These Mods Make Your Car Perform Worse
Most of us want our cars to stand out from the crowd. After all, cars cost a fortune - it’s only normal to want to turn heads when you drive by. However, some popular ‘performance mods’ can actually do more damage than good. Let’s take a closer look at 11 performance mods that make your vehicle so much worse.
Cutting Suspension Springs
An easy way to improve the speed of a car is to lower its ride height. This can be achieved by cutting the suspension springs. Though simple to do, this practice is also dangerous and impractical, as it will drastically affect the overall feel and handling of the car.
Loud Exhaust Muffler
The installation of an effective exhaust system can drastically add to the car's overall horsepower. However, add-on mufflers that do nothing but make the car sound louder can actually hinder its overall performance.
Massive Rear Spoiler
While some people may like the look of oversized rear spoilers, they certainly don’t benefit the car in terms of performance. When a spoiler is oversized, it adds weight to the back of the car, pushing it down. This reduces the aerodynamics of the vehicle, ultimately making it slower.
Fender Widening
It’s important to remember that most car manufacturers design cars in a specific way in order to ensure optimal aerodynamics and performance. By widening the fender, you mess with these measurements and risk lowering the car's overall value due to decreased aerodynamics.
Oversized Rims and Tires
If done properly, installing oversized rims and tires can drastically improve the overall appearance and handling of a car. However, if done improperly, you risk degrading the overall performance and ride quality of the vehicle.
Hood Vents
Hood vents are designed to keep the engine temperature down by providing additional airflow. If you choose to do it yourself, though, you run the risk of water or debris reaching the engine, which can cause significant damage.
Speed Holes
Speed holes are designed to increase a car's speed and acceleration. However, this is a flawed concept and, if done improperly, can cause significant performance issues.
Catalytic Converter Removal
Not only is removing the catalytic converter illegal, but it is also detrimental to the car's performance. It results in an unbalanced fuel burn, leading to low power and a poor fuel economy.
Short Ram Intake
Generally, it is believed that a cold air intake is better for the car. Short ram intakes are cheaper, but they also draw in hot air, which is detrimental to fuel oxidation and combustion.
Body Kit
Professionally built body kits can massively improve the overall performance of any car. Cheap kits, on the other hand, add weight and wind resistance, which increases fuel consumption, deteriorates its condition, and ultimately affects its mileage capacity.
Blow-Off Valves
While the distinctive sound of a blow-off valve may suggest serious power, it actually hurts the car's overall drivability. It results in more lag and slower response times.
