Any modification to your car from its factory specification can affect your insurance. Some modifications increase premiums significantly.
What Counts as a Modification
| Type | Examples |
|---|
| Performance | Engine remap, turbo, exhaust, air filter |
| Suspension | Lowered springs, coilovers, air ride |
| Wheels | Alloy upgrade, different size |
| Bodywork | Spoiler, body kit, tinted windows |
| Interior | Aftermarket seats, steering wheel |
| Audio | Subwoofers, upgraded speakers |
| Styling | Decals, wraps, neon lights |
How Much Mods Increase Premium
| Modification | Typical Increase |
|---|
| Alloy wheels (upgrade) | 5-15% |
| Window tint | 5-10% |
| Body kit | 10-30% |
| Engine remap | 20-50% |
| Turbo/supercharger | 50-100%+ |
| Exhaust system | 10-25% |
| Lowered suspension | 10-25% |
Declaring Modifications
| What Happens If You Don’t Declare | Consequence |
|---|
| Your policy is void | No payout for ANY claim |
| You could be charged with fraud | Legal consequences |
| Third-party claims denied | You pay out of pocket |
Always declare every modification. If in doubt, ask your insurer.
Specialist vs Standard Insurers
| Insurer Type | Best For |
|---|
| Admiral | Mild modifications (wheels, tints) |
| Direct Line | Some modifications |
| Adrian Flux | All modifications |
| Brentacre | Heavy modifications |
| Greenlight | Young drivers with mods |
| Sky Insurance | Performance cars |
How to Reduce Premiums
| Tip | Saving |
|---|
| Add modifications one at a time | Spreading mods can cost less |
| Get a professional installation | Receipts prove quality work |
| Join a car club | Some offer insurance discounts |
| Limit modifications | The more you mod, the more you pay |
| Use a specialist broker | Better rates for modified cars |
| Increase security | Alarms, immobilisers, tracking |
Modified Car Insurance Tips
- Get quotes before modifying — Know the cost increase
- Keep original parts — Switching back at renewal can reduce costs
- Use a specialist — Standard insurers penalise mods heavily
- Be honest — Non-disclosure voids your policy
Bottom Line
Modified cars cost more to insure. Performance mods (remaps, turbos, exhausts) increase premiums most. Declare every modification — non-disclosure voids your policy. Use a specialist insurer for heavily modified cars. Get quotes before modding so there are no surprises.
This content is for educational purposes only. Not financial advice. Do your own research before investing.