Are there a bunch of Mods that don't really provide value? NOT cash value!

I've kind of moved into a point in life that I don't want to waste energy on money on things that don't really provide any return in either functionality or enjoyment.

I see a bunch of mods that really only seem to provide a way to extract money from wallets.

I've been wanting to start this discussion for a little while, but I don't really want to bash on anyone. I just have a hard time spending say $300 on a mod that I'm not really going to get anything out of. I'd way rather spend that money going on some fun experience like going on an off road trip or something.

Thoughts?


I'm NOT talking monetary value here. Just value, quality of life kind of stuff.

 

I do agree. The thing is your idea of a worthwhile mod can be very different than my idea or some one else?

I am thankful that most here agree that the chrome on the Tacos is crap because that is where I spent a lot of time and was happy for the info and mods posted about it.

I also think the taillight arrangement is dumb. I wonder how many other Taco folks even know how flawed they are. Again, I'm thankful that there are folks here working to make that better with a quick and simple mod.

If someone wants a bro lift to stuff on 24in rims for showing off at the mall? Eh. Their truck and their problems. . .

 

Was just about to ask him if he was trying to get someone fired...

 

Agreed... as I get older, I find myself spending more money on “experiences” vs “products”. I only apply mods to my vehicles that are of practical value, aka function over form. Examples include; brake controller, anytime camera w/front cam, suspension assistance for towing, etc. No ego improvements or visual enhancements... not negative commentary on those that do such mods, just no longer of interest to me (an age thing).

 

That's why I didn't really list the "crap" mods in my head because everyone has a right to do what they want with their truck.... I just kinda hate to see a mod that people do to a truck under the idea that it'll increase the longevity of the engine when regular maintenance will take you to 350,000 miles.... or that mod that nobody has proven any gains in horsepower.

 

I'm definitely getting older..... though when I need to repaint my truck, it's going to be some type of green. Even if it still has the steel wheels on it!

 

I'm more of a is this mod worth me eating ramen noodles for 2 months kind of guy.

 

Not to go all philosophical, but you have to define value first.

Return of financial investment? Almost no mods add value to a trucks sticker price. Mods -any mods- are the biggest depreciating assets you could buy, period. Youre not getting money back after you sink five grand into a fancy lift, so you have to define value in terms that aren't money based.

Quality of life? Do the puddle lights and tailgate inserts and vinyl hood wraps put a smile on your face every time you approach the truck? Some people say it's worth the price. I don't, but some people do, and good for them if they like it.

If a movie costs five dollars an hour for an entertainment experience, how many hours are you going to spend on $500 leather covers to make it worthwhile? Some people say it's worth it to park their butt on color matched leather.

Define value, and you have your answer. People mod because it gives them emotional benefit. I'm like you though, I'd rather throw my money away on the travel and the experience, and I try not to tie my emotions to things. I'm not very successful in saying it's only a thing, but I try.

 

Awesome way to think of it.

 

The only mod I think will add value to a Tacoma is a supercharger. Thats about it.

Any money put in vehicles is money wasted.
To include floor mats, tint, running boards etc. none of it adds value to a vehicle.

I am starting to feel the same way. I’ve pumped the brakes on moding my truck because that money is best put to other use right now. Like on my house or in my retirement or a vacation.

To each their own but I can’t fathom putting $20,000 in mods like some do. Its just not me.

Don’t get me wrong I dig my aftermarket heated leather seats and luxury tint but I’ve drawn a bigger line lately.

 

I used to do mods for the "look" of the truck when I had my 08 back in my early 20s... spent waaay too much on big chrome wheels and low profile tires... which just made its usability decrease...

Now days I dont really plan on spending 5k on the look of the vehicle but rather what will make it more useful and enjoyable to own.

 

That's probably exactly where I'm at. I'm learning to be better at it, but I'm probably not 100% committed to it either.

 

I'm going back to modify the original post..... I'm not talking about increase the monetary value of the truck at all. Nothing really does that.

 

You betcha! I'm in your camp. Yea, I'm 'older', but I've pretty much always been this way.

There is nothing wrong with some form/style. But for me function is #1. If I can add some form for low incremental cost while improving function, I'll do it.

IE when I wanted lighter and bigger wheels for my SCCA ride, I paid more for ones that looked good. But the weight loss and larger sticky rubber was the function I was really after.

 

I like your way of thinking. Some mods make me smile more, and some add functionality to get me to places I feel I otherwise couldn't. That allows me to spend my money travelling to those trickier to reach places.

Can you say that louder for the people in the back?

 

Bunk.

In 90% of the cases a quality trailer will meet the need. Or even a van.

While I 'wanted' a truck for years, I built a trailer that was quite flexible in function and durable in use. And you don't worry about it too much when someone wants to borrow it.

 

Yes, I can't believe the number of ridiculous mods I see around here that seem like a complete waste of money. But to each their own.

 

you could argue the fact that all mods are a waste of money.

 

That's funny. I've been that was since a kid but more wanted performance. As others in the import scene was lowering the suspension or adding fart cans I was doing turbo upgrades and drivetrain mods. I could fully tune a turbo car by age 18. My cars looked like a stock 4 banger but would eat up old guys in there supercharge mustang's and camaros. I miss those days