Does full coverage cover your engine blowing up?

Does Car Insurance Cover Engine Failure?

Generally, no. A typical car insurance policy only covers repairs if they’re related to an accident.

You likely won’t be covered if your engine simply has a mechanical failure or other malfunction.

The only exceptions are:

• You have special mechanical breakdown insurance coverage.
• You can trace the problem back to a recent accident.
• The damage is covered under your car’s warranty.

Table of contents

• Typical car insurance only covers damage after an incident
• Does gap insurance pay in cases of mechanical breakdown?
• Your warranty or mechanical breakdown coverage can pay for breakdowns

Typical car insurance only covers damage after an incident

In most cases, car insurance — even full coverage — won’t cover car repairs due to mechanical breakdown or wear and tear.

There are four common types of coverage that pay for the repair of your car, and none pay for mechanical problems, unfortunately.

Here’s what they do cover:

• Collision: Pays to repair your car after a crash, regardless of who was at fault
• Comprehensive: Pays to repair car damage that’s not related to a car accident, such as falling rocks or a house fire
• Liability coverage: Pays to repair your car when you are at fault for a crash (if the other driver was at fault, their coverage would pay to repair your car)
• Uninsured motorist: Pays for repairs to your car after a crash if the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance

One thing they all have in common is that they only go into effect if your car was damaged due to an external cause. None of them cover engine damage due to normal wear and tear.

If you’re having trouble with your car’s engine and can demonstrate that a crash or other specific incident was the cause, you can likely get the damage repaired under your insurance. Otherwise, you’ll be responsible for the bill yourself.

Also, collision, comprehensive and uninsured motorist (in 28 states) are optional auto insurance coverages, so it’s unlikely you have them if you opted for the legal minimum level of insurance.

Other insurance, such as personal injury protection (PIP) and liability coverage for bodily injury, don’t relate to your car at all and will never pay for mechanical failure.

Does gap insurance pay in cases of mechanical breakdown?

The short answer is no, gap insurance does not pay for a mechanical breakdown like a seized engine or broken transmission.

Gap insurance pays the difference between your car’s value and what you owe on it if the vehicle is totaled in a crash or stolen.

It’s reasonable to conclude that you might be able to make a claim to your gap coverage in cases of a blown engine or other total breakdown, especially if a repair costs more than your car’s value.

However, gap insurance only goes into effect if the damage is due to a specific incident, such as a crash. You won’t be able to make a claim if your car engine simply breaks down, no matter how serious the problem.

Your warranty or mechanical breakdown coverage can pay for breakdowns

There are two types of coverage for repairs to your car, even if it isn’t the result of a crash or other damage. However, neither is included in a typical auto insurance policy.

The first isn’t insurance at all but your car’s warranty. If your vehicle is relatively new (around 3–6 years old or newer), you likely have a warranty that pays for mechanical issues for a certain amount of time or distance driven. If you opted for an extended warranty, you’re likely covered for a blown engine.

Many vehicle warranties have two parts:

• The bumper-to-bumper warranty, which includes every part of your vehicle
• The power train warranty, which only covers the parts that make your car move

Your power train warranty is longer than your bumper-to-bumper coverage and includes the engine, transmission, gears and axles.

The second is related and may cover the cost to repair engine failure or any other mechanical problem: mechanical breakdown coverage, also called MBI or mechanical failure insurance.

MBI functions very similarly to an extended warranty. It covers any kind of breakdown, such as a blown motor or a transmission problem. But, unlike an extended warranty, you purchase MBI from an insurance company.

How to choose between an extended warranty and MBI

If you’re concerned about a seized engine or other mechanical failure and are considering an extended warranty or MBI, it can be hard to decide which one is right for you. They’re similar, but each has advantages. For example, mechanical breakdown insurance is cheaper and provides more flexibility when it comes to mechanics. But an extended warranty is available for a broader range of vehicles.

Does full coverage cover your engine blowing up?

Unless you have optional mechanical breakdown insurance on your policy, you will likely not have coverage if your engine blows up due to mechanical failure.

Will full coverage cover a blown engine?

