Buying a car is a significant investment, and protecting it from day-to-day risks is just as important as the purchase itself. A comprehensive car insurance policy covers a wide range of situations, but it may still leave some gaps. That’s where add-ons come in—these optional covers provide additional protection for specific needs like zero depreciation, engine damage, or roadside assistance.

With TATA AIG, enhancing your policy is both simple and effective. During purchase or car insurance policy renewal online, customers can easily include valuable add-ons that suit their driving habits and location. Features such as a 2-click quote process, up to 85% discount on new vehicle insurance, and a car garage count of 5,900 make the experience seamless. These add-ons help reduce out-of-pocket costs and ensure you're covered for more than just the basics.

What Is an Add-On in Comprehensive Car Insurance?

An add-on is an additional feature that can be included in a base car insurance policy at an extra cost. These riders allow policyholders to extend their coverage beyond the standard inclusions. While a comprehensive policy already covers damage to the insured vehicle, third-party liabilities, and personal accident cover for the owner-driver, add-ons fill the gaps left by these standard benefits.

Why Add-Ons Are Important

Despite the wide coverage of comprehensive car insurance, policyholders can still face out-of-pocket expenses in the event of an accident, breakdown, or theft. For instance, expenses such as depreciation deductions, towing charges, or replacement of keys may not be covered unless the respective add-ons are opted for. Hence, customising the policy with suitable riders provides better protection and reduces financial stress during unforeseen incidents.

Top Add-On Covers to Consider

To get the most out of your comprehensive car insurance, it’s worth exploring these popular add-ons that offer targeted protection and added convenience.

1. Zero Depreciation Cover

One of the most sought-after add-ons, the Zero Depreciation Cover ensures that the policyholder gets the full claim amount without any deduction for depreciation on replaced car parts. Typically, insurers like TATA AIG deduct depreciation while settling claims for parts such as rubber, plastic, fibre, and metal components. However, with this add-on, the full cost of part replacement is reimbursed.

This cover is especially useful for new cars or vehicles under five years of age and is recommended for anyone seeking maximum reimbursement without out-of-pocket expenses during repairs.

2. Return to Invoice Cover

In the unfortunate event of total loss or theft of the car, the base policy only pays the Insured Declared Value (IDV), which is lower than the on-road price. The Return to Invoice add-on bridges this gap by reimbursing the difference between the IDV and the original invoice value of the vehicle. It also includes road tax and first-time registration charges.

This rider is ideal for those buying a new car, ensuring minimal financial loss in case of a total write-off or theft.

3. Engine Secure Cover

Waterlogging and oil leakage can lead to severe damage to the car’s engine, gearbox, and transmission components. Engine repairs can be expensive and are not usually covered under a standard comprehensive policy. The Engine Secure add-on provides protection for internal parts of the engine and other critical assemblies due to water ingress or lubricant leakage.

Car owners residing in flood-prone areas or regions with heavy rainfall will particularly benefit from this add-on.

4. Tyre Secure Cover

This cover reimburses the cost of repair or replacement of tyres and tubes in case of accidental damage. The compensation is based on the remaining tread depth of the tyre and includes service and labour charges.

Given that tyres are prone to damage from potholes, sharp objects, and poor roads, this add-on proves beneficial for those who drive frequently or on uneven terrains.

5. Key Replacement Cover

Losing car keys or facing a break-in can be more than just an inconvenience—it can be costly. The Key Replacement Cover takes care of the expenses involved in replacing lost or stolen keys and locks, including labour charges.

This rider is especially useful in urban areas where theft or misplacement of keys is more common.

6. Roadside Assistance Cover

Being stranded on a highway due to a flat tyre, a dead battery, or a mechanical failure can be stressful. Roadside Assistance provides 24/7 emergency help, including on-the-spot repairs, towing services, fuel delivery, spare key retrieval, and even taxi services to reach home or the nearest city.

Roadside Assistance is an essential add-on for people who travel long distances, frequently drive in remote locations, or simply want peace of mind during daily commutes.

7. Daily Allowance Plus

If the insured vehicle is in the garage for repairs due to an accident, this add-on offers a daily travel allowance for up to 15 days. It helps manage transportation costs during the period the car is unavailable.

An alternative to the travel allowance is the option for a Courtesy or Hire Car, which the insurer arranges to reduce inconvenience.

8. Loss of Personal Belongings

Accidents or break-ins can lead to the loss of personal items inside the vehicle. This rider reimburses the cost of such belongings, like audio/video CDs, gadgets, and personal items. However, valuables like jewellery, money, credit/debit cards, or business-related goods are excluded.

This add-on is suitable for families and individuals who carry electronic items or personal belongings in their cars regularly.

9. Emergency Transport and Hotel Expenses

If the insured vehicle becomes immobile due to an accident during a journey, this rider covers hotel expenses and transportation costs incurred to reach the destination or return home. The benefit is applicable only when the main vehicle damage is covered under the policy.

It’s a thoughtful inclusion for people who often take road trips or travel long distances by car.

10. Consumables Expenses Cover

Consumables like engine oil, nuts, bolts, brake oil, filters, lubricants, and air conditioner gas often need to be replaced after an accident. These are not covered under a standard policy. The Consumables Expenses add-on ensures these costs are reimbursed, provided there’s a valid own-damage claim and the car is repaired at an authorised garage.

It’s a practical addition for anyone looking to reduce maintenance expenses after a claim-worthy incident.

When to Add These Covers?

Add-ons can be selected while buying a new policy or at the time of car insurance policy renewal online. Policyholders should evaluate their driving habits, location, vehicle age, and usage patterns to choose the right combination of add-ons. For instance, someone living in a coastal area may prioritise Engine Secure and RSA, while a city dweller may benefit more from Key Replacement and Loss of Personal Belongings.

Conclusion

Enhancing comprehensive car insurance with the right add-ons ensures that the vehicle owner is well-protected from not just common risks, but also lesser-expected scenarios that can result in financial strain. These optional covers allow policyholders to customise their protection based on their individual requirements and vehicle usage.

While it does require paying a slightly higher premium, the extended benefits offered through these riders are well worth the additional cost. Ultimately, it empowers the vehicle owner to drive with greater confidence, knowing they’re covered from all angles.