🔧 StyleMyCar Installation Guide
A practical self-service guide covering the most common installation methods used across StyleMyCar products. Whether you’re installing a spoiler, front lip, diffuser, side skirts or interior accessories, these best practices will help you achieve a clean, secure and professional-looking installation.
📚 Covers 6 Most Common Installation Methods
Whether you’re installing a spoiler, front lip, side skirts, diffuser, mirror covers or other aftermarket styling accessories, this guide explains the most common installation methods used across a wide range of makes and models.
📑 Installation Methods
Interior trims, mirror covers, roof spoilers, ducktail spoilers, window louvres and many other styling upgrades. Proper surface preparation and correct application are essential for maximum adhesive strength.
Factory mounting point installation is one of the most secure methods for styling upgrades. These products are designed to utilise existing factory mounting locations, helping achieve a clean, reliable and professional fitment.
Self-tapping screws provide additional strength and long-term stability for styling parts where factory mounting points are not available. Correct alignment and secure fastening are essential for the best results.
Replace factory components with styling upgrades designed to integrate seamlessly with your vehicle. Careful removal and correct installation help maintain proper fitment, appearance and functionality.
Some styling upgrades require drilling to achieve the correct fitment. Always measure carefully, confirm alignment and prepare thoroughly before making any permanent modifications.
Prefer to leave it to the experts? Professional installation is available for many StyleMyCar products at our Sydney workshop. Contact us to discuss installation options before placing your order.
🟢 Double-Sided Tape Installation
Achieve a Secure, Professional Finish
Double-sided automotive tape is commonly used for interior trims, mirror covers, fuel lid covers, roof spoilers, window louvres and selected low-profile spoilers. Following the correct preparation and installation process will help ensure maximum adhesive strength, long-term durability and a professional-looking result.
⭐ Difficulty: ★★☆☆☆
⏱ Estimated Time: 15–30 minutes
🚗 Typical Products
• Mirror Covers
• Fuel Lid Covers
• Roof Spoilers
• Interior Trims
• Window Louvres
🧰 Recommended Tools
✔ Clean microfibre cloth
✔ Isopropyl alcohol (IPA)
✔ Mild car wash solution
✔ Masking tape
✔ Hair dryer or low-temperature heat gun (optional)
✔ Measuring tape or ruler
🧽 Surface Preparation
Proper preparation is the most important step for a successful installation.
✔ Wash the installation area thoroughly.
✔ Remove all dust, dirt, wax, polish and grease.
✔ Wipe the surface with isopropyl alcohol.
✔ Allow the surface to dry completely before installation.
✔ Ensure both the vehicle and accessory are clean and dust free.
❌ Never install onto a wet, dirty or contaminated surface.
📏 Test Fit & Alignment
Never remove the tape backing before confirming the final position.
✔ Test fit the accessory first.
✔ Check left and right alignment carefully.
✔ Confirm the part follows the vehicle contours correctly.
✔ Ensure the accessory makes full contact with the mounting surface.
✔ Use masking tape to mark the final position before installation.
💡 Double-sided tape is designed to secure a correctly fitting part—not pull a poorly fitting accessory into place.
🌤 Installation Conditions
Correct conditions significantly improve adhesive performance.
✅ Recommended
✔ Install in dry weather.
✔ Daylight or a well-lit workshop.
✔ Ambient temperature between 18°C and 30°C.
✔ Clean, dry and dust-free environment.
❌ Avoid
✘ Rain or damp conditions.
✘ Cold vehicle panels.
✘ Direct midday heat.
✘ Dusty or windy areas.
✘ Night-time installation where alignment is difficult.
🏷 Applying the Tape
✔ Peel back a small section of the tape backing first.
✔ Position the accessory accurately using your masking tape guides.
✔ Gradually remove the remaining backing while maintaining alignment.
✔ Avoid touching the exposed adhesive.
❌ Once the tape makes contact, avoid removing and repositioning the accessory.
🤲 Securing the Part
Firm, even pressure activates the adhesive.
✔ Press firmly along the entire mounting surface.
✔ Work from the centre outward.
