## Blown Engine: Is It Covered by Car Insurance?
A blown engine is a serious issue that can leave you stranded on the side of the road and facing a hefty repair bill. But is a blown engine covered by car insurance? The answer depends on your specific policy and the cause of the engine failure.
### Mechanical Breakdown Coverage
Most standard car insurance policies do not cover mechanical breakdowns, including blown engines. However, you can purchase optional mechanical breakdown coverage (also known as extended warranty) to protect yourself against these types of repairs.
Mechanical breakdown coverage typically covers major components of your vehicle, including the engine, transmission, differential, and other vital parts. If your engine blows due to a covered mechanical failure, your insurance policy will pay for the repair or replacement costs.
### Causes of Blown Engines
There are many different things that can cause an engine to blow. Some of the most common causes include:
* **Overheating:** When an engine overheats, it can cause the metal components to expand and warp, leading to a blown engine. Overheating can be caused by a variety of factors, such as a coolant leak, a faulty thermostat, or a clogged radiator.
* **Lack of lubrication:** If your engine does not have enough oil, it can cause the metal components to rub against each other, creating friction and heat. This can lead to a blown engine.
* **Mechanical defects:** Some engines are simply more prone to blowing than others. This is often due to design flaws or manufacturing defects.
* **Negligence:** If you neglect your vehicle’s maintenance, it can increase the risk of a blown engine. For example, if you do not change your oil regularly or if you ignore warning lights, it can lead to engine damage.
### What to Do If Your Engine Blows
If your engine blows, the first thing you should do is pull over to a safe location and turn off the engine. Do not attempt to drive the vehicle with a blown engine, as this could cause further damage.
Once you are safely stopped, you should call your insurance company to report the claim. Your insurance adjuster will investigate the cause of the engine failure and determine whether it is covered by your policy.
If your engine failure is covered by your insurance, you will need to pay your deductible before the insurance company pays for the repairs. The deductible is the amount of money that you are responsible for paying out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in.
### How to Prevent a Blown Engine
There are a few things you can do to help prevent a blown engine:
* **Follow the maintenance schedule in your vehicle’s owner’s manual.** This schedule will include important tasks such as oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections.
* **Check your fluid levels regularly.** This includes checking the oil level, coolant level, and brake fluid level.
* **Fix any problems as soon as they arise.** If you notice any strange noises or vibrations coming from your engine, do not ignore them. Have the problem checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible.
* **Drive carefully.** Avoid aggressive driving habits that can put stress on your engine. This includes speeding, hard braking, and rapid acceleration.
### Conclusion
A blown engine can be a major inconvenience and expense. However, if you have mechanical breakdown coverage, you can rest assured that you will be covered for the cost of repairs. By following the tips in this article, you can help prevent a blown engine and keep your vehicle running smoothly for years to come.
