Mechanical Breakdown Insurance FAQs

What is Mechanical Breakdown Insurance?

Mechanical Breakdown Insurance is an insurance policy that protects you from unexpected costs in the event that your car has a sudden and unforseen breakdown.

Cover is available for different types and categories of vehicles. Some vehicles may require an additional premium to be paid. Speak to one of our advisers for more information about the type of vehicles covered, special conditions and pricing which apply.

Does the policy include the cost of both parts and labour?

Yes. The cover is comprehensive and includes parts and labour, towing, AA roadservice & 24/7 breakdown assistance, plus accommodation and rental car costs for out of town breakdowns. Speak to one of our advisers for more information about the components and services included in the cover.

Do I need to service my car?

Yes. It is a condition of the policy that you comply with the first service and ongoing service requirements which must be carried out by an independent service centre. As a guide it would normally be every 10,000km or 15,000km or 12 months. This requirement will be noted in the policy document. 

If there is no service history with the vehicle, we recommend having the service done soon after purchase as best practise. 

Full service requirements, including information on who can service your car, are outlined in the policy terms. We recommend that all vehicles be serviced in order to maintain safety and reliability, whether they have a mechanical breakdown policy or not. 

What is an excess?

An excess is the amount you are required to pay (self insurance) in respect of each unrelated claim. Every policy has an excess. 

Is my policy refundable or transferable?

If you are not completely happy with the cover provided by your policy, you can cancel it within 15 days of the start of the period of insurance, provided you have not made a claim under your policy. After that the policy is not refundable.

If you sell your car privately you may be able to transfer your Mechanical Breakdown Insurance policy to the new owner, however the insurer has absolute discretion as to whether they will allow a transfer of your policy to another person. Please refer to the policy wording for full policy terms and conditions.

How much does the policy cost?

We have a number of policy options, so the premium will depend on the make/model of vehicle, the age and mileage, the term of cover and excess option selected. Speak to one of our advisers to discuss the option that suits you best.

Can my policy be renewed after it has expired?

You may purchase another policy after the original policy has expired, provided there are no inherent faults with your vehicle at that time. We reserve the right to request a vehicle inspection report to confirm the vehicle is in sound mechanical condition prior to allowing its renewal. Speak with one of our advisers about renewing your policy.

Can I get Mechanical Breakdown Insurance if I buy my car from any dealer?

Yes. You can get Mechanical Breakdown Insurance for a vehicle. Speak to one of our advisers for more information. Mechanical Breakdown Insurance can also be included in your loan.

How can I get Mechanical Breakdown Insurance?

You can get insurance via SUN INSURANCE nationwide. Speak to one of our advisers to discuss the best vehicle protection for you. 

Mechanical Breakdown Insurance can also be included in your loan.

Can I get Mechanical Breakdown Insurance with my loan?

Yes. Mechanical Breakdown Insurance can be included in your loan.

If I need to cancel my policy, can I get a refund?

If you are not completely happy with the cover provided by your policy, you can cancel it within 15 days of the start of the period of insurance, provided you have not made a claim under your policy. After that the policy is not refundable.

I’ve moved house. How do I update my policy address with you?

You can call us on 09 360 5555 or 0273 000666 and we’ll be happy to change the contact address we have for you.

How do I make a claim?

Simply follow these steps:

1. If you need roadside assistance the number to call will depend on the insurer, and provide your policy number, vehicle registration and current odometer reading. Please call SUN INSURANCE on 09 360 5555 or 0273 000666 or e mail us to confirm the contact details.

2. They will help you find your nearest Authorised Repairer (all repairs must be carried out by an Authorised Repairer).

3. If the vehicle can be driven safely without causing further damage, take it to the nearest Authorised Repairer. If not arrange to have it towed (some policies have cover for towing included).

4. Present your policy to the repairer to determine if the breakdown constitutes a claim and request the repairer contacts SUN INSURANCE or the underwriter directly.

5. You may be required to complete a claim form and provide other documentation, such as proof of servicing and other relevant invoices.

6. If the repairer can’t determine the fault it may be necessary to dismantle parts. If this is the case SUN INSURANCE must be notified, however, only you can authorise the dismantling to be carried out. Please note: The contract for repair is between you and the repairer. Any costs not covered by the policy (including your excess), must be paid to the repairer at the completion of the repairs.

NOTE: Any repairs commenced without the prior approval of the underwriter are excluded from cover.

Will all of my claim be covered?

Please refer to the “What you are not insured for” section of the policy wording for a detailed list of exclusions.

If a repairer needs to dismantle the car, who will pay for the cost?

You would be responsible for the initial dismantling cost until the cause of the breakdown is known. If the cause means that your claim is accepted, The underwriter will pay for this cost.