Cost and insurance implications of poor vehicle maintenance

Motorists should be aware that insurers will not pay for the repair of mechanical problems caused by poor vehicle maintenance.

“Skipping routine maintenance or services could leave motorists having to cover expensive repair costs themselves, rectifying the damage resulting from poor maintenance” says Abrie Janse van Rensburg, Claims Manager, Alexander Forbes Insurance.

Motor policies do not cover vehicle damage caused by poor maintenance. So, to minimise damage and avoid claims rejection, motorists should ensure that their vehicles are maintained in a roadworthy condition.

Since knowing when and how much maintenance your vehicle requires depends on the manufacturer and vehicle model “the best option is to refer to your owner’s manual for assistance, or approach your vehicle dealer or insurer to obtain proper advice” advises Janse van Rensburg.

“Being too busy to allow the petrol jockey to check your oil and water or trying to save money by delaying your service another 20 thousand kilometres because the car seems to be going fine is a very common cause of engines seizing because of lack of lubrication and coolant” warns Janse Van Rensburg.

Other common mechanical failure claims regularly rejected by insurers include; snapped timing belts causing severe damage to surrounding vehicle components, and worn gearbox seals causing leaks and gear failure.

“Motorists may even find themselves in a position where their insurer rejects a motor accident claim if they can prove that it resulted from poor maintenance” warns Janse van Rensburg.

And, even more worryingly, accidents caused by poor maintenance could result in motorists losing their liability for injury or damage to third party property cover.

For example, any claims arising from an accident caused by a motorist using tyres with no tread in wet conditions could be rejected. Similarly, if it can be shown that an accident resulted from worn down brake pads any damage claims, or even liability claims, resulting from the accident could be rejected.

In short, “ignoring the basics or trying to save a buck on maintenance, may well see motorists paying heavily, either to rectify mechanical damage themselves, or because they find themselves without cover and personally liable for extensive damages claims” concludes Janse Van Rensburg.