When Honda introduced the 8th generation Accord in 2008, it signaled a shift toward a larger, more refined mid-size sedan. Available from 2008 to 2012 (with some overlap in coupes until 2013), this generation offered a perfect blend of reliability, comfort, and performance. However, for car enthusiasts and tuners, its subtle styling left room for personalization—and that’s where body kits come in.
Whether you’re going for a VIP luxury look, aggressive street racer vibes, or a clean OEM+ style, body kits offer a great way to transform your Accord into something that truly reflects your personality. In this post, we’ll take a deep dive into accord 8th gen body kit, materials, design philosophies, and real-world tips for installation and maintenance.
Understanding the 8th Gen Accord: A Quick Overview
Before diving into body kit choices, let’s take a quick look at what makes the 8th gen Accord such a popular platform for customization:
- Production Years: 2008–2012 for the sedan, 2008–2013 for the coupe.
- Trims: LX, EX, EX-L, with V6 options available.
- Notable Features: Larger body, wider stance than previous gens, with sharp headlights and a bold grille.
- Aftermarket Support: High, especially in North America and Southeast Asia.
This generation is often considered a “blank canvas” because it has a commanding road presence but lacks the flair many enthusiasts seek.
Why Upgrade with a Body Kit?
A body kit is more than just aesthetics—it’s a style statement, a performance enhancer, and often, a passion project.
Here are a few reasons owners opt for a body kit:
- Personalization: Stand out from stock vehicles.
- Performance Enhancements: Aerodynamics, reduced drag, or improved downforce.
- Resale Value: When tastefully done, can increase interest among buyers.
- Repair & Restoration: Great for replacing damaged OEM panels with more stylish alternatives.
- Whether you’re daily driving, showing off at meets, or hitting the track, the right kit will elevate your Accord in every aspect.
Types of Body Kits Available for the 8th Gen Accord
1. OEM-Style Kits
These kits mimic factory trims from different markets (like the Japanese or European models) or optional sport packages.
Best For: Clean, factory-look builds
Popular Options:
- Modulo (JDM Style): Offers lip kits that subtly enhance the factory bumpers.
- Mugen Style: Slightly more aggressive than Modulo, but still very OEM-friendly.
2. Full-Aero Body Kits
These are aggressive, track-inspired kits that drastically change the appearance of the vehicle.
Best For: Show cars, widebody builds, aggressive street setups
Popular Brands/Styles:
- Duraflex: Affordable fiberglass kits with aggressive lines.
- JP Vizage & ChargeSpeed replicas: Based on high-end Japanese kits, available as knockoffs online.
- Custom fiberglass builds: Common in local tuning scenes.
3. VIP-Style Body Kits
Inspired by luxury sedans in Japan, these kits emphasize width, presence, and elegance.
Best For: Air suspension setups, large wheels, deep lips
Common Features:
- Deep bumpers, extended side skirts
- Integrated diffusers
- Chrome trim accents
4. Coupe-Specific Kits
The Accord Coupe has slightly different dimensions, so be careful when ordering.
Popular Choices:
- HFP (Honda Factory Performance) Lip Kit
- Custom widebody fender flares
- Carbon fiber splitters for a more premium look
Material Breakdown: What’s Your Kit Made Of?
Knowing the material used in your body kit is essential for longevity, fitment, and maintenance.
1. Fiberglass
- Pros: Cheap, lightweight, easy to modify
- Cons: Prone to cracking if not handled carefully
- Best For: Custom builds, show cars
2. Polyurethane (PU)
- Pros: Flexible, impact-resistant
- Cons: Can warp in high heat if poorly manufactured
- Best For: Daily drivers
3. ABS Plastic
- Pros: OEM-quality, durable, great fit
- Cons: More expensive, limited styles
- Best For: OEM+ and clean builds
4. Carbon Fiber
- Pros: Lightweight, premium look
- Cons: High cost, can fade if not UV-protected
- Best For: Performance builds or premium appearances
Popular Body Kit Setups: Real-World Combos
Here are some popular combinations owners go for:
“OEM+” Look
- Front Modulo lip
- Side skirt extensions
- Rear Mugen diffuser
- 18″ OEM Honda wheels or mild aftermarket setups
Aggressive Street Style
- Duraflex full kit
- Carbon fiber hood
- Wide wheels + coilovers
- LED underglow (optional but trending again)
VIP Air Suspension Build
- Custom front bumper with chrome accents
- Side skirts with underglow LED strips
- Deep dish 20″ wheels
- Bags + camber kits
Track-Inspired Coupe Build
- Carbon fiber lip & spoiler
- Rear diffuser + functional venting
- Big brake kit
- Lightweight wheels
Fitment Tips & Installation Advice
No matter how good a body kit looks online, installation is where things can go wrong—or really shine. Here’s how to nail the process:
1. Test Fit Everything
Don’t skip this step. Always test fit all parts before painting. Use painter’s tape and clamps to mock it up.
2. Body Work May Be Required
Even the best kits may need trimming, sanding, or minor reshaping—especially fiberglass kits.
3. Use High-Quality Fasteners & Adhesives
- 3M double-sided tape for lightweight lips
- Self-tapping screws for hidden mounting
- Rivnuts for secure, removable installs
4. Paint Before Install (Usually)
It’s easier to paint and clear coat most parts off the car. But, if the fitment needs blending or smoothing, prep it while on the car.
Maintenance and Care Tips
Your body kit is an investment—here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Wash regularly to avoid road grime buildup, especially around the edges.
- Reapply ceramic coating or wax on painted surfaces every few months.
- Check mounting points for any loosening due to vibration or weather changes.
- Avoid aggressive car washes with brushes—they can snag edges.
Where to Buy: Top Retailers and Resources
Online Stores
- Duraflex/Extreme Dimensions
- eBay & Amazon (for budget options, but double-check reviews)
- AeroFunction, Ikon Motorsports – for specific lips and side skirts
- Forums & Communities
- DriveAccord.net
- AccordNation
- Facebook Groups like “8th Gen Accord Owners”
These communities are goldmines for advice, second-hand parts, and fitment feedback.
Final Thoughts: Making Your Accord Truly Yours
The 8th gen Honda Accord is more than just a dependable daily—it’s a tuner’s canvas waiting to be personalized. Whether you want a mild drop and clean lip or a head-turning widebody setup, there’s a body kit out there that fits your goals.
Just remember: quality over hype. Take your time to research materials, plan your install, and commit to a theme. The right body kit can take your Accord from “stock daily” to “showstopper” in a weekend—with the right tools and a bit of passion.
