You can modernize the interior of a vehicle by changing features that have become outdated, starting with things that are frequently used and noticeable to the eye. These include the infotainment system, the ignition, ambient lighting and dash board and door panel trim.
The interior of a vehicle is generally made up of seats, floors, headliner, windows, console, dashboard, instrument panel and steering wheel. Vehicles experience changes in styling trends and advancements in technology. Some changes are more noticeable then others and these are the types of changes that will make a vehicle feel outdated during the driving experience. Condition is also factor in interior feeling outdated, if materials are worn, faded and coming apart it makes the vehicle feel older than it really is.
| MAJOR INSTALL | MINOR INSTALL | ACCESSORIES |
| Infotainment System | Trim Panel Cover | Air Freshener |
| Push Button Ignition Switch | Push Button/Ring Cover | Key Fob Cover |
| HVAC/Radio/Accessory Lights | Ambient Lighting | Courtesy Door Lights |
| Reupholster Seats | Accent Stitching | Side Mirror Lights |
| Gap Filler Trim | Headrest Pillows | |
| Steering Wheel Cover | USB Converter | |
| Bluetooth Transmitter |
Infotainment System
The infotainment system in a vehicle is probably the most significant feature that can make a vehicle’s interior look dated. Imagine someone getting into a car that still has a cassette deck; this would be a clear sign that the vehicle is old. This is not just an aesthetic issue but it also affects convenience because cassettes are not widely available in the market place anymore so having the technology and not being able to use it is a waste. Now that there are more efficient forms of music technology that exist older forms have been abandoned not just for style but because they function better.
In addition to the advances in the type of music format that is used in the latest vehicles, the interface has also changed. Physical buttons are used less frequently and digital touchscreens are relied upon more often because of their ease of use and versatility in screen display. Instead of having multiple buttons for functions, a digital touchscreen can have multiple displays that are only revealed when activated by the user and button function can change with each display. These touchscreens also have a very sleek, streamlined look to them.
Frequency
Infotainment systems are used frequently; when someone gets into a vehicle they engage in the main driving and setting functions but after that many people use the infotainment system for music, movies, news, educational lessons, navigation and sometimes the air conditioning controls. This feature can potentially get use every time the vehicle is used, and be engaged with multiple times during a single ride. This is a feature that even the passengers can engage with during the drive, so it can receive that much more attention, some vehicle include rear seat infotainment systems.
Location
The infotainment system is so noticeable and eye catching because it is located in the front center of the vehicle. It is the vocal point of the vehicle and aside from the gauge cluster it has a lot of features to look at.
Installation
Upgrading an old infotainment unit to something new and modern is a common, standard procedure that can be performed by most audio video car customization shops, even some Walmart and Best Buy locations have car audio video departments with trained technicians that can perform the install. Depending on the make and model of the vehicle the install can require removing the dashboard or parts of the instrument panel, wiring the new system and mounting it, which might require some retrofitting depending on the location of the brackets.
Upgrading an old cassette or CD player to a new Androidauto, Applecarplay touchscreen unit is the best change that can be made to a vehicles interior in order to modernize it. Replacing an outdated unit that is the visual centerpiece of the interior that can clearly be seen while inside or outside the vehicle, with a state of the art, modern, sleek touchscreen is worth the costs. These units range in cost and offer all of the new technology including Bluetooth capability, pairing devices, modern navigation and modern interface.
Advancements in technology happen quickly, in a matter of several years new types of technology can become popular leaving older forms of technology obsolete. Smartphones are very popular, which includes the use of Bluetooth technology and the use of convenient apps. Used luxury vehicles that are affordable are sometimes a generation behind the current model and they do not come with all of the updated features.
You want to be able to conveniently sync and pair your devices to your vehicle so that you can enjoy the latest features and technology. Listen to music, use modern navigation, talk on Bluetooth, watch YouTube and access the internet. You have to update your infotainment system in order to take advantage of these features.
