Does remapping affect resale value? (2023)

Does tuning a car decrease resale value?

The short answer is, yes they do, and for the most part negatively. Depending on the car but especially the buyer, modifications can significantly hurt the resale value because simply put, cars are built to spec for a reason.

Making modifications to your car can increase its speed and performance, but it can also lower the resale value if not done correctly.

Resale Value

If you're selling certain vehicles — especially high-end luxury models with very particular buyers — drivers may insist on original wheels when you go to sell the car. As a result, having aftermarket wheels could diminish your car's resale value and increase the time it takes to sell the car.

As it is a modification, remapping can also potentially reduce the value of your vehicle, and even more so if it is not done by a specialist. Check the terms and conditions of your warranty. If you get a remap that isn't approved by the dealership or the manufacturer, this could make your warranty void.

To sum up, a remap will not negatively affect the resale value of your car. It is up to you to advertise your car as tuned or to disclose this fact when you sell the vehicle; if a potential buyer asks about it, it's best to be honest though and come clean.

Replacing certain parts can give your vehicle a personal feel which can't be found with the factory edition. In some cases, having a personalised car can add extra interest and value in the vehicle. However, it can also make selling it at the end of your term a little bit more difficult.

1) Body modifications - Whether it's a new spoiler, a body kit, or hood scoop, changing the look of the car's body is the most obvious and dramatic modification you can make, and will undoubtedly make your car worth less.

Scratches, dents, and visible rust can be off-putting for buyers looking for well-maintained cars. No matter how small the damage, any aesthetic issues on your vehicle will lower the sale price you receive.

What modifications increase car value?

Aftermarket parts can also serve as upgrades to improve the look or performance of your automobile. Certain aftermarket upgrades can have an impact on your car's resale value. Adding custom alloy wheels, the addition of an upgraded sound system, or a body kit, may increase the value of your vehicle.

Other modifications are purely cosmetic. Changing the paint colour, getting aftermarket wheels and tires and replacing any interior components are unlikely to affect your risk factors where insurance is concerned.

Typically, OEM wheels are made of alloy or steel. Steel wheels are often a cheaper option that offers more durability. They are significantly stronger than alloy and aftermarket wheels. These are recommended for powerful vehicles and cold regions with long winters.

Motorists often ask, “can insurance tell if a car is remapped?” The answer is no, but they may find out. Insurers don't inspect cars before giving them cover, so, in reality, your insurer won't randomly check your car for remapping even though some policies may say the insurer can inspect a vehicle if they want to.

Are there any downsides to getting your car 'chipped'? Some people are concerned that engine remapping could cause problems with their car. But it shouldn't affect reliability if you use a reputable company. Remapping does put extra strain on an engine, but not a dangerous amount if it's done properly.

In many cases, a car's remap can be reversed. So, if you decide you'd rather have the original software installed back on your car, it's easily done. That said, this won't bring back the warranty you've voided.

Are Stage 1 Remaps safe?

Stage 1 is the level of remapping that Remap Kings use as it is the only safe level for your car, allowing us to guarantee our work on your vehicle.

Adding modifications to your insurance policy is likely to increase its rate. Repairing or replacing modified parts is usually more expensive, which means you will pay more to insure it. Additionally, minor modifications can lead to the same increase in rates as bigger ones.

No, you don't have to tell your car insurance company your car is modified. And if you have just liability coverage, you may not need to. But if you have comprehensive or collision coverage, the modifications you paid for won't be covered if you're involved in an accident.