Consumables Cover in Bike Insurance: All You Need to Know

Consumables cover in bike insurance refers to a type of insurance that covers consumable items, including engine oil, nuts, bolts, lubricants, screw, grease, distilled water and gearbox oil. These are items that are not covered by a standard insurance policy when replacement is necessary.

Although you may think that this type of cover is not worth the additional premium, it is, particularly if you own a high-end bike that has expensive parts. To learn more about consumable cover in bike insurance cost, benefits, and coverage, read this blog.

What is a Consumables Cover in Bike Insurance?

Before discussing the details of consumables add-on cover, it is important to understand what consumables mean in the context of two-wheelers. Consumables refer to items that are regularly replaced or replenished during the maintenance and servicing of a two-wheeler.

Engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, lubricants, filters, gaskets, nuts, bolts, and other similar items are referred to as consumables. These are essential for the proper functioning of the vehicle and require periodic replacement. Sometimes, when you roll your bike into a garage for repairs, replacing the consumables is what gets your vehicle in better condition.

Since the cost of this is not covered by the Own Damage cover of your comprehensive insurance, you usually have to pay for this out of your own pocket. A consumable add-on cover comes in handy in such cases. Insurance claims are subject to the terms and conditions determined under the motor insurance policy.

Why Do You Need a Consumable Add-on?

In motor insurance, a consumable add-on covers non-permanent materials that require replacement after an accident or a breakdown.

Suppose you own a Triumph Tracker 400 that got damaged due to an accident. You go to a network garage for repairs, so your insurer can cover. After the repair is complete, you find out that although the repair charges have been covered by the comprehensive bike insurance policy, consumables are not, so you are supposed to pay for those.

Since it is a high-end bike, the consumables will cost more. During this time, a consumable cover can help you save on out-of-pocket charges. Let us look at why:

1. A consumable cover in bike insurance provides coverage for expensive Parts, such as brake fluid and engine oil, so you can save on additional expenses.
2. This cover ensures that all costs involved in restoring your bike are fully covered.

What Does a Consumables Cover Include in Bike Insurance?

Many bike owners are unaware that even after a claim is approved, certain repair-related items may not be covered under a standard comprehensive policy. This is where a consumables add-on becomes useful.

Typically, a consumables cover reimburses the cost of items that are replaced during accident-related repairs but are generally excluded from a standard own-damage claim. These may include:

The actual amount may vary depending on the bike model, repair requirements, and service centre charges. Without a consumables add-on, these costs are usually borne by the policyholder.

Consumables Cover Bike Insurance Cost: Is It Worth It?

Now, one of the most common questions may arise in your mind: "Is a consumables add-on worth it?” The answer is yes. The premium for a consumables cover in bike insurance is generally a small percentage of the overall bike insurance premium. However, in the event of a major accident, consumable replacement costs can add up significantly.

For example, if the premium for the annual consumables add-on costs around ₹100 to ₹500 (approximate, depending on insurer and vehicle details), when the consumables are replaced after an accident, it may cost around ₹1,500 to ₹5,000 or more.

In a situation like this, the add-on can help reduce your out-of-pocket expenses and improve the overall claim value. This add-on can be particularly beneficial for riders who frequently use their bikes for daily commuting or long-distance travel.

Consumables Cover vs Nil Depreciation Bike Insurance

Many people confuse a consumables cover with a zero depreciation (nil depreciation) cover. However, the two are different and serve different purposes.

Here is the difference between the two:

Many riders choose both add-ons together for maximum protection. Nil depreciation helps recover the value of replaced parts, whereas consumables cover helps reimburse the cost of essential repair materials that would otherwise be excluded from the claim.

Who Should Consider a Consumables Add-on?

A consumables cover may be suitable if a policyholder:

1. Owns a relatively new bike.

2. Wants to minimise out-of-pocket repair expenses.

3. Rides frequently in high-traffic areas where accident risks are higher.

4. Prefers comprehensive coverage over basic protection.

How To Claim Bike Insurance for Consumables Cover?

To claim the benefits of a consumables cover in bike insurance, you can follow the steps given below.

1. Inform your insurer about the accident or damage incurred.
2. Provide all the necessary details, including pictures and documentation.
3. After reviewing your claim request, the insurer will reimburse you for the expenses.

Conclusion

A consumables cover in bike insurance can be a valuable enhancement to your comprehensive two wheeler insurance policy, especially if you want to minimise out-of-pocket expenses after an accident.

Standard bike insurance policies generally cover major repair costs. Expenses related to consumable items like engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, lubricants, nuts, bolts, and filters are often excluded from claim settlements. Over time, these seemingly small costs can add up to significantly higher amounts.

Before purchasing or renewing your bike insurance policy, compare available add-ons carefully to ensure your two-wheeler receives the level of protection that best suits your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do Consumables Cover add-on costs extra?

Yes, the Consumables Cover add-on typically costs extra. It’s an additional benefit to your health insurance policy, which comes with its own premium.

2. Does the Consumables Cover add-on include all types of consumables?

No, the Consumables Cover add-on generally covers only specific consumables. These items mostly include engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, lubricants, nuts, bolts, and filters. Make sure to check with your insurer for detailed inclusions and exclusions.

3. What documents are required for reimbursement of repair costs, which include consumables as well?

Original repair bills, an itemised breakdown of consumables used, proof of payment, and insurance policy details are the documents that you typically need to submit for reimbursement of repair costs involving consumables.

4. Is it compulsory to include add-on covers in the bike insurance policy?

No, it is not compulsory to include add-on covers in your bike insurance policy. However, many riders prefer optional add-ons like consumables cover or engine protection to avail enhanced coverage.

5. Will I be required to pay an extra premium to get the consumables cover add-on?

Yes, you will be required to pay an additional premium for the consumables cover add-on. The cost varies based on the insurer and the level of coverage offered.

 **Standard T&C apply

Disclaimer: Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.

Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet and is subject to changes. Please consult an expert before making any related decisions.