Cars in the market come with some standard features. Much as we appreciate these features, we understand that they are not enough to complete your riding experience. To that end, we have listed the Top 10 Must-Have Car Accessories that will keep that smile as you tear down through the road.
These accessories are not only enjoyable, but they are also useful and necessary to ensure that you have a smooth and safe ride. Next time you invite some friends to a getaway, they will appreciate the environment of your car.
The market is full of accessories to sell, so don't feel limited by our list. But if you have a budget for only ten or so accessories, make sure these items are on your list.
1. Dash Camera
Any car owner knows that safety is paramount when on the road. As humans, our eyes are limited in terms of the scope of what we can see. A dash camera comes handy in such a case.
The camera offers a wide-angle lens with a pixel of 720p or 1080p. It provides for front and rear views. You can also get one that comes with an option of recording, which helps record accidents to make watertight insurance claims. The installation process is pretty much a simple task.
Other additional features of a dashcam include distance and proximity alert, gravity sensors and alert on high speed.
2. Heads-Up Display (HUD)
Next, we have the HUD on our list. This gadget has the purpose of projecting the GPS routing, which helps you even get a better image of the routes. The projections appear in front of you and save you the need to glance at your phone to ensure you don't miss a turn or your exit.
It helps keep your focus entirely on the road. It can be connected with iOS or Android, so you are well taken care of regardless of the system you use. It can also help you control the music you are listening to and manage your calls as well as texts.
3. Backseat Bag
Keep the interior of your car clean and organised. Imagine taking your family, including kids in your vehicle. We all know how kids like to carry along stuff such as bottles, power banks, sticky notes, and even lighters.
If not well packed, a sudden brake will get all this stuff strewn around, so get a back seat bag for organising things. It comes with pockets of different sizes to fit almost all your kids and friends stuff. Installing the kit on the back of the front seat is straightforward. These bags can accommodate a lot, including mobile devices, water bottles, stationery, and the like.
4. USB Charger
It is no fun when your smartphone runs out of juice in the middle of a trip. Phones can be very helpful in getting directions and also in emergencies. Not to mention entertainment, such as playing music.
If your car didn't come equipped with a USB charger, worry not. You can get a USB charger fitted to your vehicle. You can go for one that even supports multiple devices for the gadgets of your friends and family. This gizmo doesn’t cost a lot and can serve you for a long time.
5. Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
The tyre pressure monitoring system is a must-have accessory for your car, and it’s not hard to see why. It will check and keep track of your tyre's condition. This system comes with four sensors to ensure your tyre is in the right shape.
You'll get notified about parameters such as tyre pressure and also temperature. In case you get a puncture, or your tyres start losing pressure rapidly you'll get an alarm notification to let you know of the same.
The tyre pressure monitoring system is a must-have accessory as it helps ensure you are safe on the road.
6. Smartphone Mount
If you use your phone for navigation and directions, a smartphone mount is ideal for you. With this gizmo, you can place your phone on the dashboard without having to worry about it falling when you suddenly step on the brake pedal.
You can easily use your phone to pick those emergency calls without reaching for your pockets. The smartphone mount makes use of ultra-strong suction to hold your phone in place compactly. It lasts for long, so you don't have to worry about it getting damaged or broken.
7. Bluetooth Transmitter
Car owners who drive the older model cars understand how limiting it is not to have Bluetooth connectivity. Fortunately, you don't really need to buy a new vehicle to have Bluetooth support.
A Bluetooth car transmitter will provide you with an interface to link your phone to the car. You will then be able to play music from your phone through your car stereo. Who doesn't want to listen to a well-selected playlist while driving? Aside from that, it will also help you in managing incoming calls.
8. Air purifier/Freshener
As the name suggests, the car air purifier helps get rid of bad smell and odour and keep the air inside your car fresh and clean.
The air purifier also gets rid of smoke, keeping the supply of air to your lungs fresh.
9. Emergency Kit
Our top 10 priority list is incomplete without the car emergency kit. The kit comes with various tools that have a wide range of functionality to help you get out of a fix.
Some of the tools that you can find inside the kit include jumper cables, a typical army knife, some screwdrivers, and a pair of pliers. You can get a first aid kit as well.
10. Car Jack
Make sure to have a car jack handy whenever there's a need to fix a tyre. Rather than waiting for a tow truck, why not pack a spare tyre and a car jack, especially when taking a long journey? It will save you time as well as money.
Wrap Up
Regardless of the environment you want, these accessories sure got you covered. Be it keeping your interior tidy and fresh, charging your phone, playing music through your phone or saving your life - you can count on them.
Some cars, especially high-end models, may sport some of the doodahs. In case yours doesn't though, consider getting them installed. Our article on the Top 15 Auto Innovations of 2019 lists up-to-the-minute accessories, too. These modernistic additions go a long way when it comes to guaranteeing your safety and enjoyment while you drive. For more informative pieces and links to sellers of car parts and accessories, visit our rich resource at Carpart.com.au.
-Sam O.