Cool Car Accessories You Didn’t Know You Needed Leave a comment

Whether you’re a daily commuter or an occasional road tripper, the right car accessories can significantly enhance your driving experience.

From safety to convenience, these accessories add value and comfort to your journey.

Here’s a detailed look at nine essential car accessories:

1. Dash Cam

A dash cam is a small camera mounted on your vehicle’s dashboard or windshield that continuously records the view through the front (and sometimes rear) windscreen.

It records video in real-time, typically in loops that overwrite older footage unless it’s saved. Many dash cams are equipped with sensors that detect sudden movements or impacts, automatically saving the footage of the incident.

Some models also offer a parking mode, which records when the vehicle is stationary, providing security even when you’re not around.

Benefits:

• Accident Evidence: In case of an accident, a dash cam provides clear, unbiased footage that can be crucial for insurance claims or legal disputes.
• Deterrent for Theft: The presence of a dash cam can deter potential thieves or vandals.
• Record Road Trips: It’s also a fun way to capture scenic drives or memorable journeys.

2. Portable Jump Starter

A portable jump starter is a compact, battery-powered device that can jump-start your car without the need for another vehicle.

It stores electrical energy and delivers a powerful charge to your car’s battery when needed. The device connects to your car’s battery via positive and negative clamps, providing the necessary power to start your engine.

In addition to jump-starting, many models include USB ports for charging devices, built-in flashlights, and even air compressors for added versatility.

Benefits:

• Emergency Use: Eliminates the need to wait for roadside assistance or rely on another vehicle to jump-start your car.
• Portable: Compact and easy to store in your trunk, making it a practical tool for emergencies.
• Versatility: Its additional features, such as phone charging and tire inflation, add more value to the device.

3. Tire Pressure Monitoring System

A Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is an electronic system that monitors the air pressure inside your tires and alerts you when it drops below a safe level.

It uses sensors mounted on each tire that continuously measure the tire pressure. If the pressure drops below the recommended level, the system sends an alert to your dashboard or a connected mobile app.

Some advanced systems provide real-time tire pressure readings, allowing you to monitor your tire health actively.

Benefits:

• Safety: Maintaining the correct tire pressure reduces the risk of blowouts, improves handling, and ensures better fuel efficiency.
• Convenience: You don’t need to manually check tire pressure, and you’re alerted to issues before they become serious.
• Tire Longevity: Properly inflated tires wear more evenly, extending their lifespan.

4. Bluetooth FM Transmitter

A Bluetooth FM transmitter allows you to stream music and take calls wirelessly from your smartphone through your car’s FM radio.

It pairs with your smartphone via Bluetooth and broadcasts the audio signal to an unused FM frequency on your car radio, allowing you to listen through your car’s speakers.

Many models include additional features like USB ports for charging devices, hands-free calling, and even voice command integration.

Benefits:

• Wireless Convenience: Stream music, podcasts, or navigation instructions without messy wires.
• Enhanced Sound: Enjoy high-quality audio through your car’s stereo system rather than your phone’s speakers.
• Hands-Free Calling: Make and receive calls safely while driving.

5. Car Phone Mount

A car phone mount is a device that securely holds your smartphone in place, typically attached to the dashboard, windshield, or air vent.

The mount has an adjustable grip or magnetic surface that holds the phone in place, positioning it within easy reach and view, making it accessible for navigation or hands-free calls.

Many mounts also allow for 360-degree rotation, enabling you to switch between portrait and landscape modes as needed.

Benefits:

• Safety: Keeps your phone in a stable position, reducing distractions and keeping your hands on the wheel.
• Navigation Aid: Makes it easier to follow GPS directions without having to hold your phone.
• Universal Compatibility: Most mounts are compatible with a wide range of smartphones and GPS devices.

6. Seat Covers

Seat covers are protective layers that fit over your car’s seats to protect them from wear, tear, and spills while enhancing the interior’s appearance.

They come in various sizes and designs to fit different car models and seat types. Available in materials like leather, fabric, and neoprene, seat covers offer different levels of protection and comfort.

They are easy to install, typically slipping over the seat and securing with straps or Velcro for a snug fit.

Benefits:

• Protection: Protects the original upholstery from stains, spills, and UV damage, preserving the car’s resale value.
• Comfort: Adds extra cushioning and comfort, especially on long drives.
• Style: Available in various designs and colors, seat covers allow you to customize the interior look of your car.

7. Car Vacuum Cleaner

A car vacuum cleaner is a compact, portable device designed to clean the interior of your car, removing dust, dirt, and debris from seats, floors, and other surfaces.

It is usually powered via the car’s 12V outlet or comes in cordless models with rechargeable batteries. Car vacuums come with various attachments, such as crevice tools, brushes, and extension hoses, making it easier to clean different areas of the car.

They are designed with sufficient suction power to lift dirt from carpets, upholstery, and other surfaces efficiently.

Benefits:

• Cleanliness: Keeps your car interior clean and free from dust, crumbs, and debris.
• Convenience: Portable and easy to store in the trunk, making it ideal for quick clean-ups.
• Versatility: Can be used to clean tight spaces that are difficult to reach with standard vacuums.

8. Car Air Purifier

A car air purifier is a device designed to remove pollutants, allergens, and odors from the air inside your vehicle, improving the air quality. It draws in air and passes it through filters that trap dust, pollen, smoke, and other particles.

Some models use ionization technology to remove airborne particles by emitting negative ions. The purifier plugs into the car’s power outlet and operates continuously, maintaining clean air throughout your drive.

Benefits:

• Improved Air Quality: Removes harmful pollutants and allergens, making the air inside your car healthier to breathe.
• Odor Removal: Effectively eliminates bad odors, leaving your car smelling fresh.
• Allergy Relief: Particularly beneficial for those with allergies or respiratory issues, as it reduces the presence of triggers.

9. Blind Spot Mirrors

Blind spot mirrors are small, convex mirrors that attach to the side mirrors of your car, providing a wider field of view and reducing blind spots.

The convex shape of the mirror allows you to see areas that are not visible in the regular side mirrors. These mirrors attach easily to your existing side mirrors using adhesive backing.

Many blind spot mirrors can be adjusted to provide the optimal view for the driver, enhancing visibility and safety.

Benefits:

• Increased Safety: Reduces blind spots, helping to prevent accidents during lane changes or merging.
• Easy Installation: Simple to install and adjust, requiring no special tools.
• Enhanced Awareness: Improves your ability to see other vehicles, pedestrians, or obstacles in your blind spots.

Conclusion

Outfitting your vehicle with these nine essential car accessories can greatly enhance your driving experience, improve safety, and add convenience to your daily commutes or road trips.

Whether it’s ensuring your tires are in good condition, maintaining a clean interior, or staying safe with a dash cam, these accessories are well worth the investment.