Boosting your car’s performance sounds like an expensive endeavour. Images of new suspension components, larger wheels, big brake kits and body kits fill your mind.
But what if you’re on a budget? Or, what if like most motorists, you just want to feel some extra “oomph” without hurting your bank account?
Here are five things you can do.
1) Get yourself a set of high-performance tyres.
This is a sure way of boosting your car’s performance without breaking the bank.
Remember, tyres are responsible for transferring horsepower and torque to the road. They deliver grip and roadholding, and directly influence handling, too.
So, if you want shorter stopping distances (without a big brake kit), sharper steering feel and better grip (especially in the rain), get yourself a set of high-performance tyres.
They are the best “only” mod you can get.
2) Get a battery that suits your needs.
Sometimes, boosting your car’s performance literally requires a jolt.
If your car is equipped with a stop-start system, the battery drain and wear can be quite substantial, what with all that stopping and starting.
For cars with such functions, you’ll need an Enhanced Flooded Battery (EFB) or Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) battery in your vehicle.
Incidentally, these batteries are also maintenance-free – you don’t have to check and top-up distilled water.
3) Make sure your car is regularly serviced.
This is a no-brainer. Boosting your car’s performance is much easier if it’s kept in tune.
However, you’ll be surprised at how many car owners out there think that their vehicle is indestructible. They think that their car doesn’t need to be serviced on time (bad) or doesn’t need servicing at all (worst).
Regular oil changes (with high-quality synthetic lubricants) and a qualified mechanic giving your car a once-over will help it stay in tip-top shape.
Good engine oils help prevent carbon buildup, which is one of the causes of sluggish performance.
4) Help your car lose weight.
A lighter car improves handling, fuel efficiency and acceleration.
Lightening your vehicle then, is one of the best performance boosts you can give it.
Get rid of unnecessary stuff such as sports equipment, extra footwear, etc. You’ll love how light it feels on its “feet”.
5) Go on a road trip.
Yes, you read that right. A road trip or long drive will help boost your car’s performance. In fact, cars tend to feel perkier after a long drive.
The reason for this is that when engines are given a chance to operate/run for long periods, they can reach their optimal working temperatures.
The oil is also allowed to reach its optimal working temperature. When this happens, it is at its best in terms of lubricating and cleaning the engine.
At the same time, the engine is also hot enough to burn off that nasty carbon buildup that’s been choking it. So, your motor revs freer and feels perkier.
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