✔ Apply consistent pressure for approximately 30–60 seconds.
✔ Pay extra attention to corners and edges.
✔ Confirm the part sits evenly with no visible gaps.
⏳ Adhesive Curing Time
Allow the adhesive sufficient time to achieve maximum strength.
✔ Keep the vehicle dry for at least 24 hours.
✔ Avoid washing the vehicle for 48–72 hours where possible.
✔ Avoid pressure washing or high-speed driving immediately after installation.
✔ Allow additional curing time during colder weather.
🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Installing over wax, polish or grease.
❌ Installing on a wet or dusty surface.
❌ Rushing the alignment.
❌ Touching the adhesive with your fingers.
❌ Using tape to force a poorly fitting part into position.
❌ Washing the vehicle immediately after installation.
❌ Ignoring sections where the accessory doesn’t make full contact with the vehicle.
💡 Professional Tips
✔ Complete the installation during daylight.
✔ Take your time—accurate preparation produces the best results.
✔ Use a second person when installing larger accessories such as roof spoilers.
✔ Ensure the accessory has broad, even contact with the vehicle surface before applying pressure.
✔ Where a product is supplied with additional screws, clips or brackets, always use the supplied hardware unless otherwise specified.
✔ If you’re unsure about the installation, contact StyleMyCar before proceeding.
🔧 Professional Installation Available
If you’d prefer a professional fitment, installation is available at our Sydney workshop for many StyleMyCar products. Contact us before ordering to discuss installation options for your vehicle.
🔵 Factory Mounting Point Installation
Secure Installation Using Existing Factory Mounting Points
Many styling upgrades are designed to utilise your vehicle’s existing factory mounting points, eliminating the need for drilling or self-tapping screws. This installation method provides a clean, secure and professional fitment while retaining the vehicle’s original mounting hardware.
Factory mounting point installations are generally among the easiest and most reliable installation methods because they utilise the vehicle’s original engineered mounting locations.
⭐ Difficulty: ★★☆☆☆
⏱ Estimated Time: 15–30 minutes
🚗 Typical Products
• Front Bumper Lips/splitters (factory mount type)
• Rear Bumper Diffusers
• Undertrays
• Selected OEM Replacement Styling Parts
🧰 Recommended Tools
✔ Socket set or spanners
✔ Screwdrivers (Phillips or Flat Blade where applicable)
✔ Trim removal tool (if required)
✔ Torque wrench (recommended)
✔ Microfibre cloth
✔ Vehicle ramps or jack stands (if additional access is required)
🔍 Test Fit & Mounting Point Check
Before removing any factory hardware, confirm the product is designed for your specific vehicle.
✔ Position the new part against the vehicle.
✔ Check that all factory mounting holes align correctly.
✔ Confirm the mounting points are free from damage.
✔ Ensure the product sits naturally without forcing or bending.
✔ Verify that bumpers, undertrays and surrounding panels remain correctly aligned.
💡 A correctly manufactured part should align with the factory mounting points without modification.
🔧 Removing Factory Hardware
Remove only the fasteners required for installation.
✔ Keep all factory screws, bolts and clips organised.
✔ Remove hardware carefully to avoid damaging threads.
✔ Inspect each fastener before reusing it.
✔ Replace any damaged or missing hardware before final installation.
❌ Never discard factory hardware until the installation is complete.
📍 Installing the Product
Once the mounting points have been confirmed, begin installation.
✔ Position the product over the factory mounting locations.
✔ Align every mounting hole before inserting any screws or bolts.
✔ Install all fasteners loosely first.
✔ Check the overall alignment before tightening.
✔ Ensure the product sits evenly against the vehicle.
💡 Installing every fastener loosely first allows small alignment adjustments before final tightening.
🔩 Tightening the Hardware
Correct tightening ensures a secure and long-lasting installation.
✔ Tighten hardware evenly from the centre outward where possible.
✔ Secure every factory mounting point provided.
✔ Ensure the product is firmly mounted without movement.
✔ Do not overtighten plastic components.
✔ Recheck every fastener once installation is complete.
❌ Overtightening may damage plastic components or strip factory threads.
