Modifying your car can lead to increased insurance premiums and even legal issues in Illinois. Changes such as adding a turbocharger, performance upgrades, or custom body kits can signal higher risks to insurers, which may cause your premiums to rise.
Certain flashy modifications, like neon underbody lights, are illegal in Illinois and could result in fines. Always inform your insurance provider about any modifications to avoid denied claims.
For a personalized quote on insuring your modified car in Illinois, call Insure on the Spot at 773-202-5060 today.
What Happens to Insurance Costs When You Modify Your Car?
When you modify your vehicle from its factory specifications, it changes its risk profile. Many modifications increase your insurance premium because they either raise the vehicle’s value or increase the risk associated with driving it.
- Higher Car Value: Custom parts like expensive rims, engines, or paint increase the car’s value. This means that in case of a total loss, the insurer must pay more to replace the vehicle. As a result, premiums increase.
- Increased Risk of Accidents: Performance modifications, like engine tuning or suspension changes, can make a car harder to control or less safe. Since these cars are perceived as more likely to be involved in accidents, insurers charge higher premiums.
- Attraction to Thieves: If your car is equipped with high-end stereo systems or custom wheels, it may be a more attractive target for theft. Insurers consider this when determining your premium.
- Non-Standard Parts: Modified cars often require hard-to-find parts for repairs, and these parts are often more expensive to replace. Insurance companies factor this into your premium as well.
Some modifications, like safety upgrades or anti-theft devices, may lower premiums, so it’s always a good idea to check with your insurer about any potential discounts.
What Car Modifications Increase Insurance Premiums the Most?
The more a modification enhances performance or deviates from stock safety standards, the more it can increase your insurance premium. Here are some common modifications and their effects:
- Engine and Performance Upgrades: Turbochargers, superchargers, and other performance modifications significantly raise premiums. These cars are considered high-risk due to faster speeds and the potential for accidents.
- Suspension and Body Mods: Altering the suspension (e.g., lifting a truck or lowering a car) or adding spoilers can impact the car’s safety and handling. Such changes may lead to higher insurance rates due to the increased risk of accidents.
- Custom Paint and Aesthetic Changes: Custom paint jobs or racing stripes might increase your car’s value and insurance premiums, as these modifications make repairs costlier. Additionally, neon underglow lights, which are illegal in Illinois, could lead to fines and increased premiums.
- Wheels, Tires, and Brakes: Performance wheels or tires may increase the risk of theft, and upgraded brakes might be seen as a performance enhancement, both of which could affect your insurance rates.
Always disclose any modifications to your insurer to ensure your coverage is adequate.
Do You Need Special Insurance Coverage for Modified Cars?
If you’ve made significant modifications to your vehicle, you may need special coverage to ensure all parts are properly protected. Standard auto insurance policies typically cover aftermarket parts only up to a limited dollar amount, often around $1,000. To ensure your modifications are adequately covered, consider the following:
- Declare All Aftermarket Parts: Be transparent with your insurer about all modifications. This ensures that your policy covers the full value of your custom parts.
- Purchase Custom Parts & Equipment Endorsement: This add-on extends coverage to aftermarket parts beyond the typical limits of your standard policy.
- Agreed Value or Stated Amount Policy: If your car is extensively modified, an agreed value policy ensures you get paid for the full value of the car, including its modifications, in the event of a total loss.
- Specialty Insurers: Some insurers specialize in modified or classic cars. These insurers are more likely to offer customized coverage tailored to your needs.
While these policies may cost more, they provide peace of mind knowing your modifications are properly covered.
What If You Don’t Tell Your Insurer About Car Modifications?
Failing to disclose modifications to your insurance company can result in serious consequences:
- Claims Could Be Denied: If you don’t disclose modifications and file a claim, your insurer may deny coverage for the modifications, leaving you to cover the repair costs out of pocket.
- Policy Cancellation: If an insurer discovers that you failed to disclose major modifications, they may cancel your policy, which could leave you uninsured.
