11 Car Upgrades You Don’t Really Need but Are Fun to Have
Upgrading your car doesn't always have to be about performance or functionality. Sometimes, the best upgrades are the ones that make your car more enjoyable to live with or add a little personal touch.
When I added a custom shift knob to my car, it didn't turn my daily driver into a Rolls-Royce, but it made every drive feel more premium. Small modifications like these may not make your car faster or more valuable, but they'll certainly make it more “yours.”
From aesthetic enhancements to practical add-ons, we've come up with a list of car upgrades you absolutely don't need but probably want anyway. Consider this your permission to indulge in some fun car upgrades.
Custom Shift Knob
I've gone through more shift knobs than I care to admit. Whether it's weighted stainless steel pieces or exotic wood, each knob offers a distinct feel.
While a stock knob works just fine, nothing quite beats the satisfaction of a perfectly weighted shifter that fits your grip just right. Plus, there's something special about reaching for a personal touch point whenever you change gears.
LED Interior Lighting
In the early 2000s, the Underglow was the hottest mod around. These days, interior LED lighting has taken its spot. Modern LED kits give your cabin some ambiance without the rolling disco ball feel.
Some kits sync with door openings, subtle yet functional when hunting for dropped phones at night. Quality lighting can transform your cabin from basic to premium. Just avoid the temptation of going full Fast & Furious with the lights.
Racing-Style Pedal Covers
We all know that aluminum pedal covers with rubber grips do not make your car go any faster. Still, they add some motorsport flair to your footwork.
A quality set from OMP or Sparco can transform your car's pedal box from boring to GT-looking. Always make sure to install them properly, and your feet will thank you during those heel-toe downshifts.
Aftermarket Steering Wheel
Your steering wheel is your first connection to your car, and swapping in an aftermarket unit is pure luxury. A well-crafted Nardi or Momo wheel feels glorious in your hands, and that smaller diameter makes your car feel more responsive (even if it's just psychological).
It's important to know that you'll likely lose your airbag with an aftermarket steering wheel. Adapting to a new wheel takes some time. But every time you grab that wheel, you'll feel more connected to your car.
Wireless Charging Pad Station
You might not want to hear it, but wireless charging is a modern luxury that sounds more impressive than it really is. Dropping your smartphone on a charging pad feels decidedly premium, but it's essentially the same as using a cable, just slower and more expensive.
That said, there's something satisfying about having a dedicated spot to juice up your phone. However, that $30 Amazon special will not offer Tesla-level integration.
Custom License Plate Frame
If you're looking to add some personality to your ride, a well-chosen custom frame might be just what you need. Whether you choose a minimalist brushed aluminum number or something with a bit more sass, it's up to you to decide what best reflects your personality.
What's more? Custom license plate frames are budget-friendly and easy to install.
Whatever you do, skip the cringeworthy “BEEMER” or “Paid for” frames. Remember that you'll have to live with whatever frames you choose.
Performance Sound Enhancers
Performance sound enhancers can be exciting or controversial. From throttle response moderators to electronic sound generators, these gadgets promise to make your four-banger sound like a V8.
Do they actually improve performance? Not a chance. But hearing a more aggressive engine note feels just good, even if it's artificially enhanced.
Fair warning: the local car meet crowd will not be impressed when they find out it's not a real exhaust mod.
Blind Spot Mirrors
These little round lifesavers will not win any beauty contests, but they're surprisingly addictive once you install them. For around ten bucks, you get an expanded field of view that makes lane changes less daunting.
One would argue that blind spot mirrors are unnecessary with modern blind spot monitoring systems. But they give off that old-school feel and can work even when your car is powered off — try that with your fancy sensors.
Dash Cam System
These days, almost everyone has a dash cam. They are like GoPros for your car, filming everything from flying stones to crazy drivers.
You might not need one for your daily commute, but having a record of that epic road trip brings a sense of satisfaction. Moreover, your dash cam footage can be helpful with rogue cops, carjackers, and false claims.
Remote Start System
This is peak lazy luxury, and I'm here for it. You don't need to leave your cozy bed on a cold morning to fire up your car, and you can cool it down from your office on scorching afternoons.
Nothing beats the feeling of living in the future you get whenever you press your buttons. The real entertainment is watching pedestrians stare in frustration when your empty car roars to life.
Custom Badges/Emblems
I'll be the first to admit it: custom badges serve no real purpose, but there's something undeniably appealing about them. Whether it's a Batman emblem or a witty phrase, custom badges allow you to show personality without breaking the bank.
Badges are a great entry point if you're starting your customization journey. You can easily decide whether car modding is your thing without spending hundreds of dollars. They are also great conversation starters; you never know who's looking.
