Thinking about giving your car a fresh look or a little extra bite? The aftermarket world is full of parts that let you change how a car looks, feels and performs without a factory visit. From sleek body kits to lowered springs, there’s a swap for almost any budget and style.
First, know the basics. "Aftermarket" simply means any part that isn’t made by the car’s original manufacturer. That includes everything from cheap vinyl wraps to high‑end carbon‑fiber hoods. Because the market is huge, it’s easy to get lost, so let’s break it down into the three most common upgrades: appearance, handling, and power.
A body kit can turn a plain sedan into a head‑turner. Most kits include a front bumper, side skirts, rear bumper and sometimes a spoiler. The big win? Better aerodynamics and a more aggressive stance. Before you buy, measure your car’s width and check if the kit adds extra over‑hang – you don’t want rubbing on speed bumps.
Other visual upgrades are cheaper but effective. Vinyl wraps protect paint and let you pick crazy colours without a permanent paint job. If you already have a wrap, learning how to wash it properly (see our "Wash a Wrapped Car" guide) keeps the shine for years.
Lowering springs are the go‑to for a deeper stance without swapping the whole suspension. They replace the stock springs and drop the ride height by about 1‑2 inches. The trade‑off is a firmer ride and a bit more road noise. If you drive daily, consider coilovers – they let you fine‑tune height and damping, but they cost more.
Wheel spacers are a quick way to give your wheels a wider track. They push the tires out, filling up the wheel well and making the car look wider. The downside? They change steering geometry and can stress wheel studs if not installed correctly. Always get an alignment after adding spacers, and check the bolts regularly.
When you drop the car, keep an eye on tire wear. Lowered geometry can cause the inside of the tread to wear faster. Rotating tires every 5‑6 000 km helps, and a proper alignment after any suspension change is a must.
Upgrading the exhaust is the fastest way to add a throaty growl. A custom exhaust can boost a few horsepower, cut weight and give your car a distinct sound. Prices vary by material – stainless steel costs more but lasts longer than mild steel.
LED headlights and taillights are another popular swap. They’re brighter and use less power than halogen bulbs, but you must check local laws. In some regions, certain LED colours (like purple) are illegal, and mismatched beam patterns can blind other drivers.
If you’re interested in tint, the darkest legal VLT (Visible Light Transmission) differs by state or country. Always verify the limit before the shop cuts the film – a fine is cheaper than re‑tinting.
Bottom line: The aftermarket gives you control over how your car looks, feels, and sounds. Start with one area that matters most to you, research fitment, and don’t skip professional installation or alignment when needed. Your ride will thank you, and you’ll enjoy the extra personality it brings.
Wondering if Duraflex is a solid option for car body kits? This article breaks down the real deal on quality, fitment, customer feedback, and what makes Duraflex kits popular with enthusiasts. You'll get honest pros, cons, and tips for buying and installing. If you're on the fence about going with Duraflex, this will clear things up fast.