Leaving docs in the glove box just seems risky to me, especially with older cars that might be more of a target.
Yeah, learned that lesson the hard way back in '09. Came out to find my old Volvo’s window smashed and—poof—registration and insurance gone. Took weeks to sort out. Now I keep copies at home and just a photocopy in the car. As for mods, I usually tell insurance about anything over $500, but honestly, I’ve never seen a clear rule. Seems like it’s better to over-report than get burned later.
I get the worry about leaving docs in the car, but honestly, if someone wants in, they’ll get in. I just keep the bare minimum in the glove box—no originals, nothing with my address. Insurance is picky about mods, though. I’ve had them nitpick over a $200 steering wheel before... go figure.
Insurance is picky about mods, though. I’ve had them nitpick over a $200 steering wheel before... go figure.
That’s wild, but honestly, not surprising. I swapped out my seats for some old-school buckets I found on Craigslist, and my insurer wanted photos, receipts, the whole nine yards. Didn’t even cost much, but they acted like I’d put in a turbo kit or something. Ended up just telling them it was “like-for-like” and hoped for the best.
About the docs in the car—yeah, I get the logic of not leaving originals. I used to stash everything in the glove box until my window got smashed for a backpack (which had nothing in it except gym socks). Now I just keep a photocopy of registration and my insurance card, no address showing. Not sure if that’s technically allowed, but it’s worked so far.
Curious if anyone’s actually had a claim denied because of a mod they didn’t declare? Or is it mostly scare tactics from the companies? I’m always on the fence about what’s worth reporting, especially with older cars where half the stuff is “custom” just to keep it running.
Had a client lose out on a claim once because they swapped their wheels and didn’t mention it—insurance called it a “material change” and said nope. It’s rare, but it happens, especially if the mod could be linked to the damage or theft. Honestly, with older rides, insurers can get weirdly picky even over stuff that’s just keeping the car alive. I usually tell folks: if you’d miss it if it was gone, document it. Otherwise, you’re rolling the dice.
That’s spot on about insurers being picky with vintage cars. I’ve seen folks get tripped up by the smallest things—like swapping out a radio or even just adding aftermarket seatbelts. Here’s how I usually break it down for people who want to keep costs down but still be covered:
1. List every mod, even if it seems minor. If you’ve replaced parts just to keep the car running, snap a few photos and keep receipts. Some companies are fine with “period-correct” replacements, others aren’t.
2. Ask your insurer what they consider a “material change.” It’s not always obvious—sometimes even a paint job can count.
3. If you’re on a budget, prioritize documenting anything valuable or rare. That $20 shift knob? Maybe not worth the hassle, but those original hubcaps definitely are.
4. Don’t assume your agent will remember every detail you mention in passing—get it in writing.
I know it feels like overkill, but I’ve seen claims denied over stuff that seemed harmless at the time. Better safe than sorry... especially when parts for these old rides aren’t getting any cheaper.
