2017 Honda Accord Sport Body Kits: Styles & Options

Alright guys, let's talk about jazzing up your 2017 Honda Accord Sport! You've got a sweet ride, and maybe you're looking to give it that extra edge, that custom look that screams you. That's where body kits come into play. Think of a body kit as a set of custom exterior car parts designed to change the aesthetics and sometimes the aerodynamics of your vehicle. For the 2017 Accord Sport, these kits can include things like front and rear bumpers, side skirts, spoilers, and sometimes even fender flares. They're a fantastic way to make your Accord stand out from the crowd, giving it a more aggressive, sporty, or even a sleek, refined appearance, depending on the style you choose. Whether you're aiming for a track-inspired look or just want to smooth out those factory lines, there's a body kit out there for you. We'll dive into the different types of kits, what to look for, and how to get that perfect custom fit.

Understanding Body Kit Components

So, what exactly goes into a body kit for your 2017 Honda Accord Sport? It's not just one big piece, guys. Usually, a kit is a collection of several parts designed to work together. The most common components you'll find are: front bumper covers, rear bumper covers, and side skirts. Let's break these down. The front bumper cover is often the most dramatic change. It can lower the front of your car visually, add larger air intakes for a more aggressive look, and sometimes incorporate different styling elements like sharper lines or integrated lip spoilers. Moving to the rear, the rear bumper cover can do something similar, giving your Accord a more muscular stance, perhaps with a diffuser-like element at the bottom to mimic performance cars. Side skirts are installed along the rocker panels between the front and rear wheels. They help visually lower the car's profile and tie the front and rear bumper designs together, creating a cohesive, ground-hugging appearance. Beyond these core pieces, some kits might include a rear spoiler or wing. Spoilers are designed to disrupt airflow, often to reduce drag or increase downforce, but on a street car, they're largely a stylistic choice, adding that sporty, finished look. You might also see fender flares, which add width to your car's fenders, giving it a more robust and muscular presence. When you're shopping, pay attention to what's included in the kit. Some are comprehensive, offering all these pieces, while others might just be a simple front lip and side skirts. Understanding these components will help you decide what look you're going for and what you need to achieve it.

Material Matters: Durability and Fitment

When you're investing in a body kit for your 2017 Honda Accord Sport, the material it's made from is a huge deal. It affects everything from durability and weight to how well it fits and how easy it is to paint. The most common materials you'll encounter are polyurethane and fiberglass (often referred to as FRP - Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic). Polyurethane is generally considered the king of aftermarket body kit materials for daily drivers. Why? Because it's flexible and highly durable. This means it can withstand minor impacts, like parking lot bumps or hitting small road debris, without cracking or shattering. This flexibility also makes polyurethane parts less prone to damage during shipping and installation. The trade-off? Polyurethane parts can sometimes be a bit more expensive than fiberglass, and they might require more specialized prep work before painting, though modern urethane is often very paint-ready. Fiberglass, on the other hand, offers a more rigid structure. It's typically lighter than polyurethane and can be molded into very sharp, intricate designs, which is why you see it often in high-performance or show car kits. Fiberglass kits are often more affordable upfront. However, they are much more brittle. A hard impact can easily crack or shatter fiberglass. They also tend to require more fitting and sanding by a professional body shop to ensure a perfect, flush fit with your Accord's body lines. The resin in fiberglass can also be sensitive to certain chemicals. So, for a daily driver where you want peace of mind against minor dings, polyurethane is often the superior choice. If you're building a show car and prioritize sharp lines and are working with a skilled installer who can do the necessary prep work, fiberglass is a viable option. Always check product descriptions carefully to know what material you're buying.

Choosing Your Style: Aggressive vs. Subtle

Now for the fun part, guys: choosing the style of body kit for your 2017 Honda Accord Sport! Do you want your car to look like it just rolled off a race track, or do you prefer a more understated, classy upgrade? This is where you really get to express your personality. Aggressive body kits are all about making a statement. Think sharp lines, deep contours, oversized air intakes, prominent diffusers, and larger, more noticeable spoilers. These kits often mimic the design language of high-performance sports cars or track-day machines. They lower the visual center of gravity, making your Accord look lower and wider, with a much more menacing presence on the road. If you want your car to turn heads and look like a true performance machine, an aggressive kit is the way to go. On the flip side, subtle body kits focus on refining the existing lines of the 2017 Accord Sport. They might involve a slightly lower front lip, more sculpted side skirts that integrate smoothly with the factory body, and a cleaner, perhaps smaller, rear spoiler. The goal here is to enhance the car's natural sportiness without making it look overly modified. These kits offer a more OEM+ (Original Equipment Manufacturer plus) feel, looking like a factory option that was just better. They provide a cleaner, more sophisticated look that's perfect if you want a premium appearance without the attention-grabbing vibe of an aggressive kit. When making your choice, consider where you'll be driving your Accord. Very low-profile or aggressive kits might be more prone to scraping on driveways or speed bumps. Think about the overall aesthetic you're aiming for and what best represents your taste.

