I parked my 1968 Beetle after a drive. Twenty minutes later, my garage was on fire. The ethanol in modern gas had eaten through the original German braided fuel lines, dripping gas onto the hot distributor. The car was a total loss. The insurer investigated for “Arson” because I had recently increased the value.
Key Takeaways
- Ethanol is the Enemy: Vintage rubber lines dissolve with E10/E15 gas. This is the #1 cause of classic car fires in 2026.
- “Mechanical Breakdown” vs. Fire: The fuel line failure is a mechanical breakdown (not covered). The resulting fire is a covered peril.
- Investigation is Standard: Car fires are always suspicious. Expect a “Cause and Origin” investigation.
- Fire Suppression Systems: Installing a “BlazeCut” or onboard halon system can lower premiums and save the car.
The “Why” (The Trap): Resulting Loss
The policy excludes the part that failed (the $2 fuel hose).
It covers the “Ensuing Loss” (the fire that burned the $20,000 car).
However, if the insurer can prove you knew the lines were leaking and ignored it, they can deny for “Neglect.”
[IMAGE: Photo of a burnt engine bay focusing on the melted fuel filter]
The Investigation: I Called Them
I asked about fire prevention discounts.
1. Chubb
- Discounts: They offer discounts for onboard fire suppression systems.
- Stance: Very proactive on safety education.
2. Foremost
- Stance: Standard coverage. They pay the claim but will drop you afterwards if it was due to maintenance neglect.
3. Hagerty
- Stance: They publish articles warning about this constantly. They pay the claim but urge you to use ethanol-safe lines (PTFE) on the replacement.
Comparison Table
| Item | Standard Rubber Hose | PTFE (Teflon) Hose | Extinguisher |
| Lifespan | 2-5 years (with Ethanol) | Lifetime | N/A |
| Fire Risk | High | Low | Reduces Damage |
| Insurance Impact | Potential “Neglect” | Preferred | Premium Discount |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Replace Lines Now: If you haven’t changed your fuel lines in 5 years, do it this weekend. Use Gates Barricade or PTFE lines.
- Buy a Halotron Extinguisher: Do not use dry chemical (white powder). It destroys the metal/wiring. Use Halotron (clean gas). Mount it in reach of the driver.
- Install a Battery Cutoff: Most electrical fires happen when the car is parked. A $10 cutoff switch saves the garage.
- Document Maintenance: Keep the receipt for the new fuel lines. If a fire happens, this proves you were not negligent.
FAQ Section
Does insurance cover the garage too?
Your auto policy covers the car. Your Homeowners policy covers the garage. You will file two claims.
What if I modified the carb?
If the modification caused the leak (e.g., loose fitting), it’s still covered as accidental, unless you were grossly negligent.
Why is an investigation required?
Because burning a car is the easiest way to commit insurance fraud. Cooperate fully.