Drivers warned of five summer accessories that could invalidate car insurance
Millions of UK drivers could be unknowingly putting themselves in financial jeopardy due to a few summer accessories that might cause problems if their car insurance companies are not informed. As such, drivers are being cautioned that certain seasonal car modifications, like adding roof boxes, towbars and bicycle racks, could end up costing them.
The motoring team at Quotezone.co.uk has warned that failing to declare these and other summer additions, including window tints and sunroofs, could invalidate car insurance policies. The specialists are encouraging drivers to notify insurers of any changes they make to their vehicles as the UK experiences its fourth heatwave of the year.
If drivers neglect to keep their insurance current, they could be driving with an invalid insurance policy, and if they need to make a claim, an insurer could refuse to pay out. Vehicle accessories, such as tow bars, roof boxes, and bike racks, can all be classified as modifications, as can window tints and sunroofs.
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While adding a roof box could make travelling with families easier with the additional room for luggage, it can invalidate insurance if it's not updated on the policy. The same is true for bike carriers, which are a necessity for cycling enthusiasts.
This modification increases the likelihood of damage or an accident, especially if it isn't installed correctly, reports the Mirror. Other, more obvious alterations, such as window tints, sunroofs, and fitting a towbar, must also be declared. These could bump up the vehicle's value and the likelihood of an incident.
Greg Wilson, CEO and car insurance expert at Quotezone.co.uk explained: "As motorists head off for road trips, many make seasonal modifications, like adding a roof box or towbar, but failing to inform the insurer of these changes could invalidate the insurance and leave the driver unprotected.
"All the additions - towbars, roof boxes and racks, window tints, bicycle racks and adding a sunroof can all be seen as increasing the risk of an accident or the likelihood of damage, which is why it's so important to notify the insurer. A recent Quotezone survey showed 65% of drivers didn't realise a sunroof could be seen as a modification. Declaring summer modifications helps ensure your cover remains valid if anything goes wrong and you need to claim.
"There's a full list of modifications that insurers need to be aware of. Our car insurance quote form details them all with an explanation on modifications - it's so important for drivers to check the list thoroughly, as some items are quite unusual and many drivers may assume they are covered as standard."
Checklist of summer modifications which could invalidate your insurance:
Tow bars
Fitting a tow bar to your car could potentially impact your insurance and should be declared to your insurer. Towing another item, whether it's a caravan, trailer, or something else, heightens the risk of an accident. It's crucial to inform your insurer before installing the tow bar and ensure your policy covers the item you're towing.
Window tints
Window tints won't automatically invalidate your insurance if they're legal and your provider has been notified. UK law limits window tints on the front windscreen and front side windows.
A minimum of 75% of light must pass through the front windscreen and at least 70% through the front side windows. There are no limitations on tinting the rear windows. Premiums are unlikely to increase with this modification, but you must declare it to your insurer, or you could invalidate your insurance policy.
Sunroofs
Adding a sunroof to a car that doesn't already have one is considered a car modification, even though it can be a cooling feature during hot weather. It can change the car's value, repair costs, and even its structural integrity. Sunroofs added after purchase can also be prone to leaks.
Roof racks and boxes
Fitting a roof rack or roof box provides extra storage space for your journey. However, it's considered a modification, and not declaring it could invalidate your cover if you need to make a claim. Roof racks aren't standard equipment and can affect the vehicle's weight distribution and potentially its handling. Poorly secured or overloaded roof racks can also pose a risk.
Bike carrier
If you're attaching a bike carrier for summer trips, inform your insurer. These carriers are categorised as modifications and could heighten the risk of accidents or damage to your vehicle, particularly if they're not correctly installed.