The aftermarket for car modifications is a multi-billion dollar industry around the world. While some changes can enhance the looks, performance or safety of a vehicle, plenty don't work out. Here's a selection of modifications that risk distracting other road users.
Huge spoilers
In the world of motor-sport, spoilers are critical to providing down-force for better grip and cornering. On many production cars, the primary purpose is sportiness rather than enhancing aerodynamics. I can’t deny that as a teenager, I thought spoilers such as those seen on the WRX at the time were very cool. However, it is possible to have too much of a good thing, as seen here.
Bogus vents, scoops & big block engines
Many legendary muscle and performance cars such as the Ford Mustang & the Subura WRX have featured great looking bonnet scoops. More air in the motor = more horsepower. However, some people fit huge, fake scoops and vents on their bonnet which can block the driver's view of the road and provide no performance improvements.
As if the design wasn't distracting enough, the two scoops seen on the blue cars feature fake engines sounds! You have to hear this to believe it (surprisingly convincing). On the bright side, perhaps this modification might have benefits for pedestrians and cyclists who would hear you coming from a mile away.
Insane body kits
In theory, at least, body kits can enhance the sporty look of the car. The best looking ones are usually factory fitted or done by professional custom bodywork shops. As you can see, it doesn’t always work out.
Exhaust overload
Most car lovers can appreciate a good looking exhaust, but these cars take it a bit far!
Super low riders
Lowering a car is one of the most popular modifications. Lowering the car too far though can cause some serious safety and practicality issues.
Front spoilers
Not content with a big rear spoiler, some car modders have taken to adding front spoilers and nose extensions. While the intention may be to increase speed, many front spoilers and groundwork modifications add drag to the vehicle.
Neon lights
The Fast & The Furious movie franchise has no doubt many young drivers around the world to add some serious neon to their cars. As well as being distracting, external lights are illegal in many states including Queensland.
Huge wheels - donks
You won't see many down-under but a car culture known as Donks describes donks as 'the world's most hated car culture'. Love them or hate them, it's fair to say many of these would be dangerous on the open road.
Headlight eyelids
This one is a little but cute but also very tacky. Headlights are a critical part of the car and probably not one to accessorise. These become a distraction to other drivers at all times of the day. The eyelashes shown below are from Alibaba where they sell under the title '3D eyeliner feminist fashion car headlight'. I can't imagine many of the women I know who identify as feminists rushing to buy these!
Crazy D.I.Y repairs
Car repairs can be expensive. I once had a car with broken A/C that cost a small fortune to get repaired. I did have a Google at the time to see if there were any cheaper ways to fix up the AC but I never would of thought of this DIY repair option!
If you think nobody else would think of doing this, think again.
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