The Hyundai Elantra N is a fantastic performance sedan right out of the box, but many enthusiasts want to personalize and enhance their driving experience without diving into complex mechanical work. Fortunately, there are plenty of easy-to-install modifications that can improve the look, sound, and performance of your Elantra N without requiring advanced technical skills. Here are some of the best beginner-friendly mods you can do yourself.
1. Air Intake Upgrade
One of the simplest and most effective modifications you can make is upgrading the stock air intake system. A high-performance cold air intake can improve airflow to the engine, leading to better throttle response and a slight horsepower increase. Many aftermarket intakes come with easy-to-follow instructions and require only basic hand tools to install.
2. Performance Air Filter
If you’re not ready to swap out the entire intake system, simply replacing the stock air filter with a high-flow performance filter (such as K&N or aFe) is an even easier option. This upgrade improves airflow, potentially leading to a small boost in power and efficiency while keeping installation as simple as swapping out the old filter.
3. Blow-Off Valve (BOV) Spacer
For those who love turbo noises, a blow-off valve spacer is an inexpensive and easy-to-install modification that enhances the sound of your turbocharged Elantra N. It doesn’t provide performance gains, but it adds a sporty “whoosh” sound when letting off the throttle, giving your car a more aggressive character.
4. Cat-Back Exhaust System or Axle-Back Exhaust
A full exhaust upgrade might be too complicated for beginners, but installing a cat-back or axle-back exhaust system is relatively straightforward and enhances both performance and sound. Many systems are bolt-on and require only a few basic tools. This mod improves exhaust flow, enhances sound, and can even add a few horsepower.
5. Window Tinting
While not a performance upgrade, window tinting is an easy mod that provides multiple benefits, including better privacy, UV protection, and a sleek, aggressive look. Many DIY tint kits are available, or you can have a professional install it for a reasonable price.
6. LED or HID Headlight Upgrades
Swapping out the stock halogen bulbs for high-quality LED or HID bulbs can dramatically improve nighttime visibility and give your Elantra N a more modern appearance. Most LED and HID conversion kits are plug-and-play, making installation quick and easy.
7. Short Shifter Kit
For manual transmission owners, a short shifter kit is an excellent upgrade that enhances gear shifting by reducing throw length. Many short shifter kits for the Elantra N come with straightforward installation instructions and require only basic tools.
8. Wheels and Tires Upgrade
Upgrading to lightweight aftermarket wheels and high-performance tires can improve handling and give your car a unique look. While swapping wheels is a bit more involved, it’s still a manageable job that can be done with a jack and a wrench.
9. Suspension Upgrades (Lowering Springs or Coilovers)
If you want to improve handling and reduce wheel gap, installing lowering springs or coilovers is a great option. Lowering springs are the easier choice since they simply replace the stock springs and offer improved ride quality and aesthetics without the complexity of a full coilover setup.
10. Cosmetic Mods (Spoilers, Side Skirts, and Badges)
Aesthetic modifications like adding a rear spoiler, side skirts, or blacked-out badges can give your Elantra N a more aggressive and customized look without requiring any major tools or mechanical experience. Many of these parts come with 3M adhesive backing or simple bolt-on installation.
Final Thoughts
The Elantra N is already an excellent platform, but these beginner-friendly mods can help personalize and enhance your driving experience without the need for extensive mechanical knowledge. Whether you’re looking for better performance, an improved exhaust note, or a more aggressive look, these modifications are a great starting point for any car enthusiast looking to modify their ride on a budget and with minimal hassle.
