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Drivers should make an effort to understand the rules and regulations governing car modifications, it has been suggested.

Jennifer Culley, a spokesperson for Direct Line car insurance, pointed out that modifications often add value, and could make a vehicle more desirable in the eyes of thieves.

However, she added that car insurers did not usually penalise drivers who made modifications to improve safety and vehicle security.

Insurance Daily reported earlier this year that making modifications to a car could increase the cost of insurance by as much as 139 per cent.

Ms Culley also pointed out that for safety reasons, modifications should only be carried out by qualified professionals.

"Make sure you notify your insurer prior to performing any modification so that you know how much they will increase your premium and if the risk is still acceptable," she commented.

Drivers are advised to make sure that any modifications they make are legal. "Bull bars" were banned by the EU last year for posing a threat to pedestrians and other drivers.