Insurance for a 4WD

What should you consider when looking for  insurance for a 4WD?

As well as the usual considerations when buying insurance, 4WD owners could give special thought to some other important points, such as;

• Has your vehicle been modified? From special tyres to any engine modifications or suspension upgrades. All such things will have to be declared to your insurer. They will also have to be compliant with all legal requirements. If your car isn’t legal at the time of an accident, then your insurer is unlikely to approve a claim. It’s important to note that some insurers will not cover vehicles with these types of modifications
• Are your accessories covered? If you have accessories such as a bull bar , you should check that your accessories are covered
• Is your windscreen covered? This is often included in Comprehensive policies, or you can add it on as an option.
• Agreed or market value? Some insurers give you the option to insure for agreed value instead of market value. This means that in the event of a write-off, the insurer will pay you the agreed sum to replace your car rather than the current market value.

Be sure to review the Product Disclosure Statement to understand policy exclusions and limitations before deciding on a policy.

What won’t insurance for your 4WD cover?

There are several things that your insurance won’t cover, some of these are listed below.

• Mechanical faults: Car Insurance won’t cover you for any mechanical faults that aren’t the result of a motor accident. Pay close attention to your policy and ask your provider for specific details on what is and what is not covered.

• Will your insurance cover off-road use? Whether you’re going bush-bashing or sand-surfing on the beach, you should make sure that your insurer covers such use. It’s important to note that many insurers will not cover this type of use.

• Modifications: If you’ve modified your 4WD in any way that isn’t standard, or used non-standard equipment, then you need to notify your insurer. In many cases, insurers may not offer cover for a vehicle with certain modifications. Some insurers may offer cover for modified vehicles however may attach further conditions on the policy in doing so.

• Be safe, tell your insurer everything: The best way to make sure you’re adequately insured for your needs is to discuss it with your insurance provider. Tell them of any changes you make to the vehicle (even after you’ve taken out a policy) and, if you’re wary of using your vehicle for a certain thing, talk to them and see if you’re covered. That way, you’ll know.

• Track or sport use: If you’ll be participating in any 4WD competitions or testing over tracks, then check exactly what usage your insurer is prepared to cover.

Be sure to review the Product Disclosure Statement to understand policy exclusions and limitations before deciding on a policy.

What types of Car Insurance is available for 4WDs?

As mentioned above, in general, 4WDs have similar options for insurance as any car in Australia. There are generally four main types.

Compulsory Third Party Insurance (CTP)

This is mandatory insurance for every driver in Australia and in some states it’s paid automatically whenever you register your car. It covers you in the case of accidental injury or death to another person caused by your driving. It will help pay for medical costs as the result of an accident, but it will not pay for any property damage.

Third Party Property Damage (TPP)

Third Party Property insurance helps cover damage to other people’s vehicles and property caused by your vehicle in an accident. It doesn’t cover damages to your 4WD or property though, so if you accidentally bash into a tree or a rock, you may need to pay a big repair bill.

Third Party Fire and Theft (TPF&T)

Third Party Fire and Theft insurance helps cover third party property damage as above, but also helps cover your 4WD if it is stolen or damaged by fire. Remember, though, this insurance still doesn’t cover damage caused to your vehicle in an at fault accident.

Comprehensive

Whether you’re off-road or on, the highest cover available is Comprehensive insurance. It helps cover you whether an accident is your fault or not, and can cover damage to other people’s property and vehicles, as well as your own. In some cases, it also covers events like hail or storm damage. A Comprehensive policy often has the option to add extras to your cover like a hire car or roadside assistance. This table gives you an instant look at what each policy could cover.

Be sure to review the Product Disclosure Statement to understand policy exclusions and limitations before deciding on a policy.

So how do I compare Car Insurance for my 4WD?

With all that in mind, we’re ready to compare Car Insurance. Simply use iSelect online to compare and select an insurer, or we can help you over the phone. Call 13 19 20 and let’s go!

Last updated: 19/08/2021