This tC is the first new car I've ever had and to be honest, the first I can have pride in owning, so I'm curious...I really would like to start customizing it. What's the best place to start? Where should I shop? Are their stores I can visit, maybe? I just don't know what to do.

 

I suggest First...look at all the threads in the "tc2" section to get Ideas..

GOOGLE is your best friend!

I would focus on upgrading the Suspension!...best mods right there.

 

Well first you have to decide where you're gonna head with your car. Performance vs looks. If you're going for looks, there are plenty of pictures on the forum to look at, if you see something you like just research up the parts. As far as performance, either go to some car shows or read product reviews, again everything you need are on these forums.

Second most important thing is setting your budget. Can you justify the amount of money spent for what you get out of it? I spent almost $200 on a rear sway bar, I debated that for weeks. Its really just a metal bar with precision bends. So $200 for a metal bar doesn't sound good, but as soon as I slap that sway on my car, I had a huge smile on my face. It corners like a **** lol.

As for as local places to buy parts, it depends on where you live. I notice ALOT used parts that are posted in the classifieds of this forum are from CALI. You could always shop online, sometimes prices are a bit cheaper.

And final thing, there is a DIY section. I'd recommend you take a look at that, it would save you a TON of money vs having a shop install stuff for you. There's everything from rims sizes, to painting brake caliper, to putting suede on your headliner.

 

^ what he said lol

 

If you like customization, you picked the right car.

Some cars take a lot of work to customize, even something like audio. The tC is fairly easy since most interior things just pop out. And the engine and body parts are not that difficult either.

The aftermarket part suppliers seem to be in a "wait and see" mode because the tC is not a high volume car so less money coming in for lots of research and development. Also the FR-S is just around the corner too.

But there are stuff available just don't expect a huge list of alternatives to that part.

Check out the build threads for ideas and pics. The stickies and DIY's are good too.


Good luck!

 

I recommend some upgrades from TWM on the quickshifter and bushing kits (base bushings come with the shifter and cable bushings are separate) if your manual.

Also for handling, you cant beat the price on TB Performance parts. I have all of Danny's braces and get a smile on my face everytime I go around a corner (plus they are all very reasonably priced). I think you can get all 3 braces for under 250.00

http://www.tbperformanceproducts.com/scion-tc2.php