It’s been over a decade since American Products Company, better known as APC, closed its doors in February 2007. Many in the automotive world remember when Apc Car Parts were everywhere, especially in the aftermarket scene. They eventually sold their remaining stock to Pilot Automotive, marking the end of an era. The downfall of APC was likely due to a combination of factors, including hefty fines for manufacturing aftermarket lights that didn’t meet federal safety standards, and increased competition from companies like TYC/Depo. However, APC left an undeniable, albeit controversial, mark on the automotive industry.
American Products Company, despite its name, became synonymous with aftermarket car accessories that, ironically, were often manufactured overseas. They had a massive impact on the automotive aftermarket, shaping trends and perceptions of car customization. This is a look back at APC car parts and the legacy they left behind.
“The Chronicles…” takes an in-depth look at the phenomenon that was APC and the world of APC car parts.
The Altezza Taillight Craze and APC Lighting
The “Altezza” taillight era is perhaps the most defining chapter in the APC car parts story. For many, the first encounter with these distinctive lights was online, on sites like Importfan.com, which showcased various headlight and taillight conversions. The term “Altezza-style” lights was coined, referencing the Toyota Altezza (Lexus IS in some markets). However, the interpretation of “Altezza-style” for cars like the Honda Civic was, to put it mildly, unique. These aftermarket lights took the basic shape of the original Civic taillights but inserted a red, circular element that was vaguely reminiscent of the Altezza, but not quite.
Even those with a penchant for aftermarket car accessories at the time were often perplexed by these designs. APC car parts, particularly their lighting products, started gaining traction as retailers like Pep Boys began stocking them, aiming to capture the growing import and sport compact market. The arrival of APC Altezza taillights on store shelves marked the beginning of a widespread trend that would soon become ubiquitous.
APC capitalized heavily on the Altezza taillight trend, producing versions for a vast range of vehicles. From Civics and Accords to Chevy Astro vans, Ford Mustangs, and even motorhomes, if it had taillights, APC likely made an “Altezza” or “Euro” style replacement. These APC car parts multiplied rapidly, becoming a dominant visual element in the aftermarket car scene. The proliferation was so extensive that even owners of stock Lexus IS300s (the original Altezza) reportedly faced scrutiny, being mistaken for having aftermarket lights. APC’s interpretation often involved adding as many red and round elements as possible to square light housings, creating a look that some described as over-the-top.
Ironically, while riding this wave of popularity with their aftermarket lighting, APC reportedly failed to secure DOT (Department of Transportation) approval for many of these products. This oversight would later contribute significantly to their financial troubles and eventual demise. The lack of DOT approval meant many APC car parts, especially lighting, were not legally compliant for road use, a factor that would come back to haunt the company.
Expanding the APC Car Parts Empire: Beyond Lighting
Beyond the infamous Altezza taillights, APC aimed to become a one-stop shop for all things aftermarket. As the import car scene boomed, APC sought to capitalize on every possible trend and accessory. Their product range expanded dramatically, encompassing a wide spectrum of APC car parts.
For retailers like Kragen Auto Parts (later O’Reilly Auto Parts), APC’s rise was significant. Kragen, traditionally focused on domestic aftermarket parts, dedicated substantial retail space to APC products to tap into the growing import market. The sheer volume and variety of APC car parts were hard to ignore.
APC’s catalog included virtually everything imaginable for car customization. Neon accessories were a major category, featuring neon floor plates, underbody kits, and interior lighting. They also ventured into body kits, even creating a Dodge Neon body kit (somewhat ironically) alongside kits for other models. Racing seats, steering wheels, cigarette lighters, and even more niche items filled out their extensive product line. The breadth of APC car parts was truly comprehensive.
However, the quality of APC car parts was a frequent point of criticism. While the sheer variety was impressive, the craftsmanship often left much to be desired. Reports of defective products and parts falling apart were common. The “American” in American Products Company seemed to be more of a marketing term than a reflection of manufacturing origin or quality control.
One peculiar example of APC’s product choices was their air intakes. While offering intakes for a wide range of vehicles was typical for aftermarket companies, APC’s intakes were often distinguished by their use of yellow silicone boots and filters. The reason for this color choice remained unclear and became a minor point of bemusement among enthusiasts.
Products like illuminated “diamond cut” floor plates further exemplified APC’s approach. The functionality and aesthetic appeal of such items were questionable to many, yet they were part of APC’s broad offering in the aftermarket car parts world.
Interior accessories, including steering wheels, also fell under the APC umbrella. While steering wheel replacements can be a popular customization, APC’s designs sometimes missed the mark, adding to interiors that were already considered aesthetically challenged. Despite the availability of a wide range of APC car parts, the overall impact on vehicle aesthetics was often debated.
APC even produced body kits, including widebody kits for cars like the EP3 Honda Civic and newer Ford Mustangs. At car shows like Hot Import Nights, Pep Boys displays often featured vehicles showcasing APC body kits and accessories, demonstrating the company’s significant presence in the aftermarket scene at the time.
Racing seats were another category in the APC car parts lineup. However, similar to other products, the quality and construction of APC racing seats were frequently criticized. Concerns about build quality and durability were common among consumers.
The RSX Civic Conversion: An Extreme Example of APC Aftermarket
One of the more unusual and memorable APC car parts was their RSX front-end conversion kit for Honda Civics. While the origin of this idea may predate APC, they offered a readily available kit that included a “C-West” style front bumper, conversion fenders, RSX headlights, and a “Mugen” style hood. This kit allowed owners of older Civics to drastically alter their car’s appearance to resemble a newer Acura RSX (Honda Integra in some markets).
Fortunately for some, and unfortunately for others, the RSX Civic conversion kit did not become a widespread trend. It represented a particular approach to car modification that was characteristic of a certain era in the aftermarket scene.
APC’s lasting legacy is undeniably linked to the “Altezza” taillight craze. They played a significant role in shaping the “ricer” movement and the broader tuner culture of the early 2000s. APC windshield banners, Altezza taillights, “Mugen Replacement” grilles, and a plethora of interior accessories became hallmarks of a particular style of car modification. While often derided by some, APC car parts made car customization accessible to a wider audience, allowing casual car owners to engage in modifying their vehicles.
However, this accessibility also contributed to some negative aspects, including the rise of “ricer” culture, questionable modifications, and safety concerns related to non-DOT approved lighting. By 2009, APC was no longer a prominent force in the automotive community. While Altezza taillights and other remnants of the APC era occasionally surface, the company’s significant influence on the aftermarket “tuner” scene has diminished.
APC’s story serves as a retrospective on a specific period in automotive aftermarket history. They were a company that, despite criticisms regarding quality and style, undeniably left a mark on the car modification landscape, especially in the realm of APC car parts and accessories.
