What is Car Insurance with ‘Engine Protect Cover’?

Did you know that the cost of replacing/repairing an engine affected by water damage is around ₹75,000 to ₹1.5 lakhs, depending on the car’s model and the extent of damage ? But what’s worse is that your existing car insurance may not be covering these costs.^[1]

A typical comprehensive car insurance cover only offers compensation for damages caused by accidents, theft, and natural disasters. It excludes all non-accidental damages. And this is where an engine protection cover comes into play.

It is a special add-on for car insurance that safeguards your vehicle against engine-related damages and saves you from substantial financial burdens. So, let’s explore engine protection cover’s benefits and help you decide if you really need one for your car.

What Is Engine Protection Add-on?

Engine protection cover is an add-on for comprehensive car insurance policies that covers non-accidental damages to a car’s engine. These can include damages caused by water ingression or oil leakages.

The add-on ensures financial protection against the high costs of repairing and replacing the engine or its associated parts, such as pistons and rods. It is particularly beneficial if you live in a flood-prone area or own a high-end vehicle with complex engines.

You can avail of an engine protection add-on by paying an extra premium. However, the cover is only valid for cars less than 5 years old. Also, depending on the insurance provider, you can only make a fixed number of claims in a policy period. 

What Damages Does Engine Protection Add-on Cover Include?

Here is the list of engine protection add-on covers:

• Lubricating oil leak: Lubricant reduces friction between the moving parts and ensures the engine operates smoothly. The engine protection add-on covers any damage caused due to the leakage of lubricating oil.
• Ingression of water: The add-on also covers damages caused by water entering the engine, a common occurrence during floods and heavy rain. 
• Gearbox malfunction: The engine protection add-on covers damages to the gearbox caused due to a malfunctioning engine.
• Hydrostatic lock: Hydrostatic lock occurs when water enters the ignition chamber, preventing the engine from starting. You need professional help to get the water out of the engine, and the add-on covers the expenses.

What Damages Does The Engine Protection Cover Exclude?

There are certain non-accidental damages that you can’t claim under the engine protection add-on. These include:

• Force-start during Hydrostatic lock: Attempt to force-start the engine when it is in hydrostatic lock counts as deliberate damage and leads to rejection of your claim. 
• Damages caused due to accident: The engine protection add-on doesn’t cover damages that result from an accident.
• Regular wear and tear: Damages to the engine that are unavoidable due to regular usage are also not covered.
• Damages covered under warranty: The add-on also does not cover damages already covered under the warranty provided by the manufacturer.

When To Opt For Engine Protection Add-on?

Here are some instances where an engine protection cover can be a lifesaver:

• High-risk areas: If you live in a region prone to floods or water logging during heavy rain, you must get the engine protection add-on to protect against damages from water ingression.
• Premium car: High-end cars have expensive components, and the cost of repairing their engine is also considerably high. So, if you own one, this add-on is a must-have. 
• Peace of mind: Engine protection is essential if you prefer stress-free ownership and want to minimize financial burden due to any possible damages in future.

How To Avail Of An Engine Protection Cover?

You can get engine protection when you purchase a new comprehensive car insurance cover or add it to your existing policy while renewing it. It is important to note that adding this cover to your car insurance will increase its premium. 

If you already have car insurance, follow these steps to get engine protection:

Step 1. Open your insurance provider’s website or mobile app.

Step 2. Select your existing car insurance policy and look for the add-on options.

Step 3. From the available add-ons, pick engine protection.

Step 4. Fill necessary details.

Step 5. Make the payment.

Follow these steps to buy this add-on with a new car insurance policy :

Step 1. Open your insurance provider’s website or insurance marketplace platforms.

Step 2. Head over to the Insurance section and select Motor Insurance.

Step 3. Submit your car number to get available insurance policies.

Step 4. Review your options and select one that suits your needs.

Step 5. Customize your plan by adding an engine protection cover.

Step 6. Complete the documentation and make the payment.

(Note: The exact steps to get an engine protection add-on may vary depending on the insurance provider.)

Key Takeaways

Engine protection cover helps you save money if your car’s engine suffers non-accidental damages, like hydrostatic lock and lubricant leakages. It is an absolute necessity for those living in regions prone to floods and waterlogging after rainfall. Consider using platforms such as PhonePe for a seamless insurance purchase.