Mechanical Breakdown

Insurance NZ
Car Owners Love

Mechanical

Breakdown

Insurance NZ
Car Owners Love

Know you’re covered for unexpected costs with

Mechanical Breakdown Insurance.

Know you’re covered for unexpected costs with Mechanical Breakdown Insurance.

Peace of mind for your car and wallet

What happens when mechanical issues pop up right after your car warranty ends? Autolife’s Mechanical Breakdown Insurance (MBI) has you covered!


As a leading MBI provider in NZ, we help cover costly repairs like engine issues, steering faults, battery replacements, and more.


Plus, enjoy benefits like towing, rental car coverage, and 24/7 roadside assistance—so you're never stranded!



Who is breakdown insurance for?

Mechanical breakdown insurance (sometimes known as engine breakdown insurance) is literally for anyone who owns a vehicle. Breakdown insurance is not required, but can have many benefits:

  • Protection from unexpected mechanical and electrical repairs not covered by general car insurance
  • Coverage for both new and used vehicles
  • 24hr roadside assistance including towing & car rental costs
  • Accepted by dealerships & licensed MTA mechanics NZ wide

24/7 roadside assistance

Our Autolife Mechanical Breakdown Insurance policies include Roadside Assistance available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.


Cover is provided through the award-winning team at NZ Roadside Assist which can help with minor roadside repairs, technical advice, battery jumpstarts, flat tyre fitting and roadside breakdown recovery.


Your policy can also cover associated costsincluding towing and rental car coverage.


Exclusive offer for Pit Stop customers

Save 10% on Mechanical Breakdown Insurance

Get a Quote today and save 10% on your MBI insurance with Autolife and Pit Stop.

Why Kiwis choose Autolife?

Discover why more Kiwis are choosing Autolife’s NZ wide mechanical repair insurance to keep

their cars on the road

100% NZ owned

As part of long-established Beneficial Insurance Ltd we’re 100% locally owned & managed.

Fast claims payments

96.5% of our claim payments are made within 14 days, and 99.5% within 21 days.

Here for you 24/7

We understand that accidents can happen any time. That’s why we’re here for you day or night.

No third parties

We underwrite our policies, so there’s nobody to complicate your application or claims.

Exclusive offer for Pit Stop customers

Save 10% on Mechanical Breakdown Insurance

Get a Quote today and save 10% on your MBI insurance with Autolife and Pit Stop.


Why Kiwis choose Autolife?

Discover why more Kiwis are choosing Autolife’s NZ wide mechanical repair insurance to keep

their cars on the road

100% NZ owned

As part of long-established Beneficial Insurance Ltd we’re 100% locally owned & managed.

Fast claims payments

96.5% of our claim payments are made within 14 days, and 99.5% within 21 days.

Here for you 24/7

We understand that accidents can happen any time. That’s why we’re here for you day or night.

No third parties

We underwrite our policies, so there’s nobody to complicate your application or claims.

FAQS

Check out common questions we’re asked about Mechanical Breakdown Insurance

How does Mechanical Breakdown Insurance differ from Comprehensive Car Insurance?

Mechanical Breakdown Insurance differs from Comprehensive Car Insurance. Comprehensive Car Insurance covers external damages from accidents, theft, vandalism, and natural disasters. In contrast, Mechanical Breakdown Insurance covers internal mechanical components like the engine, transmission, and electrical systems when they fail due to faults (not fair wear and tear). To find out more read our blog post.

Why is regular servicing essential for my Mechanical Breakdown Insurance policy?

Regular servicing is vital to keep your MBI policy valid and ensure your car remains in good condition. You must service your car within the first three months or 5,000 kilometres, whichever comes first. Missing this initial service will invalidate your policy. After the initial service, you need to service your car at least once every 12 months or 10,000 kilometres, whichever comes first, to maintain your policy’s validity. You can find out more here.

Can I make a claim straight away?

There is a 21 day stand down period before you are eligible to make claims. However, as a matter of good faith if you do have a breakdown and need NZRA service please call our friendly staff and we can assist on a case by case basis.

What questions do other people ask?
  • How often am I required to service my vehicle?Within 5,000km or 3 months following start date and thereafter
    Petrol Vehicles within 12 months and 10,000kms
    Diesel Vehicles within 12 months and 10,000kms
  • General Wear & Tear is not covered (e.g. Wipers, Tyres, Oil changes and other Consumables)
  • Pre-existing conditions are not covered.
  • The MBI cover is nationwide and approved mechanical repairs can be carried out by any MTA member.
  • Roadside assistance is 24×7
How does the claims process work?

Please visit our website and download the claim form. There is a section for you to describe the faults / symptoms, a section for the mechanic to Complete the details of the problem and an estimate to fix the same. This information is then assessed by our claims team who will respond to you and the garage. Once the claim has been approved, the Garage is given the go ahead and you are kept informed. When the job is completed, you pay the excess directly to the Garage and the balance of the Invoice is paid by Autolife NZ in accordance with our guidelines.

