Hey guys,

So how are you guys modding your cars? I'm not all that mechanically savvy and I have next to no tools so I'd probably want a shop to do it.

I've been finding that most chain stores won't do anything with customer-supplied parts. Are most people just finding smaller shops and paying them labor or are most owners talented enough to do installs themselves?

 

I do basic mods I.e. Intake, plenum spacer, spark plugs, oil changes etc. myself. Rest of stuff find a reputable private shop. Where are you located?

 

I'm in Reno, NV where there isn't even an Infiniti dealership thus I'm driving one of the 7 Gs on the roads around here. Yeah I can do simple mods as well but most shops I've called up aren't interested in non-routine work. Most won't even install brake pads if they didn't buy 'em.

 

My first advice would be to buy a Haynes/Chiltons manual for your car and a few more basic tools. Learn from the manual and begin to do more and more on your own. You will spend waaaay too much money if you plan on doing a decent amount of mods as labor adds up quickly. If that's not an attractive option I would research local car clubs, there might be a G or Z club and join. You will find more people there that know their way around these cars and should be able to help out. Our local club actually has 2 Tech Days a year where we get together and work on our cars with each other. that's how I learned a LOT about my G. They might also know good shops in the area that can help you out.

Another option would be to go online and look up reviews for local mechanics, Yelp is a good place to start.

 

That is indeed great advice. I'll look into the manual. Yeah I already looked for any clubs but yeah...my town is very backwards for any imports. This is a hick type of town that loves its trucks and jeeps.

 

It all depends on how intense you plan on getting, for simple stuff like maintenance, plenum spacer install, exhaust, just buy/ borrow some tools, look up a DIY and get your hands dirty! For the money you'll save by not going to a shop you can easily afford any tools that you'll need.

OR find someone in the area who's experienced with cars (doesn't need to be import specific for simple bolt ons, all the same principles of wrenching carry over) and befriend them :P A 6 pack and good company can go a long ways with some retired guys who like cars