Insurance for Modified or Custom Cars
An insurance firm would class a modified or custom vehicle as a car that has had alterations to its standard factory specification. Modifications could be as little as adding a different exhaust to as elaborate as a fully body kit. Engine tuning is also classed as a modification so if you have whacked on an induction kit or chipped the ECU then your car is officially modified.
It is important that you tell your insurance company if your car has been customised in any shape or form. If you don't, your insurance could be invalid.
If you drive a modified motor, you will know how hard it can be to find an insurer prepared to cover you without forking out extortionate sums of money. Many of the mainstream insurers will charge high rates for even the smallest of modifications; others will simply not provide insurance for cars that have been customised.Specialist Modified Car Insurers
However, all is not lost. There are a few insurance firms that specialise in insuring modified cars. They offer great levels of cover and often tailor their benefits to suit the modified car market. For example, some firms will assess the value of your car including the modifications. This means that if you were to have to make a claim, you would be covered for the true value of the vehicle.
Cover for Modifications
Specialist custom car insurers will generally be able to provide cover for any modifications you install. If you have spent thousands on a new body kit, the last thing you will want to hear is that your insurance firm won't help with the cost of replacement and repair. Similarly, if you take out standard car insurance without declaring a car modification not only would you run the risk of your insurance being void, but you definitely won't be covered for any mods you have installed in the vehicle - this will include any ICE.
Improved Security Will Lower Insurance Costs
If you are still struggling to find cheap insurance for your modified car then considering spending a bit of money on some extra security. A good quality immobiliser or tracking device, approved by your insurers will definitely help lower your premiums. Similarly, where possible, ensure you park your car off street at night, preferably in a garage.
There are a number of modified car insurance specialists on the market so shop around and compare the level of cover with the cost of the quote.
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This site is for information only and cannot offer insurance advice for your particular situation.
Consult with an FSA authorised insurance advisor if unsure on any topics related to car insurance.
