Consider the theme of your dream car in terms of design elements and color schemes, and then factor in the practical details like the budget, the time constraints, the manpower needed to complete the project within the scheduled timeframe as well as all the mechanical and superficial components necessary to facilitate the car’s transformation from ordinary to extraordinary.

The tuner car parts that make it onto your shopping list have everything to do with the kind of effect you’d like the car to have.

Will it be an instrument of brute force with a minimalist approach to aesthetics, or a flamboyant, colorful ride with wings and fins to complete the automotive work of art?

Consult the professionals – that’s what they’re there for. They’ll inspect your vehicle inside and out and advise you about the kinds of modifications that would work best on your vehicle, as well as those that should be left off the drawing board.

As for the right parts for the mods you want to make, they’ll be able to point you in the direction of the places that stock what you need if they don’t.

So where to start, and with what?

Again, this depends on the kind of car you’re crafting and its purpose. For those going big on looks, the rims are almost always the first accessory to be purchased, purely because a new set of wheels gives any car an instant facelift.

In fact, all the exterior mods – applying the new paint job, molding and fitting the body kit and the fitting lights fixtures – come before anything on the inside is given the same treatment. After all, this modder wants to make a visual impact.

On the other side of the spectrum, those with a penchant for power will concentrate first on opening up the engine’s breathing passages with a few additions to the air intake system.

This modder is after power and the noise that comes with it, so the first round of tuner car parts to be fitted will include new filters or even whole intake and exhaust system overhauls.

Clearing the airways instantly enhances performance, and a new filter or a performance exhaust will certainly make itself heard the next time you hit the streets.

Whether you’re building an eye-puller or a wolf in sheep’s clothing, a successful modification project begins with an idea, a plan and the right tools. Stick to your schedule, ask advice from the experts and don’t be afraid to take your car all the way to fulfill the vision in your mind.

The end result will make the whole effort worthwhile.