Car Modification

Taking a fairly nondescript, factory car and modifying it to your own unique specification is incredibly rewarding. Just ask any of the thousands of modifying enthusiasts in the UK. From adding eye-popping visual modifications, tweaking the workings of the car to maximise its performance or upgrading the sound system to deliver earth-shaking bass, there are tons of options available.

There are implications for your car insurance if you choose to modify, but there are plenty of ways of keeping costs down.

Why are premiums higher?

Insurance companies charge higher premiums to modified car drivers for a number of reasons. Firstly, the modifications - particularly if there's a lot of high-end audio equipment on board - make them prime targets for theft. Additionally, the increased power output of some modified cars make them riskier to insure. Younger drivers, who are often chomping at the bit to get into modifying after passing their tests, are particularly difficult to insure due to the relatively high number of accidents they are involved in, too. For example, according to the Driving Standards Agency in 2008 only one in eight drivers were under the age of 25, however one in three who died on our roads was from this age category.

It's crucial to let your insurer know EVERY modification that you've made, however trivial it may seem. If you don't, it could invalidate your policy in the event that you need to make a claim: leaving you in a pretty compromising situation.

How do I keep my modified car insurance premium down?

Keep it safe
If you're planning on modifying, set yourself up for a discount on your insurance by driving safely, and within the speed limit. If you're free of driving convictions and accidents, then insurance companies will look far more favourably on you!

Go back to school
If you're planning on upping the performance of your car, then it's a good idea to enroll on an advanced driving course such as the IAM or Pass Plus (if you are driving new). This way, you can prove to insurers that you're capable of driving a car with higher power outputs.

Lock it up
If you've got access to a garage, make sure that you lock your modified car in it overnight. It means that it's far less likely to be stolen or vandalised.

Secure yourself
There's a wide range of car security systems available, and investing in some anti-theft devices (such as an alarm, immobiliser or tracker) will make you a much more attractive case for insurance companies.

Choose wisely
It's tempting to really go to town when it comes to car modification. However, there are some modifications that insurers really aren't keen on. One in particular is the addition of nitrous oxide burning system to a car. Only take on modifications that you feel you can't live without!

Pay a higher voluntary excess
If you opt to pay a higher contribution, your premium will be cheaper. However, make sure you settle on a figure which you can comfortably afford should you have to call on your policy.

Pay annually
If you can, pay for your insurance in a one-off payment. Paying in monthly instalments will usually keep costs to a minimum.

Limit your mileage
If it's practical, agree to a fixed mileage policy. This will decrease your chances of being involved in an accident.

Shop around
Using a comparison website can allow you to browse modified car insurance quotes from loads of companies and see where the better deals are very quickly. Be sure to enter all the modifications in the quote form to ensure you get an accurate quote, then you can compare the features of each policy as well as the price so you're sure you're getting a package which is suited to your needs.