We all know that our cars are an expression of ourselves. But, let’s be honest, we’re probably not as high-performing as we wish we were. Whether it’s a lack of time in the gym or too many reruns of The Office coupled with bags of pork rinds, we’re not exactly superhuman.
Luckily, it’s a lot easier to turn our cars into performance machines. Instead of cutting out beer and chips to drop a few pounds, you can purchase aftermarket car parts that boost your car’s power output and capabilities instantly. In this guide, we’ll cover the essential aftermarket parts you should consider, and we’ll keep the fitness advice out of it.
Types of Aftermarket Car Parts
There are a lot of different types of aftermarket car parts to consider, but they’re mostly broken down into three main categories: parts that improve performance, parts that replace existing parts, and accessories.
Performance Parts
Performance parts are designed to improve your vehicle’s overall power, speed, and handling. These components may include turbochargers, cold air intakes, or upgraded exhaust systems, all of which increase your vehicle’s engine output and overall performance. Other performance parts to consider include suspension parts to improve the vehicle’s handling, brakes to improve its responsiveness, and computer upgrades and flashes that reprogram the engine’s air-fuel ratios and timing to boost performance.
Replacement Parts
These are the parts you need to replace when your car’s existing components wear out or get damaged. Spark plugs, air filters, and brake pads are just a few examples of replacement parts that can improve the efficiency and safety of your vehicle. Aftermarket replacement parts might also include body parts that can replace stock panels that are damaged in an accident.
Accessories
Aftermarket accessories focus on adding style and functionality to your vehicle. These can include custom wheels, interior mods, and performance accessories like upgraded audio systems, sport pedals, aerodynamics, and spoilers.
Why Choose Aftermarket Parts?
There are a lot of great reasons why car enthusiasts might choose aftermarket parts over stock parts. The main reason is probably that they provide an excellent opportunity for customization. With a wide range of aftermarket parts available, enthusiasts can personalize their vehicles to match their style or performance goals.
Also, aftermarket parts can deliver better value for money. Not only are they typically less expensive than OEM parts, but they can also improve your vehicle’s performance and reliability. Unlike stock parts, which are mass-produced for a wide variety of vehicles, aftermarket parts allow you to select components that are engineered to boost your specific vehicle’s capabilities. However, there are plenty of low-quality aftermarket parts on the market too, so it’s important to do your research.
Aftermarket Brands
Choosing aftermarket parts based on brands can be difficult. Many manufacturers produce parts for specific types of vehicles, meaning no matter how much you admire their parts and performance gains, if you don’t own a compatible car, that brand’s not for you.
Vivid Racing offers a wide variety of aftermarket parts for a range of different vehicles and manufacturers. We also carry products from other trusted brands, helping you feel confident about your purchase.
Key Components to Upgrade for Maximum Performance
When upgrading your vehicle with aftermarket parts, it’s essential to focus on the components that will make the biggest impact on performance.
Power Upgrades
The engine is the powerplant of your vehicle, so upgrading it with the right performance parts can provide significant benefits. Upgrading your spark plugs or swapping out the air filter for a high-performance one can improve fuel efficiency and boost performance and overall engine health. These parts work together to enhance airflow, combustion, and spark efficiency, improving power output.
But for major engine upgrades with big power payoffs, consider major upgrades. This can include turbocharger kits or upgrades, superchargers, exhaust upgrades, and more. Also, engine internals such as performance camshafts, high-compression cylinder heads, or low-compression pistons coupled with plenty of boost can offer serious power increases.
One other power upgrade to consider along with these parts or even on its own is a flash. A flash replaces your vehicle’s current computer programming, advancing timing and adjusting fuel ratios to create more power. For boosted cars, a flash can make it feel like an entirely different vehicle for just a few hundred dollars.
Wheels and Tires
It doesn’t matter how much power your car makes if it can’t connect it to the ground. Stock wheels and tires are typically fine, but they’re not designed for performance, making them the perfect area for an upgrade.
Stickier, high-performance tires help cars maintain their grip. This can be during a launch or hard cornering, and this upgrade can make a huge difference in the car’s performance without any other modifications.
Performance aftermarket wheels can also make a significant difference in the way your vehicle performs. Lighter wheels have less inertia, making it easier for the transmission and engine to drive them, while also making it easier for the brakes to stop them.
Suspension and Brakes
Aftermarket suspension is a great way to change your vehicle’s entire dynamics. Racing springs and struts or full coilover systems can lower the vehicle’s ride height, reducing body roll during cornering or excessive weight transfer when accelerating or braking. Suspension upgrades can make the car livelier and feel lighter.
Braking performance increases the control the driver has over the vehicle. Upgrading brake pads and rotors to lightweight racing models improve brake feel and responsiveness while keeping them cooler during spirited driving for reduced brake fade. Big brake kits increase the surface area, offering even more stopping power.
Weight Reduction and Aerodynamics
Another way you can improve your vehicle’s performance is by reducing its weight with aftermarket car parts. This might include racing seats, carbon fiber body panels, or simply lightweight performance parts.
Also consider aerodynamics. High-performance vehicles might benefit from a functional spoiler in the rear or splitter in the front to help keep the vehicle planted to the road at all times.
How to Choose the Right Aftermarket Parts for Your Vehicle
Selecting the right aftermarket parts can be a daunting task. You want to balance the money you spend against the performance you can expect. It’s also crucial to ensure compatibility and quality. Here are some tips for making the right choice:
- Compatibility: Make sure the aftermarket parts you choose are compatible with your vehicle. Most parts are designed specifically for certain models, so it’s important to pick components that fit your car, truck, or other vehicles.
- Function: When purchasing performance parts, look for components that enhance the function of your vehicle, whether that’s improving speed, handling, or fuel efficiency.
- Reviews: Always read reviews to gauge the quality and performance of parts. This can help you avoid low-quality products and make an informed decision.
- Professional Help: If you’re unsure about the installation or compatibility of certain parts, don’t hesitate to consult a professional mechanic with experience in performance aftermarket car parts.
Where to Buy Aftermarket Parts
Aftermarket parts are widely available both online and at local auto shops (that’s part of the beauty of these upgrades). Here are some key considerations:
- Online Stores: Online retailers often offer competitive prices and a wider selection of aftermarket parts. Many websites also offer free shipping on certain products, making it easier and cheaper to purchase parts. Vivid Racing offers a massive selection of quality aftermarket car parts for a wide range of cars, trucks, and SUVs.
- Local Performance Shops: For those who prefer to inspect products in person, local shops may have the parts you need. However, there aren’t a lot of these shops around and their in-store selection is usually quite limited. Online options typically provide better prices and convenience.
- Tools and Installation: Some parts require tools or professional installation. Make sure you have the necessary equipment or seek professional help if the installation is complex.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Aftermarket Car Parts
To ensure you get the most out of your aftermarket parts, avoid these common mistakes:
- Compatibility Issues: Always ensure the part you’re purchasing is compatible with your vehicle.
- Overlooking Quality: Don’t just choose parts based on price. Focus on quality to ensure better performance and durability.
- Ignoring Professional Installation: Some parts, especially those related to the engine or transmission, may require professional installation to ensure proper functioning.
Make Vivid Racing Your Trusted Aftermarket Car Parts Source
At Vivid Racing, we have almost 25 years of experience supplying the right aftermarket car parts for car enthusiasts all over the world. We carry a wide range of performance parts designed for almost any enthusiast vehicle you can think of. If you’re ready to upgrade your vehicle, check out Vivid Racing’s performance aftermarket car parts selection today.
