There was a time not long ago when the hottest car accessories consisted of eight-track players and stick-on compasses. Thankfully, those days are long gone. But just because you drive a used car or truck, does not mean it can be outfitted to meet your own particular needs and desires.
Today's automobiles are light years away than those bare-bones forms of transportation of yesteryear. Modern drivers count on their vehicles to carpool entire departments, entertain restless and road-weary kids, and serve as mobile offices. The times they are a-changing, and have brought about a growing demand for gadgets and gizmos to provide a comfortable and productive trip. We can choose from coffee cup warmers and shiatsu seat covers to soothe our souls and video game portals and DVD players to calm our broods.
GPS, or Global Positioning System units, are among the most impressive examples of modern mobile gadgetry. With a GPS system on board, you can view local maps and receive accurate directions from virtually any point on the road. These are considered essential equipment for fast-moving professionals needing to navigate urban city streets and travelers exploring the less-beaten paths.
Since cars and trucks have taken the leap from luxury to necessity for many occupations or hobbyists, manufacturers have worked hard to meet the growing demand by offering a selection of accessories suited to car owners of all budgets. The market has been flooded with accessories and it's hard to know what's best, or even what's necessary.
Here are some tips about what to look for, and what to avoid.
Know What You Need
They key to making any successful purchase is in the research. Find out what you need first, and then shop around for the best price. The Internet is a great resource, with countless online articles, user forums and product comparisons available. You can also purchase everything your car needs online. Internet auctions are great spots to find quality products at low prices. Internet marketers are able to sell their products at a lower price because they have lower overhead. There are no retail rental fees or expenses so they can, in turn, offer lower prices.
Shop and Compare
Once you know exactly what you need or want, it certainly does pay to shop around. Because of the huge demand for quality automotive accessories, there is also an ever-growing market. Check prices at several outlets, and include smaller stores, and don't be afraid to haggle for the best deal.
Ask Other Owners and Friends
At the end of the day, every retailer is out to make a buck. But some vendors will try to cash in big time, by overwhelming you with slick pitches and a huge repertoire of brand names. In the end, shoppers purchase items they really don't need. Be prepared with the information you need before you visit the store, and don't fall for the retailer's pushy sales tactics. Ask other car owners about accessories they've purchased. Read industry magazines and research online. Shop around to compare features, quality and prices. Some smart comparative information today can save you a lot of money down the road.
Avoid the Add-Ons
Trying to force buyers to take additional accessories is one of the oldest sales and marketing tricks in the book. It's like being pressured to buy a belt when you pick up a new pair of pants. The same holds true in the car accessories market. Just because a retailer tells you that you really need a neon green GPS cover, it's not necessarily true. Ask a friend or trusted mechanic who is familiar with car accessories and get a reliable opinion on what you should -- and shouldn't -- buy.
Quality You Can Count On
As with any product, you need to know at least the basic details of the warranty before making the purchase. Understand the retailer's return or replacement policy in the event that the item doesn't work in your car, fails to meet your expectations, or malfunctions.
Look Before You Buy
You should have the opportunity to inspect the product before agreeing to purchase it. Of course, this is not an option with Internet purchases, so make sure you're dealing with a reputable online dealer. Many retail stores ask that you sign a receipt stating that the product is in good condition upon receipt, and doing so may mean waiving your rights to return the product if it is indeed damaged.
OEM Parts and Accessories
Opt for OEM or "Original Equipment Manufactured" car and truck accessories whenever possible. This usually ensures that the quality is first-rate and the warranty will provide purchase protection.
Car accessories not only make driving more convenient, they can also impact your safety while on the road. Being prudent in your choice of what to buy and where to shop can ultimately save your life, so don't make price your first priority. Safety concerns should always come first, so don't compromise quality just to get a good deal.
Remember to have fun shopping. If your search for driving accessories is giving you a big headache, maybe it is not worth it. Don't give in to pressure that says you have to accessorize; just do it because it is fun for you.