Whether it’s routine maintenance, a mechanical failure or a blown engine, car insurance will most likely not cover the costs of repairing or replacing your vehicle. Hopefully, your car keeps running smoothly, but plan to pay out of pocket for routine maintenance or for a mechanic if your car breaks down.

What happens if the engine blows on a financed car?

Regardless of the shape of the vehicle, you still owe the finance company money and are obligated to make payments or else they can repossess the vehicle and get a deficiency judgment against you for the difference between what the vehicle sells for at auction (with a blow engine) and the balance of your loan.

Is a blown engine considered totaled?

Although a car can be totaled due to mechanical failure, when damage is extensive enough that repair costs exceed its value, your insurance will not pay if the cause is wear and tear or a mechanical issue.

Does gap insurance cover if your engine blows?

GAP insurance does not apply in the event of engine failure, mechanical malfunctions, owner death, or in cases where extended warranty coverage conflicts.

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41 related questions found

Does car insurance cover explosion?

Comprehensive covers events such as fire, falling objects, missiles, explosion, earthquake, windstorm, hail, flood, vandalism, riot, or contact with animals such as birds or deer. It will also pay to repair your windshield if it is cracked or shattered.

What to do with a car with a blown engine?

You can sell your car, blown motor and all, to a junkyard, and they’ll handle the hard part for you. There are two options when you sell your car to a junkyard. You can either sell it as is, and they will use the car for parts, or you can sell it as scrap.

Is it worth fixing a blown engine?

Your engine is a network of connected parts and systems. When an engine faces severe damage, it can quickly spread from one component to the next. Repairing your engine at this stage is often not an option. Instead, you will need to explore your replacement options—for your engine or your vehicle.

Does full coverage replace a totaled car?

Comprehensive coverage and collision coverage help pay to replace a totaled vehicle. These two separate coverages are typically required on your car insurance policy if you’re leasing or financing your vehicle. If your car is paid off, they’re optional.

How much is my car worth with a blown engine?

The value of a vehicle with engine problems depends on numerous factors including the year, make, model, mileage, condition, location, and more. If your engine blows up on you and you want to sell it, we can pay anywhere from $500 to $10,000 or more depending on what kind of car you have.

Can you trade in a financed car with a blown engine?

Trade In Car With Bad Engine

Most local dealers will give you very low trade-in values on a car with damage, and much lower if it isn’t running. Since used car dealers sell cars in pristine condition, they will have to sink large amounts of money in order to flip your car.

What happens if your car blows up and you still owe money on?

Here’s the bad news: if you have a loan or lease out on a totaled car, you’re still responsible for paying off the remaining balance. Usually, the insurer pays the lender or leaseholder first and gives you the rest of the settlement money if there’s any leftover.

How to pay for a blown engine?

Title Loans: A title loan is a secured loan where a borrower will use their car’s title as collateral for emergency funding. Title loans can be a helpful resource to pay for a blown engine, but you will not be able to secure a loan against a vehicle that is not currently in working condition.

What damage does full coverage cover?

So what does full coverage car insurance cover? In most cases, it includes liability, comprehensive, and collision coverage. Collision and comprehensive will protect you and your vehicle if you get into an accident. If you’re found at fault for an accident.

What is the average payout for a totaled car?

If your car is a total loss, insurers will offer you a payout equal to your car’s fair market value prior to the accident damage. If you opt to keep your car, however, your insurer will subtract the salvage price from your totaled car’s value.

Can I use my insurance to fix my engine?

Does car insurance cover engine failure? No. Even if you have “full coverage” with Comprehensive and Collision, your car insurance won’t pay for engine failure not caused by a covered claim. For this type of coverage you’ll need a warranty on your vehicle or a specific car repair insurance policy.

Can you ask for more money when your car is totaled?

In some cases, you may get more insurance money for a totaled car than for repairs. In addition, it is possible to negotiate a higher settlement by providing evidence that your car was worth more than the insurance company’s initial valuation.

Does full coverage cover car repairs?

Yes, auto insurance companies include particular non-accident repairs for a comprehensive car insurance policy.

What happens when your car is totaled but still drivable?

Rebuilt/Reconstructed Title: Once a salvage vehicle has been repaired and inspected, the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will issue a “rebuilt” or “reconstructed” title for the vehicle. Once you obtain this, you can legally drive the vehicle.

