It’s a common question for car owners: “Can I use my car insurance to repair my car?” The simple answer is: it depends on the type of damage and your insurance policy. While standard auto insurance is designed to protect you from accidents, it may not cover all types of car repairs.
Typically, your standard car insurance policy, whether it’s liability, collision, or comprehensive, is geared towards covering damages resulting from specific incidents. For example, if you’re in a car accident, collision coverage can help pay for repairs to your vehicle, regardless of fault. Comprehensive coverage usually steps in for damages from events outside of collisions, like theft, vandalism, or natural disasters.
However, what happens when your car breaks down due to mechanical failure or wear and tear? This is where the limitations of standard car insurance become apparent. Most auto insurance policies do not cover repairs that stem from normal vehicle operation, aging, or component failure. Think of issues like engine trouble, transmission problems, or air conditioning malfunctions. These are generally considered maintenance or wear-related issues, not accidents or external events.
When Car Insurance Typically Doesn’t Cover Repairs:
- Mechanical Breakdowns: If your engine, transmission, or other mechanical parts fail due to normal use, your standard car insurance won’t usually cover the repair costs.
- Wear and Tear: Replacing worn-out brake pads, tires, or belts is considered routine maintenance and is not covered by insurance.
- Maintenance Issues: Regular servicing like oil changes, tune-ups, and fluid replacements are the owner’s responsibility and outside the scope of car insurance.
Exploring Mechanical Breakdown Insurance (MBI) as an Option
For those concerned about unexpected repair bills from mechanical failures, there’s a specific type of coverage called Mechanical Breakdown Insurance (MBI). Sometimes referred to as car repair insurance, MBI is designed to cover those breakdowns that standard auto insurance typically excludes.
Several reputable insurance companies offer MBI, each with varying terms, coverage levels, and benefits. Here are a few top providers known for their MBI options:
1. Geico: Best for Budget-Conscious Drivers
Geico is highly rated for customer service and financial strength. Their MBI plans are available for new and leased vehicles less than 15 months old with under 15,000 miles. You can renew Geico’s MBI for up to 7 years or 100,000 miles. After a $250 deductible, Geico MBI covers repair, parts, and labor costs due to mechanical breakdowns.
2. Progressive: Best for Tech-Savvy Drivers
Progressive offers MBI in most states (excluding Indiana and New York). Their mechanical repair insurance includes trip interruption benefits ($100/day) and rental car reimbursement ($60/day). You can choose deductibles from $100 to $500 and payment options (monthly or annual). Progressive allows you to lock in your MBI rate for up to three years.
3. American Family: Best for Family Policies
American Family partners with ForeverCar to provide mechanical breakdown insurance. ForeverCar plans are subscription-based, costing roughly $45 to $75 per month. You can use any repair shop and choose a deductible up to $250 per service. ForeverCar plans, offered through American Family, can cover a wide range of vehicle parts, extending to powertrain coverage up to 225,000 miles. American Family auto policyholders may also receive discounts on ForeverCar plans.
Conclusion: Is Car Insurance Enough for Car Repairs?
While your standard car insurance is crucial for accident-related repairs and damages from unforeseen events, it generally won’t cover mechanical breakdowns or wear and tear. If you want financial protection against unexpected repair bills from mechanical failures, exploring Mechanical Breakdown Insurance (MBI) is a worthwhile step. Companies like Geico, Progressive, and American Family offer comprehensive MBI plans with different features to suit various needs and budgets. Consider your vehicle’s age, mileage, and your risk tolerance when deciding if MBI is the right choice for you. Always compare quotes and coverage details from different providers to find the best option for your situation.
