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guaranteed auto protection GAP

Guaranteed auto protection is insurance covering the difference between the actual cash value (ACV) of a damaged or stolen vehicle and the amount owed on the car under a loan or lease.

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guaranteed auto protection GAP

Guaranteed auto protection is insurance covering the difference between the actual cash value (ACV) of a damaged or stolen vehicle and the amount owed on the car under a loan or lease.

Additional Information


This difference arises due to the rapid depreciation of most automobiles in their early years and can prove problematic if the car is totaled in an accident or if it is stolen and not recovered. GAP coverage is often sold through credit unions and automobile finance companies and frequently written on leased vehicles. For example, if a leased car with an ACV of $20,000 is stolen, the physical damage section of the auto policy would pay $20,000 minus any applicable deductible. However, if the lease still had $25,000 outstanding, the insured would be liable for the extra $5,000. GAP insurance would pay the extra $5,000 to the leasing company. In recent years, GAP insurance has become available by endorsement under either a commercial or a personal auto policy.

Synonyms

Gap insurance