What is Engine Protector Cover in Car Insurance?

Engine Protector Cover in car insurance is an add-on cover that provides protection against damages to the engine of your vehicle. It specifically covers repairs or replacement costs for the engine and its components in cases where the damage is caused due to water ingestion, oil leakage, or other mechanical failures that aren’t typically covered under a standard car insurance policy. This cover is especially useful for vehicles that frequently drive in flood-prone areas or face extreme weather conditions.

Will car insurance cover engine failure?

Car insurance is a necessary expense for any vehicle owner, as it provides financial protection in case of accidents, thefts, and natural disasters. However, when it comes to engine failure, the coverage provided can vary. * In India, car insurance, generally, covers damage to the vehicle caused by accidents, theft, and natural disasters. However, whether engine failure is covered or not depends on the specific policy. Some policies may have a separate clause for mechanical or electrical breakdown, which would allow for a claim in the event of engine failure. However, other policies may not cover engine failure at all. It's important to review the policy carefully and understand what is and isn't covered. * It is always advisable to take a Comprehensive Car Insurance Policy which will cover the damages in case of engine failure. Comprehensive insurance policies are popular and preferred as they provide extensive insurance coverage. These policies typically include coverage for damages caused by accidents, theft, natural disasters, and even engine failure. *

Engine Protection Add on Cover in Car Insurance

An engine protector cover is an add-on that protects you from the financial risk associated with the engine of the car. These risks include leakage in lubricating oil, water ingression, hydrostatic lock, physical damages to gearbox, pistons, connecting rods, etc. It is not included in the basic coverage of the policy. Hence, it is advisable to include it in your coverage. *

What is the need for an engine protection cover?

If you buy comprehensive car insurance online or offline, it specifically states that in case of any damages caused to the engine, the policy shall not cover it. Moreover, it mentions that you will have to cover the repair charges. If you ever face this unpleasant situation, it can be highly damaging to your finances. * Let’s understand this better with an example: You are someone who lives in the eastern states of India which experience floods every year from the Brahmaputra River. In such a situation, if your car gets submerged in water it may be possible that it has also damaged the engine. Now if you make a claim, your insurance claim could be rejected on the basis that the engine is not covered under the standard policy coverage. So, having a comprehensive policy at such a time does not benefit much. *

Who Should Opt for Engine Protection Cover in Car Insurance?

1. Owners of New or Expensive Cars – Repairing or replacing a high-end car engine can be costly, making this cover beneficial.
2. People Living in Flood-Prone Areas – Protects against water ingress and hydrostatic lock, which can severely damage the engine.
3. Frequent Long-Distance Travelers – Ideal for those who often drive on highways or in areas with rough terrains, increasing engine wear and tear.
4. Luxury or High-Performance Car Owners – Premium vehicles have expensive engine components, making this add-on cover a cost-effective choice.
5. Owners of Vehicles Without a Manufacturer’s Warranty – Helps cover engine repair expenses after the manufacturer’s warranty expires.
6. Commercial Vehicle Owners – Businesses relying on vehicles for operations can avoid high repair costs and minimize downtime with this coverage.

Can you Claim Car Insurance for Engine Failure?

When it comes to claiming car insurance for engine failure, the process can be a bit more complicated. If you want your policy to cover engine failure, you need an engine protection add-on for it. Even then, you will typically need to provide documentation of the failure, such as a repair estimate or mechanic's report. Additionally, you may need to pay a deductible, which is the amount you are responsible for paying out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. * In conclusion, while comprehensive car insurance covers damages to the vehicle caused by accidents, theft, and natural disasters, coverage for engine failure will have to be purchased as an add-on. It's important to carefully review the terms and conditions of a car insurance policy to understand what is and what isn’t covered. Additionally, it would be always advisable to take a Comprehensive Insurance Policy which will cover the damages in case of engine failure. *

What are the exclusions to claiming under engine protection cover?

Here are a few specific conditions that are excluded from engine protection cover:

1. Force starting the engine when the car is submerged in water
2. Damages consequential to an accident
3. Damages due to normal wear and tear
4. If the damage is caused when the driver was under influence of alcohol
5. If the driver doesn’t hold a valid driving license
6. The cost of lubricants

Limitations of engine protection cover

1. Limited number of claims

The number of claims that can be made in a policy year is always limited. Though the number differs, it is, generally, restricted to two claims. It is advisable to know all details about how to claim car insurance for a quick & hassle-free process when required.

2. Age limit on car

The engine protection cover is available for cars up to five or seven years of purchase depending upon the insurance company.

For whom is the cover of engine protection ideal?

The engine protection cover is ideal for:

1. People living in flood-prone areas
2. People that have an expensive car
3. People that have a new car

What is the effect on the annual insurance premium amount?

As you opt for a cover that comes in addition to the regular policy, you will have to pay an additional amount in your premium every year. However, the amount of increase in annual premium is comparatively lower than the amount you may have to incur in case you suffer from any engine damage.

FAQs:

1. How can you opt for an engine protector cover in your car insurance policy?

Engine protector cover is available as an add-on cover that you can opt for while buying a policy or during car insurance renewal.

2. Is any amount of damage covered in car engine protection cover paid by insurance companies?

The amount of damage covered by the engine protection add-on is subject to the insured declared value of your vehicle.

3. “My area has the problem of waterlogging in the monsoon. My car was parked where water was logged and on providing ignition, water entered the engine and the ignition is now damaged. I am aware of what is engine protection cover in car insurance and I have opted for this add-on. What is the implication for making the claim?” asks Veer

In case you force-start a car when your car is in water and water enters the engine, this is treated as an intentional act and you will not be eligible to make a claim.   *Standard T&C apply Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.