Also, there is a need to charge modern devices while in a vehicle and old 12 volt socket that use to come standard in older vehicles is almost useless these days, except for tools for a construction worker and some outdoor equipment for people who go camping. The best solution for this issue is to purchase a USB car adaptor. It is very inexpensive; the install is simple and only requires it to be plugged in. They come in a variety of colors and have several different features. This will at least give you and your passengers the ability to charge your devices while in the vehicle. People rely on their smartphones for so much, it is inconvenient if someone gets in your vehicle and can’t and needs to charge their phone but can’t. Please check out some options for USB car adaptors from our affiliate products.
DASH AND DOOR PANEL TRIM
The next way to modernize the interior of your vehicle is to update the instrument panel and door panel trim pieces. Over the years vehicle interior trends change and the decorative materials used to provide aesthetic interest end up becoming outdated.
Style and Finishes
The popular styles have changed from various wood finishes to brushed aluminum to carbon fiber to marble and high quality decorative plastics, like gloss piano black. Whatever the current trend may be, if a vehicle is a generation behind (approximately 10 years old) than it probably has outdated dash and door trim.
Location
The dash and door trim are located in highly visible places in the vehicle. Similar to the infotainment system, the dash and door trim are front and center, so it is always in the driver’s and passenger’s lines of sight or in their peripheral vision. It is a constant reminder of the outdated style. When you get into a new vehicle, aside from the new car smell, the trim is another feature of the vehicle leaves an impression, especially when the trim is well appointed and quality material. If a used luxury vehicle has standard, lower quality or outdated dash and door trim than a good option would be to modernize it by applying a dash trim kit.
Installation
Interior dash trim kits are decorative pieces that are pre-cut to match the button configuration of the exact vehicle make and model, with adhesive backs that are applied directly over the existing trim. The installation is easy and can be done by non-professionals. It requires patience and attention to detail and a full trim kit can usually be applied in 1 or 2 hours. For the amount of time it takes to install the trim kit and modernize and update a vehicles interior it is worth the effort.
Choosing Styles
Some trim kits come with pieces to cover for every panel and trim in the vehicle including small trim surrounding the air vents and steering controls. Which color and finish that someone chooses and which trim they choose to cover is a personal decision based on personal style and the look trying to be attained.
If someone has a unique vision and they are trying to attain a custom look then they should execute that vision. But if they are trying to modernize their vehicle similar to the newer model of that same vehicle then we suggest looking at pictures of the latest make and model of your vehicle, in the same exterior and interior colors and seeing what dash and door trim colors and finishes are in those vehicles and base your decision off of the new vehicle. We trust that the professional designers of these very popular vehicles have made well thought out choices, in which all colors and finishes complement each other and add to the overall aesthetic.
While we recommend using a trim kit to update the look of a vehicles interior, we do not recommend using the entire trim kit. Sticking the same color pieces over every exposed trim is typically not aesthetically pleasing and the color drowns itself out and can have effect of looking low quality. There is an artful balance in using a trim kit and it should be used in moderation.
When comparing your used luxury vehicle’s interior to the newest versions interior you should only cover your old trim pieces that are the larger ones and that appear to be the most outdated. This is generally the main:
MAIN PIECES SMALLER PIECES
Radio Panel A/C Vents
A/C control panel Door Panels
Middle console panel Cup Holder Trim
Door instrument panel Misc. smaller pieces
Ceiling control panel in the headliner.
Typically smaller pieces do not need to be covered because the original trim already coordinates with the rest of the vehicle and covering it with a different color sometimes causes visual dissonance and gives off a lower quality look. We suggest when it comes to trim, to only change what is needed and what has the biggest visual impact.
Cost
The cost of a trim kit is typically around $100, maybe more or less depending on how much trim you decide to get, this is an affordable price to be able to transform the look of a vehicles interior. The trim kit pieces should last for years depending on the type of wear they experience, they should wear at the same rate as the original dash and door trim pieces.
