As a car owner, there are few things more satisfying than pimping out your machine and feeling the power at every turn. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of cool car mods that are easy for any gearhead to install. But they can also help achieve a little extra flair and power. So, let’s gear up and get ready to make some modifications, from engine tuning to cool car interior mods.
This modification guide will cover engine tuning upgrades, including cold air intake, performance exhaust system, and turbocharging or supercharging. Additionally, we’ll cover modifications for enhancing handling. For example, suspension and brake system upgrades and installing performance tires and wheels. The possibilities are endless. So, without further ado, here’s your guide to cool car mods interior, exterior, and everything in between.
What Is a Car Mod?
Car mod is short for car modification. It refers to any alteration or customization made to a vehicle beyond its original factory specifications. Do you own a new, used car, or even one with a salvage title? No matter the answer, drivers often do some tinkering around it to enhance its performance, appearance, or functionality.
These modifications include simple aesthetic changes, such as custom paint jobs, and cool interior car mods. To more extensive modifications, such as engine upgrades, suspension enhancements, or installing aftermarket exhaust systems.
Mod 1: Engine Tuning
Engine tuning refers to the process of modifying and optimizing the performance of a vehicle’s engine. It involves making adjustments or installing aftermarket components to improve power, torque, fuel efficiency, and overall engine responsiveness.
Engine tuning can encompass various modifications. Including reprogramming the engine control unit (ECU) to adjust fuel and ignition timing. Upgrading intake and exhaust systems. Installing turbochargers or superchargers for increased air intake and optimizing engine airflow through modifications like porting and polishing. Some of these upgrades deserve their spot, so I’ll discuss them in more detail later on.
What are the Benefits of Engine Tuning?
By optimizing fuel delivery, ignition timing, and air intake, engine tuning allows for more efficient combustion, resulting in greater power output. Meaning increased horsepower and torque. Moreover, engine tuning can also enhance fuel efficiency by optimizing the air-to-fuel ratio, leading to better mileage and reduced fuel consumption.
Mod 2: Cold Air Intake
A cold air intake is a modification that replaces the stock air intake system with a new one. The one designed to draw cooler and denser air into the engine. One of the primary advantages of this upgrade is increased horsepower, as cooler and denser air allows for more efficient combustion.
Cold air intakes may vary in design and compatibility with different vehicle models. So, it’s crucial to choose a high-quality intake that is designed for your four-wheeler to ensure proper fitment and performance. There are several reputable brands known for producing high-quality cold air intake systems:
- K&N Engineering,
- AEM,
- Injen Technology,
- Volant,
- Mishimoto.
Mod 3: Performance Exhaust System
Like cold air intake, a performance exhaust system is an aftermarket modification that replaces the stock exhaust system in a vehicle. It is designed to improve the flow of exhaust gasses from the engine. Which can be very beneficial, especially in terms of horsepower and torque.
Another benefit of this particular modification is potential weight reduction. Some aftermarket exhaust systems are made from lightweight materials like stainless steel or titanium. This can contribute to improved handling and fuel efficiency. Here are some reputable exhaust system manufacturers you should consider:
- Borla,
- MagnaFlow,
- Flowmaster,
- Korsa,
- Akrapovič.
While looking through your options, consider not only the compatibility with the exact make and model of your vehicle but also the legal requirements. Not all aftermarket exhaust systems are street-legal or compliant with local noise regulations. So, it’s crucial to check and adhere to local laws when considering a performance exhaust system.
Mod 4: Suspension Upgrades
There are also aftermarket modifications made to a vehicle’s suspension system to enhance its performance, handling, and ride characteristics. Upgrading the suspension components, such as springs, shocks, sway bars, and control arms, can reduce body roll, increase grip, and provide better stability. You’ll enjoy driving, whether cruising along famous routes in the US or one of the cities with the worst drivers.
Additionally, suspension upgrades can enhance ride comfort by reducing vibrations, minimizing road noise, and offering better shock absorption. They can also allow for customization and adjustment of the vehicle’s ride height. Providing a more aggressive stance or accommodating different driving conditions. For example, if you’re interested in some off-road driving adventures, upgrading the suspension system on your four-wheeler is quite common.
What Are the Different Types of Suspension Upgrades?
Here’s an overview of the most popular suspension upgrades:
| Upgrade | Description | Benefits | Cost Range |
| Lowering Springs | Replacing stock springs with shorter springs | Improved handling and appearance | $150-$500 |
| Coilover Kit | Adjustable suspension system with coil springs | Customizable ride height and improved handling | $800-$3,000 |
| Strut Bars | Reinforced bars installed between suspension towers | Reduced chassis flex and improved handling | $50-$300 |
| Sway Bars | Upgraded anti-roll bars for reduced body roll | Enhanced stability and improved cornering | $100-$500 |
| Adjustable Dampers | Adjustable shock absorbers | Customizable ride comfort and handling | $400-$1,500 |
| Polyurethane Bushings | Replacing stock rubber bushings with polyurethane | Reduced suspension flex and improved responsiveness | $50-$200 |
Mod 5: Upgraded Braking System
A reliable braking system with high-quality components, such as brake pads, rotors, and calipers, ensures consistent and responsive braking performance. Which is of utmost importance for safety and better control of the vehicle. It allows for shorter stopping distances, especially during emergencies, which can be crucial for avoiding collisions.
Therefore, a well-maintained and properly functioning braking system should be considered a driver’s responsibility. Additionally, upgrading some components is a good way to ensure the optimal performance of the braking system. For example, I’ve upgraded my brakes with the PT Auto Warehouse Ceramic Disc Brake Pad Set. I can’t recommend this product enough. It’s a more reliable choice for various road and weather conditions.
