Will Your Car Insurance Cover Engine Failure? Understanding Engine Protection in the UAE

Will your car insurance cover engine damage? Do Car Insurance Plans Cover Engine Failure? You’re in the right place if these questions are on your mind. Engine failure can disrupt your life and drain your wallet, but the right insurance policy can save you. This guide breaks down what standard policies include, when you’re protected, and Who Should Consider Buying an Engine Breakdown Cover. Learn how to safeguard your vehicle and avoid costly surprises.

Common Causes of Engine Failure: What Your Insurance Might Exclude

Engine failure can strike unexpectedly, especially in the UAE’s extreme climate. While standard policies lack insurance cover engine damage, an add-on called engine protection cover fills this gap. Let’s explore how this add-on works, who needs it, and why it’s critical for UAE drivers.

Before asking questions like Does car insurance pay for repairs, or Do car insurance plans cover engine failure, it is better to learn about the factors leading to such damage. For example, engine failure, one of the most disturbing things that can happen to a driver, is usually caused by a couple of factors. Let’s take a look:

Overheating: A Leading Cause of Engine Failure

One of the most common engine issues is overheating, which occurs when the engine’s temperature exceeds its optimal range. Overheating can result from low coolant levels, malfunctioning thermostats or radiators, or a damaged water pump.

A few symptoms can tell you when your engine is overheated, such as steam coming from the hood, a rising temperature inside the vehicle (on the dashboard), or a burning smell. Here’s a common experience we’ve heard in the UAE: some off-road enthusiasts take their cars on adventures, and due to a lack of proper maintenance, their cars break down in the heat. Some of our customers driving a Jeep with the best Jeep car insurance have faced this problem, but had their cars fixed without much cost.

Oil Leaks and Ignition System Failures

Oil leaks are another common engine damage. However, if left untouched, this can lead to more serious problems. Worn-out engine components, seals, and degraded gaskets might be causes of oil leakage. A leaking engine can lead to increased friction, overheating, and serious engine damage.

The ignition system is in charge of starting the engine and ensuring smooth combustion. Failure in this system can lead to misfiring or difficulty in starting the engine.

Why Lubrication Issues Void Most Policies

One other common cause of engine damage is dirt or prolonged low oil levels in the lubrication system. This can be caused by oil leaks, broken oil pumps, the oil burning too fast, or driving too long in between oil changes.

Will Your Car Insurance Cover Engine Failure? Scenarios Explained

Do Car Insurance Plans Cover Engine Failure? Or will car insurance cover repairs if you are at fault? All these questions depend on the type of coverage you choose and your insurance policies.

Some insurance cover engine damage, while others don’t. The cause of damage and engine failure is also important and plays a big role in the type of coverage that can take care of the issue. Let’s take a more careful look:

Does Insurance Cover Engine Damage from Collisions: What’s Covered?

If the engine failure directly results from a collision accident, car insurance can cover your engine failure. This is only accurate when there have been no previous damages due to the engine, and the issue is solely a result of the accident.

In case you were at fault, your comprehensive coverage will cover the engine damage if you caused the collision. If another driver was at fault, their insurance should pay for the engine damage.

If you’re hit by a driver with no insurance, your insurance will cover the damage. If you cause the accident, your engine damage is only taken care of by the insurer if you have a comprehensive car insurance policy.

Will Your Car Insurance Cover Engine Failure from Non-Collision Damage?

In case of a non-collision accident that has not been in your control, the policy might offer insurance cover engine damage if you have comprehensive car insurance.

If the damage is due to fire and theft, a third-party fire and theft insurance will also be helpful for you. However, your insurer will ensure that this damage is solely due to a natural accident and that you couldn’t possibly do anything about it.

Do Car Insurance Plans Cover Engine Failure for Mechanical Reasons

Car insurance cover engine damage add-on typically doesn’t cover engine failure due to non-collision accidents other than the ones mentioned above; mechanical failure, wear-and-tear damages, and lack of maintenance are not included in an insurance company’s policy. Standard auto insurance policies usually cover engine failure that is a direct result of an accident or is due to fire, theft, vandalism, or a natural disaster. You can purchase special add-ons that cover mechanical failure.

Do Car Insurance Plans Cover Engine Failure? Breaking Down Policy Types

Will insurance cover car repairs, depending on the type of coverage you choose for your car? Therefore, before anything, it is essential to learn the most common types of insurance coverage here in the UAE:

Comprehensive Car Insurance

Fully comprehensive car insurance is the highest level of coverage, providing high protection. This type of insurance policy covers any damage to your vehicle or yourself caused by an accident caused by you or someone with no insurance.

It also covers third-party liabilities such as self-injury and property damage. This insurance cover engine damage of almost any sort besides wear-and-tear damages.

4×4 vehicles are often driven in extreme conditions, which can increase the risk of engine damage. Having the right coverage is essential, and finding cheap 4×4 insurance that still offers comprehensive protection can save you from costly repairs. Explore insurance options that provide the right balance between affordability and coverage for off-road and high-performance driving.

