Engine swaps and insurance

[sexualbanana]

If I got a swap, would I have to inform the insurance company so they can raise my rates??

[jdmsource]

ya thats what i always wondered when i did my swap, but then i jsut never cared to find out or tell my insurance company.

[1badPT]

Just so you know, if you don't tell them and the adjuster determines that the engine is not stock and the extra power had a role in your accident they could not only decline your claim but terminate you for non-disclosure. If they do this, you go into a high risk insurance market for 10 years. I know someone who is in year 2 of $6,000 a year premiums on a 99 Accord.

Problem is, if you do tell them, there is a strong possbility they won't insure you because there is no way for them to quantify the risk (read no way to figure out what a fair price would be for the risk).

Some specialty insurers will have you get a full appraisal for your car before they'll quote, but they will give you full coverage for your vehicle at least.