Considering that the average new car costs around $47,338, you can appreciate the hefty financial commitment involved in purchasing one.
But that’s just the purchase price. In an article citing AAA research, NerdWallet reports that the average annual cost for a used vehicle is $12,297 or $1,024 monthly. So, car ownership expenses can add up quickly and leave owners in a hole if they’re not careful.
That’s one reason Americans retain their vehicles for an average of 12.6 years, which is a record. However long you own your vehicle, you might want to personalize it to suit your tastes. The same old can get boring.
Some people swap their old cars for new ones because they want something new. But by trying some of the following five options, you can update your car’s exterior and give it a new lease on life.
1. Custom License Plates
Custom license plates are a cost-effective way to upgrade your car’s exterior aesthetic. When you get your custom license plates from the right source, the sky’s the limit. You can get auto-brand plates, religious plates, sport or hobby plates, military plates, promotional plates, and more.
It’s worth looking into if you want to improve the exterior of your car, truck, SUV, or minivan without spending an arm and a leg. Your vehicle will stand out for the right reasons, even if it’s a common make and model. Custom license plates can make that much of a difference. Your vehicle will have a more distinctive appearance.
2. Vinyl Car Wraps
One sure way to upgrade your vehicle’s exterior is by investing in a vinyl wrap. Vinyl wraps for cars offer tons of benefits. They afford protection from dings and scratches, higher resale value, customization possibilities in terms of colors and styles, and easier maintenance.
A car wrap also tends to be more cost-effective than a complete paint job — and the vinyl wrap is removable, should you ever decide to go in another direction. It’s a great option if your car needs a facelift.
Grand View Research reports that the global automotive wrap films segment is on pace to grow at a 22.1% compound annual growth rate from 2024 to 2030, reaching $28,89 billion by 2030. The market is growing because consumers recognize the benefits of car wraps.
3. Custom Wheels
Yet another way to personalize the exterior of your ride is to get custom wheels. Few things will make as big a difference to the outside of whatever you drive. You can get them in different sizes, finishes, materials, and styles. While going this route can cost a pretty penny, the impact on the aesthetics front can be substantial.
4. Window Tinting
While tinting your car’s windows can work wonders, taking on this project is about more than looks. Window tinting offers protection from ultraviolet rays, lessens glare, safeguards against cracking and fading in the cabin, saves money by reducing the need to use the AC, and more. So, window tinting makes sense.
One reason to get it done professionally is that a service provider in the space will know about tinting regulations in your area. If the tint is too dark, you could run the risk of being pulled over by the cops. The last thing you want is to get your car’s windows tinted and then get a fine.
5. Decals
You can also put decals on the exterior of your vehicle. You can use them to change the look of your car relatively inexpensively, advertise your business, show devotion to your favorite sports team, and more.
If you have a vehicle and want to improve the exterior look, consider one or more of these five options. You don’t have to buy a brand-new car to change things up.
Whether you go with one of these options or something else, there are many ways to give your vehicle a new lease on life.
