Your car is built of several parts. To run smoothly on the road, it is important that all these parts are perfectly aligned. To this, wheels are no exception. Wheel alignment refers to adjusting wheels to a suitable alignment, allowing your car to run smoothly. Such wheel alignment in a car is important for a variety of reasons:
1. Alignment improves the car's handling and ride experience.
2. Proper alignment is also beneficial for better performance on the road and increased durability of tyres.
3. Regular alignment protects the suspension system, etc.
Now that you know the importance of wheel alignment, the next question is: Does car insurance cover alignment? Let's see.
Does Car Insurance Cover Alignment?
No. Typically, wheel balancing, alignment, or rotation is not covered in most car insurance policies. However, you can still protect your wheels by choosing a tyre protection cover, which is available as an add-on.
1. Comprehensive Car Insurance
A comprehensive car insurance policy offers wide coverage to your vehicle against a variety of risks. For instance, if the wheels or suspension are damaged in an accident, the repair and realignment costs are usually covered under comprehensive car insurance.
2. Third-Party Cover
Third-party cover is mandatory by law. It offers financial protection against damages caused to a third party. This means it doesn't protect your car's alignment in the event of a jolt or an accident.
3. Add-Ons
Different types of add-ons, like zero depreciation and tyre protection, can indirectly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses when dealing with accident-related repairs, including wheel alignment.
What is Not Included in Tyre Cover in Car Insurance?
Before you buy any add-on, make sure you understand what it covers and what it doesn't. For instance, at Generali Central, your tyre protection might not cover these issues related to alignment.
1. Suppose the alignment issues happen over time. This means normal wear and tear is not covered.
2. The routine maintenance costs are not covered.
3. Any damage caused by manufacturing problems is not covered.
4. Any damage caused due to racing, rallying, or such other activities is not covered.
If you want to know more about tyre protection, read “ Everything You Need to Know about Tyre Protection."
Why Regular Wheel Alignment Matters?
Wheel alignment might or might not be covered in your car insurance, depending on the type of coverage. However, alignment checks remain crucial for your safety and comfort. For instance, in the case of poor alignment:
The mileage might be reduced
The steering becomes unsafe
The suspension system is strained
The tyres are unevenly strained with wear and tear
Wheels connect your vehicle to the road, ensuring a smooth ride. This highlights the importance of wheel alignment and tyre protection. This means, ideally, everyone should have a tyre protection cover, allowing you to protect your tyres with minimal out-of-pocket expenses. However, here are some situations when having such add-ons benefits you the most.
In case you travel frequently
In case you travel long distances
In case you're buying a new car
In case you're taking a seasonal trip or a trip to mountainous regions.
Final Word
Driving on Indian roads can be an experience in itself. It's not always smooth. Thus, having car insurance online can be a smart and easy way to protect your beloved car. You can choose from the variety of coverage you want and then customise it as per your needs with suitable add-ons.
As a frequent traveller, if you feel your wheels need extra protection, you must surely add tyre protection. Understanding its use, inclusions, and exclusions helps you avoid unnecessary stress and financial worries.
