Hot Car Accessories — and What to Avoid
Tuesday, October 30th, 2007It wasn’t so long ago that a car owner’s “must-have” list of hot car accessories included eight-track players and stick-on dash compasses. Those automotive dinosaurs have long since passed, but even if you love to drive your vintage vehicle, you don’t have to settle for outdated accessories. It’s easy to update any vehicle with modern driving accessories to satisfy your unique needs and desires.
The automobile has evolved from a simple means of transportation. Today, cars and trucks serve as mass transit systems for carpooling entire departments, recreational centers for road-weary children, and portable offices for mobile executives. With these changing times has come the demand for more gadgets and gizmos to ensure comfortable and productive travel: from coffee cup warmers and shiatsu seat covers, to DVD players and video game portals.
One of the best examples of modern accessorizing is the GPS or Global Positioning System, which allows users to view local maps and receive accurate directions. These gadgets are of particular value to fast-moving professionals trying to navigate urban city streets. And travelers love them, too.
Cars and trucks have taken the leap from luxury to necessity for many professionals and hobbyists, so manufacturers have worked hard to meet the changing needs of drivers. A large selection of accessories is available to suit drivers of all types of cars. The market has become flooded with accessories and it’s not always easy 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’ve decided on the right car accessories to meet your needs, it really pays to shop around. There is an ever-expanded market of automotive accessories to meet the huge demand. Check the selection and prices at several outlets, including specialty shops and smaller stores. Don’t be afraid to haggle for the best deal.
Seek Professional Advice
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.
Buy Only What You Need
One of the oldest marketing tricks in the book is called “up selling”. This tactic involves the sale of additional accessories to a buyer; for example, a matching belt with a pair of shoes. This same tactic is often used in the car accessories market. When you buy your new GPS unit, the retailer may try to convince you that you really do need a neon green GPS cover, but of course it’s not true. Use the opinions of friends and trusted mechanics to determine what you really need.
Warranty and Policies
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.
Inspect Before You Buy
Take advantage of any opportunity to inspect the product before agreeing to buy it. This is not an option with Internet purchases, of course, so be sure that you’re dealing with a reputable online dealer. Some retail stores will ask you to sign the receipt stating that the product is in good condition upon purchase, and doing so may result in the waiving of your right for return if the product is indeed damaged.
Brand Names
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, too, because if purchasing accessories for your car is giving you a big headache, maybe it is not worth it. Don’t succumb to pressure that says you have to accessorize — do it because it is fun for you.