How many people declare mods to their insurance company?

Just curious how many people declare modifications to their car to the insurance company they are with.

Apparently it is a big deal. Any thoughts?

No to performance mods, unless it was a Turbo/SC

But I did declare my Vossen Wheels to ensure they were covered.

I get an aftermarket wheels rider. I choose not to cover my suspension parts since if I (God forbid) total the Mustang (and insurance pays out), I'll probably get a different car and typically you can take off most of the parts at the yard (I keep my stock parts).

You should declare things that would actually add value; wheels, paint, etc.

Performance mods are up to the individual, but I personally wouldn't do it. I can't imagine an insurance agent would like to hear that you bolted on a supercharger to an already high-risk car.

I just went through this on my 16 GT. Things like floor mats, splash guards, etc that they consider will add value to the car, they will cover without you declaring them before the loss, but other small things like the Steeda jacking rails, hood struts, wheel spacers, etc were considered "personal preference" items and they refused to pay me anything. But they did cover a CAI on a prior car. If I did wheels or other more expensive mod, I would certainly consult with my agent about it.

I have USA and asked them about thi's coverage. They cover up to $5000 fair market value on modifications to the car as part of their premium. I think the coverage is dependent on the state though.

trbstang said:

If I did wheels or other more expensive mod, I would certainly consult with my agent about it.

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Unless your wheels are more costly than the OE wheels that came on the car if you had to buy them across the parts counter, why bother?

Tires, shocks, struts, aftermarket track pads, and probably a few other things are all wear items. Smaller expenses such as hood struts, lowering springs and aftermarket sta-bars, and most other suspension components aren't expensive enough to justify covering them.


Norm

I work for an insurance company and I don't. If I had a S/C or Turbo I definitely would though. If you don't disclose that, best case scenario you get shafted and don't get the value of the extra $5k-$10k. Worst case scenario they deny your claim and then cancel you for misrep. After that you'll have a black mark against you and say goodbye to reasonable premiums with any carrier for the next 3-5 years.

Phill The Greek said:

I have USA and asked them about thi's coverage. They cover up to $5000 fair market value on modifications to the car as part of their premium. I think the coverage is dependent on the state though.

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Same - I was told there was a limit, but didn't recall how much.

I added $5k worth of coverage for around an extra $20/mo

I don’t bother. $1000 deductibles, high liability limits and low premiums are my preference.