20 Awesome Car Accessories
Let’s see how close to Knight Rider we can get here.
‘Member that one episode of The Simpsons where Homer buys a bunch of random stuff to plug into his car’s dashboard? Y’know, a TV, a sound system, a fog machine, etcetera. With all the kooky advancements in car tech these days, it’s actually quite possible to have a lot of neat accessories to make your driving experience a little more comfortable (or interesting). Just, y’know, don’t plug them all in at once, or you’ll end up driving off a dock like Homer did.
20. Ion Audio Cassette Bluetooth Adapter
If your car still has a stereo that takes cassettes, well, first of all, good job keeping that thing running all these years. But if you want to broadcast music from a phone but don’t have bluetooth capability, this faux-cassette will allow you to stream music (and phone calls) through that old stereo! Who says you can’t teach an old car new tricks?
19. Handpresso
I’m not a fan of coffee personally, but some folks can’t start their day without it. Now you can get a fresh cup right in your driver’s seat. Just plug the Handpresso into your cigarette lighter, load it up with your favorite grounds or a pod, and get a quick shot of the strong stuff.
18. MotorMood
It can be difficult to convey your feelings to other drivers on the road. If you want to let another motorist know you appreciate them, try this little doodad. The MotorMood is a series of car mounted emojis that light up with the press of a small remote. They only convey positive messages, however; if you were hoping for something a little more… assertive, you’re out of luck.
17. Drop Stop
There is nothing more existentially frustrating than dropping your keys into the seat gap when you’re about to leave for work. Instead of scratching up your hands trying to reach down there, just stop it from happening with a Drop Stop. Just stick it in there, and voila: the Carmuda Triangle is defeated.
16. Cooluli Mini Fridge
You know you’ve officially become cool when you’ve got a fridge in your car. This lightweight, USB-powered fridge can hold up to six cans of your favorite beverage at once, keeping them at an optimal cool temperature. Or, if you have something you want to keep warm (like, I don’t know, bacon or something), the Cooluli also has a handy warming mode.
15. Escort Max 360
Technically speaking, I shouldn’t encourage speeding. Buuuut, if you were to, I don’t know, get an Escort Max radar scanner to detect and avoid speed traps, well, how would I ever know? It’ll be our speedy little secret.
14. BeatIt Jump Starter
When your car fizzles out, there will usually be a good Samaritan willing to give you a jump. In the event that there isn’t, however (or you’re in the middle of a desert), this thing can give you a quick jolt. As an added bonus, it features two USB charging ports and a built-in flashlight. That way, you can get some light while you’re jumping, and then charge your phone afterward!
13. Ztylus Stinger
It’s a little scary to think about, but there may be a time in your life where you’re trapped in your car when you’d really rather not be. In these times, the Stinger can be your lifeline. This spring loaded prong can quickly and precisely shatter a passenger-side window, and the built in blade can cut off a tangled seat belt. Safety is no joke.
12. Tile Mate Tracker
If you’re a forgetful sort and the ol’ bowl-by-the-door isn’t cutting it, try this handy key tracker. The Tile Mate slides right onto a keychain, and the accompanying smartphone app can quickly tell you their location. The tracker also fits in most wallets if you’re prone to forgetting that as well.
11. LILER Portable Car Trash Can
If you’re anything like I was in high school, you’re usually content to let trash accumulate in your car’s various nooks and crannies. Don’t do that, it’s gross. Instead, try LILER’s portable trash can. It hangs comfortably from a glove compartment, and can hold a healthy volume of unwanted receipts, gum wrappers, and random dust bunnies.
10. DMOS Stealth Shovel
If you live up north-ways, you know how irritating it is to have your car buried in a sudden snow storm. You’re gonna need a tough partner to get out of that mess. The DMOS Stealth Shovel is constructed from aircraft grade aluminum, guaranteed not to bend, break, or rust. And when the job’s done, the telescopic body folds up for neat storage in the trunk.
9. Park Zone PZ-1600
Find yourself frequently bumping the back of your garage? Forget that dumb tennis ball trick, try this nifty gizmo. The Park Zone sensor hooks right onto your car, and carefully guides you into optimal parking with a simple stop light system. No more knocking the trash cans over.
8. VANMASS Wireless Phone Car Charger Mount
A product of modern sensibilities, the VANMASS phone mount acts as both a wireless charger and a, well, phone mount. Assuming your phone has a wireless charging function, you can charge it up while still using it as a map or a music player or whatever else your little heart desires. Best of all, the special auto-clamping sensor will keep the phone from falling out.
7. Wondergel Seat Cushion
The main reason I don’t particularly care for long drives is the aching mess they reduce the ol’ glutes to. If your butt’s gonna be in that seat for a while, it might as well be comfortable. The Wondergel cushion conforms perfectly to your body’s contours and weight, and its special composition keeps it firm and jiggly, not to mention cool.
6. Zone Tech Steering Wheel Desk
The human lap was not designed to accommodate a proper meal. You’re just begging for crumbs and ketchup everywhere if you don’t use a proper surface. Try the Zone Tech Steering Wheel Desk; it clips right onto your wheel and gives you a sturdy, flat surface to eat and work off of. Just, y’know, don’t use it while driving, obviously.
5. Heininger CommuteMate DashGrip
Assuming you don’t have an ashtray or unused cupholder for all of your various odds and ends, this sticky dude can keep it all firmly in one place. The CommuteMate cleanly sticks to your car’s dashboard, and will keep a firm grip on change, house keys, electronics, whatever. And if you need to move it, it peels right off with no residue.
4. Bactrack S80 Professional Breathalyzer
This is technically more of a personal accessory than a car accessory, but it’s car-related. Drinking and driving is a big no-no, and assuming you’re lucid enough to be concerned for your safety, this handy breathalyzer will let you know if you’re over the limit. The S80 uses the same tech as police-grade breathalyzers, so if it starts beeping, it’s time to call an Uber.
3. YI Mirror Dash Cam
It’s a dangerous world out there. It’s always good to have an extra set of eyes looking out for you (and your insurance premiums). The YI Mirror Cam latches right onto your rear-view mirror, and provides a nice, wide view of the road ahead. There’s also an included second camera to point at yourself, and they can both record in full HD.
2. ZEEPIN Tire Pressure System.
I never seem to know what the state of my tires are, at least until they start sagging. With ZEEPIN’s tire pressure monitor, it ideally won’t come to that. Hook the four remote pegs onto your tire valves, and the dashboard monitor will keep a real-time check of their pressure. And don’t worry about batteries, it’s solar-powered!
1.Fix-A-Flat
This may seem a bit gauche, but even a humble product like Fix-A-Flat can be a godsend in a pinch. If your tire’s got a small tear or puncture, stick a can of Fix-A-Flat into the valve. Not only will the tire re-inflate, but the special chemical will patch the puncture. Modern Fix-A-Flat formulas are also safe with tire sensors, so don’t worry about that.