The 'Day One' Mods & Customization Plan

[ArmadaBound]

Okay, after all the great debates, my head is clear and I'm 100% set on the NISMO. Now I'm in the fun "planning phase" while I wait for the official order books to open. So, what's everyone's "Day One" modification plan? The little things you do the first week you own the car to protect it and make it yours.

Here's my list so far:

Full Ceramic Coat: Especially if I get that Stealth Gray paint, this is non-negotiable. I want that finish protected from day one. I'm budgeting about $1,500 for a quality, professional job.

Window Tint: The Florida sun is no joke. I'm going with the legal limit: 28% on the front side windows and 15% on the rears and back glass. A must-do for heat rejection and privacy.

All-Weather Floor Mats: The factory carpeted mats will go straight into storage. I'm looking at a full set of laser-fitted liners from either WeatherTech or Husky Liners to handle the sand, mud, and kids.

De-badging: I might take off the main "ARMADA" lettering on the tailgate for a cleaner look. The NISMO badges, however, are definitely staying.

What's on your list? What are the essential first mods for a new truck like this?

 

[DIY_Dad]

Okay, after all the great debates, my head is clear and I'm 100% set on the NISMO. Now I'm in the fun "planning phase" while I wait for the official order books to open. So, what's everyone's "Day One" modification plan? The little things you do the first week you own the car to protect it and make it yours.

Here's my list so far:

Full Ceramic Coat: Especially if I get that Stealth Gray paint, this is non-negotiable. I want that finish protected from day one. I'm budgeting about $1,500 for a quality, professional job.

Window Tint: The Florida sun is no joke. I'm going with the legal limit: 28% on the front side windows and 15% on the rears and back glass. A must-do for heat rejection and privacy.

All-Weather Floor Mats: The factory carpeted mats will go straight into storage. I'm looking at a full set of laser-fitted liners from either WeatherTech or Husky Liners to handle the sand, mud, and kids.

De-badging: I might take off the main "ARMADA" lettering on the tailgate for a cleaner look. The NISMO badges, however, are definitely staying.

What's on your list? What are the essential first mods for a new truck like this?

That's a solid list. We're on the exact same wavelength. My list is almost identical, but I'd add two more:

- Paint Protection Film (PPF): Before the ceramic coat, I'd get clear PPF applied to the entire front bumper, the leading edge of the hood, and the mirror caps. It's expensive, but it's the only thing that will actually stop rock chips at highway speeds. It's a must for any new car I buy.

- Dash Cam: Hardwiring a good front-and-rear dash cam system is the first thing I do with any new vehicle. It's cheap insurance and gives you incredible peace of mind.

The floor liners are probably the most important mod on your list. With kids, they pay for themselves the first time a juice box gets spilled.

 

[QX_Luxury]

This is an interesting perspective. My approach to a new vehicle is quite different. I don't consider "modifications," but rather "preservation of the original design". The only item on your list I would entertain is a high-end ceramic coating, applied by my trusted detailer. It enhances the factory finish without altering it. However, I would not dream of applying aftermarket window tint. The factory privacy glass is designed to provide the optimal balance of visibility and heat rejection as determined by the engineers. Similarly, a luxury vehicle like the QX80 comes with high-quality, plush carpeted mats that are part of the interior design. Replacing them with utilitarian rubber liners would, in my opinion, cheapen the premium feel of the cabin. A well-designed vehicle should not require immediate alteration. The goal is to preserve its intended form.