Bengaluru heavy rainfall: What car owners must do now to avoid paying bills exceeding ₹3 lakh

Bengaluru has been pounded by heavy rain over the past few days, leaving several key areas waterlogged and commuters stranded. Four-wheelers have borne the brunt of the urban flooding. From Koramangala to Whitefield, social media is flooded with visuals of submerged cars, stalled bikes, and waterlogged roads.

While traffic disruptions and power outages have become a routine during the monsoon, what many vehicle owners overlook is the silent but significant risk of long-term vehicle damage. Experts warn that only a few minutes of water exposure can corrode electrical systems, soak interiors, and worse, lead to hydrostatic engine lock. "Repairing car damage is expensive: engine repairs alone can cost between ₹75,000 to ₹2.5 lakh, and if there’s severe damage to electricals or interiors, total restoration can exceed ₹3.5 lakh for mid-range to premium vehicles," said Paras Pasricha, head of motor insurance, Policybazaar.

Most basic comprehensive policies exclude engine damage from water ingress unless specific add-ons are selected. That’s why it’s critical to opt for a comprehensive policy supplemented by essential monsoon-specific riders.

Pasricha said, "The Engine Protection Cover is the most vital, it protects your engine and gearbox from water-related damage, which is typically excluded under standard policies." Besides, a ‘zero depreciation cover’ ensures full claim settlement without deductions for the depreciated value of car parts, which can otherwise lower your reimbursement by 30-50%. The ‘consumables cover’ pays for essential items like engine oil, brake fluid, and lubricants, which are frequently damaged in floods but not covered by default. Tyre protection is also crucial during monsoons, as pothole-induced damage spikes significantly and standard policies don’t account for tyre wear and tear.

"Roadside Assistance is a must-have during the rainy season," added Pasricha. "Waterlogged streets and stalled cars are common, and this add-on ensures quick towing and emergency help, often within 30 minutes," she said.

Importantly, policyholders should never attempt to restart a flooded engine, as this can cause hydrostatic lock and result in claim rejection. Instead, they should immediately report the incident through the insurer’s helpline or WhatsApp-based claim service to initiate assistance.

With weather patterns growing more unpredictable each year, safeguarding your vehicle against flood damage isn’t just smart, but it’s essential. A few extra rupees on the right insurance add-ons today could save you lakhs tomorrow, not to mention the stress of negotiating monsoon mayhem without a backup plan.