Teilkasko and Vollkasko difference: What protection your car really needs and how to optimise costs
20 Apr 2025
12
Minutes
Katrin Straub
CEO at nextsure
The difference between third-party, fire, and theft insurance and fully comprehensive insurance is often unclear, but it significantly influences your insurance coverage and costs. A wrong choice can quickly become expensive in the event of a claim, whereas optimal coverage can save you hundreds of euros annually. This guide explains the differences in practical terms and helps you make the right decision for your vehicle.
The topic in brief and concise terms
The partial coverage includes damages caused by external influences (e.g. theft, storm, glass breakage), while the comprehensive coverage also includes self-inflicted accidents and vandalism.
Fully comprehensive insurance is usually worthwhile for new cars and young used cars up to five years old; thereafter, switching to third-party, fire and theft cover can be sensible and save costs.
With an appropriate deductible (typically €150 for partial coverage and €300-500 for full coverage) and optional repair shop commitment, premiums can often be reduced by over twenty percent.
Quick Facts: Key Information on Partial and Comprehensive Insurance at a Glance
The partial coverage (Teilkasko) covers damages caused by external factors, for which you as a driver are generally not responsible. This includes, for example, theft, fire, glass breakage, or damage from storms and hail. Comprehensive coverage (Vollkasko) includes all the benefits of partial coverage and extends this protection to include self-inflicted accident damage as well as wilful damage by third parties (vandalism). A general rule of thumb is: for new cars and young used cars up to an age of about five years, comprehensive coverage is often the better choice. For older vehicles, partial coverage or even just the motor vehicle liability insurance might suffice, depending on the residual value of the car. The costs for partial coverage often start at under ten euros per month, while comprehensive coverage can be, on average, about thirty percent more expensive.
Practice section: Services and costs in direct comparison
Scope of Coverage: What's Insured Where?
To make the difference between third-party, fire and theft insurance and comprehensive insurance tangible, we look at typical claims. The third-party, fire and theft insurance covers costs for damages caused by theft, fire or explosion, as well as short-circuit. Additionally, natural disaster damages such as storms from wind force seven, hail, lightning strikes or flooding are covered. An important point is the protection against glass breakage and wildlife accidents; most third-party, fire and theft policies offer this. The comprehensive insurance goes further: It also pays for self-inflicted accidents to your own vehicle and vandalism, like scratched paint. Many insurers also offer a new for old replacement in comprehensive insurance for up to 24 months.
Cost Analysis: What Premiums Should You Expect?
The insurance contributions vary significantly. On average, a third-party, fire and theft policy costs about 82 euros annually, whereas a comprehensive policy costs around 321 euros per year. These figures are averages; your individual premium depends on factors such as vehicle type, regional class, your no-claims bonus (relevant only for comprehensive insurance), and the chosen excess. An excess of 150 euros for third-party, fire and theft and 300 to 500 euros for comprehensive insurance is common and can reduce the premium by up to thirty percent. Here's an example: If comprehensive insurance without an excess costs 600 euros annually, it can reduce to 450 euros with a 300 euros excess.
Comparison Table: Third-Party, Fire and Theft vs. Comprehensive
The following table shows the key differences in coverage at a glance:
Theft and Robbery: Third-party, fire and theft yes, Comprehensive yes
Fire and Explosion: Third-party, fire and theft yes, Comprehensive yes
Glass Breakage: Third-party, fire and theft yes, Comprehensive yes
Natural Disasters (Storm, Hail, etc.): Third-party, fire and theft yes, Comprehensive yes
Wildlife Accidents (often animals of all kinds): Third-party, fire and theft yes, Comprehensive yes
Marten Damage (often including consequential damages): Third-party, fire and theft yes, Comprehensive yes
Self-Caused Accident Damages: Third-party, fire and theft no, Comprehensive yes
Vandalism: Third-party, fire and theft no, Comprehensive yes
This overview makes it clear that comprehensive insurance offers broader protection, which is reflected in the price. The next section will highlight when each type of coverage is worthwhile for you.
Decision-Making Aid: When is Which Comprehensive Insurance Option Worthwhile?
New Cars and Young Used Cars: Comprehensive Insurance as Standard?
For new cars and young used vehicles that are not older than five years, comprehensive insurance is generally recommended. The depreciation is highest in the first years, and repairs can quickly become expensive. Especially for financed or leased vehicles, comprehensive insurance is often even contractually required to protect the lender or leasing partner. A comprehensive policy also covers the annoying case of a total loss, where you would otherwise be left with a significant financial loss.
