Yes—car insurance covers vandalism if you have comprehensive coverage. This includes damage like keyed paint, smashed windows, slashed tires, or graffiti. If you only carry liability or collision coverage, vandalism isn’t covered and you’ll pay for repairs yourself.
To file a claim and get help with coverage in Illinois, call Insure on the Spot at 773-202-5060.
What Counts as Vandalism on a Car?
Vandalism refers to intentional, malicious damage done to your vehicle by another person. Common examples include:
- Broken windows or windshields
- Keyed or scratched paint
- Slashed or punctured tires
- Graffiti or spray paint
- Dents caused by kicking or striking the vehicle
- Substances poured into the gas tank
These acts are typically covered under your policy—but only if you have comprehensive coverage.
What Type of Insurance Covers Vandalism?
Only comprehensive coverage pays for vandalism damage. This coverage protects your car from non-collision incidents such as:
- Theft
- Fire
- Weather damage
- Animal strikes
- Vandalism
If you have liability-only or collision coverage, you’ll have to pay for vandalism damage out of pocket. With comprehensive, your insurer pays for repairs after you meet your deductible.
Example: If your deductible is $500 and the damage is $1,200, you’ll pay $500 and your insurer pays the remaining $700.
What Should I Do If My Car Is Vandalized?
Follow these steps right away:
1. Document the Damage
Take photos of all visible damage from multiple angles. Don’t touch or clean the area until it’s fully documented.
2. File a Police Report
Most insurers require a report for vandalism claims. Provide all known details to law enforcement and get a report number or copy.
3. Protect Your Vehicle
Cover broken windows or slashed tires to prevent further damage.
4. Contact Your Insurance Company
Call your insurer or file a claim online. Provide your policy number, photos, and the police report number.
How Do You File a Vandalism Insurance Claim?
Here’s a quick overview of the process:
- Report the incident to your insurance company
- Meet with an adjuster or submit damage photos (depending on your insurer)
- Pay your deductible, and your insurer covers the remaining cost
- Repair your vehicle through an approved shop or one of your choice
Will Filing a Vandalism Claim Increase My Insurance Rates?
Possibly—but not by much. A single vandalism claim may raise your premium by around 5%, especially if you’ve filed other claims recently. However, the impact is usually less than an at-fault accident. If this is your first claim, your insurer may not increase your rate significantly.
How Can You Help Prevent Car Vandalism?
While vandalism can’t always be avoided, these steps reduce your risk:
- Park in well-lit, visible areas
- Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight
- Use car alarms, steering wheel locks, or dash cams
- Park near cameras or high-traffic areas
- Vary where you park to avoid becoming a target
Do Leased Vehicles Include Vandalism Coverage?
Yes. Most lease agreements require full coverage, which includes both collision and comprehensive. This means vandalism damage is usually covered automatically for leased cars.
Are Personal Items Stolen During Vandalism Covered?
No. Car insurance doesn’t cover personal belongings stolen from inside your vehicle. If your laptop, purse, or other items are taken, you’d need to file a claim through your homeowners or renters insurance.
Will Insurance Pay for Slashed Tires?
Yes. Slashed tires are covered under comprehensive coverage—whether one, two, or all four are damaged. The myth that “all four must be slashed” for coverage is false.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vandalism Coverage
Q: Do I have to pay a deductible for vandalism damage?
A: Yes, your comprehensive deductible applies before your insurer pays for repairs.
Q: Should I file a claim for minor damage?
A: If the damage cost is close to your deductible, it might be more cost-effective to pay out of pocket.
Q: Are stolen personal items covered by car insurance?
A: No. Personal items are not covered by auto insurance—use your renters or homeowners policy instead.
Q: How do I file a vandalism claim?
A: Document the damage, file a police report, and contact your insurer to start the claims process.
Q: Will a vandalism claim affect my record?
A: Your driving record won’t be affected, but your insurance premium might increase slightly.
Get Vandalism Coverage That Protects Your Vehicle
Comprehensive insurance gives you peace of mind when unexpected damage occurs. If you don’t already have it—or want a better rate—Insure on the Spot can help. Call 773-202-5060 today for a free quote on comprehensive car insurance and let us help you protect what matters most.