Comprehensive insurance solutions designed specifically for mechanics, panel beaters, car dealers, and automotive businesses across New Zealand. Protect your workshop, tools, and livelihood.
The automotive industry in New Zealand is a vital sector, with thousands of mechanics, panel beaters, car dealers, and other automotive professionals keeping vehicles on the road. Running an automotive business comes with unique risks that require specialised insurance cover.
From working on customer vehicles worth thousands of dollars to handling hazardous materials like oils and solvents, the potential for things to go wrong is significant. A single accident or claim could result in substantial financial loss, threatening the viability of your business.
Many automotive businesses in New Zealand are members of the Motor Vehicle Traders Association (MVTA). Being a member may provide access to specialised insurance schemes and trader plates. Additionally, many vehicle hire companies and fleet operators require proof of insurance before allowing you to work on their vehicles.
Essential for all automotive businesses. Covers legal costs and compensation if a customer or member of the public is injured or property is damaged at your premises. Most fleet operators and vehicle hire companies require $1M-$2M minimum cover.
Specifically designed for automotive businesses. Covers customer vehicles while in your care, custody, and control, as well as your own stock, parts, and materials. Essential for mechanics, panel beaters, and car dealers.
Protect your valuable diagnostic equipment, power tools, and specialist automotive tools from theft, damage, or loss. Whether stored in your workshop or vehicle, this cover ensures you can replace essential gear quickly.
Cover for your business vehicles including tow trucks, service vehicles, trade utes, and delivery vans. Includes coverage for tools and equipment stored in the vehicle, with options for single vehicles or fleet cover.
Cover for your workshop or premises, including fixtures, fittings, and equipment. Protects against fire, theft, storm damage, and other perils that could damage your business premises.
If you employ staff, this covers claims from employees for work-related injuries or illness not covered by ACC. Required for businesses with employees and particularly important in the automotive industry.
The automotive industry presents unique risks that require careful consideration. Understanding these helps you ensure you have the right cover in place.
While working on customer vehicles, accidental damage can occur during repairs, testing, or storage. This can result in significant claims from customers expecting their vehicle to be returned in the same condition.
Automotive businesses often have high-value vehicles on-site, including customer vehicles and stock. Theft of vehicles, parts, or tools is a significant risk, particularly for businesses with overnight storage.
Workshops contain flammable materials including fuels, oils, solvents, and paints. Fire risk is heightened, and chemical spills can cause environmental damage and clean-up costs.
Automotive work involves risks including heavy lifting, working under vehicles, exposure to hazardous chemicals, and use of powerful equipment. While ACC covers workplace injuries, there may be gaps that require additional cover.
Customers visiting your premises could be injured due to slips, trips, or other accidents. Property damage to neighbouring businesses or properties can also result in significant claims.
A fire, flood, or other major incident could force your business to close temporarily. Business interruption insurance protects your income during these periods of forced closure.
Insurance costs vary based on your business type, size, turnover, claims history, location, and the specific covers you need. Here's a general guide for NZ automotive businesses:
| Cover Type | Annual Cost Range | Factors Affecting Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Public Liability | $1,000 - $4,000+ | Business type, customer numbers, contract requirements |
| Motor Trade / Workshop | $2,000 - $10,000+ | Vehicle values, customer vehicle numbers, coverage limits |
| Tool & Equipment | $400 - $2,000 | Total tool value, security measures, storage |
| Commercial Vehicle | $1,500 - $6,000+ | Vehicle type, usage, driver history, fleet size |
| Buildings & Contents | $1,500 - $8,000+ | Building value, location, security, flood risk |
| Business Interruption | $800 - $5,000+ | Revenue protected, waiting period, indemnity period |
Note: These are indicative figures only. Get a custom quote to find accurate pricing for your specific situation. Many insurers offer discounts for MVTA members, combined policies, security systems, or proven track records.
Speak to a broker who understands the automotive industry. We'll find the right cover at competitive prices.
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Explore these insurance solutions commonly needed by automotive businesses in New Zealand
Protect against third-party injury and property damage claims
Cover for vans, utes, trucks and fleet vehicles
Comprehensive cover for multiple vehicles in your business
Cover for tools, plant and automotive equipment
Protect your income if business is interrupted
Cover for employee injuries and claims
Get comprehensive insurance cover tailored to your automotive business. Our brokers understand the unique risks faced by mechanics, panel beaters, and car dealers in New Zealand.
No obligation quotes. Competitive rates. NZ-based claims support.