Nissan Altima 1990: Body Kit Upgrade Guide
Hey guys! So, you're looking to revamp your classic 1990 Nissan Altima with a fresh body kit? Awesome! You've come to the right place. In this comprehensive guide, we'll dive deep into everything you need to know about choosing, installing, and rocking a body kit on your vintage ride. Let's get started and make your Altima stand out from the crowd!
Why Upgrade Your 1990 Nissan Altima with a Body Kit?
First off, let's talk about why you might want to slap a body kit on your 1990 Nissan Altima. A body kit is more than just a cosmetic upgrade; it's a way to express your personal style and give your car a unique, aggressive, or sporty look. For a classic like the '90 Altima, a well-chosen body kit can turn heads and make your car look like it's been meticulously cared for and modernized.
Enhanced Aesthetics: Let's be real, the main reason most people go for a body kit is to improve the car's appearance. A body kit can completely transform the look of your Altima, making it appear more aggressive, sleek, or modern. It's like giving your car a brand-new outfit.
Personalization: A body kit allows you to customize your car to reflect your personal style. There are various styles available, from subtle enhancements to full-blown racing-inspired kits. This means you can tailor the look of your Altima to perfectly match your taste.
Improved Aerodynamics: While not all body kits are created equal, some are designed to improve the aerodynamic performance of your vehicle. This can lead to better handling and stability, especially at higher speeds. However, for a street car, the aesthetic benefits are usually the primary focus.
Increased Value (Potentially): A well-maintained and tastefully modified classic car can sometimes increase in value. If you plan to sell your Altima in the future, a body kit (along with other tasteful upgrades) could make it more appealing to potential buyers.
Understanding the Components of a Body Kit
Okay, so what exactly is a body kit? A typical body kit usually includes several key components, each designed to enhance a specific area of your car's exterior. Knowing these components will help you make informed decisions when choosing the right kit for your Altima.
Front Bumper: The front bumper is one of the most noticeable parts of a body kit. It replaces the factory bumper and usually features a more aggressive or aerodynamic design. Front bumpers can significantly change the overall look of your car.
Side Skirts: Side skirts are installed along the sides of your car, between the front and rear wheels. They help create a lower, more streamlined appearance and tie the front and rear of the car together visually.
Rear Bumper: Similar to the front bumper, the rear bumper replaces the factory unit and adds a custom touch to the back of your car. It often includes features like diffusers or exhaust cutouts.
Rear Spoiler/Wing: While not always included in a body kit, a rear spoiler or wing can add a sporty touch and improve aerodynamics. Spoilers range from subtle lip spoilers to large, aggressive wings.
Hood Scoops/Vents: Some body kits include hood scoops or vents, which can add a more aggressive look to the front of your car. These may be functional, helping to cool the engine, or purely cosmetic.
Choosing the Right Body Kit for Your 1990 Nissan Altima
Now for the fun part: picking out the perfect body kit for your Altima. With so many options available, it's essential to consider a few key factors to ensure you choose a kit that not only looks great but also fits well and meets your needs.
Style: What kind of look are you going for? Do you want a subtle, understated upgrade, or a full-blown, aggressive transformation? Consider your personal style and the overall aesthetic you want to achieve. Look at different styles like JDM, Euro, or clean and simple designs.
Fitment: This is crucial. Make sure the body kit you choose is specifically designed for the 1990 Nissan Altima. Universal kits might require extensive modifications to fit properly, which can be a headache. Check online forums and reviews to see if other Altima owners have had success with a particular kit.
Material: Body kits are typically made from fiberglass, polyurethane, or carbon fiber. Fiberglass is the most affordable but can be brittle and prone to cracking. Polyurethane is more flexible and durable, making it a good choice for daily drivers. Carbon fiber is the most expensive but offers the best combination of strength and lightweight properties.
Quality: Pay attention to the quality of the body kit. Look for kits from reputable manufacturers with a track record of producing high-quality products. Read reviews and ask for recommendations from other Altima owners.
Budget: Body kits can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. Set a budget before you start shopping and stick to it. Remember to factor in the cost of installation and painting, which can add significantly to the overall cost.
Where to Find Body Kits for Your 1990 Nissan Altima
Finding the right body kit might take some digging, but here are a few places to start your search:
Online Retailers: Websites like eBay, Amazon, and dedicated auto parts retailers often carry a wide selection of body kits for various makes and models. Be sure to read reviews and check the seller's reputation before making a purchase.
