Stark raving mods - Pictures

Garish alloys, lowered suspension and massive rear wings will put off more potential buyers than they attract

Satellite navigation systems are seen as a bonus by nearly all used buyers. If you leave a portable unit in the car when you sell it, the value could go up by £200, while factory-fit sat-nav will increase the price by much more.

In-car entertainment is a personalchoice, so unusual kit can deter buyers. Avoid huge decibel-pumping systems – most buyers are simply looking for a reasonable quality CD player when it comes to buying a used motor. Unlikely to a

Bluetooth hands-free kits that will work with any make of mobile phone are a plus point. The easier to use they are, the more value they add to your car when it comes to sale time. Well known brands tend to be preferred. Adds £10

Lowering the suspension of a car to improve the looks is frowned upon by many motorists. Drivers tend to prefer to keep their fillings in place and don’t appreciate a bumpy ride – which means this mod will lose you money.

Engine chips should be avoided like the plague. Only fit one if you’re planning to hang on to your car for several years, as buyers are suspicious of engine modifications and will choose a standard model from another seller. Lose

Alloy wheels can swing or stop a deal, so it’s vital to choose carefully. Gaudy metal monstrosities are certain to reduce your cash, but rims from a higher spec model are likely to mean you’re in the money when you come to

Blocking out the sun with window tinting is popular on prestige models. However, you should be careful to comply with legal guidelines, and get the glass modified professionally. Adds £100

A performance exhaust on an appropriate model can be a winner, but it needs to relatively subtle. Four-inch wide ear-bashers should be shunned as they could damage your sale prospects. Adds £50

Keen drivers will be attracted by Recaro seats when looking to buy a used car. These black and red leather figure- hugging examples are available as part of a package from John Cooper Works, and will increase MINI’s selling price

The MINI GP is the perfect example of how professional modifications can add value to a vehicle. This special edition has been created by John Cooper Works, which is the official tuner for the entire MINI range. For advice on mods, as