Your car’s tyres are among the most
crucial components ensuring safety, stability, and performance on the road.
Yet, they are also highly susceptible to damage due to potholes, accidents,
natural calamities, and daily wear and tear. While standard car insurance
policies cover accidents, theft, and third-party liabilities, they generally do
not include tyre damage. This is where tyre
cover in car insurance becomes an essential add-on for car owners
seeking complete protection.
In this article, we’ll provide everything
you need to know about tyre cover in car insurance—its coverage,
benefits, cost, and why it matters for every vehicle owner in India.
What
is Tyre Cover in Car Insurance?
Tyre cover is an optional add-on to
your comprehensive car insurance policy that protects your tyres against damage
caused by accidents, road hazards, and certain natural factors. While regular
car insurance covers accidents and third-party damages, tyre cover focuses
exclusively on safeguarding your tyres, which can be costly to replace,
particularly for high-end or imported cars.
With tyre cover, car owners can
claim repair or replacement costs without significant out-of-pocket expenses,
making it a practical choice for anyone looking to maintain their vehicle in
top condition.
Types
of Tyre Damage Covered
Tyre cover protects against multiple
types of damage, depending on the insurer and policy terms:
- Accidental Damage
Tyres damaged due to collisions, skidding, or minor accidents on the road. - Punctures and Burst Tyres
Sudden punctures or blowouts caused by nails, sharp objects, or poor road conditions. - Natural Calamities
Damage resulting from floods, landslides, storms, or other natural disasters. - Vandalism
Tyres intentionally damaged by external factors or malicious acts. - Optional Wear and Tear Protection
Some insurers offer coverage against excessive wear and tear for an additional premium, though this is less common.
Exclusions
of Tyre Cover
While tyre cover provides valuable
protection, there are some common exclusions:
- Damage due to negligence,
reckless driving, or racing.
- Tyres that are already
worn out before the policy started.
- Damage caused during illegal activities.
- Tyres not
fitted as original equipment unless specified in the policy.
Understanding these exclusions helps
policyholders avoid surprises during claims.
Benefits
of Tyre Cover
Adding tyre cover to your car
insurance comes with multiple advantages:
1. Financial Protection
Tyres, especially for luxury or imported cars, can be expensive. Tyre cover
ensures that repair or replacement costs are partially or fully covered.
2. Hassle-Free Repairs
Many insurers provide cashless claims at network garages, allowing seamless
tyre replacement without upfront payments.
3. Comprehensive Coverage
Tyre cover protects against punctures, bursts, accidental damage, natural
calamities, and even vandalism in many cases.
4. Peace of Mind
Knowing that tyre damage is covered reduces stress and helps car owners focus
on safe driving rather than repair costs.
5. Suited for Indian Roads
With potholes, uneven terrain, and heavy rains, tyre damage is a common risk.
Tyre cover addresses this practical concern effectively.
How
Much Does Tyre Cover Cost?
The premium for tyre cover depends
on several factors:
- Car Model and Tyre Type: Luxury or imported cars cost more to insure.
- Add-On Options:
Some policies include rim protection or coverage for multiple tyres.
- Insurance Provider:
Premiums vary across companies.
- Policy Duration:
Longer policies may offer discounted rates.
Typically, tyre cover add-ons range
from ₹1,000 to ₹5,000 per year
for regular cars. While this may seem like an additional expense, it is often
significantly lower than the replacement cost of tyres.
How
to Avail Tyre Cover
- At Policy Purchase
Add tyre cover when buying a new comprehensive car insurance policy. The premium is adjusted according to your car type and coverage needs. - During Policy Renewal
You can opt for tyre cover while renewing an existing policy, depending on the insurer’s terms and your vehicle’s condition. - Choose Network Garages
Ensure the insurer’s network garages provide tyre repair or replacement services to facilitate cashless claims.
Tips
for Filing a Tyre Cover Claim
- Document the Damage:
Take clear photos of damaged tyres before visiting a garage.
- Visit Network Garages: Cashless repairs are faster at authorized garages.
- Keep Purchase Invoices: Maintain receipts for tyres and repairs to support
claims.
- Report Immediately:
Inform the insurer promptly to avoid delays or claim rejection.
- Understand Policy Terms: Check coverage limits and exclusions before claiming.
Is
Tyre Cover Worth It?
Considering the high cost of tyre
replacement and the challenging road conditions in India, tyre cover is a
valuable add-on. It provides financial relief, convenience, and enhanced
vehicle safety. For luxury or imported vehicles, it is almost essential. Even
for standard cars, tyre cover reduces stress and ensures hassle-free repair
during unexpected events.
Conclusion
Tyres are a critical component of
vehicle safety, yet their maintenance can be costly. Understanding tyre
cover in car insurance, including coverage, benefits, and cost, empowers
car owners to make informed decisions when choosing insurance add-ons. By
including tyre cover, you not only protect your tyres but also enjoy peace of
mind and financial security. For expert guidance and a seamless insurance
experience, Square Insurance helps policyholders select the right
add-ons and ensures smooth claims for complete vehicle protection.
Frequently
Asked Questions
1. Is tyre cover included in
standard car insurance?
No, tyre cover is an optional add-on and is not part of a standard
comprehensive policy.
2. Can I claim cashless repairs for
tyre damage?
Yes, most insurers provide cashless services at authorized network garages.
3. Does tyre cover include wheel
rims?
Some policies offer rim protection along with tyre cover, depending on the
insurer.
4. How much does tyre cover cost?
Premiums typically range from ₹1,000 to ₹5,000 annually, depending on car type,
tyre size, and add-on options.
5. Can tyre cover be added after
buying a policy?
Yes, you can opt for tyre cover during policy renewal or after purchasing an
existing policy.
6. What types of tyre damage are
covered?
Accidental damage, punctures, bursts, natural calamities, and vandalism are
commonly covered, subject to policy terms.