- Uninsured Loss of Your Investment: If your modified car is stolen or totaled and you haven’t informed your insurer about the modifications, you’ll only be reimbursed for the stock version of the car, losing all the money you invested in custom parts.
- Legal and Liability Risks: Driving with illegal modifications could increase your liability in an accident. In Illinois, having modifications that don’t meet the state’s regulations can result in fines or additional legal problems.
Always inform your insurance company about modifications, even if they seem minor, to ensure you’re fully protected.
What Car Modifications Are Legal in Illinois?
Illinois has specific rules and regulations governing car modifications. Below are some key points to consider:
- Lighting: Neon underglow lights, LED light bars for on-road use, and flashing red or blue lights are prohibited on public streets in Illinois.
- Window Tint: Window tinting is allowed, but there are restrictions on the darkness of the tint, especially for the front windshield.
- Exhaust and Noise: Modifications that produce excessive noise, such as loud exhaust systems, are illegal in Illinois. Removing or disabling emission control devices, like catalytic converters, is also prohibited.
- Vehicle Height and Frame: Illinois has limits on how much you can lift or lower your vehicle. Make sure any suspension modifications comply with Illinois law.
- Tires and Fenders: Tires that extend beyond your fenders or that are not in compliance with Illinois laws can result in fines and potential insurance complications.
To ensure your modifications comply with Illinois laws, consult the Illinois Vehicle Code and the Illinois Secretary of State for guidance.
How Can You Find Affordable Insurance for a Modified Car in Illinois?
Finding affordable insurance for a modified car in Illinois is possible with the right strategy:
- Shop Around with Specialized Insurers: Not all insurers are comfortable with modified cars, but some specialize in insuring them. Shop around for quotes from these companies to find the best deal.
- Bundle and Use Discounts: Bundle your auto policy with other insurance types (e.g., home or renters insurance) to save money. Additionally, adding safety features like anti-theft devices can earn you discounts.
- Consider Usage and Mileage: If your modified car is a show car or is driven infrequently, you may qualify for lower rates based on limited use.
- Maintain a Clean Driving Record: A clean driving record helps reduce premiums, especially if your car is already considered high-risk due to modifications.
- Work with an Agent: An experienced agent can guide you through the insurance process, ensuring your modifications are properly covered at the best possible rate.
For help with insuring your modified car in Illinois, call Insure on the Spot at 773-202-5060.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Modified Car Insurance in Illinois
Q: Do car modifications increase insurance premiums?
A: Often, yes. Modifications generally increase your car’s value or risk, which leads to higher premiums. Performance mods, such as engine tuning, can cause significant premium increases. However, safety-related modifications, like alarm systems, might earn you a discount. Always check with your insurer.
Q: What types of insurance coverage do I need for a modified car?
A: You should consider adding a custom parts endorsement to your policy, especially if your modifications exceed $1,000 in value. For extensively modified cars, an agreed value policy might be the best option to ensure all modifications are fully covered.
Q: Should I inform my insurance company about modifications?
A: Absolutely. Not informing your insurer about modifications could lead to denied claims or even policy cancellation. It’s better to disclose all modifications upfront to ensure your coverage is accurate.
Q: Are some car modifications illegal in Illinois?
A: Yes, modifications such as neon underglow lights, certain window tints, and excessive exhaust noise are illegal in Illinois. Ensure your modifications comply with Illinois law to avoid fines and insurance complications.
Q: Can modifying a car void my insurance policy?
A: Modifying your car does not automatically void your insurance. However, failing to disclose modifications can lead to policy cancellation or denied claims. Always inform your insurer about any changes to your vehicle.
Q: How can I get affordable insurance for my modified car?
A: Shop around with insurers that specialize in modified vehicles. Take advantage of discounts for safety features, bundle policies, and maintain a clean driving record. Consult with an agent to find the best coverage for your modified car.
Get a Quote Today!
If you have a modified car in Illinois and need reliable insurance coverage, Insure on the Spot is here to help. Call 773-202-5060 to speak with an experienced agent or get a free quote online. We’ll guide you through the best options for your custom ride.