Drivers risk £200 fine for making popular modification to cars

A company warned drivers to think twice before buying any cheap accessories for their car (Image: Getty)

Drivers have been urged to avoid a number of affordable car accessories that can be bought on social media platform TikTok's shop, as experts say they could lead to accidents and £200 fines.

Many motorists enjoy adding a wide range of accessories to their vehicle to help to modernise its appearance, improve performance, and give the car a personal touch.

However, Phil Leese, specialist motor trading manager at vehicle insurance broker ChoiceQuote, highlighted that drivers should think twice before buying cheap accessories.

He warned: "Adding car accessories to your vehicle is a great way to not only personalise your car to your own style but it can add extra convenience and storage.

"Some of these car accessories that have gained popularity on TikTok may not be worth the investment as they could lead to distracted driving which could result in penalty points, fines and invalidating insurance."

Light-up accessories that fit rear quarter windows can severely limit a driver's view when parking (Image: TikTok @.jiepi)

In particular, ChoiceQuote advised against buying light-up window decorations from the retail platform, with many designed to be attached to the rear quarter windows on each side of the vehicle.

Whilst these window lights come in many forms, with most designed to best fit specific models, the company warned that they can make rear visibility severely restricted, making it harder to park or change lanes.

In some cases, these accessories can also lead to other drivers getting distracted, increasing the likelihood of causing an accident with nearby road users.

LED strip lights can give cars a luxurious touch but may also lead to distractions (Image: Getty)

Similarly, the company recommended that drivers avoid buying LED lights that are fitted to the footwell of their vehicle.

Many motorists regard LED strip lights as a cost-effective way of making a car look more luxurious, adding ambient mood lighting to almost any vehicle on the market.

However, this accessory can lead to drivers getting distracted, particularly if they travel during the longer nights of autumn, which could lead to fines of up to £200.

Finally, ChoiceQuote suggested that motorists do not buy one of the many fluffy steering wheel covers offered on the TikTok shop and other online retail platforms.

Despite being a popular choice for drivers looking to make the interior of their vehicle more attractive, many steering wheel covers reduce the amount of grip motorists have.

As a result, a fluffy steering wheel cover could prevent drivers from avoiding sudden incidents, which may lead to motorists being charged with dangerous driving and issued penalty points on their licence.