Caravan Insurance Online :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

AFCA Rules Against Engine Theft Coverage in Motor Policy Dispute

AFCA Rules Against Engine Theft Coverage in Motor Policy Dispute

AFCA Rules Against Engine Theft Coverage in Motor Policy Dispute?w=400

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

An applicant's attempt to claim insurance coverage after the theft of an engine designated for his 1993 Nissan Skyline has been denied.
Despite holding a comprehensive motor policy with IAG, the insured's claim was rejected after multiple engines were stolen in a brazen ram-raid at his vehicle repairer's workshop in November 2023, prompting an appeal to the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA).

The crux of the AFCA's ruling rested on the lack of evidence indicating the claimant's ownership of the engine, thereby negating any financial loss acknowledged under the policy. According to an AFCA ombudsman, even if ownership was established, the engine's status-intended but not installed-did not align with the policy’s definitions of 'vehicle' or 'modifications.'

Furthermore, the complainant had not opted for an additional policy benefit that could extend the cover to spare parts awaiting assembly into the insured vehicle. As a result, the claim for engine theft remains outside the current policy's provisions.

The insured also sought assistance from IAG to recover costs from the repairer, a request AFCA deemed inappropriate, emphasizing that issues pertaining to the repairer fell outside the scope of his insurance contract. This path remains a private matter between the claimant and the repairer involved.

This case highlights the critical importance for policyholders to thoroughly understand the intricacies and limitations of their insurance policies, particularly regarding coverage for vehicle components not yet integrated into the car. It demonstrates the necessity for explicit policy terms and the potential need for additional cover options to protect significant investments like spare parts.

The decision may prompt individual insurers and the wider insurance market to reassess coverage options related to spare parts and modifications to align with consumer expectations and reduce disputes. Policyholders are advised to consult their insurers to ensure adequate coverage, especially when dealing with valuable customizations or restorations. This incident serves as a valuable reminder to scrutinize insurance policies closely and engage with insurers proactively to clarify available coverage options.

Published:Sunday, 4th May 2025
Author: Paige Estritori

Please Note: We do not endorse any specific products or companies. Some content is sourced from third parties, including press releases, and may not be independently verified for accuracy or completeness.

Share this news item:

Rate this article

0 Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.

Insurance News

Road User Charging Reform: What It Could Mean for Truck Operators
Road User Charging Reform: What It Could Mean for Truck Operators
06 Jul 2026: Paige Estritori
Road user charging is moving from policy theory to a more serious industry conversation, with a new ITS Australia survey pointing to growing support for replacing fuel excise with a distance-based funding model. For transport operators, this is not just a tax discussion. It could change how fleets calculate running costs, compare vehicle types and plan margins on long-term freight contracts. - read more
Stolen Tools Ruling Shows Why Policy Limits Matter
Stolen Tools Ruling Shows Why Policy Limits Matter
06 Jul 2026: Paige Estritori
A recent Australian Financial Complaints Authority decision is a timely warning for trade businesses that rely on tools, trailers and mobile equipment every day. The dispute centred on a business that had tools and a trailer stolen from a worksite, then challenged the insurer’s payout after discovering the claim was limited by the portable items section of the policy. - read more
Adviser Levy Pressure Puts PI Reform Back in Focus
Adviser Levy Pressure Puts PI Reform Back in Focus
06 Jul 2026: Paige Estritori
The Financial Advice Association Australia has renewed pressure on the Federal Government to limit Compensation Scheme of Last Resort costs for financial advisers, arguing the profession should not carry more than $20 million in total levy exposure while adviser numbers remain under strain. - read more
New Strata Broking Findings Raise the Bar for Trust
New Strata Broking Findings Raise the Bar for Trust
06 Jul 2026: Paige Estritori
Fresh findings from the Insurance Brokers Code Compliance Committee have added another layer to Australia’s continuing strata insurance transparency debate. The committee’s review of strata broker-agent arrangements examined seven brokers collectively connected to one thousand and eighty-eight strata representatives, and resulted in nine formal breach determinations. Two brokers were also referred to ASIC for consideration of conflict management issues. - read more
Why Micro-Rating Matters for Your Next Shop Insurance Renewal
Why Micro-Rating Matters for Your Next Shop Insurance Renewal
06 Jul 2026: Paige Estritori
Australia’s commercial insurance market is entering a more nuanced phase. While headline pricing indicators suggest conditions are easing for many business customers, a recent Insurance Business Australia report highlights a shift away from the old idea of one broad insurance cycle. Instead, pricing is increasingly being assessed by product line, geography, occupation, claims history and the quality of each risk submission. - read more


Caravan Insurance Articles

Understanding the Key Features of Various Caravan Insurance Plans
Understanding the Key Features of Various Caravan Insurance Plans
Caravanning is a popular pastime for many Australians, offering the freedom to explore the great outdoors and travel at leisure. However, owning a caravan comes with its own set of responsibilities and risks. - read more
Mastering Weight Distribution for a Smooth, Safe Caravan Journey
Mastering Weight Distribution for a Smooth, Safe Caravan Journey
When embarking on journeys with a caravan in tow, understanding the concept of weight distribution is critical. This refers to how the weight of your load is spread both within the caravan and between the caravan and the towing vehicle. Ensuring this weight is evenly distributed is not just a matter of organization; it's a fundamental aspect of safe and smooth travel. - read more
Why Caravan Insurance is a Must for Australian Travelers
Why Caravan Insurance is a Must for Australian Travelers
The caravan lifestyle is experiencing a remarkable surge in popularity across Australia. Recent years have seen a significant increase in the number of individuals and families embracing the nomadic way of life, traveling across the country in caravans. - read more
The Caravan Owner's Guide to Insurance: Comparing Quotes Online
The Caravan Owner's Guide to Insurance: Comparing Quotes Online
Caravanning has become a favorite pastime for many Australians, offering a unique sense of freedom and the thrill of exploring the vast beauty of the country. The wanderlust associated with hitting the road and setting up camp wherever you choose speaks to a growing number of adventure-seekers. - read more
5 Top Tips for Safely Caravanning with Your Furry Friends in Australia
5 Top Tips for Safely Caravanning with Your Furry Friends in Australia
Exploring the great Australian outdoors in a caravan with your furry friends by your side can create unforgettable memories and provide experiences that deepen the bond between you and your pets. The joy found in watching your pet's excitement as they encounter new sights, sounds, and smells is irreplaceable and adds a layer of delight to the adventures ahead. - read more

Knowledgebase
Indemnity:
A legal principle that stipulates that insurance policies should restore the insured to the financial position they were in before the loss.