What Mechanical Breakdown Coverage Typically Doesn’t Cover

Posted on May 19, 2025 by Hoang Nguyen

When it comes to protecting your vehicle from unexpected repairs, mechanical breakdown coverage (MBC) can be a valuable addition to your insurance policy. Often referred to as car repair insurance, it helps pay for the cost of repairing major mechanical components that fail due to manufacturing defects or normal use. However, it’s important to understand that MBC doesn’t cover everything. 

 

If you’re relying on it for full protection, you could be in for a surprise. Here’s a breakdown of what mechanical breakdown coverage typically doesn’t include.

Wear and Tear Items

While MBC is helpful for sudden breakdowns, it doesn’t extend to parts that naturally wear out over time. These are considered routine ownership expenses.

Routine Maintenance

Routine services are not included under MBC. This includes:

 

  • Oil changes, which are essential for engine longevity but fall under routine care.

 

  • Tire rotations to ensure even wear on your tires.

 

  • Filter replacements, such as air and cabin filters.

 

  • Brake pad replacements, unless their failure causes a breakdown covered under your policy.

 

  • Spark plug replacements, which degrade over time and are part of standard maintenance.

Normal Deterioration

As vehicles age, certain parts inevitably wear down. These aren’t considered breakdowns and are typically excluded from coverage:

 

  • Worn belts and hoses, unless their failure directly leads to a covered mechanical issue.

 

  • Faded paint or worn upholstery, which is considered cosmetic wear.

 

  • Declining battery performance over time isn’t covered, even if it leads to a dead battery.

Consumable Parts

Consumables, by nature, are meant to be replaced periodically:

 

  • Windshield wiper blades need regular replacement but aren’t covered.

 

  • Fluids like oil, brake fluid, and coolant are not covered unless they’re part of a repair tied to a covered mechanical failure.

Damage Due to External Factors

Mechanical breakdown coverage focuses on internal mechanical issues—not damage from external forces.

Accidents and Collisions

If your vehicle is damaged in a crash or by striking another object:

 

  • These repairs are handled by collision insurance, not MBC.

Environmental Damage

MBC also doesn’t pay for damage caused by Mother Nature:

 

  • Floods, earthquakes, and hail can cause severe vehicle damage, but these are covered under comprehensive insurance.

 

  • Rust or corrosion is generally excluded unless specifically included in the policy—and even then, coverage may be limited.

Vandalism and Theft

MBC does not protect against human-caused damage or vehicle loss:

 

  • Intentional vandalism or damage from attempted theft.

 

  • Theft of the vehicle itself. Again, this falls under comprehensive coverage.

Issues Related to Neglect or Misuse

How you care for and drive your vehicle plays a big role in what’s covered under mechanical breakdown coverage.

Lack of Proper Maintenance

If your vehicle breaks down due to failure to follow the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines:

 

  • That repair won’t be covered. Keep records of services like oil changes and fluid flushes to avoid disputes.

Misuse or Abuse of the Vehicle

Using your car in ways it wasn’t designed for can void your coverage:

 

  • Racing, off-roading (if not permitted), or overloading the vehicle can all result in denied claims.

Modifications or Aftermarket Parts

Mechanical failures caused by:

 

  • Non-standard modifications or aftermarket parts not approved by the manufacturer may not be covered. Always check your policy if your car has been modified.

Specific Exclusions Listed in the Policy

Every policy includes specific exclusions. Be sure to read the fine print.

Pre-Existing Conditions

If a problem already existed before your MBC policy took effect:

 

  • It’s generally excluded from coverage. Some plans also include a waiting period before coverage starts.

Certain High-Performance or Specialty Parts

Not all parts or vehicles are treated equally:

 

  • Luxury, high-performance, or custom vehicles may have limited or no coverage for certain components.

Consequential Damage

Damage that results from a breakdown that wasn’t addressed in time:

 

  • This may not be covered. For example, if a minor oil leak isn’t fixed and leads to engine failure, the insurer might deny the claim.

Affordable Auto Insurance in Chicago

Mechanical breakdown coverage is a smart investment for many drivers, especially when paired with a good maintenance routine and a clear understanding of what’s included. While it provides peace of mind for unexpected mechanical failures, it’s not a substitute for regular maintenance or other forms of coverage like collision or comprehensive insurance.

 

Get insured today!