Which accessories should I buy for my new car?
Now that you have a brand-new car, it’s time to hit the road and put some miles on it. No matter how many bells and whistles it has, there are still a few accessories worth buying that may make your car trips safer or more enjoyable.
Choosing the right accessories for your new car involves taking stock of what you may need, both right now and in the event of emergencies. After all, you can never be too prepared for the open road.
What to know about car accessories
Items your new car may already have
Before you purchase accessories for your new car, take a look at the trunk. Depending on what’s there, you may be surprised to learn you need to purchase fewer items than you thought.
Newer vehicles, for example, often come with emergency essentials, like jumper cables, cones, flares and tire-changing tools. Many vehicles now display tire pressure on the dashboard, which means you won’t need to buy a separate tire pressure gauge.
Popular types of car seat accessories
There are hundreds, if not thousands of car accessories available. If you’re not sure which ones to select, consider approaching them based on these popular categories to make sure you cover what you need.
Practical items such as windshield wiper fluid are worth keeping in your garage so you can top up as soon as you run low. Many people keep small gas cans or toolsets in the trunk.
Other people opt for comfort accessories, including car seat cushions or padded steering wheel covers. While they aren’t required accessories, many drivers feel these items are appreciated during longer journeys, such as commutes and road trips.
Safety items, such as first aid kits and emergency escape hammers, are car tools that drivers buy and hope they never need. Regardless, they’re important to keep your car, and fortunately, they’re pretty affordable.
Car accessories you may need to think twice about
Some car accessories are fun to have, but they’re not very practical. A few of them may distract you, while others aren’t legal to use or mount on your vehicle in certain states.
Fuzzy dice and dashboard bobbleheads add a touch of personality, but they may be distracting while you’re driving. License plate frames and covers, including those that are tinted, are illegal in some states because they may obstruct visibility. Under-body neon lights look great at car shows, but they aren’t street-legal and may distract other drivers.
Best car accessories for your new car
First aid kit
SHBC Compact First Aid Kit: available at Amazon
This comprehensive 228-piece first aid kit includes basic necessities, such as bandages and alcohol wipes. The kit, which comes in a waterproof carry case, also includes emergency blankets and multifunctional tools.
Jumper cables
Cartman Booster Cables: available at Amazon
Pick up these UL-listed jumper cables that fit both top-and side-post batteries. They’re suitable for jumping full-size cars to mid-size trucks. The cables are designed to withstand use in plunging temperatures down to -13 degrees and are backed by a 5-year warranty.
GPS
Garmin Drive 51 GPS Navigator System: available at Amazon
Using your phone’s GPS apps drain battery and data. Instead, use a standalone GPS unit. This popular 5-inch Garmin model offers turn-by-turn directions and comes with lifetime maps. Drivers appreciate its user-friendly interface.
Removable coasters
WeatherTech CarCoasters: available at Amazon
Prevent stubborn beverage stains in cupholders by using these WeatherTech coasters made with the same material as the brand’s best-selling floor mats. The set includes four coasters with high walls to catch spills and crumbs before they land elsewhere.
Umbrella
StrombergBrand Spectrum Folding Umbrella: available at Amazon
It’s hard to predict when it will rain, so play it safe and have a car umbrella on hand. This affordable option has a 38-inch diameter and a high canopy to offer superior protection. The umbrella has a convenient auto-open button and closes down with little fuss.
Trunk organizer
Knodel Car Trunk Organizer with Lid: available at Amazon
Store car accessories inside this spacious trunk organizer. The heavy-duty design holds plenty of tools, groceries and other items. Made with 600D Oxford polyester, it holds up well through years of heavy use and handling.
Car wash kit
Chemical Guys 14-Piece Arsenal Builder Car Wash Kit: available at Amazon
Save big on car washes when you pick up this comprehensive kit by Chemical Guys. It includes over a dozen cleaning accessories, ranging from microfiber wash mitts to car wax to foaming upholstery cleaner.
Windshield shade
AstroAI Car Sun Shade: available at Amazon
Keep your car cooler with these sun shades that are easy to set up and take off within seconds. The shades, which come in two-piece sets to achieve the best windshield fit, are available in three sizes.
Steering wheel tray
Cutequeen Eating/Laptop Steering Wheel Desk: available at Amazon
Whether you chow down or work inside your car, this steering wheel desk makes it far more enjoyable. The lightweight desk is deep enough to hold a laptop and has a cupholder to secure your morning coffee.
Weatherproof cover
iCarCover All-Weather Waterproof Auto Cover: available at Amazon
Protect your car from the elements with this all-season waterproof car cover. A premium design, the cover has three layers of material that keep out UV rays and debris. It’s lined with soft, no-scratch material to prevent damage to paint, headlights and windows.
Air compressor
EPAuto Portable Air Compressor: available at Amazon
Pump up a flat tire in no time with this digital tire inflator that plugs right into the cigarette socket. The user-friendly device has an easy-to-read display and an automatic shut-off once the desired tire pressure is reached.
Pet car seat cover
VIEWPETS Bench Car Seat Cover: available at Amazon
This full-length car seat cover protects upholstery from scratches, hair and urine. It’s easy to fit to most vehicles thanks to a convenient strap system. The cover comes in four colors to match upholstery.
Sian Babish is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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