Car Performance Parts: Keep drivers safe on the road

For many car owners, performance parts as modifications are one way to improve a vehicle’s fuel efficiency and safety on the road. Whether they are brand new or used car parts, a car’s performance can be improved quickly and conveniently with these additions.

However, modern cars are developed to meet emission and fuel efficiency standards and adding aftermarket performance parts may affect a car’s overall performance. Some experts believe keeping a vehicle in its stock condition is highly recommended. Enhancing a car’s factory components may seem extreme but adding performance parts could improve the drive.

For car owners who are having second thoughts on installing these parts, here are some examples of car performance parts which help improve safety on the road:

Tyres

Tyres are the most essential and also most neglected part of a vehicle. Tyres are designed to absorb impact from road bumps as well as provide traction when accelerating, turning corners and braking. Every car owner needs to take good care of their tyres. Checking air pressure and tread wear is the first step in keeping them in top condition. If a car has more passengers or luggage, it should be adjusted accordingly. Rotating tyres is also recommended to increase their life span.

Many people choose to get larger tyres for their vehicle. Plus size tyres should be partnered with alloy wheels. They can help with braking, road handling and turning. However, bigger tyres means extra weight and this may affect a car’s suspension and stability. Assessing driving behaviour is important when shopping for a new set of tyres.

Wheels

Performance rims or alloy wheels are not just used for show - they can also help improve a car’s handling. Aftermarket alloy wheels are lighter than stock wheels. Since they are lighter, it decreases the suspension’s load which helps it absorb road bumps effectively. Alloy wheels also help decrease a car’s rotating mass giving it better road traction. Other benefits include better fuel economy, increased acceleration and improved braking power.

Car seats

Factory car seats are comfortable, but that’s about it. A set of racing-styled car seats offer better support and ergonomics while driving. These seats are designed to support the driver’s body which allows him or her to drive effectively. It may get a bit uncomfortable especially when driving at higher speeds. Many modern racing seats also come with side airbags and optional heating.

Cold-Air intake

Replacing a vehicle’s stock air box with a cold-air intake is a popular modification amongst drivers. Instead of restricting air from entering the engine, the cold-air intake allows air to flow freely into the engine. The intake allows the engine to breathe freely at higher speeds. Some aftermarket intakes are built with seals which close the engine bay from the air filter. Cold-air intake requires periodic maintenance and it might create some noise under the hood.

CAT-Back exhaust

Exhaust upgrades are another popular modification. If a car’s intake is upgraded, the exhaust system should also be changed. An upgraded exhaust helps an engine perform better compared to a stock exhaust. Most drivers observed a significant improvement in their vehicle’s fuel consumption when they installed this mod. Previous cat-back exhaust systems were noisy but modern cat-backs include better mufflers and resonators to offer lower volumes and higher flows. Exhaust systems vary in price and it is best to research before installing one.

Ignition cables & spark plugs

Ignition cables act as electric conduits from the ignition coil to the spark plugs. Faulty ignition cables may cause hard starting or the engine might not turn at all. They can also affect an engine’s mileage or the car might stall while driving. Inspecting these cables are part of a car’s preventative maintenance. These cables should be fitted properly to avoid engine misfire. Replacing them with high-tension wires is also good as it delivers more power to the spark plugs. They can also help protect the car’s engine and catalytic converter.

Aside from the ignition cables, spark plugs are also prone to wear and tear. Most of their conductive elements wear over time and they need to be replaced. Performance spark plugs keep a car’s engine at peak performance. These decrease exhaust emissions while increasing engine power. In addition, they also protect the cat converter from failing. Unburnt gasoline can damage the core of a car’s catalytic converter.

Upgrading a car’s existing parts is a great idea – as long as it does not affect its warranty. Always exercise prudence when adding performance parts to a car or ask expert advice. The Panel House blog has lots of tips and tricks to get you started so check it out today!