Will My Auto Insurance Cover Modifications?

Are you planning to custom-paint your car or add major modifications like a supercharger? Car customization often brings automobile insurance ramifications. As a result, you will need a special insurance policy from an insurer like Mid Atlantic Insurance Financial in Laurel, MD since your regular auto insurance may not cover the modifications. 

 

 

Vehicle customizations are not made by the manufacturer and are typically not included in the standard auto insurance policies. There are insurers who regard a vehicle as customized or modified when the body, chassis, or frame is structurally modified, or the value of the custom paint costs more than several thousands of dollars, or the autos performance is augmented considerably. Most insurers will not cover these enhancements except for rims and tires, which you have to provide receipts for. Still, the amount that the insurer will pay may be less than the original cost.

 

 

There are two options you have when ensuring your customized automobile:

 

 

Most insurance companies provide endorsements that offer supplemental coverage for after-market components and modifications. The premium you will pay for the extra coverage may equate to approximately 10 percent of the modification value, although this depends on the insurance company. 

 

 

In case your insurer does not provide the supplemental coverage, you may seek protection from an insurance service provider that offers a classic/collectible automobile insurance plans (which will include modified vehicles).

 

Before you can modify your car, read the existing policy thoroughly and understand the exceptions and exclusions. Talk to your insurer or agent and let them know that you want to make changes to the vehicle. The company will advise you accordingly on your options. If you live in Laurel, MD area, consider contacting Mid Atlantic Insurance Financial for more information.