Millions of auto accessories are offered today through a large number of online merchants or permanent retailers. With levels of quality differences that vary dramatically, finding what you really need can be difficult.
From electrical accessories to non-electrical essentials, here are some of the best accessories to have in your vehicle all year long.
electrical essentials
Most of the car accessories that come in handy are the electrical ones that can be purchased online. Using your vehicle’s 12V power source, here are some of the best accessories to have in your vehicle to be prepared at all times.
1. 12V Tire Inflator
Portable tire inflators are essential for anyone who owns a passenger vehicle, especially when the colder weather arrives. While most gas stations or rest areas often provide their customers with such services, it seems that when you need it most, it is inaccessible.
Most come with a small display or gauge to show tire pressure, and almost all come with a case to protect the device. Tire inflators like the Fanttik X8 Apex can save you a trip to a gas station and get you out of a bind when help seems so far away.
2. Portable jump pack
All vehicles contain a battery, either electric or gasoline. Although batteries are supposed to receive regular maintenance, they are often checked when they no longer work. Although this is not a permanent solution, the help of a portable jump pack will be able to get you to a nearby gas station.
They can even come in handy in colder temperatures when your car is hesitant to start, making them useful for those residing in a colder area. Portable jump packs differ from battery chargers, so make sure you know what you need to purchase for your application.
You can charge this device virtually anywhere, from your car’s 12V port to a wall outlet. They typically feature USB or USB-C ports, allowing the jump pack to double as a portable battery pack.
3. OBD-II Scanner
After 1999, all passenger vehicles were required to have OBD-II ports. This sped up the process of diagnosing your vehicle when something went wrong and is still true today. The check engine light illuminates when your vehicle’s ECU (Engine Control Unit) detects a problem and may even flash when something is seriously wrong.
OBD-II scanners can identify what code your ECU is triggering, taking the form of many sizes and different budgets. Smaller than a soda can, Wi-Fi OBD-II scanners are extremely helpful if your check engine light is flashing, saving you time and a trip to the mechanic.
4. Phone charger
Last but not least, a phone charger and cable are absolutely essential in this day and age. With the help of the emerging standard, USB-C allows you to charge your phone and transfer data almost 20 times faster than its traditional counterpart.
While you can choose from countless chargers on the market, here are some of the best USB-C car chargers available today.
non-electrical essentials
While these aren’t electronic accessories, here’s a friendly reminder about some items that should always be kept in a vehicle.
1. Spare tire
Over 200 million flat tires occur each year, making a part a must for any season or vehicle. While there are services to cover such inconveniences, they generally take up to 3 hours.
To get the most out of your spare wheel, you’ll need a way to remove the wheel, which brings us to our next essential.
2. Car jack
A car jack raises the car off the ground and can take many shapes and sizes. Those who are enrolled in roadside assistance programs will usually be taken care of from start to finish, but for those who are self prone, most vehicles come with scissor jacks that are more than effective for emergencies.
You can effectively change your flat tire anywhere using the included jack and tools!
Preparation is the key to success
As you can see, there are plenty of car essentials that you should have in your vehicle on a regular basis. Depending on your trip, some accessories may prove more crucial than others.
Still, with inclement weather and potholes seeming to appear exponentially, these accessories can be worth it for even the most experienced drivers.