Thinking about making your 2017 Charger RT stand out from the crowd? Customizing your ride is a great way to reflect your personality and boost both style and performance. With so many options out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by where to begin or what upgrades make the biggest difference.
In this article, you’ll find practical tips, step-by-step advice, and creative ideas to help you customize your 2017 Charger RT, whether you’re after a subtle refresh or head-turning transformation.
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How to Custom Build Your 2017 Dodge Charger R/T
Owning a 2017 Dodge Charger R/T means having a modern muscle car that offers classic power and style. But what if you want your Charger to stand out even more from the crowd? Customizing your 2017 Charger R/T lets you enhance its appearance, boost performance, and make it a true reflection of your tastes.
Let’s break down everything you need to know about customizing your 2017 Charger R/T—from simple mods to complete transformations—so you can hit the streets with pride.
Why Customize Your 2017 Charger R/T?
The Charger R/T is a fantastic car right off the lot, but customization can bring it to a whole new level:
- Make your Charger unique
- Boost performance or efficiency
- Enhance comfort or technology
- Improve resale value (with tasteful mods)
- Show off your personality and style
Whether you want aggressive styling, a meaner exhaust note, or more power under the hood, the options are endless!
Top Areas To Customize on a 2017 Charger R/T
Here’s a broad roadmap of what you can do:
1. Exterior Styling Upgrades
First impressions count. Transform your Charger’s look with these popular exterior mods:
- Body Kits: Full body kits or individual parts (front splitters, side skirts, rear diffusers) add an aggressive, sporty flair.
- Custom Hoods: Lightweight hoods (fiberglass or carbon fiber) not only look cool but can aid heat dissipation.
- Spoilers & Wings: Practical for high speeds, plus they add that unmistakable performance appearance.
- Grilles and Badges: Swap out your grille or badges for something bolder or blacked-out.
- Vinyl Wraps or Graphics: Totally change your car’s color or add racing stripes without permanent paint.
- Custom Lighting: Smoked tail lights, HID/LED headlights, and accent lighting modernize your look.
2. Performance Enhancements
A Charger R/T is quick, but you can make it downright exhilarating. Top performance mods include:
- Cold Air Intake (CAI): Improves engine breathing; adds a throatier sound.
- Exhaust Systems: Cat-back or axle-back exhausts mean more power and an assertive growl.
- Tuning and Programmers: Computer flash tunes optimize your ECU for increased horsepower.
- Headers and High-Flow Cats: Reduce back-pressure for better flow and sound.
- Suspension Upgrades: Lowering springs, coilovers, or sway bars improve handling and stance.
- Brake Kits: Larger rotors and better pads ensure you can stop as well as you go.
3. Wheels and Tires
Changing your wheels is one of the fastest ways to change your car’s character.
- Aftermarket Wheels: Go bigger, wider, or with custom finishes (matte black, gunmetal, etc.).
- Performance Tires: Choose sticky summer tires for grip, or all-seasons for daily driving.
- Wheel Spacers or Studs: Help achieve that flush, muscular look.
4. Interior Upgrades
Don’t forget where you spend your time! Some popular choices:
- Custom Seats or Upholstery: Add comfort, contrast stitching, or suede/leather materials.
- Steering Wheel Upgrades: Flat-bottom, Alcantara, or racing-inspired wheels.
- Tech Additions: Upgraded audio, navigation, or infotainment systems.
- Lighting: Ambient LED lighting makes nighttime drives special.
- Floor Mats and Pedals: All-weather mats and race-inspired pedals finish the look.
5. Specialty Customizations
Take it a step further with:
- Forced Induction Systems: Superchargers or turbo kits for massive horsepower (requires supporting mods).
- Nitrous Kits: For short bursts of power—primarily for drag tracks.
- Custom Paint Jobs or Airbrushing: Be bold with true one-off graphics and colors.
- Window Tinting: Protects from sunlight and adds privacy.
Step-by-Step: Planning and Executing Your Charger Customization
Customizing your car can be overwhelming, but with the right approach, it’s manageable and fun.
1. Define Your Goals
- Do you want looks, performance, daily comfort, or a bit of each?
- Make a list of must-haves vs. nice-to-haves.
2. Set Your Budget
- Factor in not just parts, but labor, shipping, and installation.
- Build in a little cushion for surprise costs.
