So, you’ve got a Subaru. Awesome. These cars are built tough, ready for whatever you throw at them, whether it’s a daily drive or a weekend trail run. But what if you want yours to look a little different, or maybe perform a bit better? That’s where Subaru body panels and accessories come in. We’re talking about ways to make your ride truly yours, from changing up the look to adding a bit more protection. Let’s check out some popular options.
Key Takeaways
- Vinyl wraps let you change your Subaru’s color without a permanent paint job, offering protection and style flexibility.
- Dash kits can update your interior with finishes like carbon fiber or wood grain for a custom look.
- Paint protection film acts as a shield against scratches and chips, keeping your Subaru looking sharp.
- Window tints reduce glare, block UV rays, and help keep your car cooler, adding both comfort and style.
- Accessories like headlight/tail light tint covers and pillar post trim offer easy ways to customize your Subaru’s exterior appearance.
1. Vinyl Wraps
Thinking about changing up your Subaru’s look but not ready for a permanent paint job? Vinyl wraps are a pretty cool way to go. They’re basically big stickers, but way more advanced, that you can put all over your car. You can get them in pretty much any color or finish you can imagine – think matte black, shiny gloss, or even that cool carbon fiber look that makes cars seem faster.
These wraps do more than just change the appearance; they also add a layer of protection for your Subaru’s original paint. It’s like giving your car a temporary, stylish shield against minor scratches and dings from everyday driving. Plus, if you get tired of the color or finish, you can just peel it off and try something new. It’s a flexible way to keep your ride looking fresh.
Here’s a quick look at some common wrap types and what they offer:
| Wrap Type | Primary Benefit |
|---|---|
| Full Car Wrap | Complete color/finish change, overall protection |
| Accent Wraps | Highlights specific areas (hood, roof, mirrors) |
| Interior Wraps | Customizes dashboard and trim pieces |
The great thing about vinyl wraps is how adaptable they are. You can go for a full vehicle transformation or just add a few subtle touches to make your Subaru unique. It’s a popular choice because it lets you express your style without the commitment and cost of a new paint job.
2. Dash Kits
Want to give your Subaru’s interior a fresh look without a full overhaul? Dash kits are a pretty neat way to do it. These are basically pre-cut pieces designed to fit specific spots on your dashboard, like around the vents, radio, or gear shifter. You can get them in all sorts of finishes – think carbon fiber for a sporty vibe, wood grain for a classic feel, or even brushed aluminum for something sleek.
Installing a dash kit is usually a straightforward process, often involving strong adhesive backing. It’s a good weekend project if you’re looking to change up the cabin’s appearance without a huge commitment. Plus, they can cover up minor scratches or wear on your original dash, making things look new again.
| Finish Type | Common Applications |
|---|---|
| Carbon Fiber | Steering wheel, center console |
| Wood Grain | Dashboard panels, door trim |
| Brushed Aluminum | Around vents, gear shifter |
| Gloss Black | Full dash overlay |
Choosing the right finish can really change the whole mood inside your car. It’s amazing how a few well-placed pieces can make the interior feel more premium or more personalized to your taste.
3. Paint Protection
Keeping your Subaru looking sharp means protecting its paint. Over time, even the most careful drivers can pick up minor scratches, dings from road debris, or those annoying little chips that seem to appear out of nowhere. That’s where paint protection films come in.
These aren’t your grandma’s car bras. Modern paint protection is usually a clear, thin film made from thermoplastic urethane. It’s applied directly over your Subaru’s factory paint. Think of it as an invisible shield. It’s designed to absorb the impact of small stones, bug splatter, and road salt, preventing them from reaching and damaging your actual paint. This is especially important if you drive models like the Outback or Forester, which often venture off the beaten path where they’re more exposed to hazards.
| Protection Type | Common Issues Addressed | Durability | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paint Protection Film (PPF) | Scratches, chips, bug stains, road salt | 5-10 years | $$$ |
| Ceramic Coating | Minor scratches, UV fading, chemical stains | 2-5 years | $$ |
| Wax/Sealant | UV fading, water spots, light swirl marks | Weeks to Months | $ |
Applying these films can be a bit tricky, so many people opt for professional installation. However, DIY kits are available if you’re feeling confident. It’s a worthwhile investment if you want to maintain your Subaru’s appearance and resale value for years to come.
