Adjusting the height of your car, also known as “lowering” or “raising” the suspension, is a popular modification that can improve the handling and appearance of your vehicle. However, before making any changes to your car, it’s important to understand how it may affect your insurance coverage. In this article, we’ll explore whether adjusting your car height voids your insurance and discuss some potential risks and considerations to keep in mind.
What Is Suspension Modification?
Suspension modification involves altering how a vehicle’s wheels and tires interact with the road. This can be done through various methods, such as changing the springs, shock absorbers, or other components of the suspension system. Suspension modification can improve the performance and handling of a car, as well as alter its appearance.
One common form of suspension modification is adjusting the car’s height, which can be done by either lowering or raising the suspension. Lowering the suspension can give a car a sportier, more aggressive look and can improve its handling by lowering the center of gravity and increasing stability. However, it can also make the car more prone to bottoming out or scraping on rough roads or driveway entrances.
On the other hand, raising the suspension can be helpful in off-road driving or for clearance in areas with deep potholes or other obstacles. It can also give a car a more rugged or “lifted” appearance. However, raising the suspension can also negatively impact a car’s handling and performance, as it increases the center of gravity and reduces stability.
How Does Suspension Modification Affect Insurance?
When it comes to insurance, most car modifications, including suspension modifications, fall under the category of “non-standard” modifications. These changes deviate from the manufacturer’s original specifications and are not typically covered by a standard auto insurance policy. If you make any changes to your car’s suspension, you may need to inform your insurance provider and potentially purchase additional coverage.
However, the impact on your insurance coverage will depend on the specific modification and the policies of your insurance company. Some insurance providers may not cover suspension modifications at all, while others may offer coverage for an additional premium. Some may also have specific restrictions or exclusions related to suspension modification, such as limits on the amount of lowering or raising allowed.
It’s important to keep in mind that insurance coverage is designed to protect you in the event of an accident or other covered loss. If you make any changes to your car that increase the risk of an accident or damage, your insurance premiums may go up or you may be denied coverage altogether. This can include suspension modifications that alter the handling or stability of the car, or that make it more prone to damage on rough roads.
Considerations for Suspension Modification
If you’re considering modifying your car’s suspension, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind:
- Check with your insurance provider: Before making any changes to your car’s suspension, it’s important to check with your insurance provider to understand how it may impact your coverage. Make sure to provide details about the specific modification you’re considering and ask about any potential exclusions or restrictions.
- Understand the risks: Suspension modification can improve the performance and appearance of your car, but it can also increase the risk of damage or accidents. Consider the specific risks associated with the modification you’re considering, and weigh them against the potential benefits.
- Follow the law: In some cases, suspension modification may be illegal or may require special permits or inspections. It’s important to follow your area’s laws and regulations to avoid legal issues or fines. This may include getting the modification inspected or approved by a licensed mechanic or government agency.
- Get it done professionally: Suspension modification can be complex and requires specialized knowledge and tools. It’s important to have the work done by a trained and experienced professional to ensure it’s done correctly and safely.
- Keep documentation: It’s a good idea to keep detailed documentation of any modification you make to your car, including receipts, invoices, and before-and-after photos. This can be helpful if you need to file a claim with your insurance provider or if you need to prove that the modification was done correctly.
In summary, adjusting the height of your car’s suspension can void your insurance coverage or require you to purchase additional coverage. Understanding the risks and considerations involved in suspension modification is essential and communicating with your insurance provider before making any changes is essential. By taking the time to do your research and being aware of the potential impacts, you can make informed decisions about whether suspension modification is suitable for you and your car.