Friday, December 13, 2013

Last Minute Gifts: Why Not Hot Car Accessories

By Michael Trusthold


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.

The Global Positioning System (GPS) is one of the most impressive examples of modern mobile gadgetry. A GPS system allows users to view local maps and receive accurate directions. They are priceless for fast-moving professionals needing to navigate urban city streets, and wanderlust-stricken travelers love them, too.

For many hobbyists and professionals, cars and trucks have taken a U-turn from luxury to necessity, and manufacturers have been quick to meet the changing needs of drivers. A wide selection of standard equipment and aftermarket accessories is available to suit drivers of all types of cars. The market is so heavy with accessories that 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 which gizmos to avoid:

Research Your Needs

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.

Get a Second Opinion

Some retailers simply want the biggest possible profit, and may try to overwhelm you with their vast knowledge and brand name repertoire, only to sell you something you really don't need. Arm yourself with information before you visit the store, and don't fall for the occasional pushy sales tactics. Ask other car owners about the car accessories they've purchased, or read about them online and in industry magazines. Shop around in advance to compare prices. A little comparative information today can save you a lot of money down the road.

Buy Only What You Need

Would you like fries with that? Encouraging buyers to take additional accessories is one of the oldest sales and marketing tricks in the book. You've been pressured to buy a belt when you pick up a new pair of pants, and the same tactic is often used in the car accessories market. A retailer may tell you that you really need a neon green GPS cover, but of course it's not true. Ask you friends and speak with a trusted mechanic who is familiar with car accessories. Use these reliable opinions to decide what you should, and what you 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.

Take a Good Look

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.

First Quality

Whenever possible, opt for OEM Original Equipment Manufactured car and truck accessories. You can usually be certain that the quality is first-rate and the warranty will protect your purchase.

Driving can be more convenient and even safer with the right driving accessories. Be prudent when deciding what to buy, and where to shop. This is smart shopping and it can be safer in the long run. Safety concerns should always come first, and quality should not be compromised for the sake of 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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