If you're a fan of Pimp My Ride or Overhaulin', you've probably dreamed of taking your average-looking car and blinging the heck out of it. But, if you're ever planning on selling it, think again. Some accessories and after market changes can add to the resale value of your car, but some can kill it.

Your dream car might be someone else's nightmare. The key is to make upgrades and add accessories that appeal to the widest audience. Don't make a quirky indy film; make a blockbuster.

Rims

Custom tires are a great way to jazz up your car, increase performance and add value at the same time. Avoid oversized rims, especially with low-profile tires. Do those really look good on a Daewoo? Does anything?

GPS

Adding a navigation system is always a plus. It's a great way to take your car to the next level and add resale value. Newer models also offer Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and a host of other cool features like mp3 players and jpeg viewers.

Infotainment systems

The great American road trip ain't what it used to be. A coloring book and a game of Punch Buggy don't cut it any more. Now, if you've got a brood to tote around, a DVD/gaming system lets you park the kiddies in the backseat for a peaceful drive. Not to mention, they're just plain cool.

Satellite radio & stereos

This is another accessory that sure doesn't hurt. Toss in a premium stereo system and now you're talkin'. After all, what's the point of listening to music beamed from outer space if you don't have a sweet system to hear it. But don't go over the edge with a kicker bass system that eats up your entire trunk.

Sunroofs & moonroofs

As long as these are high quality and professionally installed, they're a plus. Not surprisingly, if a guy named Dirk cuts a hole in your roof with an acetylene torch and you duct tape some Saran wrap to it, that's not so good.

Leather seats/interiors

The quality of the product and installation are key here too. If you always dreamed of leopard skin seats, get slipcovers (and professional help).

Body kits

Things like fog lamps, step up bars, bed liners, legal window treatments are all right if they suit the car. Moderation is the key here. Unless you're going to be competing in the Paris-Dakar Rally, do you really need headlights the size of Quebec?

Alarms systems

Alarm and vehicle recovery systems are great add-ons. They not only enhance the value, but they trim the insurance premium in the bargain.

Modified suspensions

Low-riders, hi-risers, donks, boxes and bubbles. In a word: Don't. You will probably kiss your warranty goodbye and say hello to higher insurance prices. It might turn heads, but it won't help you when it comes time to resell.

Crazy paint jobs

Flames, nearly naked women and mystic finishes might look cool, but custom paint is nearly impossible to match and, let's face it, a wizard on the side of your van isn't for everyone.

Remember, if you personalize your car too much, you're shrinking your pool of prospective buyers. Fewer buyers means a lower price. But, if you're smart with your after market accessories, you'll have to beat off buyers with a stick.