✅ Final Inspection
Before driving the vehicle, complete a final inspection.
✔ Confirm all fasteners are tightened correctly.
✔ Check that all panel gaps remain even.
✔ Ensure there is no movement or rattling.
✔ Verify adequate clearance from tyres, suspension and exhaust components where applicable.
✔ Confirm the product does not interfere with any moving parts.
🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Tightening one side completely before installing the remaining fasteners.
❌ Forcing mounting holes to line up.
❌ Cross-threading factory bolts.
❌ Forgetting to reinstall every factory fastener.
❌ Overtightening plastic mounting points.
❌ Driving before confirming all hardware is fully secured.
💡 Professional Tips
✔ Test fit the product before removing factory hardware.
✔ Install every screw or bolt loosely before final tightening.
✔ Keep removed hardware organised throughout the installation.
✔ Work methodically from one side to the other.
✔ Recheck all fasteners after a short drive.
✔ If the product does not align naturally with the factory mounting points, stop and investigate before continuing.
🔧 Professional Installation Available
Professional installation is available at our Sydney workshop for many products using factory mounting points. If you’re unsure about the installation or would like assistance achieving a factory-quality fitment, contact StyleMyCar before placing your order.
🟠 Self-Tapping Screw Installation
Secure Installation for Universal & Non-Factory Mounted Parts
Some styling accessories are designed to be secured using self-tapping screws instead of factory mounting points. This method is commonly used for universal front lips, side skirts, splitters, diffusers and other aerodynamic components. Careful alignment, even screw placement and proper fastening are essential to achieve a secure, professional installation.
⭐ Difficulty: ★★★☆☆
⏱ Estimated Time: 30–60 minutes
🚗 Typical Products
• Universal Front Lips
• Side Skirts
• Universal Rear Diffusers
• Splitters
• Canards
• Universal Aero Components
🧰 Recommended Tools
✔ Self-tapping screws
✔ Drill or cordless driver
✔ Suitable drill bits (if required)
✔ Screwdriver
✔ Measuring tape or ruler
✔ Masking tape or removable marker
✔ Microfibre cloth
✔ Vehicle jack or ramps (if required)
✔ Jack stands for additional safety
✔ Safety gloves ✔Safety glasses ✔Safety boots (highly recommended)
📏 Test Fit & Alignment
Correct alignment is the foundation of a professional installation.
✔ Position the product before drilling or fastening.
✔ Confirm the accessory is centred and symmetrical.
✔ Check clearances around wheels, bumpers and surrounding panels.
✔ Use masking tape or removable markers to identify the final position.
✔ Ask another person to help hold the part where required.
💡 Measure twice and install once. Small alignment errors are much more noticeable after installation.
🧽 Prepare the Mounting Surface
Before installing the part, ensure the mounting surface is clean and ready.
✔ Remove dirt, dust and road grime.
✔ Dry the surface completely.
✔ Confirm the mounting surface is structurally sound.
✔ Ensure the product sits flush against the mounting surface.
✔ Do not install onto damaged or flexible mounting areas.
🔩 Installing the Self-Tapping Screws
Once the product has been correctly positioned, begin securing it.
✔ Start with one screw at each end to hold the part in place.
✔ Check the alignment again before installing additional screws.
✔ Position screws through the centre of the mounting surface where possible.
✔ Maintain consistent spacing between all screws.
✔ Add additional screws where necessary to improve strength and stability.
✔ If the supplied screws are insufficient, use additional automotive-grade self-tapping screws of the correct size.
💡 More evenly spaced fixing points generally provide a stronger and more secure installation than relying on only a few screws.
⚙️ Tightening & Final Fitment
A properly secured accessory should remain firm without movement.
✔ Tighten each screw evenly.
✔ Do not overtighten plastic components.
✔ Confirm the part sits evenly along its full length.
✔ Ensure there are no loose edges or visible gaps.
✔ Check that every fixing point is secure before driving.
🚗 Raising the Vehicle Safely
Some installations may require additional access underneath the vehicle.
✔ Park on a flat, stable surface.
