Whether you're upgrading a new ride or breathing new life into an old one, getting more performance out of your car or truck is what every enthusiast dreams about. Fortunately, there are easy ways for a DIYer to add more power and handling to their vehicle.
These DIY weekend projects can deliver tangible gains.
Cold Air Intake and Performance Exhaust
Like an elite athlete, an engine needs to breathe well to produce peak power. Replacing your car's standard airbox with a larger and more direct cold air intake and air filter can make a big difference. This will funnel a greater volume of cooler air into the engine, which is denser in oxygen, yielding a noticeable increase in horsepower and torque. As a bonus, you also get better throttle response and a more pronounced intake sound.
At the other end of the car, a performance exhaust system will allow gases to flow out more freely. Most cars come from the factory with somewhat restrictive pipes, by upgrading to a performance exhaust you will reduce back pressure. The result is a more powerful engine, complemented by a deeper, more robust exhaust note. The combination of cold air intake and performance exhaust will bring a smile to your face every time you mash the go pedal.
Better Brakes
When adding power to your vehicle, it's always a good idea to add stopping power, too. High-quality brake components – pads, rotors and calipers – play a crucial role here, whether you’re cruising along a backroad or exploring the limits at the track.
Start by swapping your stock brake pads to high-performance units. These are engineered to handle higher temperatures and the larger rotors will also dissipate heat more efficiently. Upgrading to slotted or drilled units will help clear brake dust and gases, as well. The result is a larger and cleaner surface for your pads to bite into.
For the ultimate braking upgrade, throw in some performance calipers for more clamping force. This will translate to even quicker and more efficient stops, especially from high speeds.
Springs, Shocks and Sway Bars
Next, improve your car's cornering abilities with some simple suspension upgrades. Not only will this make your vehicle more nimble in the twisties, it can give it a lower, more athletic stance.
Lowering springs bring your car's center of gravity closer to the ground, reducing body roll and giving it a more planted feel. Upgrading to performance shocks and struts at the same time complements this by reducing unwanted suspension movement, keeping your tires firmly connected to the pavement.
To further reduce body roll, you can swap in a stiffer set of sway bars. Sway bars come in various stiffnesses depending on the application and some are adjustable. Also known as stabilizer bars or anti-roll bars, they connect the left and right sides of your suspension to improve stability during cornering.
Grippier Tires
None of these changes will matter much if your vehicle is riding on low-quality rubber. As your only point of contact with the road, tires play a pivotal role in acceleration, braking and cornering.
Our Tinker experts recommend you spring for a set of high-performance tires in the largest size your current wheels will accommodate. Online stores like TireRack.com offer a wide selection for most vehicles, as well as thorough testing and ratings. Look for "performance" or "summer" options with a speed rating of V (up to 149 mph) or higher.
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