Zooming in on the perfect car accessories

Lead in: The sheer variety of car accessories available in the market today can leave you confused. To save on costs and avoid unnecessary add-ons, study, select and then shop for the best deal. Click here for advice on making smart choices in car accessories.

What separates an ordinary car from a suave automobile, especially when both the cars are of the same model? Many a times, it is the accessories. Car accessories go a long way in adding style quotient to your car, making it more personalised.

Most often, the car you buy comes pre-installed with a few basic accessories. However, you would want to customise and spruce up your car as per your taste. You can strike a good deal by choosing a combined accessories package from an auto dealer. Generally, these packages include a range of car accessories from seat or steering covers to audio systems with CDs. Purchasing the required accessories in a single package would be more cost effective than getting each separately.

There is such an interesting array of car accessories available in the market today that the sheer variety is likely to confuse you. Following the latest car news will help you stay in touch with the developments in this space.

A few important car accessories which are worth a dekko and your penny are:

Seat covers
The basic and most useful form of car accessory, they not only protect the car seat upholstery but also add a dash of colour to the car's interiors.

Audio systems
The pleasure of driving is enhanced if you have music on the go. Install a car music system of good quality, so that you can avoid maintenance and repair costs in the long run. Initially you can exclude high-tech additions like stereo woofers, sub-woofers, tweeters or amplifiers.

Security systems
From car alarms to tracking devices, security systems make for a sound investment. The recent introduction of technologically advanced devices like ignition system immobilisers, GPS tracking systems, wireless security systems, etc. in the automotive accessories circuit can be used to secure your car from theft and burglary.

GPS navigation systems
The GPS devices in the automotive navigation systems assist drivers in finding their way around unknown routes, besides suggesting the shortest and quickest route to the destination.

A few extras
Mud caps and car mats help keep a car clean. Mud caps are useful especially in the monsoons. These accessories protect the tyres and wheels from splashes, dirt, grime and debris. Car mats, on the other hand, protect the carpets from spillage inside the car. These are particularly beneficial while driving with children or pets.

Follow these simple guidelines to buy the most appropriate car accessories without spending a bomb:

• Research well before buying
• Practice comparison shopping
• Purchase only the essentials
• Ensure that most of the accessories are installed immediately after buying the car before you hit the road
• Follow the latest car news, which includes launch of new accessories

Add-ons like wheel rims, spoilers, steering wheel covers, hub caps, roof racks can be considered if their utility makes a considerable difference to the driving experience.