Car Accessorise with Style: Elevating Your Car

In today’s dynamic world, cars are not just modes of transportation but are also extensions of one’s personality and style. People spend a significant amount of time in their vehicles, and enhancing the comfort, functionality, and aesthetic appeal of these spaces has become more important than ever. That’s where essential car accessories play a pivotal role, ensuring that your ride is not only comfortable and efficient but also mirrors your personal style and preferences.

What are Car Accessories?

Car accessories are additional items or products installed in vehicles to improve their functionality, comfort, convenience, and aesthetic appeal. These accessories can broadly be classified into two categories:

1. Interior Accessories: These are designed to improve the comfort and design of the car's internal space. Examples include seat covers, floor mats, steering wheel covers, sun shades, and mobile holders. Interior accessories also encompass tech gadgets like stereo systems, GPS navigators, and reverse parking cameras that enhance the vehicle’s functionality and the driving experience.

1. Exterior Accessories: These accessories are meant to augment the external look and performance of the car. This category includes items like bumper guards, window visors, roof racks, and car body covers. Exterior accessories not only embellish the vehicle's appearance but also offer protection against various environmental factors and potential damages.

Investing in high-quality essential car accessories for new cars can significantly elevate your driving experience, providing both practical benefits and a sense of personalisation to your vehicle. Whether it’s about making a style statement, safeguarding your car, or simply making your drives more enjoyable and comfortable, the right accessories can make all the difference.

20 Useful Car Accessories You Should Check Out! 

Car accessories offer an excellent way to make your vehicle more functional, comfortable, and personalised. Here’s a curated list of the most essential car accessories that are not only practical but can also elevate your driving experience:

1) Neck & Back Rest:

Overview:

Long drives can often lead to discomfort and pain in the neck and back. A quality neck and back rest can provide the necessary support to alleviate this discomfort, making your drives smoother and more enjoyable.

Benefits:

1. Ergonomic Design: These rests are designed to support the natural curve of your spine, reducing the strain on your neck and back.
2. Comfort: Made with high-quality memory foam or other cushioning materials, they offer comfort and reduce fatigue during long trips.
3. Easy to Install: Most neck and backrests are easy to attach and adjust, fitting seamlessly into your car’s interior.

2) Air Purifier:

Overview: 

With rising pollution levels, especially in urban areas, maintaining a clean and healthy environment inside your car is crucial. An air purifier can help filter out pollutants, allergens, and unpleasant odours, ensuring you breathe clean and fresh air while driving.

Benefits:

1. Purifies Air: Efficiently removes airborne particles, including dust, pollen, smoke, and PM2.5 pollutants, providing a healthier in-car environment.
2. Reduces Odours: Actively eliminates unpleasant smells and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), keeping the car interior fresh and pleasant.
3. Compact & Quiet: Most car air purifiers are compact, and designed to fit conveniently inside vehicles without taking up much space. They also operate quietly, without disturbing the driver or passengers.

3) Phone Mount:

Overview: 

In the era of navigation apps and hands-free calls, a phone mount is an indispensable accessory for drivers. It holds your smartphone securely in a place where you can see it without taking your eyes off the road.

Benefits:

1. Safety: A phone mount minimises distractions by providing a stable platform for your smartphone, allowing you to glance at directions or take calls without holding the device in your hands.
2. Accessibility: It gives easy access to your smartphone’s screen, making it convenient to operate while you’re driving.
3. Adjustability: Many phone mounts offer adjustable settings, letting you position your device in a way that’s most comfortable and visible for you.

4) Universal Charger:

Overview: 

Keeping your devices charged while on the move is crucial, especially on long journeys. A universal charger is a valuable accessory that ensures your smartphone and other electronic devices never run out of battery.

Benefits:

1. Compatibility: Designed to charge multiple devices, a universal charger is compatible with various gadgets like smartphones, tablets, and GPS devices.
2. Fast Charging: Many universal chargers available in the market offer quick charging capabilities, ensuring your devices are powered up in no time.
3. Multiple Ports: With multiple USB ports, these chargers can power up several devices simultaneously, making it a must-have accessory for people who carry multiple gadgets.

5) Floor Mats:

Overview: 

Floor mats are essential accessories that protect the vehicle’s floor from dirt, spills, and wear. Available in various materials and designs, they not only keep your car clean but also add an aesthetic touch to the interior.

