Log in to our new Customer Portal

24/7 access to your policy, documents and claims

Claims Review

Club 4X4 Claims Review – Daryl Smedley

‘Stop, stop, stop!’ I heard over the UHF, as the coolant drain out of My brand new, sub 2000km, Prado.

Image
Club 4X4 Insurance
Jun 15 2017

Jun 15 2017

Image

Club 4×4 – The first modification for your four-wheel-drive.

‘Stop, stop, stop!’ I heard over the UHF, as the coolant drain out of My brand new, sub 2000km, Prado. We were out on the Prado’s maiden voyage to the Watagans, but unfortunately it wasn’t the day we had all planned. The trip finished early after a rouge tree root wedged its way through the only gap between the bull-bar and bash plate, destroying the radiator, intercooler and a host of other expensive Toyota parts. To say I was upset would be an understatement – I’m sure we have all been there!

After the tow-truck ride back to my mechanic in Sydney, I broke the bad news to Club 4×4; that the recently purchased Prado was in need of some fixing. The only real question from Club 4×4 was, “Which mechanic is doing the repairs?” Club 4×4 handled the rest.

After all new parts were flown from Toyota in Japan, the vehicle was back on the road ready to hit the tracks. Who knew a simple tree root could do nearly $7000 in damage? Luckily the first modification I forked out for was comprehensive 4×4 insurance, making the whole process easy – it was unlikely that a typical insurer would have provided the same level of cover (if any) while out in the bush!

Cheers, Daryl

Image
Image
Club 4X4 Insurance
Blog

Discover other stories

View all

Warm up with weekly articles aimed at adventure

Land Rover Defender

Reviews & Comparisons

Land Rover Defender Review: Built for Australia's Wildest Roads

The Land Rover Defender has come a long way from its farm-hand origins. In this review, we explore how the modern Defender balances comfort, capability and technology, and whether it still deserves its place among Australia's most iconic adventure vehicles.

Read more  

The Land Rover Defender has come a long way from its farm-hand origins. In this review, we explore how the modern Defender balances comfort, capability and technology, and whether it still deserves its place among Australia's most iconic adventure vehicles.

Mount Buffalo, Vic High Country

Trips & Destinations

Snow Camping in the Victorian High Country

Most Australians spend winter trying to stay warm. Snow campers spend it deliberately sleeping in sub-zero temperatures. If you've ever wanted to experience the Victorian High Country under a blanket of snow, this guide covers everything you need to know, from road closures and sleeping systems to snow chains, camp setup and staying warm when the temperature drops.

Read more  

Most Australians spend winter trying to stay warm. Snow campers spend it deliberately sleeping in sub-zero temperatures. If you've ever wanted to experience the Victorian High Country under a blanket of snow, this guide covers everything you need to know, from road closures and sleeping systems to snow chains, camp setup and staying warm when the temperature drops.

A 4X4 Ford Range with a popped rooftop tent behind a campfire in the bush at night

Trips & Destinations

Is Victoria’s “Big Desert” Really a Desert?

Big Desert might not look like the deserts you're picturing, but beneath Victoria's mallee scrub lies some of the state's best sand driving. From remote campsites to surprisingly challenging tracks, here's what to expect before you go.

Read more  

Big Desert might not look like the deserts you're picturing, but beneath Victoria's mallee scrub lies some of the state's best sand driving. From remote campsites to surprisingly challenging tracks, here's what to expect before you go.

View all