Hi, thinking of upgrading my audio system in my 2013 1 series to the Alpine using the std upgrade. My insurer (Quote me happy/Aviva) said that if I do this then they would no longer be able to cover me. Anybody else had any similar experiences and any advice as to how they resolved this problem? Are there any insurers out there who are a little more tolerant?

Wow that's frankly ridiculous. Most insurers couldn't car less if you change the car stereo. I know some companies even provide car stereo cover as standard.

I'd look into changing insurers to be honest. If they're not going to let you change a stereo that's just downright stupid.

Try Adrian flux (they sponsor the club - http://www.bimmerownersclub.com/insurance/). I use them and never had an issue 

Phoned adrain flux and got a quote, unfortunately £160 more than i am currently paying, but they did say they were suprised that current insurer wouldnt cover as a matter of course, it wouldnt afect my premium with them, going to go back to 'quote me happy' ,( some irony there) to discuss further

Strange - they're usually the cheapest for me or will beat my price if I say I've head cheaper elsewhere. 

Let us know how you get on with "quote me happy"

Switched to direct line who aint bovverd as long as its under £1k of mods

 

Good result then!

I wonder if when you spoke to Aviva (remember they use call centres) if the person you spoke with was a bit slow and confused Alpine for "Alpina" and thought you were doing a power upgrade?

Just trying to think why they would refuse cover