Types of dash trim kit
There are several types of interior dash trim kits that have different benefits based mainly on look and selection.
WRAP-AROUND PLASTIC TRIM – This plastic type of interior trim is the best for appearance because it provides full coverage over the existing trim it is pre-cut and is 2 dimensional. The design partially wraps around the existing trim to not only cover the top surface but also the side surfaces, so that visually it appears to be original.
The drawbacks are that it is slightly more expensive but still affordable. It is limited in the types of colors and finishes offered, it seems that carbon fiber is the only available option. And it is limited in the types of vehicles that they make trim kits for. It seems like they focus on newer vehicles, so there are not a lot of options for older luxury vehicles to use this product unfortunately.
FLAT PLASTIC TRIM – This plastic type of interior trim is the second best because it is pre-cut, 2 dimensional and very affordable because the trim kit comes with pieces to cover most of the exposed trim in a vehicle. It has trim kits for a decent variety of vehicles and a selection of the most popular types of colors and finishes.
The drawback is that since it is flat it does not provide full coverage over the entire existing trim pieces leaving the sides of the existing trim pieces exposed. This gives off an unfinished, cheap appearance because the old trim is peeking out from the sides underneath the new trim cover.
PRE-CUT VINYL TRIM – With the recent surge in popularity of exterior vinyl wraps some companies have noticed a demand for the type of material for other uses. This vinyl type of interior trim is the third best option because it is pre-cut, very affordable, provides the most comprehensive amount of pieces that cover most of the exposed interior trim, including the ceiling control panels. And it has an extensive variety of color options and you can pay extra for custom colors.
noticed a demand for the type of material for other uses. This vinyl type of interior trim is the third best option because it is pre-cut, very affordable, provides the most comprehensive amount of pieces that cover most of the exposed interior trim, including the ceiling control panels. And it has an extensive variety of color options and you can pay extra for custom colors.
The drawbacks are that it is not 2 dimensional, which means that it doesn’t provide the additional depth, which is more aesthetically pleasing and looks more natural. Another drawback is that applying the vinyl requires more patience and concentration than the first two options. Since the vinyl is thinner, it requires more attention while applying to make sure that it doesn’t wrinkle and stays smooth. Lastly, the pre-cut vinyl does not provide full coverage over the existing trim. The vinyl is applied to the top surface and the sides of the existing trim remains exposed, which can be aesthetically displeasing.
Rvinyl provids these types of trim kits, you can explore their selection here.
STANDAR UN-CUT VINYL WRAP – Another popular option and use for vinyl is to use a standard vinyl roll and wrap a vehicles interior trim with it similar to how the exterior is wrapped. This is the fourth best option because you can achieve full coverage of the existing trim by removing the pieces and applying the vinyl film over the entire piece, the front and the sides, so that no part of the existing trim shows through. This complete coverage gives a professional, factory look that is very pleasing to the eye. Even if the trim pieces are not removed during the application process the vinyl can be carefully tucked into the cracks and edges of the trim pieces in order to get the same factory full coverage look. Even though the vinyl wrap is not 2 dimensional, since it can be wrapped around the entire trim piece then it takes on the depth of the trim that it is fully covering.
Another benefit is that since you are not relying on a company to manufacture a pre-cut template, then you are not limited to the set selection that they have. You can choose any color and any finish. Also, it is completely up to you which existing pieces you decide to wrap in vinyl. A trim kit might have 40 or 50 pre-cut pieces that cover all of the typical trim pieces that are most visible and that most people want to cover. But with an un-cut standard vinyl roll you can choose to wrap anything! For instance, maybe you want to wrap the interior door pillars or maybe the plastic panels at the bottom sides of the seats. This are all pieces that can be wrapped using a standard vinyl roll that pre-cut trim kits do not provide. Lastly, this is the cheapest option because you will have to cut the vinyl yourself.
