Drivers warned of huge fines for failing to report three car modifications to DVLA

Drivers must declare three modifications made to their vehicle to the DVLA or face massive fines.

Failure to report the changes could potentially lead to fines as well as nine penalty points on your licence. The three alterations - lowering suspension, adding giant spoilers and tinting windows - can culminate in fines amounting to £5,060.

According to Compare the Market, if you've taken the liberty to illegally manipulate your vehicle's suspension, prepare for a fiscal blow of £2,500 and three penalty points on your licence. Likewise, spoiler modifications have the same penalties. Julie Daniels, head of the car insurance team at Compare the Market, said: "No matter how minor the modifications are, any alterations to a car can potentially impact the cost of your car insurance.

• Read More: Seven changes drivers must declare to DVLA or face fine and points on licence

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"Often it will cost more to insure a modified car because of factors such as: greater possibility of theft, higher risk of speed-related accidents, or simply because your car has increased in value and repairs may now cost more." Motorists are also being warned they could be given a £60 fine for having tinted windows, reports the Mirror.

Ms Daniels said: "If you decide to modify your car while you have an existing insurance policy, you need to notify your provider about the change. Ideally, you should check with your provider before altering your vehicle to find out how it might affect your premium or if there will be any amendment fees involved."

It's crucial for the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) to keep accurate records of your car's specifications for taxation and road safety reasons. Insurance firms and the police rely on DVLA data to access details about your vehicle, such as its colour, model and engine size.

Should you wish to make any modifications, it's necessary to update your V5C document, commonly referred to as a "log book", which is issued by the DVLA to confirm your status as the legal owner of the vehicle.