Anyone planning to make modifications to their car should beware the implications for their insurance premiums, a spokesperson for Direct Line Car Insurance has warned.
Jennifer Culley said that although changes which make a car safer may lower premiums, those which raise the likelihood or value of a claim could be costly.
She explained: "Generally, any modifications to your car that increase the performance, value or its desirability to a thief will attract increased premiums," adding: "Insurers will not generally penalise a customer for modifications that make your car safer or lower the risk of damage or theft."
Direct Line advised customers to notify their insurer of any planned work and ensure that modifications are carried out by a professional.
Injuries caused by bull bars on some 4x4 vehicles led to an EU ban in May 2007, as a law requiring them to conform to strict rules effectively outlawed the features in the UK.
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