In this blog, we’ll cover the most common types of car modifications and how they influence the service frequency, part wear, and overall maintenance of your vehicle.
Upgrades like turbochargers, superchargers, remapped ECUs, or cold air intakes increase horsepower but also place extra stress on your engine. With greater performance comes the need for frequent engine checks, oil changes, and cooling system maintenance.
Impact on maintenance:
More frequent engine oil changes
Increased wear on spark plugs and fuel systems
Higher chances of overheating, requiring regular coolant checks
Need for high-performance oils and fluids
Service Tip: Vehicles with performance mods should have shorter maintenance intervals and use only high-quality synthetic engine oil.
Aftermarket exhaust systems are popular for their aggressive sound and improved exhaust flow. However, poorly installed or non-compliant systems may increase engine back pressure or cause emission-related issues.
Impact on maintenance:
Risk of damage to catalytic converters and oxygen sensors
Need for more frequent emissions testing and exhaust inspection
Increased underbody corrosion if low-quality materials are used
Service Tip: Get your exhaust system checked every 6 months if you've installed aftermarket headers or mufflers.
Modified suspensions affect wheel alignment, tire wear, and steering dynamics. Lowered cars may experience undercarriage damage, while lifted cars can impact drivetrain angles and increase stress on suspension components.
Impact on maintenance:
Premature wear of tires and bushings
Regular need for wheel alignment and balancing
Extra load on control arms and struts
Suspension fluid and shock absorber checks
Service Tip: Always realign wheels after suspension mods and inspect steering components every few months.
Upgrading to larger wheels may enhance looks, but it changes speedometer accuracy, affects handling, and can lead to uneven tire wear or strain on suspension parts.
Impact on maintenance:
Tire balancing and alignment required more frequently
Higher strain on axles and wheel bearings
Risk of tire rubbing and reduced fuel efficiency
Service Tip: Check tire pressure, alignment, and tread wear regularly with oversized rims.
Adding HID or LED headlights, underbody lights, or infotainment systems increases the load on your car’s battery and alternator. Without proper wiring and voltage matching, it could cause short circuits or electrical failures.
Impact on maintenance:
Faster battery drain
Increased need for battery checks and alternator output testing
Risk of blown fuses or relay damage
Service Tip: Use proper fuses and consult professionals when installing custom lights or electronics.
Body kits, spoilers, and diffusers can improve aerodynamics and style, but if not installed correctly, they may cause wind noise, affect cooling, or even reduce fuel efficiency.
Impact on maintenance:
Check for panel misalignments or gaps that allow dust/water ingress
Inspect underbody for scraping or part loosening
Keep mounts and adhesives clean and secure
Service Tip: Inspect body kit fittings during every wash or service, especially if you drive in rough or sandy conditions.
High-performance brake kits, such as slotted rotors or multi-piston calipers, offer superior stopping power but may wear out faster and demand more attention than factory setups.
Impact on maintenance:
Frequent brake pad and rotor inspections
Use of high-performance brake fluids with regular bleeding
Caliper and ABS system checks
Service Tip: Schedule brake checks every 5,000–7,000 km if your car has upgraded brake components.
High-flow air filters and fuel injectors improve power but can affect engine air-fuel ratios, triggering check engine lights or sensor issues.
Impact on maintenance:
Regular cleaning of filters and MAF sensors
ECU tuning may need periodic adjustments
Fuel pump and injector servicing required more often
Service Tip: Have your engine tuned and monitored by specialists after fuel system upgrades.
If your vehicle is modified, it’s best to get it serviced at workshops familiar with aftermarket upgrades. General workshops may not understand the intricacies of performance parts or may use incompatible tools or fluids.
At Grand City Auto Service, Dubai, we offer:
Custom maintenance plans for modified vehicles
Diagnostic tools for aftermarket ECU and engine setups
OEM-compliant fluids and replacement parts
Professional installation and inspection of performance components
Car modifications can make your vehicle more exciting, stylish, and powerful. But they also come with added maintenance responsibilities. If you're driving a modified car in Dubai, proactive servicing is essential to avoid issues like overheating, electrical faults, or part failures.
Routine checkups, expert handling, and the right tools are key to preserving your car's performance after modification. Trust experts like Grand City Auto Service to handle your custom car with precision and care.
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