Do Car Mods Increase Insurance?

When selecting or customizing a vehicle, the cost of insurance is a primary concern. Because of that, a common question for drivers is, do car mods increase insurance? 

Owners of modified cars often pay more for insurance. To help answer all questions about car mods, here’s an in-depth look at what car mods are and some reasons they lead to higher insurance premiums. 

To get a quote for your modified car, contact Go Auto Insurance. 

What Is a Car Mod? 

A car mod or car modification is any change to a vehicle from its original factory specifications. Modifications can affect appearance or performance. Some common car mods are: 

• Custom paint job
• Window tinting 
• Installation of a larger engine
• Adding a sunroof 
• Seat covers
• Door lock covers
• Alloy wheels 
• Updating suspension
• Updating exhaust 

Why Car Modifications Increase Insurance Premiums 

Car modifications usually lead to an increase in insurance premiums. Sometimes it’s only a small increase, but it can be significant. There are three reasons car mods make insurance more expensive: 

1. Modifications increase the value of the car. The more valuable a car is, the more expensive it is to insure. 
2. Some modifications put a vehicle at an increased risk of being stolen. This increased risk means higher premiums for drivers. 
3. Modifications that enhance performance can make vehicles more dangerous and increase the risk of being involved in an accident. 

Given the increased risks that come with insuring modified cars, drivers can expect to pay more for car insurance after car mods. 

Which Modifications Have the Biggest Impact on Car Insurance

Some modifications are associated with higher risk and result in significant increases in car insurance. Some of the mods that have the largest impact on the cost of insurance are: 

• Engine modifications. This changes the value and the performance of vehicles. Turbocharging, supercharging, or swapping the engine in your vehicle can lead to significant increases in premiums.  
• Body modifications like spoilers or a body kit. These changes increase the value of your car and the cost of replacing or repairing it. 
• Upgrading tires and rims. Tire and wheel upgrades impact the value of your car and increase the risk of theft. 
• Suspension modifications. Modified suspensions can make vehicles less stable and harder to handle. Because this change makes vehicles less safe, it results in higher insurance premiums. 

How to Get Insurance for a Modified Car 

If you’re considering car mods, it’s a good idea to talk with your car insurance company first. Some companies don’t insure modified cars, and some modifications can void your warranty, violate your insurance policy, or even violate your state laws. 

Before making modifications or purchasing a modified car, check with your insurance company and confirm that all changes are legal. This is particularly true if you’re considering changes that: 

• Boost your car’s speed
• Significantly raise or lower the suspension
• Increase exhaust noise
• Impact car safety 
• Increase emissions or decrease your chances of meeting local emission requirements 

If you’re purchasing a modified car or making car mods:  

1. research insurance companies that offer policies to protect your vehicle. 
2. Share as much information as possible about the modifications with the insurance company. You want to be honest and forthcoming about all changes to your vehicle. If you’re not, your policy might not have the coverage you need if you file a claim for repairs or replacement. 

3.  Compare quotes from multiple companies to make sure you are getting the best rate possible. 

Get a Free Auto Insurance Quote

If you’re purchasing a new car or considering changes to your current one, the GoAuto team can help you estimate the cost of insurance. We’ll work with you to create a customized policy to meet the unique needs of your vehicle. 

Contact us to learn more about car mods or get a free quote.