Will insurance cover if your engine blows up?

Typically, unless the engine failure was caused by an accident, your insurance won’t pay for repairs. However, there are options for coverage. Mechanical breakdown insurance, for example, can come into play if you’ve got a dead engine and are looking for financial help in fixing it.

How much does it cost to fix a blown engine?

On average, the cost of replacing an engine can range from $2,500 to $5,000 or more, depending on these factors.

How long will a car last after engine replacement?

So what can you expect when you’re replacing it with a rebuilt engine? Though a rebuilt engine may not always have the same lifespan as the original, it can last for upwards of 100,000 miles. This can double the overall lifespan of your vehicle, and with regular maintenance, you can help it last even longer.

What happens if my car blew up and I still owe money?

If your car is totaled by a falling tree branch, fire, or other non-collision accident, your comprehensive coverage will likely cover it. But your insurer doesn’t care about the balance of your loan. Your total-loss insurance payout will be for your car’s ACV only.

Is it worth replacing a blown engine?

Replacing an engine, or repowering, is a great way to extend a vehicle’s life without the expense of buying a new one. Although engine replacements can be expensive, it’s usually cheaper to get one while keeping an existing vehicle. If done correctly, they’re a worthy investment.

Will a car drive if the engine is blown?

Yes, a car with a busted engine can still run on most occasions. In the event of a head gasket failure, the engine will still crank but expect oil to leak. Overheating is also a common cause for a blown engine. In this case, you can cool down the engine first, then try to start and run it for short distances only.

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Does Car Insurance Cover a Blown Engine?

Hey there, friend! If you’re reading this, chances are you’re staring at your car, wondering how on earth you’re going to deal with a blown engine and whether your car insurance will come to the rescue. Trust me, I’ve been there—heart sinking, wallet trembling, and a million questions racing through my mind. A blown engine is no small issue. It’s one of the most expensive repairs a car owner can face, often costing thousands of dollars. So, naturally, you’re hoping your insurance policy has your back. But does it? Let’s sit down together and figure this out, step by step, as I share everything I’ve learned from diving deep into this topic. My goal is to make this as clear as possible, so you can feel confident about what’s covered, what’s not, and what your next steps should be.

Table of Contents

What Does It Mean to Have a Blown Engine?

Before we talk about insurance, let’s get on the same page about what a “blown engine” actually is. Picture your car’s engine as its heart. It’s the powerhouse that keeps everything moving. A blown engine happens when that heart fails—big time. It could be due to overheating, a lack of oil, a broken piston, or even a catastrophic failure like a cracked engine block. When this happens, your car might not start, make weird noises, or even spew smoke. It’s every driver’s nightmare.

I remember when my buddy’s old sedan gave out on him. He ignored an oil leak for too long, and one day, the engine just seized up. He described it as hearing a loud bang, followed by silence. That’s a blown engine, and it’s not something you can fix with a quick trip to the auto parts store. Repairs can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000, depending on the car. Sometimes, it’s cheaper to replace the whole vehicle. So, with stakes this high, you’re probably wondering if your insurance can help cover the cost. Let’s dig in.

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Understanding Car Insurance Coverage

Car insurance isn’t a one-size-fits-all deal. Policies vary, and what’s covered depends on the type of insurance you have. Most people in the USA have a mix of coverage types, like liability, collision, and comprehensive. But there are also add-ons like mechanical breakdown insurance or roadside assistance that might come into play. To figure out if a blown engine is covered, we need to break down the main types of coverage and see how they apply.

When I first started looking into this, I was surprised by how much the fine print matters. Your policy is like a contract, and it spells out exactly what’s covered and what’s not. The tricky part? A blown engine could be covered in some cases but not in others, depending on what caused it. Let’s look at the most common types of car insurance and how they relate to engine failure.

Liability Coverage

Liability coverage is the bare minimum most states require. It covers damage you cause to other people or their property in an accident. For example, if you rear-end someone and their car needs repairs, liability kicks in. But here’s the catch: liability is all about the other guy. It doesn’t cover damage to your own car, including a blown engine.

I learned this the hard way when I was a new driver. I thought my basic liability policy would help when my car started acting up after a minor fender-bender. Nope. Liability is strictly for covering others, so if your engine blows, this part of your policy won’t help.

