For car enthusiasts, customising a vehicle with a well-designed body kit is more than just a hobby—it's a passion. Whether you're looking to enhance your car's style with sleek side skirts and aggressive front bumpers or aiming to boost your car's performance with aerodynamic components like a carbon fibre hood or fender flares, the right body kit can make a world of difference. However, while choosing the right body kit is crucial, the installation process is equally important.
Many car owners might be tempted to install a body kit themselves, drawn by the allure of saving money and the satisfaction of a DIY project. However, the reality is that installing a body kit requires precision, specialised tools, expert knowledge and a whole lot of patience. Without these, you risk damaging your vehicle or ending up with a subpar result that could even negatively impact your car’s aerodynamic performance and visual appeal.
This article will delve into the common mistakes made during DIY body kit installations and explain why opting for professional installation is the smarter choice. By the end, you’ll understand why your car’s body kit should be installed professionally to ensure the best fit, finish, and functionality.
Common DIY Mistakes in Body Kit Installation
When it comes to installing a body kit, many car owners and enthusiasts are eager to dive into the process themselves. After all, how hard could it be to attach a few parts to your car? Unfortunately, the reality is that installing a body kit isn’t as simple as it seems. Here are some common mistakes that can occur during a DIY installation—and why these issues underscore the importance of professional installation.
Mistake 1. Improper Alignment and Fitment
One of the biggest challenges in installing a body kit is ensuring that each piece aligns perfectly with the car’s existing bodywork. Whether you’re fitting side skirts, front bumpers, or a carbon fibre hood, even a slight misalignment can throw off the look of your vehicle. More importantly, improper fitment can lead to parts rubbing against each other or even coming loose over time, which can damage both the kit and the car itself. Professional installers have the expertise to ensure that each component fits seamlessly, preserving both the visual appeal and aerodynamic performance of your car.
Mistake 2. Lack of Proper Tools
Installing a body kit isn’t just about screwing parts together. It often requires specialised tools that most DIY enthusiasts simply don’t have in their garage. From precision drills to torque wrenches and body alignment systems, these tools are essential for a secure and lasting installation. Using makeshift or improper tools can result in loose fittings, cracked parts, or even permanent damage to your vehicle. Professional installers come equipped with all the necessary tools to get the job done right, ensuring that your car body kit is installed with precision.
Mistake 3. Inadequate Preparation
Before any piece of a body kit is attached, the car's surface must be meticulously prepared. This means cleaning, sanding, and sometimes even priming the areas where the kit will be installed. Skipping or rushing this step can lead to poor adhesion, resulting in parts that don’t stick properly or peel off over time. Professionals know that preparation is key to a successful installation and take the time to ensure that the car’s surface is ready for the new components.
Mistake 4. Incorrect Use of Adhesives and Fasteners
The adhesives and fasteners used in body kit installation are crucial for securing the parts to the vehicle. Unfortunately, it’s easy for DIY installers to make mistakes here—whether it’s using too much adhesive, too little, or the wrong type altogether. These errors can lead to parts coming loose at high speeds or in extreme weather conditions, posing a safety risk. Experienced professionals know exactly which adhesives and fasteners to use for each part, ensuring that your body kit stays firmly in place.
Mistake 5. Paint and Finish Issues
After a body kit is installed, the next step is often to paint and finish the parts to match the rest of the car. This is another area where DIY attempts can go wrong. Matching paint perfectly is an art that requires experience, and applying it evenly without drips, bubbles, or streaks is even more challenging. A mismatched or poorly painted body kit can ruin the look of the car. Professionals have the skills and equipment needed to achieve a flawless finish, ensuring that the new parts blend seamlessly with your vehicle.
Advantages of Professional Installation
When it comes to adding car body kits to your car, the installation process is just as important as the quality of the kit itself. While DIY might seem like a cost-effective option, opting for professional installation comes with significant benefits that ensure both the look and performance of your vehicle are top-notch.
Here are the top reasons why getting car body kits installed professionally is the way to go:
Precision and Expertise
Professional installers bring years of experience and specialised knowledge to the table, ensuring that every component of your body kit is installed with precision. This expertise is crucial for achieving the perfect fitment that not only enhances the vehicle's appearance but also preserves its aerodynamic design. Whether you're working with carbon fibre, polyurethane body kits, or other materials, experienced professionals know exactly how to handle each piece to ensure it aligns perfectly with your car's body.
Access to Proper Tools and Equipment
One of the key advantages of professional installation is the access to industry-grade tools and equipment. These aren’t just standard garage tools; they include precision drills, alignment systems, and specialised adhesives that are designed specifically for body kit installation. Using the right tools ensures that the kit is installed securely and will hold up over time, even under the stresses of daily driving or higher speeds. This level of detail and care can make a significant difference in both the longevity and the aesthetic appeal of your body kit.
Time and Cost Efficiency
While it might seem like doing the installation yourself would save money, any mistakes made during the process can lead to costly repairs or even the need to purchase a new kit altogether. Professional installers can complete the job more quickly and with greater accuracy, saving you time and the potential for expensive do-overs. In the long run, this efficiency translates to better value, ensuring your investment in a high-quality body kit pays off without the added stress of DIY errors.
Warranty Protection
Many body kits come with warranties that are contingent upon professional installation. By choosing professional services, you not only ensure the job is done correctly, but you also protect your investment by maintaining the warranty. This means that if any issues arise with the body kit down the line, you’ll have the peace of mind that they can be addressed without additional costs. Warranties can cover anything from material defects to fitment issues, providing an added layer of security.
Enhanced Aesthetics and Performance
Perhaps the most noticeable benefit of professional installation is the final result. When a body kit is installed by experts, it not only looks flawless but also functions as intended. This is especially important for kits designed to improve the car’s aerodynamics, reduce drag, or enhance fuel efficiency. Whether you’re adding side skirts, a rear bumper, or a carbon fibre hood, professional installation ensures that each piece contributes to both the visual appeal and performance of your vehicle.
The Final Fit: Why Professional Installation is the Best Choice
When it comes to upgrading your vehicle with a body kit, the installation process is just as crucial as selecting the right kit. From ensuring precise alignment to using the proper tools and techniques, professional installation plays a key role in achieving a flawless finish that enhances both the style and performance of your car.
Choosing to go the professional route means avoiding the common pitfalls of DIY installation, like those we've mentioned today. Instead, you get the assurance that your body kit will not only look great but also contribute to the car's overall aerodynamic performance and durability.
So, whether you're adding side skirts, front and rear bumpers, custom body kits or sleek carbon fibre hood, remember that professional installation isn’t just about convenience—it’s about getting the most out of your investment in your vehicle. By working with experienced professionals, you ensure that your car stands out for all the right reasons, on the road and beyond.
If you’re ready to give your car the upgrade it deserves, reach out to AusBody Works today. Our expert team is here to provide the professional body kit installation services in Sydney that will bring your vision to life, making sure every detail is perfect from start to finish.
