How to Sell a Modified Car: A Complete Guide for Aussies

What Is a Modified Car?

A modified car is one that has had its original features or components changed in any way. These changes could be cosmetic, performance-related or safety enhancements. In Australia, common modifications include:

• Engine swaps or remapping (ECU tuning)
• Custom paint jobs or vinyl wraps
• Suspension upgrades or lowered stance
• Aftermarket wheels and tyres
• Body kits, spoilers or light bars
• Sound system and infotainment upgrades

What Doesn’t Count as a Modification?

Not everything is considered a “mod”. The following changes are typically seen as maintenance or restoration, not modifications:

• Rebuilding an original engine
• Repainting in original factory colour
• Replacing consumable parts (brakes, filters, tyres)
• Retro-fitting optional extras available at purchase
• Adding classic accessories for vintage models

Does Modifying a Car Decrease Its Value?

It can but not always. Here’s how modifications may impact resale value:

Pro Tip: Niche buyers often pay more for high-performance mods. The market shrinks, but the interest deepens.

Is It Legal to Sell a Modified Car in Australia?

Yes, as long as the modifications meet legal requirements under the Australian Design Rules (ADRs) and your state’s transport authority. Illegal or uncertified mods can lead to rejection from dealers or cancel insurance.

Common Illegal Mods in Australia:

• Loud exhausts over 90 decibels
• Neon/underbody lights
• Engine swaps without engineer certification
• Overly tinted windows
• Modifications that breach emission standards

Car Insurance for Modified Cars

Modified cars need modified insurance. Always declare all upgrades when getting or renewing your policy. Some insurers will reject claims if mods weren’t disclosed upfront.

Insurer Tip: Use companies like Shannons or Just Car Insurance who cater to car enthusiasts.

Where to Sell Modified Cars in Australia

There are several options to sell your modified car, each with pros and cons:

Can You Sell a Modified Car to a Dealership?

Yes, you can but many dealerships prefer stock vehicles. Modified cars might be harder to value and resell, especially if there are legal grey areas. Bring paperwork, invoices, and mod certifications. This builds trust and transparency.

Should I Return My Car to Stock Before Selling?

If your mods are:

• Hardcore performance (turbo upgrades, lowered suspension)
• Highly personalised (bright wraps, racing seats)

then yes, you might get more by reverting to stock. Keep original parts if possible.
But if your mods add utility (Apple CarPlay, reversing cams), keep them they often improve buyer appeal.

How to Sell My Modified Car – Step by Step

Here’s a handy checklist to prepare before listing or approaching any buyer:

1. List all modifications

Include brands, specs, receipts, dyno results and even before and after images if possible. This builds transparency and trust especially with enthusiasts or dealers who appreciate the technical value.

2. Check legality and certification

Make sure your mods are ADR-compliant and legal in your state. Some performance upgrades or body changes may require engineer certification or a compliance plate.

3. Get a valuation

Look at similar modified vehicles on the web to set a realistic price. Consider getting a free quote from Sell The Car for a no-obligation comparison.

4. Clean and detail the car

Presentation matters! A professional-level clean, polish, and interior vacuum can easily bump up your perceived value. Don’t forget under the bonnet especially if performance mods are a selling point.

5. Take high-quality photos

Use natural daylight, wide shots, and multiple angles of the exterior, interior, engine bay and key mods. Good visuals make your listing stand out online and encourage more inquiries.

6. Focus on key modifications

Highlight performance enhancing or tech boosting mods in your ad copy like turbo kits, upgraded brakes, or Apple CarPlay systems. These draw serious buyers.

7. Advertise smartly

Use clear headlines like “2020 Subaru WRX with Performance Mods – Certified and Ready to Drive.” Choose platforms where modded cars sell well, like enthusiast groups or niche websites.

8. Be ready to answer questions

Potential buyers will want to know who did the mods, if it affects rego or warranty and whether original parts are available. Be friendly, honest and well-prepared to respond.

9. Especially from enthusiast buyers

They may ask technical questions or want test drives. Vet your prospects but also embrace the detail they’re often the best buyers willing to pay fair value.

Best Cars Modified in Australia

The Aussie car scene loves these models:

Also read: Top 10 Fastest‑Selling Cars in Australia in 2025 – see which models Aussies are snapping up quickest this year.

Final Tips: Sell Your Modified Car with Confidence

• Be honest and transparent about all changes
• Target the right buyers (enthusiasts love performance mods)
• Use platforms that match your car’s appeal
• Highlight legal compliance and paperwork

With the right approach, selling a modified car doesn’t have to be a headache. At Sell The Car, we simplify the process for sellers across Australia including right here in Carrum Downs: no tyre kickers, no guesswork, just a fair deal.

FAQs About Selling Modified Cars

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