A car repair bill can contain more than the cost of replacing a damaged part following a covered incident. Engine oil, brake fluid, lubricants, nuts, bolts, washers, and similar items may also be used during repairs. These are generally known as consumables. If you are considering consumables cover in car insurance, it helps to know what this add-on covers and what to look for before adding it to your policy.
What Does Consumables Cover In Car Insurance Actually Cover?
Consumables cover in car insurance is an add-on that may cover eligible consumable items used during such repairs, subject to the policy terms.
Consumables become relevant to insurance when they are used as part of an eligible repair following an insured incident. They are different from the oil, fluids, filters, and other items you replace during routine servicing, which are ordinary maintenance expenses.
The list of items, limits, and conditions can differ between policies, so check the policy document to see exactly what applies.
Why Are Consumables Treated Separately From Car Parts?
A damaged bumper or headlamp is a vehicle part that can be repaired or replaced. Consumables are different because they are used during the repair itself and are not generally reusable afterwards.
For example, a repair may involve replacing a damaged component as well as using fresh lubricant, oil, or other consumable items. Whether the cost of those items forms part of the applicable insurance cover depends on the policy and any add-on selected.
When Might You Consider This Add-On For Your Car?
The age and condition of the vehicle, the type of policy, the available add-ons, and the additional premium can all be relevant when you consider consumables cover.
It also helps to look at the actual items listed under the add-on rather than assuming that every workshop consumable is included. The policy document should spell out the applicable conditions and exclusions.
What Should You Check Before Adding Consumables Cover?
Before choosing the add-on, check these details in the policy document:
- Which consumable items are listed under the cover
- The conditions that apply to the add-on
- Any exclusions or limits
- The additional premium
- Whether the add-on is available for your vehicle and policy
- How the add-on applies to eligible own-damage claims
Do not assume that an add-on covers every small item appearing on a repair bill. The exact scope depends on the policy terms.
Conclusion
Consumables can be a small part of a repair bill, but several such items may be involved in the same repair. Whether the add-on is relevant to you depends on its cost, the cover it provides, and the terms that apply to your policy.
Before adding it to your car insurance, compare the additional premium with the cover offered and read the policy document and product brochure carefully. That gives you the information needed to make a decision based on your own requirements.
