What You Need to Know to Trick Out Your Car

Like so many of us, you may be have inspired by a movie such as The Fast and The Furious, or television shows such as Pimp My Ride and Monster Garage to trick out your ride, but don't know where to begin. There is a lot to know and one of those things is the sheer amount of money it takes to add all those bells and whistles. Before you sink that kind of dough into it, you need to make sure it will work with your vehicle and existing equipment; that it will be compatible with your planned additions; and that it is legal in your area.

Legalese
If you want your vehicle to be street-legal, it is critical that you find out what your state's vehicle codes are before you start making changes. Also, make sure your auto insurance company is aware of all your enhancements so you have the proper coverage should anything happen. Taking photos of everything will help you immensely if you ever have to file a claim with them. Make sure you have a representative from your insurance agency take photos as well, for their records.

Warranties
Some changes and additions to your vehicle and equipment may make your warranties null and void. Be sure to check the Magnusson-Moss Warranty Act to see how this protection for after-market additions will affect you and your specific warranties.

Too Much Power
Having more power is a good thing, right? Wrong. Your specific vehicle and equipment may not be able to handle the increased power you add to your ride. Be sure you find out the tolerances each has for increased power and then keep your performance-enhancing power additions within those limits.

Conflicts
This brings us to the conflicts you may run into when trying to install new features. Be sure before you pay out the cash, that what you are buying is compatible with what you already have and will be compatible with what you plan on adding in the future. If you have to have it, find out how you can resolve the conflicts, and be prepared to shell out a lot more money. Be sure always to compare the equipment measurements with the space available for installation, as well.

The Good Stuff
So how do you know what your options are? Check out this glossary at Do-It-Yourself Network. It explains a lot of the lingo, and additions which can be made. Movies and their bonus features can give you more ideas; as can attending car shows. Talking to people who have tricked out cars is another great way to get tips, tricks, and find out more information.

There are many ways to trick out your ride from performance-enhancing additions, to body changes, to colors and graphics, and more. Where to put your focus first depends upon what statement you want to make, what your budget is, and what you want your end result to be. Some things will naturally need to be installed in a certain order. Creating a master plan and doing your homework first will save you a tremendous amount of money, time, and frustration.