The drawbacks are that you have to cut the vinyl yourself, which is challenging because it requires a lot of intricate detailed cutting for every minor contour and shape of the trim that an amateur would have difficulties doing. There have been many failed attempts of over confidant do-it-yourselfers who try to apply vinyl themselves; to find out that they have underestimated the patience and technique required to apply it properly. So, while the vinyl wrap is very inexpensive, in many cases there will be an additional cost of paying for a professional to install it for you.
PAINT – Painting a vehicles interior trim pieces is another option that started out as the original way to customize trim. Over the years the previously mentioned overlay options have become more popular because they are faster and easier to apply and in some cases they can be removed with heat. The benefit of paint, or any other coating substance, is that it is permanent. Some people prefer any materials on their vehicle to be “real” and painting, staining or coating trim pieces is a way to customize and update the look of the trim and maintain the organic, authenticity of the piece instead of covering it with another material. There are endless colors and finish options but you can’t get a carbon fiber look with paint.
The drawbacks that come with choosing paint are time and labor. Rather a person does it themselves or if they hire someone, paint requires a lot of preparation. In order to do a proper paint job the trim must be removed, sanded down, primed, painted (maybe with multiple coats and a clear coat) and allowed to dry. This process will either take a lot of time or be expensive to pay someone else. Another drawback is that paint is permanent; if someone changes their mind then they have to go through the entire process again.
There are a lot of great options on the market to change a vehicles interior trim. All of them can be good choices. We have seen interior trim updated in a variety of ways with all of the options listed above and the final results were properly executed and looked perfect. It just depends on what look someone is going for.
Ignition
Another way to modernize a vehicles interior is by updating the ignition switch from a key ignition to a push button or push button/remote ignition. This feature is not something that passengers notice or recognize often, especially depending on where your ignition is located, either on the steering column, the middle console or the dash board. It may or may not be clearly in the line of sight of the passengers.
But when a passenger does notice the ignition switch or get a glimpse of the driver going through the outdated procedural motion of sticking a key in the ignition and turning it to start, even though it is a small feature that only takes several seconds to interact with, it is a clear reminder of the vehicle being outdated.
The convenience of a key ignition versus a push button ignition is the same. Evan though a push button is more sleek and modern it does not offer any additional conveniences. You still have to have the key fob near the vehicle to start it using the push button, so you do not get the benefit of not carrying a key at all. The outdated motion of turning the key might actually be tenths of a second faster than modern push starts because some push start buttons require the driver to push and hold before the car starts. One potential minor benefit of a push button over a traditional key is damage. While it does not happen often keys can get damaged, depending on where they are stored, how they are carried around throughout the day, constantly scratching against other hard items and surfaces. A push button might be a more durable option.
For a little extra money there are push button kits that have the additional feature of a remote start, which allows the driver to be in the proximity of the vehicle and start it from outside using the key fob. This is a feature that even some newer vehicles do not come standard with.
We suggest getting the push button with the remote start. To be able to modernize a vehicle past the features of some newer vehicles is worth the cost. The benefits of being able to either warm the vehicle up or cool it down before getting in is a useful feature and it is cool and does save a little time. The main reason to change the ignition switch is because it is cool; it helps modernize the look and adds a little convenience with the remote start.
PUSH BUTTON/RING COVER
If someone decides to install a push button ignition in their vehicle to modernize it they should also consider customizing the button with a unique color to fit the scheme of the vehicle. There are button covers, with adhesive backs (stickers) that adhere to the button, that come in a variety of colors and finishes, such as carbon fiber. There are also ring covers that go around the button, that allow you to subtly accent the ignition area with different color rings or rings that come in shiny crystal finishes. These accents are very small and barely noticeable but they are inexpensive and they show attention to detail.
