Alloy wheel insurance is an inexpensive supplementary policy designed to cover the costs associated with repairs to alloy wheels when they are damaged by curbs. By opting for this coverage, no claims would need to be filed under your normal car policy, potentially impacting its no-claim discount and impacting on its no-claim discount.
1. Cover for Pre-Existing Damage
Alloy wheel insurance is a special policy that can cover the costs associated with cosmetic damage to alloy wheels, such as scuffing and scraping. It can be particularly helpful for drivers who purchase their vehicle with financing (PCP) arrangements as scuffs can diminish its overall value.
Alloy wheel repair policies often allow for multiple refurbishments during their policy period or provide a contribution towards replacing wheels if repairs cannot be performed. However, policies often exclude certain styles of alloy wheels before purchasing one – so be mindful when considering this purchase option.
2. Cover for Damage to Tyres
Not all insurance providers provide coverage for damage to tyres; however, some policies offer it. This coverage can be especially beneficial when fitted with expensive performance, luxury or larger tyres which tend to cost more than standard rubber.
Tyre and Alloy Wheel Insurance typically costs PS65-PS90 annually and is often included with car maintenance plans. Not only can it help drivers reduce repair costs, but it may also prevent costly end-of-contract charges at the end of a lease contract agreement.
3. Cover for Damage to Wheel Nuts
Scuffed and damaged alloy wheels not only look unsightly but can also lower the value of your vehicle. Tyre and Alloy Wheel Insurance provides peace of mind to drivers by covering repairs should they become necessary.
If the damage to your alloy wheels is beyond repair, this policy can cover up to PS150 including VAT towards their replacement costs. Claims are subject to policy terms and conditions and this insurance does not cover non-standard, modified, or painted wheels.
4. Cover for Damage to Brakes
Alloy wheel insurance typically provides for an agreed-upon number of repairs or refurbishments during any given time period, although coverage can differ between providers. Some policies even contribute towards covering the costs of purchasing a replacement alloy wheel if one becomes beyond repair.
This type of cover is an appealing option for drivers who wish to avoid filing claims on their car insurance and losing their no-claims bonus, or who are liable for repair costs at the end of a lease or PCP contract. However, non-standard alloy wheels, modifications, or painting could invalidate your policy; further information can be found within your policy documents.
5. Cover for Damage to Centre Caps
As with tyre insurance, alloy wheel coverage is often upsold by car dealers as an add-on option for drivers on PCP agreements or lease cars to help avoid costly penalties due to damaged wheels when returning their car at the end of its contract. Most alloy wheel policies provide multiple refurbishment claims per year as well as contributing towards any replacement costs should one be necessary.
As with your main car policy, the terms and conditions of alloy wheel policies can differ between providers. Therefore, it is vitally important that before making your decision it is carefully assessed by an insurance representative before purchasing any such products.
6. Cover for Damage to Hub Caps
Alloy Wheel Insurance offers an efficient and cost-effective solution to cover repair costs. By eliminating excess fees, protecting no-claim bonuses, and not altering future premiums – making this policy an affordable alternative to traditional policies.
Some wheels or hub caps may be excluded from coverage, including alloys installed on motorbikes, scooters, three wheeled vehicles, quad bikes or caravans as well as those which are recessed, machine polished, rebated or raised in their rim section or have plastic trims attached – as well as any that have been damaged due to driving on flat or under-inflated tyres.
Checking the terms and conditions of any policy to ensure you have adequate protection is key to having a fulfilling experience.
7. Cover for Damage to Brake Lines
Alloy wheels and tyres are some of the hardest components on your car to keep looking new, even with regular washing and rinsing. Doing this helps minimize road dirt and salt damage while also protecting them against everyday mistakes, incidents, or accidents that might happen on the road.
Your car insurance policy might allow for alloy and tyre damage claims, but these typically come with an excess that exceeds repair costs, plus making a claim may affect your no claims bonus and increase premiums over time. Stand-alone alloy wheel and tyre coverage provides more cost-effective coverage solutions.
8. Cover for Damage to Centre Caps
Alloy wheel insurance is a form of car insurance designed to cover damage to the wheels and tyres on your vehicle, such as wheel alignment. It can be particularly helpful for people driving cars with expensive or rare alloy wheels as it can cover repair bills in case they become damaged.
Alloy wheel insurance policies typically cover the costs associated with repairing and refurbishing alloy wheels up to an agreed-upon limit in their terms and conditions, as well as contributing towards their replacement should yours become beyond repair.
They can be particularly useful for drivers on PCP/lease agreements who could otherwise incur penalty fees when it’s time to return the car at the end of its term.
Conclusion
Alloy wheel insurance may seem like a small add-on, but it offers a range of practical benefits—especially for drivers with PCP or lease agreements. For anyone looking to avoid steep end-of-lease penalties or simply maintain their car’s value and appearance, alloy wheel insurance is well worth considering.
