Top 5 Inexpensive Performance Upgrades
Want to increase the performance of your Lexus but don't have a ton of cash? Here are the best bang for the buck upgrades you can make on the cheap.
1. Throttle Body Controller
Throttle body controllers are commonplace on newer cars, but if you are still rocking an older Lexus, you probably don't have one. These sensors determine your gas pedal's position electronically, instead of by wire. This can mean better throttle response and power, depending on the settings. Aftermarket throttle body controllers offer multiple different throttle settings to choose from, and at a price of around $170-$250, they're a great value.
2. Headers
Headers have been a popular performance upgrade since the birth of the hot rod movement, and they remain a must-do job for performance seekers today. Headers free up the flow of exhaust from the engine block to the rear of the car, which in turn adds horsepower. While prices can get pretty high depending on what brand and finish you choose, there are still some available for around $150, which is an awesome deal.
3. High Flow Intake
Another old school performance upgrade that remains popular today is swapping out that old, restrictive intake manifold for a free flowing one. Performance intakes allow more air to get in the engine and adjust the air/fuel ratios to optimize power. The stock Lexus intake is known to be quite restrictive, so replacing it with an aftermarket unit can yield impressive power gains as well as an uptick in fuel economy - all for around $600.
4. Torque Converter
Replacing your factory torque converter with a performance unit increases your stall speed, which in turn offers better off the line launches and a significant reduction in acceleration times. For around $750, you can make your Lexus quite a bit faster 0-60 and in the 1/4 mile without adding any power.
5. Sway Bars
For those seeking to improve the handling of their cars, a sway bar upgrade is a great way to start without breaking the bank. For around $450, you can replace your stock sway bars with thicker ones that will improve responsiveness, reduce understeer, and allow you to take more speed into corners.
For more information on these upgrades, or maintenance and repairs, scroll through our DIY how-to section here in ClubLexus.com
