alternatives before making a decision.
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Vehicle protection plans
When considering a vehicle protection plan, there are several factors to keep in mind. Firstly, eligibility requirements vary between companies. For example, Geico's Mechanical Breakdown Insurance (MBI) is only available for new or leased cars less than 15 months old with fewer than 15,000 miles. In contrast, AAA's Vehicle Protection Plan covers vehicles up to 12 years old with up to 175,000 miles on the odometer.
Another factor to consider is the level of coverage. While most vehicle protection plans cover repairs to major mechanical components, there may be exclusions for certain parts or systems. For instance, Geico's MBI doesn't cover maintenance, general wear and tear, towing, or damage resulting from accidents. On the other hand, Olive's vehicle repair plan covers additional features like power liftgates, power seat motors, heated seats, and heated steering wheels.
Additionally, it's important to understand the claims process and whether you'll need to pay upfront for repairs and get reimbursed, or if the service provider will pay for the repair directly. The deductible is also an important consideration, as it will affect how much you pay out of pocket when making a claim.
When deciding if a vehicle protection plan is right for you, it's essential to evaluate your car's age, your driving habits, and your financial situation. For newer cars, the standard warranty may be sufficient, and the costs of car repair insurance might not be justifiable. However, as your car gets older or if you buy a used car with significant mileage, car repair insurance can provide valuable peace of mind.
In conclusion, vehicle protection plans can offer valuable protection against unexpected repair costs. By understanding the eligibility requirements, coverage details, claims process, deductible, and considering your personal circumstances, you can make an informed decision about whether to opt for a vehicle protection plan.
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Long-term powertrain wrap vehicle service contracts
Allstate's Long-Term Powertrain Wrap Vehicle Service Contract offers protection from out-of-pocket vehicle repair costs. This service contract covers repairs to the engine, transmission, drive axles, brakes, electrical systems, steering, and cooling systems, among other items not protected by the Long-Term Powertrain Limited Warranty.
The Long-Term Powertrain Wrap Vehicle Service Contract provides peace of mind by covering 100% of the cost of covered parts and labour, minus the deductible. This contract also enhances the resale value of your vehicle as it can be fully transferred to a new owner. Additionally, it shields you from the financial burden of rising repair costs.
The eligibility criteria for Allstate's Long-Term Powertrain Wrap Vehicle Service Contract are not explicitly stated, but it appears to be aimed at vehicles that are beyond the standard factory warranty period. This service contract is sold through authorised dealers across the country.
When considering Allstate's Long-Term Powertrain Wrap Vehicle Service Contract, it is essential to review the specific terms and conditions, including the repairs covered, the deductible amount, and any exclusions or limitations. Comparing this service contract with other options, such as extended warranties or emergency funds, can help determine the most suitable choice for your needs and budget.
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Extended warranties
Another important distinction between extended warranties and car repair insurance is how they are paid for. Extended warranties often require a large lump-sum payment upfront, whereas car repair insurance is typically paid for on a monthly basis. Additionally, extended warranties may be included in the financed car purchase, resulting in interest charges on top of the warranty cost. On the other hand, car repair insurance is purchased separately from an insurance company and does not incur interest charges.
When considering an extended warranty, it is worth noting that there have been complaints about warranty companies, including issues with unpaid claims and poor customer service. However, legitimate and well-reviewed providers do exist, and conducting thorough research can help identify reputable companies.
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Frequently asked questions
Car repair insurance, also known as mechanical breakdown insurance (MBI), is a type of insurance that covers the cost of repairing your car if it experiences mechanical failures not caused by an accident or wear and tear.
Car repair insurance covers breakdown-related repairs after your manufacturer's warranty expires, or when your vehicle warranty doesn't cover a mechanical failure.
A number of companies offer car repair insurance, including Geico, AAA, and Allstate.
Car repair insurance can give you peace of mind knowing that you likely have coverage for an unexpected repair. However, the value of car repair insurance depends on your car’s age, your driving habits, and your existing car insurance policy.