The monsoon season is upon us, which means it’s time to get your car ready for the heavy rains. One of the most important things you can do is invest in an engine protection cover. This simple accessory can save you a lot of money and headache by protecting your car’s engine from water damage during storms. As an experienced car owner, you likely already know the basics of monsoon car care. But let’s take a deeper look at why an engine cover is so important and how it fits into your overall monsoon readiness plan.
- Protect Your Engine from Water Damage
During monsoons, engines are extremely vulnerable to water damage. Heavy downpours can lead to water ingress in the engine compartment. It can short-circuit electrical components like the alternator, spark plugs, and distributor. Prolonged accumulation of water can also lead to rusting and corrosion of critical engine parts. An engine protection cover is a must-have because it acts as a waterproof barrier, preventing rainwater from directly entering the engine bay. This minimizes the risk of expensive electrical and mechanical damage.
- Ensure Proper Fit and Installation
The engine cover should fit your car model properly without sagging or allowing gaps for water to sneak through. Refer to size charts and customer reviews to pick the right-sized cover. When installing it, carefully follow the instructions to securely fit the cover above the engine compartment. Fasten any flaps, stretch cords, or straps tightly as recommended to prevent the cover from flying off at high speeds. Take care not to rub the cover against paintwork to prevent scratches. Always visually inspect after installation to ensure proper coverage with no openings. The improper fitting can defeat the purpose of the cover.
- Inspect and Maintain the Cover
Don’t just install the engine cover and forget about it. Periodically inspect it for any tears, holes or wear and tear. Also, check if it remains securely fitted as time goes by. Any big openings or loose fit will allow water seepage. Make sure to repair small holes or tears right away with fabric glue or tape. You can also apply waterproofing sprays on the cover for added protection. Follow any washing instructions given to keep the cover clean. Proper inspection and maintenance will improve its durability.
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- Get Covers for Other Components
While engine covers are extremely useful, also consider getting covers for other important mechanical and electrical components like air filters, batteries, ECU, under chassis, etc. The more components you can protect, the better off your car insurance will be in heavy rains. Combine the engine cover with dedicated covers for gears, sensors, fuse boxes, ignition coils, etc. based on your car’s layout and vulnerability. Though this may cost more upfront, it minimizes monsoon damage risks.
- Practice Other Monsoon Car Care Tips
While engine covers are great, keep in mind that they are just one part of overall monsoon car care. You also need to check wiper blades, brake pads, tire treads, headlights, and all fluids before the rains hit. Only drive through standing water if absolutely unavoidable, and cross slowly to avoid engine flooding. Always keep the fuel tank full to prevent condensation buildup. Park indoors when possible. And if water ingress does occur in the cabin, dry it out fully to prevent mold. Employ these tips along with the engine cover for maximum protection.
Adding insurance cover add-ons to protect your car during monsoons
- Engine and Gearbox Protection protects against flood damage to expensive engine parts. This add-on covers repair or replacement costs resulting from waterlogging which can otherwise be very costly.
- Zero Depreciation add-on compensates for the full cost of repairs or damaged part replacement without depreciation deductions, except for 50% depreciation on tires, tubes, and batteries. This protects against accident expenses in hazardous monsoon conditions.
- 24×7 Roadside Assistance provides immediate on-spot repairs, towing services, and transportation arrangements in case of breakdowns or other emergencies during monsoons when getting help can be difficult.
- Consumables add-on covers expenses like engine oil, nuts, bolts etc. that may need replacement after flood damage but are excluded under standard insurance as wear and tear items.
- Daily Allowance add-on compensates for rental car costs up to a fixed daily limit if your car is immobilized and undergoing repairs. This provides alternative transportation when your car is out of commission.
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