10Best.Guide

Automotive Exterior Accessories

Top Picks

Last Updated: April, 2023
Pros
  • Sturdy frame
  • Cute and sparkly
  • Easy to install
  • Comes with screw covers
  • Nice packaging
Cons
  • Covers county and expiration date of tag
  • Screw covers may not fit all screws
Bottom Line
This license plate frame is a cute and sparkly option that is easy to install and comes with screw covers. However, it may cover important information on the tag and the screw covers may not fit all screws.
Pros
  • Easy to install
  • Minimalist design
  • Silicone material protects paint
  • Fits license plate well
  • Covers up dealership screw holes
Cons
  • Lips split easily
  • Not very sturdy
Bottom Line
These silicone license plate frames are a great option for those looking for a minimalist design and paint protection. However, they may not be the most durable and may not fit all license plates perfectly.
Pros
  • Good quality for the price
  • Looks exactly like the picture
  • Heavy and well-made
  • Funny addition to your vehicle
  • Nice metal material
Cons
  • Adhesive is not good
  • Too small for some buyers
Bottom Line
This emblem is a good quality, heavy, and well-made product that is perfect for adding a funny touch to your vehicle. However, the adhesive tape is not good and the emblem may be too small for some buyers.
Pros
  • Easy to install
  • Inexpensive
  • Fits standard 6x12 license plates
  • Doubles as an anti-theft device
  • Comes in a two-pack
Cons
  • May get you ticketed for obscuring the visibility of the license plate
  • May require longer screws to work
Bottom Line
These license plate covers are an inexpensive and easy way to give your car a blacked-out look, but be aware of the potential legal issues and the need for additional hardware.
Pros
  • Fun and humorous sticker
  • Good quality and nicely cut
  • Quick delivery
  • Cute and subtle design
  • Held up flawlessly after outdoor exposure
Cons
  • Difficult to apply and get all the pieces to stick
  • Sticker ripped in places
Bottom Line
This gas gauge sticker is a fun and cute addition to any car, but be prepared for a bit of a hassle during application.

The Ultimate Guide to Automotive Exterior Accessories: Types, Features, and Prices

Overview

Adding exterior accessories to your car can enhance its appearance, improve its performance, and protect it from the elements. From body kits and spoilers to rims and tires, there are countless options to choose from. But with so many choices available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That's why we've created this comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision when purchasing automotive exterior accessories.

Types

1. Body Kits: Body kits are sets of exterior modifications that can include front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and spoilers. They can give your car a sportier or more aggressive look.

2. Spoilers: Spoilers are designed to reduce drag and improve aerodynamics. They come in various shapes and sizes and can be made from materials like fiberglass or carbon fiber.

3. Rims: Rims can improve the appearance of your car and affect its performance. They come in different sizes, styles, and materials.

4. Tires: Tires are an essential part of your car's exterior. They can affect your car's handling, fuel efficiency, and safety.

5. Lights: Lights can enhance your car's appearance and visibility. They come in different colors, styles, and functions.

6. Covers: Covers can protect your car from the elements and keep it looking like new. They come in different materials and sizes.

7. Bras: Bras can protect your car's front end from rocks, debris, and bugs. They come in different materials and styles.

8. Mud Flaps: Mud flaps can protect your car's paint and body from mud, dirt, and debris. They come in different materials and sizes.

9. Sun Shades: Sun shades can protect your car's interior from UV rays and keep it cool. They come in different sizes and materials.

10. Window Tinting: Window tinting can enhance your car's appearance and reduce heat and glare. It comes in different shades and materials.

Key Considerations

1. Compatibility: Make sure the accessories you choose are compatible with your car's make and model.

2. Quality: Choose high-quality accessories that are durable and reliable.

3. Style: Choose accessories that match your car's style and personality.

4. Functionality: Choose accessories that serve a specific purpose, such as improving performance or protecting your car.

5. Legal Requirements: Check local laws and regulations to ensure that the accessories you choose are legal.

Features

1. Material: Accessories can be made from various materials, such as fiberglass, carbon fiber, aluminum, or steel.

2. Design: Accessories come in different designs, shapes, and sizes.

3. Functionality: Accessories can serve different functions, such as improving performance, enhancing appearance, or protecting your car.

