Maintenance + Repair
4 Cheap Car Makeovers
|
|
|
Is your vehicle starting to look a little old? Does the interior turn your dates off before they get in the car? Are you ready to spruce up your baby because you can't afford to trade it in for a shiny, new one? Here are a few tips that will change the way your car looks without digging too deeply into your new car fund. Maybe after a little TLC, you'll cash that fund in for a long vacation on the beach.
Paint Job
Compared to a new car, a paint job is a reasonably priced way to give your wheels a brand new look. Everyone gets tired of looking at the same old colour, especially if the car has been around for a while, so giving it a new paint job will brighten everything up.
Companies like Maaco will give your vehicle a whole new look from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars depending on what you want done. Have any dents or scratches fixed while you're at it and you'll be well on your way to looking good on a budget. If you're looking for a pick me up, a fresh coat of paint is sure to get your car noticed again.
The adventurous (and handy) types can make it a DIY project to save extra money on a fresh look.
Go Shopping
Go to your local automotive store and take a look around. A few accessories will have your vehicle back in tiptop shape in no time at all.
New seat covers are a great way to give your car a quick makeover. Look for covers that are stain resistant and are made of material that won't have you sweating in the summer. Seat covers come in a variety of styles and colours. You can buy your favourite hockey team's logo or colour coordinate with your exterior paint.
While you're at it, you should look for coordinating floor mats and a steering wheel cover to finish off this practically painless makeover. Changing up the accessories will revitalize your style and can be done for under $100 if you shop around.
If you're ready for a big change and don't mind spending a little more money, consider changing your rims and tires to alter the silhouette of your vehicle. This is a makeover option that can get pricey; decide what you're willing to spend (and if it's worth improving your current car) before you start shopping.
A new sound system will also revamp any car. Make sure it's mp3 compatible so you can bring your tunes with you wherever you go.
Car Wash And Thorough Cleaning
If you're not into getting your hands dirty, you can have your car professionally detailed for around $100. It's like a haircut for your car and well worth the money if you don't have the time or interest to do it yourself.
If you'd rather do it yourself, take your car to the carwash and splurge on all the good stuff: wash and wax for maximum shine. Then grab a rag and begin cleaning the interior. A little Armour All, or other car cleaning and protecting product, will wipe away the dust that's building up on your dashboard.
Use a shop vac or vacuum at the car wash to remove any evidence of children, spills or pet hair. Then give the glass a wipe inside and out and be sure not to leave any streaks! The final step is to freshen the car: either replace that worn air freshener or invest in some fabric cleaner and revitalizer for a fresh smell to go with a clean look.
A Tune Up
Give your car a tune up on the inside and suddenly what's on the outside hardly matters anymore. Besides being a good idea for safety and the longevity of your vehicle, a tune up lets you feel that your car is new again. The engine light isn't flashing at you anymore and you notice a smoother drive.
Visit your mechanic, but know where you draw the line before you step into the shop. Most shops have a regular check up or a specially priced inspection where they go over the basics. A little regular maintenance will do your car wonders and neglecting this will land you on the side of a highway someday. Do yourself (and your car) a favour.
A New Look For A Low Price
We all know keeping our cars looking good, gassed-up and insured is a strain on the wallet, but these tips will help you change the look of your car for an affordable sum of money. A little pick me up is sometimes all you need to give an old car a new look or revamp your current look. A paint job or a new set of seat covers can make all the difference and can fit any budget.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