✔ Apply the parking brake.
✔ Use the correct lifting points recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.
✔ Support the vehicle with approved jack stands before working underneath.
✔ Never rely solely on a hydraulic jack while working beneath the vehicle.
⚠️ Always follow safe lifting procedures and use suitable lifting equipment.
🦺 Safety Precautions
Your safety should always come first.
✔ Wear safety glasses when drilling or driving screws.
✔ Wear gloves to protect your hands.
✔ Wear suitable enclosed footwear or safety boots.
✔ Keep hands clear of moving tools.
✔ Ensure the work area is well lit.
✔ Keep children and bystanders away from the work area.
🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Installing without first test fitting the product.
❌ Uneven screw spacing.
❌ Screws positioned too close to panel edges.
❌ Using too few fixing points.
❌ Overtightening screws.
❌ Working underneath a vehicle supported only by a jack.
❌ Ignoring movement or flex after installation.
💡 Professional Tips
✔ Take time to achieve perfect alignment before drilling.
✔ Use a second person to support larger accessories during installation.
✔ Keep screw spacing consistent for both strength and appearance.
✔ Add additional fixing points where required for long components such as side skirts.
✔ Periodically inspect all screws after installation, particularly during the first few weeks of use.
✔ If the product requires significant modification or excessive force to fit, stop and confirm compatibility before proceeding.
⚠️ Important Safety Notice
The information provided in this guide is intended as general installation guidance only. Installation methods may vary depending on the vehicle and product. It is the installer’s responsibility to use appropriate tools, follow safe working practices and ensure the accessory is installed securely. If you are unsure about any aspect of the installation, we strongly recommend seeking professional assistance.
🔧 Professional Installation Available
Professional installation is available at our Sydney workshop for many products requiring self-tapping screw installation. If you would prefer an experienced installer to complete the fitment, contact StyleMyCar before placing your order.
🔴 Factory Part Replacement Installation
Replacing Original Components with Aftermarket Styling Parts
Some aftermarket styling accessories are designed to completely replace the factory-installed component rather than being installed over or alongside it. Common examples include rear bumper diffusers, front lips, side skirts, grilles and other trim pieces. Since every vehicle and replacement part is different, installation methods can vary significantly and may require partial disassembly of the vehicle.
⭐ Difficulty: ★★★★☆
⏱ Estimated Time: 1–3 Hours
🚗 Typical Products
• Rear Bumper Diffusers
• Front Lips (Factory Replacement)
• Side Skirts (Factory Replacement)
• Front Grilles
• Other OEM Replacement Styling Parts
🧰 Recommended Tools
✔ Trim removal tools
✔ Socket and spanner set
✔ Screwdrivers
✔ Trim clip removal tools
✔ Vehicle jack or ramps (if required)
✔ Jack stands
✔ Safety gloves ✔Safety glasses ✔Safety boots (highly recommended)
🔍 Before You Begin
Factory replacement accessories often require the original component to be removed before the new part can be installed.
Depending on the vehicle, this may involve:
✔ Removing undertrays or splash guards.
✔ Removing sections of the bumper.
✔ Removing the complete front or rear bumper assembly.
✔ Disconnecting parking sensors, lighting or other electrical components where applicable.
Always identify the correct installation procedure for your specific vehicle before starting.
🔧 Removing the Factory Component
Take your time when removing the original part.
Many factory components are secured using a combination of:
✔ Plastic clips
✔ Retaining tabs
✔ Locking hooks
✔ Screws
✔ Bolts
These retaining clips can become brittle with age, heat and road exposure, making them easier to break during removal.
Avoid forcing any component. If something doesn’t release easily, carefully inspect for hidden fasteners before applying additional force.
💻 Research Your Vehicle
Because factory replacement procedures vary widely between vehicles, we strongly recommend watching a vehicle-specific installation video before starting.
Searching YouTube using your vehicle’s make, model, year and the component being replaced can provide valuable guidance and help you understand the correct removal sequence before disassembly.
🦺 Safety Precautions
✔ Work on a clean, level surface.
✔ Raise the vehicle safely where required.
