Does Car Insurance Cover Repairs?

22nd Aug 2022

It’s a question every driver eventually asks: “Does car insurance cover repairs?” If you’re facing unexpected damage or issues with your car, you’ll want to know: will car insurance cover repairs, or will you have to pay the bill yourself?

The good news is that your car insurance might help — but exactly what’s covered depends on the type of policy you have and the circumstances of the damage.

What Types of Car Insurance Cover Repairs?

Car insurance in the UK comes in several varieties. Each offers a different level of protection, so it’s important to know where you stand.

Comprehensive Insurance

If you want the broadest cover available, comprehensive insurance is your best bet. Here’s what it usually includes:

Repairs for damage from collisions — even if the accident was your fault
Cover for fire, theft, and vandalism
Protection for damage caused by animals
Repairs after non-fault accidents

However, can car insurance cover repairs in every situation? Not quite. Each policy has its own terms and exclusions, so it’s important to read the small print before assuming you’re fully protected.

Third-Party Only

This is the minimum insurance legally required to drive in the UK. It’s designed to protect others if you cause an accident. However, it’s important to note:

It won’t pay for repairs to your own car
No cover for theft or fire damage
Any repairs to your vehicle would need to be paid for privately

So, if you’re wondering, “does car insurance cover repairs?” — the answer under third-party only is, unfortunately, no.

Third-Party, Fire & Theft

This level of cover sits between basic third-party and comprehensive. It includes:

Cover if your car is stolen or damaged by fire
No cover for collision damage to your own vehicle

If you’re looking for help with accident-related repairs, this policy won’t provide it.

Silver car caught on fire following a car accident.

What Car Insurance Usually Doesn’t Cover

Even comprehensive policies have limits. Typically, your car insurance will not pay for:

Mechanical breakdowns or wear and tear (e.g. clutch failure, engine wear)
Damage due to neglect or poor maintenance
Pre-existing damage that was already on the car when you took out your policy
Minor scratches or dents that fall under your excess amount

So, while “will car insurance cover repairs” is a fair question, it’s vital to remember insurers focus on accidental and unexpected damage — not routine costs of keeping your car running.

What to Do Before You Book Repairs

If you’re involved in an incident and believe your car will require repairs, it’s essential to proceed carefully to avoid complications with your insurance claim. Here’s how to protect your rights and ensure your costs are covered where possible:

Call your insurer straight away
Wait for them to authorise an inspection or claims assessor visit
Don’t book repairs until you get the green light from your insurer

Checking with your insurer at this stage will help avoid unexpected expenses and ensure you remain eligible for the cover your policy provides.

Are Minor Repairs or Cosmetic Damage Covered?

Car insurance can sometimes cover cosmetic repairs, but it’s often not worth claiming unless the damage is significant. This is because you’ll need to pay your excess—the part of any claim you must cover yourself—and making a claim could reduce your no-claims bonus and increase your future premiums. For example, if repairs cost £300 but your excess is £250, you’d only save £50, and your insurance costs might rise at renewal.

Man inspecting scratched car bumper for insurance or repair claim opportunity.

Will My Insurance Cover Repairs After Parts Fail?

A key point many drivers overlook is that car insurance doesn’t cover mechanical breakdowns or worn-out parts. For instance:

Engine failure due to age isn’t covered
A failing gearbox caused by wear and tear isn’t an insurance matter

Instead, this is where warranties come into play. If you’re buying a used car, a good warranty can protect you against unexpected repair costs. At Bob Davies Car Sales, we offer quality used cars so you can drive away with peace of mind.

How Much Will My Insurance Pay Toward Repairs?

Even if your policy covers repairs, insurers will only pay out up to your car’s market value. If the cost of fixing your car is more than it’s worth, your insurer may “write off” your vehicle. In that case:

You’ll receive a payout equal to your car’s market value
You won’t get the cost of repairs covered if it exceeds that value

Therefore, it is essential to be aware of both your policy excess and the current market value of your vehicle before proceeding with an insurance claim.

Insurance agent assessing car damage and writing insurance claim report after accident.

Why Choose Bob Davies Car Sales?

At Bob Davies Car Sales, we are committed to supporting our customers at every stage of vehicle ownership. We provide competitive finance solutions designed to make purchasing and maintaining a vehicle more accessible, and our carefully selected stock includes thoroughly inspected vehicles, often accompanied by comprehensive warranty options for additional peace of mind.

Above all, we pride ourselves on delivering honest, knowledgeable guidance without high-pressure sales tactics. For those asking, “does car insurance cover repairs?”, it is crucial to remember that choosing the right vehicle, securing appropriate insurance cover, and partnering with a trusted dealership can significantly reduce the stress and cost associated with unexpected repairs.

Need Help with a Replacement Car?

Whether your car’s been written off, you’re looking for a reliable upgrade, or you simply want peace of mind, we’re ready to help.

Get in touch with our friendly team
Browse our current used stock
Apply for finance and discover how affordable your next car could be

Your perfect car could be waiting at Bob Davies Car Sales today!

FAQs

Will insurance cover repairs after an accident I caused?

Only if you have comprehensive cover. Third-party policies won’t pay for damage to your own car in an at-fault accident.

Can I choose my own garage for repairs?

Usually yes — but check your policy. Some insurers prefer you use their approved repairers.

What if the other driver was at fault?

If you weren’t at fault, your repairs may be covered by the other driver’s insurer. However, you may still need to claim on your own insurance initially, then reclaim costs.

Will repairs affect my no-claims discount?

Potentially, yes. Even a small claim could reduce your no-claims bonus at renewal, unless you’ve protected it.