Older Vehicles: Is Third-Party Liability or Only Third-Party Necessary?
If your vehicle has already clocked up several years and miles, the question arises: Is comprehensive insurance still worthwhile? The general rule is: if the market value of the car drops significantly below, for example, 4,000 euros, switching to third-party coverage may be sensible. Third-party insurance still covers important risks such as theft or glass breakage, which are relevant even for older vehicles. If the residual value of the vehicle is very low, it may be worth considering foregoing all comprehensive cover and limiting yourself to the statutory motor vehicle liability. This is an individual assessment of cost versus risk.
Our Expert Tip: Regular Insurance Situation Check
Review your insurance cover at least once a year or when major changes occur (e.g., vehicle age, driver profile). Switching from comprehensive to third-party insurance can often save several hundred euros per year. Also consider your personal risk appetite and financial situation. The decision for or against more comprehensive coverage is always individual. The no-claims bonus plays an important role in costing comprehensive insurance and will be explained in more detail in the next section.
Expert Depth: No-claims classes, excess and legal foundations
Understanding and Utilizing No-Claims Bonus Classes (SF Classes)
The no-claims bonus class (SF Class) is a central factor for the premium amount in third-party liability and comprehensive insurance – it is not relevant for partial coverage. The longer you drive without an accident, the higher your SF Class rises and the cheaper your premium becomes. There are up to 50 SF Classes, with novice drivers often starting in Class 0 or ½. After a settled claim, there is a downgrade to a lower SF Class, which leads to higher premiums. A discount protection can prevent a downgrade once a year but is often associated with additional costs.
Choosing Deductibles Wisely to Reduce Premiums
A deductible is the amount you bear yourself in the event of a claim. For partial coverage, a deductible of €150 is common, and often €300 or €500 for comprehensive coverage. Agreeing to a deductible can significantly reduce your insurance premium – sometimes by over twenty percent. Consider which amount you can easily afford yourself in an emergency. For smaller comprehensive insurance claims, it can sometimes be cheaper to pay them yourself to avoid a downgrade of the SF Class.
Relevant Sections and Current Judgments
The Insurance Contract Act (VVG) forms the legal framework for comprehensive insurance. Important aspects include, for example, the policyholder's obligations to notify (§ 19 VVG) or regulations on increased risk (§ 23 VVG). In disputes, such as over the amount of compensation or suspected gross negligence, current court judgments can become relevant. For example, the Federal Court of Justice (BGH) has ruled multiple times on the interpretation of clauses in cases of theft or the necessity of appraisals. It is advisable to know your contractual terms in detail. Knowing these details helps you optimally assert your rights in the event of a claim and choose the appropriate protection for your vehicle.
Additional Modules and Special Cases: Optimising Insurance Coverage
Meaningful Additional Benefits for Your Comprehensive Insurance
In addition to standard benefits, many insurers offer optional add-ons to tailor the coverage to individual needs. A frequently chosen option is the roadside assistance package, which provides help across Europe in the event of breakdowns or accidents, often including towing service and a rental car for up to seven days. For leased vehicles, GAP cover is important; it bridges the financial gap between the replacement value and the higher residual book value of the lease agreement in the event of a total loss or theft. Extended wildlife damage cover, which includes accidents with all animal species (not just game), can also be useful if you often travel in rural areas. Carefully consider which of these additional benefits offer real value for your individual situation.
Special Case Electric Cars: What to Consider for Comprehensive Insurance?
Insuring electric cars has some particularities. A key point is the battery, which often constitutes a significant portion of the vehicle's value. Many policies offer special coverage for the battery, covering damages caused by handling errors during charging, overvoltage, or deep discharge. Consequential damage due to a battery defect, such as a fire, should also be insured. Ensure that the charging cable and wall box are covered against theft or damage. Some insurers even offer new value compensation for the battery for a period of up to 24 months. The specific conditions can vary greatly, making a detailed comparison particularly important here.
Our Expert Tip: Insure Against Gross Negligence
An important, often underestimated point is the insurer's waiver of the objection of gross negligence. If you cause damage through gross negligence (e.g., running a red light), the insurer may reduce or deny the payout. Many policies nowadays include a waiver of this objection, at least up to a certain level of damage or with the exclusion of alcohol and drug-related incidents. This provision can protect you from significant financial disadvantages in serious cases. This way, you are better protected even when a moment of inattention occurs. Choosing and combining the right benefits ensures optimal protection.
Change and Cancellation: Stay Flexible and Harness Savings Potential
When is it sensible to switch from fully comprehensive to third-party, fire and theft insurance?
