Car enthusiasts would be made to carry out modifications to their vehicle without first informing their insurer, Radio 1 DJ and self-professed “Big Dawg” Tim Westwood has claimed.

According to the Pimp My Ride UK presenter, there are a growing number of motorists around the country who are showing their passion for making their car unique. However, Westwood, commenting in conjunction with Tesco Car Insurance, illustrated that even small modifications can have an upward effect on car insurance premiums. The supermarket pointed out that additions such as a non-standard in-car entertainment system can make a vehicle more appealing to thieves and as such, drivers need to make sure they tell their insurer before installing such devices.

For those who want to find the funds to make modifications to their vehicle, taking out a car loan may prove an effective way to do so. Opting for a cheap car loan could also allow people to pay for the work to be done professionally.

However, mod expert Westwood pointed out that many drivers are deciding to take on such work themselves.

“It’s easier now for kids to customise their rides, and it’s popular up north. Pimp (modification) shops aren’t doing so good because kids are self-customising. It’s all about DIY – fitting your own sound system, adding more lights, body kits. Loads more girls are getting involved too, capturing their own flavour, really getting into it. I’m not talking about girl racers, just girls that really love their cars,” he commented.

Meanwhile, for those considering making changes to their vehicle, Tesco suggested that fitting anti-theft devices such as immobilisers and alarms could help to counteract inflated cover brought on by modifications.

These can help to lower premiums because they can often deter thieves from trying to steal the vehicle or its contents.

Indeed, Westwood made clear his support for such devices, adding that they help to keep his five cars safe. Among the security measures used by the “kingpin of the car game” is a security system that will alert him on his mobile if his car is being tampered with.

“I’ve never had anything stolen from a ride, but I’m very careful where I park. I don’t randomly leave my car anywhere. I’m not saying it will never happen, but I do a lot to protect my cars,” he said.

Meanwhile, head of Tesco Car Insurance Allan Burns suggested that for those who are keen to follow in the footsteps of the Big Dawg and add a little extra security to their vehicle, security measures can save considerable amounts off car insurance cover, leaving drivers with a little extra to pay for modifications.

For those who are looking for ways to fund the modification of their vehicle, taking out a car loan may provide cash quickly, allowing people to invest in the very latest gadgets and additions for their car. Doing so may also be of interest to those who are looking to buy a new car after uSwitch advised that personal loans can often provided a cheaper alternative to dealership finance products.

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