Upgrading during a recession???

It has been said many times that the speed shop is a totally unnecessary part of society and will be one of the first businesses to fall away when times get rough.
I have a different view.
I content that it is financially prudent and sound to upgrade a vehicle during a recession.
The problem here of course lies some where in the preconceived notions of our minds that are telling us an upgrade is simply a luxury and can even result in a less efficient and less dependable auto. This notion can not be more incorrect. Not all upgrades are simply luxury items. Many upgrades can and will improve the performance of a vehicle. Better performance is not always a luxury improvement.
Earlier today as I sat in a very small room with a with a single white chair off to one side I picked up a diesel builder magazine and flipped through for a few moments. Thumbing through the pages an ad for performance exhaust caught my eye. The ad commented on the improved performance and fuel economy one gets when installing said exhaust. This caused my mind to begin to ponder the after market world thinking of what upgrades may actually be (dare I say it) wise.
Now before I begin a list of parts let me explain why it may be wise to upgrade any vehicle.
We already know that smart money says the cheapest car you can buy is the one you already have. But you are tired of your ole truck and just need a change to something fresh and exciting. Well what if you made some improvements such as a performance programmer, intake, exhaust, lowering springs and maybe even a new set of rims? If you made these changes to the average 2 wheel drive pick up you will see improvements in power, acceleration, appearance, and handling. But you will also see improvements in fuel mileage and overall satisfaction with your vehicle which leads you to hold on to it rather than trade for a cookie cutter new car or truck.
The upgrade process can be done over a period of time as you pay for each part fully and won’t need to take out another major loan. Such upgrades that might be beneficial to some one trying to hang on to a vehicle might include the previously mentioned as well as improved ignition such as an MSD box, wires, distributor. Under drive pulleys will improve performance, fuel economy and extend the life of accessories such as alternators, power steering, belt tensioners etc.
Throttle body spacers used with stock throttle bodies will fit the bill as will headers, performance mufflers, performance air filters such as K&N. High performance spark plugs will help you burn the fuel you buy better while using less in the long run.
High flow catalytic converters will keep you legal and improve economy too.
If you are solely trying to upgrade to help beat out this tough economy then stay away from the obvious items which trade economy for speed. A good performance shop will advise you.
Finally a good window tint and new steering wheel can make your car feel like a different vehicle. To smell like a new car consider new carpet. You might be surprised what is offered for your car or truck.
By having these items professionally installed you improve performance and most shops will continue to help you and your vehicle after the purchase by giving advise and fixing those troubling gremlins we sometimes cause ourselves.

If your in the South East stop by and check out our shop we will be glad to help you make some wise improvements to your ride.

Thanks now lets get rockn’.