Must-Have Motor Insurance Add-On Covers You Should Consider

Regarding motor insurance, most vehicle owners settle for the basic policy—either third-party or comprehensive. While these offer a decent level of protection, unexpected events often come with costs that your standard policy doesn’t cover. That’s where add-on covers in motor insurance come into play.

Add-on covers enhance your base policy by providing additional benefits and financial protection.

If you plan to purchase car insurance online, it’s worth exploring these options to get the most out of your policy. In this article, we’ll dive into the most valuable motor insurance add-ons that can save you money, stress, and hassle.

What Are Motor Insurance Add-On Covers?

Add-on covers in motor insurance are optional benefits you can purchase by paying an extra premium along with your standard insurance policy. These covers are designed to plug the gaps left by basic motor insurance, offering a more tailored and comprehensive protection package.

Whether buying a new car or renewing your policy, selecting the right add-ons can transform a generic policy into the best motor insurance for your needs.

Top Motor Insurance Add-On Covers to Consider

Let’s take a closer look at the most popular and useful motor insurance add-ons available in India:

Zero Depreciation Cover

Depreciation is the decrease in your car's value over time, which affects claim settlements. In a standard policy, insurers deduct depreciation on parts while settling claims. However, with a Zero Depreciation Cover, you receive the full claim amount without any deduction on replaced parts like plastic, rubber, and metal components.

• Best for: New car owners, luxury vehicles, or cars less than 5 years old.

Engine Protection Cover

A standard comprehensive policy doesn’t cover damage to your car’s engine caused by water ingress, oil leakage, or hydrostatic lock. An Engine Protection Cover ensures you're financially protected against such costly repairs, especially during monsoons or if you live in a flood-prone area.

• Best for: High-end or new vehicles and residents in areas with poor drainage or waterlogging.

Roadside Assistance Cover

Have you ever been stranded due to a flat tyre, dead battery, or mechanical failure? With Roadside Assistance Cover, help is just a phone call away. This add-on offers services like towing, on-the-spot repairs, fuel delivery, and more, providing peace of mind when moving.

• Best for: Frequent travellers, long-distance commuters, and those who drive in remote areas.

Return to Invoice Cover

A standard policy only pays the insured declared value (IDV) in case of total loss or theft of your vehicle, which may be significantly lower than the original purchase price. Return to Invoice Cover bridges that gap by reimbursing the full invoice amount, including road tax and registration charges.

• Best for: New or high-value car owners who want maximum financial recovery in case of loss.

NCB (No Claim Bonus) Protection Cover

With every claim-free year, you earn a No Claim Bonus (NCB)—a discount on your premium upon renewal. However, a single claim can wipe out this benefit. NCB Protection Cover ensures that your bonus remains intact even after making a claim, helping you save in the long run.

• Best for: Cautious drivers who haven’t claimed in years and want to safeguard their discount.

Personal Accident Cover for Passengers

While your standard policy includes personal accident cover for the owner-driver, it doesn’t protect passengers. This Personal Accident Cover for Passengers provides financial support in case a co-passenger is injured or dies during an accident.

Best for: Family vehicle owners, ride-sharing car owners, or anyone who regularly travels with others.

How to Choose the Right Add-On Covers for Your Vehicle

Selecting the right add-ons depends on several factors, including your vehicle type, usage pattern, location, and personal preferences. Here are a few tips to help you decide:

• Assess your risk profile: Do you live in a flood-prone area or drive frequently in remote locations? Add-ons like engine protection or roadside assistance may be crucial.
• Evaluate your car’s age and value: Zero depreciation and return to invoice are significant for new or expensive vehicles.
• Consider your travel habits: If you often drive with family or friends, covering passenger personal accident is a wise choice.
• Set a budget: While add-ons increase your premium, they can save significantly during claims. Prioritise the most relevant covers for your needs.

With the rise of digital platforms, it’s easier than ever to compare and purchase car insurance online with the right combination of add-ons. Customising your policy with the right covers ensures you're legally compliant and financially protected in all situations.

Final Thoughts

Motor insurance isn’t just about fulfilling legal requirements—it's about securing your financial future against uncertainties. Opting for the right add-on covers in motor insurance will enhance your coverage and reduce out-of-pocket expenses when unexpected events occur. Take the time to evaluate your needs and customise your policy. That’s how you get the best motor insurance that truly protects you.

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