Have you seen some of those really COOL SAFETY features in some cars? Maybe it was the Heads Up Display (HUD) in a rental car you drove on a business trip or recent vacation? Perhaps out for a night on the town and a friend was driving their vehicle?

Wish your vehicle had some of those features?

Aftermarket vehicle safety systems upgrades have gained popularity as a means to enhance the safety features of cars, trucks, and SUVs. These upgrades can provide additional protection and peace of mind to vehicle owners.

However, it is essential to consider their potential impact on resale and trade value.

Let’s explore the pros and cons of aftermarket vehicle safety systems upgrades, covering various types of systems, and discuss their effects on vehicle value.

Pros of Aftermarket Vehicle Safety Systems Upgrades:

1. Enhanced Safety Features: Aftermarket safety systems upgrades offer a range of features that can significantly enhance the safety of a vehicle. These include Blind Spot Detection, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Alert (FCA), Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Heads Up Display (HUD), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and more. These advanced safety technologies can reduce the risk of accidents and provide additional protection for drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. The presence of these features can make a vehicle more appealing to potential buyers, potentially increasing its resale and trade value.

2. Customization and Compatibility: Aftermarket safety systems upgrades are designed to be compatible with a wide range of vehicles, including older models. This allows vehicle owners to benefit from the latest safety technologies without having to purchase a new vehicle. Furthermore, these systems can be customized to match the vehicle's interior and aesthetics, adding value both in terms of functionality and appearance.

3. Peace of Mind: By installing aftermarket safety systems upgrades, vehicle owners can gain peace of mind, knowing that they have taken proactive measures to enhance their safety on the road. This sense of security can be a significant selling point when it comes to resale value. Buyers who prioritize safety may be more willing to pay a premium for a vehicle equipped with aftermarket safety systems.

Cons of Aftermarket Vehicle Safety Systems Upgrades:

1. Installation Challenges: Installing aftermarket safety systems upgrades may require technical expertise and professional installation. Depending on the complexity of the system and the vehicle's wiring, installation can be time-consuming and expensive. In some cases, it may even necessitate modifications to the vehicle's interior or exterior, potentially impacting the resale value if not executed properly.

2. Reliability and Performance: The reliability and performance of aftermarket safety systems can vary depending on the brand and quality of the components used. Some systems may have compatibility issues or may not perform as effectively as original equipment manufacturer (OEM) safety systems. This variation in reliability and performance may raise concerns for potential buyers, potentially impacting the resale and trade value. Remember: were not talking tires here-truly you get what you pay for when comes to anything tech related. That goes double for aftermarket vehicle safety systems.

3. Limited Integration: Aftermarket safety systems upgrades may not integrate seamlessly with the vehicle's existing systems, such as the infotainment display or steering wheel controls. This lack of integration can result in a disjointed user experience and may not provide the same level of convenience as OEM safety systems. Buyers who value a cohesive and integrated experience may be less inclined to pay a premium for aftermarket safety upgrades.

Impact on Resale and Trade Value:

The impact of aftermarket vehicle safety systems upgrades on resale and trade value can be influenced by several factors:

1. Market Demand: The United States Congress enacted law that took effect in May 2018 making all vehicles produced for sale in the US to have a Backup or Rear View camera as the standard part of any vehicle just as Windshield Wipers, Seatbelts or Lights.  No longer are Backup Cameras an ‘option’ or a luxury but a necessity.

I believe in ten (10) years, Front Parking cameras and/or Dash Cams may also become standard.

The demand for vehicles equipped with advanced safety features can significantly impact their resale and trade value. If the market favors vehicles with aftermarket safety systems, the value may be positively affected. However, if the demand is low or buyers prioritize OEM safety systems, the impact on value may be minimal.

2. Vehicle Condition and Age: The overall condition and age of the vehicle are crucial factors in determining its value. Aftermarket safety upgrades may have a greater impact on vehicles that are relatively newer or in excellent condition. Buyers may perceive these upgrades as valuable additions to a well-maintained vehicle, potentially increasing its resale and trade value. You might have a ‘fully-loaded’ luxury vehicle costing nearly $70k when new and  less than 10 years old.  But it may be lacking some of these very same features-you can have then installed today!

3. Perception and Preference: Buyer perceptions and preferences play a crucial role in determining the value of a vehicle with aftermarket safety systems upgrades. Some buyers may consider these upgrades as valuable investments, particularly if they prioritize safety. On the other hand, buyers who prioritize other features or have concerns about the reliability of aftermarket systems may not perceive them as valuable enhancements, potentially impacting the resale and trade value. Even exterior LED lighting that appears to be only cosmetic can increase a vehicles profile and hence its visibility to others - and the driver and its occupants safety!?!

Conclusion:

Aftermarket vehicle safety systems upgrades offer enhanced safety features, customization options, and peace of mind to vehicle owners. While these upgrades can potentially increase the resale and trade value by appealing to safety-conscious buyers, factors such as market demand, vehicle condition, and buyer perceptions need to be considered. It is essential to weigh the pros and cons, considering both the initial investment and potential returns, when deciding to install aftermarket vehicle safety systems upgrades.