If someone decides to install a push button ignition in their vehicle to modernize it, a new keyless, key fob will come with the push button kit.Usually the key fob that you will receive is the standard one. It is modern and sleek, black with chrome accents. Vehicle manufacturers have just recently began designing their keys with style, before a key was only an afterthought but now they have style and touchscreen displays, the key fob game has definitely leveled up. If you have an older vehicle, chances are you probably have a basic key.
The standard key fob that you receive with the push button kit will be an improvement but you can take it one step further by adding a leather, colorful or carbon fiber case. Key fob cases are inexpensive, they set you apart from standard key fobs and they look cool. Please visit our affiliate products to explore some options to customize your key fob.
AMBIENT LIGHTING
Another way to modernize your interior is by adding an ambient lighting kit. This is a soft, subtle, glowing interior light that remains on while the vehicle is running. It is a mode lighting that is warm, inviting, has a cool factor and can be a complimentary accent by changing the color of the light to match the interior.
Ambient lighting is cool but it is not one of our top interior features to help modernize a vehicle because it is a feature that does not exist on older luxury vehicles, the absence of this feature does not cause feelings of outdatedness. Like seeing an old 12 volt plug in a vehicle looks very outdated, as opposed to seeing a USB port. Also, some brand new luxury vehicles do not have ambient lighting. It is a trend that could change in the future so it is not on the top of our list of features to help modernize a vehicles interior. Vehicles like Mercedes and Range Rovers have been incorporating ambient lighting in their newer vehicles. We think if the newer version of your used luxury vehicle includes ambient lighting than that is more reason to follow their styling and install an ambient lighting kit in your vehicle.
Ambient lighting kits are inexpensive; the technology is basic so most kits can sufficiently achieve a factor style look. Some come with additional features of being able to manually select different colors for different moods. Some kits have a sound sensitive feature that allows the lighting color to change by the sound of you speakers. Some kits can be linked to your smart phone and there are kits made to be installed in headliners to create a star atmosphere similar to the Rolls Royce.
Please visit our affiliate products to explore some ambient lighting options and prices.
HVAC/RADIO/ACCESSORY LIGHTS
Another way to modernize the interior of a vehicle is by changing the A/C, radio and window control button background light bulbs. These are the lights that illuminate the labels and designations of the controls and make them easier to use and read/scan quickly.
The brightness and color of the bulbs in a used luxury vehicle are effective and serve the purpose of providing enough light to quickly access and use the controls.
While adding new LED bulbs to a used luxury vehicle will help improve the brightness a little, the main reason to change the bulbs is to be able to change the color to look more modern and get the sharper more concentrated beam of an LED bulb.
Lighting colors go through trends and our eyes get use to certain colors being considered old and outdated and other being considered to be fresh and new. Some of the older color lights are yellow and green based colors and some of the newer color lights are blue and white based.
This is a very minor detail that is not noticeable to the average person but it does make a difference and when someone gets in a vehicle and feels like it is new but does not know why, this is one of the small details that helps create a new feeling visual environment.
We suggest changing the A/C, radio and window switch control lights bulbs because they are inexpensive and provide a modern look that is small but constantly in use while in the vehicle. While the bulbs are inexpensive the cost to install them can be high because it requires a lot of labor to take apart the dashboard, door panels and/or instrument panels, depending on which bulbs are being replaced. We suggest not to install these bulbs alone but to change them in conjunction with another upgrade, so that changing the bulbs can done in addition to the other install and effectively for free since panels will already be taken apart.
ACCENT STITCHING COLOR
Another way to modernize the interior of a used luxury vehicle is by coloring the upholstery stitching in a contrasting color from the seats, dashboard and door panels. Many performance vehicles have started to include accented stitching in their vehicles to give a visual effect of contrast, since some interior is mostly one solid color, this accent helps breakup the monotonous color block and provide visual interest.
The stitching option is the most detailed because stitching is a small thread that holds the fabric together, it is located on many sides and surfaces and can have very intricate patterns. Changing the color of the stitching requires hand coloring every visually exposed thread. Which is extremely laborious, requires concentration and patience.