Third-party Insurance

Third-party insurance is the lowest mandatory level of coverage available in the UAE. This coverage is essential for any driver and is the lowest protection level. This only covers third-party liabilities due to an accident caused by you, such as self-injury and property damage.

Third-Party Fire and Theft

Third-party fire and theft are the middle ground.  This type of insurance takes care of third-party liabilities as well as vehicle damage due to fire, theft, and vandalism. This insurance policy only takes care of engine damage due to fire and theft.

Collision Insurance

Collision insurance is a type of policy that covers the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle after an accident regardless of who is at fault.

This includes damage from collisions with other vehicles or objects, rollovers, and damage from uninsured drivers. This insurance policy only takes care of your engine damage if it is caused due to an accident.

Engine Protection Cover

Engine protection cover, also known as the engine guard is an add-on protection that you can ask for in order to add to your policy.

This is an option that can provide extra and special protection to your engine due to a number of causes such as water ingress, oil leakage, physical damage, etc.

So, if you are wondering how to get insurance to cover a blown motor, you should ask to add “Engine protection cover” to your insurance policy.

Who Should Consider Buying an Engine Breakdown Cover in the UAE?

Will your car insurance cover engine failure in high-risk scenarios? For many drivers, standard policies fall short. Here’s who should consider buying an engine breakdown cover to avoid costly repairs and ensure peace of mind:

Drivers in Extreme Climates (e.g., UAE Heat)

If you’re driving in the UAE’s 45°C+ heat, ask: “Will my car insurance cover engine damage from overheating or coolant failure?” Standard policies often exclude wear caused by extreme temperatures. Engine breakdown cover ensures protection against:

• Overheating from traffic jams or desert drives.
• Coolant system failures accelerated by scorching climates.

Off-Road Enthusiasts and Desert Adventurers

Desert adventurers tackling UAE dunes or mountain trails face unique risks like sand ingress and hydraulic lock. Standard policies rarely cover off-road engine damage. Example: Jeep owners with the best Jeep car insurance cover engine damage for:

• Clogged air filters from sandstorms.
• Engine seizures after water crossings.

High-Mileage Commuters and Ride-Hailing Drivers

Frequent drivers (e.g., ride-hailing professionals) endure accelerated wear and tear. Most standard policies exclude mechanical failures from daily use. Breakdown cover safeguards against:

• Sudden oil leaks during long commutes.
• Ignition system failures due to constant stress.

Owners of Older or High-Mileage Vehicles

Aging engines are prone to oil leaks, lubrication issues, and electrical failures. Standard UAE car insurance rarely covers these. Breakdown cover is critical for:

• Cars with 100,000+ km mileage.
• Pre-2015 models lacked modern cooling systems.

Luxury or Performance Car Owners

Repairing a BMW or Mercedes engine can cost AED 20,000+. Standard plans exclude mechanical failures unrelated to accidents. Breakdown cover offsets expenses for:

• Turbocharger or transmission failures.
• Electrical system malfunctions in high-end models.

Drivers Without Comprehensive Insurance

Third-party insurance excludes engine damage entirely. If you’re asking, “Do car insurance policies cover engine failure?”—only breakdown cover can protect you. Ideal for:

• Budget-conscious drivers need basic coverage.
• Vehicles are not eligible for comprehensive plans.

How To File a Claim for Engine Damage

To file a car insurance claim for engine damage, you should take a few steps:

Contact Your Insurer

To raise a claim, you need to contact your insurer first. Most insurance providers have information about filing claims on their websites. This is usually possible through their applications or webpages, or you can directly phone an agent.

Provide Details and Proof

You will have to provide all the necessary details regarding the incident, including the time, date, and location, as well as the name and address of anyone involved in the accident. Your insurer will also ask for proof and a report of the accident. In case the police have been involved, police reports are among the best reports you can give to your insurer.

Review Your Policy

Make sure to check your policy and go over the things your plan covers. The fine print eventually determines the amount and circumstances of compensation for any case.

Wait For Your Insurer’s Notice

After providing all the necessary documents, you can only wait for your provider’s notice to see whether your claim has succeeded. In case of a successful claim, your insurer will guide you through the following steps.

Compare Comprehensive Insurance Plans Online

If you are looking for a comprehensive plan offering the most engine damage coverage, you must compare all available insurance providers. Luckily, a platform like Lookinsure is here to gather all the best comprehensive insurance plans and will guide you through the selection process. The prices and coverage extensions are provided from the latest data, helping you make an informed and up-to-date choice.

Final Verdict: Does Car Insurance Cover Engine Failure?

Standard car insurance typically covers engine damage caused by collisions, fires, or natural disasters—but not wear and tear. Who Should Consider Buying an Engine Breakdown Cover? Drivers in high-risk environments, owners of aging vehicles, or anyone seeking extra security. Always review your policy, compare comprehensive plans, and add engine protection to avoid unexpected costs. Protect your car’s heart—before it’s too late.

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