What you need to know when insuring your 4WD

Last updated on April 5, 2023
Working out the type of insurance you need for your 4WD doesn't need to be difficult. In this guide, we unpack what your 4x4 can be covered for and your options when it comes to car insurance.

CTP insurance is mandatory for all vehicles in Australia. You won’t be able to register your 4x4 without it.

It generally covers your legal liability for injury caused to your passengers and other road users in an at-fault motor accident. Anyone who drives your vehicle with your permission is also covered.

CTP insurance doesn’t cover damage to your vehicle or other people’s cars or property.

You may also want to consider whether car insurance is right for you. Here’s what you need to know to choose the right level of cover for your 4X4.

What are my 4x4 car insurance options?

In Australia, car insurance can cover your 4WD for things like damage to other people’s vehicles or property, theft, fire damage, and in some cases, off-road driving. We always recommend speaking with your insurer about your specific 4X4 and any changes to your vehicle, also known as modifications, before applying for car insurance.

There are different types of car insurance, and while they aren’t specifically 4x4 insurance, they can be suitable for 4WD drivers. We offer the following car insurance:

Third party property damage insurance

If you’re looking for insurance that helps cover you from the financial cost of accidentally damaging someone else’s car or property, third party property damage insurance is one option.

You should note that this type of insurance doesn’t cover damage to your 4WD.

Comprehensive car insurance

Comprehensive car insurance provides cover for loss or damage to your 4WD, plus damage you may cause to other people’s cars or property.

Whilst car insurance is not mandatory in Australia, there are benefits to choosing comprehensive cover. You can customise it to get the level of cover you need. You should let your insurer know of any specific 4WD accessories to ensure they are covered by your policy. You might also like to consider adding any optional covers like:

  • Removal of excess for windscreen damage only claims
  • Rental car after any covered incident

Essential insurance considerations for 4X4 drivers

1. Modifications

Always check any modifications to your 4WD with your insurer to make sure your vehicle is appropriately covered by your policy.

Some examples of modifications include any legal changes to the manufacturer’s standard vehicle body, engine, wheels, paintwork, or suspension. It’s important to know that any illegal modifications, such as exceeding the height limit when adjusting your 4WD’s ride height, could void your insurance policy.

2. Exclusions

Car insurance policies can have exclusions that may affect cover for your 4WD. While these vary, they can include:

  • Participating in races or official competitions – recreational driving is often covered
  • Reckless and illegal behaviours or actions
  • Undisclosed or illegal car modifications
  • Unroadworthy vehicles – including unrepaired damage, rust, or mechanical or other damage that makes the vehicle unsafe to drive.

What am I covered for?

Comprehensive car insurance can often cover your 4X4 vehicle for things like damage to other people’s vehicles or property, theft, and fire damage.

When choosing your car insurance, always tell your insurance provider about any modifications to your vehicle, as well as any off-road activities you’re planning. Then you know exactly what you're covered for.

We understand that your 4WD is important to you, and you’ll want to get cover that suits your needs.

Choosing the right insurance for your 4WD doesn’t need to be complicated. We can help make insurance cover for your 4x4 simple. Visit Allianz Car Insurance to learn more about our car insurance options.

Disclaimer

This article has been prepared by Allianz Australia Insurance Limited ABN 15 000 122 850 AFSL 234708 (“Allianz”). In some cases, information has been provided to us by third parties and while that information is believed to be accurate and reliable, its accuracy is not guaranteed in any way. 

Any opinions expressed constitute our views at the time of issue and are subject to change. Neither Allianz, nor its employees or directors give any warranty of accuracy or accept responsibility for any loss or liability incurred by you in respect of any error, omission or misrepresentation in this article.

 

Allianz acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we live and work across Australia. We pay our respect to First Nations Elders past and present.



Any advice here does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. Terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions apply. Before making a decision about this insurance, consider the relevant Product Disclosure Statement (PDS)/Policy Wording and Supplementary PDS (if applicable). Where applicable, the PDS/Policy Wording, Supplementary PDS and Target Market Determination (TMD) for this insurance are available on this website. We do not provide any form of advice if you call us to enquire about or purchase a product.

Allianz Australia Insurance Limited ABN 15 000 122 850 AFS Licence No. 234708 is the insurer of any general insurance products offered, and Allianz Australia Life Insurance Limited ABN 27 076 033 782 AFS Licence No. 296559 is the insurer of any life insurance products offered. Each entity is responsible for any statements and representations made about its products, on this website.