Does Insurance Cover Stolen Wheels or Tires? Here’s the Scoop
You walk outside, coffee in hand, ready to take on the day… and your car is sitting on bricks. Yep – your wheels and tires have vanished like socks in a dryer. Welcome to California, where the sun shines bright, and apparently, so do the opportunities for wheel thieves.
According to the Premiere Services 2023 report, Los Angeles/Orange County tops the nation for insurance-related claims involving stolen wheels and tires. Not far behind? San Francisco/Oakland, with Sacramento sneaking in at No. 10. These aren’t minor thefts either – with the rising cost of wheels and tires, it’s not unusual for the damage to top $3,000 or even $4,000.
So, here’s the big question:
Does insurance cover stolen wheels or tires?
Yes – but only if you have Comprehensive coverage on your Auto insurance policy.
Comprehensive coverage is what steps in for non-collision events like theft, fire, vandalism, or a tree deciding to take a nap on your hood. If someone runs off with your wheels, your policy will help cover the cost to replace them.
Keep in mind
A Deductible will apply. That means if your deductible is $1,000 and your loss is $3,500, your insurance will pay $2,500.
Also important: if your wheels were aftermarket or custom, make sure they are properly documented and disclosed on your policy. Some insurers may not fully cover non-factory parts unless they’re listed and valued ahead of time. Read more about car customizations and how they are covered by your Auto insurance here.
Bottom line?
If you are rolling on pricey wheels or live in a hotspot for theft, it may be time to double-check your policy. Make sure you have Comprehensive coverage – and maybe invest in a good set of lug nut locks while you’re at it.