Some vehicles give visual interest by adding contrasting piping, which is the material located at the seams of the seats that look like a tiny pipes or cables outlining the seats. Or by adding contrasting inserts to the seats and panels that make them look two-tone.
If you use a stitch pen, it is designed with a narrow tip that helps make it easier to color the small threading and follow along with the pattern. It might take a while but this small detail does transform the look and feel of the vehicles interior, giving it a pop of color.
We suggest looking at a newer model of your vehicle to see if it has color stitching and what color it is in order to get an idea on how to style your vehicle. Some vehicles do not look good with color stitching, especially if it already has contrasting piping or inserts. Overdoing custom accents can have an opposite visual effect than desired that looks busy and cheap.
GAP FILLER TRIM
Another way to modernize a vehicles interior is by adding accent trim to your dashboard and door panels. This thin trim strip is a similar accent to color stitching because it is a small pop of color that subtly runs the length of the groves and crevasses in the large surfaces.
Another way to modernize a vehicles interior is by adding accent trim to your dashboard and door panels. This thin trim strip is a similar accent to color stitching because it is a small pop of color that subtly runs the length of the groves and crevasses in the large surfaces.
Choosing the gap filler trim has a couple advantages over the color stitching. First it is a lot easier and quicker to install. All you have to do is stick it into place, the existing interior panel gaps do not need to be removed for the installation. The trim has to be cut to the proper length and then firmly pressed into place. This can be done in much less time than coloring the stitching. The second advantage is that while the gap filler trim is designed to fit into the gap perfectly it is also very easy to remove it. If someone changes their mind or wants to change the trim color, the removal is easier than the install, all that is required is to firmly pull it out.
In our opinion, gap filler trim looks amazing in some vehicles, it perfectly contrast with the interior and gives a visual cool color accent to keep the interior from looking boring. But we don’t think this accent works well in every vehicle and can look bad in some interiors because the overall aesthetic style does not call for it.
We suggest looking at the interiors of newer models of your vehicle and check out the new styling features to help you decide what looks good. Ultimately it comes down to personal taste but this will help in the decision making process.
STEERING WHEEL COVER
Another way to modernize the look of a used vehicle is to install a steering wheel cover. The steering wheel is both aesthetic and functional. While it does not stand out as the most noticeable feature in the vehicles interior, when it becomes worn out it does begin to become an eye sore. It also becomes a physical distraction if it begins to chip, crack or deteriorate. If the driver has to constantly grip and turn a worn out steering wheel then that will make the driving experience unpleasant.
here are two types of steering wheel covers based on installation process.
Wrap-Around
There is the simple wrap-around cover that has elastic in the edges that easily fits around the existing steering wheel and leaves the center area exposed.
These wrap-around covers are inexpensive and have an unfinished, low quality look to them. Since they are only held in place by the elastic than when the driver grips the steering wheel firmly there is slight movement that feels cumbersome and unnatural.
We do not prefer these types of covers but we do recognize that they are a good solution for drivers who park their vehicles outside and want to protect the existing steering wheel by covering it from receiving too much sun exposure. People who already have a damaged steering might also like these covers if they want a quick fix. Adding a wrap-around cover could be a better option than a worn out, deteriorating steering wheel that is an eye sore.
Stitch Cover
The second type of steering wheel cover is the stitch cover, which is a material that fully wraps around the existing steering wheel cover, leaving no part of the existing cover exposed. And is tightly hand stitched together at the seams, making it appear to be like a factory finished steering wheel.
We prefer this type of cover because it looks better. You are able to achieve a factory for an affordable price. But it does require a time consuming installation process. The stitching can be done by the average person even without any experience as a tailor but it takes patience.
Reupholster Seats
Another way to modernize the interior of a used vehicle is to reupholster the seats with custom leather material. One of the reasons for new car small is attributed to the scent from fresh unused combination of natural odors and processed chemicals that carpet and upholstery emit. Reupholstering your vehicles old seats will bring back a new car small and completely modernize a vehicle interior.
