The Best Car Modifications for Autocross

So, you're fully invested in Autocross, if you've read my previous posts, you will know how to prepare yourself and your car for the event, as well as which tires you should go for based on your class, and if you haven't, I strongly suggest checking them out. Today is a fun topic, one that many people instantly think of... Modifications!

 

The difference between a race car and its road-going sibling is modifications, and when done right, they can increase the performance of your vehicle. Done wrong, they can hinder you, so doing it right is crucial. 

 

So, without further ado, let's dive into the 3 essential modifications for autocross (Plus maybe an extra one at the bottom)

 

The 3 Essential Autocross Mods

1: Anti-Roll Bars


The anti-roll bar is a steel rod that connects the left and right wheels on your car. By upgrading to a thicker, stiffer bar, you can eliminate body roll, and make your car more composed at high cornering forces, while not impacting the day to day drive-ability of your car, all for under 500 dollars. For more information on sway bars, check out this post from Newmar.

 

2: Coilovers


 

Coilovers, the combination of springs and shocks, can help control the body roll of the car throughout the corner, while lowering the center of gravity, thus increasing the lateral G-forces the car can accomplish, which ultimately makes you faster. To learn more about coilovers, click here to read an article by Bilstein, a leading manufacturer of high-end coilovers.


 

 

3:Harness

 

Harnesses aren't performance related, however they are essential to a fast autocrosser. While they may not be better for safety purposes, they lock you down in the seat, and prevent you from sliding around under braking, cornering, and accelerating, all of which helps you focus on the track, not your body positioning in the seat. 

 

Bonus Mod: Driver

 

My father has always said, "The most important nut to change on a car is the nut behind the wheel". The best thing you can do to make your car faster, is to become faster yourself, because if you drive any kind of fast car, you aren't capable of getting it to the limit. This is the most important mod, and is also the most fun. 

 

So, with that in mind, go forth and conquer the world of Autocross!

 

I want to know, if you were to have lunch with any racing driver, past or present, who would you want it to be? Leave it down in the comments below! Personally, I would love to have a meal with Ken Miles.


















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