Engine Secure Cover in Motor Insurance: Complete Guide, Benefits, Exclusions & Claims
The engine is the heart of your vehicle, and surprisingly, most standard motor insurance policies do not cover engine damage—especially damages caused due to water ingression, hydrostatic lock, or oil leakage. This is where Engine Secure Cover (also called Engine Protection Cover) becomes extremely valuable.
In this post, we’ll explain what Engine Secure Cover is, how it works, what damages it protects against, exclusions, who should buy it, claim process, premium considerations, and more.
What Is Engine Secure Cover in Motor Insurance?
Engine Secure Cover is an add-on that you can purchase with your comprehensive or standalone own-damage motor insurance policy. It provides financial protection specifically for damages to:
- Engine and its internal components
- Transmission system
- Gearbox
- Crankshaft
- Connecting rods
- Pistons
- Cylinder head
- Lubricating system
Standard motor insurance often excludes such damages, especially when caused due to water or oil leakage. Thus, Engine Secure Cover steps in to bear repair/replacement costs that could otherwise run into tens of thousands or even lakhs.
Why Is Engine Secure Cover Important?
Here’s why this add-on has gained popularity:
1️⃣ Monsoon & Flood Protection
Waterlogging during monsoons is a leading cause of engine failure due to hydrostatic lock. Engine Secure Cover protects against it.
2️⃣ Costly Repairs
Modern engines are complex. Repairs to crankshaft, gearbox, or pistons can cost:
- Small cars: ₹25,000 – ₹60,000
- Mid-segment cars: ₹60,000 – ₹1.50 lakh
- Luxury cars/SUVs: Up to ₹3 lakh+
This add-on covers such expensive repairs.
3️⃣ Peace of Mind for New Vehicles
Especially recommended for:
- New cars
- High-end models
- Turbocharged engines
4️⃣ Protection from User Errors
Examples:
- Starting engine while submerged in water
- Driving through deep water
- Continued driving with oil leakage
Standard insurance excludes these, engine cover protects them.
Damages Covered Under Engine Secure Cover
Typically, insurers include:
- Water ingression damage
- Gearbox damage
- Engine seizure due to oil leakage
- Hydrostatic lock
-
Damages to:
- crankshaft
- connecting rods
- pistons
- cylinder head
- valves
- Lubrication system failure
- Replacement of engine parts & consumables
Many plans also cover:
- gearbox replacement labor charges
- engine flushing costs
Exclusions: What Engine Secure Cover DOES NOT Cover
To avoid claim rejection, note exclusions:
- Intentional driving through waterlogged roads
- Trying to restart engine multiple times after stall
- Regular wear & tear
- Corrosion
- Mechanical or manufacturing defects
- Using adulterated fuel
- Repairs without insurer approval
- Delay in reporting the incident
Example: If you see waterlogging and still force your vehicle through it, the insurer can deny claim.
Who Should Buy Engine Secure Cover?
It is especially recommended if:
- You live in flood-prone or coastal areas
- Your city frequently experiences heavy monsoon
- Your vehicle is expensive or premium
- You often drive through waterlogged areas
- You own a new vehicle less than 5 years old
Best suited for:
- SUVs, sedans, turbo engines, luxury cars
- Metropolitan cities (Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Delhi NCR)
Cost of Engine Secure Cover
Premium depends on:
- Vehicle type
- Segment & cubic capacity
- Location (zone)
- IDV (insured declared value)
Typically, it costs around:
- ₹1,500 – ₹3,000 for hatchbacks
- ₹3,000 – ₹6,000 for sedans/SUVs
- ₹6,000+ for luxury vehicles
Considering potential engine repair costs, this is economical.
How to File a Claim Under Engine Secure Cover
Follow these steps for smooth claim:
- Stop the vehicle immediately — Avoid cranking again
- Inform your insurer or agent ASAP
- Do not repair without surveyor’s approval
- Tow the vehicle to an authorized workshop — (do NOT drive it)
- Submit required documents
- Policy copy
- Driving license
- Repair estimate
- Photographs
- Survey report
Cashless or reimbursement settlement is processed.
Real-Life Example
You drove through a waterlogged road. Car stalled. You tried restarting twice → water enters cylinders → bend connecting rod.
Standard insurance = claim rejected. Engine Secure add-on = full repair cover (minus deductible).
Pros & Cons of Engine Secure Cover
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Covers costly engine repairs | Additional premium |
| Ideal for monsoon regions | Claims can be rejected for user negligence |
| Protects gearbox & internal parts | Must report incident quickly |
| Reduces out-of-pocket expenses | Limited to add-on purchase |
| Suitable for new & premium cars | Must follow claim rules strictly |
FAQs: Engine Secure Cover
Is engine damage covered by normal insurance?
No. Basic comprehensive policy excludes water ingression, hydrostatic lock, and oil leakage-related engine damage.
Does this cover oil leakage damage?
Yes—if caused accidentally and not due to negligence.
Can I buy it anytime?
Only at the time of purchase/renewal of own damage policy.
Does it cover gearbox damage?
Yes. Gearbox components and labor charges are often included.
Is it mandatory?
No. But strongly recommended for monsoon zones and new cars.
Conclusion
Engine Secure Cover is a small add-on but provides huge financial safety. For anyone living in monsoon-prone regions, coastal cities, or owning a high-end vehicle, this is one of the most valuable add-ons you can choose in your motor insurance.
It prevents out-of-pocket expenses, protects against mechanical failures due to water or oil issues, and ensures peace of mind while driving.
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