What does your 7-day free-look period mean?

The insured has a 7 day “free look” period during which you can read the terms and conditions of the policy and decide if you wish to continue with it. If you decide not to continue with the policy, you will need to advise us in writing within 7 days of receipt.

What would be the best plan for me?

It depends on the vehicle and the usage / mileage. For single owner–driver cars our Standard mechanical breakdown cover of $4,000 ($5,000 if your car is travelled less than 100,000 kms) will certainly provide peace-of-mind.

Can I sign up more than 1 car?

Yes, we do multiple policies. We will offer a discount on an individual basis.

What is your acceptance criteria?

We accept most vehicles that are NZ registered after 2000 and have travelled less than 200,000 kms.

If your car is just outside this criteria, please talk to one of our friendly staff and we can advise you better on a case by case basis.

Can I pay monthly or forthnightly like I pay my other insurances?

We have a payment plan which a majority of our customers utilise. Weekly / Fortnightly / Monthly. If you can and would like the best price yearly is a good option. You normally save a month’s premium when you pay annually.

Why should I trust Autolife? How do I know you’re a genuine NZ insurance company?

Autolife is owned and operated by Beneficial Insurance Limited. Beneficial is regulated by the Reserve Bank of New Zealand and has had an Insurance license since 2002. Beneficial is also one of the largest pet insurance companies in New Zealand.

All licensed insurers are required to have a financial strength rating (“FSR”) from a rating agency authorised for this purpose by the Reserve Bank of New Zealand. Beneficial Insurance Limited has been rated B++ Outlook Stable by AM Best Company. The AM Best company financial strength rating scale is as follows:

Secure
A++, A+ (Superior)
A, A- (Excellent)
B++, B+ (Good)

Vulnerable
B, B- (Fair)
C++, C+ (Marginal)
C, C- (Weak)
D (Poor)
E (Under Regulatory Supervision)

Who else provides this kind of Insurance?

At present, no one offers MBI with an Instalment plan direct to public. There are other Insurance companies that do offer this but through a Dealer network. All payments are upfront and non–refundable via this mode. Autolife MBI payments can be made over the course of the policy term.

If I sell my car or it is written off, do I still have to pay the Premium balances?

No. To cancel the 12 month contract early there is a $75 cancellation fee.

If more than 1 person drives the car does the Insurance cover change or do I pay more?

The policy is tied to the Vehicle so irrespective of the Drivers we will cover the vehicle for mechanical breakdown in accordance with your policy terms.

Will I get a Courtesy car whilst my car is being repaired?

If the garage cannot provide a courtesy car you may be able to arrange a rental car based on the policy terms.

Who will repair my vehicle?

Any MTA workshop. If you are not sure we can recommend garages that have worked with our other customers.

I already have Accident Insurance, why should I double up on my Insurance?

Accident Insurance will only cover you if you have an accident. Accident insurance does not cover mechanical failure. Most Banks offer an Accident Insurance which is typically underwritten by a large Underwriter (e.g. IAG).

How long is a policy for?

The policy term provides cover for 12 months, at the end of which it can be renewed.

What is Mechanical Breakdown Insurance?

We cover your car for any mechanical or electrical failures. Some of the most common claims include Engines, Transmissions, Water Pumps, and Control Units.

What cars are covered?

The vast majority of Japanese and European Cars are covered. For a full list please see our list of cars.

What is the most that I can get covered for?

The maximum cover we offer is for $8000. We offer 2 policies; Autolife Standard and Autolife PLUS.

FAQS

Check out common questions we’re asked about Mechanical Breakdown Insurance and our other policies…

How does Mechanical Breakdown Insurance differ from Comprehensive Car Insurance?

Mechanical Breakdown Insurance differs from Comprehensive Car Insurance. Comprehensive Car Insurance covers external damages from accidents, theft, vandalism, and natural disasters. In contrast, Mechanical Breakdown Insurance covers internal mechanical components like the engine, transmission, and electrical systems when they fail due to faults (not fair wear and tear). To find out more read our blog post.

Why is regular servicing essential for my Mechanical Breakdown Insurance policy?

Regular servicing is vital to keep your MBI policy valid and ensure your car remains in good condition. You must service your car within the first three months or 5,000 kilometres, whichever comes first. Missing this initial service will invalidate your policy. After the initial service, you need to service your car at least once every 12 months or 10,000 kilometres, whichever comes first, to maintain your policy’s validity. You can find out more here.

Can I make a claim straight away?

There is a 21 day stand down period before you are eligible to make claims. However, as a matter of good faith if you do have a breakdown and need NZRA service please call our friendly staff and we can assist on a case by case basis.

