Widebody BRZ: A Complete Guide

So, you're thinking about slapping a widebody kit on your BRZ, huh? Awesome choice! A widebody can totally transform your car's look, giving it that aggressive, track-ready stance that turns heads everywhere you go. But before you dive in headfirst, there's a ton to consider. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about widebody kits for your BRZ, from choosing the right kit to the installation process and beyond. Let's get started!

Why Go Widebody?

Let's dive into why you might want to consider a widebody for your BRZ. The most obvious reason, and usually the primary motivator, is aesthetics. A widebody kit dramatically alters the appearance of your car. It adds significant width, creating a more aggressive and muscular stance that's hard to ignore. This visual upgrade can transform your BRZ from a sporty coupe into a real showstopper. Beyond just looking cool, a widebody serves a functional purpose, especially if you're serious about performance. The increased width allows you to run wider wheels and tires. Wider tires mean more contact patch with the road, which translates to improved grip. This is particularly beneficial for cornering, acceleration, and braking, making your BRZ faster and more stable on the track or during spirited driving. For those who frequently track their BRZ or participate in motorsports, a widebody is a practical upgrade that enhances performance capabilities. Furthermore, a widebody provides more room for suspension modifications. With the added width, you can optimize your suspension setup for improved handling and stability. This can involve installing wider coilovers, adjusting camber settings, and fine-tuning the overall suspension geometry to maximize performance. This level of customization is particularly appealing to enthusiasts who want to extract every last bit of performance from their vehicle. Finally, installing a widebody kit is a way to personalize your BRZ and make it stand out from the crowd. With so many BRZs on the road, a widebody is a distinctive modification that sets your car apart. You can choose from a variety of styles and designs to create a unique look that reflects your personal taste. Whether you prefer a subtle, understated widebody or a more aggressive, in-your-face style, the possibilities are endless.

Choosing the Right Widebody Kit

Choosing the right widebody kit for your BRZ is a crucial decision that will impact both the appearance and performance of your car. With so many options available on the market, it's essential to do your research and select a kit that meets your specific needs and preferences. First and foremost, consider the style of the widebody kit. Do you prefer a subtle, understated look that enhances the natural lines of your BRZ, or are you after a more aggressive, in-your-face style that demands attention? There are widebody kits available in a variety of styles, from subtle fender flares to full-on over-fender designs. Think about your personal taste and how you want your BRZ to look. Next, evaluate the quality and durability of the kit. Look for widebody kits made from high-quality materials like fiberglass, carbon fiber, or polyurethane. These materials are known for their strength, durability, and resistance to cracking or damage. Avoid kits made from cheap or inferior materials, as they may not hold up well over time. Another important factor to consider is fitment. A well-designed widebody kit should fit your BRZ precisely, with minimal gaps or alignment issues. Look for kits that are specifically designed for your BRZ model year, and read reviews from other owners to get an idea of the kit's fitment quality. Keep in mind that even the best widebody kits may require some modification or adjustment during installation. Think about your budget when choosing a widebody kit. Prices can vary widely depending on the material, design, and brand. While it's tempting to go for the cheapest option, keep in mind that you often get what you pay for. Investing in a high-quality kit from a reputable brand is usually worth the extra money in the long run. Finally, research the reputation of the manufacturer or supplier. Look for companies with a proven track record of producing high-quality widebody kits and providing excellent customer service. Read reviews from other customers to get an idea of their experience with the company. A reputable manufacturer will stand behind their products and provide support if you encounter any issues during installation or use.

Installation: DIY or Professional?

Okay, so you've got your shiny new widebody kit. Now comes the big question: Do you install it yourself, or do you hand it over to the pros? This decision depends heavily on your skill level, your access to tools, and your tolerance for potential headaches. Let's break it down. If you're a seasoned DIYer with plenty of experience in bodywork, you might be tempted to tackle the installation yourself. This can save you a significant amount of money on labor costs. However, installing a widebody kit is not a simple bolt-on procedure. It typically involves cutting, drilling, sanding, and painting, all of which require specialized tools and skills. If you're not comfortable with these tasks, it's best to leave it to the professionals. Keep in mind that even if you have the skills and tools, installing a widebody kit can be time-consuming and challenging. It's a project that can easily take several days, or even weeks, to complete, especially if you're working alone. If you're short on time or patience, hiring a professional installer may be the better option. A professional installer will have the experience and expertise to install your widebody kit quickly and efficiently, with minimal risk of errors or damage. They will also have access to specialized tools and equipment that you may not have, such as a paint booth and welding equipment. However, professional installation can be expensive, especially if you choose a reputable shop with experienced technicians. Be sure to get quotes from several different shops before making a decision, and ask about their experience with installing widebody kits on BRZs. Before you decide to DIY, honestly assess your skills, tools, and time commitment. If you're even slightly unsure, the peace of mind that comes with professional installation might be worth the cost.

