Are Used Cars with Modifications Worth It? Exploring Downside, Risks and Drawbacks

What is an auto modification?

Auto modifications simply refer to any changes made to a car or vehicle that were not part of the original design or make. This could be anything from getting a new paint job to a complete engine overhaul. No matter how big or small the alteration, it’s considered an auto modification if not included in the original car design.

Not all vehicle modifications follow the country’s legal norms, and that could cause you to get into trouble with the law. It is therefore important to understand and study the legal terms and conditions in terms of auto modifications of the state/country you reside in and you drive your vehicle in.

Pros and Cons of Modifications

Pros

• You can add your unique niche to your vehicle.
• Modifications can enhance the performance of your car.
• You can make your vehicle more stylish and visually aesthetic.
• New parts and features can make the car look different and perhaps new.
• Some alterations can enhance the value of your car.

Cons

• Modifications are expensive.
• The resale value of the car could drop.
• The parts used to modify might not be reliable, durable, high quality, or genuine.
• New parts could cause your car to age faster depending on the type of modification.

When to say no?

A few modifications could hurt your car!

It is far more common that alterations are something you will want to stay away from. You have no real way of knowing the skill level of the mechanic who will work on your car. This goes for shops, and service centers as well. Look into who exactly fitted that nice new exhaust. Also, those modifications may not appeal to you or whoever the next owner may be, hurting the vehicle’s resale value as mentioned above.

A more common example of this is window tinting. Enthusiast or not, it’s common to see a modified car where the only change made is the window tint. Once again, this can either save you money and time or cost you the same. Poorly installed tint can bubble or tear off, so verify who you get the modification done from.

Research First

This said some minimal modifications on a used car should not scare you off. If the modification is done by a trusted mechanic and there are invoices for the same, you can go ahead and purchase the vehicle. You must be ready to do some groundwork and research before you lay hands on used cars that are modified.

Also, be mindful of the traffic rules and regulations in your city/state. There are regions like Kerala where car modifications are illegal.

Final Word

Buying a car is a major investment – whether you are buying it new or used. It is therefore important to make the choice fully informed and researched. Make sure you know about the alterations made to the car when buying a pre-owned car. Understand when and where the modification was made and whether you are ready to use the vehicle as it is. Not everyone likes a loud exhaust and fully tinted windows. It is a personal choice.