Revamping your ND Miata doesn’t have to break the bank. With just a few budget-friendly modifications, you can transform your car into a sleek and personalized ride that grabs attention. Whether you’re going for a sporty, aggressive vibe or a clean, minimalist look, these easy-to-install upgrades will help you achieve it. In this guide, we’ll explore five exterior modifications that are affordable, simple to install, and guaranteed to give your Miata a stylish edge.
Contents
One of the easiest ways to set your Miata apart from the rest is by upgrading its emblems. The factory chrome badges might be functional, but they lack personality. Custom emblems let you bring your unique style to the car and create a more modern or aggressive look.
To start, you’ll need a few basic supplies like black Plasti Dip, clear coat spray, painter’s tape, and plastic sheeting to protect the surrounding paint. First, prep the emblem area by outlining it with painter’s tape and covering the rest of the car with plastic sheeting. After shaking the Plasti Dip can, apply the first coat evenly and allow it to dry for 30 minutes. Repeat this process for about five coats to get a rich, even finish. Once the Plasti Dip is dry, seal it with three coats of clear coat for added durability and shine.
When the paint has cured, carefully peel off the painter’s tape and clean up any overspray with a rag or toothpick. For those wanting a professional touch, consider purchasing pre-made custom emblem kits from brands like REV9 or Mazda OEM Roadster.
Wheels are one of the most eye-catching aspects of any car, and painting the calipers can elevate their look even further. This simple upgrade not only enhances your Miata’s aesthetics but also gives it a sporty, race-inspired vibe. Pairing freshly painted calipers with aftermarket wheels can completely transform the car’s stance and presence on the road.
Begin by lifting the car using a jack and securing it with jack stands. Once the car is safely elevated, remove the wheels using a socket wrench. Clean the calipers thoroughly with brake cleaner and a wire brush to remove dirt and grime. Use painter’s tape to mask off the areas around the calipers you don’t want painted, and then apply four thin coats of high-heat caliper paint. Allow each coat to dry for 30 minutes before applying the next.
Once the paint has cured, reattach the wheels and lower the car. For an added upgrade, swap your factory wheels with lightweight aftermarket options like Enkei or RAYS. Not only do these improve the car’s aesthetics, but they also enhance handling by reducing unsprung weight.
Tire lettering is a small detail that makes a big impact. It adds a bold, aggressive look to your Miata, instantly giving it a track-ready vibe. This mod is straightforward and cost-effective, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
Start by cleaning the tire sidewalls with acetone to remove any dirt or oil residue. This step is crucial for ensuring the adhesive sticks properly. Next, apply a thin layer of glue to the back of each pre-made tire sticker, then carefully press the letters onto the tire. Hold each letter in place for 30-60 seconds to ensure a strong bond. Once all the stickers are applied, let the glue cure for 24 hours before driving.
For a high-contrast look, white lettering works best. If you’re after a sporty aesthetic, red lettering can add a pop of color. Make sure to choose stickers that match the size of your tires for a professional finish.
Factory trunk lighting can be underwhelming, especially in low-light situations. Upgrading to an LED trunk light is a practical and stylish mod that improves visibility and adds a modern touch to your car.
Installing this upgrade is simple and requires minimal tools. Start by cleaning the surface inside the trunk where you’ll mount the LED strip. Use double-sided tape to secure the strip in place, then connect it to the existing trunk light wiring using a plug-and-play adapter harness. This eliminates the need for complicated splicing or wiring.
Once installed, turn on the trunk lights to test your setup. For a more cohesive look, pair this upgrade with sequential LED side markers or additional interior LED lighting.
If you’re looking to take your Miata’s exterior styling even further, here are a few bonus upgrades to consider:
With these simple exterior upgrades, you can transform your ND Miata from stock to stunning without spending a fortune. Custom emblems, painted calipers, tire lettering, and LED lighting are just a few of the ways to make your Miata uniquely yours. These mods are easy to install, beginner-friendly, and guaranteed to enhance your car’s curb appeal.
So, which upgrade will you try first? Drop your thoughts in the comments, and don’t forget to share your results. Happy modding!
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.