Does comprehensive car insurance include water damage coverage?

[McLola]

Comprehensive insurance does not include water damage coverage. 1. Introduction: Comprehensive insurance generally refers to compulsory traffic insurance, vehicle damage insurance, third-party liability insurance, no-deductible coverage, passenger insurance, glass breakage insurance, theft insurance, etc.; while water damage insurance is a newly derived type of auto insurance, mainly referring to an additional coverage purchased by car owners specifically for engine protection. 2. Coverage terms of water damage insurance: If the engine is damaged due to driving through flooded roads or being submerged while parked, the insurance company will cover the corresponding engine repair costs. However, if the car owner forcibly starts the engine after submersion and causes further damage, the insurance company will not provide compensation.

[HadleyLee]

I just bought a new car and encountered a similar issue, so I specifically went to inquire about it. Full coverage car insurance generally refers to the combination of compulsory traffic insurance and commercial insurance, which by default does not include water damage insurance—it needs to be purchased separately. Especially in rainy southern regions, it’s highly recommended to add this coverage. Last year, my friend’s car was submerged up to half of its wheels, and the engine was completely ruined. Fortunately, he had purchased water damage insurance in advance and received over 30,000 yuan in compensation. However, it’s crucial to note: never attempt to restart the engine after the car has been submerged in water, or the claim will be denied. I suggest checking your policy directly for the term 'engine water damage insurance.' If it’s not there, contact your insurance company to add it as soon as possible. Before the rainy season arrives, it’s also a good idea to visit the vehicle management office for a waterproofing inspection and to keep a window-breaking hammer handy.

[DelKyle]

As a veteran driver with over a decade of experience, I strongly advise taking water damage insurance seriously. The so-called 'full coverage' is actually a vague concept, as water damage insurance has never been a standard inclusion. After the 2020 auto insurance reform, water damage insurance was renamed 'Special Engine Loss Coverage' and requires additional payment. The premium is only about 200-300 RMB, but it can be a lifesaver during typhoon season. Last month, when the underground garage in our community flooded, owners without this coverage had to pay for repairs entirely out of pocket. Key reminder: If you forcibly start the engine after water ingress and cause cylinder scoring, it's considered man-made damage and absolutely won't be covered. It's best to save the insurance company's customer service number in your phone's speed dial.

[DelKimberly]

This issue has two aspects to consider: On a basic level, comprehensive insurance does not inherently include water damage coverage; in practical terms, since 2020, water damage insurance has been incorporated as an additional clause under vehicle damage insurance. However, you must proactively request its inclusion when purchasing insurance, with an annual premium increase of approximately 200 yuan. The biggest catch lies in the claim terms: only static water damage is covered, and any claim will be denied if the vehicle is started after stalling in water. It's advisable to have the insurance agent explicitly document in writing that the policy covers water damage liability. Additionally, remember the 'slow and steady through water' rule when driving in rain—avoid risking it if the water level exceeds two-thirds of the tire height. Keeping a car insurance app handy ensures quicker claims reporting.