How to Modify a Car

Here are some of the top ways to customize your car's windows, paint, tires, stereo system, and more.
Written by Rochelle Miller-Hernandez
Reviewed by Carrie Adkins
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It's not uncommon to want to personalize a car to fit your personality and lifestyle. There are numerous possibilities and you’re mainly limited by your imagination and budget. Of course, you need to check with local law and vehicle agencies, as well as your insurance company, on possible restrictions.
But those concerns aside, there are many things you can do. Here are some of the top ways to customize your car's windows, paint, tires, stereo system, and more—with a little help from
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Tinting the windows

Customizing your car by tinting your car windows is probably one of the easiest and least expensive ways to personalize your vehicle. Tints come in different percentages in terms of how much sun is blocked, so make sure you check out which one meets your needs, but does not affect your driving ability.
There are also legal considerations, as some states restrict how dark your car tint can be and what windows can be tinted. Otherwise, tint not only personalizes your car, but it also protects it from harmful sun rays while keeping your car cooler.
MORE: How to remove window tint from car windows

Replacing your stereo system

All vehicles come with some type of stereo system, some as simple as a radio and others more complex with things like Bluetooth technology or satellite radio. No matter the type your car came with, you can replace your existing system with an upgraded unit. An additional customization when replacing an existing stereo system is installing new speakers at the same time.

Adding a DVD player

If your lifestyle requires you to drive often or for long distances with passengers, you may consider mounting a DVD player. They can easily be installed on a headrest or on the interior roof, depending on the type of vehicle.
If you're replacing your existing stereo system at the same time, you can often buy one that has the DVD player included. Wireless headphone capabilities are great, so your passengers can enjoy the show without distracting the driver.
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Customizing the paint job

Painting your car
to match your personality can be a great way to customize your car. You can paint the entire car, have a graphic or accent added, or even paint the car wheels. No matter which way you decide to go, it's highly recommended you hire a professional. A bad paint job will only leave you regretting your decision to change it.
You will want your exterior paint to complement the interior color scheme of your car. You can have a two-tone paint job done, or just a few accents strategically placed.

Changing your tire and rims

There are several options when changing your tires and rims to customize your car. You can lower your car or raise the height. You can keep the same rim size or change it with the tire changes.
Rims are available is a multitude of materials, designs, and circumferences. Be aware, however, that making these type of changes can also affect the accuracy of your speedometer, so it's important to get it calibrated after they're installed.
Also, your new tires and rims will most likely attract attention, including the kind you don’t want. With this in mind, you may want to install or upgrade your car alarm system.

Getting the right car insurance

Modifying your car is fun, and it certainly adds a bit of a flash to your daily drive. However, it could make insurance a little tricky, or even hike your prices. For the best deal for you, try
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And to ensure you always have the lowest rate, Jerry will send you new quotes every time your policy comes up for renewal, so you’re always getting the coverage you want at the best price.
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