8 Practical Upgrades That Can Improve Your Car’s Performance

A few smart improvements can help keep your car looking and performing better, while also boosting its value when it’s time to trade it in.

With new cars now costing close to $50,000 on average, many Americans are holding on to their vehicles longer than before.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says the average vehicle on U.S. roads is nearly 13 years old. If yours is more than 10 years old, you may be thinking about ways to make it feel more up to date.

Consumer Reports says more drivers are choosing to keep their cars running longer.

“There was a time when approaching 100,000 miles on a car meant you should start thinking about a trade-in,” the group said in a January 2026 report. “But with proper maintenance and the advancements in automotive technology, Consumer Reports’ survey data shows that cars today can last well beyond that point.”

With that in mind, the USA TODAY Cars team reviewed practical upgrades that can work for nearly any vehicle, based on information from CarParts.com.

Upgrades for Ride Comfort and Handling

1. Suspension modifications

CarParts.com says lowering a suspension can cost about $2,000, while raising it can run around $7,000, depending on what you want.

“Some drivers lower their vehicles for better stability and handling on the road and on the track, while others lift their trucks or SUVs for more ground clearance,” the website said.

2. Seat modifications

More comfortable seats may cost about $2,000, while a new seat cover can be purchased for as little as about $60.

“Apart from improving the look of your vehicle’s interiors, a new car seat can provide comfort during long drives,” the website said.

3. Add high-performance tires

A set of high-performance tires could cost about $300, plus roughly $45 per tire for labor, according to the website.

“If you want to optimize your vehicle’s performance without breaking the bank, you should look into getting a new set of aftermarket performance tires,” the website said. “These specialized tires are designed to improve your vehicle’s traction and handling while providing better resistance against overheating, which is a common cause of tire failure.”

Upgrades for Convenience and Visibility

4. Add a new sound system

A new sound system may cost as much as $2,000, according to CarParts.com. It could be worth the expense if you spend a lot of time listening to music behind the wheel.

“There are many kinds of components you can install to improve your overall listening experience,” the website said. “The price will vary depending on the sound quality that you want.”

5. Add new bushings

New bushings may cost up to $2,200 and can help make the ride feel smoother.

“Automotive bushings are small cushions that reduce friction between your vehicle’s metal parts,” the website said. “They also reduce your vehicle’s vibrations and noise when driving over speed bumps and potholes.”

6. Get a new paint job

A fresh paint job could cost as much as $10,000. CarParts.com says a professional paint job can also bring out the vehicle’s best features.

“The price of a paint job will vary depending on several factors, such as paint quality, vehicle size and finishes,” the website said. “Some custom shops may charge more for vehicles that have surface imperfections because they’ll have to paint around them or cover them up.”

7. Tint the windows

The film needed for window tinting can cost up to $800, with labor adding another $10 per square foot. Tinted windows can improve appearance, help block UV rays and cut glare from bright light.

8. Get better headlights

A headlight conversion kit can cost as much as $220, according to CarParts.com, with labor potentially adding up to $1,000. The website says many older cars still use halogen bulbs, which create a lot of heat and can cause burns. By comparison, LED headlights are considered safer and more efficient.