Today's automobiles are light years away than those bare-bones forms of transportation of yesteryear. Modern drivers count on their vehicles to carpool entire departments, entertain restless and road-weary kids, and serve as mobile offices. The times they are a-changing, and have brought about a growing demand for gadgets and gizmos to provide a comfortable and productive trip. We can choose from coffee cup warmers and shiatsu seat covers to soothe our souls and video game portals and DVD players to calm our broods.
GPS, or Global Positioning System units, are among the most impressive examples of modern mobile gadgetry. With a GPS system on board, you can view local maps and receive accurate directions from virtually any point on the road. These are considered essential equipment for fast-moving professionals needing to navigate urban city streets and travelers exploring the less-beaten paths.
Since cars and trucks have taken the leap from luxury to necessity for many occupations or hobbyists, manufacturers have worked hard to meet the growing demand by offering a selection of accessories suited to car owners of all budgets. The market has been flooded with accessories and it's hard to know what's best, or even what's necessary.
Here are some tips about what to look for, and what to avoid.
Know What You Need
They key to making any successful purchase is in the research. Find out what you need first, and then shop around for the best price. The Internet is a great resource, with countless online articles, user forums and product comparisons available. You can also purchase everything your car needs online. Internet auctions are great spots to find quality products at low prices. Internet marketers are able to sell their products at a lower price because they have lower overhead. There are no retail rental fees or expenses so they can, in turn, offer lower prices.
Shop and Compare
Once you know exactly what you need or want, it certainly does pay to shop around. Because of the huge demand for quality automotive accessories, there is also an ever-growing market. Check prices at several outlets, and include smaller stores, and don't be afraid to haggle for the best deal.
Ask Other Owners and Friends
At the end of the day, every retailer is out to make a buck. But some vendors will try to cash in big time, by overwhelming you with slick pitches and a huge repertoire of brand names. In the end, shoppers purchase items they really don't need. Be prepared with the information you need before you visit the store, and don't fall for the retailer's pushy sales tactics. Ask other car owners about accessories they've purchased. Read industry magazines and research online. Shop around to compare features, quality and prices. Some smart comparative information today can save you a lot of money down the road.
Avoid the Add-Ons
Trying to force buyers to take additional accessories is one of the oldest sales and marketing tricks in the book. It's like being pressured to buy a belt when you pick up a new pair of pants. The same holds true in the car accessories market. Just because a retailer tells you that you really need a neon green GPS cover, it's not necessarily true. Ask a friend or trusted mechanic who is familiar with car accessories and get a reliable opinion on what you should -- and shouldn't -- buy.
Quality You Can Count On
As with any product, you need to know at least the basic details of the warranty before making the purchase. Understand the retailer's return or replacement policy in the event that the item doesn't work in your car, fails to meet your expectations, or malfunctions.
Look Before You Buy
You should have the opportunity to inspect the product before agreeing to purchase it. Of course, this is not an option with Internet purchases, so make sure you're dealing with a reputable online dealer. Many retail stores ask that you sign a receipt stating that the product is in good condition upon receipt, and doing so may mean waiving your rights to return the product if it is indeed damaged.
OEM Parts and Accessories
Opt for OEM or "Original Equipment Manufactured" car and truck accessories whenever possible. This usually ensures that the quality is first-rate and the warranty will provide purchase protection.
Car accessories not only make driving more convenient, they can also impact your safety while on the road. Being prudent in your choice of what to buy and where to shop can ultimately save your life, so don't make price your first priority. Safety concerns should always come first, so don't compromise quality just to get a good deal.
Remember to have fun shopping. If your search for driving accessories is giving you a big headache, maybe it is not worth it. Don't give in to pressure that says you have to accessorize; just do it because it is fun for you.
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Finally, good auto accessories don't need to be expensive. For a super last minute gift, consider a high quality fast drying towel. Get more tips and resources at our giant site on buying a used car tips and other topics.
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