Drivers warned against TikTok modifications that can cause damage to your vehicle 🚗

TikTok is proving to be the go-to platform to find the latest viral video for a DIY hack to spruce up your car, with data showing that car modifications have become increasingly popular on the app. There are over 2.8 billion video views under the hashtag #modifiedcars and 64.7 million video views under the hashtag #carmodification, suggesting drivers are increasingly looking for quick ways and viral hacks to modify their vehicles.

But should you try these viral mods at home? Specialist insurance broker ChoiceQuote has explored TikTok car modifications videos to find out whether these hacks are worth it.

1. Installing fairy lights inside of car –  Avoid

A TikTok creator, amassed over 1.4million likes in a video where he showed motorists that a way to give the inside of their vehicles a cool and unique feel was to add star fairy lights. Driving with interior lights is legal and fairy lights can add a nice ambience to your vehicle, however, drivers should be warned that it may not be the safest idea as it can cause distractions and limit visibility. The Highway Code warns against distracting other drivers with shining lights through your back window. It also states that the driver must have a clear view of the road ahead of them at all times, with no distractions. Motorists should avoid this modification to limit any potential accidents caused by lack of visibility and distractions.

2. Changing the height of your gear stick – Avoid 

Many TikTok creators have shared hacks on how to change the look and height of their gear stick. Drivers may want to change their gear stick for aesthetic purposes or to get better reach and control of their gear stick. Drivers should be advised to avoid changing the height of their gear stick as it could cause safety problems while driving due to ill-fitting and accidental gear shift mechanisms. If the height of the gear stick is an issue for motorists, they should adjust the height of their seats to a better position or look into purchasing an aftermarket shift knob that will raise the height and come in more styles to suit the driver’s style.

ChoiceQuote recommends that drivers consult their mechanic if they want to adjust the height of their gear stick rather than attempt this modification. Motorists should consider aftermarket options if the driver wants a more personalised gear stick.

3. Spray painting your cars backlights – Avoid

There are many videos on TikTok showing drivers of a simple way to spray their backlights at home using tint spray. The hack has gained traction online with one video gaining over 800,000 views, however, this hack should be avoided at all costs. Comments from TikTok on the viral video warn “How to ruin your headlights 101” whilst others have asked “Are tinted tail lights legal?”

ChoiceQuote has warned against attempting this modification trend. In the UK there aren’t any laws that completely ban headlights or rear tints. However, there are restrictions including lights that must remain their original colour and the tint can’t dim lights by more than 50%. Spraying backlights should be avoided as this can significantly reduce their visibility and make it harder for other drivers to see breaking and turning signals, which could lead to collisions. Spray tint can often fade and be more difficult to remove, ChoiceQuote recommend using taillight film as a safer alternative that offers better visibility. Applying headlight films might seem simple, but to avoid any disappointment or legal implications it is best to visit your local garage or appropriate company to fit this correctly and safely to adhere to road standards.

4. Debadging your car – Safe

Many creators have shown motorists a way to make their cars look sleeker by debadging their vehicle’s emblems. The hack received over 25.6k likes on a video, which involves a hairdryer to heat the adhesive backing of the badge and using dental floss to slide beneath to lift the badge/emblem from the vehicle. Debadging your vehicle is a simple and low-cost way to give your car a more minimalist and sleek appearance and allows for more personalisation of your vehicle.

ChoiceQuote advises that drivers should be careful if attempting this mod as you could damage the paint work if you don’t take your time. Motorists should consider how soon they want to sell their car as debadged vehicles might affect the resale value. ChoiceQuote recommends drivers keep the badge as once you’re ready to sell new owners might want to reapply them.

5. Vinyl wrapping your car – Safe

Vinyl wrapping your car is not a new modification hack, it is a way for drivers to change the appearance of their car easily without having to purchase a new vehicle. The mod has regained popularity on TikTok with one video tutorial gaining over 75k views. Vinyl wrapping protects cars original paintwork with a layer of vinyl coating. Unlike paint, vinyl wraps can be easily removed without damaging the paintwork. Drivers may be inclined to try this hack at home, drivers should note that if the wrap isn’t applied correctly water can get trapped which could lead to rust on the car and paint underneath.

ChoiceQuote advise motorists to visit a specialist to ensure that the vinyl wrap is applied correctly that it has its protective benefits and is applied smoothly avoiding any air bubbles. Additionally, if the wrap changes the apparent colour of a vehicle it is important to declare it to the DVLA for registration purposes.

Phil Leese,Taxi and Specialist Motor Trading Manager, at specialist insurance broker  ChoiceQuote comments: “Whilst some of these popular car modifications may seem simple to execute with household items, it’s clear that some of these methods could actually cause more damage to vehicles and compromise the safety of the driver. It’s safe to say these methods may not be worth it in the long run and instead drivers should consult their local mechanic and garage for guidance before undertaking any modifications projects.”

Some modifications are not as simple as they may appear in viral videos and will require specialist knowledge and tools. If you are hesitant about your ability to do the modification, it’s best to visit a professional to avoid any risk, or damage to your vehicle and ensure it meets safety standards. Drivers must tell their insurance provider of any changes made to their vehicle as if they are not declared your insurance provider could invalidate your insurance and cancel your policy.”