LPG conversion and insurance

[monkey43]

Hi guys - I need some advice.

Converted my car to LPG last summer and can't remember if I notified the insurance company?!?. Had a prang on black ice 2 weeks ago, and insurance co are sending their engineer out to validate estimate. Damage exclusively to bumpers and lights (no engine damage).

Assuming I didn't notify them, where do I stand re vehicle modifications invalidating my claim? The LPG conversion has not resulted in more performance, only cheaper running costs. In my opinion the LPG conversion has not lead to a higher risk driver, but is that how they will see it? And the accident was due to black ice NOT engine performance.

Anyone got any thoughts?

[Mikey G]

Any vehicle modification should be notified to the insurers even a tow bar!
Having a ruddy huge gas tank in the boot to power it is no different.
You may get away with it if the damage is only minor, but if you were involved in a fatal then things would be slightly different...

[sploosh]

Can't help with the insurance query - can't see it making a difference though as it's not a peformance mod. Made no difference to my premium when I told them.

(but I wouldn't point it out to the engineer)

Have you told the DVLA? Pretty certain you'll save on your road tax as long as you have the certificate to prove it was fitted.

[DippedHeadlights]

sploosh said:

Have you told the DVLA? Pretty certain you'll save on your road tax as long as you have the certificate to prove it was fitted.

Only if it's post 2001 and then it's only £15 - but still worth having, says "alternative fuel vehicle" on tax disc.

Wouldn't have thought the insurance would be a problem - LPG has never increased premium when I've asked for quotes therefore how can it have increased the risk.

DH

[entwisi]

A lot of insurers now ask for a copy of teh certificate to show its been done by someone who has a clue.

[BigLepton]

I'd say you're going to get your claim rejected. I had a Disco V8 converted to LPG and insurers rightly class it as a major modification and usually need to see the safety cert saying it has been fitted safely.

Insurers will reject claims for slightly different size tyres, let alone fitting a huge drum filled with lpg and engine intake mods. I'd start saving if I were you, sorry.

[rayny]

I know this is not very helpful but, depending on underwriting criteria, the three four scenarios are:-
1) Underwriter will not cover LPG conversions and may void the policy.
2) Underwriter will cover LPG conversion but may ask for an increased premium before proceeding with the claim.
3) Underwriter will cover LPG conversion at your current premium and just proceed with the claim.
4) Repairer quotes for the repairs and and is given the go-ahead for the repairs because nobody thinks to look at the fuel system and therefore does not mention it to the insurance claims department.

[sploosh]

Let us know how you get on.

My mate wrote off his LPG car a few weeks ago... deer tree deer tree deer tree tree .... dear tree!

No problems with the claim, but he had told them, and sent in the cert - no extra premium.

[monkey43]

Thanks guys - mixed bag of replies.

Conversion was done by Autogas registered dealer (one of only 2 in South Wales) and I have a certificate. Inclined to see what turns up -notifying insurance company post crash seems a bit pointless With repair costs c£6500 can't even contemplate a rejected claim......