The driving experience is better with the right car gadgets and kit. Even the smallest additions can make your time behind the wheel smoother, safer and more enjoyable. Luckily, there are plenty of gadgets that can lend a hand – consider some of these.
Smart dash cams
This piece of tech is designed to capture everything happening on the road, in front of and even behind you. In the unfortunate event of an accident, the footage can be invaluable for insurance claims or proving your side of the story. As with multi car insurance, you can use them for all the vehicles in your household.
Some models come with built-in GPS and Wi-Fi features, meaning you can easily transfer videos to your phone or cloud storage for easy access. It’s one of those gadgets that offers both peace of mind and practicality.
Diagnostic scanners
It’s easy to panic when a warning light pops up on your dashboard, but a diagnostic scanner can take much of the guesswork out of the equation.
Gadgets like the Carly app and scanner can plug into your car’s OBD-II port, which is typically located beneath the steering wheel. Once connected, the scanner reads any error codes generated by the vehicle’s computer system, which could point to anything from a minor issue to something more serious.
Understanding these codes allows you to make informed decisions, whether you’re taking the car to a mechanic or tackling a simple fix yourself. It could save you both time and money by preventing unnecessary repairs or breakdowns.
Car vacuum cleaner
Keeping your car tidy often feels like a chore, but it can make a noticeable difference to your overall driving experience. A portable car vacuum cleaner is compact and powerful enough to clean up dirt, crumbs and pet hair that inevitably accumulate over time. It’s especially useful for hard-to-reach areas like under seats and between the console.
Regular cleaning not only improves the look and feel of your vehicle but also maintains the interior’s condition, preventing a build-up of dust and allergens that could affect your health and comfort. Vacuuming with a little handheld machine is also just fun!
USB car chargers
If you’re reliant on your phone for navigation and entertainment on the road, it’s easy to drain your battery in the car. A USB charger is simple yet effective, helping you stay connected by providing a reliable charging solution on the go. Many models now feature fast-charging ports, making sure your devices stay powered up, even on short trips.
Whether you’re heading on a long road trip or just popping out for errands, a USB charger keeps your phone ready for anything. In some vehicles, you can even charge multiple devices simultaneously, making it an essential tool for families or commuters.
Phone mounts
Far from high-tech, but essential for many older cars. A phone mount keeps your device securely in place, giving you easy access to apps, maps and music without taking your eyes off the road. Whether you prefer a dashboard, vent or windscreen mount, there are options to suit different driving habits and cars.
Mounting your phone helps you follow GPS directions safely and access features like hands-free calls, without breaking the law or risking your safety. It could be the simple investment that makes driving easier and more convenient.
