Whether your car is brand new or the new car smell wore off long ago, these cool accessories will help you customize it to match your personality. They range from practical gadgets that improve functionality to decorative touches that spruce up your interior.
Some upgrades require mechanical experience, but many are easy for anyone to do. Read on to learn about the best upgrades that will boost performance and make your vehicle look better.
Bluetooth Audio Receiver
If you want to upgrade your car without purchasing a new stereo, you can add Bluetooth to the old one with a simple Bluetooth receiver. These devices plug into a 3.5 mm auxiliary port and allow you to wirelessly connect your phone to the radio for music streaming.
Look for Bluetooth audio receivers that support the latest Bluetooth 5.0 technology (or higher), and also feature high-quality sound codecs like aptX HD or aptX LL. These features will improve streaming quality, as well as reduce the amount of audio stutter when playing music or making hands-free calls.
Another option is to replace your existing double-din touchscreen head unit with a new one that features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. These units are more expensive, but give you all the functionality of a modern infotainment system. They can even be fitted to older cars using a special Bluetooth interface kit.
Head-Up Display
Head-up displays, or HUDs, are a popular upgrade for drivers. These systems project information like your rate of speed, the current speed limit, and navigation instructions directly onto your windshield. Originally used by military fighter pilots, the technology helps keep your eyes on the road and reduce distractions.
Most automakers include a built-in HUD in some models of their 2023 cars. However, they’re mainly found in luxury brands like BMW, Cadillac, Jaguar, and Lincoln.
Alternatively, you can purchase an aftermarket third-party HUD system. These are box-like units that plug into your car’s dashboard. They draw on GPS and your vehicle’s onboard diagnostics (OBD2) port for programmable information. The display size averages 5 inches. The devices are also portable and can be transferred from one vehicle to another. Some are even smartphone-compatible. Look for the Automotive Discount Code to save on these aftermarket HUD systems and enhance your car's technology features.
SiriusXM
XM and Sirius satellite radio beam music, sports, talk, news, and entertainment from orbiting satellites for a subscription fee. It’s like having your radio station, and it can be especially useful when driving out of town.
Car manufacturers have been promoting SiriusXM, and many new vehicles come with it pre-installed. But you can get SiriusXM in older cars too, and you can do it without replacing your radio.
You just need a SiriusXM receiver and a compatible cradle or boombox. The receiver is connected to a special antenna mounted in the trunk or roof of your car, and it picks up signals from satellites in the sky. The signals are broadcast over a satellite radio channel that’s used to deliver audio programming, and they also carry data channels that can be utilized with capable receivers or graphical display hardware.
Turbocharger or Supercharger
There is no question that Americans love speed. We have turned running from revenue agents during Prohibition into a popular sport, we have races in NASCAR, and movies featuring fast cars always do well at the box office.
One way to get more speed is by installing a turbocharger or supercharger on your car. These are both forced induction parts that increase your engine's horsepower by adding more air to it.
Both add a lot of power to your car but they work differently. A supercharger is directly connected to the crankshaft, so as soon as you hit the accelerator it will turn on and boost your speed.
A turbocharger has a turbine that is driven by the car's exhaust, so it can only work at higher speeds when driving. It also uses fuel all the time so it's not very good for fuel economy.
OBD2 Code Reader
If you're a do-it-yourselfer, or the friend nonenthusiasts turn to for car advice, an OBD2 code reader is a must. These plug into the OBD2 port, an easy-to-identify trapezoid-shaped connector noted in your owner's manual, and under the dashboard.
The scanner reads the codes and live data your vehicle's computer system generates to alert you of an issue. It also displays monitor and I/M readiness status, freeze frame info, O2 sensor info, and evap system test capabilities (for US models with a charcoal canister to capture and store fuel-vapor emissions).
This one from MotoPower has a large color display, is compatible with seven languages, and works on most 1996 and newer cars and trucks. It was one of the pricier options in Haynes' testing, but it earned our Best Buy award for its good quality feel and robust feature set.
SiriusXM Satellite Radio
The subscription-based SiriusXM satellite radio service is an audio streaming service that offers music, entertainment, news, sports, and more. It also has a lot of exclusive content, such as Howard Stern shows and an NBA channel (which was replaced in 2008 by Sporting News Radio).
Many manufacturers have included SiriusXM as standard equipment in new vehicles. But, if you have an older vehicle, Crutchfield has several SiriusXM kits from VAIS Technology that are installed behind your factory stereo for seamless integration. These kits form a direct connection between your factory stereo and SiriusXM receiver, so you won’t have to worry about interference or poor sound quality.
Some of these kits allow you to use your factory stereo controls and steering wheel buttons for convenience. Others include a remote, so you can change stations from the seat of your car.
GPS Navigation
If you're tired of using paper maps and want to upgrade your navigation system without buying a new vehicle, there are many ways to do so. One way is to simply suction cup mount your smartphone to the dashboard and download a navigation app. This is the easiest way to do it, and it doesn't require any wiring. Alternatively, you can purchase an update for your car's onboard GPS from the supplier that makes it.
Amazon Echo Auto
Amazon’s voice assistant Alexa is in many homes, but it has yet to make its way into cars. Enter the Echo Auto, which brings modern functionality like hands-free music selection and navigation to older vehicles that don’t come with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
The device pairs to a smartphone via Bluetooth and plugs into the USB or auxiliary port in the vehicle. The setup process asks which mapping service you prefer, with options for Google Maps, Apple Maps, and the Google-owned Waze. Once you select a mapping service, Alexa will abide by it.
It comes with a mount that attaches to the air vent and a micro USB cable. A button on the device mutes the microphone and turns off Alexa for those who don’t want to be interrupted while driving. It also has a light bar to indicate its status.
LED Interior Lighting
Whether you leave for work before the sun rises or often drive after dark, it’s helpful to have interior lights in your car. LED lighting innovations have revolutionized car cabins with sleek, customizable, and energy-efficient options.
Unlike conventional bulbs, LEDs last longer and use less power than other types of lights. Plus, they’re available in a wide range of colors, and some models can even sync with your music.
A simple plug-and-play LED kit can help you customize your ride’s interior with an eye-catching display of colorful lights. These lights can be positioned in the cup holders or under the dashboard to create an appealing and unique design. Some LED kits also include map lights that make it easier to navigate your trunk at night. Look for Voucher Code for DENALI Electronics deals to save on these LED kits and enhance your car's interior lighting.
Interior Storage
Car upgrades don’t have to be limited to engine modifications or bodywork. Interior improvements can make your cheap car feel more like a luxury vehicle and give you a more enjoyable driving experience.
For example, a dash cover can transform your dull dashboard with velour or vinyl wraps starting at around $20. A phone mount elevates your device to eye level for safer navigation and enables hands-free audio use, while air vent covers can add some extra flair with styles from simple chrome to rhinestone-encrusted four-packs starting at $15.
Door light projectors are another inexpensive way to show your personality when you open your car doors, with two packs of logo displays available for under $20. You can also improve the look of your wheels by adding wheel covers to match your car’s style. These are easy, low-cost upgrades that will help you stand out from the crowd.
Conclusion
Upgrading your car with accessories can make a significant difference in your driving experience. From practical solutions like phone mounts and seat covers to fun gadgets like dash cameras and LED lights, these accessories can enhance your comfort, safety, and style on the road. So why not take your driving game to the next level with these top 10 must-have car accessories?
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