High Dollar Aftermarket Car Upgrades

High Dollar Aftermarket Car Upgrades

Every young generation approaches car customizations just a bit differently. In the forties and fifties it was hot rods, in the early sixties, little sports dominated and, in the late sixties, VW Beetles and Busses were popular. In the seventies, of course, muscle cars took over, followed by a myriad of configurations ranging from “low-riders” and boom boxes on wheels to “spinners”, custom paint jobs and oversized wheels.

They all gain attention, generally appealing to males, and can be time-consuming and costly to make.

Wheels and Tires

Oversized, highly polished chrome wheels or even “midnight” or black rims are being combined with oversized wheels to provide a distinctive look that has even transferred to new cars coming off the assembly line. Tires can cost into the hundreds of dollars per car and a car could have thousands of dollars in upgrades in rims alone.

Sound Systems

It has always been common for youthful Americans to play music loud in their cars, but new technology has taken automotive sound systems to the next level. This sometimes happens at the expense of cargo and interior room. Add in some lighting and a system could price out at what a new Mustang would have cost in 1965.

Custom Paint

Custom paint has always been on the high-end wish list for those individualizing their vehicles. Today’s custom paint schemes can have an almost 3-D appearance to them, taking multiple applications of paint and clear coat. This, of course, can easily reach into the thousands of dollars.

Engine Performance and Amplification

It is almost limitless at what can be spent on getting more and more horsepower out of an engine. Of course, it is not just about the power either. A car has to “sound” right. Engine upgrades and exhaust and amplification kits can rival that of a replacement engine.

It is important to note that some of these upgrades are done to older cars, increasing their value significantly. If you want to cover these upgrades with car insurance, they will need to be noted in your car insurance coverage. If not, coverage may be limited to the basic book value of your vehicle.

If you are upgrading your car or truck, upgrade your car insurance. Contact our independent agents to seek out appropriate coverage for you with a free, no obligation quote.


Do you have questions about your insurance? Find an insurance agent near you with our Agent Finder

Search All Blogs

Generic filters

Buzz Your
Insurance Agent

Search for a local agent with our agent finder map.

Agent Finder

Want to learn more about our blog writer?

Read more about KayLynn's background.

Click Here

Search All Blogs

Generic filters

Read More Blogs

Stars, Stripes, and Secrets: The Surprising History of Flag Day

Happy Flag Day! Discover 5 things you didn’t know about “Old Glory” and the fascinating story of the high school student who designed our 50-star flag.

Caring for the Caregivers: National Nursing Assistants Week and Workplace Safety

It’s National Nursing Assistants Week! Learn how to protect the dedicated staff who are the heart of our healthcare system with smart business insurance.

A Legacy Beyond the Tie: Why Life Insurance is the Real Father’s Day MVP

Forget the socks. This Father’s Day, give the gift of absolute certainty. Discover why Life Insurance is the ultimate act of modern fatherhood.

Blinding Brightness: Navigating June Sun Glare and Your Auto Policy

Squinting into the sunset? Learn the insurance implications of sun glare accidents and why a healthy windshield is your best safety tool this June.

The Smoke and the Spark: Protecting the Ultimate Father’s Day Backyard Upgrade

Is Dad’s new smoker covered? Discover how high-end outdoor upgrades impact your home insurance limits before the big Father’s Day reveal.

Only One Earth: The Surprising History of World Environment Day

Happy World Environment Day! Discover how a 1972 global meeting sparked a movement that helps us protect our “Only One Earth” every June 5th.

Resilient Operations: Small Business Continuity in the Face of Summer Storms

If a storm knocked out your power for a week, would your business survive? Learn the essentials of Business Interruption insurance and storm-proofing your operations.

The Ultimate Seatbelt: Why Life Insurance is the Core of National Safety Month

You wear a seatbelt and a helmet—why wouldn’t you wear a financial safety net? See how Life Insurance fits into your National Safety Month goals.

Beating the Heat: Protecting Your Vehicle (and Your Rates) as Temperatures Rise

High heat means high risk for your car. Discover how a simple tire pressure check can prevent a high-speed accident and keep your insurance premiums low this June.

The June 1st Warning: Securing Your Sanctuary for Hurricane and Storm Season

Hurricane season starts today. Learn why you can’t wait until a storm is named to secure your home and why “Flood vs. Water Backup” coverage is the most important distinction you’ll make this year.