I’m brand new to this whole insurance thing, and honestly, it does feel like a “secret dice roll” sometimes. I’ve been reading reviews and making spreadsheets (yep, I’m that person), but every company seems to have its quirks. I keep hearing stuff like
That’s kind of where I’m leaning too. I’d rather pay a few bucks extra than deal with a phone maze after an accident. Still, the whole “modding your car is a crime” vibe is wild. Makes me nervous to even get seat covers...“Not the cheapest, but I’d rather pay a bit more for less hassle if something goes sideways.”
I get what you mean about the “modding is a crime” vibe—my last insurer flagged me for just adding aftermarket wheels. Didn’t even think it was a big deal. Have you found any companies in Kentucky that are actually chill about minor mods, or is it all just a gamble?
- Yeah, insurers can be picky about mods, even stuff as basic as wheels.
- In Kentucky, most big names (State Farm, Allstate, etc.) will flag anything not OEM if you file a claim.
- Some smaller local outfits might look the other way for minor stuff, but it’s hit or miss.
- Honestly, it’s less about the company and more about the specific agent you get. Some just care more than others.
- Seen people get away with way more than wheels, but also seen claims denied over a cold air intake... It’s a crapshoot.
- 100% agree, it’s a total toss-up depending on who you talk to.
- I’ve had State Farm and they grilled me over a cat-back exhaust, but didn’t blink at my aftermarket stereo... makes zero sense.
- Local agencies can be more chill, but I’ve also had one try to jack up my rate after I swapped wheels.
- Honestly, best bet is to get everything in writing if you care about coverage for your mods. Some agents promise stuff over the phone, then disappear when there’s a claim.
- It’s not just Kentucky, either—seems like this is an issue everywhere, just more obvious with our state laws.
If You Had To Switch Insurance In Kentucky, Who Would You Trust?
It really is a minefield trying to get fair treatment for mods, especially in Kentucky. I’ve seen folks get away with full exhaust swaps and wild wheels, and then others get flagged for just tinting their windows. There’s no rhyme or reason sometimes. What you said about agents promising things over the phone, then vanishing when it’s time to file a claim—that’s spot on. Paperwork is your best friend, even if it feels like overkill.
I do think some of the bigger companies have stricter guidelines because they’re just following a playbook, while local agencies might be more flexible... but that flexibility can cut both ways. I’ve had clients tell me their rates jumped after just mentioning new tires, which seems ridiculous when you consider how many people swap wheels for winter or summer.
Honestly, I wish there was more transparency across the board. It shouldn’t be a guessing game every time you want to upgrade your car. But until that changes, you’re right—get everything in writing and don’t take verbal promises at face value. If you’re spending good money on mods, it’s worth double-checking how each one affects your policy.
One thing I’d add: sometimes it helps to ask for specifics in writing about what’s covered and what isn’t, even if it means emailing back and forth with your agent until you have it all spelled out. It can feel tedious but pays off if there’s ever a dispute.
Definitely not just a Kentucky thing either—my cousin in Ohio had to fight tooth and nail to get coverage for his suspension upgrade, only for them to balk at his sound system later on. It really does seem random at times.
At the end of the day, being upfront about your mods and keeping a paper trail is probably the safest route... even if it feels like you’re jumping through hoops.