Benefits:

1. Protective Barrier: They safeguard the vehicle's original flooring from damages caused by mud, water, and other debris.
2. Easy to Clean: Floor mats are removable and washable, making it easier to maintain cleanliness inside the car.
3. Customisation: With an array of designs and materials to choose from, you can select floor mats that match your car's interior and your personal style.

6) Portable Vacuum Cleaner:

Overview: 

For those who wish to keep their car’s interior immaculate, a portable vacuum cleaner is a must-have. Compact and efficient, it helps remove dust, crumbs, and other small debris from your vehicle.

Benefits:

1. Effective Cleaning: With strong suction and various attachments, portable vacuum cleaners can reach nooks and crannies where dirt often accumulates.
2. Cordless Options: Many models are cordless, providing greater flexibility and ease of use inside the vehicle.
3. Lightweight and Compact: Their small size and lightweight design make them convenient to use and store in the car.

7) Fire Extinguisher:

Overview: 

A car fire extinguisher is a vital safety accessory that every vehicle should have. Designed to be compact and lightweight, these extinguishers can be lifesavers in the event of a fire emergency while on the road.

Benefits:

1. Quick Response: Having a fire extinguisher within arm’s reach allows for immediate response in case of a fire, potentially preventing a small flame from turning into a major blaze.
2. Safety First: It provides a sense of safety and security knowing that you're equipped to handle fire emergencies.
3. Compact Design: Car fire extinguishers are designed to be small and portable, making it easy to store them in a vehicle without taking up much space.

8) Seat Cushion:

Overview: 

Seat cushions provide additional comfort and support during drives. Made from various materials, like memory foam or gel, these cushions can make a significant difference, especially on long journeys.

Benefits:

1. Comfort: They offer extra padding, reducing the discomfort or pain that might occur during long periods of sitting.
2. Posture Support: Ergonomically designed cushions can improve your sitting posture, preventing backaches and providing support where needed.
3. Easy Maintenance: Seat cushions usually come with removable and washable covers, allowing for easy cleaning and maintenance.

9) Car Cam:

Overview: 

Car cams, or dash cams, are increasingly popular accessories that record real-time footage while you drive. Acting as an unbiased witness, a car cam can provide invaluable evidence in case of accidents or disputes.

Benefits:

1. Evidence Provider: In the event of an accident, the footage can serve as impartial evidence to determine fault and can be crucial during insurance claims.
2. Security: Some cams offer parking mode, recording incidents while you’re away from your vehicle, enhancing your car's security.
3. Peace of Mind: With a dash cam, drivers have an extra layer of protection and a sense of security while on the road.

10) Jump Starter:

Overview: 

A jump starter is an essential tool for every vehicle, especially during the colder months. This portable device allows you to jump-start your car without the need for another vehicle, proving to be a lifesaver when you find your car battery dead.

Benefits:

1. Emergency Helper: It provides instant power to start your vehicle when the battery is low, which is particularly crucial in emergencies.
2. Portable: Modern jump starters are compact and can be easily stored in your car without taking up much space.
3. Multi-Functional: Many jump starters come with additional features like USB ports to charge your devices, emergency lights, or even air compressors.

11) Tyre Pressure Monitor:

Overview: 

A tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) is an invaluable tool that constantly monitors the pressure in your vehicle’s tyres. It alerts the driver with a visual and/or audible warning if the tyre pressure falls below or rises above the recommended level.

Benefits:

1. Safety Assurance: Proper tyre pressure is crucial for safe driving. A TPMS provides real-time information, helping prevent tyre blowouts or flats that might lead to accidents.
2. Fuel Efficiency: Maintaining optimal tyre pressure helps in improving fuel efficiency, thus saving money on fuel.
3. Tyre Longevity: Regular monitoring and maintaining the right pressure increases the lifespan of tyres, reducing the need for frequent replacements.

12) Car Cover:

Overview: 

A car cover is a practical accessory that offers protection to your vehicle when parked outdoors or not in use. It shields the car from various elements, including dust, bird droppings, tree sap, and harsh weather conditions.

Benefits:

1. Protective Shield: It acts as a barrier against various environmental factors, keeping your car’s paint and finish intact.
2. UV Protection: Quality car covers provide UV protection, preventing the car’s paint and interior from fading due to sun exposure.
3. Security: A covered car is less tempting to potential thieves or vandals, providing an added layer of security.

