Pimp Up Your Ride
Millennials will likely remember the iconic show on MTV, where crazy car modifications ranged from adding a chocolate fountain to a full CAT scan machine. And while there's nothing that outrageous or expensive on this list, we've compiled some fun and creative ways to upgrade your ride. Here are 20 cool ideas to add some pizzazz to your car.
1. Custom Paint Jobs
Don't like the color of your car? Maybe it's a hand-me-down from your parents, and it's just not your shade. Or maybe you just got tired of it and want to permanently change it up. A custom paint job will do just the trick and can even change the finish from glossy to matte.
2. Interior Car Lights
Add some LED lights to your car interior to turn it into a personal party bus. Not only are these relatively easy to install (and stick on pretty well), they can also match the rhythm of your music so you can boogie while you're stuck in traffic.
3. Headrest Cushions
Because no one wants to get whiplash, headrest cushions are a must. They'll give your neck and shoulders something soft and fluffy to lean on as you're driving. Plus, with so many options out there, you can get just about any design you want.
4. Seat Cushions
While you're shopping for headrest cushions, why not get ones for your seats as well? In fact, get all the cushions. We won't judge. These car seat cushions can make those longer drives more bearable by providing support to your lower back and bum.
5. Car Bumper Stickers
Car bumper stickers are a great way to showcase your personality—and to let other drivers know if you have a baby or a pet in the car. You can stick on anything from cartoon characters to custom messages and funny jokes. They'll surely catch people's attention or make drivers laugh when they're behind you.
6. Custom Wheels
There's nothing more fancy than a new paint job and a custom set of wheels. Whether you just want to change the rims or you want to tack some lights onto them, these decorations are bound to make your car stand out on the road.
7. Steering Wheel Covers
Steering wheel covers are another way to add comfort and style to your car. You can bedazzle it, add something foamy, or make a crochet one. Putting a cover can help prevent the leather from wearing down and can give your hands something to cushion against when driving.
8. Headlight Tinting
Car lights are too bright for you? Or maybe you just want to look more mysterious on the road? Though you'll still want to make sure you're not breaking any laws when tinting your headlights, it can still be a cool effect to apply to your car.
9. Car Wrap
If a new paint job is out of your budget or you're not sure you want to commit to a certain color, then car wraps might be the better choice. Not only are they cost-effective, but wrapping your car also allows you to choose different designs. And because they only last an average of five years, you can change it up again when you're ready.
10. Custom License Plates
Have you ever seen a cool or funny license plate and thought, "I want to do that, too"? Well, you can! Sure, these custom plates will cost you a few extra bucks, but they're great ways to add some pizzazz, personality, and humor. And don't stop there—you can even customize the frames.
11. Trash Can
Isn't it annoying when you're snacking in your car, and afterwards, you either have to stuff the wrapper in the cup holder or shove it in your pockets? Well, no more of that, we say. Get a trash can for your car! While you might have to empty these pretty often, it still beats holding onto your trash until you're out of your car.
12. Diffusers & Air Fresheners
After snacking in your car, you don't want that smell to linger—even if it smells tasty. Having air fresheners or diffusers in your car will help you get rid of any unwanted stenches. You can add compact ones that stick onto vents or stylish ones you can hang from the rearview mirror.
13. DIY In-Car Entertainment
If your car doesn't come with a built-in entertainment system in the back, why not make one? This is especially great for long family road trips where kids might get restless. While you can choose to buy a screen holder that attaches to the headrest, you can also DIY it with a Ziploc bag. Just punch some holes, slip your tablet in, and voila.
14. Seat Heaters
Sure, you have heat in the car. But sometimes it doesn't get warm for ages, meaning you're sitting there shivering, waiting for the heat to finally kick up. Seat heaters, on the other hand, can be easily plugged in and start up quickly so your lower back and legs stay nice and warm.
15. Custom Grilles
Customizing your car grilles is another fun way to show off your style and personality. You can add words, symbols, LED lights, patterns, and other designs to make your car stand out from the crowd.
16. Trunk Organizer
If you're someone who loves to stock up on groceries and household items to the point of cluttering your trunk, you might want to consider getting a trunk organizer. These will keep your things safely in place, help you declutter, and free up room for... well, more stuff.
17. Cordless Vacuum
Tired of dirt, lint, and food crumbs? These pesky things gather on your floor mats and car seats, which make for unpleasant experiences for you and your passengers. Instead of shelling out money to have your car professionally cleaned all the time, get a handheld cordless vacuum. You can easily remove debris the moment you see it.
18. Backseat Organizer
Backseat organizers are especially great when you have too many things stored in your backseat, or you have kids who love to bring all their toys with them. Since these hang directly behind the front seat, some can also be used as tablet holders. You can also put your water bottles and any other knickknacks in there.
19. Seat Belt Covers
For extra plushy comfort that will secure you in your seat and to prevent wear and tear of the seat belt, get seat belt covers. You can choose from an array of designs to match the aesthetic of your car and style, and they're great additions to protect kids in the back as well.
20. Dash-Mounted Coffee Maker
That's right, folks. For all you coffee lovers out there, you can make your morning cup of Joe on the road to work. You'll of course want to be careful using this to avoid scalding yourself or damaging your car, but it's a gadget that's sure to impress your passengers.
