There may be no better way to show off your love for your car to the world than a body kit. Body kits are exterior modifications that drastically change the look of a vehicle, sometimes making it hard to distinguish what car the current masterpiece started as. And while body kits are the ultimate personal styling statement, you do need to know a few things about them.
This guide will explain the individual components of a full body kit, as well as the basics of installing them. Keep reading to learn more about body kits for cars of all types.
What Are Body Kits?
Body kits are a set of exterior modifications designed to improve a vehicle’s appearance, aerodynamics, and overall performance. They’re made from a variety of materials, including fiberglass, carbon fiber, and ABS plastic.
Also known as a ground effects kit, a body kit typically includes components such as the front bumper, rear bumper, side skirts, rear spoiler, and rear air dam. Some also include fender flares. Many enthusiasts also opt for carbon fiber hoods with scoops to reduce weight and allow the engine to cool. These parts work together to improve both the vehicle’s style and performance, especially in terms of aerodynamics and increasing the size and offset of the wheels used, making them a popular choice for race cars and car enthusiasts.
Types of Body Kits
Depending on the look and performance improvements you’re after, you can choose from various types of auto body kits.
Full Body Kits
A full body kit includes all of the parts designed to enhance the entire vehicle’s exterior. This kit typically includes a front bumper, rear bumper, side skirts, carbon fiber hoods, and other individual components. They’re designed to create a cohesive look once installed.
Full body kits are often used by those looking to completely overhaul their vehicle’s style and achieve the most dramatic transformation.
Ground Effects Kits
A ground effects kit usually focuses on the lower body of the vehicle. These kits are designed to reduce air drag and improve aerodynamics, providing a more aggressive and sporty look. They can include side skirts and front and rear bumpers, or they may simply include lip kits that are installed onto stock bumpers.
Ground effects kits offer a slightly more subtle styling change. For those who want to enhance the performance of their vehicle while giving it a sportier look, ground effects kits are a great option.
Common Body Kit Materials
Body kits are made from many different materials, each with its own set of benefits. When choosing the right material, consider your vehicle’s style, budget, and intended use.
- Fiberglass: Known for its lightweight and durability, fiberglass is one of the most common materials used for auto body kits. It’s affordable and provides a balance of style and performance.
- Carbon Fiber: For those seeking both performance and style, carbon fiber is a top choice. Not only does it offer an aesthetically pleasing, sleek look, but it’s also incredibly strong and much lighter than stock parts, making it ideal for performance parts like carbon fiber hoods.
- ABS Plastic: Offering a cost-effective solution, ABS plastic is often used in ground effects kits and individual exterior upgrades. It’s durable, flexible, and resistant to impact, making it a great option for a wide range of vehicle modifications.
Benefits of Installing a Body Kit
Body kits can make quite an impact, but what are the benefits? There can be several, especially for heavily-modified cars. Here are a few benefits, from style improvements to performance gains.
Aesthetics
The most obvious benefit of a body kit is its ability to transform your vehicle’s appearance. Whether you’re looking to add carbon fiber hoods, side skirts, or rear spoilers, these parts can completely change the way your car looks. It’s the perfect way to make your car stand out and showcase your personal style.
Aerodynamics
Body kits can improve your car’s aerodynamics, which can make a difference for high-performance vehicles. Components like ground effects, rear spoilers, and air dams can reduce air resistance, allowing for smoother airflow over the vehicle and enhancing stability at higher speeds. Body kits can also allow more airflow into the engine bay or to the brakes, keeping things cooler for better performance. This is especially beneficial for race cars or vehicles driven at high speeds.
Performance
In addition to improving aesthetics, some body kits offer performance enhancements. By reducing drag and improving aerodynamics, ground effects kits and aero kits can help increase fuel efficiency and vehicle handling. And as mentioned, they can funnel cool air into the engine bay, over intercoolers, and toward the brakes. This is why many performance-focused drivers and car enthusiasts opt for premium body kits that combine both looks and functionality.
How to Install Body Kits
Installing a body kit can be a rewarding project, but if you don’t know what you’re doing, it can be easy to create gaps in body panels, rattling pieces, and poor fitment. The following steps are a simple guide for installing a body kit and shouldn’t be considered a full tutorial.
Step 1: Gather the Necessary Tools and Parts
Before you begin, make sure you have the right tools for the job. Depending on the type of kit you’re installing, you may need a drill, screwdrivers, wrenches, and adhesive. You might also need tools specific for bodywork and fiberglass, as many kits need to be adjusted to fit perfectly.
Be sure to gather all the necessary parts of your body kit, including side skirts, bumpers, and fenders, as well as any fasteners or clips provided by the manufacturer.
Step 2: Remove the Existing Parts
You’ll need to remove any existing parts that you’ll be replacing. This usually includes the front and back bumpers as well as the side skirts, but may also include fenders and hood, depending on the kit. Be careful not to break any of the fasteners—they’re often plastic and become brittle over time.
Step 3: Clean and Prep the Vehicle
Before attaching any components, clean the area where the parts will be installed. Dirt and debris can affect the installation and may prevent parts from fitting properly. If you’re installing parts like a rear spoiler onto the vehicle, ensure the vehicle’s surface is smooth and free of imperfections.
Step 4: Fit the Parts
Begin by loosely fitting the parts into place before securing them. This will allow you to make adjustments and ensure proper alignment. Pay attention to the fit of each component, as you may need to trim or adjust components to make sure everything lines up correctly.
Step 5: Secure the Parts
Once everything is aligned, begin securing the parts using the appropriate fasteners. Some components may require adhesives or double-sided tape, depending on the manufacturer. Make sure to tighten all screws and bolts properly to avoid loose components while driving.
Step 5: Paint
In most cases, it’s easier to remove the parts and paint them separately from the vehicle. Many body kits come unpainted, allowing you to customize the finish. If you’re using materials like carbon fiber or ABS plastic, consider using a protective clear coat to prevent damage and enhance the finish.
Step 6: Secure the Parts
Once everything is painted, fitted, and aligned, begin securing the parts using the appropriate fasteners. Some components may require adhesives or double-sided tape, depending on the manufacturer. Make sure to tighten all screws and bolts properly to avoid loose components while driving.
Transform Your Vehicle’s Appearance with a Body Kit from Vivid Racing
If you’re looking for a major exterior upgrade, check out Vivid Racing’s selection of body kits. We offer a wide range of body kits and ground effects kits for enthusiasts’ cars of all types. Whether you’re looking for something to improve track performance or simply stand out from the crowd, Vivid Racing has a body kit to make it happen.
