Do car insurance companies cover options beyond the original trim?

When insurance companies assess the value of the car after it has been
a) stolen b) damaged ->my fault c) damaged ->other drivers fault
will they also consider the options I have installed in my car?

I called several car insurance companies and got mixed answers. One representative said that they'll only cover the original trim. So if I have a Honda Accord with LX trim, that's what they'll restore it to. But since the LX trim doesn't come with automatic transmission or heated seats, they won't pay for that.

I'm not talking about aftermarket stuff but rather the options you can get when buying the car, such as automatic transmission, different paint, power seats or heated seats.

Thank You

Fred C

Factory-installed options, such as auto instead of standard, listed on your bill of sale, are covered, anybody who tells you different is tossing you a broken fishing line. HOWEVER, if you purchased a model that NEVER had an auto trans, and did a custom install of an aftermarket specialty transmission, they wouldn't have to cover that unless you had a rider for the upgrades added to your insurance policy.

Lisa A

Original equipment is covered.

You have to check your policy though. Usually there will be a clause that customizations are covered up to $1000, or something like that.

Claims adjuster

If it is your own company they usually replace or estimate your vehicle to LKQ ( Like kind and quality) extras purchased are generally always considered because it increases the value for your vehicle. Some things actually decrease the value ex. leather seats in Arizona. Check with your policy, also you may be able to claim diminished value for damages caused to your vehicle if it isn't totaled, also this is a per state issue..In TX diminished value is only for the claimant and not specifically for the policy holder...

Grease Monkey

Just make sure you can prove that your car was fitted with the extras and you should be able to force any insurer to replace them.
You need receipts, photos, legitimate witnesses' written statements eg from the garage people that saw your car was painted in a special paint or whatever.
I have had justice done by simply providing good photos of my car proving it was in excellent condition for its age.

But if you are getting insurance, make sure you specify everything beforehand so if you don't like what they say you can take your business elsewhere.

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