Do accessories add value when a car is written off?

Today's value, not what you paid

Accessories lose value over time, like the car itself. So they're usually valued at what they're worth now, not the price on the original invoice.

Accessories that commonly add value

Items that commonly add value include:

• Bull bars
• Tow bars
• Canopies and trays
• Roof racks
• Side steps
• Winches
• Aftermarket wheels
• Upgraded head units
• Suspension lifts

Standard equipment isn't counted twice

If an item came standard on your car's variant, it's already part of that variant's value. Only items added to the car count as extra.

Evidence that helps

An invoice showing the item, the price and the date it was fitted is the clearest evidence. If you've lost it, a current listing for the same item new shows what it costs today. Photos of the car showing the accessories also help.

Check your policy

How accessories are treated depends on your policy, so check its wording and ask your insurer if anything's unclear.

I've lost the invoice. Can an accessory still be valued?

A current listing for the same item, new, shows what it costs today. It can then be valued the same way as with an invoice.

Why isn't an accessory worth what I paid?

Accessories lose value over time, like the car. Their value is usually reduced for each year since they were fitted.