Key Takeaways:
- Anyone with a roadworthy vehicle up to 15 years old or 350,000km can qualify for coverage.
- Your premium is based on your vehicle’s specific model, age, and mileage.
- Bidvest Insurance offers comprehensive Mechanical Warranty Cover with reasonable limits.
Protecting your vehicle from unexpected breakdowns doesn’t have to be complicated. If you’re wondering whether you qualify for a Mechanical Warranty, the answer depends on your vehicle meeting our eligibility requirements: your vehicle must be no older than 15 years and have travelled no more than 350,000 kilometres.
Basic Qualification Requirements
The primary requirement for qualifying for a Mechanical Warranty from Bidvest Insurance is that your vehicle must be roadworthy and meet our eligibility criteria. Your vehicle must be no older than 15 years and have mileage no higher than 350,000 kilometres.
Unlike many other warranty providers who impose strict age or mileage limitations, we understand that South African drivers are keeping their vehicles longer.
What Factors Affect Your Premium?
Vehicle-Specific Calculations
Your Mechanical Warranty premium is tailored to your unique circumstances. Three main factors influence your monthly cost:
- Vehicle model: Different makes and models have varying reliability records and repair costs. Our actuaries consider these factors when calculating your premium.
- Vehicle age: Older vehicles typically face higher risks of mechanical failure, which is reflected in the premium structure.
- Current mileage: Higher mileage vehicles have experienced more wear and tear, influencing the premium calculation.
Affordable Warranty Protection
With Bidvest Insurance, you can get a Motor Warranty from as little as R299 per month. This cost-effective protection can save you thousands when major components like engines, gearboxes, or turbochargers fail unexpectedly.
Understanding Your Coverage
Comprehensive Component Protection
A Mechanical Warranty provides coverage for mechanical or electrical breakdowns that occur after your Manufacturer’s Warranty expires. Coverage includes:
- Engine components
- Gearboxes
- Steering mechanisms
- Braking systems
- Suspensions
- Fuel systems
*Please refer to the policy wording of your specific warranty to ensure you know exactly what is covered.
Additional Benefits
Beyond the core mechanical and electrical coverage, your Motor Warranty includes valuable breakdown and roadside assistance services:
Breakdown Services
- Breakdown towing: If your vehicle experiences a breakdown, we’ll tow it to the nearest accredited repairer up to a value of R2,000 per breakdown (limited to 2 breakdown towing services per year).
- Hotel accommodation or car hire: If you break down more than 100 kilometres from your permanent residence, you’re entitled to claim a refund for hotel accommodation or car hire (Category B vehicle only) up to R2,000 per breakdown.
- Courtesy vehicle: If your authorised repairs aren’t completed within 48 hours, we’ll arrange a courtesy vehicle (Category B) from an approved car hire company for up to 5 days per claim whilst your vehicle is being repaired.
Roadside Assistance Services
- Flat tyre assistance: We’ll dispatch a response vehicle to help change your flat tyre (limited to a call-out fee and 1 hour of labour up to R2,000).
- Flat battery assistance: Need a quick boost? We’ll send a response vehicle to jump-start your vehicle (limited to a call-out fee and 1 hour of labour up to R2,000).
- Delivery of fuel: If you run out of fuel, we’ll deliver enough fuel to reach the closest fuel station, up to a maximum of 10 litres (fuel cost is for your own account).
- Locksmith services: If you’ve locked your keys inside your vehicle, we’ll dispatch a locksmith to retrieve them (this is a refund-only benefit up to R2,000).
These roadside assistance services are limited to 2 services per year. All breakdown and roadside assistance services must be arranged via our 24-hour assistance services call centre on 0861 860 861 (except hotel accommodation or car hire, which is a refundable benefit you arrange yourself).
*Please refer to the policy wording of your specific warranty to ensure you know exactly what is covered.
Why You Need A Mechanical Warranty
Protection Against Costly Repairs
The eye-watering repair and replacement bills associated with mechanical or electrical failure can devastate your budget. Major components like engines and gearboxes can cost tens of thousands of Rands to replace.
Peace Of Mind
South African drivers understand the importance of reliable transportation. Whether you’re commuting to work or embarking on a family holiday, knowing you’re protected against unexpected breakdowns provides invaluable peace of mind.
Extending Vehicle Life
Regular maintenance combined with warranty protection helps extend your vehicle’s lifespan. When repairs are covered, you’re more likely to address issues promptly rather than postponing them due to cost concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Get A Mechanical Warranty For Any Vehicle?
You can qualify for a Mechanical Warranty if your vehicle is roadworthy, registered in South Africa, and meets our eligibility criteria of being no older than 15 years with mileage under 350,000 kilometres.
How Much Does A Mechanical Warranty Cost?
Premiums start from R299 per month but vary based on your vehicle’s make, model, age, and mileage. Contact us for a personalised quote that reflects your specific circumstances.
What’s Not Covered?
Like all insurance products, certain exclusions apply. These typically include wear-and-tear items like tyres, brake pads, and routine maintenance. Unauthorised repairs and damage from misuse or negligence are also excluded.
Is There A Waiting Period?
Yes. A 30 day waiting period applies after the successful collection of 2 consecutive premiums before cover commences.
Don’t wait for an unexpected breakdown to highlight the importance of mechanical protection. Whether you’re driving a nearly new vehicle or keeping an older car on the road, a Mechanical Warranty from Bidvest Insurance provides the financial protection you need.
Get your personalised Mechanical Warranty quote today and join thousands of South African drivers who trust Bidvest Insurance to protect their vehicles and their budgets.
