Your car has decided to make some weird sounds. You’re hoping it’s covered by your warranty but you’re actually not sure if it’s a mechanical breakdown or just wear and tear. 

When it comes to car warranty claims, knowing the difference between a mechanical breakdown and wear and tear makes the fine print and your claim outcome easier to understand. 

 

What is a Mechanical Breakdown? 

Mechanical breakdowns happen when a component in your vehicle suddenly fails due to a defect or malfunction. The part wasn’t worn out; it stopped doing its job properly. 

Mechanical breakdown examples include: 

  • Your starter motor seizing up 
  • A sudden turbocharger failure 
  • A malfunctioning timing belt 
  • The water pump breaking. 

These kinds of issues are usually covered by extended warranty insurance if they weren’t caused by neglect, skipped services or pre-existing damage. 

RELATED: EXTENDED CAR WARRANTY VS SERVICE PLAN 

 

What Does Mechanical Breakdown Insurance Cover? 

At dotsure.co.za, our extended warranty plans are designed to cover sudden, unexpected mechanical or electrical failures and not parts that have worn down over time from normal use. 

That’s why regular servicing and maintenance records are essential if you want your claim to be paid. And if a car part fails out of the blue, you have peace of mind that you’ve got cover to help with the nasty repair bills. 

Are you already covered? You can log in to manage your policy anytime. Not covered, yet? Get a quote now before the unexpected happens. 

 

Understanding Wear and Tear on Vehicles 

Wear and tear are expected because every car experiences them. It’s not a fault, it’s more like a pair of running shoes with holes in them: they’ve had their moment, and now it’s time for a new pair. 

What is considered a wear and tear item on a vehicle? 

It’s the car parts that gradually degrade over time, such as: 

  • Brake pads 
  • Clutch plates 
  • Tyres 
  • Wiper blades 
  • Shock absorbers 
  • Fan belts. 

Most warranty plans do not cover these because they’re meant to be replaced periodically as part of standard vehicle maintenance. 

 

Common Scenarios: Breakdown vs. Wear 

Let’s clear it up with a few quick comparisons. 

Scenario  Mechanical Breakdown?  Wear and Tear? 
Your engine’s water pump fails suddenly.  ✅  ❌ 
Your clutch starts slipping after 80 000 km.  ❌  ✅ 
The starter motor burns out without warning.  ✅  ❌ 
The brake pads are worn below the minimum thickness.  ❌  ✅ 

 

Does Insurance Ever Cover Wear and Tear? 

It’s rare, but some comprehensive motor or wear and tear insurance products offer limited cover for these components. At dotsure.co.za, our extended warranty focuses on mechanical or electrical breakdowns or failures. 

If you want to know more, check your policy documents or contact our team for help if you’re unsure what your plan includes. 

RELATED: COMMON WARRANTY EXCLUSIONS AND LIMITATIONS 

 

Drive with the Warranty Experts 

Understanding the difference between mechanical breakdown and wear and tear can help you avoid surprises when claiming. 

And if you're not yet protected? Don't wait for the clunk. Get extended warranty cover today and drive with a warranty!