As different countries’ car culture continues to evolve, the concept of modification has become increasingly interesting and intricate. The new generation of motorists from racing communities and even your average car owner becomes very particular about making their vehicles their own. For many, customizing their car to their own liking is a satisfying thing that shouldn’t be missed.
However, while car modification is certainly a natural thing to do for car owners, it is important to ensure it is done the right way. If not, you could be facing downsides rather than the perks of vehicle customization. To guide you, we’ve listed a few things to consider before modifying your car.
1. Price
Most car modifications are not cheap. There might be times that doing one customization on your vehicle can lead to another surprise expense. For instance, if you have replaced your car’s engine, a fuel change may be necessary. For people who are looking to carry out major modifications, it’s best to create a financial plan first. An upgrade to the undercarriage can cost you $2000 upfront.
Nevertheless, there are still more affordable modifications you can avail of. These may include de-chrome, car audio system, interior trim wrap, window tints, interior lighting kit, headlight upgrades, seat covers, and decals. No matter if you’re planning for a major or minor modification, it’s smart to acquire a quote or estimation from the car shop before making a decision.
2. Compatibility
Every vehicle is different. If you are looking to install a new engine for an old vehicle, you might want to take its compatibility into account. Every car model is wired and assembled uniquely. It took car manufacturers years to design and produce a vehicle with the perfect dimensions and performance. From the brake-force, fuel to air ratio, suspension and chassis rigidity, throttle responses to the power to weight ratio, everything is custom-made to fit every element.
So before you think about throwing a heavier engine into a vehicle designed for lighter units, talk to the right automatic mechanic first. They can advise you if your car can be fabricated and upgraded to make it compatible with the extra weight and power. Doing such modification without expert assistance could damage the entire architecture and geometry of your car.
3. Car warranty
Typically, simple modifications won’t affect your car’s warranty. But engine alterations may do. Take note that most warranties assure that the manufacturer will cover all repairs and expenses as long as you and the vehicle meet certain agreed-upon conditions. The last thing you want to happen is to have your warranty claim denied by the car manufacturer just because of a modified engine. They could link such changes to the damage and won’t take responsibility thereof.
Surely, you’d want to avoid the situation wherein the manufacturer won’t pay for a single dime because you replaced a working car part with a faulty modification. In case you availed of an extended warranty, it’s best to avoid any internal changes or enhances until it ends.
4. Resale value
While car modifications don’t usually lower the value of a vehicle, it might still happen. Some people are not into modifications. As a result, you might find it hard to find a buyer who shares your preferences and interests. Furthermore, the value of vehicle alterations can be challenging to prove to a potential buyer, even if they’re done by a professional.
If you don’t want to kiss that resale value goodbye, it’s safer to stick with less troublesome changes like bolt-on upgrades. These can include high-performance suspension, wider and stickier tires and wheels, less restrictive air-intake, and bigger diameter cat-back exhaust. Such bolt-on mods require little to no changes to the original bodywork but can enhance your vehicle’s performance. That said, it’s always best to keep the original parts of your car so it won’t lose its structural integrity and even the warranty.
Nonetheless, it’s important to know that there are two kinds of car buyers in the market. There are car enthusiasts who are into unique and exciting auto alterations and care less about general reliability. And some casual motorists want a reliable car that they can also sell in the future.
Regardless of your reason for modifying your car, it is necessary to always be careful in changing or enhancing parts of your vehicle. You never know. Your unnecessary paint job might reduce the value of your beautiful car. Follow our tips to help you ensure that your vehicle will be modified at its best. In case you’re still hesitant about other things, kindly reach out to professional automotive mechanics and technicians for further guidance.