The Chevy Cobalt is a sporty compact car with multiple customization opportunities. Cobalt owners often use the car daily, which makes a body kit, a spoiler, window tint, rims, and racing seats top customizations. The unique specifications of a Cobalt, such as the 7-inch deep wheels and attractively high backend, narrow the amount of customizations possibilities available. Understanding important details, such as the difference between a polyurethane and fiberglass body kit or how to spot a quality tint job that does not break the law, results in a custom Cobalt that owners love to drive to work each day.
1. Custom Rims
Custom rims are among the most dramatic changes an owner can make to a Chevy Cobalt. With a wide variety of options, it is important to find a set of rims with the appropriate bolt pattern. The Cobalt LT/LS use a four-lug bolt wheel, and the Cobalt SS has a five-lug bolt pattern. Wheel depth is an important measurement, so the wheel does not stick too far out from the fender or get too close to the frame. Most Cobalt wheels need to be 7 inches deep. The diameter of the wheels also needs to be an appropriate fit and present an appealing look. The best wheel diameters for a Cobalt are 15 to 17 inches. Chevy Cobalt rims are customizable with various paint colors and chrome finishes.
2. Body Kit
Chevy Cobalt body kits typically feature fiberglass or polyurethane. Polyurethane is a rubbery, flexible material. It is more durable than fiberglass and virtually unbreakable. The flexibility makes a polyurethane body kit easier to install. Because they are machine made, they typically have less surface flaws than a fiberglass equivalent. Paint does not stick to polyurethane very well, however, and the flexible material is liable to lose its shape in extreme heat or extreme cold. Fiberglass is a rigid material that keeps its shape better than polyurethane, no matter the weather condition. A fiberglass body kit is also less expensive and easier to paint. Aftermarket Cobalt full-body kits are typically unpainted, requiring prep work before installation.
3. Spoiler
A Chevy Cobalt spoiler adds to the performance and aesthetic of the car. Inspiration for the utility of a car spoiler came from the aerospace industry. In addition to aerodynamic designs that keep the rear-end of the Cobalt snug to the ground, there are lightweight carbon fiber spoilers that help the vehicle maintain control and reach top speeds. General spoilers add less to the performance of the car, but do contribute to a sportier look. Owners that add an aftermarket spoiler, meaning the original manufacturer did not install it, likely need to paint it to match the color of their Cobalt. In this case, it is important to purchase a spoiler that is easily paintable, without extra protective coats that make it difficult for paint to adhere.
4. Window Tint
To avoid a fine, check vehicle tint laws in your area before a window tint installation. The visibility spectrum ranges from 5 percent visibility tint at the darkest to 50 percent visibility at the lightest. Areas use these percentages to define the law. Inexpensive, low-quality window tint results in a purplish color that eventually bubbles up and peels off. High-quality window tint film comes from manufacturers such as 3M, Llumar, Solar Gard, and Sun Tech. Since hair, dirt, and bubbles are possibilities from an amateur installer, it is important to find a reputable service provider to install your Cobalt window tint. Tint installations on a Cobalt's back window were once a two- or three-piece process. The availability of large window tint film now makes it possible to do any window in one piece, for a higher quality result.
5. Racing Seats
Racing seats are an attractive customization that adds functionality to the Cobalt. Chevy Cobalt seats meant for everyday driving need to recline and have comfortable padding. Cobalts meant for the race track need to adhere to the rules and regulations of the track. Most tracks only allow FIA or SFI approved seats and brackets. Comfortable, adjustable racing seat brands for the Chevy Cobalt include Recaro, NRG, and Cobra.
How to Buy Chevy Cobalt Customization Materials on eBay
eBayfeatures a wide variety of wheels, window tints, racing seats, spoilers, and body kits for the Chevy Cobalt. To find the customization material of your choice, use the search field on any page. Use the Cobalt year and model to narrow your selection on the results page. To find high-quality products, buy from sellers with a long history of successful transactions and a high feedback rating. The most popular customizations for the Chevy Cobalt add style and performance. The car's unique body type and everyday drivability make visually attractive customizations, such as 20-inch wheels and a polyurethane body kit, ideal upgrades.