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Car modification is a common and popular hobby among motorheads and car enthusiasts. However, did you know that any modifications you make to a car after you buy it could increase the amount you have to pay for car insurance in UAE? Any modification made to a vehicle on the owner's orders is referred to as a modified car. Performance and cosmetic alterations are the two main types of car modifications.

• Cosmetic 

These are changes to your car's look and style. Installing a sunroof and/or tinted windows, painting the car's exterior a different colour, and replacing the stock wheels with personalized ones are a few examples of cosmetic changes.

• Performance 

Performance modifications have an impact on the vehicle's capability and performance. Performance enhancements include things like replacing the engine, maximizing horsepower, upgrading the turbo, and making changes to the suspension and brakes.

Do I need to disclose modifications to my insurer?

Without a doubt, yes. Make sure your car insurance UAE company is informed of any modifications you have made or plan to make. Be honest about any changes your car may have from the outset if you are buying a new comprehensive car insurance policy. Always get your insurance policy approved before making any modifications to your car, if you currently have one or plan to do so. Any claims you make in the event that your car is stolen or damaged could be void if you modify it without informing your car insurance Dubai and the UAE company.

Car insurance for modified vehicles may or may not be provided by your insurer. The company's third-party or comprehensive car insurance plans may only agree to cover specific pre-listed modifications, depending on the insurer. Other changes might not be covered by your standard policy, so you could need to buy additional insurance.

What impact do changes have on my car insurance?

Any modifications you make to your car may affect your car insurance coverage and, more specifically, the amount you pay for coverage. The modifications will increase the cost of your insurance. You might need to get additional car insurance for your customized car if your insurance company won't cover any modifications you've made or won't cover the particular modifications you've made. However, there are some situations (like adding a car alarm) where making changes can actually make it safer, which could result in lower monthly payments. Upgrades to your car that are purely functional, such as roof racks and bicycles, could not even affect your policy. It's advisable to talk to your insurer about any changes you may be considering before making them in order to determine how they might impact your rates.

Why does modified car insurance cost more?

Since customized cars are more likely to be claimed than unmodified cars, coverage for modified cars is more expensive than ordinary car insurance. Vehicle modifications can place a car at:

• Increased chance of accidents

The likelihood of a car being involved in a collision or high-speed accident will naturally increase with any engine or performance enhancements that boost the vehicle's speed.

• Increased chance of theft

Upgrades to a car's appearance, like a new mag or speakers, can make it more likely that it will be stolen or broken into.

What rules does the UAE have regarding modified cars?

When it comes to cars that have been modified, the majority of insurance companies in the UAE will only cover modifications made by authorized dealers or showrooms, not by independent mechanics or workshops.

Modified car owners in the nation are strictly required by law to have a "certificate of modifications" from the Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology (ESMA). The owner of the modified car gets this certificate once it has successfully completed a comprehensive safety and roadworthiness inspection.

Find the best and cheapest car insurance in Dubai and the UAE for your customized vehicle with policyhouse.com. We provide free registration assistance, super simple claims, quick and easy processing, and dedicated customer support. Our team of insurance industry experts is always ready to help you with valuable information. Please feel free to contact us!