Isn't it generally true that modifying a new or very late model car, particularly a quality, relatively expensive car, like Mercedes, would negatively affect resale value?

If so, why do many members of this forum modify their Mercedes?

 

Performance mods, and aggressive-looking appearance mods give the appearance that the owner likes to race and probably drove their car hard, so any conservative buyer would stay away, especially when buying used. Now if you happen upon a young fellow looking for his first car, then they'd probably be all over it.

Your car is meant to be enjoyed while you own it, you shouldn't let resale value come into the equation while owning it, that is just the cost of your enjoyment

 

Even on my old 08 C300- all of my mods were reversible. I think Drazil is right so unless you find a private buyer interested in the same mods as you- you might be surprised at an appraised trade value.

 

That's why those of us who mod keep our stock OEM parts in the garage Near everything is reversible and if you invest in quality aftermarket parts, it's not too difficult getting some value back for the expenditure.

 

All my mods can be backed out easily. I don't do performance mods so that isn't an issue.