Will car insurance cover paint damage?

Sometimes — it depends how it happened.

Peta Taylor's headshot

By

Peta Taylor

Updated

Fact checked

Start comparing

Key takeaways

  • You won't be covered if the damage is a result of general wear and tear.
  • You may be covered if you have comprehensive car insurance.
  • There are a few considerations to make before claiming.

Am I covered by car insurance for paint damage?

As a general rule of thumb, car insurance won't cover you for anything that's related to general wear and tear. So if your car is just a bit old and the paint has started to peel, this isn't covered.

However, paint damage will be covered by a comprehensive car insurance policy if the damage occurs as the result of a claimable event. What might that be?

  • An accident where someone's door has flung into yours, causing a scratch.
  • A storm where a tree fell on the car and scraped the paint.
  • A malicious act like vandalism where the paint has been damaged.

Essentially, if the event was unforeseeable — you're likely to be covered.

If the event is down to wear and tear and just general use, you're less likely to be covered.

Will I have to pay my excess for a paint damage claim?

Yes, it's very likely that you'd have to pay your excess for a paint damage claim.

So, with that in mind. Here's what you should consider first:

  • How much is your excess?
  • How much would it cost for you to fix the paint damage on your own, out of pocket?

If the cost of your excess is higher than the quote to fix the paint, then you might be better off sorting the damage without going through your insurance.

Peta Taylor's headshot
Our expert says

"Before you make a claim, be aware that it'll likely lead to an increase in your next premium at renewal time. If the damage is so substantial that you feel this cost is worth it, then go for it. But if it can be settled on your own, then it may well be cheaper for you to do that."

Peta Taylor's headshot
Publisher of Insurance

FAQs

Sources

Peta Taylor's headshot
Written by

Publisher of Insurance

Peta Taylor is a publisher at Finder, working across all of insurance. She's been analysing product disclosure statements and publishing articles for over 2 years. Peta is passionate about demystifying complex insurance products to help users make well educated decisions with confidence. Peta is part of Finder's insurance awards team and works alongside editorial and insights experts to bring users the best insurance products every year. See full bio

More resources on Finder

Get rewarded $$ for switching with Finder Rewards

Find a better deal, save on your bills and get a free gift card. Sign up to be the first to hear about new Finder Rewards.

Ask a question

You are about to post a question on finder.com.au:

  • Do not enter personal information (eg. surname, phone number, bank details) as your question will be made public
  • finder.com.au is a financial comparison and information service, not a bank or product provider
  • We cannot provide you with personal advice or recommendations
  • Your answer might already be waiting – check previous questions below to see if yours has already been asked

Finder only provides general advice and factual information, so consider your own circumstances, or seek advice before you decide to act on our content. By submitting a question, you're accepting our Terms Of Service and Finder Group Privacy & Cookies Policy.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

More guides on Finder

  • ALDI car insurance review

    ALDI car insurance offers comprehensive car insurance with really solid benefit limits.

  • ahm car insurance review

    ahm offers a decent level of coverage but might not suit drivers on a tighter budget.
  • RACQ Roadside Assistance Review

    RACQ offers strong benefits and service, but drivers can expect to pay higher premiums and a joining fee.
  • Australian Seniors car insurance review

    With 5% off for seniors, budget-friendly policies, and some uncommon benefits, Australian Seniors is worth considering.
  • ANZ car insurance review

    ANZ car insurance is typically more expensive than average, but it does have some generous benefits.
  • Australian Unity Car Insurance

    Australian Unity car insurance, underwritten by Allianz, offers two levels of cover, the freedom to choose your own repairer and an easy 24-hour claims service.
  • APIA car insurance

    APIA car insurance is issued by AAI Limited and offers 3 levels of cover, a range of discounts and a lifetime guarantee on repairs.
  • Coles Car Insurance review

    Coles car insurance is a budget-friendly option for young people, but older drivers may be able to find cheaper cover elsewhere.
  • Allianz car insurance review

    With a higher-than-average price but no particularly impressive benefits, Allianz was outperformed by many other car insurers in the 2024 Finder Insurance Awards.
  • AAMI car insurance review

    With strong cover and reasonably-priced policies, AAMI performed well in the 2024 Finder Awards. However, some popular benefits are missing and cheaper options are available.
Go to site