You are rock bouncing. You gas it up a ledge. SNAP. The CV axle shears. You file a claim. The adjuster asks for photos. They see a clean shear on the shaft. “Mechanical Breakdown. Denied.”
Key Takeaways
- Mechanical Breakdown Exclusion: Insurance covers external impacts (hitting a rock). It does not cover internal failures caused by torque (hitting the gas).
- The “Resulting Damage” Loophole: If the axle breaks and flails around, smashing the brake caliper and shock, the axle is denied, but the caliper and shock might be covered as “resulting collision damage.”
- Impact Evidence: You must prove the part failed because it hit something, not because it was weak. Scrape marks on the A-arm help your case.
- Aftermarket Axles: If you have Gorilla or RCV axles (expensive), insure them under CPE.
The “Why” (The Trap): Torque vs. Trauma
If you are in 4-Low and stomp the pedal, you are stressing the parts. If they snap, that is a maintenance/durability issue.
If you slide sideways and slam the wheel into a boulder, snapping the axle, that is a Collision.
The Evidence:
- Spiral Fracture: Indicates torque (twist). Denied.
- Clean Break/Bend: Indicates impact. Covered.
The Investigation: The Claim Conversation
- Scenario A: “I was climbing a hill and the axle snapped.” -> Denied.
- Scenario B: “I hit a submerged stump which stopped the wheel instantly, snapping the axle.” -> Covered. (Must be true).
Comparison Table: Broken Parts
| Failure Mode | Coverage | Reason |
| CV Joint Explodes (Torque) | Denied | Mechanical Breakdown |
| Bent A-Arm (Impact) | Covered | Collision |
| Belt Snap | Denied | Wear Item |
| Axle Snaps -> Smashes Fender | Fender Covered / Axle Denied | Resulting Damage |
[IMAGE: Photo of a broken CV axle hanging from the suspension]
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Analyze the Break: Look at the metal. Is it twisted? Don’t bother claiming it.
- Look for Impact Marks: Are there gouges on the rim or A-arm nearby? Document them. This proves an external object caused the force.
- Resulting Damage: Check for collateral damage. Did the flailing shaft cut the brake line? That is a valid claim.
- Don’t Lie: Adjusters know what torque failure looks like.
FAQ
Does warranty cover axles?
OEM warranty? Rarely for off-road use. Aftermarket warranty (RCV)? Yes, they often have a “You break it, we replace it” guarantee. Use that, not insurance.