According to a survey in the New York Post, the average American spends nineteen days a year stuck in traffic. Many newer cars are equipped with luxury amenities, but if you’re like us, you prefer an old car that has more charisma than comfort. Let’s go over ten ways that you can upgrade your driving experience no matter how clunky your junker.
IMAGE: PEXELS
Get Aligned
There’s nothing worse than a long drive in a car that makes you feel every crack in the asphalt. If it’s jerking or twerking, it’s a bad sign. Misalignment may cause the vehicle to pull in one direction or vibrate strangely. An easy fix for the shakes is to get aligned.
Chances are, if you have an older vehicle, you won’t be able to get a wheel alignment that relies on the modern computerized system. You’ll want to make sure you go to a reliable technician who’ll spend time getting it just right.
The process requires a bit more head-scratching for beaters, but tire alignments allow for safer and more comfortable driving. It’s standard maintenance that will help your tires perform correctly and last longer.
Insulate
Fitting insulation can make any car feel warm and cozy. Modern automobiles already have a lot of padding in them to keep out the road noise, but many old vehicles don’t. There are plenty of options available for car owners who want to block out cold air and sound.
You can use thermal insulation-type products to cover the firewall, exhaust, and transmission, or on the roof to keep the sun’s heat at bay. Most of the material that you can purchase is self-adhesive and can be applied by almost anyone.
Bright Lights
Most cars being built today have High-Intensity Discharge lights. Luckily, you can get these installed in an old vehicle. HID lights are five times more luminous than standard bulbs, and they emit a clean white light. If your tail lights are dwindling, you can replace them too! LED bulbs are affordable and offer a safer, brighter light.
Clean Air
Make sure that your car’s air filters are clean. These powerhouses keep all sorts of debris from you while you’re driving, including dust, pollen, and smog. Keep them clean. You’ll know it’s time for a filter cleanse if you start noticing unpleasant odors coming from the vents or if you hear any excess noise coming from the fan. All you’ll need is a damp cloth to tackle this job.
Diffuse Essential Oil
Essential oils are magic. Not only do they make for a much sweeter and cleaner smelling car, but they can help keep you alert! Oils that boost cognitive alertness include cinnamon, peppermint, rosemary, and any citrus.
Lumbar Support
If you spend all day sitting, and then go to your car just to sit some more, you’ll want to make sure that you have the proper lumbar support. Unfortunately, not all vehicles come with the best, which may result in restlessness while driving and a sore back. A memory foam Orthopedic seat will give you support and relief for many everyday aches and pains. These pillows provide just enough cushion.
Steer Clear
A memory foam steering wheel cover promotes a comfortable grip as you drive. A nice one can make all of the difference, especially in an old car with a hard wheel. Invest in a decent cover that’s cold, heat, and water-resistant.
Keep An Airbed Handy
Are you someone who loves the outdoors and the open road? If so, your car is a second home. Keep a handy airbed in the back seat for long trips to the beach or the mountains. This way, if you have multiple pit-stops, you can take a quick snooze and restore your energy. Airbeds can be inflated wherever you are and are nice and compact. You never know when you might want a quick nap.
Add Some Personal Touches
Some people see their car as a way to get from point A to point B; for others, it’s a sacred space. We spend so much time in our cars, why not make them our own? How you customize your vehicle depends on the kind of person that you are.
Some drivers go with a subtle personalized license plate with DVLA registrations or cover their bumper in stickers. Minimalists may prefer to go for some interior alterations such as sleek seat covers. From budget trinkets to luxury features, there’s a vast world of options for those seeking accessories to enhance their driving experience.
Get A Grip
Handling your phone while driving is dangerous and wrong, but often we find ourselves needing our GPS to help us get around. A grip strip for your phone is essential for any driver. Magnetic grips are impressively strong and will keep a firm hold on your phone, no matter how bumpy the ride gets. You can also easily access your screen if you need to answer a call without having to reach for your phone or lose sight of the road.
Keep On Truckin’ On
If we’re going to spend so much of our lives inside of a car, shouldn’t it be comfortable? Your trusty mode of transportation doesn’t have to be brand new to be cozy. Use some of our tips to give your vehicle a makeover and make it your own.
If you are interested in even more lifestyle-related articles and information from us here at Bit Rebels, then we have a lot to choose from.
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