Modified Car - Common Upgrades

Common Upgrades

For associated article see: Car_tuning#Areas_of_modification

A modified car consist of any of the components associated with car tuning, however common upgrades include replacing the standard factory issue wheels with aftermarket alloy wheels, usually of a larger diameter to improve the aesthetics; lowering the suspension of the car to give it a more aerodynamic, stable look by replacing the springs (often in conjunction with shock absorbers) or torsion bars; replacing the existing exhaust system with one with less gas-flow restriction, louder and deeper sound and often small improvements in performance (due to exhaust gas-flow rate). Other common upgrades include the installation of a short shifter as well as an aftermarket shift knob, or a performance oriented Weighted Gear Knob. Common non-mechanical upgrades include a cars audio system; though not performance oriented, are nevertheless a very common-place modification. This includes upgrading the head unit itself, and upgrading and/or installing additional speakers.

Significant modification to a car could involve adding a fiberglass body kit to improve the aesthetics, a complete respray to a more unusual, distinctive and noticeable colour and finish, increasing the engine performance with ugraded components such as a high-flow air filter, additional components such as turbocharger kit, as well as more permanent modifications like port and polish.

Traditional customizing methods, more common when modifying classic cars to create cars such as Hot rods, include roof chops, two door stretches, suicide doors, channeling and lights, trim and sheet metal from another car. Sectioning is also used sometimes.