7 Must-Have Add-Ons When Buying Your First Car

Buying your first car is a stressful process. You have to consider the price, insurance ramifications, and what features you want your car to have. Some buyers even feel as though certain dealers trick them into purchasing features they don't need.

As a first-time buyer, you might not know exactly what your car needs. Fortunately, you can always add after-market features to any car no matter where you buy it. 

Ignore the salesman's pitch and read on to learn seven add-ons your new car needs.

1. Anti-Theft Devices

Most cars already come with some form of alarm system to ward off potential car thieves. However, stock alarm systems might not be enough. This is especially true if your car is actually stolen.

You also may not be able to rely on your car insurance to cover the theft of your car. You'll need to pay extra for comprehensive insurance coverage if you want the insurance company to foot the bill for a replacement.

There are plenty of anti-theft add-ons that either make life hard for a thief or help you recover your car. GPS trackers, wheel locks, and brake locks are all good and relatively inexpensive theft prevention systems.

Combine these features with a professionally-installed aftermarket security system from a trusted name like Viper. Nothing is more important than peace of mind, and these systems will provide that.

2. Paint Protection Film

You're likely investing a considerable amount of money into purchasing your first car, so you'll want to keep it looking good for as long as possible. Paint protection film (PPF) does an incredible job preserving your car's paint.

PPF, also known as a clear bra, is a polyurethane layer that's applied to the front end of your vehicle. It protects your paint job from damage due to road debris like rocks and sticks and UV damage from the sun. 

It's also clear, so it won't change the appearance of your new car. Warm water or ambient heat can even lend "self-healing" properties to PPF. Minor scratches and dings will simply disappear.

You'll want to have your PPF applied by a professional auto detailer. If you opt to install it on your own, the clear bra won't properly adhere to your vehicle.

3. Rear Backing Camera

Driving in reverse is responsible for a staggering 15,000 injuries in America every year. Installing a backup camera is an inexpensive way to prevent these accidents.

Many modern cars have an infotainment screen, and a backup camera seamlessly integrates with one.

As with most add-ons, you should have the work performed by a professional. Your infotainment screen is a crucial component of your car, and you risk damaging it if you try to alter your car's electrical system.

If your car is a little older and doesn't have such a screen, installing a camera will be a bit more costly. It will, however, be worth it if the camera prevents just one accident.

4. Remote Start

Waiting for your car to warm up in the winter can feel like it takes an eternity. In some colder climates, this feature is absolutely necessary.

Instead of shivering in the driver's seat while your engine gets warm enough to drive, install a remote start system and activate your engine with a press of a button. Your car will warm up without you needing to venture out into the cold.

After-market remote start has been around for decades, so virtually every car on the road today can support it in some capacity. 

5. Window Tints

Few things can change the appearance of a car like window tints. They can turn an unassuming sedan into a sleek ride.

This gives some people the impression that tints are only for aesthetics, but they actually have several practical benefits. They can prevent sun damage on your car's interior and filter out cancer-causing UV rays.

Like PPF, you can find DIY window tint options, but it's best to visit a detailer. Low-quality and self-applied tints can develop unsightly air bubbles and pull away from the window.

Be aware that various states have laws governing how dark your window tint can be. Failure to comply with those laws could earn you a ticket.

6. Upgraded Sound System

Your first car is something to celebrate, and the stock sound system just won't cut it. Adding high-fidelity speakers and a subwoofer for panel-shaking bass is one of the first mods many people look to make to their new car.

If you buy an older used car, you may also need to upgrade the stereo system to have access to modern amenities like Bluetooth and navigation. You can find stereo systems and speakers from all sorts of reputable dealers without breaking the bank.

7. Blind Spot Mirrors

Blind spot mirrors alert you when someone is attempting to pass you in a position you can't see with your side-view or rear-view mirrors.

These convex mirrors will help you avoid accidents. They're inexpensive and attach directly to your existing side-view mirror.

Mirrors like these are perfect for newer drivers. Checking blind spots is a habit that takes time to develop, and many people are forced to learn their lesson the hard way.

If you want a high-tech blind spot monitoring system, you'll have to shell out a bit more money. However, like a backup camera, it'll pay for itself if it prevents even one accident. This is another feature present on many new cars but will likely be absent from older used cars.

Get These Add-ons for Your First Car

Your first car gives you a taste of the freedom of the open road. Unfortunately, many dealerships will try to up-sell you on add-ons you don't need.

These seven add-ons will keep you safe, help preserve your car's longevity, and maximize the joy you get from being behind the wheel.

Ready to make some modifications to your new car? The skilled technicians at Xtreme Auto Glass & Window Tint are standing by to help you. Contact us today for a quote.