SUVs and trucks can be a little intimidating to mod for amateur mechanics, given their size. However, with only a little know-how, there is plenty even newcomers can do to customize their vehicle. Given their size, SUVs can also be particularly tantalizing from a modding perspective. Here are just a few simple jobs you can have a go with yourself.
Upgraded Steering
If you like to take your SUV off-road, you will naturally know how important the quality of your steering is. It is therefore surprising that such vehicles are known to have relatively poor handling in comparison to other cars on the market, as a result of their added weight. And while this may not be that observable on most roads, it can be very apparent when you need to try to take corners more quickly.
A popular mod for off-roaders then is to replace the SUV’s standard steering column with an aftermarket alternative that offers more responsive steering. This is also surprisingly affordable and simple to do. In fact, aftermarket steering systems designed specifically for your car model can easily be installed in as little as one afternoon. However, universal steering columns can require some added know-how to install correctly.
Exhaust Systems
Exhaust systems are an ever-popular option for first-time car modding. This is because they are both inexpensive and fairly simple to install. High-performance aftermarket exhaust systems also seriously improve the driving quality of your SUV, as they remove the power restrictions with your vehicle, and thus free up additional horsepower.
Like with steering columns, exhaust systems are easier to install when you purchase aftermarket systems designed specifically for your make of car. For example, simply searching for 2021 Ford Bronco exhaust systems will show you plenty of easy-to-install options for your vehicle.
Roll Cages
SUVs are often chosen for either their off-roading ability or their safety features. If this was why you picked one up, you may therefore seriously consider installing a roll cage on your vehicle. Normally made out of steel tubing, roll cages are designed to absorb the impact of collisions and keep the driving cabin intact in the event of car accidents. Traditionally, roll cages required a lot of involvement to build. But fortunately, today, you can easily buy ready-made roll cage kits for DIY installation.
Sound Systems
Speaker systems can be one of the areas car manufacturers seek to save money on. They can therefore often have a tinny sound quality or be easily damaged. They are thus also a popular replacement option for modders.
Another benefit of upgrading your SUV’s speaker system is that you can do so in stages, based on your expertise and how much you want to spend. First off, you can easily replace your speakers with an aftermarket system that has the same shape as your original speakers. Then, if you want to go further, you can add an amplifier to provide additional power to your speakers or boost the bass with a subwoofer.
Custom Flooring
All SUV’s come with a carpeting between seats in the cargo space. If you drive with your seats down because you haul things around or have a dog, you can line the floor with a custom cargo liner that will protect every inch of the carpet. We recommend a custom company like Ruff Rugs so if you have a Honda CRV, they make custom CRV cargo liner specifically for that vehicle.
Dash camera
Most newer vehicles come fitted with dash cameras as standard, but if your SUV is a few years old at this point, you may want to try installing one yourself. Dash cameras, or backup cameras, refer to video cameras that show you a feed of the rear of the car. They can thus be helpful when you’re reversing or parking. They can also be helpful when making an insurance claim since they can help you prove you weren’t at fault in. a car accident. Additionally, since they have only become standard recently, aftermarket cameras are widely available and easy to set up.
Seating
When taking your SUV off-road, you may find that you move around in your seat more often than you’d like. This may not seem like a major issue, but can actually be quite dangerous if it happens unexpectedly when you’re in a hazardous scenario. Aftermarket high-back seats can therefore be a good modding option for both performance and safety reasons. If you enjoy thrill-seeking in your SUV, you may want to opt for putting in a four-point harness too, to make your seat extra secure.
Spark Plugs
Spark plugs are used to ignite the fuel in your SUV’s engine. Therefore, if you notice that your vehicle isn’t getting as much power as usual, it may be time to replace them. How regularly you need to do this should be referenced in the owner’s manual for your car, but this is usually around 100,000 miles. Since this involves going under your hood, this job is a little more involved than others on this list. However, because of this, it can be a great way of getting into trying out more extensive mods.
