Dreaming of transforming your Nissan GT-R R35 into a true reflection of your style and performance goals? You’re not alone—the GT-R community thrives on personalization, turning each car into a unique masterpiece. Customizing your R35 isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about enhancing performance, turning heads, and making your car unmistakably yours.
This guide will break down the essential steps, insider tips, and key areas you need to consider when customizing your GT-R R35. Let’s dive in!
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How to Custom Your Nissan GT-R R35: A Comprehensive Guide
Customizing your Nissan GT-R R35 is a rewarding journey that transforms an already legendary machine into a unique reflection of your personality and performance goals. Whether you are chasing pure horsepower, aggressive styling, or balanced handling, there are countless ways to tailor the R35 to your vision. Let’s dive into what it takes to custom your Nissan GT-R R35, breaking the process into clear, actionable steps.
Understanding the Nissan GT-R R35 Custom Scene
Customizing a Nissan GT-R R35 isn’t just about slapping on aftermarket parts. It’s a blend of engineering, artistry, and driving passion. Enthusiasts and performance shops worldwide have developed specialized components to enhance every aspect of the GT-R, from its powertrain to its appearance and daily usability.
Key Areas of Customization
There are several popular upgrade categories for the R35:
- Performance tuning (engine, exhaust, intakes)
- Suspension and handling
- Exterior and body kits
- Interior upgrades
- Wheels and tires
- Electronics and software tuning
Let’s break these down even further.
Step-by-Step: How to Custom Your Nissan GT-R R35
Before you start, consider what you want from your GT-R. Is it for track days, street driving, shows, or a bit of everything? Your goals will shape your build. Here’s a structured approach:
1. Identify Your Priorities
Ask yourself:
- Do you want more power or improved reliability?
- Are looks more important than lap times?
- Is comfort a priority, or is weight reduction the aim?
Knowing this helps you plan upgrades in a logical sequence.
2. Power and Performance Enhancements
The R35’s VR38DETT engine is potent even in stock form, but there’s ample room for improvement.
Most Common Performance Mods:
- Cold Air Intakes: Replace factory airboxes to improve airflow and throttle response.
- Exhaust Systems: Upgrade to a cat-back or turbo-back exhaust for more power and a richer sound.
- ECU Tuning (E-Tune): Adjusts the car’s computer for higher performance thresholds, often yielding significant gains.
- Turbo Upgrades: Larger turbos mean more power but will require supporting mods (fuel system, cooling, etc.).
- Intercooler Upgrades: Essential for those increasing boost, helping to keep intake air temperatures in check.
- Fuel System Upgrades: High-flow fuel pumps and injectors ensure ample supply for big power builds.
Staged Upgrades Approach
Performance shops offer staged upgrade packages—Stage 1, Stage 2, and so on—bundling compatible parts for incremental gains:
- Stage 1: Intake, exhaust, and a basic tune.
- Stage 2: Adds upgraded intercooler and fuel components for medium gains.
- Stage 3+: Includes turbo upgrades, forged internals, and extensive tuning.
This staged system helps you build progressively, ensuring reliability at every step.
3. Handling and Suspension Improvements
Getting power to the ground effectively requires handling upgrades.
Popular Upgrades Include:
- Adjustable Coilovers: Fine-tune ride height and damping for street or track.
- Sway Bars: Reduce body roll and improve cornering grip.
- Upgraded Bushings: Replace rubber with polyurethane for sharper steering response.
- Brake Kits: High-performance discs, pads, and calipers increase stopping power—essential for high-speed applications.
4. Wheels and Tires
The right set of wheels and sticky tires complete any GT-R build.
- Lightweight Wheels: Reduce unsprung weight for better handling and acceleration.
- Wider Tires: Improve traction and aesthetics.
- Custom Finishes: Powder coating or anodizing adds a personal touch.
5. Aerodynamics and Body Kits
Aesthetics and performance often go hand in hand.
Trending Exterior Mods:
- Full Body Kits: Bolt-on kits from brands like Liberty Walk and VAD Design deliver bold widebody looks.
- Carbon Fiber Hoods & Fenders: Reduce weight and sharpen styling.
- Spoilers & Splitters: Useful for downforce at speed.
- Rear Diffusers/Canards: Enhance air flow and aggressive appearance.
These upgrades not only turn heads but also improve stability at high speeds.
6. Interior Upgrades
Driving your custom R35 should be a special experience inside and out.
- Performance Seats: Offer better support for spirited driving.
- Quality Steering Wheels: Enhance road feel and aesthetics.
- Upgraded Stereo/Infotainment: Modernizes the driving experience.
- Custom Trim: Alcantara, carbon fiber, or even colored stitching add premium flair.
