Cheap Auto Insurance Companies That Allow Modifications in 2024

Modifications to a vehicle allow owners to express themselves in many different ways. With modifications, you can increase your car’s performance, set it apart from the rest, and improve its functionality in various ways. 

What most people don’t realize is that modifications can have a significant impact on their auto insurance coverage. So if you plan to modify your vehicle or already have, let your insurance company know in order to ensure your policy will still cover your vehicle.

There are a few car insurance companies that allow modifications. Keep reading to find out more.

What is the best insurance for modified cars?

You will find that most insurance companies allow policyholders to modify their vehicles. Because of this, it may be challenging to choose an insurance company based on whether they allow modifications alone.

One of the best ways to determine whether an insurance company will work for you is to shop online and compare rates from multiple companies. But some companies are known for insuring vehicles with significant modifications. These companies include the following:

• Hagerty
• J.C. Taylor
• Grundy
• Safeco
• American Collectors
• American Modern
• Esurance

Many insurance companies that allow modifications offer it as a standard option for people who purchase and rebuild classic or vintage cars. If this is your situation, you’re in good company, as these cars have grown quite popular over the past few years.

Still, if you own a modern vehicle and want to make some modifications, one or more of the companies above may work well for you. However, you should not make any decisions on coverage until you compare quotes from several insurers to see your options.

You may find insuring a modified car is more complicated than you realized it would be or that companies refuse to cover your modifications. Many insurance companies are wary of covering a vehicle that has been modified and may have voided the manufacturer’s specifications. 

But you should be able to find coverage with one or more companies in your area. Look for insurance for modified cars with several different companies. Let each company know what changes you’ve made to see if your vehicle would qualify for coverage. 

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What do insurance companies consider a modification?

Modifications are usually any changes to your vehicle that go against the original factory settings or specifications. Modifications often improve the look or functionality of a car. Here are some examples:

• Stereo systems
• Wi-Fi
• Furniture
• Carpeting
• Insulation
• Custom wheels
• Custom paint jobs
• Custom grilles
• Anti-roll bars
• Winches
• Changes to the exhaust
• Changes to the body
• Changes to the engine
• Changes to the suspension

Certain individuals may need specific modifications for accessibility, such as people in wheelchairs or with specific disabilities. Some common improvements in these situations include the following: 

• Amputee rings
• Steering cuffs
• Pedal extenders
• Left-foot accelerator 
• Hand controls
• Floor-mounted steering
• Wheelchair lifts and ramps
• Wheelchair-adjustable seat belts

According to NHTSA, people with disabilities can often make modifications or add adaptive equipment to their vehicles to meet their specific needs. Unfortunately, if you need modifications because of a physical disability, an insurance company will see that as the same risk as a modification for aesthetic or performance purposes.

Will modifications to my vehicle impact my car insurance rates?

The amount you pay for car insurance rates depends on several factors, including the following:

• Age
• Gender
• Marital status
• Car make and model
• Credit history
• Driving history
• ZIP code
• Coverage types

The table below shows the average rates for car insurance in each state based on the type of coverage. 

Average Annual Auto Insurance Rates by State and Coverage Type

Modifications to your vehicle are likely to increase your car insurance rates. Your insurance company will see the changes to your car as a risk since your manufacturer’s specifications have been altered. 

There’s no way to know how your rates will change after modifications without speaking with a representative from your insurance company. Still, the average cost is around $280 more per year for coverage.

Do I need modified car insurance?

If you want your vehicle and its modifications to be covered in the event of an accident, you will need to look for modified car insurers. The good news is that many car insurance companies will protect your vehicle, and you probably won’t need specialty coverage unless you’ve made extensive changes. 

However, if you make modifications to your vehicle and don’t let your insurance company know, the company could refuse to cover your car insurance claims. This could cause you to be held liable for all damages associated with an at-fault accident.

Noting any changes you’ve made with your insurance company can save you a lot of money in the long run. 

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Can I get cheap modified car insurance?

Some companies may give you a discount for modifications that increase the safety of your vehicle, like air bags, seat belts, and anti-theft devices. And you may be eligible for additional discounts on coverage, such as the following:

• Multi-policy
• Multi-vehicle
• Safe driver
• Student driver
• Paid-in-full
• Customer loyalty
• Defensive driving

If you believe any of the discounts above may apply, you can speak with a representative from your insurance company to see whether you’re eligible. Discounts help some policyholders save as much as 25% on their rates.

Read more: Cheap Auto Insurance Companies That Insure Cars With Blown Air Bags

Car Modifications and Insurance: The Bottom Line

Making modifications to your vehicle isn’t bad, but it could cause your rates to increase. Modifications include anything that changes your vehicle’s factory settings, and companies don’t care whether the modifications are for aesthetics, functionality, or accessibility.

If you have modified your car or plan, speak with your insurance provider to see how you can ensure you’re still covered in an accident. Ask whether you qualify for discounts that could help you save money on your monthly or annual rates.

Remember to shop online and compare quotes from multiple insurance providers. Comparing quotes is a great way to ensure you get the coverage you need at a price that works for you and your family.

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