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

Baskets, Blankets, and Blue Skies: Celebrating National Picnic Day 2026

Grab your gingham! Celebrate National Picnic Day this Thursday with a look at the history and the best “picnic-ready” recipes for 2026.

Junior Employees, Senior Risks: Managing General Liability This Thursday

Hosting a “Take Your Kids to Work” event next Thursday? Ensure your business is protected from “junior” liability risks with these 3 tips.

Take Your Kids to Work Day: Navigating the “Business Use” Insurance Gap

Bringing the kids along next Thursday? Make sure your car insurance covers your “mini-coworkers” if you’re using your vehicle for business errands.

Earth Day 2026: Is Your Eco-Friendly Upgrade Lowering Your Premium?

Celebrate Earth Day by saving green! Discover how eco-friendly home upgrades can earn you significant discounts on your homeowners insurance.

Why April 15th? The Surprising History of the Tax Deadline

Why do we owe the IRS by April 15th? Discover the history of Tax Day and some of the most bizarre tax facts in American history.

The Tax Day Crunch: Protecting Your Business from Professional Errors

Tax Day is almost here. Is your business protected against data breaches and professional errors during this high-stress week?

National Pet Day: Ensuring Your Life Insurance Includes a Plan for Your Pets

Who will care for your pet if you aren’t there? This National Pet Day, discover how to use Life Insurance to fund a Pet Trust and protect your best friend.

The Refund Reinvestment: Why April is the Best Time to Pay Your Auto Insurance in Full

Got a tax refund? Turn it into a 10% gain by paying your auto insurance in full this April. Discover the math behind the “Paid-in-Full” discount.

Clean House, Clear Mind: Addressing Hidden Liability Risks During Spring Cleaning

Is your spring cleaning creating a safety hazard? Learn how to protect your home and your guests as you declutter this April.

From French Fish to Spaghetti Trees: The Bizarre History of April Fools’ Day

Why do we play pranks on April 1st? Explore the centuries-old history and the most famous “fools” in world history.