Installation: DIY vs. Professional

Okay, so you've picked out the perfect body kit for your 2017 Honda Accord Sport, and you're itching to get it installed. Now, the big question: can you do it yourself, or should you leave it to the pros? DIY installation is definitely possible for some body kit components, especially simpler ones like bolt-on spoilers or front lip spoilers that attach with screws and adhesive. Side skirts and basic bumper covers can also be DIY-friendly if you have the right tools, a good set of instructions, and a decent amount of mechanical aptitude. You'll typically need basic hand tools, possibly a drill, and good quality automotive adhesive tape or sealant. The key to a successful DIY install is patience and meticulousness. You need to ensure proper alignment before drilling or attaching anything permanently. Test fitting is crucial – don't just assume it'll fit perfectly out of the box. Sanding, priming, and painting are separate processes that often require professional help unless you have a dedicated paint booth and experience. However, for more complex kits, or if you want that factory-perfect finish and fitment, professional installation is highly recommended. A professional body shop has the experience, tools, and expertise to ensure all the pieces align perfectly, gaps are minimized, and the final result looks seamless. They can also handle any necessary bodywork, like minor modifications or repairs to your car's existing panels, and ensure a flawless paint match and application. While professional installation will add to the overall cost, it often saves headaches and ensures a much higher quality result, especially for full bumper replacements or kits requiring significant modification. Think about your skill level, the complexity of the kit, and your desired end result. For a truly show-quality finish, the pros are usually the way to go.

Finding the Right Kit for Your Accord

When you're on the hunt for that perfect body kit for your 2017 Honda Accord Sport, remember that quality and fitment are paramount. You don't want a kit that looks good online but fits poorly on your car, leaving awkward gaps or requiring excessive modification. Start by researching reputable brands known for producing quality aftermarket parts. Look for kits specifically designed for the 2017 Honda Accord Sport model. While some kits might be listed as fitting multiple years or trims, always double-check compatibility. Websites of aftermarket parts retailers are a great place to start. Use their search filters to narrow down options by vehicle year and model. Read customer reviews! This is invaluable intel. See what other Accord owners are saying about the fitment, quality, and durability of the kits they've purchased. Look for reviews that include photos of the installed kits – seeing it on a similar car is the best way to judge the style. Don't be afraid to reach out to manufacturers or retailers with specific questions about materials, included hardware, and installation requirements. Some kits come unpainted and require professional prep and painting, while others might come pre-painted or even ready for direct installation. Factor in the cost of paint and professional installation if the kit doesn't include it. Finally, consider your budget. Body kits can range from a few hundred dollars for a simple lip kit to over a thousand for a full, premium set. Balance your desire for a specific look with the reality of your budget and the potential costs of installation and paint. Finding the right kit is a process, but with a little research, you can find something that perfectly complements your 2017 Accord Sport.

The Impact of a Body Kit

Adding a body kit to your 2017 Honda Accord Sport is more than just a cosmetic upgrade; it can genuinely transform the way your car looks and feels. You're not just bolting on parts; you're essentially giving your Accord a whole new personality. For many owners, the primary driver is aesthetics. The factory design, while sleek, can be seen as a bit reserved. A well-chosen body kit injects that sportiness and individuality that factory cars often lack. It can make your Accord appear lower, wider, and more aggressive, giving it that custom-built appeal that turns heads. Beyond looks, some kits are designed with aerodynamics in mind. While the gains on a street-driven car might be minimal, components like front splitters and rear diffusers can subtly improve airflow, potentially reducing drag and increasing stability at higher speeds. A well-designed spoiler can even contribute to downforce, though again, this is more about the look for most daily drivers. The tactile experience can also change. The feel of the car as you drive, knowing it's uniquely modified, adds a layer of satisfaction. It's your personal touch on a mass-produced vehicle. However, it's important to be realistic. A body kit won't magically turn your Accord into a supercar. Its main impact is visual and psychological – it makes you feel better about your car and makes the car look more exciting to others. It’s a way to express your passion for your vehicle and make it a true reflection of your style. So, when you install that kit, remember you're not just changing the car's exterior; you're enhancing your ownership experience and making your 2017 Accord Sport truly your own.

Maintenance and Care

So, you've got that awesome body kit installed on your 2017 Honda Accord Sport, and you want it to stay looking fresh, right? Like any custom part, body kits require a bit of extra TLC. Maintenance and care are key to keeping your kit looking its best and protecting your investment. First off, washing your car regularly is non-negotiable. Use a mild car wash soap and a soft microfiber mitt. Avoid abrasive brushes or harsh detergents, especially on painted surfaces, as they can scratch or damage the finish. When drying, again, use clean microfiber towels. For polyurethane kits, they're pretty resilient, but still, avoid hitting curbs or large debris. If you notice any minor scuffs, they can often be buffed out with a good quality automotive polish. For fiberglass kits, be extra gentle. While they look sharp, they are more susceptible to chips and cracks. If you do get a chip or a scratch, it’s best to get it repaired sooner rather than later to prevent rust or further damage. Small spider cracks can sometimes be filled and polished, but larger damage might require professional repair. Pay attention to seams and edges where dirt and grime can accumulate. A detail brush can help get into those tight spots during washing. When it comes to waxing or applying sealants, use products designed for automotive paint. These will protect the finish and add a nice shine. Avoid silicon-based products if you plan on doing any touch-up paintwork later, as they can interfere with paint adhesion. Finally, be mindful of where you park. Try to avoid tight spots in parking lots where your kit might be susceptible to dings or scrapes. A little bit of consistent care will go a long way in keeping your 2017 Accord Sport's body kit looking sharp for years to come.