Claiming a Stolen Stereo Through Your Auto Insurance

The car stereo is among the most-commonly stolen or damaged items in a vehicle break-in, but will your insurance company pay for the cost of replacing your stereo after vandalism? Certain types of cars are more at risk for being broken into than others, and a visible stereo system may be a major point of attraction for many thieves. Insurance coverage requirements vary from state to state, so it's important that you are familiar with what your state requires and what type of insurance you have against vandalism damages -- not all types of insurance will cover a stolen stereo.

Here's what you need to know about claiming a stolen stereo through your auto insurance:

Will a Stolen Stereo Be Covered Under Comprehensive Insurance?

Many people get comprehensive car insurance to protect their vehicle against damage from vandalism and theft. While this type of insurance policy will pay for the cost of repair of broken windows, broken ignition systems, damaged locks and damage to the doors of your vehicle, it won't cover the costs of replacing items inside your vehicle. If your car stereo is removable -- meaning it is not a permanent fixture of your car and can be pulled out fairly easily with some basic tools -- it's likely that your auto insurance provider won't be covering the costs of replacing it if it is stolen or damaged after a break-in. In most cases, the insurance company will only cover any custom parts or features that are permanently installed or attached to the vehicle.

You can deter thieves from stealing your stereo system and breaking into your car by installing a cover over your stereo system or detaching your stereo face when you leave the vehicle. It's also a good idea to avoid leaving other valuable such as a purse, shopping bags or even your cell phone in a visible location in the vehicle, as this can encourage a thief to break in and take these items as well as the stereo.

Filing an Insurance Claim for a Stolen Stereo

If your car insurance provider does provide coverage for a stolen stereo, you will need to provide as many details as you can about the break-in and make sure you file your insurance claim within the right time frame after the incident so that everything can be processed smoothly. If the insurance company approves the claim, you will be reimbursed for the cost of replacing the stereo system and may need to take your car to the dealership or an approved facility to have the repair work done.

Sources:

Progressive -- What's Covered If Someone Breaks Into Your Car?

QuoteWizard -- My car was broken into --what does my insurance cover?

Car Insurance Comparison -- Does car insurance cover vandalism damages?