Common summer car modifications could invalidate your car insurance

Motorists are being warned that common summer modifications, such as adding roof boxes, towbars and bicycle racks, could end up costing them.

According to the motoring experts at Quotezone.co.uk, failing to declare these, as well as other summer modifications including window tints and sunroofs could void car insurance policies.

Here in Ireland, we decided to look at the same five modifications and get an official insurance perspective on each of them.

Shane Hennelly, head of insurance at Hastings Insurance looked at these for us. Here is what he said with regards to modifications, which could invalidate your insurance:

1. Roof Boxes / Roof Racks
Yes, these are generally treated as modifications. Most insurers do not require notification if the roof box or rack is temporary and used infrequently, but if it is fitted permanently, or used often, it should be disclosed. It can affect the vehicle’s centre of gravity and potentially its handling, which may influence risk.

2. Bike Racks / Bike Carriers
Same principle applies — rear-mounted bike racks in particular should be declared, as they may obstruct lights or number plates and are sometimes seen as increasing the risk of damage (e.g. in rear-end collisions or from loose-fitting mounts). Towbar-mounted versions may require prior disclosure if a towbar wasn’t already listed on the policy.

3. Towbars
Yes, towbars are considered modifications and should absolutely be disclosed when fitted. Even if not towing anything immediately, their presence is relevant to the vehicle’s structure and intended use. Some insurers may restrict what can be towed under standard cover.

4. Window Tints
Irish law, like UK law, restricts tinting on front windows and windscreens, but allows it on rear windows. If aftermarket tints are added, they should be declared, particularly to demonstrate they are within legal limits. Excessively tinted windows could void cover or result in penalties from the Gardaí.

5. Sunroofs
If factory-fitted, no issue. But if an aftermarket sunroof is installed, this should be declared. It can affect the structural integrity of the car, increase the risk of leaks, and might alter the value. Infrequently done these days, but still relevant if fitted post-purchase.

Hennelly also said: “In general, insurers in Ireland expect to be notified of any permanent or structural modifications. Anything that alters the appearance, performance, handling, or risk profile of the vehicle should be disclosed. Failure to do so could jeopardise cover in the event of a claim – especially if the modification contributed to the incident.”

Modifications may be seen as increasing the risk of accidents or damage to your vehicle, especially if they’re not properly installed.

Also, the car-owners actions, for example in relation to securing or over-loadeing roof racks can also be unsafe and increase the risk of an accident.

It is commonly agreed in the insurance industry that it is extremely rare for genuine third party claims due to reasonable modifications such as those mentioned above to be denied by insurers, but not so for comprehensive claims for damage to a motorists own car due to a modification that wasn’t notified to the insurer by the policy holder.

As in the UK, Irish motorists are urged to inform insurers of any changes they make to their cars. This advice is timely as some of the popular modifications are more commonly seen as the weather warms up during the summer holiday season.