Mod 6: Performance Tires and Wheels
Performance tires are designed with specialized tread patterns, softer rubber compounds, and advanced construction techniques. All with the purpose of providing better traction, cornering grip, and handling capabilities. Performance wheels are lighter and stronger than stock wheels, reducing unsprung weight and improving acceleration, braking, and overall agility.
Together, performance tires and wheels can enhance the vehicle’s grip, stability, and maneuverability, allowing drivers to push the limits with increased confidence and control. Here are some popular modification options for both tires and wheels:
- Upsizing tires – increasing the tire size from the stock specifications to wider or larger diameter tires can improve traction, handling, and cornering capabilities.
- Summer performance tires – switching to summer performance tires designed for warm weather conditions can provide better grip. Also, enhances performance during both dry and wet road conditions.
- High-performance tread patterns – opting for tires with aggressive tread patterns, such as asymmetrical or directional designs, can enhance traction and handling. Especially in high-performance driving situations.
- Alloy wheels – made from a blend of lightweight materials. These wheels offer improved handling, acceleration, and fuel efficiency,
- Flow-formed wheels – are lighter and stronger compared to traditional cast wheels. So, they offer improved strength-to-weight ratio, enhanced performance, and better heat dissipation.
- Forged wheels – known for their durability, precise fitment, and superior performance.
Mod 7: Aerodynamic Enhancements
Aerodynamic enhancements refer to modifications made to a vehicle’s exterior to improve its airflow and reduce drag. These enhancements are aimed at optimizing the vehicle’s aerodynamic efficiency, resulting in better performance, fuel efficiency, and stability.
Common aerodynamic upgrades include front splitters, rear spoilers, side skirts, and diffusers. These components are designed to manage airflow around the vehicle, reducing turbulence, minimizing lift, and increasing downforce. They should be carefully selected and integrated into the vehicle to maintain balance and stability.
Mod 8: ECU Remapping
I’ve already covered engine tuning – ECU remapping, also known as chip tuning, is only one way of optimizing the engine’s performance. It involves modifying the electronic control unit (ECU), which manages various aspects of the engine. Including fuel injection, ignition timing, turbo boost levels, and more.
APR, COBB Tuning, Dinan Engineering, ECUTek, and Eurocharged are well-known companies that offer reliable ECU tuning solutions. It’s crucial to research your options and choose a reputable provider specific to your vehicle’s make and model. So, look through customer reviews and recommendations to ensure a positive ECU remapping experience.
What are The Benefits of ECU Remapping?
One of the primary advantages of ECU remapping is increased engine performance. By optimizing fuel delivery, ignition timing, and other engine parameters, ECU remapping can unlock additional horsepower and torque. Resulting in improved acceleration and overall power output.
Mod 9: Nitrous Oxide System
A nitrous oxide system (NOS) is a popular aftermarket modification used to increase engine power and performance. The system entails injecting nitrous oxide into the engine’s combustion chamber. This chemical compound acts as an oxygen-rich oxidizer. Allowing more fuel to burn, resulting in a significant power boost.
Nitrous oxide systems are available in various configurations, including wet and dry systems. Wet systems inject both nitrous oxide and additional fuel, while dry systems introduce only nitrous oxide, relying on the existing fuel supply. Proper installation and tuning are essential to ensure the system is used safely and effectively. And it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and local regulations.
Mod 10: Forced Induction (Turbocharging or Supercharging)
Forced induction, whether through turbocharging or supercharging, is another popular method of increasing engine performance. By compressing and forcing more air into the combustion chamber. These forced induction systems offer significant performance gains, delivering improved acceleration and overall engine output.
What Is the Difference Between Turbocharging and Supercharging?
Turbocharging utilizes exhaust gas energy to power a turbine, which drives a compressor to compress the incoming air. This compressed air is then supplied to the engine, increasing power and torque.
Supercharging, on the other hand, uses a belt-driven compressor to force more air into the engine. Both turbocharging and supercharging effectively increase the air-fuel mixture, allowing for more efficient combustion and generating higher levels of power.
Utilize Cool Car Moods and Create an Unforgettable Four-Wheeler
Whether you’re looking for a few simple or more significant fixes to your four-wheeler, I hope that this list gives you some valuable ideas on how to create a truly unique ride. Not only do these modifications help enhance performance. But they will help your car stand apart from the rest. I wish you luck in creating the ultimate driving experience and looking forward to seeing your sweet ride on the road!
Frequently Asked Questions About Cool Car Mods
What Should Be My First Mod?
The first mod will depend on your goals and preferences, but popular choices include improving the air intake or upgrading the exhaust system.
What Add-Ons Make a Car Faster?
Performance upgrades like turbocharging, supercharging, ECU tuning, and lightweight wheels can significantly increase a car’s speed and acceleration.
What Mod Makes a Car Loud?
Installing an aftermarket exhaust system, particularly one with larger diameter pipes or performance mufflers, can make a car louder.
How to Pimp My Car?
To pimp your car, you can consider adding custom paint or vinyl wraps, installing unique wheels, upgrading the interior with luxurious features, and adding visual enhancements like body kits or spoilers.
Do Mods Affect Car Value?
Modifications can impact the car’s value. While some mods may increase value for specific buyers, extensive or poorly executed modifications could decrease its overall value. It’s important to consider the target market and ensure the mods are done professionally and with care.
