Car modification or upgrading has evolved significantly, going from strictly mechanical to more aesthetic in recent years. There was a time when any feature one could think of adding to a car was acceptable, but these eccentricities have since worn out their welcome.
It may not be the most popular suggestion, but there is such a thing as trying too hard. Not every modification meant to grab bystanders’ attention adds to the vehicle’s attractive quality. The following are a few features that should give enthusiasts pause before they try them out.
Gold Plating Everything
Gold accents on a car might scream luxury to some. They are typically used by people looking to flash their cash, but if used in the wrong light, they can look like an advertisement for excess rather than affluence. This can attract the wrong kind of attention and, at worst, make the owner appear desperate to get noticed.
Scissor or Gullwing Doors
Doors that open upward have captivated the imaginations of many since their debut in 90s music videos and films. They are incredibly cool, of course, but also a bit impractical if the car is not a Mercedes SLS. Unless one is also stepping out of a rare high-performance vehicle while attending a red-carpet event to greet the media, it’s not worth it. Gullwings or scissor doors ultimately backfire on run-of-the-mill sedans, SUVs, or coupes, leaving the owner looking foolish.
Hydraulic Lifts
Lowriders with hydraulic lifting can allow the vehicle to bounce as it goes along. Like many other vehicle additions, this is a fad that should have remained in the past. For one, it was only done on particular convertibles to achieve the 90s look. Enthusiasts who still do this may appear stuck in the past, performing for an audience that is not paying attention.
Excess Touchscreens
There was a time when touchscreens were all the rage, but there is such a thing as too much. While several touchscreens appear very high-tech, they become a bit redundant when the screen takes up more space than other interior elements. Screens are there to provide information on the driving experience rather than to be the main feature.
Chromed Out Everything
Chroming is one of those awful modifications because it usually crosses the line between accentuating the styling and going over the top. It’s too flashy because of the high reflectiveness, making the car seem more about standing out than quality design. Chrome accents also age poorly. What may have appeared trendy at one time currently takes away from whatever appeal was present.
Stancing
Stancing means lowering the suspension and adjusting the wheel to appear at an angle to the body. While it should be done slightly to achieve a striking appearance, some overdo it so it almost seems like the wheels are horizontal to the body. Aside from looking ridiculous, this can compromise driving handling, increase tire wear, and make the car more susceptible to scrape damage.
Rear Spoilers for Non-Sports Cars
Spoilers are a great addition to sports car models as they improve aerodynamics by reducing drag. Non-sports car models do not require that much grip or maneuverability as they do not achieve the same high speeds. So, people who fit them in regular cars look like they are trying too hard because it seems out of place.
Fake Badging
Adding fake badges to a vehicle does not make it look more like the intended version. This is more painful when it drives because it appears to underperform despite the monikers given. Specs such as ‘V12’ or ‘M-badge’ for BMWs not of that model line are common. Some also overdo it by placing badges on almost every visible surface. It is one thing to have a powerful car, but when it is covered from end to end with fake badges, it definitely gives the wrong impression.
Remote Controlled Parking
A few high-end models, like the Tesla Model X, offer remote control parking, even via a smartphone app. This is undeniably a great gimmick and can come in handy for tight parking spots, but it ultimately seems like an unnecessary flex if the car is not a luxury model.
Pop-Out Door Handles
Some luxury vehicles come with pop-out door handles, which give a sleek feel. These features are tailor-made for the car and are a showpiece. However, it can seem a bit much if they are used on other models where they don’t come standard.
Huge Rims
Like badges and hydraulics, giant rims were previous fads meant to attract attention to the car. Wheels larger than the fender may create a statement, but they are impractical for daily driving. Imagine going to work every day with the same giant rims or picking children up from school while being gawked at. Oversized rims also come at the expense of ride comfort, so there is that to think about too.
High-Level Privacy Tint
Tinting is practical for privacy needs, but it can be overdone. At a certain point, it gives the impression that the owner is hiding from people or even the authorities. It also works both ways depending on the type, so the driver has limited visibility, especially at night.
Fake Carbon Fiber Trim
Carbon fiber trim is usually associated with performance vehicles because of its lightweight attributes. When you install knock-off versions of carbon fiber inserts, you can end up looking like you are trying too hard to make the car look racier or sporty.
Flames Paint Job
Flame decals were quite popular in the 1980s and 90s, but that was quite some time ago. Anyone trying to revive this look on their cars may be going for a retro vibe. Even then, it should be done tastefully because if you overdo it, your car can look like it belongs in a cartoon.
Loud Exhausts
Loud exhausts are popular in specific demographics and sports cars, particularly in the JDM community. That said, not everyone is of the same persuasion, and no one likes being woken up every morning because of pops and bangs. It can make it look like the owner just wants to be noticed, kind of like having a conversation by shouting at the other person so that it’s deliberately overheard.
Choose Your Car Mods Carefully
Car modifications are amazing when tastefully done, but not everyone received the same memo. Most over-the-top modifications make the vehicle seem racier than it is. Others add an aspect of luxury. It should not always be about the latest features, though. Sometimes, the subtle additions create the biggest impression. Trying too hard will usually not add to the car’s aesthetics.
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Mark Muhoro is a car enthusiast and writer who loves everything about automobiles. With over 11 years of experience in the automotive industry, Mark has become an expert in how cars work and what makes them special. He writes clear and interesting articles about cars for magazines and websites, making valuable contributions to renowned platforms like Vroom Magazine, Internet Brands, and Contentmotive.
