Auto Insurance Claims: GAP avail on used cars? Aftermarket accessories coverable?, 2005 toyota tundra, auto insurance company

Question
I am currently paying on my vehicle. It is a 2005 Toyota Tundra with 100k Miles. I've owned it just over 1.5ys and I owe approx $16k. Due to the market, the value of my vehicle is less then I owe. Is it too late, or necessary for me to get GAP Insurance? Am I even eligible for GAP?

Also, when I bought the car, it came with a Topper installed by the previous owner. I purchased this car from the dealer, but they took no credit for the accessory. Would this Topper be covered by insurance in the event my truck was totaled? These Toppers usually cost at least $1k. Also, there is a third-brake light, interior dome light, and a 12v plug inside the bed that was included with the installation of the topper. If any of these electronics were to become defective and cause some sort of electrical damage to my vehicle i.e. automobile fire, would the insurance company hold me liable if there was some kind of incident? Since these are not factory items.

I ask because I have heard of horror stories where people install aftermarket accessories to their cars and when the vehicle is totaled, they take a total loss on their add-ons. Also, I've read that insurance companies won't cover the damages if the damage was due to non-factory parts.

Thank you

Answer
Hi Drew,

This is not an easy answer. Every GAP insurance policy has different provision. You would simply have to begin shopping for a GAP policy. You should question each company as to their coverage and terms. You shoudl also read any limitations and exclusions. You could start by calling the dealer you bought the truck from and ask if they sell a GAP policy. Also many auto insurers now offer GAP coverage so you should ask your auto insurance company if they sell it.

As for the aftermarket parts, again each company is different in how they handle aftermarket accessories. Some companies have limited coverage, some companies provide full coverage and others do not provide any coverage at all. You should call your agent or company and ask how these items would be covered.

As far as a fire cause by something thet was added to the policy, this would be covered just as any other fire. The part or item that went bad that actually caused the fire would not be covered but, the damage that was caused by the fire itself would be covered.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh