12 things your car insurance doesn’t cover

Core Insights - Standard car insurance does not cover various situations that could leave policyholders financially exposed, including intentional damage, mechanical breakdowns, and personal belongings theft [1][27]. Exclusions in Car Insurance - Intentional damage is not covered, meaning if a driver deliberately causes harm, their insurance will not pay for the damages [3]. - Mechanical and electrical breakdowns are excluded unless a specific policy like mechanical breakdown insurance is purchased [4]. - Maintenance and service costs, such as oil changes, are the owner's responsibility and not covered by standard policies [5]. - Personal belongings inside the vehicle, like laptops or golf clubs, are not covered under auto policies; claims should be filed under homeowners or renters insurance [6]. - Racing or competitive driving is excluded from coverage, with policies typically denying claims related to such activities [5][7]. - Using the vehicle for illegal activities is also excluded, limiting the insurer's liability in criminal situations [8]. - Business use of a personal vehicle is generally not covered under standard policies, requiring separate commercial insurance for business-related driving [9]. - Drivers explicitly excluded from the policy will not be covered if they operate the vehicle [10]. - Overloading the vehicle or gross negligence can lead to claim denials, as insurance is designed for accidents rather than avoidable mistakes [11]. - Custom upgrades to the vehicle may not be covered unless additional coverage is requested [12]. - Losses exceeding policy limits are the responsibility of the policyholder, particularly in liability cases where damages can surpass coverage limits [13][14]. - Deductibles are the financial responsibility of the policyholder, and they must be paid before insurance coverage kicks in [15]. Types of Car Insurance - Property damage liability covers repairs to others' property after an accident caused by the insured, but does not cover the insured's own vehicle [17]. - Bodily injury liability pays for injuries caused to others but does not cover the insured's medical costs [18]. - Comprehensive insurance covers damages from theft, vandalism, or natural events but not from collisions [19]. - Collision insurance pays for repairs to the insured's vehicle after an accident, typically used when the insured is at fault [20]. - Medical payments coverage (MedPay) covers medical costs for the insured and passengers after an accident, regardless of fault [21]. - Personal injury protection (PIP) covers injury-related costs for the insured and passengers, typically required in no-fault states [22]. - Uninsured/underinsured motorist protection covers damages and medical costs if involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver [23]. - Gap insurance pays off the auto loan if the vehicle is totaled and the insurance payout does not cover the full debt [24].