Accessories galore to help you `pimp your ride'

SUPPLIED PHOTO

The Motorola T505 MOTOROKR Bluetooth device clips onto a car's visor.

Ron Loveys

TADA PRESIDENT

If you haven't purchased a new vehicle for five or more years, you might be surprised at the number of standard features on many makes and models today.

Passenger and curtain air bags, ABS braking systems, air conditioning, power door locks and windows, and StabilTrack control systems are just some of the many accessories that were once "add-on" purchases but are now included in the price of new vehicles.

But even with this lengthy list of standard features available today, buyers often look beyond them to make their driving experience more comfortable and thrilling.

One of today's most popular accessory items is the Bluetooth hands-free device. This item has become a hot seller – especially in Ontario, where the hands-free law that kicked in last October prohibits motorists from talking, texting, dialling or emailing while holding a hand-held device.

Bluetooth cellphone headsets and hands-free kits allow drivers to connect with their cellphone, PDA or other wireless devices.

Here's a word of caution for drivers who are still talking and texting without the aid of a hands-free device: Stop breaking the law, or invest in hands-free technology. Far too many drivers are still putting themselves and others at risk.

Another popular accessory is a USB port, which allows MP3 players such as iPods, and flash drives to be easily connected. Your digital music and audio library can be enjoyed while you drive.

Some manufacturers now include Bluetooth technology, Microsoft's voice-activated SYNC entertainment system, GPS systems and real-time, location-based traffic monitoring as standard equipment on new vehicles.

Any accessory item you choose will ultimately depend on your driving habits and lifestyle. For instance, child booster seats, cargo area management systems and built-in DVD players are extremely popular with families.

I know many customers who say that installing a DVD player was the best accessory investment they ever made. Long car rides with their children are now quieter, less quarrelsome and more relaxing for everyone.

If you participate in outdoor activities, plenty of accessories are available to help organize and transport your gear. Ski and snowboard attachments, bicycle racks, roof racks and trailers can be easily installed, either before or after you purchase a vehicle.

HID (high-intensity discharge), or xenon, headlamps are an added safety feature that are becoming popular with motorists. HID technology provides an estimated three times the brightness of regular halogen headlamps.

For drivers of pickup trucks and SUVs, there's no shortage of accessories to "pimp your ride." Bug shields, camper tops, running boards, tonneau covers and truck bed tents are among the many items available from a new-car dealership. Plus, accessory items can be included as part of the low-interest financing of a vehicle.

To research what's available, visit your local dealership's website. You'll find photos, descriptions and pricing for a host of add-on accessories. Some accessory pages on dealership websites are quite elaborate and even allow visitors to purchase items online.

While searching for accessories online, you might find items designed to customize your vehicle, too – items such as custom wheel packages, spoiler kits, tinted windows, chrome grilles, hood protectors and heated seats.

What's one of the most popular accessory items among all makes and models? Believe it or not, it's still those much-maligned floor mats. Summer, winter and all-season floor mats are still as popular as ever.

I guess some accessories never go out of fashion.

This column represents the views of TADA. Email president@tada.ca or visit tada.ca.

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