Buying a car is never cheap, and that’s usually only the beginning of the costs. From tires to oil changes and routine maintenance, owning a car can get expensive. Although you probably want to customize your car to fit your dream ride, there may not be much room left in your budget for upgrades. Fortunately, there are still many affordable tweaks you can make yourself without breaking the bank. Here are eight of our favorite budget-friendly ways to personalize a vehicle.
1. Under Car Lighting
If you’re going to a car show, LED strip lights under your car can really make your vehicle stand out, especially at night. Depending on how you want the lights mounted and powered, installation can be a somewhat involved project. However, this look can be achieved for a surprisingly affordable price if you’re willing to do it yourself. With kits ranging from $15 to $250, there’s an option for nearly any budget.
However, before you install under glow lights, make sure you research regulations in your area so you can stay in compliance. Many cities have rules about when and where you can use under glow lights and which colors they can be.
2. All-Weather Floor Mats
If your car didn’t come with rubber all-weather floor mats, upgrading may be a good move. Fabric mats that come standard with many cars can get dirty quickly, hurting the overall look of your car. While some name-brand mats can be quite expensive, you can find some great alternatives online. On the cheaper end, you can get one-size-fits-most mats starting at about $25 or $30. Mats made specifically for your car model are more expensive but may be worth the price for the superior fit and coverage.
3. Fender Flares
Changing up the look of your wheels can be pricey—new rims alone can cost a grand or two. Depending on what you’re looking to achieve, fender flares may be a great alternative. They allow you to install bigger wheels on your truck or SUV and improve the appearance of your ride. Some fender flares have special details like bolts or textures that can add visual appeal to your car.
You can paint your fender flares to match your vehicle’s body or get a black or chrome finish for added flair. They also serve the practical purpose of protecting your wheel wells from mud and road debris. One-size-fits-all fender flares start at around $40 and can be installed yourself, making this a budget-friendly way to customize your car.
4. Phone Mount
If your car does not support Apple Car Play or Android Auto, finding a good phone mount is important. A quality phone mount will allow you to safely and effectively control your maps and music while you drive. A number of different styles are available, including mounts that attach to the air vent, window, dashboard, or cupholder. Most good phone holders start between $15 to $20, which is a deal that simply can’t be passed up.
5. Backup Camera
A lot of cars being produced today still lack a backup camera, which is a shame. Backup cameras can improve your visibility and help eliminate blind spots when you’re backing up. With that being said, you should never rely solely on your backup camera’s view since they can malfunction. So don’t forget to check your mirrors too.
While installing a backup cam can be an involved project if you need to run wires, there are wireless options available. Most units start at about $40 and go up considerably based on their features, such as video quality and night vision capabilities.
6. Organization
Keeping a car organized is always a challenge and is made even harder if you have kids. Finding effective storage solutions is key to maintaining a clean and tidy vehicle. There are many after-market options available, such as trunk or glove compartment shelving, storage baskets, trash cans that fit in small areas, and backseat organizers. You can even get a storage unit that fits on your roof if you need extra space. Organization options can cost as little as $20 and go up from there based on style and function, making this an affordable way to customize your car.
7. Height adjustment
Some people want to lift their cars and others would like to lower them. Both changes involve altering the suspension, which can be costly. But what if I told you that lowering your car can be accomplished for as little as $100? Replacing your suspension springs with lowering springs can reduce your overall height by one to three inches. While you may be doing it for aesthetic reasons, lowering your car also improves handling and fuel economy as an added bonus.
8. Headlights
One of the best things you can upgrade on your car to improve safety is the headlights. After-market headlights can significantly improve nighttime road visibility. Since headlight installation is very straightforward, this is a project anyone can take on regardless of skill level. Car headlights usually come with LED, halogen, xenon, or laser bulbs. While some options like laser tend to be expensive, you can regularly find headlight sets starting at about $20 if you aren’t picky about the type of bulb.
Options for every budget
Whether you’re looking to change the look of your car or the way it performs, it’s possible to do it on a budget. From lowering your car to organizing the interior, there are projects you can tackle no matter your skill level or budget. With a little elbow grease, creativity, and cash, you can personalize your car without overspending. Hopefully, our tips will help you upgrade your vehicle into your dream ride.