Modifications to cars can range from adding factory extras right through to high performance or cosmetic changes.

Regardless of the modification, Dawes Motor Insurance Chief Valuer Mark Petersen says anyone driving a modified car should consider whether they need specialised motor insurance.

Mark says that people who modify their vehicles tend to really love their vehicle and are often car enthusiasts, just like the underwriters at Dawes.

"Being insured with a specialist motor insurer such as Allianz can give your clients peace of mind that should something happen due to an insured event, the cover provided with Dawes Motor Insurance Policy can assist with having their car back to looking its best," he says.

Common modifications

Mark says some of the most common modifications Dawes sees include alloy wheels or exhaust changes.

"These are typically quite low-cost ways of personalising a vehicle for better performance, to enhance the driving experience, and to upgrade a vehicle's aesthetics."

Other additions can include body kits, suspension upgrades, sports seats or steering wheels, and performance brakes. Dawes can arrange cover for the vast majority of vehicles that have been modified.

The benefit of specialist insurance

Mark says standard motor insurance policies may not cover the cost of repairs or replacement for modifications.
He adds that modifications can also increase the value of a vehicle, so without consulting an expert, it's possible a modified vehicle could be underinsured.

While some modifications may result in cover being declined by standard motor insurers, Dawes underwriters understand vehicle specifications and will work with brokers to arrange cover for their clients where possible.

Mark adds that some items many people wouldn't consider are classed as modifications, such as dealer upgrades like floor mats and tinted windows may need to be specified on an insurance policy to ensure they're covered.

What brokers need to do

Make sure to ask your clients whether they have made any changes to their vehicle or what factory extras they selected, so you can provide Dawes with a full list of these changes, extras or upgrades, Mark says.

"The underwriters at Dawes love talking about cars – to us there's no such thing as too much detail," he says.

First class insurance for first class vehicles

With Dawes, your client's prestige, exotic and classic cars and motorcycles are always in expert hands. 

If you have questions, please get in touch with the team here or call us on 1300 188 299 to learn more about our first-class insurance for first-class vehicles..

Dawes Underwriting Australia Pty Ltd t/as Dawes Motor Insurance (ABN 18 050 289 506, AR No. 342982) (‘Dawes’) is an Authorised Representative of SGUAS Pty Limited (ABN 15 096 726 895, AFSL 234437) (‘SGUAS’) and acts for the insurer, Allianz Australia Insurance Limited (ABN 15 000 122 850, AFSL 234708) (‘Allianz’). Consider the relevant Product Disclosure Statement and Target Market Determination available by contacting Dawes on 1300 188 288 or visiting www.dawes.com.au, before deciding if it is right for you.