So I was drunk shopping a few weeks ago, and bought a typically $150 INGS LX style front lip (or as I call it - a valance) for about $72 with free shipping... Can't beat it, right? I have always thought that the 350Z needed a little something in the front, and something in the rear if the car has no factory spoiler... I added an OEM spoiler last year, so this year, I wanted to add something in the front.

So it appears that you CAN make these cheap valances look and fit well. It was a $72 gamble I was willing to risk, but as I am a career auto body painter, so it was less a risk than it would be for most... If you have the time, skill and resources, it can be done. I would estimate that it took me 7 hours labor including painting and fitting, and $175 in sandpaper, 3M tape, and paint materials... If you are not an auto body professional, figure it will cost whatever your local body shop labor rate is x 7 ($75/hr at my shop) plus the 175 is what it might cost you. Less maybe, if your standards are lower than mine, and the shop uses a cheaper paint system.

Also note that I had to modify some of the brackets. I don't think much thought went into the hardware that came with it...

 

Looks good. If you could do it over again, would you buy another replica? Or would you cough up the extra money in advance for a more reputable brand or authentic?

 

I am richer in skill than I am in liquid assets...!