How to sell my modified car

Want to sell your modified car without hassle? Here’s the step-by-step guide you need.

So, you’ve done some tinkering to your car and now want to sell it. Selling a modified car can be trickier than a stock vehicle, but knowing the right approach makes it easier. In this guide, we’ll cover how to sell a modified car and explore the best places to get top value for your car.

Did you know you can sell your car right here on Carwow? We’re here to help you through every step of your car-changing journey.

What is a car modification?

A car modification is when you do something to your car to alter it from its original spec.

This can vary from something as simple as repainting the wheels or fitting a new sporty exhaust, to swapping the engine, tinting the windows, getting it wrapped, lowering the suspension, bodywork changes or fitting extra lights and a massive body kit. These are usually the sort of things you need to inform your insurance company about when you apply for cover.

That said, changing tyres doesn’t count as a modification if they’re the same size as the tyres your car came with when it was new. General wear and tear items, such as windscreen wipers, fluids and filters won’t count either (unless you’re fitting a performance air intake, however) as they don’t alter the car from its original state – it still looks the same and hasn’t gained any expensive accessories.

How much are modified cars worth?

The value of a modified car really depends on the changes you’ve made. Some modifications might appeal to enthusiasts and even increase the price a bit, but most of the time a modified car is worth less than an unmodified one because buyers often prefer stock vehicles. People might also not like your tweaks or may factor in the cost to return it to original condition.

That said, certain upgrades, such as restoring an older car or adding modern features, can make it more desirable, especially if your modifications are of high-quality and tasteful. Performance upgrades can also add value, but they rarely guarantee a profit when you sell, so it’s worth thinking carefully about how much you invest in mods versus what you can realistically get back. Check out our full guide on the modifications that devalue cars the most.

Ultimately, a modified car can sell for more or less than standard models, but you’re usually aiming at a smaller, niche market rather than the average buyer.

Where can I sell a modified car?

You can sell a modified car in the usual ways, including selling it privately or through part-exchange. That said, your buyer pool may be severely limited by the modifications. Again, your tweaks may not be to everyone’s taste and stock examples of a car are usually more desirable.

One of your best options may be to sell your car directly through an owner’s group of that specific model on social media or online forums. You’re more likely to find a like-minded buyer there, and your modifications may prove more appealing.

Alternatively, if you don’t want the hassle, why not sell your car through Carwow? Our dealers will compete to offer the best price for your modified car and arrange a collection if you decide to sell.

How to sell a modified car: step-by-step

Here is a quick overview of the most important steps in the process of selling your car:

1. Get a realistic valuation

Check your car’s current market value, not just what you paid or spent on modifications. Use tools such as Carwow’s Value My Car and compare classified ads. For modified cars, consider owners’ clubs or forums. If you want a quick sale, Carwow’s Sell Your Car service allows dealers to bid online and collect the car.

2. Prep your car

Clean and tidy cars sell faster and for more. Repair minor damage or scuffs to avoid price negotiations. Take good-quality photos for your listing – see our photography tips for guidance.

3. Create a listing

Include detailed info: MOT length, mileage, age, colour, service history, features (for example, sat nav, air conditioning), and modifications. Use high-quality photos and list the general location (county only) for security.

4. Have your documents ready

Essential documents include the logbook (V5C), MOT certificates, service records, and modification receipts. These show authenticity and care. For a full list, see our guide on the documents you need.

5. Receive payment and proof of sale

You’ve got a buyer for your car – congratulations – now they need to pay you for it. Ensure payment is genuine before handing over keys. Verify cash at the bank or confirm electronic transfers. Keep a receipt with car details, price, and sale date as proof.

6. Notify the DVLA

Update the V5C logbook with the buyer’s details to avoid future liability for fines or offences. Follow the V5C instructions to notify the DVLA by post or online.

What to consider when selling a modified car

Selling a modified car carries the same caveats (detailed above) as selling any other car, but there are a few extra things that it might be good to consider if you want to get the best price for it.

Will reverting some upgrades increase the value of my car?

Quite often, buyers can pay more for cars without modifications, so if you’ve fitted different alloy wheels or swapped the radio or sat nav unit in your car, for example, and still have the originals, it might be worthwhile changing it back to its original condition, if that’s possible. That way, you can bring your car back to a more original spec without too much work on your behalf, hopefully. You may be able to sell the parts you’ve removed to another enthusiast.

This also goes for removing any stickers or other easily-removable cosmetic bits on the car.

Have I made a note of all the modifications?

Your buyer will need to declare all of the modifications made to their car with their insurance. It’s better to be transparent at the point of sale and make a full list of the modifications made to the car, no matter how small.

It’s worth including any receipts for parts of work done. Buyers are likely to trust the modifications more if there’s recorded history behind them.

Have I valued my car appropriately?

Adding upgrades to a car won’t necessarily translate into adding value to your car. If you’ve made upgrades and are trying to recoup the value of those in the price of your car, you may be disappointed.

You’ll likely need to take depreciation of those parts into account when you value your car. This is where advertising directly in owner’s groups may prove more fruitful than advertising on conventional car sales websites.

Selling a modified car FAQs

Is it hard to sell a modified car?

Yes, selling a modified car can be trickier since not everyone loves aftermarket tweaks, and some mods can even lower the car’s value for the average buyer. That said, it really depends on the type and quality of the modifications – some will attract enthusiasts who are willing to pay more.

To make selling easier, be upfront about every change, list all your mods in detail, and think about either reverting some back to stock or targeting niche buyers and dealerships that specialise in modified cars.

Can you sell modified cars on Carwow?

Yes, you can sell modified cars on Carwow. Just remember to be upfront about all modifications, include plenty of details and photos, and keep any receipts for parts or work. Dealers can bid on your car in our online auctions, but if you want a faster sale, it might help to switch it back to its original condition.

Car change? Carwow!

Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.

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