Honda-Tech - Honda Forum Discussion

Honda Accord: Interior Modifications

Depending on your taste, skill, and budget, there is a modification out there that guarantees to improve how you feel about your car's interior.

By Jerry Perez - March 16, 2015

This article applies to the Honda Accord (1990-2002).

Modifications aren't only for your car's exterior; there are a wide variety of aftermarket modifications for interior parts. Whether you are looking to add the cool glow of cabin lights, or change the entire appearance of your dash by installing a kit, there is something out there for you. Most of these modifications are simple and you can do them yourself. However, remember that if you are not familiar with your car's inner workings, then you are better off visiting a shop.

Interior Modifications

For the 1990 to 2002 Honda Accord, there are a few accessories that not only can spruce up your interior feel and look, but they are also simple to install and wont break the bank. Below is a modification breakdown by parts, cost, and skill level that will help you determine which one, if not all, you should choose.

Figure 1. Highly-customized interior.

Interior LED's

DIY Cost – $35 to $55 for parts

Professional Cost – $80 to $120 for parts; $90 to $130 for labor

Skill Level – Easy

Interior LED's are small high-intensity light bulbs that burn cool energy and light up much better than regular incandescent bulbs. Installing these are simple as you just hook up to the pre-existing wiring connections. The Precision LED kits have a good reputation for the Accord on the Honda-Tech forum. This is by far the cheapest and easiest way to modify your interior.

Dash Kits

DIY Cost – $150 to $550 for parts

Professional Cost – $180 to $650 for parts; $90 to $130 for labor

Skill Level – Easy

Dash kits allow you to give your Accord a totally new interior look. Whether your Accord comes with the factory wood dash and you dislike it, or it comes with black plastic and you prefer the wood look, there is a design out there for you. While shopping, keep in mind that most kits in the $150 to $300 price range are mainly stickers that lay over your existing trim. Upwards from there are actual dash moldings that offer better fit and look at a higher cost.

Custom Gauges

DIY Cost – $50 to $260 for parts

Professional Cost – $90 to $250 for parts; $130 to $210 for labor

Skill Level – Moderate; some wiring is necessary

These custom gauges will guarantee you a sweet new look every time you look at your vital info. They offer different looks and fonts, but also come in a variety of colors and patterns. For the Accord there are a variety of gauges on the market, but the Auto Meter brand is the most used one.

Steering Wheels

DIY Cost – $50 to $150 for parts

Professional Cost – $180 to $400 for parts; $150 to $500 for labor

Skill Level – Difficult; professional shop recommended

Switching out your steering wheel will impact the look and feel of your car tremendously. But due to the airbag disengaging and other electrical work required to swap steering wheels, it is recommended that a professional handles this install.

Racing Seats

DIY Cost – $250 to $650 for parts

Professional Cost – $350 to $900 for parts; $250 to $600 for labor

Skill Level – Moderate; requires larger wrenches/sockets and removing/installing mounting brackets

This is another inexpensive way to gain the biggest change in the look of your Accord's interior. Not only do most sports or racing seats offer more lateral support, but they also come in seductive colors like red. While brands can vary from generic to renowned, like SPARCO, it is imperative that you use the right mounting brackets to make sure you are safe.

Featured Video: Interior Modifications for the Honda Accord

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