✔ Always support the vehicle using approved jack stands.
✔ Wear suitable safety glasses and gloves.
✔ Keep all removed clips, screws and bolts organised for reassembly.
✔ Use the correct tools to minimise the risk of damaging plastic trim and painted surfaces.
🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Forcing panels without locating all fasteners.
❌ Breaking retaining tabs by using excessive force.
❌ Mixing up screws and clips during disassembly.
❌ Working underneath a vehicle supported only by a jack.
❌ Attempting installation without confirming compatibility.
💡 Professional Tips
✔ Take photos during disassembly to help with reassembly.
✔ Store all fasteners in labelled containers.
✔ Replace damaged clips or fasteners before reinstalling the new part.
✔ Test-fit the replacement component before fully tightening all hardware.
✔ If the installation requires extensive bumper removal or electrical disconnection, consider seeking professional assistance.
⚠️ Important Safety Notice
This guide provides general installation information only. Factory replacement procedures vary considerably between vehicle makes, models and aftermarket accessories. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions where supplied, use appropriate tools and safety equipment, and seek professional assistance if you are unsure about any stage of the installation.
🔧 Professional Installation Available
Many factory replacement accessories can be professionally installed at our Sydney workshop. If you would prefer an experienced installer to complete the fitment, contact StyleMyCar before placing your order.
⚫ Drilling Required Installation
Precision Installation for Permanent Vehicle Modifications
Some aftermarket styling accessories require holes to be drilled into the vehicle for a secure installation. This method is commonly used for performance spoilers, pedestal wings and certain universal styling accessories where no factory mounting points exist.
Unlike other installation methods, drilling is permanent. Once a hole has been drilled, correcting a mistake can be difficult and costly. Careful planning, accurate measurements and patience are essential for a professional result.
⭐ Difficulty: ★★★★★
⏱ Estimated Time: 1–2 Hours
🚗 Typical Products
• GT500 Track Spoilers
• Pedestal Style Spoilers
• Universal GT Wings
• Swan Neck Wings
• Some Ducktail Spoilers
• Universal Roof Spoilers
• Universal Aero Accessories
🧰 Recommended Tools
✔ Electric drill
✔ High-quality drill bits (multiple sizes)
✔ Step drill or deburring bit
✔ Centre punch
✔ Hammer
✔ Masking tape
✔ Measuring tape
✔ Steel ruler
✔ Marker pen
✔ Allen (L) Keys
✔ Socket set
✔ Spanners
✔ Rust protection paint or primer
✔ Microfibre cloth
✔ Vacuum cleaner or magnet
✔ Safety gloves ✔Safety glasses ✔Safety boots (highly recommended)
🧩 Assemble the Product First
Before taking any measurements, fully assemble the accessory exactly as it will be installed on the vehicle.
Many spoilers are supplied with separate mounting feet, brackets and hardware.
If these components are assembled incorrectly, every measurement taken afterwards may be inaccurate.
Never drill holes until the accessory has been completely assembled and checked.
📏 Planning & Measuring
This is the most important stage of the installation.
Do not rush.
Many aftermarket spoilers do not include drilling templates.
Instead, you may need to create your own template using the spoiler itself and the mounting points as reference.
StyleMyCar strongly recommends:
Measure three times. Drill once.
Take your time.One extra hour measuring can save replacing an entire boot lid.
📍 Identifying Reference Points
Many spoilers have recessed mounting holes or locating points underneath the mounting feet.
These make excellent reference points.
A proven method is:
✔ Apply masking tape to the vehicle where drilling will occur.
✔ Insert bolts into the spoiler mounting nuts.
✔ Position the spoiler exactly where it will sit.
✔ Use the bolt ends or a centre punch to gently transfer the reference points onto the masking tape.
✔ Repeat the process several times to confirm every mark is identical.
Only continue once every reference point is perfectly consistent.
📐 Creating Your Template
Once the initial reference points have been confirmed, use them to create the remaining drilling positions.
Where no factory references exist (common with universal accessories):
✔ Measure left and right.
✔ Measure front and rear.
✔ Confirm the accessory is perfectly centred.
