[cosmic68]

sorry if i'm being a bit thick here, but..
I take charge of my new MC R56 on 16th March. To it i have added:
Chili pack
Leather punch
Hifi option
Front seat heaters
Interior chrome pack
Panoramic sunroof
Parking sensors
Multi function steering wheel.
What i wanted to know was-are/any of the above considered modifications and should i be declaring them?

Thanks!

[Paul]

You should ALWAYS declare your full spec. Leaves no doubts then. Some companies, such as Elephant, Admiral etc, seem more inclined to charge for these "modifications" than other. Some will not even cover things in their T&Cs with like-for-like cover, even though they're on the invoice and added at the factory.

The best advice is always to talk to your insurer and see what they say, and then ask on here if you've any lingering doubts (which many insurer's cagey or bewildering answers tend to leave you with!)

[cosmic68]

Interesting...
The guys at my MINI dealership told me to declare it has the Chili pack and leave it at that...Possibly bad advice?
So am i right in thinking, that anything AT ALL, that isn't part of the standard MC R56 is basically a modification?
Also, has anyone out there NOT declared items like i listed, but then had to make a claim (succesful or otherwise) with their insurance company?

[Paul]

To be honest, if your insurer is worth their salt they shouldn't bat an eyelid at factory options, but you should make sure you're fully insured and they know about everything. If you're under-insured and something really bad happens (heaven forbid) then you personally could be in very serious trouble, at the very least financially. I always think it's better safe than sorry in these cases.

[humph]

There is a thread in this forum i started about this subject. basically I got into a conversation with my insurer one evneing re. the JCW sound kit I have on my car. They sorted that no problem but the they asked
"Did you upgrade the chili pack?".
"Sorry?" Took me a second to twig "Yes I have 17" wheels"
"What about SS+, sports seats, half leather?"
And this went on. Basically they felt that Cooper chili on the drop down menu of their website was standard car. Any upgrades to this, or any other options where modifications.

As Paul says check, they all have different opinions. Never rely on a web quote and always read the relevant bit of the T&C's. Boring I know, but....

[Pamster]

I've just been through this whilst searching for a cheaper insurance after receiving my renewal which was £250 more than last year Same car, no accidents etc!

I had always thought modifications were something that was done after buying the car and not dealer fit options but after talking to various companies it would appear that you need to declare any variations to standard spec but it doesn't also mean an increased premium. Most companies I tired are aware of the chili pack and what is included in that but I also listed my other bits not included. I would agree it is better to be safe than sorry as if insurance companies can get out of paying out they probably will!

I have gone with Adrian Flux who seem to have a knowledge of Mini's. I told them what I had on my Mini and they confirmed if it came to it they would pay out like for like. They quoted me £388 for my MCS for me and hubby to drive (and hubby has had a claim on his own policy) so I don't think that is bad.