If you’ve ever heard the words ‘car recall’ and thought ‘ag nee, not again’, you’re not alone. A manufacturer recall can feel like a royal pain in the bumper, especially when it comes with a free side order of panic. But here’s the big question: Can a car recall impact your car insurance? The short answer: It depends. The longer answer? Read on…
What’s a car recall?
A car recall happens when the manufacturer (like Toyota, Ford, or VW) identifies a defect in a specific car model that could pose a risk to safety, performance, or legal compliance. This could be anything from dodgy airbags and faulty brakes to electrical issues or engine malfunctions.
Usually, the manufacturer will contact all affected car owners and offer to repair the issue at no cost. It’s like a free spa day for your car… If your spa day included new brake pads and software updates.
The insurance connection: Does a recall matter?
Technically, a car recall shouldn’t increase your car insurance premium or result in your claim being rejected, as long as you play your part. Here are the royal rules to remember:
- Ignoring the recall is a big no-no
If your car is recalled and you ignore the notice, that could affect your insurance. Say the issue is a faulty fuel pump, and you decide to ‘let it ride’. If that defect leads to an accident, your insurer (yes, even the king) might reject the claim on the grounds that the damage was preventable.
- Recalls don’t usually affect your premiums
Just because your car model is recalled doesn’t mean King Price is going to suddenly hike your premium. We’re not those guys. Our premiums are calculated based on your risk profile, driving history, and claims record, not the manufacturer’s manufacturing oopsie.
- Let us know if there’s a major change
If your car goes in for recall repairs that result in significant changes (like new parts that alter its performance), you should let us know. Transparency = good karma. Incorrect info = incorrect cover. It’s that simple.
- We cover accidents, not defects
If the recalled part fails and causes an accident, we may cover the resulting damage (if you have comprehensive car insurance). But we won’t pay to repair the faulty part itself… That’s still the manufacturer’s problem.
So, what should you do?
- Act quickly: If your manufacturer contacts you with a recall notice, book that appointment ASAP.
- Keep records: Save all receipts, repair documents, and communications related to the recall.
- Tell the king: If anything changes with your car’s setup after a recall, let us know.
While car recalls can be a hassle, they don’t have to be a crisis. Stay informed, act quickly, and always keep the king in the loop. Remember: We’re on your side (and cheering you on in your driver’s seat) with cover fit for a king.
And speaking of royal cover… If you haven’t yet experienced the benefits of King Price’s comprehensive car insurance, you’re missing out. Our premiums decrease monthly as your car loses value (because logic). And if you comprehensively insure your car with us, you can score R1 insurance on gear like golf clubs, bicycles, and hearing aids. Get a commitment-free quote now or call us on 0860 50 50 50.
Recalls won’t affect your King Price policy if you stay on top of things. Be responsible, stay informed, and keep ruling the road like royalty.
FAQs
Can I still claim if my car has an outstanding recall?
Yes, but it depends. If the claim relates to the recall issue and you didn’t fix it, your claim could be rejected.
Will my King Price policy be cancelled because of a recall?
Not at all. But if you ignore a known risk and something goes wrong, that could complicate things.
Do I need to notify King Price about every recall?
Only if the recall results in a change to your car’s specifications or usage. If it’s just a software update, you’re probably good to go.
Will I pay excess on a recall-related claim?
If we do cover the resulting damage (not the faulty part), then yes, your policy’s excess terms still apply.