Hi guys,

My name is Mark. Nice to meet you I'm obviously new here but I would like to introduce myself. I'm a noob I guess but I can do a little wrenching and want to learn how to do a lot more!

With introductions out of the way, my girlfriend drives a 2010 Civic LX to be specific and I she loves it. I'd like her birthday present to be a fix-up or upgrade that pretty much any average driver, not just a car guy (or girl!) will appreciate. Not to be repetitive, but she could care less about top or bottom end speed. I just don't want to spend all that time and hear "I don't really see a difference," which is why I'm fishing for help here. Take it easy on the noob!

Thanks!

Edit: Let's keep it under $500... I mean a gesture is nice and all but... haha

 

Lowering springs

 

Since its an LX, I would imagine you don't have anything fancy for a headunit (stereo) in the car. There are several options out there today, and I'm a big fan of Android-based headunits, since they offer GPS and a vast majority of the apps you can use on any Android-based tablet/phone. All you need to do is tether it to your cellphone, and you can stream Spotify/Pandora/etc... all on a nice big touch screen.

I've had a couple Pumpkin-brand headunits that fit the bill, and for sub-$500 you should be able to get one along with the required install kit.

Pumpkin Universal 7 Inch 1024*600 Touchscreen Quad Core Android 5.1 Double Din Car Stereo GPS Navigation System support DAB+ AV Output 3G Wifi OBD2 Steering Wheel Control

 

Welcome buddy! Wouldn't hurt to add a CAI {Cold air intake}, and it isnt expensive in any way. Should be a good starterspoint imo

 

Definitely on the table. Found this guide: Lowered Suspension Advantages and Disadvantages - CarsDirect

Specifically interested in "for the cheapest option," but I don't want cheap to mean super crappy and damaging in any way to the car in the long run.

From the link: "For the cheapest combination, pairing Eibach Race springs with a cheap, adjustable shock such as the Tokico Illunima can allow you the choice of both spring height and spring rate in 25lb/in increments, without leaving behind changes in damping force."

That's more up my alley if I decide to go the intake route on my WRX.

 

Actually, if you are stock wheels, new rims and tires (new to you rims) can be had for 500 a set if you shop around on craigslist etc.

Changes a cars look dramatically that anyone can appreciate and if done right can be had on your budget if you don't mind used.

 

Welcome. Have you considered doing tint? And I would do a drop in filter instead of an actual intake, just to free up more money.

 

For me and my wrx yeah, that's a goal haha. For her and her civic, she'd think I was an idiot so I guess that defeats the purpose of the gift. But kind of reminds me that I want these. Different forum different topic though.

Subaru STI (2015-2017). #B3110VA000: STI Alloy Wheel (Base Model Only)

 

Tint is an idea. Have to look into legality of it though. I believe full tint is illegal in Chicago, where I'm close to. Although I see gang bangers with full tint not getting pulled over. That's life.

 

Nicer tires or better brake pads would change the car dramatically.

 

I've never tried the brake pad route but I've been exploring custom wheels or stereo options. Nothing really captured me yet as a sure thing. But this thread has been awesome for ideas. Feels like Christmas shopping!!