Understanding what your car insurance in Little Rock does—and doesn’t—cover is essential for every vehicle owner in Little Rock. While most policies clearly handle accident-related repairs, many drivers wonder: Are non-accident repairs covered by car insurance?
In this article, we break down what counts as non-accident repairs, how insurance applies, and what coverage options are available to help you avoid surprise expenses.
What Are Non-Accident Repairs?
Non-accident repairs refer to regular maintenance or issues caused by wear and tear—not by a collision or sudden event. These include:
- Oil changes
- Brake pad replacements
- Tire rotations
- Mechanical repairs due to aging parts (e.g., engine or transmission)
These are routine responsibilities of car ownership. Ignoring them can lead to major damage, reduced vehicle safety, and higher costs down the road.
Are Non-Accident Repairs Covered by Car Insurance?
In most cases, standard car insurance policies in Little Rock do not cover non-accident repairs. This includes:
- General maintenance
- Mechanical failures from wear and tear
- Repairs due to aging components (like a dead battery or worn-out alternator)
However, there are some exceptions through specialized coverage options:
Comprehensive Coverage
Covers non-collision incidents such as theft, vandalism, fire, or weather-related damage. It does not cover mechanical breakdowns.
Mechanical Breakdown Insurance (MBI)
Available through some insurers, MBI covers repairs for unexpected mechanical issues—similar to an extended warranty. Think engine failure, transmission problems, or faulty electronics. It’s usually offered for newer vehicles and must be added separately.
Extended Warranties
Though not insurance, these are service contracts offered by manufacturers or third parties. They can cover certain repairs after your factory warranty expires, including non-accident mechanical issues.
How to Check if You’re Covered
To find out whether your current policy includes coverage for non-accident repairs:
- Review Your Car Insurance Policy
Look for details on coverage types like comprehensive or mechanical breakdown insurance. - Speak with a Local Insurance Agent
If you’re unsure, reach out to a trusted provider like G&G Independent Insurance. They can walk you through your current coverage and options for added protection. - Consider Additional Coverage
If your policy doesn’t include what you need, you may want to add MBI or explore extended warranties for peace of mind.
Understanding Your Coverage Options
Knowing what each type of insurance includes helps you make smarter choices:
- Liability Insurance: Covers injury or damage to others when you’re at fault. Does not cover your vehicle’s repairs.
- Collision Coverage: Pays for your vehicle’s damage from accidents, regardless of fault.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Covers non-collision incidents (theft, fire, storm damage), but not routine maintenance or wear-and-tear repairs.
- Mechanical Breakdown Insurance (MBI): Optional add-on that covers specific non-accident mechanical failures.
- Extended Warranties: May cover repairs not included in insurance, depending on the provider and policy terms.
Final Thoughts
Non-accident repairs aren’t usually covered by standard auto insurance, but that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. From mechanical breakdown insurance to extended warranties, there are ways to protect yourself from unexpected repair bills.
Not sure what your current policy includes? Talk to a local expert at G&G Independent Insurance to ensure you have the right protection in place.
Need Help?
Find out if your car insurance covers non-accident repairs—get your policy reviewed today. Serving drivers throughout Little Rock, AR, G&G helps you understand your options and avoid costly surprises.
