flyrade

I have my car in for service, and I got a call saying rodents have been eating my wiring. Part of the engine needs to be removed to get to all the defective wiring, so I can expect a sizable bill. Now the questions is - can I make an insurance claim under the comprehensive portion of my policy?

Has this happened to anyone else? What action did you take? Did the insurance company pay the claim? Is there any special wording I should use - or not use - to assist in getting them to pay a claim?

Any experience in a similar problem, or your advise, would be appreciated.

GregBBRD

Yes. Common thing. I've fixed several, over the years. They love the taste of the ABS harness, above the left inner fender panel, BTW.

Everyone that I've done has been covered by insurance.

James Bailey

And being a not at fault claim should not impact your premiums it comes under comprehensive insurance.

flyrade

That's great news. Thanks.

My mechanic is taking pics to verify the damage. Is there anything else he or myself should do?

Speedtoys

Now..wait...this was AT the mechanics?

Mrmerlin

I was wondering what part of the engine needs to be removed the aircleaner?
as there are not any wires that the engine blocks,
simply installing new harnesses will result in proper operation,

flyrade

This damage occurred at my house, and it was just discovered by my mechanic today, so I don't know the extent of the damage, or its specific location.

James Bailey

It would be unusual for the engine to need to be removed for a wiring change but if covered by insurance it makes no difference as you still pay the same deductible. Good time to get motor mounts and oil pan gasket refreshed for very little extra labor.

flyrade

That's a good thought. I'll check with the mechanic to make sure he looks for preventive maintenance items while he's doing this work.

M. Requin

Comments above from Stan and James Bailey do raise a bit of a red flag- if your mechanic recommends something unnecessary (and I am not saying he has done), do you want him working on your car? After these comments I would just want to be sure.

flyrade

I share your thoughts Requin, but he did call and want me to come down and look at the car/wiring. However, I was not able to do that at the time, so he is taking pics of the damage for the insurance company. At least that gives me a warm feeling.

James Bailey

Must will depend on what the insurance adjuster thinks needs to be done as far as engine R and R...

flyrade

I talked to my mechanic today, and he thinks this is a good time for the insurance adjuster to inspect the car. I'll give them a call Monday morning and see what they want to do. Thanks for all your help, and I'll keep you posted.

Weekend Rides

They like the soy used in the harness for color, yes it's insurable loss I have had several we bought from insurance loss that were eaten. Pretty gross when you really take the car apart and find the rest.

flyrade

I guess that's what's happening. The more they take apart the more they are finding. My mechanic called today and said since he is taking so much apart, this would be a good time for a major service - timing belt, water pump, etc. It's due in less than 10K anyway.