Don't think of chopping out that catalytic converter either. Your fuel mileage and performance could suffer, because having no catalyst can confuse your engine computer. If you're just dying for the extra fraction of
a horsepower that your "cat" sucks up, try a high-flow unit instead. They're priced similarly to the $110 ticket and re-install you'll pay if you simply cut the factory unit off.
Engine: Honda enthusiasts in particular have a slew of powerplant upgrades available to them. Higher-performance units or Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) engines can be installed to your Civic or Accord, but many who install these performance engines into their economy cars neglect to make necessary upgrades to the brakes, suspension and chassis to handle the extra power accordingly. The result is a car that can accelerate quickly without brakes and handling to match. If you ever have to file a claim with your insurance company, a transplant can often render your coverage void.
Lighting: Green corner lights are against the law, because that colour is used to identify volunteer firefighter vehicles. Blue, purple, and pink will also get you a ticket. On the back of your ride, the only colors allowed are red and amber, with white allowed to illuminate the license plate, two of which have to be visible on your ride at all times. They need to be attached to the front and back of the vehicle, not placed inside of it. Some drivers believe that removing the front plate makes it harder for laser speed detection to work on their vehicle. This is false, and if you remove the plate you can expect another $110 fine on top of your speeding ticket.
Decides, if your car were stolen, properly visible plates would make it easier to identify. That's the reason that colored or tinted covers on license plates or any other modification that alters their visibility is prohibited in Ontario.
Spoilers: Maybe you're considering a great big metal spoiler for the trunk of your vehicle. Did you know that they slow your car down, create drag, reduce fuel economy and generally provide no measurable down-force to benefit handling? They also block some of your rear-view, which could get you a ticket. If not attached safely, the same thing applies. Metal wings can be an expensive mistake. The average Honda Civic, Cavalier or Neon is incapable of the sustained speeds where downforce comes into play anyhow.
Chassis: If you're thinking of slamming your ride for looks or to increase its handling ability, there are some things you need to be aware of first. Lowering springs alone may not provide the improvements in handling you're looking for. In some cases, they can cause a nasty bounce as you
corner, which actually impedes dynamic performance. Sitting lower to the ground, on its own, usually doesn't improve handling. According to the law, no part of the car can come into contact with a tire or with the road at any time.
These are just a few of dozens of laws applying to modifying your vehicle. If you decide to start upgrading your vehicle, make sure you do it safely and legally.
Customizing your car can be a very enjoyable and rewarding hobby, or it can be an expensive hassle- it just depends on how much you know. Whatever you do, drive sensibly on public roads and respect other motorists and pedestrians. Join a club or head to an autocross or drag-race event if you're feeling the need for tire smoke and speed. Such events are far less expensive than court costs and impound fees.
 |
| (Photo: Justin Pritchard) |
Engine: Honda enthusiasts in particular have a slew of powerplant upgrades available to them. Higher-performance units or Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) engines can be installed to your Civic or Accord, but many who install these performance engines into their economy cars neglect to make necessary upgrades to the brakes, suspension and chassis to handle the extra power accordingly. The result is a car that can accelerate quickly without brakes and handling to match. If you ever have to file a claim with your insurance company, a transplant can often render your coverage void.
Lighting: Green corner lights are against the law, because that colour is used to identify volunteer firefighter vehicles. Blue, purple, and pink will also get you a ticket. On the back of your ride, the only colors allowed are red and amber, with white allowed to illuminate the license plate, two of which have to be visible on your ride at all times. They need to be attached to the front and back of the vehicle, not placed inside of it. Some drivers believe that removing the front plate makes it harder for laser speed detection to work on their vehicle. This is false, and if you remove the plate you can expect another $110 fine on top of your speeding ticket.
 |
| (Photo: Justin Pritchard) |
Spoilers: Maybe you're considering a great big metal spoiler for the trunk of your vehicle. Did you know that they slow your car down, create drag, reduce fuel economy and generally provide no measurable down-force to benefit handling? They also block some of your rear-view, which could get you a ticket. If not attached safely, the same thing applies. Metal wings can be an expensive mistake. The average Honda Civic, Cavalier or Neon is incapable of the sustained speeds where downforce comes into play anyhow.
Chassis: If you're thinking of slamming your ride for looks or to increase its handling ability, there are some things you need to be aware of first. Lowering springs alone may not provide the improvements in handling you're looking for. In some cases, they can cause a nasty bounce as you
 |
| (Photo: Justin Pritchard) |
These are just a few of dozens of laws applying to modifying your vehicle. If you decide to start upgrading your vehicle, make sure you do it safely and legally.
Customizing your car can be a very enjoyable and rewarding hobby, or it can be an expensive hassle- it just depends on how much you know. Whatever you do, drive sensibly on public roads and respect other motorists and pedestrians. Join a club or head to an autocross or drag-race event if you're feeling the need for tire smoke and speed. Such events are far less expensive than court costs and impound fees.