Ever wondered how to make your 2013 Dodge Charger RT truly one-of-a-kind? Customizing your ride isn’t just about style—it’s about expressing your personality and enhancing performance. For Charger enthusiasts, knowing how to customize wisely can make all the difference.
In this article, you’ll discover step-by-step guidance, practical tips, and creative ideas for transforming your Charger RT. Whether you want a head-turning look or upgraded performance, we’ve got your customization journey covered.
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How to Customise Your 2013 Dodge Charger R/T: The Ultimate Guide
If you’re an owner or fan of the 2013 Dodge Charger R/T, you already appreciate its powerful 5.7L HEMI V8 and classic muscle car looks. But what if you want your Charger to truly stand out? A custom Charger R/T is more than just a statement; it’s an extension of your personality and driving style. Let’s explore how you can create your dream 2013 Dodge Charger R/T, covering everything from body kits and performance upgrades to practical customization tips.
Understanding the Basics: What Does “Custom” Mean for Your Charger R/T?
Customizing your Charger R/T can mean anything from subtle interior tweaks to an all-out performance and appearance overhaul. Here are the three main aspects owners typically focus on:
- Visual Styling: Upgrading the appearance with new body kits, grilles, spoilers, decals, and wheels.
- Performance Enhancements: Modifying the engine, exhaust, suspension, and more to get extra horsepower and improve handling.
- Functional Upgrades: Improving comfort, convenience, and tech features inside and outside the car.
Let’s break down each area so you know your options, the benefits, and essential tips for a successful build.
1. Visual Styling: Make Your Charger Stand Out
The 2013 Charger R/T already has menacing good looks, but a few custom touches can take it to another level.
Body Kits and Ground Effects
Body kits change the whole vibe of your car, adding aggressive lines, lowering the stance, and sometimes improving aerodynamics.
– Front and Rear Bumpers: Swap out the stock bumpers for muscular, sporty designs.
– Side Skirts: These give your Charger a more grounded, action-ready posture.
– Spoilers and Wings: Add downforce and track-inspired flair.
Popular Types of Kits:
- Fiberglass: Lightweight, paintable, and affordable, but can be more fragile.
- Polyurethane: Flexible and durable, perfect for daily drivers.
- Carbon Fiber: Ultimate weight savings and a premium aesthetic, but at a higher price.
Custom Grilles
A new grille creates a unique front-end look. Choose from honeycomb, mesh, or billet styles to complement your Charger’s attitude.
Wheels and Tires
Wheels completely transform your Charger’s character:
– Go bigger (20”+), choose bold colors, or select deep-dish styles for a modern muscle feel.
– Pair new wheels with performance or ultra-high-performance tires for better grip and stance.
Decals, Lighting, and Small Touches
- Custom decals, racing stripes, or blackout packages give your Charger a signature motif.
- Aftermarket headlights, taillights, and LED accents enhance style and visibility.
2. Performance Enhancements: Turning Power into Thrill
The 2013 Charger R/T isn’t just about looks—its HEMI engine craves more power. Owners often chase a blend of speed, sound, and driving excitement. Here’s how you can safely and effectively upgrade performance.
Engine Mods
- Cold Air Intake (CAI):
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Delivers more oxygen-rich air to the engine, boosting power and throttle response.
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Performance Exhaust System:
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Upgrades the sound, increases horsepower, and adds a sporty growl.
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Aftermarket Headers and Mid-Pipes:
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Enhance exhaust flow, freeing up power and torque.
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Performance Tune:
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Reprograms the car’s computer for increased power, improved shifting, and throttle response.
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Supercharger Kit:
- The ultimate power boost, adding significant horsepower (expect 100+ hp gains depending on the setup).
Suspension and Handling Upgrades
- Lowering Springs or Coilovers: Lower the car for better stance and handling response.
- Performance Sway Bars: Reduce body roll during cornering.
- Upgraded Bushings: For sharper, more connected road feel.
Brake Upgrades
- Big Brake Kits: Larger rotors and calipers for fade-free stopping power.
- Performance Pads and Stainless Lines: Increased initial bite and pedal feel.
