There are so many ways that you can easily (and even affordably) upgrade your car to take it from its box-standard starting point to a truly comfortable experience that suits you to a T. Just as a house isn’t a home until you add those personal touches, a car without any upgrades is just a vehicle. Yes, they come with bells and whistles, but there’s more to a comfortable driving experience than heated seats.
With the average American spending just over an hour per day driving, it’s crucial that you consider all your options, including these top essential upgrades.
Window Tinting
Window tinting should be one of the first upgrades you ever make. Not only can you improve your vehicle’s privacy (and help deter opportunistic criminals in the process), but you can also reduce the damage caused by UV rays. Top-quality window tints block out up to 99% of UV rays and upwards of 85% of infrared heat, working to keep you cool, your skin healthy, and your drives far more pleasant.
Wind Deflectors
If you’re someone who enjoys driving with the window down, but not necessarily the way that the wind can beat your face, then consider adding wind deflectors. These are easily added to the sides of your windows, and come in a variety of shapes to add some personality to your car (and make it easier to find in a parking lot).
Air Filters
Most cars come with paper air filters, which is cheap to produce but can result in your engine not working as efficiently as it can (or should). That’s why one of the easiest and even cheapest upgrades you can make to your vehicle is to simply change it out for a performance variant. These are usually made out of oiled foam or cotton and can last a lifetime, making them an excellent way to improve your engine’s efficiency and reducing the need ever to chuck out and replace the air filter again.
Lower the Springs
If you flinch every time you go over a speed bump, then it’s time to consider lowering the springs. This works to improve your chassis, increase your fuel economy, and can even help with weight distribution, meaning you’ll be safer and more secure during a hard acceleration, brake, or taking a corner.
Upgrade Your Brake Pad
Another important safety upgrade you should consider is the brake pad. Brake pads are made up of a wide variety of different components, with some better suited to different conditions than others. That’s why it’s important that you check what conditions are best suited for your current brake pad, and if you live in an area that’s too hot or too cold, know you’ll want an upgrade.
Steering Wheel Cover
If your steering wheel doesn’t feel good in your hands, or if you want to add a bit of pizzazz to your vehicle, then consider a steering wheel cover. These can add additional padding or can help you kit out your interior to suit your tastes.
Rearview Mirror
You aren’t actually stuck with the rearview mirror your car comes with. If you find that it’s too small, or if you want something with a bit more capability, you can upgrade it for a smart rearview mirror with a digital screen built in, or simply a traditional one with a wider field of view.
