- Ditch stock for a personalized machine. Modding is a thrilling journey of self-expression and performance upgrades.
- From the roar of an exhaust to eye-catching wheels, discover the essential mods that transform your driving experience.
- It’s more than just upgrades; it’s about learning, community, and the everlasting grin only a modded car can bring.
Modding cars is a journey, a right of passage–if you will. Whether you’re that high school kid dreaming of transforming an iconic sedan or the grown-up still hustling for that perfect build, we’ve all been there.
The community might be divided on essential mods, but one thing’s for sure—keeping your car stock is like keeping your personality on mute.
I still remember the Greenhills “tambayan” scene when I’d go with my titos and kuyas. Bringing my first car to Libis after a night out at Sibil, we’d line up our rides on the C5 sidewalk, car hoods open.
Friends and car clubs would exchange glances, waiting for that inevitable challenge: a drag race from the Green Meadows stoplight to the Ortigas Ave. U-turn slot.
Yeah, we were living the “Fast and the Furious” dream, fleeing from cops, hearing sirens, running to our cars like the iconic movie scene.
From online forums like Tsikot.com to car clubs before Facebook took over, those were avenues to exchange ideas with car gurus and fellow enthusiasts.
From modifying my AE92 small body, to my high school dream car Honda Civic SiR, my first Euro E46, which evolved to pickup trucks, SUVs, wagons, Subbies, muscle cars, sports cars, up to supercars—you always asked the same question:
“What’s the first mod?”
Here’s my list of the top 5 car mods that’ll have you grinning from ear to ear because, let’s face it, staying stock is for the weak.
1. Intake
We all know it’s more than just a power boost. It’s about hearing that glorious sound of air rushing through your mushroom filter like a mini vacuum.
Kids these days are spoiled with Shopee and Lazada. Back in the day, you had to hunt for parts in Banawe or know a guy who knew a guy. Brand loyalty? Nah, as long as it made your engine breathe better and scream louder.
2. Exhaust System
Cat-backs, full exhausts, resonator deletes—you name it. Yeah, it improves airflow and reduces back pressure, but let’s be honest—we do it for the sound. The deeper, throatier note turns heads at every intersection.
You’ll be surprised how local shops nowadays do a good job on those Mandrel bends and clean TIG welds. I even remember my mom hating my car when I used a SCAV/SCUV on my SiR. But hey, if you haven’t annoyed your neighbors at 2 AM with a cold start, are you even a car guy?
3. Suspension
It’s more than just achieving that car stance; it’s about feeling every curve and having confidence when you push it. From sway bars, coilovers, air suspensions, lowering springs, or even those infamous “putol” springs. Yes, “putol” springs where you literally cut your springs to achieve the height you want—we’ve all been there.
We don’t recommend this, as it makes the car unsafe and riding it felt like a cement mixer on a rough road. But hey, whatever it takes to achieve that drop with just your lunch money and student allowance, right? Pro tip: save up for proper coilovers—you’ll thank yourself later.
4. Wheels and Tires
This one’s personal. Sure, wider tires give you grip, and lighter alloys improve handling, but we all know the real reason—we just want to look good rolling.
I still remember the first time I slapped on a set of TE37s—felt like I leveled up because TE37 is life LOL. A good set of wheels can make or break your ride’s personality, so choose wisely.
5. Aesthetic Upgrades
Carbon fiber, anyone? Whether it’s a subtle lip kit or a wild widebody, these mods give your car character. Spoilers, custom wraps, lighting upgrades—it’s all about that unique touch.
Nothing feels better than pulling up with your car looking like it just rolled out of a tuner mag. Just remember, there’s a fine line between tasteful and tacky—don’t overdo it.
Beyond the Build
No matter what your journey is into the money pit of car modification, you will surely learn a lesson or two. We all started somewhere and at some point probably had to eat Skyflakes and Century Tuna for weeks (or even months) just to save up for those modifications.
Modding is a learning curve. You’ll make mistakes—trust me, I’ve had my share. At the end of the day, it will always put a grin on your face.
The real lesson? Respect other builds. Always appreciate and share your knowledge to help out fellow car lovers.
Forget the drama and brand wars—enjoy the car life and spread nothing but love to the community. After all, cars may come and go, but the passion? That’s forever.
So, what’s your favorite mod? Or are you still figuring out where to start?