Does my auto insurance cover a clutch replacement?

If you drive a car with a manual transmission, a properly functioning clutch is essential. Damage to the clutch could sideline your vehicle permanently if you wait too long to fix it.

If the clutch damage is from an accident, there are a few things you may consider. For instance, does auto insurance cover clutch replacement?

Keep reading to learn what you need to know about how auto insurance covers clutch replacement.

Before reading about auto insurance coverage for clutch replacement, enter your ZIP code in our free comparison tool above to compare affordable auto insurance policies from multiple companies near you today.

Does auto insurance cover a clutch replacement?

The simple answer is yes, if the damage is from an accident.

If the accident is not your fault, the other driver’s liability coverage will pay for the damage.

Unfortunately, if you’re at fault in the accident, your liability insurance won’t cover it. However, if you have collision coverage, the auto insurance company will cover the cost of a clutch replacement after an accident regardless of who was at fault.

If your clutch is damaged during vehicle theft or by a falling object, fire, flood, or storm, then your comprehensive coverage will take care of the clutch replacement cost.

Similarly, a clutch plate replacement falls under the same rules as an entire clutch replacement. The insurance company won’t cover any damage from aging or negligence. However, it can provide coverage after a collision depending on your policy.

If your car is under warranty, you may not need auto insurance to cover the repair. Vehicles under warranty should have the clutch replaced for free.

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What if my car insurance company won’t cover clutch replacement?

If your car insurance company determines that a clutch damage is due to normal wear and tear or negligence, they will decline your claim. You will be responsible for the cost of replacing the clutch.

Generally, you can expect a clutch replacement to cost around $1,200 to $1,400. However, because the cost of parts and labor vary depending on the state, you may see expenses as low as $800.

With a warranty on your car, you can save at least $1,200. If you have no car insurance and no warranty, you can expect to pay the entire cost out of pocket.

But, you can look into mechanical breakdown auto insurance as an alternative solution.

How to Shop for Mechanical Breakdown Car Insurance

One option to get repairs covered is mechanical breakdown insurance (MBI). This clutch insurance option isn’t available from all insurance companies.

Geico is one of the few car insurance companies that offer mechanical breakdown insurance. However, most of the time, you will have to seek this coverage out elsewhere.

Mechanical breakdown insurance kicks in for breakdowns. The MBI company covers the costs of damage and cuts a check based on the repair cost.

Mechanical breakdown car insurance rates are about $100 per month.

Because rates for this coverage are higher, we recommend that you get a few estimates for repairs.

Even though it is a more expensive added cost, mechanical breakdown insurance can save you hundreds when your car warranty ends. If it’s cheaper to renew your warranty, choose that option.

If not, consider getting mechanical breakdown insurance if it’s available to you.

It is important to note that collision and comprehensive coverage from car insurance usually have a deductible. A higher deductible can get you cheaper car insurance.

However, warranties don’t usually come with a deductible or labor costs.

Case Studies: Auto Insurance Coverage for Clutch Replacement

Case Study 1: John’s Accident

John was involved in a car accident where his clutch got damaged. Fortunately, the accident was not his fault, and the other driver’s liability coverage paid for the clutch replacement. John didn’t have to worry about the cost thanks to the coverage provided by the other driver’s insurance.

Case Study 2: Sarah’s Comprehensive Claim

Sarah’s car was stolen, and when it was recovered, she discovered that the clutch had been damaged. Since the clutch damage occurred during the vehicle theft, Sarah’s comprehensive coverage took care of the clutch replacement cost. She was relieved that her insurance policy covered the necessary repairs.

Case Study 3: Mark’s Mechanical Breakdown Insurance

Mark’s clutch wore down over time due to normal wear and tear. Unfortunately, his auto insurance company determined that this damage was not covered under his policy. However, Mark had purchased mechanical breakdown insurance as an additional coverage. With this insurance, he was able to get his clutch replaced, saving him from paying the entire cost out of pocket.

The Bottom Line: Does auto insurance cover clutch replacement?

Does insurance cover clutch replacement? The short answer is yes, if it’s damaged in a covered claim.

Ignoring a damaged clutch will eventually affect the engine, causing you to pay even more money than to replace the clutch. If you’ve been in an accident, file a claim right away and have everything inspected.

You should also make sure that you have full coverage auto insurance. Unfortunately, liability-only auto insurance may leave you to pay the clutch replacement bill.

One downside to having liability-only car insurance is that it won’t cover the clutch replacement cost if you are at fault. Collision coverage can help you pay for a clutch replacement if you are at fault, but you’ll have to pay the deductible.

Additionally, consider mechanical breakdown insurance. Mechanical breakdown insurance provides coverage if your clutch suddenly breaks down.

Ready to buy auto insurance that covers clutch replacement? Enter your ZIP code into our free tool below to compare rates from the most affordable auto insurance companies near you.