How to Maintain Your Mustang After Installing Performance Mods

If you want to make the most of your Mustang, you have a lot of options for mods. Whether you’re looking for better handling, more power, or quicker acceleration, you can add components like turbochargers or performance shocks to completely transform the vehicle. Once you install the mod, though, you need to be sure that you’re taking proper care of your car and keeping it running smoothly. Modifications can completely change the way the vehicle operates, and that might mean that you need to up your maintenance game. Knowing the correct Mustang mod care and Mustang maintenance tips will help your car run at its absolute peak for as long as possible.

Know the Requirements of Your Modifications

The best thing you can do to maintain your Mustang after installing performance mods is to know the requirements for each one. Every upgrade you make impacts the vehicle differently and will have its own maintenance needs. For example, a cold air intake, which improves airflow and engine efficiency, has to be kept clean. Depending on where it’s installed, it may be more likely to pick up dust, dirt, and debris, which can clog it up and cause serious issues. An aftermarket exhaust system will also need regular inspection and maintenance to prevent leaks or corrosion, especially in regions with wet or icy conditions. Knowing how to keep your new modifications in the best possible shape will help them do their job and last a long time.

Stick to a Strict Oil and Fluid Replacement Schedule

A performance-oriented Mustang needs the cleanest possible oil and fluids to run properly. If you’ve installed mods that increase power, this could mean that the engine runs at a higher temperature. When that happens, fluids are more likely to break down due to the increased heat and friction. While you may have been able to get away with oil changes every 10,000 miles before, you will want to increase the frequency of your replacements when the engine is running hotter. More stress on your systems means that more fluids will be used up. By sticking to a strict replacement schedule, you can prevent serious problems down the road.

Monitor Temperature and Airflow

Due to the increased heat generated by a higher engine output, you’ll want to know what kinds of temperatures you’re dealing with. Digital monitors are a great way to know where your engine is operating so you can make adjustments accordingly. Upgraded Mustang radiators, fans, and intercoolers can help you control your temperature and improve the airflow so you don’t have to worry about overheating. You should also be sure to inspect your intake regularly to prevent blockage that can exacerbate overheating issues. The key to making the most of your mods is knowing how they’re affecting your vehicle and fine-tuning them to your advantage.

Tuner It Up

Once you’ve installed your mods, your work isn’t quite done. Mods can create impressive horsepower gains but they need to work in conjunction with the rest of your vehicle. Tuning your ECU will ensure that you get the right air-fuel ratio and that your timing is right for the added power. Without a proper Mustang tune, you could not only be leaving power on the table, but also endangering your engine. Mustang tune upkeep is an ongoing task that ensures your car runs correctly, and it’s one of the best Mustang maintenance tips to keep in your regimen.

Keep Detailed Maintenance Records

Outside of doing all the correct maintenance for your Mustang, it’s also incredibly important to keep detailed records of your upkeep. Life gets busy, and it’s not always easy to remember when and where you last changed your oil or what you did during the last ECU tuning. Log things like your mileage, the driving conditions, and the maintenance intervals to know when you should go through the next maintenance task. Should you decide to ever sell your Mustang, it will also be helpful and increase the value if you have these detailed service records. This is a great way to ensure that you’re maintaining a proactive maintenance schedule and that your Mustang will continue to perform at the very top of its ability. ​ When you’re ready for top-of-the-line Mustang mods, look no further than AmericanMuscle. With a range of modification options from the brands you trust, you can create your dream car. Plus, with fast shipping, you don’t have to wait to get yourself behind the wheel.