Automotive technology is only getting more advanced, but you don’t have to shell out for a fresh release in order to experience the best of it. With so many aftermarket products available to bring new tech to your ride, you can have all the niceties of a modern model without the price tag. Check out this DIY guide for techy additions that upgrade your trim on your terms.
Safety
Head-up display
The first windshield HUD was released in 2004 by BMW. Since then, more luxury vehicles have taken a liking to the feature, but many cars still stick with the traditional navigation screen.
If you want one for yourself, consider the Yuguang 6″ HUD that shows speed, navigation, and more right on the windshield. With alarms for speed, voltage, and RPM, I’d argue it does more than your average HUD.
Blind-spot monitor
New vehicles love to boast blind-spot monitors, but you don’t need a fancy Honda Sensing® Suite to snag one. The BrandMotion Radar Blind Spot System is the first new tech to hit the aftermarket that features cross-traffic detection and a 40-foot range. It even minimizes false alerts by 95% in comparison with other aftermarket technology.
It does need to be professionally installed, but if DIY is a requirement, you can always go with the Greenyi Integrated LED Blind Spot System which plugs into your 12-volt cigarette lighter socket.
Air purifier
The FRiEQ is an ionic air purifier and freshener that you just need sitting shotgun. Plug it right into your 12-volt outlet and enjoy the effects of 4.8 million negative ions per cm³, all within the confines of your own car.
Entertainment
Phone-Compatible Stereo
Most cars from prior to 2014 don’t have a speaker that’s compatible with Apple CarPlay. If you have an older vehicle that isn’t compatible with your Apple or Android smartphone, don’t fret. You can always switch out your stereo for a setup that’s in sync — and the process is super easy.
Consider switching to stereos like the Pioneer AVH-W4400NEX or Sony XAVAX1000 to access smartphone compatibility.
GoPro
Slap a camera on your dash and have an in-house recording of every road trip to come. Best of all, it doubles as a dash cam, which helps prevent fraudulent insurance claims.
Consider the GoPro Hero8 Black, which features Hypersmooth 2.0 video stabilization and voice control. Alternatively, you could swing for the GoPro Max which has six-mic processing and on-camera horizon leveling.
Mobile hotspot
The Verizon 5G MiFi M1000 is a bit of a splurge, but it sure transforms that car of yours into a roaming entertainment center. Use your Wi-Fi to download podcasts, hop on client calls, or put on a show for your backseat drivers.
Style
LED headlight conversion kits
More and more vehicles are being produced with LED headlights. In 2019 alone, 86% of new models were equipped with the technology. You can have them on your old car, too, for a safer drive and crisper style.
When upgrading your headlights with LED conversion kits, keep a lookout for ones with CSP (chip scale package). They’re smaller, brighter, and more efficient.
Interior lighting kits
Yeah, the Mercedez-Benz C-Class may have ambient lighting in its cabin, but your old car can have a colorful display, too. Switch out your interior lighting setup with a more modern display that speaks your stylish language.
Pick & choose your favorite new tech aftermarket products
Your old car has a lot going for it (like that broken-in comfort and day-one reliability). With new tech from the aftermarket, your vehicle can be just as fun as it is practical. Whatever way you decide to augment your ride is up to you; just know that your options are endless, and your car is only as custom as you make it.