13) Driving Gloves:

Overview: 

Driving gloves are not just a stylish accessory but also a functional one. They offer a better grip and comfort while driving, and can provide protection against extreme temperatures, making your driving experience more enjoyable.

Benefits:

1. Enhanced Grip: The gloves provide a secure grip on the steering wheel, offering better control while driving.
2. Comfort: Quality driving gloves offer comfort, especially during long drives or in extreme weather conditions.
3. Protection: They protect your hands from cold in the winter, while in the summer, they protect your hands from the hot steering wheel.

14) Bottle Jack:

Overview: 

A bottle jack is a hydraulic jack that is shaped like a small bottle but has the capacity to lift heavy vehicles. It’s a compact yet powerful tool that can be crucial when you need to change a tyre or perform some repairs under the vehicle.

Benefits:

1. High Lifting Capacity: Despite its small size, a bottle jack can lift heavy vehicles, making it an essential tool for drivers.
2. Portable: Its compact design makes it easy to store in your vehicle without taking up much space.
3. Durable: Made from hardy materials, bottle jacks are designed to withstand the rigours of lifting heavy loads repeatedly.

15) Mini-Fridge:

Overview: 

A car mini-fridge is a small and portable cooling device that can be easily installed in your vehicle. It's ideal for long drives, road trips, or camping, allowing you to store beverages, fruits, and other perishables.

Benefits:

1. Convenience: Having a mini-fridge provides the convenience of accessing cool drinks and fresh snacks without having to stop at stores, especially during long journeys.
2. Cost-Efficient: It helps save money as you can carry home-cooked food or buy groceries in bulk during travels.
3. Versatile: Some mini-fridges also have a heating function, allowing you to keep your food warm if needed.

16) Massage Cushion:

Overview: 

A massage cushion is a seat attachment designed to provide various types of massages while you drive. It helps relieve stress, tension, and muscle pain, making your driving experience more comfortable and enjoyable.

Benefits:

1. Stress Relief: Long hours of driving can be strenuous; a massage cushion helps reduce stress and fatigue, keeping you alert and relaxed on the road.
2. Portable Comfort: Lightweight and portable, these cushions can be easily moved and adjusted to fit your seat perfectly.
3. Therapeutic: With different settings available, you can choose the type of massage you want, targeting specific areas or opting for a full-back massage.

17) Car Trunk Organiser:

Overview: 

A car trunk organiser is a simple yet highly effective accessory designed to keep your vehicle’s boot neat and orderly. With various compartments and pockets, it allows you to securely store and organise items, preventing them from rolling around while driving.

Benefits:

1. Efficient Organisation: It helps categorise and separate different items, making them easily accessible and identifiable.
2. Space Maximization: An organiser helps utilise the trunk space efficiently, providing more room for luggage and goods.
3. Prevents Damage: By keeping items secure, it prevents damage to both the goods and the vehicle’s interior during transit.

18) Car Seat Organiser:

Overview: 

A car seat organiser is an accessory attached to the back of the front seats, offering additional storage space. It’s equipped with multiple pockets and compartments of varying sizes to accommodate different items, like bottles, toys, tablets, and notebooks.

Benefits:

1. Increased Storage: It provides extra storage space within arm’s reach, keeping the car’s interior tidy and clutter-free.
2. Convenient Access: Having an organiser allows passengers, especially children, to have easy access to their belongings, making journeys more enjoyable.
3. Easy Installation & Maintenance: Most car seat organizers are easy to install, remove, and clean, making them a hassle-free addition to your vehicle.

19) Escape Hammer:

Overview: 

An escape hammer is a life-saving tool designed to assist in a quick exit from the vehicle during emergencies. With a dual function of breaking glass windows and cutting seat belts, it’s a must-have safety accessory in every car.

Benefits:

1. Emergency Exit: It allows for a swift and safe vehicle exit in situations where doors may be jammed or inoperable.
2. Easy Accessibility: Compact and lightweight, the escape hammer can be stored within reach for immediate use when needed.
3. Dual Function: Equipped with a sharp seatbelt cutter and a hard-tipped hammer, it’s a multifunctional tool that addresses different aspects of car escape situations.

20) Anti-Theft Devices:

Overview: 

Anti-theft devices are designed to deter or prevent vehicle theft. These gadgets come in various types, including steering wheel locks, brake locks, tire locks, and advanced electronic alarm systems.

