When does auto insurance cover a clutch replacement?

We know that understanding auto insurance requirements and figuring out what is and isn’t covered by your policy can be overwhelming. For example, does auto insurance cover clutch replacement?

If trying to find out the answer to this question seems daunting, don’t worry. You’ve come to the right place.

Take a few minutes to read through this article to find out whether auto insurance covers clutch replacement, in what circumstances, whether you can buy clutch insurance, and more.

When you’re looking for auto insurance that covers clutch replacement, the best way to find affordable rates is to shop around. You can get started by using your ZIP code in our tool to get a free quote right now. 

Will your auto insurance cover clutch replacement?

When answering the question, “does insurance cover clutch replacement?” the key is knowing how your clutch was damaged or why it needs to be replaced.

If your clutch sustained damage due to a covered incident like an accident or severe weather damage, replacement might be covered, depending on your policy.

However, if you need to replace your clutch as the result of one of the following, it may not be covered:

• Wear and tear
• Overheating
• Oil in or on the clutch

These, along with water in the clutch, are the most common reasons drivers need to replace a vehicle clutch. Insurance may cover water in the clutch if it results from flooding or some other weather incident. But your insurance probably won’t cover the other three.

Why? Auto insurance rarely (if ever) covers damages that result from normal wear and tear or poor vehicle maintenance.

Insurance companies expect you as the driver to take responsibility for maintaining your vehicle. The same rules generally apply to dealer warranties, which similarly do not cover wear and tear like clutch failure.

What kind of auto insurance do you need for clutch replacement coverage?

So how much auto insurance do you need to have coverage for a clutch replacement?

A policy that includes comprehensive and collision insurance is your best bet for ensuring you have coverage to replace your clutch after an accident, severe weather incident, or other covered events.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PiYyLELU5l4

Collision coverage provides financial protection if you’re in an auto collision. This means if your clutch is damaged in a collision, generally with another car, this insurance will likely cover the replacement (after you’ve met your deductible).

If your clutch is damaged due to severe weather, vandalism, fire, etc., comprehensive coverage will apply when you’re ready to file a claim for replacement.

You can also ask your insurance company about mechanical breakdown insurance (MBI). MBI is an add-on that covers mechanical and electrical breakdowns not already covered by collision or comprehensive insurance. This can include your brakes, transmission, and possibly your clutch.

If you decide to ask whether your insurance company offers MBI, make sure to find out what is covered and any limitations regarding the types of breakdowns.

Should you file a claim for clutch replacement?

The average clutch replacement cost is between $1,200 and $1,400, which we know can be cost-prohibitive. However, filing a claim only makes sense if the damage results from one of the covered circumstances described in the previous section.

The Bottom Line: Does auto insurance cover clutch replacement?

Clutch damage typically occurs because of general wear and tear or poor vehicle maintenance. While your clutch may last 100,000 miles, depending on where you live and how you drive, you will likely need to replace it at some point, simply because of continual use.

Standard coverage (collision, comprehensive, etc.) won’t cover replacement due to wear and tear or poor maintenance. However, if you have collision and comprehensive insurance and need to replace your clutch due to an accident or unexpected weather, your coverage may apply.

If you’re still looking for options for clutch replacement after a non-covered incident, you can ask your auto insurance company about MBI. MBI may provide some coverage, depending on the circumstances and your insurance company’s requirements.

If you’re ready to start saving on auto insurance that covers clutch replacement, get a free quote today by entering your ZIP code in the tool on this page.

1. https://www.cashcarsbuyer.com/clutch-replacement-cost/