3. Functional and Interior Upgrades: Comfort Meets Custom
A true custom build isn’t just skin-deep. Enhancing your Charger’s comfort, tech, and utility make every drive more enjoyable.
Interior Personalization
- Custom Seat Covers or Upholstery: Go for leather, suede, or even bold colors and embroidered logos.
- Steering Wheels, Shift Knobs, and Pedals: Install sportier components for tactile improvement.
- Ambient Lighting: Add atmosphere and a modern touch to your cockpit.
Tech Upgrades
- Upgraded Infotainment: Install bigger screens, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, or premium speakers.
- Dash Cams and Security Systems: Protect your investment and record your adventures.
Other Functional Upgrades
- Remote Start Systems: Ideal for all-weather convenience.
- Tinted Windows: Enhance privacy and reduce heat.
4. Practical Tips and Best Practices for Customizing
Customizing is exciting but requires careful planning. Here’s how to set yourself up for success.
- Set a Realistic Budget
- List your priorities. Decide if you want to do everything at once or in stages.
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Remember: Some upgrades (like big brakes, superchargers, or full body kits) can get expensive. Always account for installation and potential tuning costs.
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Plan Your Build
- Start with a vision or theme—aggressive street car, daily driver comfort, or track day star.
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Sketch or use online configurators to visualize your finished Charger.
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Source Quality Parts
- Choose reputable brands. Some aftermarket parts look tempting but may not fit or last as long.
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Consider buying major upgrades like body kits, wheels, or suspension from well-known suppliers specializing in Chargers.
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DIY vs Professional Installation
- Many cosmetic mods (like decals or interior trim) can be installed at home with basic tools.
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Mechanical upgrades (e.g., suspension, forced induction, or brakes) often require professional installation to ensure safety and performance.
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Check Local Laws
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Some mods (tinted windows, loud exhausts, lighting, or superchargers) may have restrictions. Always check before you buy.
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Stay Balanced
- For daily driven cars, avoid modifications that compromise ride comfort or reliability. Performance mods often produce more noise, vibration, or require premium fuel.
5. Cost Tips: Customizing on a Budget
Customizing can get pricey, but smart strategies let you get more bang for your buck.
- Shop during sales or check for open-box and clearance deals.
- Join Charger enthusiast forums and groups. Members often list gently used parts at a discount.
- If shipping large parts (like body kits or wheels), compare rates and check if sellers offer free shipping.
- Bundling upgrades (buying multiple parts together) can save on shipping and get you package discounts.
6. Bringing It All Together
Customizing your 2013 Dodge Charger R/T is a journey that blends creativity, passion, and smart decision-making. Whether you aim for dramatic visual changes, track-ready handling, or a boost in horsepower, there are countless options at your fingertips.
Start with a plan, invest in quality parts, and enjoy making your Charger uniquely yours. With the right upgrades, your R/T isn’t just a car—it’s a reflection of your drive and personality.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What mods increase horsepower the most on a 2013 Charger R/T?
Supercharger kits, performance tunes, and free-flowing exhausts with new headers provide the biggest horsepower gains. Even a well-matched cold air intake and tune can add noticeable power.
2. Are body kits easy to install myself?
Some body kit pieces (like spoilers or side skirts) can be installed with basic tools; others, such as bumpers or widebody fenders, might require professional fitting, paint, and alignment for best results.
3. Will customizing affect my warranty or insurance?
Some engine and electrical mods may void parts of your factory warranty or raise your insurance costs. Always check with your dealer and insurance provider before making major upgrades.
4. How can I make my Charger sound louder or deeper?
A performance exhaust system—especially a cat-back or axle-back kit—will make your Charger sound bolder. Muffler deletes are the loudest option, but not always street-legal.
5. What should I upgrade first if I want better handling?
Start with wider, stickier tires, then upgrade to better suspension components like lowering springs or coilovers. Upgraded sway bars and bushings offer further improvements with minimal impact on ride comfort.
Customizing your 2013 Dodge Charger R/T lets you stand out and enjoy every mile. Take your time, do your homework, and remember—building your dream car should be as thrilling as driving it!