So, you’ve just gotten your hands on your first car or inherited your family’s old ride, and you’re ready to make some modifications. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to get started in the exciting world of car modification.
But why would you want to modify your vehicle in the first place? While stock cars are built to a certain price point and come with certain features and limitations, the fact is that you can make your car faster, better, and more unique in almost every way. Modifying your car can allow you to unlock its full potential, learn about how it works, and create a vehicle that truly represents your personality and style.
Of course, it’s important to approach car modification with caution and consideration. Modifying your car may void certain warranties and increase servicing costs, and it’s important to follow all applicable laws and regulations. With that in mind, let’s dive into the ultimate beginner’s guide to modifying your car.
1. Servicing
The first step in the modification process should always be to give your car a thorough service, including changing the oil and checking all the fluids. This will ensure that your car is running at its best before you start making any modifications.
Changing the oil is a simple and essential task, especially when getting a new or used car. Be sure to check the car’s manual for the recommended service intervals and use the appropriate type and weight of oil for your climate and driving needs. You’ll also want to replace the oil filter and washer, and remember to label the filter or note the date and mileage of your service to track when it’s due again.
In addition to the oil, there are other fluids in your car that should be checked and replaced as needed, such as brake fluid, coolant, and steering fluid. Consult your factory manual for the recommended service intervals and consider making them more frequently if you’re using your car for track days or other demanding driving conditions.
2. Wheels and Tires
One of the most visible and impactful modifications you can make to your car is to upgrade the wheels and tires. Larger or wider wheels can improve the appearance and handling of your car, while performance tires can improve traction and grip. Just be sure to choose wheels and tires that are compatible with your car and driving needs, and consider the cost and maintenance requirements.
Read More: Best After-Market Alloy wheel brands
3. Suspension
Another area to consider when modifying your car is the suspension. Upgrading the springs, shocks, or sway bars can improve your vehicle’s handling and ride comfort, but it’s important to choose components that are compatible with your car and driving style. You’ll also want to consider the cost and installation difficulty of the various options.
4. Intakes and Air Filters
Intakes and air filters are simple yet effective modifications that can improve the performance of your car by increasing the airflow to the engine.
An intake system brings air into the engine, typically through an air filter. The air filter is a component that removes dust, dirt, and other contaminants from the incoming air, helping to protect the engine and improve its efficiency.
There are various types of intakes and air filters to choose from, such as cold air intakes and performance air filters. A cold air intake is a system that brings in air from outside the engine compartment, typically through a long, low-restriction tube. This can increase the airflow to the engine and improve its performance.
A performance air filter is a high-flow filter that allows more air to pass through it, improving the efficiency of the intake system. Performance air filters can be made of various materials, such as cotton gauze or synthetic media, and can be washable or disposable.
To install an intake or air filter, you’ll typically need to remove the existing intake and filter system and replace it with new components. It’s important to choose an intake and filter that are compatible with your car and consider the cost and installation difficulty.
Intakes and air filters are simple and effective modifications that can improve the performance of your car by increasing the airflow to the engine. Be sure to choose components that are compatible with your car and consider the cost and installation difficulty, and follow all applicable laws and regulations, such as those related to aftermarket equipment.
5. Lip Kits
A lip kit is a popular modification that can give your car a more aggressive or sporty appearance. Lip kits typically include a front lip, side skirts, and a rear lip or diffuser, and can be made of various materials such as plastic, fiberglass, or carbon fiber.
Front lips are attached to the bottom of the front bumper and can give your car a more aggressive or aerodynamic look. Side skirts are attached to the side skirts of your car and can give it a wider or more muscular appearance. Rear lips or diffusers are attached to the bottom of the rear bumper and can give your car a more aggressive or sporty look and improve its aerodynamics.
To install a lip kit, you’ll typically need to remove the existing front bumper, side skirts, or rear bumper and attach the new components using screws, bolts, or adhesives. It’s important to choose a lip kit that is compatible with your car and consider the cost and installation difficulty.
Lip kits can be a great way to give your car a more aggressive or sporty appearance, but it’s important to choose components that are compatible with your car and consider the cost and installation difficulty. Be sure to follow all applicable laws and regulations, such as those related to aftermarket equipment, and be mindful of any potential impact on the performance or safety of your car.
6. Sound System
Another area to consider when modifying your car is the sound system. Whether you’re looking to upgrade the factory speakers, add a subwoofer, or install a full aftermarket system, there are many options to choose from. Just be sure to choose components that are compatible with your car and your listening preferences, and consider the cost and installation difficulty.
If you want to improve the quality and clarity of your music, consider upgrading the speakers. You can choose from various sizes and types, such as component speakers that separate the tweeter and woofer or coaxial speakers that combine the two. Be sure to choose a speaker size that fits your car and matches your amplifier if you have one.
A subwoofer can be a great option if you want to add some bass to your music. Subwoofers come in various sizes and types, such as sealed or ported enclosures and can be powered by an amplifier or integrated into a larger sound system. Just be sure to choose a subwoofer that fits your car and matches your amplifier if you have one.
You can consider installing an aftermarket system for a complete sound system upgrade. These systems typically include amplifiers, speakers, and a subwoofer and can be customized to your specific listening preferences and car. Just be sure to choose components that are compatible with your car and consider the cost and installation difficulty.
No matter what type of sound system you choose, it’s important to install it properly and follow all applicable laws and regulations, such as those related to noise levels and aftermarket equipment. With the right sound system, you can enjoy your music to the fullest and make your car truly your own.
This completes our Ultimate beginner’s guide to car modifications. If you want to know more or need to modify your car, give us a shout.