Is Tyre Insurance Worth It? The Truth About Protecting Your Tyres

 

 

Tyre Insurance is often considered by UK drivers because it can help with the cost of repairing or replacing tyres when the damage is sudden and unexpected. From potholes and kerb impacts to nails and road debris, tyre bills can arrive at the worst time.

 

Here we explain what tyre insurance protection does, what it does not cover, and a simple way to judge whether it is worth it for you.

 

What Is Tyre Insurance and What Does It Cover?

Tyre Insurance is designed to contribute towards the cost of repairing or replacing a vehicle’s tyres following accidental or malicious damage.

• Punctures caused by nails, screws or sharp objects
• Impact damage from potholes or kerbs
• Sidewall damage that renders the tyre unsafe
• Malicious damage (crime reference required)

Up to £50 (including VAT) can be contributed towards a puncture repair. Where a tyre cannot be safely repaired, the policy can contribute up to £400 per replacement tyre (as shown on your policy schedule).

You can make up to 5 claims per policy year, with cover available for up to 3 years.

 

What tyre insurance does not cover

• Wear and tear
• Pre-existing damage
• Tyres below 2mm tread depth at the time of damage
• Cosmetic damage that does not render the tyre unsafe
• Repairs carried out without prior authorisation (except emergency situations, subject to policy conditions)

For more information, see our guide on making a tyre insurance claim.

The Cost of Tyre Repairs vs. Tyre Insurance

This policy can contribute up to £400 per tyre and allows up to 5 claims per year. A £10 excess applies per repair, which is waived when a call-out charge is paid for that repair.

Can you buy Tyre Insurance later?

This policy can be purchased at any time, provided your vehicle meets the eligibility criteria at the start of cover.

• Vehicle up to 10 years old
• Up to 100,000 miles
• Tyre size up to and including 21 inches
• Electric vehicles are eligible (subject to criteria)

Get a Quote for Tyre Insurance Today

• If your vehicle meets the eligibility criteria, you can obtain an instant quote online. Please review the IPID and policy wording before purchase.

 

Important information for current Tyre Insurance policies at Total Loss GAP

Underwriter: Helvetia Global Solutions Ltd (UK Branch).

Regulation: Total Loss GAP is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the United Kingdom (FRN 821163).

Cover limits, exclusions and eligibility conditions apply. Always read the IPID and policy wording before purchase.

If you have purchased a tyre insurance policy before January 2026, please refer to the policy documentation for details on limits, claims processes, etc. 

 

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