More than 1.5 million motorists in the UK could be driving with potentially invalid insurance because they have not declared vehicle modifications, according to research from Tempcover. Many drivers may not realise that everyday changes, including technology upgrades and cosmetic alterations, can be considered modifications by insurers.
A survey of 2,000 UK drivers found that one in four vehicles has at least one non-factory modification. The research highlights confusion among motorists about what needs to be reported, with some drivers potentially facing reduced insurance claim payouts if changes to their vehicles have not been disclosed.
Common Modifications Drivers May Fail to Declare
The research from Tempcover found that aftermarket technology is among the modifications many motorists do not recognise as something that must be declared. According to the company, 91% of drivers were unaware that unofficial Apple CarPlay, Android Auto or touchscreen retrofits may need to be disclosed to insurers.
Other vehicle changes also caused confusion. The survey found that 88% of drivers did not know upgraded sound systems or speaker installations should be reported, while 87% were unaware that retrofitted parking sensors could affect their insurance information.
The list of the most commonly undeclared modifications also included paint protection film, vinyl wraps, body stickers and decals, which 86% of drivers did not realise may require disclosure. The same percentage of motorists were unaware that installed towbars or roof racks could need to be reported.
Further examples included brighter aftermarket bulbs, aftermarket alarms, immobilisers or GPS trackers, as well as non-factory alloy wheels, custom paint, tinted windows and engine changes such as ECU remapping or chip tuning.
Claire Wills-McKissick, temporary car insurance expert at Tempcover, said motorists may not always consider plug-and-play technology or modern upgrades as changes that insurers need to know about. She said insurers assess policies based on risk and that vehicle alterations can affect factors such as value and theft risk.
Insurance and Used Car Risks Linked to Modifications
Failing to disclose vehicle changes can have consequences if a claim is made. According to Tempcover, insurance fraud can lead to cancelled policies, fines and penalty points depending on the circumstances. The company advised motorists to check their vehicle handbook, review policy terms and contact their insurer when unsure whether a modification needs to be declared.
Some risks can also appear when buying a second-hand vehicle. A car may appear standard while containing modifications that affect its performance, reliability or insurance status.
Michael Golson, motoring expert at Cazoo, said buyers should ask direct questions about modifications such as remapping, gearbox software and whether a vehicle has previously been altered and returned to its original condition. He added that reversing some changes can be expensive, with replacement emissions equipment such as a diesel particulate filter potentially costing between £1,000 and £3,500.
Separate guidance from Halfords also identifies several modifications that can be illegal in the UK. These include certain tinted windows, neon lights, loud exhausts and number plates that do not meet DVLA requirements for size, spacing and reflectiveness. The retailer also noted that poorly secured spoilers can create problems for drivers.
The research shows that modifications do not only concern major performance changes. Smaller upgrades and cosmetic adjustments can also affect insurance requirements, making it necessary for motorists to check their policies before making alterations to their vehicles.