Specialty Body Kit Shops: Some shops specialize in selling body kits and aftermarket accessories. These shops often have knowledgeable staff who can help you choose the right kit for your needs.
Online Forums and Communities: Nissan Altima forums and online communities can be a great resource for finding body kits and getting recommendations from other owners. You might even find someone selling a used body kit in good condition.
Local Auto Shops: Check with local auto shops and customization shops to see if they carry body kits or can order one for you. They may also be able to provide installation services.
Installation: DIY vs. Professional
So, you've got your body kit – now what? You've got two main options for installation: doing it yourself or hiring a professional. Each has its pros and cons, so let's break them down.
DIY Installation:
Pros:
Cost Savings: The most significant advantage of DIY installation is the money you'll save on labor costs. Professional installation can be quite expensive, so doing it yourself can save you a considerable amount of cash.
Personal Satisfaction: There's a certain sense of accomplishment that comes with installing a body kit yourself. It's a great way to learn about your car and gain a deeper appreciation for its mechanics.
Cons:
Time and Effort: DIY installation can be time-consuming and require a significant amount of effort. You'll need to set aside a weekend (or more) to complete the job.
Skill and Experience: Installing a body kit requires some mechanical skill and experience. If you're not comfortable working on cars, you might be better off leaving it to a professional.
Potential for Mistakes: Mistakes can happen, especially if you're new to body kit installation. These mistakes can be costly to fix and could potentially damage your car.
Professional Installation:
Pros:
Expertise and Experience: Professional installers have the knowledge and experience to install your body kit correctly and efficiently. They'll ensure that everything fits properly and looks great.
Quality Workmanship: Professional installers typically provide high-quality workmanship. They'll pay attention to detail and ensure that the job is done right.
Peace of Mind: When you hire a professional, you can rest assured that your body kit is being installed by someone who knows what they're doing. This can give you peace of mind and reduce the risk of problems down the road.
Cons:
Cost: The main disadvantage of professional installation is the cost. Labor rates can be quite high, especially for complex installations.
Finding a Reputable Shop: It's essential to find a reputable shop with experience installing body kits. Do your research and read reviews before choosing a shop.
Painting Your Body Kit
Once your body kit is installed, you'll need to paint it to match your car. This is a crucial step that can make or break the overall look of your upgrade. You've basically got two options here: DIY or professional painting.
DIY Painting:
Pros:
Cost Savings: Just like with installation, DIY painting can save you money on labor costs. You'll only need to pay for the materials (paint, primer, clear coat, etc.).
Control Over the Process: DIY painting gives you complete control over the process. You can choose the exact color and finish you want.
Cons:
Skill and Equipment: DIY painting requires some skill and the right equipment (spray gun, compressor, etc.). If you don't have experience painting cars, the results might not be as good as professional job.
Time and Effort: Painting a body kit can be time-consuming and require a lot of prep work (sanding, masking, etc.).
Professional Painting:
Pros:
High-Quality Finish: Professional painters have the skill and equipment to achieve a high-quality finish that looks great and lasts for years.
Color Matching: Professional painters can perfectly match the color of your body kit to your car's existing paint.
Cons:
Cost: Professional painting can be expensive, especially for a full body kit.
Finding a Reputable Shop: It's essential to find a reputable shop with experience painting body kits. Ask for references and look at examples of their work.
Maintaining Your Body Kit
Alright, you've got your body kit installed and painted – congrats! But the job's not over yet. Proper maintenance is key to keeping your body kit looking its best for years to come.
Regular Cleaning: Wash your car regularly to remove dirt, dust, and debris from your body kit. Use a mild soap and water solution and avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the paint.
Waxing: Apply a coat of wax to your body kit every few months to protect the paint and keep it looking shiny. Use a high-quality car wax and follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Protect from the Sun: Park your car in the shade or use a car cover to protect your body kit from the sun's harmful UV rays. Prolonged exposure to the sun can cause the paint to fade and crack.
Inspect Regularly: Inspect your body kit regularly for any signs of damage, such as cracks, chips, or scratches. Address any issues promptly to prevent them from getting worse.
Conclusion
Upgrading your 1990 Nissan Altima with a body kit is a fantastic way to give your classic ride a fresh, personalized look. By understanding the components of a body kit, choosing the right style and material, and following proper installation and maintenance procedures, you can transform your Altima into a real head-turner. Whether you decide to DIY or hire professionals, remember that the key is to take your time, do your research, and enjoy the process. Happy modding, and show off that awesome Altima!