Benefits:

1. Theft Deterrent: Their visible presence alone can act as a significant deterrent to potential thieves, making them think twice before attempting theft.
2. Insurance Premium: Installing approved anti-theft devices can often lead to discounts on your car insurance premium.
3. Peace of Mind: Knowing that your vehicle has an extra layer of protection provides a sense of security, especially when parking in unfamiliar or unsecured areas.

Where Should You Buy Car Essentials From?

When looking for quality and reliable car accessories, consider the following options:

1. Authorized Dealerships: These outlets offer genuine accessories that are often backed by warranties. While their prices may be higher, the quality and compatibility with your vehicle are assured.
2. Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon, Flipkart, and specialized automotive accessory sites provide a wide range of products at various price points. Be sure to check customer reviews and ratings before making a purchase
3. Local Automotive Accessory Shops: These stores offer a mix of genuine and aftermarket accessories. When shopping at these outlets, it’s crucial to have some knowledge about the product you intend to buy or consult someone who does.
4. Automotive Expos and Exhibitions: Such events showcase a wide variety of accessories, often including the latest technologies and gadgets in the market. These expos are an excellent opportunity to explore and compare different products in person.

Impact of Accessories in Car Insurance

There are 2 ways in which car accessories come attached to a car - 

1. Auto-fitted: In case all of these car accessories come auto-fitted with the car, you can safeguard or increase protection against these accessories by going for a Zero Depreciation add-on cover
2. Outside fitting: In case these car accessories are externally fitted, you need to first provide this information to the insurance company. Post that you can go for coverage for both electrical and non-electrical accessories, with the appropriate premium being paid.

Electrical accessories would be –

1. LCD mini TV
2. Dash Camera
3. Music system
4. Air conditioners
5. Fog lights
6. Reverse parking sensors

Non - electrical accessories would be –

1. Seat covers
2. Alloy wheels or mag wheels,
3. Leather seats
4. CNG-kits
5. Bi-fuel systems

Final Thoughts

Accessorising your car not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also improves functionality, comfort, and safety. From ensuring a comfortable drive with seat cushions and neck rests to maintaining a clean and organised space with trunk and seat organisers, each accessory serves a purpose. Safety tools like escape hammers and anti-theft devices provide security and peace of mind, making them invaluable additions to your vehicle. Before making any purchases, ensure you buy from reputable sources and select products that are compatible with your vehicle’s make and model.

FAQs

1. Q: Do only branded car accessories have to be purchased?

A: While branded accessories frequently ensure quality and fitment with your car, non-branded alternatives can also be trustworthy if purchased from respectable vendors. Prior to buying, always read the reviews and consider doing a test run on the item.

2. Q: Will my car's performance be impacted by heavier accessories?

A: It is true that excessive weight gain might affect the car's overall performance and fuel economy. Maintaining optimal vehicle operation and the requirement for accessories must be balanced.

3. What legal limitations apply to auto accessories?

A: Certain accessories, such as excessively dark window tints or specific kinds of lights, may be controlled or outright banned. Before installing or buying any accessories, make sure you are aware of the local laws and ordinances in your area.

4. Should I hire a professional installer or try to install the accessories myself?

A professional installation may be necessary for certain accessories to guarantee proper and safe operation, even though some are simple to install. When in doubt, get advice from an expert.

5. Will my car's warranty be voided if I add accessories?

A: It is dependent upon the terms of the vehicle's warranty and the accessory. Before adding accessories, always read your warranty carefully to understand any limits or limitations.

6. Is purchasing secondhand auto accessories wise?

A: That is dependent upon the purpose and state of the accessory. Generally speaking, it's best to get fresh accessories for electronics or safety to ensure their dependability and efficiency.

7. How can I find out if an item fits my car?

A: Review the product's specifications, which ought to include a list of the vehicle makes and models it works with. If you're unsure, ask the vendor or a specialist.

8. If an accessory doesn't fit or function as planned, can I return it or swap it?

A: Each seller has different return and exchange policies. Before making a purchase, always review these policies, especially if it's a costly item.

9. Is it worthwhile to spend money on sophisticated accessories for an outdated car?

A: Depending on the overall state and anticipated longevity of the vehicle, the high-tech attachment may be worth the expenditure if it greatly improves safety or convenience.

10. What can I do to stop my recently bought accessories from being stolen?

A: Invest in anti-theft equipment; when selecting accessories, try to select items that can be taken off and stored securely when not in use. Always park in areas that are well-lit and secure.