How can I decorate my car?
If you have any inclination toward selling your car in the future, I'd say forget about car decorations. Rather go the manufacturer-approved accessories route to ensure that your car is attractive to potential buyers, instead of adding items that may cause faster depreciation.
When it comes to car decorations, less is more, but none is better. Whenever I see cars with roof aerial toppers, rear-window bumper stickers, headlight eyelashes, nodding dogs, furry dashboard dice and mud splatter decal kits, my eyes start to water. If you want to spruce up your ride, please steer clear of these.
If you absolutely MUST decorate your car, the odd racing stripe on the right car can sometimes add to a car's inherent character but don't go overboard. Yourmechanic.com shows you how to safely add this feature, but don't blame us if your DIY effort doesn't look as good as a professional's!
Don't dismiss boring, everyday items such as mudflaps either - they won't do much for your image, but what they will do is protect your car's paintwork, so it looks better for longer. If you feel you need something to really take your car's styling up a notch, a new set of wheels with stylish rims can make the world of a difference.
Different strokes for different folks
Keep in mind that beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so keep it simple and only add accessories that may actually be a strong selling point later on and add value. Always remember that even if you do add expensive accessories, it is unlikely to be reflected in your car's trade-in value later on. It is a known fact that sellers don't get the money back that they've spent on extras.
Here on AutoTrader, we've written countless articles on accessories for different cars, but here are a few of the most popular models in SA. Do you drive one of them? Take a look for inspiration.
1. 5 Polo Vivo accessories you didn't know you needed
2. Volkswagen Polo accessories you didn't know you needed
3. Top 5 Accessories for your new Toyota Urban Cruiser
4. 5 Suzuki Swift Sport Accessories you need right now
5. Top 5 extras for your 2021 Toyota Fortuner
Use our search engine under Car News and Advice to search for articles on accessories for your car. If you can't find it here, visit the manufacturer's website to see what they offer as aftermarket accessories. The last thing you want to do is to fit accessories that void your car warranty, that's why OEM-approved accessories are best. Always ask this question before you give the go-ahead or attempt to customise your car yourself.
