Dealer fit upgrade = modified?

[-crookedtail-]

Hey all, I've recently picked up a new to me car, which is a Cupra Formentor with the ABT pack. If you don't know, this was a Cupra supplied/Manufacturer backed pack which was added by dealers in the UK.

Essentially the pack includes;
An ECU piggy back box (up to 370ps)
Different wheels
Lowered suspension
Different exhaust
Different seats

Before collection I obviously insured the car, via the online comparisons, paid and that was that.

This is a TLDR of what happened next

I noticed the wording (or lack thereof re the kit)
I contacted the insurer before driving/collecting the car. (both live chat and phone call!)
I explained exactly what it was.
I offered the dealer's written confirmation/details of the kit
They told me that no separate declaration was required, "they get it all from the DVLA!"
My policy was then issued showing "Modifications: None.

This is a relatively rare kit, I think less than 200 of them came to our shores. I don't expect the first line folks to be privy to all vehicles but am I right to be a bit concerned. Since these dealer kits won't always show up on the DVLA. Should I ask them to confirm from their underwriting teams that this kit has been noted and added to my policy?

I don't want to be caught short (if the worst happens!)

I'm hoping this can all be cleared up quickly, I've given them full disclosure, but its my first 'modded' car so I don't know what I don't know. However, if they say they can't insure it anymore, do they cancel immediately and I get screwed with that flag or do they give me an opportunity to cancel myself and I find insurance via a specialist broker asap

Am I panicking over nothing?

Please Help

[LeoSayer]

What does your insurer's T&C say about what they class as a modification?

[Ed Boon II]

I’d want to see that mod declared and in black and white, don’t forget that guy on here who had a tow bar fitted and didn’t declare it.

[-crookedtail-]

LeoSayer said:

What does your insurer's T&C say about what they class as a modification?

It essentially says that "Anything that changes the makers standard spec, or alters its performance, including cosmetic changes or no standard parts"

Which is why I called them to confirm, I just don't want to take the 'It'll be fine" over the phone message from them.

Ed Boon II said:

I d want to see that mod declared and in black and white, don t forget that guy on here who had a tow bar fitted and didn t declare it.

Agreed.

I'll call them tomorrow and try to somehow get through to underwriting to get a clear answer and in black and white. Thanks, Chaps

[Dogwatch]

I was in a similar position when I had rear sensors fitted to my Focus. It was a Ford kit and actually an option on higher spec Foci (? ).
I declared it to the insurers and they weren’t concerned as it was a Ford option.


On the other hand I had an Alpine 5 disc CD player fitted to a previous Focus and only remembered it a week after renewal. Broker reported that he had to move the cover to another company as the one I was with would not accept anything other than factory spec (think I was well rid of them, sounds like an outfit which doesn’t pay claims until sued).

[48k]

In my experience insurers are reasonably tolerant of factory and dealer fit options until there is a bhp upgrade. Id be getting it acknowledged in black and white.

[Sheepshanks]

Isn't it sold as a specific model in its own right?

If you do talk to the insurer and they say it's OK then keep a note of the name of the person and the date and time.

[vikingaero]

Some Insurers can be tolerant of a few mods. I'd argue the list quoted about goes way beyond that.

Normally most insurers ask something along the lines of: "Has the vehicle been modified from the manufacturers standard vehicle specification?"

Most are reasonable if you add floor mats, mudflaps etc etc.

Of course some like a Naval Insurer and a 1066 Battle Insurer are less tolerant and charge you an additional premium to cover the parts (so as not to void your insurance), but not actual replace the parts in the event of a loss (Standard Parts Replacement clauses). Oh and I've argue that some underwriters are less tolerant especially if they are based in Gibraltar.

[alscar]

All 5 items would individually tick the modified box albeit as a dealer supplied pack arguably nothing fitted that isn't factory or dealer supplied.
To avoid worrying I would put your point to the Insurer ( not the comparison engine ) in an email and ask for confirmation that all is noted and hence the paperwork is or has been issued correctly as has the premium.
I wouldn't be replying on web chat even if you have saved it.
I'm sure all is ok but you don't want to find out there is an issue after any incident.