ModifiedCar Insurance

What is modified car insurance?

A specialist insurance provider focuses on vehicles that have been altered from their factory specifications.

In the wider insurance market, not all insurers can fully cover cars with enhancements, so finding the right policy is important. Some companies specifically offer modified car insurance to protect both the standard vehicle and any upgrades or custom parts. Experienced insurers understand modified cars and know how to assess the risks, replacement costs, and repair requirements that come with non-standard modifications.

What counts as a car modification?

Any change made to your car that alters it from the manufacturer’s original specification counts as a modification. If your car has any modifications, you must inform your insurer.

A wide range of modifications can be made to vehicles, from performance upgrades to visual enhancements, and each has different implications for insurance. Cosmetic mods include things like paint changes, spoilers, alloy wheels, and window tints, which mainly affect the car’s appearance and value. An addition or upgrade can impact car performance. These can include engine remaps, suspension improvements, or exhaust changes.

Is modified car insurance expensive?

Modifications can make car insurance more expensive than standard policies because insurers see these vehicles as higher risk. Each change to the car influences your insurance premium, including performance upgrades or valuable additions. Even cosmetic improvements or security features can affect insurance, since providers factor them into your risk profile.

How much does modified car insurance cost?

The cost of your modified car insurance depends on many factors, including the type of modifications, the car’s age, and your personal driving history. What’s more, different insurance companies may price the same vehicle differently, so it pays to shop around. Specialist insurers provide better options for heavily altered cars, whereas standard policies may only cover minor changes. Make sure to compare quotes to identify the best value for your coverage.

What are the most popular types of car modification?

Customising a vehicle can be as simple as a small tweak or as bold as a full upgrade. Here’s an overview of the modifications that you see most often:

• Performance upgrades – Exhaust system, suspension upgrades, brake improvements
• Cosmetic mods – Alloy wheels, body kits, custom paintwork, window tints, interior lighting
• Technology & convenience – Parking sensors, audio system upgrades
• Special vehicles – Upgraded cargo storage in modified vans, roof tents, custom interiors, or interior detailing
• Car enthusiasts & show cars – Modified cars for shows, a combination of performance and cosmetic mods, personalised styling choices

If you drive a special vehicle, you might need a different type of cover, such as classic car insurance or campervan insurance. These policies provide bespoke protection for your vehicle’s unique needs beyond modified insurance.

How modified car insurance cover differs from standard cover

With a regular policy, there are many things that could invalidate your insurance. In the event of a claim, these insurers may refuse to pay for repairs or replacement of parts that deviate from the manufacturer’s original specifications.

If you need to make a claim, a specialist policy will take your modifications into account. Insurers assess the full value of your car, including upgrades, rather than just the base model. If your car is written off or you’re involved in an accident, specialist insurance can provide like-for-like replacement or agreed-value payouts, which general insurance might not offer.

Optional extras

Many insurance services provide additional cover to extend protection beyond a standard policy. Please keep in mind that they also affect the insurance cost.

Breakdown cover

This optional extra arranges roadside assistance if your car breaks down, including towing to a garage if required. Some plans also cover labour at the scene, so minor repairs don’t leave you stranded.

Motor legal protection

Covers the cost of legal advice and representation if you need to make or defend a motoring claim. This can include disputes over accidents, injury claims, or recovery of uninsured losses.

Personal accident cover

Provides a set payment if you or your passengers are injured in a car accident. It can cover hospital stays and medical bills, or other immediate expenses resulting from the incident.

Courtesy car cover

Supplies a temporary vehicle while your car is being repaired after an accident or breakdown. This keeps you mobile without having to arrange rentals or rely on public transport.

Windscreen cover

Covers the cost to repair or replace a cracked or broken windscreen. Some policies include mobile repair units that come to your home or workplace to fix the damage quickly.

What details do I need to get a car insurance quote?

To get an accurate quote, you’ll need to provide some essential details. Based on what most providers and comparison sites require, have the following ready:

• Age
• Occupation
• Home address & where the car is parked overnight
• Car usage (social, commuting, business)
• Estimated annual mileage
• Driving licence number
• Car registration number
• Purchase date of the car
• Vehicle modifications
• Your No Claims Discount
• Accident/claims history (last 5 years)
• Convictions or penalties (last 5 years)
• Additional drivers

FAQ

Do I need to declare every modification to my insurer?

Yes. It’s important to declare them to your insurer to make sure your cover is valid. Even small cosmetic or security changes should be mentioned. If you’re unsure whether a modification counts, check with your insurer before making the change.

How do modifications affect the cost of insurance?

Changes to your car can influence the risk profile and, therefore, the premium. Modified car insurance policies take into account performance upgrades, cosmetic alterations, and safety features when calculating your price. Some modifications may increase costs, but security or safety improvements could reduce them.

Are some modifications illegal or uninsurable?

Yes. Certain modifications, like overly loud exhausts or neon underglow lights, are illegal. Heavily modified cars may also require a specialist insurer because standard policies might not provide adequate cover.

What’s the difference between declared value and agreed value?

Declared value is an estimate of your car’s worth, usually based on market value. Agreed value is a fixed amount agreed with the insurer when the policy starts, which covers the full value of your car and its modifications in case of a total loss.

Can I get modified car insurance if I’m a young driver?

Yes, young drivers can insure a modified vehicle, but premiums tend to be higher due to the increased risk. Specialist insurers are more likely to cover younger drivers with modified cars. Working with a company providing modified insurance helps ensure your car’s value, performance changes, and safety features are properly recognised.

Can I insure a car with previous modifications even if I bought it used?

Yes. Modified car owners buying second-hand vehicles must declare any pre-existing changes. If you don’t take care of this, your cover might not apply when you need it most.

What happens if I modify my car mid-policy?

If you’re modifying your car after the policy has started, you must notify your insurer. The cost of your insurance may increase or decrease depending on the type of modification, and you might need to pay a minor administration fee.