Motorist intending to make modifications to their car have been advised to have a second thought before going ahead with the plan. This is because it could lead to insurers charging them higher car insurance premiums.

Spokesperson of Direct Line Car Insurance, Jennifer Culley who gave the advice said that while some amendments could make car insurance premiums cheaper if they made the car safer, others would only raise the likelihood or value of a claim and hike premiums.

“Generally, any modifications to your car that increase the performance, value or its desirability to a thief will attract increased premiums,” she warned.

But Ms Culley added that insurers would not generally penalise customers for modifications that would make the car safer or lower the risk of damage or theft.

Insurers often advise motorists to notify them before carrying out any planned work or modification and that they should make sure they are carried out by professionals.