Necessary Modifications and Considerations

Installing a widebody kit on your BRZ isn't just about bolting on some new panels. There are several other modifications and considerations you'll need to address to ensure that everything fits and functions correctly. One of the most important considerations is wheel fitment. With a widebody kit, your stock wheels will likely be tucked too far inside the wheel wells, resulting in a strange and unfinished look. To fill out the wider fenders, you'll need to either purchase new wheels with a lower offset or use wheel spacers. When choosing wheels or spacers, be sure to measure carefully and calculate the correct offset to achieve the desired fitment. You'll also need to consider the width and diameter of the wheels to ensure that they clear the suspension components and fender liners. Another important modification is suspension tuning. With the added width and grip of the widebody kit, your stock suspension may no longer be optimal. You may need to upgrade your coilovers, springs, and sway bars to improve handling and reduce body roll. Consider consulting with a suspension specialist to determine the best setup for your specific needs and driving style. You'll also need to address any clearance issues that may arise. Depending on the design of the widebody kit, you may need to trim or modify the fender liners, bumper brackets, or other components to ensure that everything fits properly. Be sure to take your time and carefully inspect all areas for potential clearance issues. In some cases, you may also need to relocate wiring harnesses or brake lines to prevent them from rubbing against the wider fenders. Finally, consider the impact of the widebody kit on your car's aerodynamics. While a widebody can improve downforce and stability at high speeds, it can also increase drag. You may need to add other aerodynamic components, such as a front splitter, rear diffuser, or rear wing, to optimize the car's aerodynamic balance. Remember to factor in the cost of these additional modifications when budgeting for your widebody kit project. A widebody is more than just an aesthetic upgrade; it's a comprehensive modification that requires careful planning and execution.

Paint and Finishing Touches

So, your widebody kit is installed, and it's looking mean. But hold up! You're not done yet. The paint and finishing touches are what will truly make or break the look. Getting this right is key to a professional and head-turning result. First up, prep work is everything. Before you even think about paint, the widebody kit needs to be properly prepped. This means sanding down any imperfections, filling any gaps or seams, and ensuring a smooth, even surface. Use a high-quality body filler to address any unevenness and sand it down with progressively finer grit sandpaper. The goal is to create a flawless canvas for the paint to adhere to. Next, priming is essential. Apply several coats of primer to the widebody kit, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Primer helps to create a uniform surface for the paint to bond to and also helps to prevent the paint from chipping or peeling. Sand the primer lightly between coats to ensure a smooth finish. Now for the fun part: painting. Choose a high-quality automotive paint that matches your BRZ's original color or go for something completely custom if you're feeling bold. Apply several thin, even coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Avoid applying too much paint at once, as this can lead to runs or drips. If you're not experienced with painting cars, consider hiring a professional painter to ensure a flawless finish. Once the paint is dry, it's time for clear coat. Apply several coats of clear coat to protect the paint and give it a glossy, durable finish. Clear coat also helps to enhance the color and depth of the paint. Sand the clear coat lightly between coats to remove any imperfections and ensure a smooth, even surface. Finally, polishing and waxing. Once the clear coat is dry, polish and wax the widebody kit to bring out the shine and protect the paint from the elements. Use a high-quality automotive polish and wax, and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Polishing and waxing will help to remove any swirl marks or scratches and give your widebody kit a showroom-quality finish. Remember, the paint and finishing touches are what will truly make your widebody kit stand out from the crowd. Take your time and pay attention to detail, and you'll be rewarded with a stunning and professional-looking result.

Legal Considerations

Before you get too carried away with your widebody BRZ project, let's pump the brakes for a second and talk about legal stuff. Depending on where you live, there might be some rules and regulations you need to be aware of. Nobody wants a hefty fine or to fail inspection, right? First, check your local laws regarding vehicle modifications. Some states or countries have strict laws about how much you can alter your car's body. A widebody kit definitely counts as a modification, so it's worth looking into. Pay attention to things like fender coverage. Many jurisdictions require that your tires are fully covered by the fenders to prevent debris from being thrown onto the road. If your widebody kit doesn't provide adequate coverage, you might need to install additional mud flaps or fender extensions. Also, be aware of any restrictions on vehicle width. Some areas have limits on how wide a vehicle can be, and a widebody kit could potentially push your BRZ over that limit. Check your local regulations to make sure you're in compliance. Another important consideration is insurance. Modifying your car with a widebody kit could affect your insurance coverage. Some insurance companies may not cover aftermarket modifications, or they may require you to pay a higher premium. Talk to your insurance agent to find out how your widebody kit will affect your policy. Finally, consider the impact of the widebody kit on your car's safety. Make sure that the kit is installed properly and that it doesn't interfere with any safety features, such as airbags or seatbelts. It's also a good idea to have your car inspected by a qualified mechanic after installing a widebody kit to ensure that it's safe to drive. By taking the time to research and understand the legal considerations, you can avoid potential problems down the road and enjoy your widebody BRZ with peace of mind.

Conclusion

So there you have it, guys! A comprehensive guide to the widebody BRZ. From understanding the benefits and choosing the right kit to navigating the installation process and considering legal aspects, you're now armed with the knowledge to make informed decisions. Remember, a widebody kit is more than just an aesthetic upgrade; it's a statement. It's a commitment to style, performance, and individuality. Whether you're hitting the track, cruising the streets, or simply parked at a car show, your widebody BRZ is sure to turn heads and spark conversations. Take your time, do your research, and don't be afraid to ask for help along the way. With careful planning and execution, you can transform your BRZ into the ultimate expression of your automotive passion. Now go out there and make it happen! The widebody world awaits! And remember to always drive responsibly and respect the rules of the road.