What questions do other people ask?
  • How often am I required to service my vehicle?Within 5,000km or 3 months following start date and thereafter
    Petrol Vehicles within 12 months and 10,000kms
    Diesel Vehicles within 12 months and 10,000kms
  • General Wear & Tear is not covered (e.g. Wipers, Tyres, Oil changes and other Consumables)
  • Pre-existing conditions are not covered.
  • The MBI cover is nationwide and approved mechanical repairs can be carried out by any MTA member.
  • Roadside assistance is 24×7
How does the claims process work?

Please visit our website and download the claim form. There is a section for you to describe the faults / symptoms, a section for the mechanic to Complete the details of the problem and an estimate to fix the same. This information is then assessed by our claims team who will respond to you and the garage. Once the claim has been approved, the Garage is given the go ahead and you are kept informed. When the job is completed, you pay the excess directly to the Garage and the balance of the Invoice is paid by Autolife NZ in accordance with our guidelines.

What does your 7-day free-look period mean?

The insured has a 7 day “free look” period during which you can read the terms and conditions of the policy and decide if you wish to continue with it. If you decide not to continue with the policy, you will need to advise us in writing within 7 days of receipt.

What would be the best plan for me?

It depends on the vehicle and the usage / mileage. For single owner–driver cars our Standard mechanical breakdown cover of $4,000 ($5,000 if your car is travelled less than 100,000 kms) will certainly provide peace-of-mind.

Can I sign up more than 1 car?

Yes, we do multiple policies. We will offer a discount on an individual basis.

What is your acceptance criteria?

We accept most vehicles that are NZ registered after 2000 and have travelled less than 200,000 kms.

If your car is just outside this criteria, please talk to one of our friendly staff and we can advise you better on a case by case basis.

Can I pay monthly or forthnightly like I pay my other insurances?

We have a payment plan which a majority of our customers utilise. Weekly / Fortnightly / Monthly. If you can and would like the best price yearly is a good option. You normally save a month’s premium when you pay annually.

Why should I trust Autolife? How do I know you’re a genuine NZ insurance company?

Autolife is owned and operated by Beneficial Insurance Limited. Beneficial is regulated by the Reserve Bank of New Zealand and has had an Insurance license since 2002. Beneficial is also one of the largest pet insurance companies in New Zealand.

All licensed insurers are required to have a financial strength rating (“FSR”) from a rating agency authorised for this purpose by the Reserve Bank of New Zealand. Beneficial Insurance Limited has been rated B++ Outlook Stable by AM Best Company. The AM Best company financial strength rating scale is as follows:

Secure
A++, A+ (Superior)
A, A- (Excellent)
B++, B+ (Good)

Vulnerable
B, B- (Fair)
C++, C+ (Marginal)
C, C- (Weak)
D (Poor)
E (Under Regulatory Supervision)

Who else provides this kind of Insurance?

At present, no one offers MBI with an Instalment plan direct to public. There are other Insurance companies that do offer this but through a Dealer network. All payments are upfront and non–refundable via this mode. Autolife MBI payments can be made over the course of the policy term.

If I sell my car or it is written off, do I still have to pay the Premium balances?

No. To cancel the 12 month contract early there is a $75 cancellation fee.

If more than 1 person drives the car does the Insurance cover change or do I pay more?

The policy is tied to the Vehicle so irrespective of the Drivers we will cover the vehicle for mechanical breakdown in accordance with your policy terms.

Will I get a Courtesy car whilst my car is being repaired?

If the garage cannot provide a courtesy car you may be able to arrange a rental car based on the policy terms.

Who will repair my vehicle?

Any MTA workshop. If you are not sure we can recommend garages that have worked with our other customers.

I already have Accident Insurance, why should I double up on my Insurance?

Accident Insurance will only cover you if you have an accident. Accident insurance does not cover mechanical failure. Most Banks offer an Accident Insurance which is typically underwritten by a large Underwriter (e.g. IAG).

How long is a policy for?

The policy term provides cover for 12 months, at the end of which it can be renewed.

What is Mechanical Breakdown Insurance?

We cover your car for any mechanical or electrical failures. Some of the most common claims include Engines, Transmissions, Water Pumps, and Control Units.

What cars are covered?

The vast majority of Japanese and European Cars are covered. For a full list please see our list of cars.

What is the most that I can get covered for?

The maximum cover we offer is for $8000. We offer 2 policies; Autolife Standard and Autolife PLUS.


Take a look at some of our great reviews

Autolife has a 97% customer satisfaction rating

★★★★Rating : 4.0 · 375+ reviews on Google


Take a look at some of our great reviews

Autolife has a 97% customer satisfaction rating

★★★★Rating : 4.0 · 375+ reviews on Google

©2025 Autolife. All rights reserved.


Autolife is a subsidiary of Beneficial Insurance Ltd and is 100% New Zealand owned & operated.