Owning a car comes with responsibilities and costs, and one crucial aspect is securing four-wheeler insurance. When obtaining such car insurance, car inspections often come into play, providing a comprehensive evaluation of the vehicle’s mechanical, electrical, and safety systems. Knowing when and why these inspections are necessary can significantly impact your driving experience and insurance choices. You can utilise a car insurance premium calculator to estimate the premiums when buying a policy.
What Is A Car Inspection?
A car inspection involves a detailed assessment of a vehicle’s mechanical, electrical, and safety systems, ensuring its roadworthiness. Insurance companies may require these inspections to evaluate the vehicle’s current state before providing coverage. Four-wheeler insurance is mandatory in India, making inspections a common practice during policy acquisition.
When Is A Car Inspection Necessary?
Car inspections are typically required in various situations:
- End-of-Term or Renewing Policies: When carrying out the car insurance renewal process of an expired or lapsed insurance policy, a thorough inspection ensures that the insurance company evaluates any changes in vehicle condition during the uninsured period, ensuring accurate policy pricing and sufficient coverage.
- Change Of Ownership: During a change in ownership, especially for pre-owned cars, an inspection safeguards the new owner’s insurance interests by verifying the vehicle’s condition and any modifications made by the prior owner.
- Switching Insurance Plans: When upgrading from a basic to a comprehensive car insurance plan, an inspection is necessary to determine if the extended coverage aligns with the vehicle’s current state and any added features.
- Changes Or Additional Accessories: Modifications such as bi-fuel kits require inspection to align the insurance policy with the altered vehicle, ensuring proper coverage for new features and an accurate depiction of the car’s condition.
- Inspection After An Accident: Before any repair work post-accident, a surveyor’s inspection is essential to evaluate damages, ensuring compliance with insurance policy terms and facilitating accurate claims processing.
Car Inspection Techniques:
Insurance companies typically employ two main inspection techniques, self-inspection and third-party inspection:
Self-Inspection: Vehicle owners provide pictures of the vehicle’s condition to the insurance company.
Third-Party Inspection: Conducted by an insurance company employee or an inspection agency on the provider’s behalf.
Various vehicle inspections exist, including courtesy inspections focusing on essential components, insurance inspections required in many Indian states for older cars, and comprehensive 12-point inspections covering multiple areas like fluids, tyres, lights, and engine components.
Situations without Inspection Requirement:
Certain situations may not necessitate a car inspection. New cars, usually in factory-new condition, might not need immediate inspection, though regional laws or insurance specifications can alter this exemption. Some third-party car insurance online, particularly for basic coverage, may not require inspections. Continuous periods between policy renewals also eliminate the need for inspections. Claims are subject to terms and conditions set forth under the motor insurance policy. *
Regular car inspections for vehicle longevity, regulatory compliance, and road safety contribute to a reliable driving experience. Comprehensive inspections ensure safety, detect potential issues, and preserve the vehicle’s value, offering peace of mind. Understanding their importance positively impacts insurance choices and driving experiences. Adherence to local laws and confirming insurance coverage eligibility are essential aspects influenced by awareness of car inspections.
*Standard T&C Apply
Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet and is subject to changes. Please consult an expert before making any related decisions.
Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.
