The Body Kit: Low, Sleek and Aggressive

Giving your ride a low-slung, aggressive stance is the best way to be noticed on the street.  How can you do that without dropping your suspension for asphalt-grinding lowness?  Body kits are the best way to make your car look lower, without actually dropping it flat on the blacktop.  What are body kits?  Chances are you've seen them around town.  They are custom kits designed to make your ride look low, provide cleaner lines and add an aggressive stance to almost any ride, from a Kia to an Acura.

Technically, a body kit is a bunch of plastic, fiberglass or carbon fiber that has been shaped into extensions and panel replacements for your car.  Usually, these kits are vehicle specific, meaning they are custom made to fit the exact dimensions of your specific vehicle.  Trying to use a kit designed for a different vehicle usually will not work, unless you're extremely talented with Bondo and a saw. Buying a kit for your vehicle is the only way that you can actually achieve the seamless look that you want.

What do body kits include?  The answer to that question varies by manufacturer, as well as by kit type.  Most kits have at least front and rear bumper lips and side panels.  Kits that are more expensive come with replacement bumpers, wing spoilers and even new hoods.  How custom you go with your ride is up to you and the contents of your wallet.

How do body kits work?  Most kits simply attach to, or replace OEM panes.  For instance, bumper lips attach to your front and rear bumpers and add length, making your car look lower to the ground.  You'll also hear these called bumper skirts in some circles.  Side panels attach to your OEM rocker panels and can drop your car by several inches.  Many body kits also include replacement grills or overly grills.  These change the look of your stock grill and can add a great dimension to your ride.

How easy are body kits to install?  The answer to that question will depend on the body kit you purchase.  Most kits are easy enough to install at home, provided you have access to the right tools.  Others may require cutting and trimming; a body shop is the best place to have these installed.  Extensive kits are available that will require expert installation, such as replacement hoods.  Carbon fiber hoods are a hot way to transform the look of your ride, but the average car owner may find them difficult to install.

After you have chosen the body kit you want, take a look at how difficult it's going to be to install.  If you have the knowledge and tools, installing the kit yourself will save you some money.  However, if you lack the right tools and skill, your modifications can actually make your ride look worse, rather than better.  In this case, professional installation is the only option and the best way to ensure the sleek look that you want.