Remapping has become a go-to modification for car enthusiasts eager to unlock extra performance from their engines. Whether it’s about squeezing out more horsepower or improving throttle response, remapping can transform how a car drives. However, what many drivers overlook is how this seemingly simple tweak can have a major impact on their insurance.
When it comes to modified car insurance, most insurers (such as ourselves) don’t treat a remapped car the same way they would a factory-spec model, and this can influence both the cost of premiums and the extent of coverage. Therefore, if you are new to the world of car remaps, below we discuss how remapping your car may affect your insurance policy.
What Is Remapping?
Remapping refers to the process of adjusting the engine control unit (ECU) of a vehicle to alter how the engine performs. Manufacturers set the ECU to default settings to ensure a balance between performance, fuel efficiency, and reliability across various driving conditions. However, by modifying the ECU, remapping can change factors such as fuel injection, air intake, and turbo boost to increase power and torque, improve fuel efficiency, or enhance driving dynamics.
For further details on everything to do with car remaps, read our car remapping guide.
Do All Insurers Cover Remaps?
Some standard insurers may not cover modified vehicles, including those with remaps. Therefore, if you’re planning to remap your car, it’s important to find a car insurance broker that specialises in modified vehicle insurance. These companies will assess the risk with more nuance and may offer tailored coverage for remapped vehicles.
At Brentacre, we welcome remapped vehicles and are able to offer competitive insurance tailored to the specific boost in horsepower and torque.
Why Does Remapping Matter From An Insurance Point of View?
Insurance companies calculate premiums based on various factors that affect risk. Therefore, when a vehicle is remapped, it changes its performance capabilities, and these modifications influence how insurers assess that risk. For example, three main aspects that we (and other companies) may look at when putting together a premium include:
- Increased Accident Risk: Remapping enhances a vehicle’s performance, such as boosting power or torque. Therefore, with higher speed and acceleration potential, the vehicle becomes more difficult to control, especially for less experienced drivers. This increased capability can raise the likelihood of accidents, which is a significant concern for insurers.
- Higher Repair Costs: If a remapped vehicle is involved in an accident, the cost to repair or replace upgraded components may be higher than the cost of standard parts. Insurers consider the increased cost of repairs when determining premiums for remapped vehicles, as more expensive claims result in higher payouts.
- Policy Non-Compliance Risks: One of the most important issues for insurers is ensuring that the vehicle is properly disclosed. If a driver fails to inform their insurer about remapping, it can lead to policy non-compliance. This presents a significant issue for insurers because, in the event of a claim, undisclosed modifications can result in denied payouts. This is why full transparency is crucial, and any unreported remapping can lead to invalidating a policy.
How Much More Could You Pay After A Remap?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to how much extra you might pay for insurance after remapping your vehicle. This is because the increase in premiums depends on the type of remap, the extent of the modification, and the vehicle itself. For instance, a performance remap on a high-end sports car will likely result in a much steeper premium increase compared to a modest remap on a family saloon aimed at fuel efficiency.
Additionally, insurers may consider factors such as the driver’s age, driving history, and the purpose of the vehicle. For example, young drivers, or those with previous accidents, are particularly likely to see a steep increase in premiums after a remap, as they are already viewed as higher risk.
Does Remapping Always Increase Insurance Premiums?
It’s important to note that not all remaps will automatically result in a significant insurance premium hike. For example, if the remap is designed to improve fuel economy rather than performance, the increase may be marginal. Some insurers may even offer better terms if the remap results in a more fuel-efficient, environmentally friendly vehicle. However, this is not the norm, and you should still expect some adjustment in your premium.
The Importance of Declaring Modifications
Insurers take non-disclosure very seriously.
Even if you believe your remap is relatively minor or primarily for fuel efficiency, it’s still critical to inform your insurer. Failing to disclose modifications could result in your insurance policy being voided. In the event of an accident, theft, or mechanical failure, you could be left without any coverage, leaving you financially responsible for repairs or legal claims.
Insurance companies typically have a clause in their policies requiring full disclosure of any vehicle modifications. By remapping your car, you’re changing its original condition, and this must be communicated to your insurer.
Weighing The Benefits & Costs of Remapping
Remapping can provide numerous benefits, such as improved performance and fuel efficiency, but it does come with insurance considerations. Before going ahead with any modifications, you should carefully consider the potential increase in premiums, the legal requirements, and the importance of disclosure.
Ultimately, if you’re planning on remapping your vehicle, ensure you do your research and find an insurance policy that suits your needs. Transparency is key. Failing to declare a remap could lead to rejected claims, financial losses, or even legal consequences.
