Which of the following is NOT considered an insured peril in auto physical damage insurance?

In auto physical damage insurance, perils are specific risks or causes of loss that the insurance policy covers. An insured peril typically includes events that are mostly outside the driver's control and can cause damage to the vehicle.

Fire, theft, and wind represent examples of events commonly covered by auto physical damage policies. Fire can cause significant damage to the vehicle, theft involves the loss of the car, and wind can lead to damage from falling branches or debris during storms. All of these events are generally included in the definition of insured perils, as they are sudden and accidental occurrences that can lead to substantial losses.

On the other hand, road damage to tires does not fall under the traditional definition of an insured peril. While tire damage might result from factors like potholes or debris on the road, this type of wear and tear or maintenance-related expenses is typically excluded from coverage as it is considered a result of the natural use of the vehicle, rather than an unexpected incident. Insurers often see tire damage as a regular cost of vehicle operation rather than something that should be covered under physical damage insurance. Thus, it is not classified as an insured peril in this context.