Modified Car Insurance in Saudi Arabia: What You Need to Know to Avoid Rejection

Car modification is no longer just a niche hobby for performance or speed enthusiasts. In Saudi Arabia, it has evolved into a form of personal expression and a way for drivers to customize their vehicles to match their unique style. Many car owners now upgrade their vehicles with visual or technical enhancements such as performance exhaust systems, aftermarket rims, or advanced infotainment and lighting setups.

However, this passion for modification raises an important question: Can you actually insure a modified car in Saudi Arabia? And how do insurance companies treat such customizations? In the sections below, we explore the key policies and conditions you need to understand and offer practical steps to ensure your modified car is properly and legally insured.

What Is Considered a Modified Car According to Insurance Companies?

A car is considered modified if it undergoes any changes that deviate from the original specifications approved by the manufacturer or dealership. These modifications do not have to be major to be flagged by insurance companies. Even a seemingly minor change, such as installing a premium sound system or repainting the vehicle, can bring the car under the modified classification.

Modifications generally fall into three main categories: mechanical modifications like engine tuning or installing a turbocharger, external modifications such as new rims, spoilers, or custom paint, and internal or electronic changes like ambient lighting or non factory infotainment systems. Even non compliant window tinting or the use of unauthorized accessories may lead insurers to classify the vehicle as modified, making it essential to disclose all such alterations when applying for coverage.

Do insurance companies in Saudi Arabia cover modified cars?

Yes, it is possible to insure a modified car in Saudi Arabia, but under specific conditions that vary from one insurance company to another. Some providers avoid covering modified vehicles altogether, especially if the modifications impact safety or performance. However, other companies do offer coverage, provided that all modifications are officially documented and a comprehensive technical inspection is submitted.

Typically, a certified inspection from an approved center is required to assess how the modifications affect the vehicle. In some cases, the insurer may also request an in person evaluation to gauge potential risk before issuing a policy. Any modifications that compromise safety systems, such as airbags or braking systems, are usually rejected outright. Failing to disclose modifications is considered a serious violation and may lead the insurer to cancel the policy or deny any future claims.

Requirements for Insuring Modified Cars in Saudi Arabia

To ensure an insurance application is accepted, car owners must meet several essential requirements. First, all modifications must be officially documented through the Saudi traffic authority or the Absher platform, with invoices and technical reports attached. Second, a comprehensive inspection report from an authorized center is usually required to confirm that the vehicle remains safe after the modifications. Third, full disclosure of all modifications, no matter how minor, is mandatory when submitting the insurance request.

Insurance companies also reject any modifications that negatively impact key safety systems, such as tampering with the braking system or disabling airbags. Such changes are considered grounds for immediate denial of coverage or even cancellation of an existing policy if discovered later.

Modifications That Can Lead to Immediate Insurance Rejection

Some modifications are automatically flagged by insurance companies and placed on a blacklist, making coverage extremely difficult or even impossible. These include structural changes to the chassis, excessive lift kits that raise the vehicle significantly, engine upgrades performed without official inspection or authorization, installation of turbo or superchargers without proper documentation, and the use of non genuine or non GCC spec parts.

Before proceeding with such modifications, it is highly recommended to consult your insurance provider to determine whether the changes are acceptable. If they pose a risk to your insurance eligibility, consider postponing or removing them to avoid delays or rejection when applying for coverage.

What to Do If Your Modified Car Gets Rejected by Insurance

A rejection from one insurer is not the end of the road. You can request a detailed explanation of the reason for the denial, then explore other insurance companies that may be more flexible. Some specialized insurers accept modified vehicles in exchange for higher premiums or more comprehensive documentation requirements.

Submitting additional inspection reports or re registering the modifications through official channels can also strengthen your case. In certain situations, temporarily removing the modifications may help secure coverage, allowing you to reinstall them later after reaching a clear agreement with the new insurance provider.

Top Tips for Insuring a Modified Car Without Issues

Smart handling of your insurance starts with proper documentation. Every modification made to the vehicle should be registered immediately through the Saudi traffic department or via the Absher platform. It is also recommended to contact your insurance provider before making any new changes, keep all invoices and technical reports, and perform regular inspections to monitor the impact of modifications on the car’s performance.

Reading the insurance policy carefully is essential to fully understand the exclusions, as some limitations may only become clear when filing a claim.

How to Officially Register Vehicle Modifications in Saudi Arabia

The process begins by visiting the nearest traffic office or using the Absher online platform. You will need to submit a vehicle modification request along with your national ID or residency card, vehicle registration, invoices for the modifications, and a recent technical inspection report.

Once the required fees are paid, you will receive an official notification confirming the vehicle data update. This step is crucial, as it ensures that the modified vehicle is legally recognized, making it easier to obtain insurance coverage.