Protecting your car’s paint isn’t just about looks; it’s about preserving the integrity of the vehicle’s exterior. Minor damage can lead to rust or paint degradation over time, which is much more costly to fix than preventative protection.
4. Window Tint
Adding window tint to your Subaru is a smart move, not just for looks but for comfort too. It really cuts down on the sun’s glare, making those long drives a lot easier on your eyes. Plus, it blocks a good chunk of those UV rays, which is great for protecting your car’s interior from fading and keeping you and your passengers cooler, especially during those hot summer months.
We offer precut kits specifically for Subarus, so you don’t have to mess around with trying to cut the film yourself. That can be a real headache, trust me. You can pick from different shades, from a light tint that just offers a bit of privacy and glare reduction, all the way to a darker tint for maximum heat rejection and privacy. It’s a pretty straightforward way to make your Subaru feel more like your own space.
Window tint isn’t just about looking cool; it’s practical. It helps keep the cabin temperature down, which means less strain on your AC and a more comfortable ride. It also adds a layer of security, making it harder for people to see what’s inside your car at a glance.
5. Headlight Tint Covers
Want to give your Subaru a different look without doing anything too permanent? Headlight tint covers are a pretty neat way to go about it. They’re basically pre-cut films that stick right onto your headlight lenses. You can get them in different shades, from a light smoke to a darker tint, and sometimes even in colors like yellow or blue if you’re feeling bold.
These covers add a custom style while also offering a bit of protection against minor scratches and road debris. It’s not like they’re bulletproof, but they can help keep your actual headlight lenses looking cleaner for longer. Plus, they can really change the whole front-end vibe of your car, making it look a bit more aggressive or sleek, depending on the tint you choose.
It’s worth noting that while they look cool, you’ll want to check your local laws regarding headlight tinting. Some places can be pretty strict about anything that might affect light output.
| Tint Shade | Appearance |
|---|---|
| Light Smoke | Subtle darkening |
| Dark Smoke | Aggressive look |
| Yellow | Retro/Fog light feel |
| Blue | Unique, eye-catching |
6. Tail Light Tint Covers
Want to give your Subaru a bit of a custom look without going overboard? Tail light tint covers are a pretty straightforward way to do it. They’re basically pre-cut vinyl pieces that stick right onto your existing tail lights. You can get them in different shades, from a light smoke to a darker tint, or even in colors like red if you want something bolder.
Beyond just looks, these covers can offer a little bit of protection too. They can help shield your tail lights from minor road debris, like small stones or grit, that might otherwise cause tiny scratches over time. It’s not like a full-on paint protection film, but it’s something.
When you’re picking out tail light tints, think about what you want the final look to be. A light smoke is subtle and classy, while a darker tint can make the lights look more integrated into the overall design of the car. Some people even go for colored tints to match other accents on their Subaru.
Installation is usually pretty simple – just clean the surface of your tail lights really well, peel the backing off the tint, and carefully apply it, smoothing out any bubbles as you go. It’s a weekend project that can make a noticeable difference in how your Subaru’s rear end looks.
7. Pillar Post Trim
Want to give your Subaru a more finished look? Pillar post trim is a pretty neat way to do it. These are basically small panels that fit right onto the pillars between your doors and windows. They cover up the often plain or scratched factory pillars, giving your car a sleeker, more premium appearance.
They come in a bunch of different finishes, too. You can go for a classic glossy black, a shiny chrome, or even a carbon fiber look to match other mods. It’s a subtle change, but it really makes a difference in how polished the whole exterior looks. Installation is usually pretty straightforward, often just sticking on with adhesive, so it’s a DIY job for most people.
