Honda-Tech - Honda Forum Discussion

Honda Civic: Body Modifications

With so many aftermarket products for the Honda Civic, how do you know which modifications will give your car the best look and attention? Here are several options to choose from, so continue reading.

By Jerry Perez - April 10, 2015

This article applies to the Honda Civic (1992-2000).

The body modification or accessory "aftermarket" for Honda Civics is so large and intense, it could be considered its own culture. But with so many options, how do you know what's best for your ride? Exhaust tips, grilles, side skirts, plus front and rear lips are the most common as well as glorified modifications to consider. So continue reading to find out which ones fit your car, budget, and style.

Body Modifications

For the 1992 to 2000 Civic model years, most members from the Honda-Tech community recommend sticking with popular and reputable aftermarket upgrades or modifications vendors, which is a wise choice to make for your prized possession. The modifications on the lower end of the price and quality will probably chip or fade away. Therefore, it is recommended that you sacrifice a little more cash for something a little higher in quality and looks.

Figure 1. Honda Civic EK with C-West body kit.

Exhaust Tips

DIY Cost – $15-$85 for parts

Professional Cost – $45-$130 for parts; $35-$100 for labor

Skill Level – Easy to moderate; some are simple bolt-on components, while others may require welding.

Exhaust tips don't actually modify the performance of your car, but they sure add a cool flare and more powerful look to its rear end. Although they don't tweak the exhaust performance, some tips may amplify your exhaust's sound. Most tips are easy to install and don't require any special knowledge or tools, but some may also be more difficult to install and will require welding. Recommended for its many style options and price range.

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Grille

DIY Cost – $30-$65 for parts

Professional Cost – $100-$160 for parts; $35-$100 for labor

Skill Level – Easy; the installation is a simple screw on parts.

Stock front grilles are commonly made out of plastic, and restrict air flow into the radiator. Aftermarket grilles are offered in a variety of materials and colors, which most will allow for higher airflow into the radiator as well as enhance performance. Grilles are usually inexpensive, and do not require any special tools or knowledge to be installed. Recommended for its sleek add-on and easy installation.

Side Skirts

DIY Cost – $110-$600

Professional Cost – $200-$800 for parts; $150-$300 for labor

Skill Level – Easy to moderate; may require painting of the component and a second person for proper installation.

Side skirts can be manufactured from inexpensive materials like fiber glass, or from expensive and high end composites like carbon fiber. Side skirts, in conjunction with front and rear lips, provide your car with a lower and more aggressive look that wrap around your entire car, giving it a more proportioned look. These body modifications may also require drilling and painting in order to fit as well as match your car. Recommended for its aggressive look.

Front and Rear Lips

DIY Cost – $115-$500 for parts

Professional Cost – $200-$800 for parts; $150-$300 for labor

Skill Level – Easy to moderate; may requires painting of the component and a second person for proper installation.

Front and rear lips offer a lowered car and more aerodynamic effect, as well as aggressive look to your front and rear fascia. Lips are usually sold in a black color, or primed and ready for painting. Keep in mind that you'll want to be careful in choosing a desired height for your new front and rear lip, so you don't damage them. Also, they may require some drilling to be installed. Recommended for their aggressive look and variety of options.

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