Car modifications can increase insurance by 139%

Modifications to cars can increase insurance premiums by as much as 139 per cent, according to new research.

Findings from Confused.com revealed that for a 20 year-old male driving a VW Golf GTI 1.5 litre with no claims or convictions, a quote could differ by up to £1026.42 – or 182 per cent – depending on whether the vehicle was modified or not.

Among the most common modifications are spoilers, alloy wheels, tinted windows, lower suspension and strip under-lighting.

Will Thomas, head of car insurance at Confused.com, said that as modifications become more popular with young drivers, it is important that they are made aware of the ensuing cost of car insurance.

“Adding spoilers and tinted windows, for example, can not only dramatically increase car insurance premiums, but they can render car insurance void in some instances, especially when the driver fails to inform the insurer of any changes,” he continued.

Meanwhile, research from swiftcover.com shows that 96 per cent of British motorists leave gadgets on display in their vehicles, making their cars targets for thieves.

Tags: Financial institutions, Admiral Group, quote, targets, car insurance premiums, Service industries, vehicle