These trim pieces are designed to fit your Subaru’s pillars precisely, adding a touch of class without looking out of place. It’s a small detail that can really tie the whole look of your vehicle together.
| Finish Type | Common Colors | Installation |
|---|---|---|
| Glossy | Black, Silver | Adhesive Backing |
| Matte | Black, Gray | Adhesive Backing |
| Chrome | Silver | Adhesive Backing |
| Carbon Fiber Look | Black/Gray | Adhesive Backing |
8. Caliper Wraps
Want to add a little something extra to your Subaru’s wheels? Caliper wraps are a pretty neat way to do it. They’re basically vinyl stickers that go right over your brake calipers. You can get them in all sorts of colors and finishes – think bright red, sleek black, or even something that looks like carbon fiber. It’s a simple way to make your car look a bit sportier, especially if you’ve got performance models like a WRX STI. Plus, they offer a bit of protection against dirt and road grime that can build up on your calipers.
It’s not just about looks, though. These wraps can help keep your calipers cleaner, which might make them last a bit longer. Installation is usually pretty straightforward, often a DIY job if you’re feeling handy. You just clean the caliper really well, peel the wrap, and stick it on. Some people even do their own custom designs.
Caliper wraps are a small detail that can make a big difference in how your wheels look. They’re an affordable way to add a custom touch without doing anything permanent.
Here’s a quick look at what you might find:
| Color/Finish | Protection Level | Installation Ease |
|---|---|---|
| Gloss Black | Basic | Easy |
| Matte Red | Basic | Easy |
| Carbon Fiber Look | Basic | Easy |
| Chrome | Basic | Easy |
9. Carbon Fiber Trunk Cover
Looking to shed some weight and give your Subaru a sharper look? A carbon fiber trunk cover might be just the ticket. These covers replace your stock trunk lid, offering a noticeable reduction in weight, which can actually make a small difference in how your car handles. Plus, that carbon fiber weave just looks plain cool, giving your ride a more aggressive, performance-oriented vibe.
It’s not just about looks and weight, though. Carbon fiber is known for its strength and durability, so while it’s lighter, it’s still tough. Installation is usually pretty straightforward, often bolting right up where your original trunk lid was. You’ll find them available for various Subaru models, from the sporty BRZ to the rally-inspired WRX.
Swapping out your metal trunk for a carbon fiber one is a pretty direct way to get that race-car feel. It’s one of those mods that people notice, and it really changes the whole profile of the car from the back. Plus, it’s a good conversation starter at car meets.
When you’re shopping around, check the quality of the weave and the finish. Some might come clear-coated and ready to go, while others might need a bit of prep before painting or clear coating. It’s a solid upgrade if you’re aiming for a lighter, more stylish Subaru.
10. Shift Knobs
Swapping out your Subaru’s stock shift knob is a pretty straightforward way to give your interior a little refresh. It’s one of those small changes that can make a surprisingly big difference in how the car feels when you’re driving.
There are tons of options out there, from weighted knobs that give a more solid feel when you shift, to different materials like polished aluminum, carbon fiber, or even custom-stitched leather. The right shift knob can really add a personal touch to your cabin and make those gear changes feel a bit more satisfying.
When you’re picking one out, think about how it feels in your hand. Some people like a heavier knob for a more deliberate shift, while others prefer something lighter and sleeker. It’s all about what feels best to you during your daily drives or spirited runs.
Here’s a quick look at some common types:
| Material | Feel/Benefit |
|---|---|
| Aluminum | Cool to the touch, durable, often weighted |
| Carbon Fiber | Lightweight, sporty look, can be textured |
| Weighted Steel | Provides a more substantial, precise shift |
| Leather/Alcantara | Comfortable grip, premium feel, good traction |
| Delrin | Stays cooler than metal, good grip |
Wrap It Up: Your Subaru, Your Way
So, you’ve seen all the ways you can tweak your Subaru, whether you’re aiming for a tougher look for the trails or just want to make your daily drive a bit more comfortable and stylish. From cool dash kits and protective wraps to those little touches like caliper covers, there’s a ton of stuff out there. It’s all about making your Subaru truly yours. Don’t be afraid to explore what’s available and pick out the bits and pieces that fit your life and your ride. Happy customizing!
