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Important Exclusions: What My Motor Policy Doesn't Cover

Important Exclusions for my car insurance

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Written by Ishmael Hlapolosa
Updated over 2 weeks ago

Know the Limits Before You Claim

Your Pineapple motor insurance covers a lot, but not everything. Every policy has exclusions to set clear boundaries, manage risk, and keep premiums fair. Knowing these up front means fewer surprises if you ever claim.

General Exclusions (Apply to All Cover)

  • Fraud, Dishonesty & Misrepresentation
    Claims based on false, exaggerated, or misleading details will be rejected, and your policy could be cancelled back to the start date.

  • Deliberately Caused Events
    If you (or someone helping you) intentionally cause damage or loss, there’s no cover.

  • War, Riots, Strikes & Terrorism
    These are excluded under Pineapple’s policy but still covered by SASRIA.

  • Nuclear Risks
    Any loss from nuclear material, radiation, or nuclear weapons is excluded.

  • Confiscation by Authorities
    If your car is seized, impounded, or nationalised (even unknowingly buying a stolen car), it’s not covered.

  • Consequential Loss
    Indirect losses, like lost income while your car is in repairs, aren’t covered unless stated otherwise.

  • Theft Under False Pretences (Scams)
    Selling your car but never getting paid? Unfortunately, that’s not covered.

  • Unauthorised Repairs
    If you fix your car without our go-ahead, we won’t pay for it.

Specific Motor Vehicle Exclusions

  • Incorrect Use: Using the vehicle outside the declared “Description of Use” (e.g., using a privately insured car for deliveries without telling us).

  • Unlicensed Driving: Driving without a valid licence — or letting someone else do so (unless a learner follows all legal rules).

  • Driving Under the Influence: Includes alcohol, drugs, certain medication, or refusing a breath/blood test.

  • Unroadworthy Vehicles: If your car wasn’t roadworthy at the time, your claim could be rejected.

  • Leaving the Scene: Driving away from an accident without giving details or getting permission.

  • Pre-Existing Damage: Any damage that existed before your policy started.

  • Damage from Grid Failure
    Loss caused by power cuts, outages, or blackouts.

  • Stolen/Counterfeit Goods: No cover for items in your possession illegally.

  • Gross Negligence: Serious carelessness, like leaving keys in an unlocked car.

  • Wear & Tear / Mechanical Breakdown: Normal deterioration, breakdowns, or poor maintenance aren’t covered.

  • Damage by Insects, Pests, or Pets: Yes, even your own cat.

  • Leaving Keys in Unsafe Areas: Handing them to someone irresponsible or leaving them somewhere unsafe.

  • Domestic Disputes: Loss or damage from disputes within your household.

  • Incorrect Fuel/Oil: Using the wrong type for your car.

  • Exceeding Wading Depth: Driving through water deeper than your car’s manufacturer's limit.

Tip: Always check your full policy wording for the complete list of exclusions, and if you are in doubt, ask us before you take the risk.

*The information provided here is for informational purposes only. For the full terms and conditions, please consult your policy wording.

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