Are Vehicle Modifications Covered by Auto Insurance?
You’ve spent countless hours in the garage working on your vehicle. Maybe you’ve added rims, a lift kit, spoilers, or a new sound system. You’ve turned it into a one-of-a-kind custom build. But here’s the question: is your ride fully protected by insurance?
What counts as a modification?
Whether you refer to them as mods, customizations, upgrades, or aftermarket parts, they all mean the same thing in the eyes of your insurance company: a change made to your vehicle after it left the factory.
Unlike modifications, factory-installed custom features, such as premium upholstery or upgraded audio equipment, may be included in your standard coverage because they’re part of the vehicle’s original value.
Common aftermarket modifications:
Performance: turbo kits, superchargers, exhaust upgrades, and more
Suspension: lift or lowering kits, struts, sway bars, performance shocks, and more
Exterior/Visual: vinyl wraps, spoilers, exterior lighting, decals, and more
Interior/Electronic: custom upholstery, speakers or subwoofers, interior lighting, and more
These are just some of the most common aftermarket upgrades among car and truck enthusiasts. There are many customizations that can change how your vehicle looks, drives, or performs.
How modifications affect your insurance coverage
Most auto policies cover your car as it came from the factory. When you make modifications, you are changing its value and the risks associated with it. Therefore, modifications often affect your auto insurance premiums. Without additional coverage, some upgrades may go unprotected.
Don’t leave your upgrades unprotected
Declaring your vehicle’s upgrades is essential to protecting your investment. Failing to report alterations could result in denied claims if your car is damaged or stolen. By declaring your upgrades, you ensure your coverage reflects your build, your premiums are accurate, and you are protected in case of unexpected losses.
Alfa® offers coverage for custom vehicles
Standard or outdated coverage may not fully protect all the upgrades you’ve invested in. Fortunately, Alfa Insurance allows you to work directly with an agent to create a policy tailored to your specific build. You can declare your upgrades, set coverage limits, and adjust premiums to match your vehicle’s true value. That way, your vehicle receives comprehensive protection, and you can drive with confidence knowing it’s fully covered.
To secure coverage or update an existing policy, contact your local Alfa Insurance agent today.
All coverages are subject to deductibles and policy limits. This is not an insurance policy. It is intended only to provide a general description of Alfa Insurance® and/or its product lines and services. An actual policy contains the specific details of the deductibles, coverages, conditions and exclusions. Your Alfa® agent can explain the policy and benefits and answer any questions you may have before you buy.