Switching from fully comprehensive to third-party, fire and theft is often worth considering when the value of your vehicle has significantly decreased. The general rule of thumb is a vehicle age of five to seven years. At the latest, you should take action when the annual premium for fully comprehensive insurance no longer makes economic sense compared to the current value of the car. Such a switch can often reduce your annual insurance costs by more than a hundred euros. However, be aware that by making the switch, you waive coverage for self-inflicted accidents and vandalism. An individual assessment is essential here.
Pay attention to notice periods and special cancellation rights
Most car insurance contracts have a term of one year and automatically renew if not terminated in time. The standard notice period is usually one month before the end of the contract, often 30th November. However, there are also special cancellation rights, for example, after a regulated claim or if the insurer increases the premium without adjusting the coverage. Use these opportunities to switch to a cheaper provider or a more suitable tariff. An annual comparison of insurance options can be worthwhile.
Our expert tip: Don't focus solely on the price
When comparing insurance offers, you should not focus solely on the price. The benefits and contract terms are equally important. A seemingly cheap tariff can prove inadequate in the event of a claim if important coverages are missing or the excess is very high. Pay attention to the overall package of price, benefits, and service. A well-informed decision protects you from unpleasant surprises and ensures the necessary support in case of an emergency. With these considerations, you can find the optimal coverage for you.
Claim: Act correctly and secure entitlements
Behaviour in the Event of Damage: The First Steps
After an accident or other comprehensive damage, quick and correct action is important. First, secure the accident site and provide first aid if necessary. In accidents with injuries or significant property damage (over €1,000), you should always call the police. Document the damage as accurately as possible: take photos of the damaged vehicles and the surroundings. Note down license plates, names, and addresses of other parties involved and any witnesses. Report the damage to your insurance promptly – there are often deadlines of only seven days for this.
Damage Report to the Insurance: What is Required?
For a damage report, your insurance typically requires your policy number, the vehicle registration number, details of the accident, as well as the location and time of the incident. Complete the damage report carefully and truthfully. In the event of theft, a police report is required, and you must provide the reference number to your insurer. For larger claims, the insurer will often appoint an assessor or ask you to submit a repair estimate from a workshop. Keep all receipts and correspondence carefully. A correct damage report speeds up settlement.
Our Expert Tip: Workshop Binding and Free Workshop Choice
Many comprehensive policies include a workshop binding, which can reduce the premium by up to twenty per cent. This means you must have your vehicle repaired at a partner workshop of the insurer in the event of damage. Before signing a contract, check if the partner workshops are easily accessible to you and have a good reputation. If you choose another workshop despite the binding, the insurer may reduce the reimbursement, often by fifteen per cent of the repair costs. The choice of the right workshop can significantly impact the quality of the repair and your satisfaction. With this information, you are well prepared for any eventuality.
Conclusion: Making the Right Comprehensive Cover Decision
More useful links
Wikipedia offers comprehensive information about comprehensive insurance in Germany.
FAQ
Does the partial coverage also include marten damage and consequential losses?
Yes, many partial coverage insurances cover damage caused by martens. Good policies also include the often costly consequential damages that can occur due to the marten bite (e.g., to the electronics or engine), up to a certain amount or even without limit.
Does the no-claims class affect the contribution of the partial coverage insurance?
No, the no-claims class (SF class) only affects the premiums for third-party car insurance and comprehensive insurance. There are no SF classes for partial comprehensive insurance, as the insured damages are generally not the driver's fault.
What happens to my comprehensive insurance in the event of a total loss?
In the event of a total loss, fully comprehensive insurance typically reimburses the replacement value of the vehicle at the time of the loss. Many policies offer new-for-old cover for a specified period (e.g., 12 to 24 months), during which the full purchase price is reimbursed. An agreed excess is deducted.
Is vandalism covered by partial or comprehensive insurance?
Damage caused by vandalism, such as scratched paintwork or broken mirrors, is typically only covered by comprehensive insurance. Third-party, fire and theft insurance generally does not cover vandalism.
Can I subsequently change the deductible in comprehensive insurance?
Yes, in most cases, you can adjust the excess for your partial or comprehensive insurance during the contract term. Reducing the excess usually results in a higher premium, while increasing it tends to lower the premium. Please contact your insurer for more information.
Is a comprehensive insurance worth it for a very old car?
For very old cars with a low residual value (e.g., under €2,000), comprehensive insurance often no longer makes sense. The premiums may exceed the potential reimbursement amount in the event of a claim. In this case, liability-only car insurance may suffice.
