If you notice your vehicle’s brakes are squeaking, the oil light is flashing, or you are skipping the much-needed garage visit, it could lead to serious problems such as expensive repairs, lower insurance covers, and worst of all, accidents.
In this blog, we will break down the key aspects of car maintenance and things you need to know about car repair options and motor insurance implications.
Why regular car maintenance matters
When your car is not properly maintained, it can lead to malfunctioning of essential parts. Regular maintenance can keep your rides smooth, safe, and efficient. Here’s how:
- Ensures safety on the go: Performing scheduled car maintenance can reduce the chances of incidents like tire bursts, suspension issues, and brake failures. It further enhances your protection while driving through extreme weather conditions, dusty terrain, and at night. Your safety is our priority. Read more on how to drive safely here.
- Helps avoid costly repair: Ignoring small mechanical issues could lead to expensive repairs and even cause dangerous accidents. Remember, if an accident occurs due to poor maintenance, like worn-out-brakes, your motor insurance plan may cover the resulting damage (if any) but not the cause.
- Enhances performance: Taking time to perform regular inspections, and servicing tires, braking systems, batteries, and other components can keep your vehicle’s performance optimal. This would provide you with better tire traction, stable steering, and overall driving comfort.
- Reduces fuel consumption: Well-maintained vehicles can improve fuel efficiency. Clean air filters, well-tuned engines, timely oil changes, and properly inflated tires can all contribute toward improved mileage and reduced fuel usage.
Know your car repair options: What happens after a breakdown
From routine maintenance to emergency repairs due to unexpected breakdowns or accidents, knowing your repair options can save you time and confusion.
Regular maintenance, as discussed, is a proactive approach with routine checks and scheduled maintenance. However, while repairing your car post-breakdown or accident, it is beneficial to have clarity on your repair channels, especially in relation to your insurance claims. They are:
1. If your vehicle is less than one year old, it will be eligible for agency or dealership repairs and your vehicle would receive new parts.
2. If your vehicle is over one year old, your motor insurance would cover the repair with authorised garages that would opt for refurbished or used parts. However, you have the option to receive new parts by paying the depreciation charges based on your car’s age. Additionally, you may have to sign a consent form, conveying your willingness to pay the extra amount.
Always check your insurer’s garage list. View Salama’s list of authorised garages in the UAE here.
Why is the right motor insurance cover non-negotiable
Even when you drive safely and take necessary precautions, unexpected incidents could still happen. That is why it is essential to have a reliable motor insurance plan.
At Salama, we offer motor insurance plans you can tailor based on your needs:
1. Third-party liability plan: Basic protection against injury/damage to others.
2. Comprehensive plan: Includes third-party protection and coverage for your loss/damage.
Our comprehensive plan has just become even better with added benefits like:
1. Natural calamity protection,
2. Emergency medical coverage,
3. Lock replacement, and more.
Plus, you can now avail up to 20% off while insuring your SUV with us. Having the right motor insurance plan along with regular check-ups and car maintenance can provide you with a protective shield against the unexpected.
Explore more about our Auto Takaful plans here and choose the right level of protection for your journey.
