Modifications

This section provides no information about basic car maintenance but instead varying modifications that can be done to cars for performance purposes, with no particular order. This is where car owners can really customize things based on their taste, budget, and how the car will be used.

Bolt-Ons

“Bolt-on” is a term used by car enthusiasts that refers to basic modifications done to the car, hence the name. These modifications generally include the intake, header, and exhaust. Depending on your car’s design, you can quite literally take off the original part and simply “bolt-on” an aftermarket part. These three modifications in unison let the engine “breathe” with less restriction. These 3 modifications pair best with a professional tune and even then, it will generally provide minimal horsepower gains depending on the engine.

Boost

Boost, also known as forced induction, is a way to force more air into the engine to produce bigger horsepower numbers. This is done by adding a supercharger or turbocharger. Superchargers spin an internal turbine using the force of the serpentine belt. In contrast, a turbocharger recycles exhaust pressure that also spins a turbine. It’s important to research both methods of boosting to ensure installing the correct supporting mods and getting your desired power output. Installing a supercharger or turbocharger alone can and will cause excessive wear to internal parts of the engine.

Suspension

There are many parts to suspension but the main part that will give you the biggest difference in performance ride quality are coilovers. Coilovers come in various levels of adjustability and because of that, also have varying price levels. They can range from a few hundred bucks to a few thousand dollars. Their main purpose is to reduce body roll and keep your car leveled during hard acceleration/deceleration or hard cornering. Ride height is also adjusted using coilovers.

Wheels

We’ll use the term “wheel” when rims and tires are paired together. Rims offer your car a different look from stock and can be compared to wearing a different pair of shoes. Rims are offered in many, many different design patterns and specs. Specs are the dimensions that ensure the rims will fit properly and to the car owner’s taste. You could have two of the same rims but they won’t look or perform their best if their specs are incorrect so it’s crucial to do research. Fitment Industries is a site that offers in-depth information and photos of how certain wheels look on your car.  Tires also come in many sizes and many different tread patterns that are meant for various weather conditions. Tires also have differing compounds depending on how they will be used. Such as softer tires for more grip or harder tires for longer endurance. Your buying decision should then be decided based on how the car will be used and what your budget is.