Collision Coverage

Collision coverage steps in when your car is damaged in an accident, whether you hit another car, a tree, or even a pothole. This is where things get interesting for a blown engine. If your engine failure is directly tied to a crash—like if you smash into something and the impact damages the engine—collision coverage might cover the repair.

Here’s an example from my own experience. A friend of mine hit a massive pothole that caused his car to jolt so hard it damaged the engine’s internals. His collision coverage helped pay for the repairs because the damage was a direct result of the impact. But if your engine blows because of wear and tear or neglect, collision coverage won’t apply. It’s all about the cause of the damage.

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Comprehensive Coverage

Comprehensive coverage is for non-collision events, like theft, vandalism, or natural disasters. Think of things like a tree falling on your car or a flood damaging your vehicle. Could this cover a blown engine? Maybe, but only in rare cases.

For instance, if a fire or flood directly causes your engine to fail, comprehensive coverage could kick in. I read about a case where someone’s car was caught in a wildfire, and the extreme heat caused the engine to seize. Their comprehensive policy covered it. But if your engine blows because of mechanical failure or poor maintenance, comprehensive won’t help. It’s not designed for that.

Mechanical Breakdown Insurance

Now, here’s where things get a bit more hopeful. Mechanical breakdown insurance (MBI) is an optional add-on some insurance companies offer. It’s specifically designed to cover repairs for mechanical failures, including things like a blown engine. When I first heard about MBI, I thought it sounded like a lifesaver. And it can be—but there’s a catch.

MBI usually only covers repairs that aren’t caused by neglect or lack of maintenance. So, if your engine blows because you didn’t change the oil for two years, you’re probably out of luck. But if the failure is due to a sudden, unexpected issue, MBI might cover it. The downside? Not all insurers offer MBI, and it’s not available in every state. Plus, it often comes with a deductible and strict rules about maintenance records. I always tell my friends to keep those oil change receipts!

Manufacturer’s Warranty or Extended Warranty

Okay, this isn’t technically insurance, but it’s worth mentioning. If your car is still under the manufacturer’s warranty (usually 3 years or 36,000 miles), a blown engine might be covered, especially if it’s a defect. Extended warranties can also help, but they often have similar rules to MBI—you need to prove you’ve maintained the car properly.

I had a neighbor whose car’s engine failed just before the warranty expired. The dealership replaced it for free because it was a manufacturing issue. If your car is newish, check your warranty before panicking about insurance.

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What Causes a Blown Engine?

To understand whether insurance will cover your blown engine, you need to know what caused it. Insurance companies are picky about this. They’ll investigate the cause to decide if it’s covered under your policy. Here are some common reasons engines fail:

• Overheating: This happens when your cooling system fails, often due to a leak or a broken radiator. I’ve seen cars overheat on hot summer days when the AC is cranked up.
• Lack of Oil: Oil is like blood for your engine. Without it, parts grind together and break. Forgetting oil changes is a common culprit.
• Mechanical Failure: Sometimes, a part like a piston or valve just breaks, even with good maintenance.
• Accident Damage: A crash or impact can damage the engine directly.
• External Events: Things like floods, fires, or debris hitting your car can cause engine failure.

When my cousin’s engine blew, it was because he ignored a warning light about low oil pressure. The insurance company denied his claim because it was considered neglect. Knowing the cause is key to figuring out if you’re covered.

When Does Insurance Cover a Blown Engine?

Let’s break this down with a simple table to make it crystal clear. Here’s when your insurance might (or might not) cover a blown engine:

This table helped me wrap my head around the issue when I was researching for a friend. The big takeaway? Insurance is more likely to cover a blown engine if the damage comes from an external event (like a crash or fire) rather than something you could’ve prevented, like skipping oil changes.

