How to get cheap car insurance for a modified car
If you want a car to show off then you may think that expensive car insurance is par for the course. However, if you are savvy with your approach to car insurance then you can slash your costs even if your vehicle is kitted out with everything from alloy wheels to dump valves and a Scorpion back box.
Why the specialists may have the answer
Believe it or not, there are actually several insurers that specialise in offering quotes to drivers of modified cars and will pull out all the stops to get you a competitive deal.
Whereas many conventional insurers hike premiums for drivers of modified cars because they see them as 'boy racers' or more likely to have their vehicle stolen, the specialists claim to actually acknowledge the fact that those who love their cars take extra care of them. They also work on the theory that thieves are more likely to take inauspicious cars rather than a vehicle that has modifications and can't be missed.
So, specialist insurers are well worth considering - some of the leading specialist providers in the UK include Flux Direct and Performance Direct. They may also offer additional cover options such as track day cover if you plan to take part in a rally or meet, and agreed valuations so you know from the outset how much your car is worth in case it were written off in an accident.
However, don't fall into the trap of assuming a specialist will always be the cheapest option. You should still compare specialist rates alongside those of conventional insurers using a comparison website to ensure you're picking up the most competitive deal available.
Tips to cut premiums on modified car insurance
There are many ways to cut car insurance premiums but some are particularly well-suited to drivers of modified cars:
- Limited mileage discounts: Several insurers offer premium reductions if you only drive a few thousand miles a year - ideal for modified cars that are kept aside for special purposes.
- Advanced driver qualifications: If you plan to drive a modified car consider an advanced training course such as the Pass Plus, IAM or Max driver qualification which could earn discounts in the region of 25 per cent.
- Owners' club discounts: If you're not already part of an owners' club or online forum, consider joining one as several insurers cut premiums for members believing that they are more likely to take care of their vehicle.
Don't forget the standard ways to save...
Though the suggestions listed above are ideal for modified car drivers, there are additional ways to cut car insurance costs that could apply to any motorist. These include:
- Increasing security: Consider fitting enhanced security devices such as immobilisers, alarms and trackers. Parking in a garage at night could also help you save.
- Paying annually: If you can afford to, pay insurance premiums upfront as this will cut out interest charges.
- Increasing your excess: Set the excess at a level you can comfortably afford - the higher you set it, the lower your premium.
- Vehicle use: Only pay for how you plan to use your car - make sure you're not covered for business use or commuting unless you need the car for those purposes.
- Named drivers: Don't add any more named drivers than necessary - the fewer people on the policy, the lower the premium should be.
