When it comes to car performance modifications, the possibilities are endless. Car enthusiasts have been pushing the boundaries of what an automobile can do since 1886, and look at how far we have come. Let’s see how to decide what performance mods are best for your car.
Many people are content with the luxurious and comfortable cars that come off the assembly lines today. You, however, are clearly not. Modifying your car for better performance is a respectable goal, but before you can get to scheming and wrenching, there are some questions you should ask yourself as you make a plan for your custom build.
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How Will the Car Mod Impact Performance?
Simply modifying your car’s performance is too broad of a goal, as not all car modifications will impact your car in the same way. Do you want to go faster? Do you want better handling? Do you want to be thrown back against your seat every time you touch the gas? Deciding how you want to alter your vehicle’s performance is the first step in the car modification process.
How Much Will Your Car Modifications Cost?
Money always seems to be a factor, doesn’t it? Unfortunately, not everyone can afford the car modifications they pine for, and the search for cheap car mods never seems to stop. In our experience, we have found that sometimes it’s better to get only 90% of the performance you want if it only costs half as much. If you’re confident in your abilities, you can always save money by doing some beginner car mods yourself, but be careful; doing it wrong can be a costly mistake. At the end of the day, you’ll still need to weigh the benefits of that turbo you’ve always dreamed of against the hit you’ll take in your bank account.
How Will Performance Modifications Impact the Car’s Overall Health?
Performance modifications are usually meant to increase performance in your car right this moment. Unfortunately, this can often come at the expense of other vehicle components down the road (both literally and figuratively). Increasing your car’s horsepower increases the strain on your drivetrain and other parts and can ultimately lead to them breaking entirely. So as you modify your car, be sure to consider the impact it will have on the rest of your car.
Will The Modification Impact the Cars Appearance or Aesthetic?
Some performance mods don’t just improve acceleration or braking or your top speed; many will impact your car’s appearance or sound as well. The rumble of your new exhaust or the look of your new brake calipers might be just what you’re looking for, and if you can find a modification that achieves your performance goal while also looking or sounding awesome, then that added bonus should be considered in your decision-making process.
How Will Modifying Your Car Impact Your Safety?
Going fast is fun, but it’s important to remember the potential dangers associated with car modifications. Your vehicle will be getting better at going fast, but it won’t be getting better at keeping you safe. (unless you install safety features.) With great (horse)power comes great responsibility. Remember that as you take to the streets in your new car.
If you ask yourself each of these questions as you evaluate your potential car modifications, we are confident that you will come away with the ultimate custom car. So stay safe and have fun; we’ll see you on the road.
About the author:
Chris Wells is the owner and co-founder of CT Performance, a mid-Michigan Aftermarket Auto Performance shop specializing in late-model GM upgrades.