✔ Check body lines and panel gaps.
✔ Step back several metres and visually inspect the positioning.
Never rely on visual judgement alone.
Always confirm using measurements.
🔩 Drilling the Holes
Once you are absolutely certain every hole has been correctly marked:
✔ Confirm all measurements again.
✔ Start with a small pilot drill bit.
✔ Gradually enlarge each hole.
✔ Frequently test-fit the accessory.
✔ Use a deburring or shaping bit if minor adjustments are required.
✔ Never drill the final hole size immediately.
Taking small steps provides much greater control and accuracy.
🧽 Protecting the Vehicle
After drilling:
✔ Remove all masking tape.
✔ Carefully remove every metal shaving.
✔ Vacuum inside the boot where necessary.
✔ Clean the surrounding paintwork.
✔ Apply rust protection or touch-up paint around every exposed metal edge from both sides of the panel.
This step is essential to help prevent corrosion over time.
🏁 Final Installation
Before removing any double-sided tape backing:
✔ Test-fit the accessory one final time.
✔ Use an Allen (L) key through the holes if required to help align the mounting hardware.
✔ Confirm every bolt passes through smoothly.
Once satisfied:
✔ Remove the tape backing.
✔ Position the accessory carefully.
✔ Ask another person to help hold the accessory during installation.
✔ Install every bolt finger-tight first.
✔ Once all bolts have been installed, tighten them evenly one at a time.
Do not fully tighten one bolt before the others have been installed.
💡 Professional Tips
✔ Apply automotive double-sided tape where designed by the manufacturer.
✔ The tape provides additional support while helping prevent vibration, squeaks and paint damage.
✔ Keep checking alignment throughout the installation.
✔ If something doesn’t look right, stop and investigate before drilling another hole.
✔ If drilling into metal, protect all exposed edges against corrosion.
✔ Never rush a drilling installation.
🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoidtion
❌ Drilling before fully assembling the product.
❌ Skipping the test fit.
❌ Relying on estimates instead of measurements.
❌ Drilling full-size holes immediately.
❌ Forgetting rust protection.
❌ Tightening one side completely before installing all hardware.
❌ Installing without assistance on large spoilers.
❌ Leaving metal shavings inside the boot or body panels.
⚠️ Important Disclaimer
This guide is provided as general installation guidance only and may not apply to every vehicle or aftermarket accessory. Drilling requirements, mounting methods and hardware vary significantly between manufacturers, vehicle makes and models.
Drilling is a permanent modification. Incorrect measurements or drilling may result in damage to the vehicle, improper fitment or costly repairs.
If you are unsure about any part of the installation, StyleMyCar strongly recommends seeking professional installation or advice before proceeding.
StyleMyCar accepts no responsibility for damage, incorrect installation, misaligned drilling, or any loss arising from the use of this guide. By proceeding with installation, you acknowledge that you are responsible for verifying all measurements, ensuring the correct installation method, using appropriate tools and following safe working practices.
🔧 Professional Installation Available
Many drilling installations can be completed by our experienced team at our Sydney workshop. If you are unsure about any stage of the installation or would prefer professional fitment, contact StyleMyCar before placing your order.
🔧 Professional Installation
Let the Experts Handle It
Not every installation needs to be a DIY project. If you would prefer the confidence of a professional fitment, StyleMyCar offers installation services for many of our products at our Sydney workshop.
Whether your accessory requires double-sided tape, factory mounting points, self-tapping screws or precision drilling, our experienced team can help ensure it is fitted correctly and securely.
✔ Professional Installation Available For
• Spoilers
• Front Lips
• Side Skirts
• Rear Diffusers
• Mirror Covers
• Window Louvres
• Selected Interior Accessories
• Many Other Styling Products
💬 Before You Order
If you’re unsure which installation method your chosen product requires, or would like a quote for professional installation, simply get in touch with our team before placing your order. We’ll be happy to discuss your vehicle, the product and the best installation option for you.
📍 Sydney Workshop
Professional installation available by appointment.
📞 Have a question?
Contact StyleMyCar before ordering—we’re always happy to help.
