Years ago, cars were simple machines that got you from point A to point B faster. Now, convenience, style, and even comfort aren’t the only things that matter to consumers. While these things still matter, another aspect that many people look at these days is how technologically capable a car is. Some vehicles possess technology that allows keyless entry, Bluetooth connectivity, or even a digital dashboard that allows you to use the apps on your phone hands-free.
However, not everyone’s lining up for the newest smart car. Studies show that the average lifespan of a car is almost 12 years, and with the pandemic still making waves, it isn’t a surprise that the amount of people purchasing cars is decreasing. Fortunately, transforming your old ride into a smart car is easier than you think. Here are a few tech upgrades to help you make your car smart and feel new.
Cool Down or Warm Up Your Car with a Remote Car Starter
Remote car starters or remote-start kits are a great addition to your car, especially during the hotter and colder months. With a press of a button, you can start your car without having to be inside. This is very useful for cold mornings, where you would usually have to wait for the heater to kick in before feeling any warmth. The same goes for summer days- you no longer have to air out your car and wait a few minutes for the A/C to take effect while the cold air cools down your leather seats. With the press of a button, you can start your car from any nearby place whenever you need to.
Some remote-start kits can even connect synchronise with your smartphone, making it more efficient than carrying around an extra remote.
Install a Dash Cam to Protect Yourself and Your Car
Dash cams have become a common addition to cars in recent years. Most people use them as a precautionary measure if they get into an accident, as dash cams serve as strong and efficient evidence to help figure out who is at fault and who between the two parties is responsible for paying damages. However, most dash cams these days have other features that can encourage safer driving, like voice control options, alerts that let you know when you’re going too fast, and even a montage option that speeds up your recording so you can share your trips with others.
In some cases, dash cams can even reduce your insurance premiums, as some insurance companies acknowledge its preventative nature.
Access Your Phone from a Digital Dashboard
What used to be exclusive for luxury cars is becoming a commonplace gadget, even for affordable cars. Digital dashboards might be one of the most efficient gadgets you can get for your car, allowing you to use your phone’s important features without endangering yourself and others. You can stream music, use GPS and online maps, send messages, and even take calls as you do with your phone.
If you find yourself reaching for your phone often to respond to messages or change the song that’s playing, you may want to consider getting a digital dashboard and installing Apple Carplay or Android Auto for more efficient, enjoyable, and safe journeys.
Never Lose Your Keys with a Key Tracker
Losing car keys happens to everyone, and it isn’t a fun experience, especially if you’re late for work or an event. Not only does it add stress to your day, but it wastes precious time you could have used to do something else. Fortunately, there are various battery-operated key trackers that you can attach to anything you don’t want to lose. These trackers ring when activated so you can easily find what you’re looking for.
Charge Your Phone While You’re on the Go
It can be a hassle to get your cable out and plug it into the right place when you’re on the road, and this can be especially difficult at night. The solution to this is by adding a car mount that acts as a wireless charging dock for your phone. This way, you can charge your phone any time you like without worrying about it sliding off the dashboard or bouncing off the cup holder.
Use Bluetooth Receivers to Play Music from Your Phone
If you want to take calls and listen to music without installing a digital dashboard, Bluetooth receivers may be for you. They’re cost-efficient, user-friendly, and do their job. There are three different types of Bluetooth receivers that you can add to your car depending on your car’s specifications: AUX-in, FM transmitter, and visor types. This is extremely useful for people who have phones without headphone jacks and want a fuss-free audio experience.
While adding these gadgets to your car won’t necessarily make it stand on par with newly-released smart vehicles, you’re likely to have a safer and more seamless driving experience. And the best part about it? You don’t have to spend anywhere near the price of a new car to get any, or even all, of these gadgets.
