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In a garage, the definition of a modified car can stir up some heated debates. Some modifications are purely about increasing speed and power while others allow drivers to personalize their vehicle without making any major changes to performance. Regardless of what has been added, removed, replaced or rigged most insurance companies adhere to the following policy: a modified vehicle is any vehicle, which has been altered mechanically from its factory set up. There is not much wiggle room here.

Obviously, installing a different power plant or converting the stock interior to a racing cockpit would be modifications you would expect to affect your insurance premiums. However, many drivers would be surprised to learn that adding a rear wing, a body lift kit or changing tire sizes are all modifications that must be reported to insurance companies. Failure to do so can possibly negate coverage should the need to file a claim arise. What occurs when you DO report any modifications depend greatly on what changes you have made and why.

Modified car insurance is not just for the track or drag strip. Even aesthetic changes such as custom body trim, fenders, and bumpers should be accounted for to your existing insurer or a prospective policy writer. That said, modified insurers do understand that adding an after market light bar to a mid-size pick up is not justification for an excessive monthly premium charge. Conversely, insuring a car that is no longer street legal is going to involve some rate adjustments.

Purchasing car insurance for modified cars is one of those times when honestly really is the best policy. If you are modifying a car you have already insured be specific about what you have changed. This might not ensure that you get the most affordable car insurance policy but it will protect you from the insurer fighting a claim later on. Depending on the changes, being made there may be no resulting rate increase, particularly in the case of modifications to appearance only.

If a vehicle is being modified for racing or auto shows, it may fall into a separate category reserved for automobiles that will not be driven on public streets.

While there are several insurers that claim to cater specifically to modified vehicle owners, most major insurance companies are willing to write a modified car policy. To achieve the most satisfactory results when buying or changing an auto insurance policy be honest, be direct about your intentions and if you’re adding speed and power to a street vehicle be prepared for higher premiums.