Your complete roadmap to building a faster, better-performing car. Learn what to upgrade, when to upgrade it, and how to avoid costly mistakes.
Goal Setting
Mod Priority
Budget Planning
Avoid Mistakes
Before buying a single part, you need to know what you're building for. Your goals determine everything—parts selection, budget, and timeline.
You want more power but still need reliability, drivability, and street legality. This is the most common goal and requires balance.
✓ Most reliable approach
You can sacrifice some street manners for performance. Track-focused builds emphasize handling, braking, and consistent power delivery.
⚡ High performance focus
Quarter-mile or half-mile focused. Straight-line speed is all that matters. Big power, launch control, and sticky tires.
🚀 Maximum power builds
Appearance and attention to detail matter most. Performance is secondary to looks, fitment, and wow factor.
✨ Aesthetics first
Daily? Track only? Weekend toy? Your usage determines how extreme you can go.
Include parts, labor, AND maintenance. Performance isn't cheap—plan accordingly.
More isn't always better. 400hp on the street is plenty. Be realistic about your skill level.
Track cars break. Daily drivers can't. Know where you stand on the reliability spectrum.
Not all mods are created equal. Here's the smart order to upgrade your car for maximum gains and minimal headaches.
Why First: These are the foundation mods that unlock your engine's potential without major invasive work. A proper tune optimizes what you already have.
Cold Air Intake
Better airflow = more power
Cat-Back Exhaust
Reduce backpressure
ECU Tune
Optimize everything
Why Second: Power means nothing if you can't control it or stop it. These are safety-critical upgrades that improve handling AND braking.
Coilovers/Springs
Better handling & stance
Big Brake Kit
Stop faster, fade-free
Quality Tires
Grip is everything
Why Third: Now you're ready for serious power. Upgrade turbo/supercharger only after you have proper supporting mods in place.
Bigger Turbo/SC
Massive power gains
Intercooler
Keep temps in check
Fuel System
Support the power
Why Fourth: Big power breaks stock transmissions and clutches. Upgrade these BEFORE you hurt something expensive.
Clutch Upgrade
Handle the torque
Limited Slip Diff
Put power down evenly
Axles/Driveshaft
Prevent breakage
Why Last: Only necessary for extreme power (600+ HP typically). Most expensive mod. Do everything else first to know if you really need it.
Forged Pistons
Handle boost pressure
Forged Rods/Crank
Bulletproof reliability
Head Work
Maximum flow
The #1 mistake beginners make is going straight to big power without upgrading supporting systems. You'll blow up your engine, transmission, or both. Do it right the first time.
Progress through these stages at your own pace. Each builds on the last.
Stage
1
Bolt-Ons
+20-60 HP
$2k-$5k
Simple bolt-on parts that require no internal engine work. Perfect starting point for daily drivers. Reliable and reversible.
Stage
2
Turbo/SC Upgrade
+80-200 HP
$6k-$15k
Forced induction upgrade with all necessary supporting mods. This is where most street builds stop. Still reliable with proper tuning.
Stage
3
Built Motor
+300-600 HP
$20k-$40k+
Complete engine rebuild with forged internals. Track-focused or extreme street builds. Expensive but necessary for 700+ HP safely.
300-450 HP
Stock internals OK. Reliable. Low maintenance. Can drive daily without worry.
450-700 HP
Some risk on stock internals. Frequent maintenance. Track days are fine, commuting not ideal.
700-1200+ HP
Built motor required. High maintenance. Expect repairs. Trailer to track only.
Here's what you can realistically expect to spend at each level. Remember: these are STARTING points—it's easy to go over.
Entry Level
$2-5k
Enthusiast
$8-15k
Serious
$20-35k
All-Out
$40k+
Pro Tip: Hidden Costs
Budget an extra 20-30% for unexpected costs, maintenance, and the inevitable "while we're in there" upgrades. Also factor in dyno tuning ($500-$1500) and track day costs if applicable.
Don't guess—get expert guidance. We'll help you create a custom build plan that fits your goals, budget, and vehicle. Free consultation, no obligation.
Have questions? Email us at [email protected]