Collaborative Post¦ In 2020, 1.63 million new cars were registered in the UK alone. Although this was a reduction compared to the numbers recorded in 2019 and 2018, it indicates the Brits’ love for new cars. However, not everyone can afford a new car after a few years of using their older vehicles. For this reason, people adopt different means to improve their old vehicles for a brand-new look. Although most of these upgrades can be expensive, affordable ones still give you the desired look. That said, here are cost-effective ways to upgrade your old car.
Clear up the headlights
Most cars have had headlights encased in plastic holders for decades. After three or more years, they begin to lose their shine and become dull. In some instances, the headlight casings contain moisture due to the heating and cooling processes within. All these signs of wear and tear impact your car’s overall appeal, making it appear older than it is. To resolve this problem, replace old headlamps with newer ones. Apart from adding an instant boost to your car’s appeal, you will benefit from enhanced illumination at night or in foggy weather.
Upgrade exterior parts
Having driven your car for a few years, you likely have a few scratches and dents on the exterior parts. Your wheel caps may also be looking too dull with a few chips or cracks on the peripheries. Additionally, your tyres look worn out, with the colour looking almost faded. Old car tyres tend to lose the solid dark colour new ones have, making them look even older.
For better results, invest in quality tyres that will last years and perform optimally. Sometimes, the temptation to buy cheap tyres is high, but experts recommend looking at the long-term benefits. Quality ones will save you from changing your tyres more often than you should. Moreover, good tyres enhance your safety on the road.
Leverage private number plate
You can tell the age of a car just by its number plate. Fortunately, that can be a thing of the past if you know what to do. Getting dateless and cheap private plates should be easy because many establishments offer these authorised services. You can also purchase these plates at low prices, unlike what you pay for customised number plates.
Work on the interior
The interior of your car is not only about the seats. The dashboard, floor mats, steering wheel, armrests, pockets, etc., contribute to the overall appeal of your old car. Naturally, with prolonged use, car seats lose their firmness and endure various degrees of deterioration. You have two options to explore depending on what you can afford. You can either reupholster your seat covers or replace them entirely. You can also ask a professional to advise the best solution for your dashboard. Sometimes, all you need is an intense polish to get rid of the marks on the dashboard.
Get a professional spray job done
It is usual for cars to lose their shine after prolonged usage. Moreover, years of jet wash and weather elements put a significant toll on your car’s original paint job. According to totallymotor.co.uk, over 70% of car owners resort to painting jobs as the immediate solution for a vehicle upgrade. However, be careful where you get this done, especially when changing the original colour. The last thing you want is to have the new paint chip and reveal the different colours underneath it. A professional spray job will prevent you from going for frequent touch-ups or extra coating.
Get a thorough car cleaning
Even after changing your car seats and giving the interior an excellent polishing, dirt will diminish the overall effect you want to create. But, did you know that your car can look good as new after giving it a thorough cleaning? The surprising part is it’s so easy to do at home, as long as you have the right cleaning tools. You’ll need the appropriate brush to clean the dry mud caught in your tyres and wheel caps. However, you may need professional help when you decide to wax your car to prevent damages and additional costs.
Indeed, you’ll not be wrong to describe these ways as rejuvenating hacks for your car. However, always be mindful of where you get these changes done for your vehicle. A professional will help save you money while delivering an efficient job. Hopefully, you’ll consider these tips as you prepare to upgrade your car.
Disclosure: This is a collaborative post.