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GetZero Depreciation vs Consumables Cover: Key Differences
Jun 11, 2026
Zero depreciation and consumables cover are add-ons* that help reduce out-of-pocket expenses during car repairs. While zero depreciation cover helps reduce depreciation-related deductions on replaced car parts during claims, consumables cover helps pay for items such as nuts, bolts, engine oil, and similar materials used during repairs.
This article explains the difference between zero depreciation and consumables cover, their importance and when to choose one over the other.
What is Zero Depreciation Cover?
Depreciation refers to the reduction in a car’s value and the value of its parts over time due to age, wear and tear, and market conditions. Under a standard insurance plan, depreciation is usually deducted during claim settlement.
In motor insurance, through a zero-depreciation cover, the insurer may compensate for depreciation deductions applicable to replaced parts. This can help reduce out-of-pocket expenses during vehicle repairs.
What Does Zero Depreciation Cover?
Also known as bumper-to-bumper insurance, this add-on* may offer financial protection, covering the following:
Plastic, Rubber, and Nylon Parts: Interior panels, trims, bumpers, clips, and other rubber, plastic, and nylon parts are covered under zero depreciation.
Metal Parts: Fenders, doors, bonnet and other metal car parts are covered by this add-on.
Fibreglass Components: These parts may be covered, subject to policy termsunder the zero-depreciation cover.
Coverage for metal parts depends on policy terms; depreciation may still apply in some cases.
What Is Consumables Cover in Car Insurance?
Consumables are items used during vehicle repairs that usually need regular replacement because of wear and tear. These items are often used for a limited period and may not be reusable after use.
A consumables cover in car insurance helps vehicle owners manage the cost of these items during repair-related claims.
What Does a Consumables Cover Include?
A consumables add-on* typically covers the costs of the following:
Engine oil
Nuts and bolts
Lubricants
Brake oil
Grease
Coolant
AC refrigerant gas
Although the cost of each consumable may seem small, they can collectively add up to a significant expense.
Zero Depreciation Cover vs Consumables Cover: Key Differences
The following table offers a clear distinction between zero depreciation vs consumables cover :
Feature | Zero Depreciation Cover | Consumables Cover |
Coverage | The cost of parts without consideration of depreciation | The cost of consumables such as nuts, bolts, oils, etc. |
Benefit | Major accidents or replacement of parts | Regular or accidental repairs with the involvement of consumables |
Inclusion | Covers fibre parts, plastics, metal parts and so on. | Covers parts typically excluded from policies |
Ideal For | New or expensive cars owing to costly spare parts | Cars driven through tough terrains frequently |
Do You Need Both Zero Depreciation and Consumables Cover?
Along with third-party insurance, which is mandatory in India, having a comprehensive car insurance policy with the right add-ons* helps vehicle owners manage repair-related expenses more practically. Add-ons* such as zero depreciation and consumables covers can further help reduce out-of-pocket costs during claims. When included together, they can offer better financial support during vehicle repairs after an accident.
SBI General Insurance offers these add-ons* to help policyholders boost their overall coverage and stay better protected on the road.
The Cost of Adding Both Covers to Your Policy
The cost of adding a zero depreciation and consumables cover to a car insurance policy can differ from one vehicle to another. It usually depends on factors such as the car’s age, model, and Insured Declared Value (IDV).
A zero-depreciation add-on may slightly increase the premium compared to a standard policy, but it can reduce depreciation-related deductions during claims. The consumables cover may also add a small amount to the premium. However, it helps cover expenses for items used during repairs, such as engine oil, nuts, bolts, and lubricants. This can help vehicle owners reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
Choosing both add-ons* together is a smart move to manage repair expenses more comfortably during unexpected situations.
When to Choose Which Cover
When it comes to zero depreciation vs consumables cover, the best scenarios to choose them may differ:
Zero Depreciation Cover
Zero depreciation cover may be suitable for individuals who own new or high-value cars, especially vehicles with expensive or imported parts. It may also benefit new drivers or those who frequently drive in heavy city traffic. This add-on* helps in reducing depreciation-related deductions during claims, which can help lower repair expenses.
Consumables Cover
Consumables cover may be useful for individuals who own older cars or drive frequently. It helps cover the cost of items such as engine oil, nuts, bolts, and lubricants used during repairs. This can minimise small but repeated out-of-pocket expenses during claims.
Conclusion
Both zero depreciation and consumables coverage can reduce out-of-pocket expenses during insurance claims. With the zero depreciation cover, reimbursement for replaced parts can be maximised, and with the consumables cover, smaller repair-related costs can be handled. Whether one or both add-on*s must be chosen depends on various factors. However, both play a role in improving financial protection.
SBI General Insurance offers comprehensive car insurance plans with suitable add-ons* that cater to different driving and coverage needs.
FAQs
1. What is the difference between zero depreciation and consumables cover?
Zero depreciation covers depreciation on replaced parts, while consumables cover reimbursement for oils, nuts, bolts, lubricants, and similar items.
2. Can I buy both zero depreciation and consumables cover together?
Yes, both add-ons* can usually be purchased together for broader financial protection during vehicle repairs and claim settlements.
3. Does zero depreciation cover consumables like engine oil?
No, zero depreciation cover does not include consumables; they are covered under a separate consumables add-on*.
4. Which add-on is better for a new car – zero dep or consumables?
For a new car, zero depreciation cover is usually more beneficial as it may cover replacement costs of damaged parts without depreciation deductions.
5. How much extra premium does the consumables cover cost?
A consumables cover generally increases the car insurance premium slightly, depending on the vehicle model, age, insurer, and coverage selected.
This blog is intended solely for educational and informational purposes. Content reflects data at time of publication and may not accurately reflect current premiums, terms, or regulations. Readers are encouraged to confirm the accuracy and relevance of the data before making any significant decisions. SBI General Insurance disclaims responsibility for any errors or consequences arising from the use of outdated information provided herein. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales. *Add-ons are subject to payment of additional premium.
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