4. Compatibility: Accessories should be compatible with your car's make and model.

5. Installation: Some accessories require professional installation, while others can be installed by the owner.

Prices

Prices for automotive exterior accessories can vary greatly depending on the type, material, and brand. Body kits and spoilers can cost anywhere from $500 to $5,000 or more. Rims and tires can cost anywhere from $100 to $2,000 or more. Lights, covers, bras, mud flaps, sun shades, and window tinting can cost anywhere from $10 to $500 or more.

Tips

1. Do your research: Research different types of accessories and brands to find the best options for your car.

2. Set a budget: Determine how much you're willing to spend before making a purchase.

3. Consider professional installation: Some accessories require professional installation to ensure proper fit and function.

4. Read reviews: Read reviews from other customers to get an idea of the quality and performance of the accessories you're considering.

5. Check warranties: Check the warranty information for the accessories you're considering to ensure they're covered in case of defects or damage.

FAQs

Q: Are automotive exterior accessories easy to install?

A: Some accessories are easy to install and can be done by the owner, while others require professional installation.

Q: Will adding exterior accessories affect my car's performance?

A: Adding certain accessories, such as body kits and spoilers, can affect your car's performance. Make sure to research the effects of the accessories you're considering.

Q: Are there any legal requirements for adding exterior accessories to my car?

A: Check local laws and regulations to ensure that the accessories you choose are legal.

Q: How do I choose the right size and style of accessories for my car?

A: Consider your car's make and model, as well as your personal style and preferences, when choosing the size and style of accessories.

Q: What materials are automotive exterior accessories made from?

A: Accessories can be made from various materials, such as fiberglass, carbon fiber, aluminum, or steel.

Conclusion:

Adding automotive exterior accessories to your car can be a great way to enhance its appearance, improve its performance, and protect it from the elements. By considering the different types, key considerations, features, prices, and tips outlined in this guide, you can make an informed decision when purchasing accessories for your car.

Runner-Ups

Pros
  • Comes in a package of 2
  • USA flag style
  • Good price
  • Nice colors and pattern
  • Quality product at a fair price
Cons
  • May not be legal in some states
  • Screws not included
Bottom Line
This license plate cover is a good value for the price, but buyers should do their research to ensure it is legal in their state. The product has a nice finish and comes in a package of 2, but some customers have reported issues with sizing, design, and missing hardware.
Pros
  • Provides great coverage
  • Fits perfectly to existing mirrors
  • Holds up well in different weather conditions
  • Best blind spot mirrors on the market
  • Easy to install
Cons
  • Round or oval mirrors might work better for seeing parking lines
  • Need to plan better for replacement
Bottom Line
These blind spot mirrors are a great investment for anyone who wants to eliminate blind spots and gain a wider view of their surroundings while driving. They are easy to install, hold up well in different weather conditions, and provide clear and larger images. However, buyers should consider the size and shape of the mirrors and plan for replacement accordingly.
Pros
  • Easy to install
  • Looks nice
  • Protects mirrors
  • Good fit
  • Adds a little touch to the look
Cons
  • May not fit all car models
  • May come detached in hot weather
Bottom Line
This product is easy to install, looks nice, and protects mirrors. However, it may not fit all car models, may come detached in hot weather, and the adhesive may not be strong enough.
Pros
  • Correct size for some vehicles
  • Quality rubber material
  • Good adhesive
  • Reasonably thick and pliable
Cons
  • Folded instead of rolled, causing creases and gaps
  • Adhesive not continuous, causing spaces between sticky parts
Bottom Line
This rubber bumper protector is a good quality product with strong adhesive, but it is often folded instead of rolled, causing creases and gaps. It may not fit some vehicles without trimming, and some parts may not be sticky at all.
Pros
  • Easy to install
  • Good quality material
  • Provides protection against scratches
  • Looks good
  • Great value
Cons
  • Difficult to apply
  • Flimsy
Bottom Line
This product is a good value for those looking for protection against scratches and a sleek look for their car. However, it may be difficult to apply and has issues with sizing and adhesion.
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