Wrapping your car is an increasingly popular way to personalise it. With a wide range of colours, finishes, and designs, it offers drivers a way to make their car stand out without the permanence of a respray. However, many drivers ask: does wrapping a car affect insurance?
The short answer is yes, but the details depend on your insurer.
In this guide, we will explore everything you need to know about car wrapping and insurance, including why Brentacre’s modified car insurance policy is uniquely beneficial.
What Is Car Wrapping?
Car wrapping involves covering a vehicle’s exterior with a thin, durable vinyl layer.
This layer can completely change the appearance of a car or highlight specific areas with decorative patterns or accents. Unlike a respray, wrapping is non-permanent and removable, which makes it a versatile option for both personal and commercial vehicles.
Primary Benefits of Car Wrapping:
- Cosmetic Customisation:
- Drivers can choose custom colours, patterns, or finishes such as matte, gloss, satin, or even chrome.
- It’s a way to express personality or align a car with branding for business purposes.
- Paint Protection:
- The vinyl acts as a protective layer, shielding the car’s original paintwork from scratches, chips, and UV damage.
- This protection helps maintain the car’s resale value.
Although wrapping has these benefits, it is classified as a modification, which means it can impact your insurance premium depending on your provider.
Does Wrapping A Car Increase Insurance Costs?
In most cases, wrapping a car does affect insurance premiums because many insurers classify it as a modification, and modifications often lead to higher premiums. Here’s why:
Why Wrapping Affects Insurance Costs
- Increased Value:
- A high-quality wrap may raise the car’s resale value, which makes it more expensive to repair or replace.
- Higher Theft Risk:
- Unique and eye-catching wraps can attract unwanted attention, making the car a target for theft.
- Altered Specifications:
- Insurance providers may perceive wraps as changes to the manufacturer’s original specifications, which they sometimes associate with increased risk.
How Brentacre Stands Out
At Brentacre, we take a different approach when compared to other car insurance brokers. This is because we understand that cosmetic modifications like car wraps are about personalisation, not necessarily increased risk. That’s why we don’t charge extra for cosmetic modifications. Whether you’re wrapping your car in bold colours or opting for a subtle protective layer, you won’t see your premium increase under our modified car insurance policy.
Is Car Wrapping Considered A Legal Modification?
Yes, car wrapping is entirely legal in the UK, but it comes with some legal responsibilities, such as:
Legal Considerations For Car Wrapping
- Notify the DVLA if the Car’s Colour Changes:
- If the wrap changes your car’s primary colour, you must inform the DVLA and update your V5C logbook. Failure to do so can result in fines.
- Comply with Visibility Laws:
- Wraps that affect visibility, such as reflective or camouflage designs, could violate UK road regulations. Ensure the wrap does not impair visibility for other drivers.
- Inform Your Insurer:
- You must notify your insurance provider about any modification, including car wrapping. Failing to declare a wrap could invalidate your policy.
Advantages of Insuring a Wrapped Car with Brentacre
Choosing Brentacre for your car insurance offers several benefits, particularly if you own a modified or wrapped vehicle. Here’s why we’re the ideal choice:
- Free Cosmetic Modifications:
- Wrapping is considered a cosmetic modification under our policy, and we don’t charge extra for it.
- Specialist Knowledge:
- Our policies are designed specifically for modified cars, so we understand the needs of drivers who want to customise their vehicles.
- No Hidden Fees:
- Many insurers impose additional costs for modifications, but Brentacre offers transparent policies that prioritise customer trust.
With Brentacre, you can wrap your car without worrying about added insurance costs or complicated conditions.
Final Thoughts
Car wrapping is a fantastic way to personalise your vehicle, protect its paintwork, and stand out on the road. While most insurers charge higher premiums for wrapped cars, Brentacre takes a more customer-friendly approach.
With our modified car and modified van insurance policies, cosmetic changes like wraps come at no extra cost.
If you’re thinking of wrapping your car, focus on quality materials, professional installation, and clear communication with your insurer. For peace of mind and fair pricing, consider Brentacre for your modified car insurance needs. Get in touch today to explore your options.