7. Electronics and Software
Modern performance tuning often leverages advanced electronics.
- Custom Engine Maps: Tailor power delivery for daily driving, track days, or even economy.
- Aftermarket Gauges: Monitor critical metrics (boost, oil temp, AFR).
- Data Loggers & Lap Timers: Perfect for track-oriented users.
8. Maintenance and Supporting Mods
Big power means nothing without reliability.
- Oil Coolers: Vital for sustained high-speed driving.
- Transmission Upgrades: Strengthened clutches and gear sets to handle greater torque.
- Heat Management: Additional coolers and upgraded radiators protect vital systems.
Benefits of Customizing Your GT-R R35
Upgrading your GT-R offers more than increased speed. Here’s what to expect:
- Personalized Performance: Tailor every aspect to fit your driving style.
- Unique Styling: Stand out at every Cars & Coffee or track meet.
- Potential Resale Value Increase: Well-documented, tasteful mods can attract enthusiasts.
- Learning and Community: Dive into a vibrant tuning culture and learn valuable technical skills.
Challenges and Considerations
Customization isn’t without its challenges.
- Warranty Impact: Aftermarket parts can void factory warranties.
- Budget Control: High-end parts and labor costs add up; set expectations up front.
- Insurance Costs: Modified vehicles may require specialized coverage.
- Local Regulations: Ensure your modifications are street-legal in your area.
Practical Tips and Best Practices
Upgrading your GT-R is a project worth planning carefully. Here’s how to make it a success:
- Set a Budget: Factor in parts, labor, and potential shipping costs—especially for rare or imported components.
- Stage Your Build: Modify in phases to keep the car reliable and drivable after each round of upgrades.
- Work With Reputable Shops: Choose specialists familiar with the GT-R platform for tuning and installation.
- Document Everything: Keep a record of all parts, services, and tunes—great for troubleshooting and resale.
- Test and Adjust: After big changes, always test drive and fine-tune for optimal results.
- Join the Community: Online forums and local clubs are goldmines for advice and troubleshooting.
Cost Tips for Customizing a GT-R R35
Customizing the R35 can be a substantial financial commitment. Consider these tips to manage costs:
- Package Deals: Many shops bundle parts and labor for savings.
- Used Parts: Carefully sourced pre-owned components can cut costs.
- Do-It-Yourself (DIY): If you’re handy, tackling some upgrades yourself can save on labor.
- Shipping Costs: Large items (like body kits) can incur hefty shipping fees. Group purchases to save, or check for domestic suppliers.
- Resale Value: Well-planned modifications often retain value—prioritize popular and reputable brands.
A Closer Look at Custom GT-R R35 Brands and Shops
Within the R35 community, several brands and shops stand out for their expertise and innovation:
- Jotech Motorsports: Renowned for powerful, reliable engine and drivetrain packages.
- STM Tuned: Specializes in hard-to-find performance parts and tuning for serious track builds.
- GT-RR: Provides comprehensive upgrades—from brakes to full aesthetic packages.
- Liberty Walk and VAD Design: Leaders in dramatic, high-quality body kits.
- Boost Controlled Performance and Litchfield Motors: Offer staged upgrade packages, making it easy to plan your build.
- Performance Speed Shop and Migtuned: Excellent for specialty carbon components and custom electronic tuning.
Consulting with specialists from these areas ensures your GT-R gets the expertise it deserves.
Conclusion
Customizing your Nissan GT-R R35 is a thrilling way to create a car that truly reflects your tastes and ambitions. From subtle performance tweaks to extreme styling overhauls, the options are nearly limitless. By setting clear goals, planning your build in stages, and working with experienced professionals, you’ll enjoy every mile in a machine tailored just for you. With responsible budgeting and careful sourcing, your GT-R can become a showstopper without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the first upgrade I should consider for my Nissan GT-R R35?
Start with a quality ECU tune and an upgraded exhaust. These mods offer noticeable power gains and set the stage for further enhancements.
Are widebody kits legal for street use?
This depends on local laws and regulations. Always check with your regional motor vehicle authority to ensure your modifications are street-legal.
How much does it cost to custom-build a GT-R R35?
Simple modifications (like intakes and exhausts) may cost a few thousand dollars. Full builds with body kits, big turbos, and suspension can easily exceed $50,000. Costs vary based on parts, labor, and shipping.
Will modifying my GT-R affect its reliability?
When done properly and in stages, most modifications do not harm reliability. However, extreme builds or poor-quality parts may shorten component life. Professional installation and tuning are vital.
Can I revert my GT-R back to stock for resale or compliance?
Most upgrades can be reversed, especially bolt-on parts. Keep original components when possible if you plan to restore stock condition in the future.