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What to Do If Your Engine Blows

If you’re dealing with a blown engine right now, don’t panic. I’ve been through this process, and here’s what I’d do if I were sitting next to you:

1. Diagnose the Problem: Take your car to a trusted mechanic to confirm it’s a blown engine and find out the cause. Get a written report if possible.
2. Check Your Policy: Pull out your insurance policy and look for collision, comprehensive, or MBI coverage. If you’re not sure, call your insurance agent. They can walk you through it.
3. File a Claim (If Applicable): If the cause is covered (like an accident or fire), file a claim with your insurer. Be ready to provide details about what happened.
4. Check Your Warranty: If your car is under warranty, contact the dealership or manufacturer. They might cover the repair.
5. Keep Maintenance Records: If you have MBI or are claiming under a warranty, you’ll need proof you’ve taken care of your car.
6. Get Quotes for Repairs: Even if insurance doesn’t cover it, shop around for repair quotes. Some shops are more affordable than others.

When my friend’s engine failed, he didn’t realize his comprehensive coverage would help because a falling branch had damaged the engine during a storm. Filing the claim saved him thousands. So, don’t assume you’re out of luck—check every angle.

How to Prevent a Blown Engine

Prevention is better than dealing with a blown engine, trust me. After seeing a few friends go through this, I’ve learned some simple ways to keep your engine happy:

• Regular Oil Changes: Stick to your car’s recommended oil change schedule. It’s usually every 5,000–7,500 miles.
• Monitor Warning Lights: If your check engine light or oil pressure warning comes on, don’t ignore it. Get it checked right away.
• Check Coolant Levels: Make sure your radiator has enough coolant, especially in hot weather.
• Drive Smart: Avoid aggressive driving that puts extra stress on your engine.
• Get Regular Tune-Ups: A yearly tune-up can catch small problems before they turn into big ones.

I started setting reminders on my phone for oil changes after forgetting one too many times. It’s a small habit that can save you a huge headache.

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What If Insurance Doesn’t Cover It?

If your insurance won’t cover the blown engine, you’re not out of options. Here’s what I’d suggest based on my own research and talking to others who’ve been in this spot:

• Shop Around for Repairs: Some mechanics offer payment plans or refurbished engines, which are cheaper than new ones.
• Consider a Used Car: If repairs cost more than the car’s worth, it might be time to look for a new ride.
• Check for Recalls: Sometimes, engine issues are tied to manufacturing defects. Check if your car has any open recalls.
• Save for Emergencies: After my cousin’s engine fiasco, I started putting a little money aside each month for car repairs. It’s a lifesaver.

Conclusion

So, does car insurance cover a blown engine? The answer, as you’ve probably guessed by now, is: it depends. If your engine fails because of an accident, fire, or flood, your collision or comprehensive coverage might save the day. If you have mechanical breakdown insurance, you could be covered for sudden failures, as long as you’ve kept up with maintenance. But if the cause is wear and tear or neglect, you’re likely on your own. I’ve seen how stressful this situation can be, but knowing your policy and taking steps to prevent engine issues can make all the difference.

I hope this article has cleared things up for you, just like it did for me when I was piecing together the puzzle. A blown engine is a tough pill to swallow, but with the right information, you can make smart decisions and get back on the road. If you’re dealing with this right now, take a deep breath, grab your insurance policy, and start exploring your options. You’ve got this!

Frequently Asked Questions

Does car insurance cover engine failure due to overheating?

Not usually. Overheating is often seen as a maintenance issue, so most standard policies (like collision or comprehensive) won’t cover it. However, if you have mechanical breakdown insurance and can prove you maintained the car, you might have a shot. Always check with your insurer.

Can I claim a blown engine under my warranty?

Yes, if your car is still under the manufacturer’s or an extended warranty. Warranties often cover defects, but you’ll need to show you followed the maintenance schedule. Contact your dealership to confirm.

What if my engine blows because of a crash?

If a crash directly causes the engine damage, your collision coverage should kick in. Make sure to document the accident and get a mechanic’s report to support your claim.

Is mechanical breakdown insurance worth it?

It depends. If you drive an older car or want peace of mind for major repairs like a blown engine, it can be a good investment. But it’s not cheap, and you need to keep up with maintenance. I’d compare costs and coverage before deciding.

How can I tell if my engine is blown?

Signs include loud noises (like banging or knocking), smoke from the hood, the car not starting, or a sudden loss of power. If you suspect a blown engine, get it checked by a mechanic right away. Don’t try to drive it!

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Does Car Insurance Cover a Blown Engine?