Installation Guides for Car Enthusiasts

If you love tweaking your ride, the biggest barrier is often the install. Whether you’re fitting wheel spacers, dropping springs, or applying a new tint, the right steps save time and keep things safe. Below you’ll get clear, no‑fluff instructions that work on most cars, plus the tools you’ll need and the common pitfalls to avoid.

Basic Tools Every Installer Should Own

Before you open any box, make sure you have a solid set of basics:

  • Torque wrench – most bolts need a specific tightness to avoid damage.
  • Socket set with deep sockets – helps reach bolts under the hub or splash guard.
  • Jack and jack stands – a sturdy lift keeps the car level and the wheels off the ground.
  • Panel‑removal tools – plastic pry tools protect trim when you need to access hidden bolts.
  • Safety glasses and gloves – protect your eyes and hands while you work.

Having these on hand means you won’t need to stop halfway and run to the shop.

Step‑by‑Step: Installing Wheel Spacers

Wheel spacers are a quick way to widen the track and give your car a more aggressive stance. Follow these steps to install them correctly:

  1. Park on a flat surface, engage the handbrake, and chock the opposite wheels.
  2. Loosen the lug nuts of the wheel you’re working on while the car is still on the ground.
  3. Raise the car with a jack, then support it on a jack stand. Remove the wheel.
  4. Clean the hub surface – any dirt can cause vibration later.
  5. Place the spacer onto the hub, align the bolt holes, and hand‑tighten the lug nuts.
  6. Lower the car, then use a torque wrench to tighten the nuts to the manufacturer’s specification (usually 80–100 Nm).
  7. Repeat on the other side and double‑check all torque values after a short test drive.

Most installers wonder whether an alignment is needed after spacers. In practice, you’ll notice a change in steering feel, so a professional alignment within 100 km is advised to keep tire wear even.

Other Common Installations

Lowering Springs: Swap the stock springs with the new set, making sure the car is level. Use a spring compressor if the springs are under tension. Tighten all suspension bolts to spec, then check ride height with a tape measure. A quick bounce test will reveal if the springs are seated properly.

Body Kit Components: Start with the front bumper. Clip the new bumper onto the existing brackets, then secure with the supplied screws. Align the side skirts by sliding them into the lower rocker panels; use a pry tool to avoid scratching the paint. Finish with the rear spoiler, making sure the mounting holes line up with the factory bolts.

Window Tint: Clean the glass inside and out, then spray a thin coat of soapy water. Peel the tint from its backing, apply it to the glass, and use a squeegee to push out bubbles. Let it cure for at least 24 hours before rolling the windows down. Patience here avoids peeling later.

Every install shares a common theme: take your time, double‑check torque settings, and test the result before calling it done. Skipping a step can lead to uneven wear, unsafe handling, or costly re‑work.

Ready to start? Grab your tools, pick a project, and follow the steps above. With a little care, you’ll have your car looking and feeling exactly how you want – without a trip to the garage.

Wheels and Spacers

Wheel Spacers: Should You Install Them on All 4 Wheels?

Wheel Spacers: Should You Install Them on All 4 Wheels?

Thinking about putting spacers on all four wheels? This article lays out the nuts and bolts of whether or not you really need spacers on every wheel. Know the reasons why someone might make this call and the practical effects it has on handling and looks. You'll also find out what can go wrong if things aren’t set up right. Get clear tips, no jargon or industry hype.