What is a Zero-depreciation (bumper-to-bumper)?
Zero-depreciation (or bumper-to-bumper) is a car-insurance add-on that pays the full cost of replaced parts at a claim, without cutting for wear and tear (depreciation). Without it, plastic, rubber and fibre parts especially are paid at a depreciated value, so you fund the gap. It is most valuable on newer cars.
How zero-dep changes a claim
In a normal own-damage claim, insurers apply depreciation to replaced parts based on their material and the vehicle's age, so you receive less than the new-part price. Plastic and fibre parts attract the steepest depreciation.
Zero-depreciation waives that deduction, so replaced parts are paid at full cost (you still pay the compulsory deductible and any non-covered items). It usually adds premium and is offered mainly on newer vehicles.
Example
After an accident, several plastic panels are replaced. Without zero-dep, depreciation on those parts leaves a large out-of-pocket gap; with zero-dep, they are paid at full replacement cost minus only the compulsory deductible.
Common mistakes
- Skipping zero-dep on a new car to save a little premium, then absorbing heavy depreciation at a claim.
- Assuming zero-dep covers the deductible or consumables — those are separate.
Frequently asked questions
Is zero-depreciation worth it?
For newer cars and expensive-to-repair models it usually pays for itself in a single claim by removing depreciation on parts. On older cars the benefit and availability shrink.
Do I still pay anything with zero-dep?
Yes. The compulsory deductible and any non-covered items still apply. Zero-dep only removes the depreciation cut on replaced parts.