Running a mechanic shop is more than fixing engines—it’s about keeping your livelihood on the road. From unexpected accidents to costly equipment damage, even a minor setback can bring operations to a halt. This insurance update covers the essential protections your business needs to stay open, safe, and profitable—so you can focus on what you do best: keeping your customers moving.
All insurance is essential, but some policies are more essential than others. If your business is not in the best place financially (totally understandable, given that recovery from a pandemic doesn't happen overnight), it's critical to have an open and transparent conversation with your insurer to identify the cover you absolutely can't go without.
You could do your own research, too (you know, to keep those insurers and brokers honest!). To help you along, here's a round-up of three products that should be non-negotiable.
This is for any business operating in the motor trade industry, including vehicle retailers, fuel retailers, fitment centres and (here's your turn) vehicle repair and service centres... aka auto repair shops and garages! Motor Traders Insurance is available to any size of business and can be taken out by part-time mechanics, too. Be sure to ask if all types of vehicles will be covered.
While aspects of Motor Traders Insurance are similar to standard Business Insurance, there are elements that are unique to car repair garages. For example, it covers vehicles on your insured premises against accidental damage, while also extending to vehicles on the road or parked elsewhere in the event of loss or damage.
This would be especially relevant if your shop is so popular that you have a line of cars waiting for your attention (fingers crossed!), or if one of your employees takes a client's vehicle for a test drive and gets into a fender bender.
This type of insurance can also cover specialised equipment and the expensive stock you keep on hand should these be damaged in the event of fire, water, explosion or impact.
South African roads can be dangerous, and when you drive for a living, this type of Business Insurance is crucial to get right. When you compare quotes for passenger transport insurance, be sure to look at the benefits, exclusions, and the cost to find a solution that meets your budget and risk profile.
The name says it all. Business Car and Commercial Property Insurance will be invaluable should your business vehicles or premises suffer from theft, fire damage or a natural disaster. Being comprehensive in nature, it doesn't cover only the big items: you can include the likes of your office computers and other essentials.
Public Liability insurance is important for you and your employees. It protects your business if it's found to be legally responsible for third-party property damage or bodily injury suffered during working hours. This includes cases of negligence resulting in the death, bodily injury or illness of any person, as well as accidental loss of or damage.
It's grim to think that you might ever need this, but the reality is that anything can happen anytime. Be prepared for any possibility, while hoping it never comes to pass.
1,3 MILLION car insurance quotes per year. That’s a lot of saving!
I saw the advert on my phone confirming that if I need assistance when looking for insurance Hippo can assist. The advert also told me to press for urgent assistance. I did. I was assisted immediately.
By advertising on social media all insurance companies. I have saved R400 from the insurance that I choose.
Execellent service, timeous response, great communication and a good overall experience finding the ideal insurance for you.
I was desperate for an insurance an affordable premium as Auto General had suddenly communicated that they would charge me R2400. Hippo provided affordable options and within 3 hours, I had new insurance cover at a good rate and the old insurance cancelled.
The lady that helped she was the best and honest with everything we discussed about their insurance company. Thank you dear for the best customer service.
Keep your tools, premises, and customers’ vehicles safe with Motor Traders Insurance.
This cover is ideal for auto repair shops, mechanics, and fitment centres. It protects customer cars, your tools, and on-site vehicles—whether in the shop, out for testing, or parked.
It covers injury or property damage to customers or visitors caused by your work—like a customer slipping on oil or a damaged vehicle leaving your shop.
Absolutely. Hippo.co.za lets you compare customisable insurance options, perfect for weekend mechanics or mobile repairers looking to protect their tools and customers' cars.
Compare cover for motor traders, repairers, and mechanics—whatever your setup.
Protect your clients and your business in one step.
Compare Business Insurance and find a plan that meets your needs. Whether you want comprehensive cover or more focused shuttle business liability coverage, looking at multiple options online helps you make an informed decision.