Choosing the Right Car Accessory in India: A Quick Guide

Key Highlights:

• OEM accessories, though relatively expensive, comply with the car’s existing warranty.
• Cheap electrical accessories and improper wiring pose several risks, including fire hazards.
• While choosing accessories, prioritise quality over pricing to avoid earlier replacements or faulty fitment.

Interior Accessories

Seat Covers

Seat covers protect the original upholstery from stains, dust and wear. Materials such as leather (mostly synthetic), fabric and suede are popular choices for seat covers. Leather seat covers give a premium look at a higher cost, while fabric covers are cheaper, though considerably less attractive.

Floor Mats

Floor mats help keep the interior clean and prevent dirt from spreading to the rest of the cabin. Rubber mats are ideal for rainy seasons and higher passenger counts. Carpet mats add a touch of style and comfort. Custom-fit mats ensure superior fitment and improve the interior aesthetics.

Steering Wheel Covers

Steering wheel covers improve grip and provide comfort during long drives. Options include leather, fabric and soft silicone. Some covers come with extra padding to reduce hand fatigue. They also help protect the steering wheel from wear and tear. In most cases, the standard leather-wrapped steering configuration returns the best feel.

Dashboard Accessories

The list includes sunshades, organisers and random decorative items. Sunshades prevent the dashboard from cracking due to sunlight. Organisers keep small items such as sunglasses, keys and cards in one place. Decorative items are strictly personal, but always choose accessories that do not affect other vital components or cause distraction.

Car Audio

Upgrading the car audio system can radically transform a music lover's driving experience. Almost all modern cars feature touchscreens, Bluetooth connectivity and smartphone integration. On the other hand, premium choices add multiple speakers, subwoofers and amplifiers to improve the overall sound quality. In fact, good audio systems have always been a marketing element in cars.

Ambient Lighting

Ambient lighting enhances a car’s interior mood. LED strips can be installed under the seats, footwells and doors. Though gimmicky, this accessory creates a unique travelling experience, making it one of the most desirable factory-fitted features in modern cars.

Organisers

Car organisers help keep the cabin neat. Trunk organisers, seat-back organisers and centre console organisers extract extra space for storing random essentials. They are particularly useful for families who travel frequently.

Phone Chargers and Tech Accessories

Phone holders, wireless chargers and Type-C ports are essential in today’s age. Enthusiasts who own older cars with primitive infotainment systems often consider these their top purchases among accessories. Some holders also double as mounts for navigation devices or even tablets.

Air Purifiers and Fresheners

Air purifiers are quite useful in Indian cities with high pollution levels. They not only improve air quality but also integrate fresheners to add a pleasant cabin environment.

Dashcams

Dashcams that feature both front and rear coverage are gaining popularity in India, owing to multiple cases of vandalism and theft. Certain variants include additional capabilities such as night vision, motion detection and GPS tracking.

Exterior Accessories

Alloy Wheels and Wheel Caps

Alloy wheels enhance the car’s appearance and performance. They are lighter than steel wheels and greatly improve handling (if chosen within the recommended specifications). Wheel caps, on the other hand, are budget-friendly options to give the car a fresh look without replacing the wheels.

Exterior Detailing and Functional Aesthetics

Exterior detailing kits usually include waxes & polishes, microfibre clothes, tyre cleaners, shampoos and brushes of varied bristles. Some accessories influence the look of the car while also being functional. Examples include mudflaps, roof rails, rain guards, etc.

Window Tints

Window tints reduce glare, protect from UV rays and improve privacy. They also help keep the cabin cooler in hot Indian weather. It is important to follow local regulations regarding the level of tint allowed.

Upgraded Lighting

Upgraded headlights and fog lamps improve visibility during night driving and challenging weather. In addition to providing better illumination, LED units are much more energy-efficient. However, excessive brightness may cause trouble to other road users or attract legal issues.

Car Wraps and Paint Protection

Car wraps allow a change of colour of a car without the need for repainting. In certain states, the RTO may need to be notified. Wraps also help shield the surface from scratches and fading. Paint protection films, though expensive, prove helpful in keeping the original finish intact, especially if the car spends most of its time in crowded cities or dusty regions.

Parking Sensors and Cameras

Parking sensors and rearview cameras are vital in urban environments. They reduce the risk of minor collisions in crowded Indian streets. Some systems also provide 360-degree views for easier manoeuvring. These accessories are lately becoming standard in budget cars as well.

Car Covers

Car covers protect the vehicle from dust, sunlight and rain. They are essential for cars parked outdoors, but buy only model-specific covers.

Tips for Choosing the Right Accessories

Indian roads showcase a unique set of driving conditions, ranging from heavy traffic to extreme weather. To make the driving experience safer, more convenient and enjoyable, opt for only model-specific accessories.

Here are some tips to consider:

• Ensure compatibility with the exact variant of the car.
• Prioritise quality over price to avoid frequent replacements or faulty fitment.
• Focus on safety and functionality, along with aesthetics.
• Read reviews and consult professionals before installation.
• Avoid accessories that obstruct visibility or driver controls.

OEM accessories, although usually expensive, comply with the car's existing warranty. Meanwhile, third-party accessories should be installed professionally if there’s a lot of wiring involved.

FAQs

1. Are car air purifiers beneficial in Indian cities?
Absolutely. With rising pollution levels, a good air purifier can help reduce dust, smoke, and allergens inside the cabin.

2. Can I install ambient lighting myself?
Yes, many plug-and-play LED strips are available. However, professional installation is better if you want a neat, safer and durable finish.

3. Are car body covers safe for daily use?
Yes, but choose a breathable, dustproof cover. Avoid cheap ones as they can trap moisture and damage the paint.

4. Is paint protection film (PPF) better than ceramic coating?
PPF offers superior scratch and stone chip resistance, while ceramic coating gives better shine and easier cleaning. Many owners use a combination of both.

5. Are car accessories legal in India?
Yes, most accessories like seat covers, mats, chargers, and organisers are legal. However, modifications that alter the vehicle’s structure, exhaust system or lighting beyond government standards are not allowed.