How to Customize an SUV

BMW X5 SUV

SUV's have gone from being vehicles intended for practical purposes to status symbols. And just as for sports cars and muscle cars, a huge aftermarket exists that serves the needs of enthusiasts who want to customize their SUV. From a simple set of wheels to a completely remodeled interior, many choices are available. Custom SUVs are usually modified around aesthetic and comfort upgrades, with less emphasis on performance.

Things You'll Need

• Socket set
• Specialty automotive tools

Instructions

1. Replace the wheels. Many SUVs come with plain wheels and in some cases are even fitted with steel wheels that are visually too small for a vehicle as large as an SUV. Upgrading to a larger set of aftermarket wheels and tires is one of the most common methods of customizing an SUV. Companies such as the Tire Rack sell wheel and tire packages online and you can also shop at local auto parts stores.

2. Lower the suspension. Lowering the suspension on an SUV may seem counterintuitive since one of the purposes of an SUV's high ride is to allow it to be driven off road. However, for owners--and there are many--who don't take their SUVs off road, giving their vehicle a ground-hugging stance is another common modification. This can be accomplished with either conventional lowering springs and performance shocks, such as the kind from Bell Tech, or with something more radical, such as an airbag suspension.

3. Custom paint the exterior. Because an SUV has a larger exterior, having it painted is neither easy nor cheap, but it is an option that can really set your truck apart. A custom paint job is almost a necessity if you are planning on entering your vehicle in any type of car show. This should be done by a professional paint-and-body shop, which will offer many options for you to choose from. The only limiting factor will be your pocket book. A high-quality automotive paint job can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000 or more.

4. Install a body kit or some exterior accessories. If you are having your SUV custom painted, this is the perfect occasion to install some exterior additions like a deeper front bumper or spoiler, side skirts and a rear valance. Round out the changes with a billet front grill and some fog lights.

5. Upgrade the interior. There are many different approaches to take. Start by installing some interior trim pieces made from billet or even carbon fiber. These can replace the shift knob, emergency brake handle and foot pedals. Extensive trim kits that cover areas of the dash and center console, door panels and other areas of the interior are available. If you don't like the original seats, then pick up a set of aftermarket seats from a company such as Suburban Seats. And of course don't forget the electronics, another often modified aspect of SUVs. Replace the (probably) lame original stereo with a high-end aftermarket unit and then install a DVD player and TV for the occupants of the rear seats to pass the time.

References

• Truckin Magazine

Resources

• The Tire Rack
• Stylin Trucks Accessories
• Suburban Seats