3. Prioritize Your Modifications
Start with basics, then move to complex projects:
- Cosmetic mods (badges, lighting, simple wraps)
- Performance mods (intakes, exhaust, mild tuning)
- Wheels/tires for both looks and handling
- Big upgrades (body kits, suspension, forced induction)
4. Research Quality Brands
- Look for well-regarded brands and parts specifically made for the 2017 Charger R/T.
- OEM-fit parts reduce installation headaches.
5. Plan for Professional Help
- Some mods (like tunes, exhaust/install, or big bodywork) are best handled by professionals.
- DIY is rewarding if you’re comfortable, but know your limits!
Cost Tips and Smart Shopping Advice
Customizing your Charger can be as affordable or expensive as you want. Here are some suggestions to keep costs in check:
- Bundle Parts: Some shops offer discounts for buying several mods together (e.g., whole body kits).
- Factor Shipping: Large parts (like bumpers, hoods, or wheels) can be costly to ship. Look for local pickup if possible.
- Used Parts Market: Great deals can be found on forums or classifieds; just verify fitment and condition.
- DIY Installations: You can save on labor for bolt-on mods or minor cosmetic changes.
- Group Buys and Holiday Sales: Watch for annual sales or group deals for significant savings.
- Return Policies/Warranty: Ensure any parts you buy have a return policy in case of fitment issues.
Common Challenges and Solutions
While customizing is exciting, here are a few things to watch out for:
- Fitment Issues: Double-check part numbers and compatibility. Sometimes aftermarket parts need minor tweaking.
- Warranty Concerns: Some mods (like tunes or forced induction) may void factory warranties.
- Legal Considerations: Not all modifications are street-legal in every state (window tints, exhaust sound, lights).
- Insurance: Notify your insurance provider of major mods to ensure appropriate coverage.
- Resale Value: Overly extreme modifications may limit your buyer pool down the road.
Practical Tips and Best Practices
- Start Small: Modest changes can make a big difference and build your confidence for bigger projects.
- Document Everything: Keep track of what you install and when—helpful for maintenance and resale.
- Join Communities: Charger forums and clubs are helpful for advice, support, and inspiration.
- Maintain Your Car: Performance mods can increase maintenance needs; keep up with scheduled care.
- Balance: A well-rounded build is more satisfying than an overbuilt one-trick pony.
Showcasing Popular Customization Ideas
Here’s an idea of popular modifications among Charger R/T owners:
- Satin black hood wrap and matching wheels for a stealth look
- Cat-back exhaust and cold air intake for sound and minor power gains
- Aggressive front splitter with side skirts and rear diffuser
- Heated, upgraded steering wheel and leather seat covers
- Lowering springs for improved handling and a sporty stance
Maintenance and Longevity Considerations
Custom cars need thoughtful care:
- Regularly inspect modifications for wear or damage.
- Keep software updated if you use engine tuners.
- Check for loose or rattling parts, especially after heavy driving.
- Schedule alignment checks after installing new suspension or lowering kits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it difficult to install a body kit on a 2017 Charger R/T?
Body kit installation varies by complexity. Simple bolt-on kits can often be installed at home if you’re handy. More involved kits, requiring cutting or painting, are best left to professionals to ensure proper fit and finish.
Will modifications void my vehicle’s warranty?
Some modifications, especially those affecting the drivetrain or computer, may affect your warranty. Cosmetic mods usually don’t. Always consult your dealer or warranty paperwork, and be aware of what might void coverage.
What’s the most noticeable performance mod for my Charger R/T?
A cat-back exhaust or a high-quality cold air intake offers immediate improvements in sound and light bump in performance. If you seek more significant gains, consider engine tuning, but only with supporting modifications.
How can I make sure parts fit my exact car model?
Always buy parts specifically listed for the 2017 Charger R/T. Double-check part numbers and model years, as Dodge made design changes even within the same generation. Reach out to suppliers if you’re ever unsure.
Is customizing my 2017 Charger R/T expensive?
Costs vary greatly. Small appearance tweaks can be under $100, while widebody kits, wheels, or forced induction can run into the thousands. Setting a clear budget and prioritizing mods will help you spend wisely and avoid surprises.
Concluding Summary
Customizing your 2017 Dodge Charger R/T is an exciting way to express yourself and enhance your driving experience. Whether you’re aiming for head-turning style, tire-shredding performance, or just a more comfortable cabin, there are countless routes to explore. Plan carefully, shop smart, and enjoy the journey—your Charger deserves it!