If you’re like me and you’ve ever added a roof rack to your car—whether for hauling kayaks, bikes, or even just extra cargo—you’ve probably wondered: Does my car insurance actually cover this? And more importantly: Can I still get solid coverage without paying more than $30 a month?
After installing a Yakima rack on my hatchback, I did a deep dive into affordable insurers, read the fine print, and spoke with a few agents. Here’s what I found when it comes to insuring roof rack modifications without blowing your budget.
Why Roof Racks Matter for Insurance
A lot of people assume their roof rack is automatically covered—but that’s not always true.
Most insurers only cover factory-installed parts unless you declare your modifications. If you get into an accident and damage a $600 Thule rack or the cargo attached to it, you might be stuck footing the bill if it wasn’t declared on your policy.
The key is to find an insurer that:
- Covers aftermarket modifications like roof racks
- Lets you declare add-ons easily
- Offers optional equipment or accessory coverage
- Still keeps your monthly premium under $30
Top Insurance Companies for Roof Rack Mods (on a Budget)
I compared quotes across the board. Here are the best ones that balanced price, mod coverage, and ease of use:
| Insurer | Monthly Rate | Mod Coverage | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| GEICO | $27/mo | Covers declared accessories | Add rack under “Vehicle Customizations” |
| Progressive | $29/mo | Optional “Custom Parts” rider | Great for multiple mods, easy app support |
| Dairyland | $28/mo | Accepts add-ons via agent | Best for older cars or second vehicles |
| Bristol West | $25–$30/mo | Covers roof/cargo accessories | Ask about limits (some states cap at $1,000) |
| Safeco | $30/mo | Covers OEM & aftermarket parts | Must list equipment when quoting |
Rates will vary depending on your location, driving record, and vehicle, but these five stayed under the $30/month mark when I ran quotes for a clean-driving 30-year-old in California with liability + comp/collision.
What to Watch Out For
Even with mod-friendly insurers, there are a few caveats:
- Some policies cap custom equipment coverage at $1,000. If your setup is worth more, you may need a separate rider.
- Cargo on the rack isn’t usually covered by auto insurance. For that, you’d need homeowners or renters insurance.
- Installation quality matters. If the rack wasn’t professionally installed and it causes damage, your claim could get denied.
Should You Tell Your Insurer About Your Rack?
Yes, 100%. I know it might be tempting to skip it and avoid a premium bump, but failing to disclose it could void parts of your coverage if there’s an accident. Plus, the rate difference is usually minimal—especially if you’re staying with a budget carrier.
How to Add a Roof Rack to Your Insurance
It’s easier than you think:
- Log into your insurer’s app or call an agent
- Look for “Vehicle Customizations” or “Optional Equipment”
- List the rack brand and value
- Confirm it shows up on your declarations page
Some companies even let you upload a receipt or photo for proof.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve got a roof rack—especially one that cost a few hundred bucks—don’t assume it’s automatically covered. And don’t assume you need to pay $100+ a month for full protection, either.
There are absolutely mod-friendly insurance options under $30/month that give you peace of mind without eating your budget. I’m currently using Progressive’s custom equipment coverage and sleep a lot better knowing my roof setup won’t get me stuck with a big repair bill.
You Might Also Be Interested In:
- Best Roof-Rack Pads for Surfboards and Camp Gear
- Car Insurance Discounts You Might Be Missing
- Insurance Considerations for Lifted Trucks
Let me know if you want me to break down coverage for other car mods like light bars or off-road tires—I’ve probably already researched it.