4 Hacks To Upgrade Your 1999 Boxster Hatch Style

In the realm of classic sports cars, the 1999 Porsche Boxster holds a special place in many enthusiasts' hearts. With its iconic design, responsive handling, and that unmistakable flat-six engine soundtrack, it's a car that still captures the imagination years after its debut. However, if you're looking to give your Boxster a modern twist while preserving its classic charm, upgrading the hatch style might be the perfect project for you. Here are four hacks to help you upgrade your 1999 Boxster's hatch, enhancing both form and function.

Hack 1: LED Tail Lights Retrofit

Why Upgrade?

• Visibility: LED lights offer superior illumination and visibility, making your car safer and more visible to other road users.
• Aesthetics: LED tail lights can give your Boxster a more modern, aggressive look, aligning with contemporary sports car styling.

The Process:

1. Preparation: Start by removing the existing tail lights. You'll need some basic tools like a screwdriver, perhaps pliers, and possibly a trim removal tool.

2. LED Selection: Choose LED tail lights designed specifically for the 986 Boxster. Ensure they are compatible with the car's electrical system.

3. Installation: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation. This typically involves:

   • Disconnecting the original wiring.
   • Connecting the LED tail lights. Be mindful of polarity to avoid damaging the LEDs or the car's electrical system.
   • Securing the lights back into place.

<p class="pro-note">💡 Pro Tip: Before you begin, ensure the LEDs are compatible with your car's light control module (LCM). Some might require bypass modules or resistors for proper function.</p>

Hack 2: Aero Add-Ons

Why Upgrade?

• Performance: Adding aerodynamic elements can improve downforce, reducing lift at high speeds.
• Style: A rear spoiler or diffuser can give your Boxster that racing car edge, appealing to both enthusiasts and onlookers.

Components to Consider:

• Rear Spoiler: Opt for a fixed or adjustable wing. For a 986, the OEM ducktail or a GT-style wing are popular choices.

• Diffuser: Adding a rear diffuser can enhance the car's aerodynamics and give it a more aggressive look.

Installation Tips:

• Alignment: Ensure that all components are aligned with the car's existing body lines for a seamless look.
• Mounting: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for mounting, ensuring all bolts are tightened correctly.

<p class="pro-note">⚠️ Pro Tip: Use existing mounting points where possible to avoid drilling into the car's body. This preserves the car's integrity and keeps modifications reversible.</p>

Hack 3: Custom Hatch Graphics or Wrap

Why Upgrade?

• Personalization: Graphics or wraps allow you to customize the look of your car, reflecting your personality or branding it for racing or events.
• Protection: A wrap not only changes the aesthetics but also protects the paint from minor scratches and UV damage.

Execution Steps:

1. Design Phase: Work with a graphic designer to create the look you want. Keep in mind the visibility of the license plate, lights, and any other required legal markings.

2. Application: Hire a professional or take up the challenge of applying the vinyl wrap yourself:

   • Clean the surface thoroughly.
   • Apply the wrap in a controlled environment to avoid dust and debris.
   • Use a squeegee to remove air bubbles.

<p class="pro-note">🧹 Pro Tip: After wrapping, give it a couple of days before driving to let the adhesive bond well. Use a hair dryer or heat gun for stubborn wrinkles or bubbles.</p>

Hack 4: Custom Interior Hatch Finish

Why Upgrade?

• Luxury: A custom finish inside the hatch can mimic the high-end interiors of modern cars.
• Functionality: Incorporating additional storage solutions or lighting can improve the utility of the space.

Steps to Customize:

1. Material Choice: Decide whether you want a luxurious leather finish, a practical and durable carpet, or a sleek carbon fiber panel.

2. Installation:

   • Remove the existing trim if it's plastic or another material you wish to replace.
   • Cut and fit your chosen material to the hatch area, ensuring proper fitment.
   • Use adhesives that won't damage the car's paint or the material itself.

<p class="pro-note">📏 Pro Tip: Always measure twice, cut once. You want to ensure a perfect fit without damaging your new interior materials.</p>

As we've explored, there are various ways to upgrade the hatch style of your 1999 Boxster, blending classic style with modern aesthetics and functionality. From improving the car's visibility with LED tail lights to personalizing it with graphics or wraps, each hack not only enhances the car's appeal but also respects its heritage.

Remember, while modifications are tempting, preserving the integrity of a classic like the Boxster should be paramount. Always approach upgrades with the mindset of enhancing, not overshadowing, the vehicle's core character. With these hacks, your Boxster can look and feel new while still paying homage to its classic roots.

For those looking to delve deeper into Boxster modifications, or perhaps explore other aspects of sports car maintenance, continue exploring our tutorials and guides. There's a world of upgrades and customization waiting just around the corner.

<p class="pro-note">🔧 Pro Tip: If you're not confident in doing these mods yourself, seek help from professionals. They can often ensure the job is done right, preserving your car's value and your safety on the road.</p>

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can I install LED tail lights on my Boxster without affecting the electronics?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, but you must ensure the LEDs are compatible with your car's LCM. Some LEDs might require resistors or a bypass module for proper functionality.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Will adding a rear spoiler improve my Boxster's performance?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>A rear spoiler can enhance aerodynamics by reducing lift at high speeds, but the degree of improvement depends on the design and size of the spoiler.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Is a vinyl wrap reversible, and will it damage my car's paint?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>A vinyl wrap is generally reversible. If applied and removed correctly, it won't damage the paint. However, improper removal or installation can potentially harm the clear coat.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>