Rep Power: 0

Im new to cars. Im going to school for auto technology and am just now startinga job as a quick service tech. i recently bought a 2005 Honda civic ex coupe and am eventually wanting to mod it but also keep it somewhat of a daily driver. Im just curious on what my first mod point could be. just looking where to start. Im not really concerned about performance at the moment, of course i would like it to run and drive well, but as of now i am just looking to make it look a lot cleaner. i know that id like to lower it and put new rims on. but im not sure if that is the ideal starting point. Just give me some opinions pls and thnks

 
Rep Power: 222

It's all personal taste. I like alot of the factory alloys.
Don't waste money on power mods, they don't make any difference.

 
Rep Power: 126

I’d start at stage 0. Do all preventative maintenance in ensuring that the car is actually going to last.

Any service history? If not, check out the timing belt/water pump, air filter, spark plugs, compression check, etc.

But above all else, post some pics!

 
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-FRSam

Starting at stage 0, so far ive replaced the front rotors, calipers and pads. i replaced the rear drums, but not hardware or shoes because it looks like the old owner had taken it to a shop to have them replaced, looks like i have roughly a year or so before id need to change them. I have a small exhaust leak and am working on fixing it (i dont know how to weld but i have a buddy that does, its just finding time where our schedules are both empty). I was thinking about doing an engine flush but not quite sure what exactly it does or if its worth doing. I think my starter is going bad as well but not sure how to tell for sure. Ill do some digging into it soon.

 
Rep Power: 367

word of warning:
my stock rear drum pads are still stock at 136k miles - these cars simply don't use the rear brakes
I opened the drum at 100k miles and the pads had about same thickness as the new pads... They are working, BTW, just not much work to do on a very light FWD front engine car

 
Rep Power: 126

I wouldn't bother doing any flushes - especially to the transmission. That'll do more harm than good.

Check the timing belt. If you don't know when it was last replaced, just replace it. Interference engines aren't worth taking the chance. They're a relatively simple but involved job and is a great way to get to know the car.

Something like a valve adjustment wouldn't hurt, either.

 
Rep Power: 244

Yeah don’t flush Honda’s…they don’t like it.

Once all maintenance is up to date start with wheels, tires and suspension. Nice set of wheels, set of summer tires and coilovers and you will be looking better and handling better.

 
Rep Power: 314

Focus on making the car look the way you want. Never forget though, every mod you add removes some reliability from the car.

I personally think it’s best to leave your daily driver stock and buy a car to tinker with. I realize that’s not in everyone’s budget though.

Maybe start with suspension? Lower it a bit!

 
Rep Power: 367

woah, look what the cat dragged in! @xRiCeBoYx

 
Rep Power: 512

He has a 2001 Prelude now, too. lol.

You'd know this if you stuck around the fb chat

 
Rep Power: 314

yeah that’s right I’m still alive!!!

 
Rep Power: 367

and you are still on Josh's sig

 
Rep Power: 314

yeah the picture is too iconic to take down.

Sorry to hijack your thread!!!