Final answer:
The main drawback of using aesthetic modifications is that their value is subjectively determined, thus making consumer satisfaction difficult to achieve universally. This is complicated by the varied intangible factors that can influence consumer perception and decision-making.
Step-by-step explanation:
The major drawback to using aesthetic modifications is b) that the value of the modification is determined subjectively. This is because the perception of aesthetic value varies greatly among individuals, making it challenging to satisfy all consumers' tastes and preferences. Aesthetic modifications often involve subjective assessment and personal taste, as opposed to functionality or performance which can be measured more objectively.
When designers engineer a product such as a car with aesthetic modifications, it may appeal to certain consumers while alienating others whose preferences differ. Furthermore, product differentiation, whether through tangible or intangible aspects, can influence consumer choices significantly. Factors like brand reputation, advertising, or even services like free delivery play a role in how a product is perceived apart from its physical characteristics. The cost tied to creating and marketing these modifications is also a point of consideration, as it may not add equivalent value for all consumers, who might have been equally satisfied with less differentiation at a lower price.