Coupe hardtop removal and insurance

[nichop]

Having just gone and removed the hardtop on my 420 and seeing the very large sticker saying 'do not remove the roof', I'm wondering what the insurance implications would be, driving the car without the roof when the manufacturer states it mustn't be removed. Thoughts?

[Bibs]

That's a question for your insurance company really Nick but they insure Elise's just fine so I'm sure it won't even be an issue. 

[RP420]

Hi Nick. I think I recall reading somewhere that the "Do not remove the roof" message is really to do with the possibility of less aerodynamic stability with the roof off at speeds in excess of circa 140/150 mph. I'm sure you are not likely to be driving at such speeds 😉, at least not on roads in the UK anyway!

[jep]

If insurance companies can find a reason not to pay, they'll use it. 

So it's a fair question. As Lotus dealers offer this modification and Lotus Cars sold a roadster Exige, the car is clearly safe without the roof. I had heard the same as above, it was stability at very high speed that is the issue. 

I would be asking my main dealer for clarification of why there is a warning information sticker. Depending on the answer, as Bibs suggests, you may then wish to discuss the modification with your insurance company.

Most owners will just ignore the issue but it's not a problem until it's a problem. Unlikely though that is.

Justin

 

 

[Toqcars]

Just remove the sticker before crashing it 😂

I've read somewhere (I think some exige manual) that when the hardtop is removed, downforce is decreased. But hardtop doesn't increase chassis rigidity, so it's aero only. When on track, I always use hardtop, but prefer targa for the road.