The seats have the most surface area in a vehicle so they are always seen and used by driver and passengers and visible from the outside of the vehicle. We focus on modernizing used luxury vehicles and most luxury vehicles come with quality leather seats. If they are maintained and taken care of than we do not suggest changing the upholstery because leather seats do not look outdated since there have not been major changes in styles. We think leather seats can still look good even if they are old as long as they are in good shape.
If your leather seats are worn out, cracking, tearing up and are an eye sore than we think it is a good idea to consider getting an estimate on reupholstering the seats. Also, if you purchased a used luxury vehicle, normally leather seats are included but sometimes the lowest trim level models might come with cloth seats and in that case we would also recommend considering getting an estimate to reupholster the cloth seats because they tend to wear out faster than leather, do not look as stylish and absorb more bacteria over the years.
Reupholstering seats is relatively expensive and we only recommend doing it in the rare situations as mentioned above. One of the companies at the forefront of the reupholstering industry is Katzhin. They offer a variety of styles and colors with custom stitch patterns. Their materials and installation looks as good as factory quality seats and can completely transform a vehicles interior, giving it a new car look and a new car smell. Please visit their website for more information and also explore our affiliate’s products here.
USB CONVERTOR/BLUETOOTH TRANSMITTER
Another way to modernize a used vehicles interior is by adding a USB convertor and a Bluetooth transmitter. These devices are only needed if your vehicle is old enough and did not come standard with the technology. These devices are very inexpensive, they both easy to use and only require being plugged in to use.
These devices are small and not visually noticeable. They do not have a big impact on visually modernizing a vehicles interior like some of the other features we have mentioned but they have a big impact on convenience. If a person is driving and they or their passengers do not have access to these devices and the technology that they provide then it will be a big inconvenience and can have a bad effect on the entire driving experience, and be a constant reminder of how outdated the vehicle is.
We suggest if you purchase a used luxury vehicle that does not support modern technology, to immediately purchase these devices for modern convenience. While they do not make a big visual impact, their design is sleek and modern so it does give a modern feel if someone glances at them or when they are in use.
If you decide to purchase and install a new infotainment system then a Bluetooth transmitter is not needed. These smaller devices are quick fixes; please visit our affiliate products to explore prices, options and styles that you might be interested in.
AIR FREHSENER
Another small way to modernize the interior of a vehicle is by using a modern type of air freshener. While this is a very small detail and has little to do with the main purpose of an air freshener, which is to produce fresh smells and overcome bad odors. Even though traditional air fresheners work fine, modern air fresheners have evolved a little over time and they do provide stronger scents, in a variety of flavors and delivered through more effective methods.
The classic tree air fresheners do a great job but they do not have the modern features or the modern look of newer air fresheners. When a passenger gets into a vehicle and notices a fresh aroma it is very pleasing and impressive. And when a passenger notices a modern air freshener discretely mounted in the interior it looks cool and shows attention to detail for a consistent modern aesthetic. Modern vehicles like Mercedes have made advancements in the air freshener area. In the past vehicles came with a “new car smell” when they were new but they did not have an air freshener or fragrance feature. Air fresheners were only aftermarket accessories. Now modern luxury vehicles enhance your ride with air scent atomizers, which are fragrances that are filtered through the A/C vent system. They offer perfumes that help set the mood and not just freshen the air.
We think it is worth it to consider mounting a modern air freshener in your vehicle the next time you are looking for a way to keep your fresh. There are several good aftermarket options on the market that are made to be installed in older used vehicles. They offer stronger perfume based scents that work in conjunction with the A/C vent system.
COURTESY DOOR/SIDE MIRROR LIGHTS
Another way to modernize a used vehicle is by updating the courtesy lights and side mirror spot lights. This includes both the interior and exterior lights. Similar to the ambient and accessory lighting as mentioned above, courtesy and side mirror lights can have a subtle effect on giving a used vehicle an updated look.
