If you’re a car enthusiast looking for something different and unique in Islamabad, modified cars are an exciting option to explore. Whether you’re interested in performance upgrades, custom aesthetics, or a complete transformation, modified cars offer a great way to stand out on the road. Here’s your guide to finding the best places to buy modified cars for sale in Islamabad and some tips to ensure you get the best deal on a customized ride.
1. What Are Modified Cars?
Modified cars are vehicles that have been altered or upgraded from their original factory design. These modifications can be purely aesthetic, such as custom paint jobs or body kits, or they can be performance-based, including engine tuning, suspension upgrades, and improved exhaust systems. Some of the most common modifications include:
- Exterior Modifications: Custom body kits, spoilers, alloy wheels, decals, LED lights, and wraps.
- Performance Modifications: Engine tuning, air intake upgrades, turbocharging, sports exhaust systems, and suspension enhancements.
- Interior Modifications: Custom seats, steering wheels, advanced infotainment systems, and upgraded sound systems.
If you’re looking for a modified car, it’s important to assess both the style and functionality of the modifications.
2. Where to Buy Modified Cars in Islamabad?
Islamabad has a variety of places where you can find modified cars, ranging from local car dealerships to specialized auto shops and online platforms. Here’s where to start:
A. Car Dealerships Specializing in Modified Cars
Some car dealerships in Islamabad focus specifically on modified cars, offering both new and pre-owned vehicles with modifications already made. These dealerships often have connections with tuners and customization shops, allowing them to offer cars with high-quality modifications. Popular areas in Islamabad to explore these dealerships include:
- Blue Area: Known for its high-end car showrooms, Blue Area is a hotspot for luxury modified cars and sportscars.
- F-6 and F-7 Markaz: You can find a range of car showrooms that offer modified vehicles along with custom options.
- I-8 and I-9: These industrial areas have various shops offering modified cars for sale, from basic customizations to extensive performance modifications.
B. Custom Auto Shops and Tuning Shops
Many auto shops in Islamabad specialize in customizing vehicles. These shops often have a selection of modified cars for sale or can provide modification services for vehicles you already own. Some of the best places to find modified cars include:
- Auto Parts Market, I-9: This market is home to several auto shops that deal in car modifications and offer both new and used modified cars.
- Saddar, Rawalpindi: Although just outside Islamabad, Saddar is another hub where you’ll find performance and tuning shops that specialize in custom car builds.
- Performance Auto Tuning: Several performance tuning shops in Islamabad focus on engine performance, exhaust systems, and tuning for sports cars. These places often sell the cars they’ve modified, or you can place an order for a custom-built vehicle.
C. Online Car Marketplaces
If you prefer the convenience of shopping from home, online platforms are a great way to find modified cars for sale. Many sellers list their customized vehicles on these platforms, giving you access to a wide variety of options. Popular online platforms to check out include:
- PakWheels: PakWheels is one of Pakistan’s largest online car marketplaces, where you can filter searches specifically for modified cars. Sellers often list cars with detailed descriptions of the modifications made, including photos and contact information.
- Famewheels: Known for selling both used and modified vehicles, Famewheels can be a good place to find cars that have been upgraded with aftermarket parts.
- OLX: OLX also has a wide range of modified vehicles listed for sale. Many individual sellers list their modified rides here, with the option to negotiate the price directly.
D. Auto Shows and Car Meets
Auto shows and car meets are great places to see modified cars in person and connect with owners and sellers. Car meets in Islamabad and surrounding areas allow you to meet car enthusiasts who may be selling their customized vehicles. Some events to watch out for include:
- Islamabad Car Show: An annual event where car enthusiasts gather to showcase their modified cars. You can often find cars for sale or get leads on where to buy them.
- Cars & Coffee Meets: While not an auction, local car enthusiast meets can connect you with sellers or modification shops that have cars for sale.
3. How to Buy a Modified Car?
When buying a modified car in Islamabad, it’s crucial to consider both the quality of the modifications and the legality of the changes. Here’s what you should look for:
A. Inspect the Modifications
- Quality of Work: Ensure that the modifications were done professionally. Check for high-quality parts, especially if the car has performance upgrades like turbocharging or engine tuning. Poorly executed modifications can lead to costly repairs later on.
- Authenticity of Parts: Ask whether the modifications were done using authentic, reputable aftermarket parts. Genuine parts tend to perform better and last longer.
B. Legal and Documentation Check
- Legal Modifications: Some modifications may not be legal on public roads. For instance, extremely tinted windows or modified exhaust systems that are too loud may not be allowed in Islamabad. Verify that the car’s modifications comply with local traffic laws.
- Documentation: Ensure that the car’s registration is in order and that any changes made to the vehicle are documented. This will be important for resale and legal purposes.
C. Test Drive and Vehicle History
- Test Drive: Always take the car for a test drive to ensure the modifications don’t negatively impact performance or handling. If the car has engine mods, make sure it runs smoothly and check for any unusual sounds.
- Vehicle History: Ask for the car’s maintenance records, and if possible, get it checked by a mechanic to ensure it’s in good condition.
D. Price Comparison
Modified cars tend to cost more than stock vehicles due to the cost of parts and labor. Make sure you compare prices for similar modified cars to ensure you’re getting a fair deal. You may also want to calculate the cost of any potential repairs or upgrades that could be necessary in the future.
4. Benefits of Buying a Modified Car in Islamabad
- Unique Style: A modified car allows you to express your personality and stand out from the crowd.
- Performance Improvements: Many modifications, such as performance tuning or suspension upgrades, can make your driving experience smoother and more enjoyable.
- Better Value: Sometimes, buying a modified car can save you money in the long run. Rather than spending on modifications separately, buying a pre-modified car can provide you with a fully upgraded vehicle at a more competitive price.
5. Top Modified Car Brands in Islamabad
- Toyota Corolla: Frequently modified with performance enhancements, new body kits, and custom wheels.
- Honda Civic: Known for having a large modification community, with performance tuning and body customization.
- Suzuki Cultus: Often modified for aesthetic purposes, including custom paint jobs, rims, and spoilers.
- Nissan Skyline & GTR: A favorite among performance car enthusiasts, with extensive modifications for speed and power.
Conclusion
Buying a modified car in Islamabad can be a rewarding experience if you know where to look and what to look for. Whether you prefer browsing through car dealerships, online marketplaces, or tuning shops, there are many options for finding a unique and exciting ride. Just remember to inspect the car thoroughly, ensure all modifications are legal and high-quality, and don’t forget to factor in the price of maintenance. With a little research, you can find the perfect modified car to suit your style and driving needs.
