What counts as a car modification?

6 minute read Published on Mar 17, 2025 by BrokerLink Communications

Person changing a wheel tire, vehicle suspended for further inspection.

For enthusiasts, car modifications are a popular choice for those who want to improve their vehicle's overall performance levels and aesthetic appeal. But what exactly counts as a modification, and are all changes street-legal? Stick around to find out!

What are car modifications?

As we said, car modifications are any changes a motorist makes to their vehicle that alter the car's performance or the way it looks. There are numerous ways you can modify a car. However, some mods are legal, and others are illegal. To ensure you follow traffic safety laws in your province and keep other motorists safe, you'll need to ensure your mods follow the law. Otherwise, you could receive a fine and a licence suspension.

Common car modifications

So, how exactly can you modify a car? Here's a closer look at some of the most common car mods in Canada and whether or not they follow the law:

Nitrous oxide (NOS)

With nitrous oxide, you can add power to your vehicle engine. But nitrous oxide is illegal. So, while this may be a cheap way to make your vehicle drive faster, stay clear of this mod.

Exhaust system modifications

Exhaust system modifications, such as adding noise to your engine, are only legal if they fall within certain limits. Before making these changes, you'll need to ensure your specifications meet legal regulations.

Vehicle suspension lowering

Lowering the suspension of your car is legal.However, you'll need to make sure that it does not touch the ground for obvious safety reasons.

New paint jobs

Paint jobs or wraps are examples of legal modifications that can change the visual aesthetic of your car.

Engine modifications

Adding a turbo, supercharger, or cold air intake is a common way of adding power to your engine and is legal in Canada. That said, removal of your oxygen sensor or charcoal canister is not.

Sports seats

Modifications to your car's seats are legal so long as they are approved for highway use. You can also install a racing seat belt, but it will need to be approved for highway use as well.

Tinted windows

Tint to your windshield and other windows is illegal and must be clear so that other drivers can identify you. You can, however, tint the back window as dark as you want.

Wheels

Alloy wheels and tire changes are legal as well, as long as they are approved by highway safety regulations.

Steering wheel replacement

Some drivers also make changes to the steering column and wheel, which are both legal as long as they connect to your odometer and horn.

Spoilers

Spoilers or fins are aesthetic modifications that add an aesthetic appeal to your vehicle, especially if you're looking to achieve a sporty look. While these modifications are legal, you'll need to make sure that they don't obstruct your mirrors.

Whether or not your insurer takes your modifications into account will depend on who you have your insurance with. Make sure to inform all insurers about changes to your car as it will help them calculate your premium and ensure that you are sufficiently covered.

Do car modifications affect car insurance costs?

Yes, car modifications will impact your insurance premium, especially if you're installing aftermarket parts. This is because car modifications can increase the overall value of your vehicle. If you do need to file claims for damages, it's essential that your insurance covers the new value of your car, so that you can be fairly compensated for your losses. Failing to notify your insurer of any upgrades to your vehicle can lead to a claim denial and the loss of your coverage.

Will modifying my car for accessibility reasons impact my insurance premium?

Modifying a vehicle for accessibility is a great way for individuals with disabilities to gain independence. If you're thinking about making changes to your vehicle, it's important to know that any car modifications, even those for accessibility reasons, will affect your premium.

Note that the extent to which car modifications affect insurance will depend on the type of modifications made, your insurer, and other factors.

How much is insurance for modified cars?

As we've mentioned, modifying your vehicle will affect insurance costs. But by how much? It depends. Beyond the make, model, and modifications to your car, insurers also look at factors like where you live, how long you've been driving, your claims history, your driving habits, the type of coverage you choose and limits, your deductible, and more, making it difficult to determine how much your insurance premium would cost.

If you live in a province with private insurance, we recommend shopping around with different providers and comparing costs; that way, you can find the best rate available.

Can I legally modify the exhaust system in my vehicle?

No, modifying your exhaust system is illegal in Canada. For example, smoke and excessive noise in your exhaust systems are both types of modifications that are not legal. You will need to make sure that any modifications are within legal limits to avoid getting ticketed.

Can my claim be denied if my car has modifications to it?

Yes, your claim can be denied by your insurance provider if you fail to notify them of the upgrades you've made to your vehicle at the time you purchased your coverage. To ensure you're fully covered by your insurance coverage, make sure you're honest with your insurer about your car modifications when renewing car insurance. That way, if you do need to file a claim, you won't have any problems.

Are used car prices higher than new vehicles in Canada?

Because of supply chain issues following COVID-19, used car prices in Canada have skyrocketed in the last couple of years, given the high demand for vehicles and low supply of inventory from dealerships. However, as supply chains have begun to recover, used car prices have dropped and will continue to do so as the demand for new cars once again increases.

What should I consider when buying a used car?

There are numerous things to consider when buying a used vehicle, including the age of the car, how much mileage it has, whether it's been in any previous accidents or not, the current condition of the interior and exterior, how much the car is valued at, and more. Considering these factors will help you do your due diligence and purchase a vehicle that is a good rate and safe to drive.

What should I look for when test-driving a used car?

When you test drive a used car, there are a couple of things you'll want to do and keep an eye out for during your ride. The first thing you'll want to do is perform a visual inspection of the exterior and interior for any damages. Once completed, get into the vehicle and take it for a spin. While driving, listen for any noises, pay attention to acceleration and brakes, and consider how comfortable the car is.

Protect your modified cars with affordable auto insurance

Whether you drive a modified vehicle or not, car insurance in Canada is mandatory for all motorists. While the minimum requirements and policies will vary depending on what province or territory you live in, here's a closer look at the different types of auto insurance you'll need to think about for your modified vehicle:

Mandatory car insurance (can vary by province)

Optional car insurance endorsements (can vary by province)

Contact BrokerLink for customized insurance options at affordable rates

Are you due for an expired car insurance renewal? BrokerLink can help! With access to multiple auto insurance policies from some of Canada's top providers, our brokers are able to customize your car insurance plan based on your unique driving habits and budget, compare quotes, and access insurance discounts!

To work with BrokerLink, visit us at one of our many locations across Canada. If there's no BrokerLink in your neighbourhood, contact us by phone or email! For now, get a free insurance quote from the comfort of your own home using our online quote tool!

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