Just like trends and styles in a vehicle’s exterior and interior change over time; so do trends and styles in lighting. Lighting technology has evolved from halogen to HID to LED. All interior courtesy lights can be updated to LED lights in order to modernize the interior. This will give the lighting an updated color and a sharper beam that will give the feeling of a more modern effect when in use.
A very cool modern lighting feature is the updates that have happened to the door and side mirror lights. Instead of having a standard light shining on the ground in order to illuminate the area around the vehicle while getting in and out. Some newer vehicles now come with logo projector spot lights that not only light up the area around the vehicle but also shine the vehicle logo on the ground. This is a very cool custom feature that is not only functional but also impressive and gives the vehicle a subtle wow factor that surprises passengers when entering and exiting the vehicle.
Both the logo lights and LED lights are inexpensive and easy to install, every vehicle is different but in many situations changing the lights are as easy as changing a light bulb. The light housing has to be removed and either directly replaced or the bulb switched out with the new one.
COMBINING INSTALLATION
It is important to consider combining the installation of the different upgrades because while the cost of some of the new parts might be inexpensive. The cost to install anything that requires removing the dashboard and door panels is labor intensive, time consuming and therefore expensive.
If the interior is already being taken apart to install one upgrade, we would suggest installing other upgrades at the same time in order to save on money. Generally, we believe starting with the most expensive upgrade, which is most of the time the touchscreen infotainment system, and then including other less expensive upgrades.
If someone does not plan on installing a more expensive infotainment system and is considering upgrading the HVAC/Radio accessory lights, we would suggest postponing installing the accessory lights because they are a less noticeable upgraded feature, that is very inexpensive, compared to the potential installation. When our overall goal is save money and be financially responsible, we want to keep that in mind when considering installation cost.
The ignition switch upgrade is a feature that is significant enough that it is worth being installed on its own. If someone decided that they wanted to upgrade their ignition switch but not their infotainment system, we think it would financially justify the cost of installation and the HVAC/Radio/Accessory lights should also be installed with the ignition switch install because the interior will already be taken apart.
It is important to consider combining the installation of the different upgrades because while the cost of some of the new parts might be inexpensive. The cost to install anything that requires removing the dashboard and door panels is labor intensive, time consuming and therefore expensive.
If the interior is already being taken apart to install one upgrade, we would suggest installing other upgrades at the same time in order to save on money. Generally, we believe starting with the most expensive upgrade, which is most of the time the touchscreen infotainment system, and then including other less expensive upgrades.
If someone does not plan on installing a more expensive infotainment system and is considering upgrading the HVAC/Radio accessory lights, we would suggest postponing installing the accessory lights because they are a less noticeable upgraded feature, that is very inexpensive, compared to the potential installation. When our overall goal is save money and be financially responsible, we want to keep that in mind when considering installation cost.
The ignition switch upgrade is a feature that is significant enough that it is worth being installed on its own. If someone decided that they wanted to upgrade their ignition switch but not their infotainment system, we think it would financially justify the cost of installation and the HVAC/Radio/Accessory lights should also be installed with the ignition switch install because the interior will already be taken apart.
| IF YOU INSTALL THIS | DEFINITELY INSTALL THIS | CONSIDER INSTALLIING |
| Infotainment System | HVAC/Radio/Accessory Lights | Push Button Ignition Switch |
| IF YOU INSTALL THIS | DEFINITELY INSTALL THIS | CONSIDER INSTALLIING |
| Push Button Ignition Switch | HVAC/Radio/Accessory Lights | Infotainment System |
| YOU SHOULD NOT INSTALL THIS | UNLESS YOU INSTALL THIS | OR THIS |
| HVAC/Radio/Accessory Lights | Infotainment System | Push Button Ignition Switch |
