Proud car owners are imminently aware of the level of care and contribution that goes into making sure their vehicle is in the best condition and they are able to enjoy a safe ride every time. From regular maintenance and tune-ups to proper tools and equipment on both the inside and outside of the car, there is no limit to how much effort can be made.
While the main focus is on vehicle safety and performance, a major part of the experience that comes with driving your own car is personalising it to make you feel like it’s truly yours. Sure, you need the basic tools to keep your car running, but there are plenty of other accessories that can be incorporated in order to truly make driving an enjoyable experience.
What Are the Most Important Car Accessories?
When you think of accessories, many of us assume they're not necessary and are purely for show. However, many of them can be extremely helpful for various reasons, either for style or safety, particularly in more rural or outdoor areas.
All-Weather Floormats
 |
| Source: carandbike.com |
If you've ever treaded through muddy terrain or had to navigate through wet patches, then you know what a nuisance wet floors can be. Once you enter your vehicle, you're basically spreading dirt all over the place and covering the carpets with mud. In most models, you can't exactly remove the bottom carpets and taking your vehicle to a car wash every time isn't practical either.
In these situations, having odour-absorbing and anti-bacterial car mats to protect your floor from any kind of mess is a crucial part of the equation. They're designed to fit right into the space between your pedals and the floorboard, with simple clips to hold them in place.
In terms of materials, PVC and rubber mats are good options as they're both durable and resilient. They'll keep everything clean, while also providing a nice look and feel to your interior. They stick to the floor and any liquids or particles will slide right off of them. Plus, they're easy to clean with just a bit of water and some mild soap.
Most car mats come with some additional padding across the surface, which adds an extra layer of comfort and can make it even easier to drive on extended routes. It's strategically placed to give your feet a little more cushioning, while also preventing them from slipping.
If you have a car mat, you'll be able to keep the interior of your car clean and organised for much longer. It protects the carpet and upholstery from any dirt, dust or moisture that may come in contact with them.
Seat Covers
Apart from car mats, another vital accessory for your vehicle is a set of seat covers. These are great for not only protecting the seats from accidental spills or stains but also adding a nice aesthetic upgrade to the interior.
Most seat covers are made from durable, breathable fabric that’s designed to resist wear and tear while also allowing you to remain comfortable on long drives. Plus, they come in a variety of colours and styles which can be easily customised to fit the interior of your car.
They're also easy to install as all you need to do is slip them over the seat and then use straps or hooks to secure them properly. Once they’re on, you can rest assured knowing that your seats will remain protected from everyday wear and tear.
Windshield Sun Protector
 |
| Source: caranddriver.com |
You'll inevitably be leaving your vehicle in the sun for extended periods, and that can cause fading to your dashboard or upholstery. This is where a windshield sun protector comes in handy, as it helps to block out UV rays and keep things cooler inside your car.
Most of these have suction cups attached to them which make installation quite simple. Even if they don't have them pre-attached, you can just stick them to your windshield with a bit of tape or just balance the protector on the window frame.
Phone Mount
When you're driving, it's important to keep your eyes on the road and both hands on the wheel. But sometimes, you need to use your phone for directions or music streaming. Fiddling with your device can be dangerous when you're driving, so having a mount to hold it in place is essential.
Phone mounts come in various styles and sizes. There are those that adhere to the windshield, while others clip onto the air vents or attach to the dashboard. Whichever type you choose, it should let you adjust your phone’s angle and position to make it easier to see the display.
Tire Air Compressor and Repair Kit
When a tire goes flat, you need to be able to fix it quickly so you can get back on the road. This is particularly true if you’re driving in a rural or remote area and don't have immediate access to help. Having an air compressor and repair kit at hand will ensure that you can get back on the move as soon as possible.
Most kits come with an air compressor, tire seals, and a pump to inflate the tires. You'll also find a few patch repair kits that have everything you need for fixing any punctures in your tire. With these nearby, you won't have to worry about being stranded if ever you experience a flat tire.
Jumper Cables and Portable Chargers
 |
| Source: gadgetviper.com |
We've probably all been in a situation where we forgot to turn off the headlights or ignition, and our car battery died overnight. This is incredibly frustrating if you're in a rush and don't have access to help.
It's wise to keep a set of jumper cables in your car just in case you ever find yourself in this kind of situation. These are great for jump-starting your vehicle when you're out of charge.
You can also consider getting a portable charger that plugs into your car’s lighter socket and provides power to the battery. This is quite useful for long trips where you may not be able to access an electrical outlet, allowing you to get back on track without having to call for help.
