When purchasing car insurance, a standard policy might not be enough to cover all potential risks and damages. To enhance protection, insurers offer various add-on covers that cater to specific needs and provide extra financial security. Choosing the right add-ons can save you from hefty expenses in case of accidents, breakdowns, or other unforeseen situations. In this article, we will explore the most valuable add-on car insurance covers you should consider.

 

Why Add-On Covers Are Important

Add-on covers are additional features you can include in your comprehensive car insurance policy. While they increase the premium slightly, they offer:

• Enhanced Financial Protection: Covers specific scenarios not included in standard policies.
• Peace of Mind: Reduces out-of-pocket expenses in emergencies.
• Customization: Tailored options based on your driving habits and vehicle type.

Pro Tip: Assess your car’s value, usage, and risk factors before selecting add-ons to ensure maximum benefit.

 

Essential Add-On Car Insurance Covers

Here are the most useful add-ons that can make a significant difference when an unexpected situation arises:

 

1. Zero Depreciation Cover

This add-on ensures that you receive the full claim amount without deducting the depreciation of car parts. It’s especially valuable for new and luxury cars.

• Why You Need It:
  • Covers full cost of parts like bumper, bonnet, and side mirrors.
  • Avoids depreciation deductions during claim settlement.
• Ideal For:
  • New cars (up to 5 years old).
  • High-end or frequently used vehicles.
• Cost: 15-20% higher premium compared to standard coverage.
• Pro Tip: Most insurers allow only two zero-depreciation claims per policy term.

 

2. Roadside Assistance Cover

Breakdowns can happen anytime and anywhere. Roadside assistance ensures that you receive immediate help when stranded.

• What It Includes:
  • Towing service to the nearest garage.
  • On-site repair for minor issues like a flat tyre or dead battery.
  • Fuel delivery if you run out of petrol or diesel.
  • Help in case of key loss or lockout.
• Ideal For:
  • Long-distance travelers.
  • Those who drive frequently through remote areas.
• Cost: Around ₹1,000 to ₹2,000 annually.
• Pro Tip: Check the geographical limits of the service before opting.

 

3. Engine Protection Cover

This add-on covers damage to the engine due to water ingression, oil leakage, or hydrostatic lock. Regular comprehensive policies usually exclude these damages.

• Why You Need It:
  • Monsoons can lead to water entering the engine, causing severe damage.
  • Cost of engine repair or replacement is significantly high.
• Ideal For:
  • Cars used in flood-prone areas.
  • Vehicles with expensive or high-capacity engines.
• Cost: Additional 5-10% on the base premium.
• Pro Tip: Highly recommended if your car has a turbocharged engine.

 

4. Return to Invoice (RTI) Cover

If your car is stolen or completely damaged, RTI ensures you receive the invoice value of the car, including road tax and registration charges.

• Why You Need It:
  • Compensates for the full value of the car, not just the depreciated amount.
  • Best for new cars or luxury vehicles.
• Ideal For:
  • Cars up to 3 years old.
  • High-value or premium cars.
• Cost: 10-20% additional premium.
• Pro Tip: Opt for RTI if your car’s market value depreciates rapidly.

 

5. No Claim Bonus (NCB) Protection

NCB is a reward for not making any claims during the policy term. However, a single claim can reset the accumulated bonus to zero. This add-on protects your bonus even after a claim.

• Why You Need It:
  • Retains your accumulated NCB despite making a claim.
  • Reduces the next renewal premium.
• Ideal For:
  • Drivers with a clean driving record.
  • Cars that are rarely driven but still insured.
• Cost: An additional 5-8% of the premium.
• Pro Tip: Ideal for those with a 50% NCB accumulation.

 

6. Consumables Cover

Covers the cost of items like engine oil, brake fluid, nuts, bolts, and other small parts that are not covered in standard policies.

• Why You Need It:
  • Regular policies don’t cover these minor but essential components.
  • Significantly reduces out-of-pocket expenses during repairs.
• Ideal For:
  • New cars that undergo regular maintenance.
  • Luxury vehicles where consumable costs are higher.
• Cost: Slightly higher premium, usually 3-5%.
• Pro Tip: Ideal for vehicles with expensive service costs.

 

7. Personal Accident Cover for Passengers

While most policies cover the driver, this add-on ensures financial protection for passengers in case of accidents.

• Why You Need It:
  • Offers compensation for medical expenses and permanent disability.
  • Covers co-passengers as well.
• Ideal For:
  • Family cars or vehicles used for carpooling.
• Cost: Affordable, usually around ₹500 to ₹1,000 per annum.
• Pro Tip: Choose this cover if you often drive with family or friends.

 

8. Tyre Protection Cover

Tyres are prone to damage from potholes, sharp objects, and uneven roads. This add-on covers the cost of repair or replacement.

• Why You Need It:
  • Covers tyre bursts, cuts, and bulges.
  • Includes wheel alignment and balancing costs.
• Ideal For:
  • SUVs and cars frequently driven on rough terrain.
• Cost: Approximately 2-3% of the premium.
• Pro Tip: Opt for this cover if your car has expensive or custom tyres.

 

Final Thoughts

Add-on covers can significantly enhance your car insurance policy by addressing specific risks not covered under a standard plan. While they increase the overall premium, the financial protection they offer during emergencies often justifies the cost.

Choosing the right add-ons depends on factors like your car’s age, driving conditions, and personal preferences. While zero depreciation and roadside assistance are essential for most drivers, others like engine protection and tyre cover are beneficial in specific scenarios.

Before finalizing your policy, assess your driving habits, the car’s value, and potential risks. Investing in the right add-ons today can save you from unexpected expenses tomorrow.