Which car parts are covered under insurance?

Car parts insurance offers protection for essential components of your vehicle against accidental damage, theft, natural disasters and other unexpected events. A standard Car Parts Insurance Cover included within a comprehensive motor policy generally protects key parts such as the engine, gearbox, electrical systems, lights, windscreen, tyres and other critical assemblies.

Repairs or replacements for these parts are covered under the policy terms and applicable depreciation. Drivers can further strengthen their coverage by opting for add-ons that insure high-value components and help reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Understanding what is included under Car parts insurance ensures accurate claims and helps you stay prepared for costly repairs.

Understanding your car insurance covers parts

There are several types of car insurance plan available with each offering a varied level of protection for your car's different parts. Let’s see the difference between them:

●          Third-party insurance is required by law in India, but it only covers harm done to other people or their belongings. It doesn't cover your car or its parts.

●          Comprehensive car insurance, on the other hand, provides broader protection. It covers your car against a range of risks including accidents, fire, theft, natural disasters, and acts of vandalism.

●          Car Insurance add-on covers: Make a complete policy better by adding specific situations or full-value swaps of parts.

Car Parts Covered by Comprehensive Insurance

Now, let's take a look at which parts of your car are covered by this policy. Parts of cars that insurance will pay for: The following car parts are usually covered by comprehensive car insurance, but it depends on the terms, how much they've lost in value, and the type of damage:

Why Purchase Car Spare Parts Insurance Cover?

Repairing or replacing car parts can be expensive, especially after an accident or a major mechanical failure. A dedicated Car Spare Parts Insurance Cover helps protect you from rising replacement costs for components such as bumpers, headlights, windshields, sensors, engine parts and electronic modules.

This type of cover also helps minimise depreciation when add-ons like zero depreciation are included, ensuring closer-to-full reimbursement for new parts. A Car Spare Parts Insurance cover is particularly valuable for newer vehicles, premium models or cars driven in high-risk environments. Choosing this cover supports long-term vehicle value while reducing the risk of sudden financial strain.

Common Exclusions in Car Parts Insurance 

It's not possible for a policy to cover everything. Unless you choose certain add-ons, the following are usually not covered:

●            Normal wear and tear on parts

●            Problems with electricity or machinery that weren't caused by an accident

●            Damage caused by driving while drunk

●            Not having a legal licence while driving caused damage

●            How much it costs to buy things like engine oil, water, nuts, and bolts

●            Damage caused by normal use, poor maintenance, or carelessness

It is essential to know this difference when you are looking at your car parts insurance.

What role do add-ons play in covering car parts?

You can add riders to your insurance to cover more parts and lower the amount taken out when you file a claim. These are some well-known add-ons: 

●       Depreciation Cover pays the full cost of replacing parts made of plastic, rubber, or fibreglass, without taking into account how much they have lost value over time.

●       Engine Protect Cover: This covers internal parts of the engine, gearbox, crankshaft, pistons, etc., particularly in cases of water ingress during floods.

●       Even if the Tyres and tube aren’t damaged in an accident, Tyre Protection cover will pay  to fix or replace them appropriately.

●       Cover for consumables: Includes reimbursement for smaller components like engine oil, brake fluid, washers, clips, and lubricants used during repairs.

●        Go back to Cover Bill. In case of total loss or theft, you receive the vehicle’s full invoice value, including road tax and registration — not just the depreciated IDV.

Are You Fully Covered? Here’s How to Check

If you want your car parts insurance cover to be as robust as possible, follow these tips:

• Read your policy schedule carefully to see which parts are covered and under what conditions.

• Invest in relevant add-ons, especially if your vehicle is new, high-value, or frequently used.

• Use authorised garages for repairs to ensure compatibility with the insurer's requirements.

• Keep maintenance up to date, as insurers may deny claims if damage is due to neglect.

• Review your coverage annually, especially if the car's value, location, or usage has changed.

Know what’s under the bonnet and the policy

Understanding which car parts are covered under insurance isn’t just about being prepared for emergencies, it’s about making sure the money you’ve invested in your policy truly protects your vehicle in meaningful ways.

Standard car insurance policies provide a good foundation, but choosing the appropriate add-ons can provide full-spectrum protection, particularly for newer or high-end cars.

A few extra rupees on your premium today might save you thousands in unexpected repairs tomorrow. So read your policy, ask the right questions, and drive insured — not just legally, but confidently.

Conclusion

Knowing which components are protected under your motor insurance policy helps prevent surprises during claims and supports quicker, smoother settlements. While a standard comprehensive plan covers essential parts, choosing the right add-ons enhances protection for high-value components and reduces depreciation-based deductions.

As vehicles become more advanced, the cost of repairs and replacements continues to rise, making thoughtful coverage essential. Reviewing your policy regularly and selecting suitable add-ons ensures complete financial protection and peace of mind every time you drive.

FAQs

1)   Which damages are not included in a car insurance claim?

Damages caused by regular wear and tear, mechanical or electrical breakdowns, driving under the influence, illegal usage, racing, unauthorised modifications or expired policies are not covered. Consequential losses and exclusions listed in policy terms also apply.

2)   Is a clutch plate covered under insurance?

A clutch plate is considered a wear-and-tear item, so it is not covered under a standard motor policy. If the clutch system is damaged due to an accident, relevant components may be covered depending on the insurer’s assessment.

3)   Does car insurance cover bumper damage?

Yes. Comprehensive insurance covers bumper damage resulting from accidents, collisions or external impacts. Depreciation may apply unless you have a zero-depreciation add-on. Damage due to negligence or illegal use may be excluded.

4)   Do car insurance policies cover routine maintenance costs?

No. Routine maintenance such as fluid changes, filter replacements, brake servicing and general upkeep are not covered. Insurance is intended for accidental losses, not regular maintenance.

5)   Are spare parts covered under a standard car insurance policy?

Yes. Comprehensive insurance covers damage to spare parts caused by accidents, theft, fire, or natural disasters. Depreciation applies unless add-ons like zero depreciation or a consumables cover are included.

6)   Are headlights and taillights covered under my policy?

Yes. These are covered under comprehensive insurance if damaged due to accidents or external impacts. Depreciation may be deducted unless a zero-depreciation add-on is active.

7)   Do policies cover damage to sunroofs or panoramic roofs?

Yes. Comprehensive policies typically include damage to sunroofs or panoramic roofs caused by impact, falling objects or natural disasters. Glass-specific add-ons can further reduce repair costs.