Tata AIG Sapphire Plus Plan – Add-On Covers Explained & Key Exclusions
Introduction
When you choose Tata AIG’s “Sapphire Plus” motor insurance plan, you’re opting for a higher-level bundle of add-on covers that go beyond the standard comprehensive policy (Own Damage + Third-Party liability). These add-ons protect extra components or scenarios (tyres, engine, personal belongings, travel/hotel costs, etc.). Below we walk through each included add-on in the Sapphire Plus bundle, explain what each means, and then highlight major exclusions and tips to help your readers decide wisely.
What are Add-On Covers?
Add-on covers (sometimes called “riders”) are optional extensions to the base motor insurance policy. They address risks or costs that the standard policy either excludes or covers only partially. Because they widen the scope of protection, they come with additional premium cost. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Add-Ons in the Sapphire Plus Plan – Definitions
- Consumable Expenses
Definition: Covers small, routinely replaced ‘consumable’ items used during repair (e.g., engine oil, coolants, filters, nuts & bolts, lubricants) which are normally excluded under a standard OD claim. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Why important: These items can add up in repair bills, especially for premium or imported cars. - Depreciation Reimbursement
Definition: Also known as Zero Depreciation cover in effect—this add-on reimburses the difference arising from the depreciation deduction on replaced parts under an own damage claim. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Why important: Reduces your out-of-pocket cost when expensive parts (plastic, fibre, rubber) are replaced. - Emergency Transport & Hotel Expenses
Definition: Covers the reasonable cost of transport (tow, taxi, etc) and hotel accommodation if your insured vehicle becomes unusable while you’re travelling (away from home) due to an insured event. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
Why important: Helps when you’re stranded away from home with the vehicle needing repair or recovery. - Engine Secure
Definition: Covers damage to the engine caused by specified insured perils (for example water ingress, oil leaks due to insured event) which are often excluded in standard OD cover. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Why important: Engine repairs are expensive—this add-on adds a key layer of protection though subject to terms (no neglect/wear & tear cover). - Key Replacement
Definition: Pays for replacement of lost or stolen keys / remote / immobiliser (where specified) of your vehicle. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Why important: Modern vehicle keys and remotes are costly to replace—this cover helps ease that burden. - Loss of Personal Belongings
Definition: Covers damage to or theft of personal belongings kept in the insured vehicle (subject to policy terms). :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
Why important: Your base vehicle OD policy doesn’t usually cover your private items inside the car—this rider fills that gap. - Repair of Glass, Plastic, Fibre & Rubber
Definition: Covers repair or replacement of non-metallic body and structural parts such as glass, plastic trims, fibre and rubber parts which otherwise attract heavy depreciation or may be partially excluded. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
Why important: These parts can incur high costs and heavy depreciation in standard claims—this add-on improves cover. - Road Side Assistance
Definition: Emergency on-road services such as towing, jump-start, flat tyre change, fuel delivery, minor repairs at breakdown site. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
Why important: Adds convenience and timely help when you are stranded or breakdown away from home. - Tyre Secure
Definition: Covers damage or replacement cost of tyres of your insured vehicle arising out of insured events (puncture, burst, etc) as detailed in policy. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
Why important: Tyre replacement (especially for premium models or rough terrain) can be a significant cost—this add-on helps mitigate that risk.
Summary Table – What This Bundle Offers
| Add-On Cover | Included in Sapphire Plus |
|---|---|
| Consumable Expenses | ✔ |
| Depreciation Reimbursement | ✔ |
| Emergency Transport & Hotel Expenses | ✔ |
| Engine Secure | ✔ |
| Key Replacement | ✔ |
| Loss of Personal Belongings | ✔ |
| Repair of Glass, Plastic, Fibre & Rubber | ✔ |
| Road Side Assistance | ✔ |
| Tyre Secure | ✔ |
Key Exclusions & Conditions to Watch
Even with these add-ons, the policy will have standard exclusions and specific conditions. Some of these include:
- Damage due to wear & tear, gradual deterioration, corrosion, mechanical or electrical failure not caused by a covered peril. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
- Claims resulting from driving without a valid licence, or under influence of alcohol/drugs. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
- Use of vehicle outside the permitted geographical area or for unlawful use. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
- For each add-on: terms such as vehicle age, garage authorisation, number of claims per year, etc., may apply.
E.g., for Zero Depreciation/Depreciation Reimbursement: vehicle may need to be under 5 years old. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14} - For Loss of Personal Belongings: limits per item, exclusion if car is unlocked/unattended, etc.
Tips for Policy-Holders / Readers
- Read the exact add-on wordings: Each add-on has specific terms, caps, and conditions—ensure you understand them.
- Match add-ons to your vehicle & usage: If you drive long-distance often, Emergency Transport & Hotel or Road Side Assistance become more relevant. If you have a premium car, Tyre Secure/Depreciation Reimbursement/Consumables matter more.
- Check impact on premium & No Claim Bonus (NCB): More add-ons = higher premium. Understand how claims under add-ons might affect your NCB.
- Ensure authorised garages and valid bills: Some add-ons require repairs at network garages or usage of original bills/parts—failure may lead to claim rejection.
- Consider car age & past claims: Some benefits may not be available for older vehicles or vehicles with past major claims.
Conclusion
The “Sapphire Plus” bundle from Tata AIG provides a robust suite of add-on covers that significantly strengthen your vehicle insurance beyond the base policy. From covering consumables to tyre damage, key loss to engine problems, and roadside assistance to travel/hotel costs—you’re better protected. That said, the extra premium you pay requires that you pick add-ons that make sense for *your* vehicle type, usage, and budget. Always verify the latest policy and add-on wordings before you buy.
Note: This article describes general meanings of the add-on covers in the Sapphire Plus plan of Tata AIG. For full eligibility, limits, sub-limits and exclusions, refer to the official Tata AIG policy wordings and the product brochure.
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