After months of lessons and practice, there’s no better feeling than when you finally pass that test and become a fully-fledged driver – ready to take on the roads and embark on a four-wheel adventure.
Of course, many learners are currently facing big delays when it comes to taking their practical test. An ongoing backlog created during the pandemic and lockdown means that many learners are having to wait weeks or even months before taking their test. Unfortunately, this increase in demand shows no signs of slowing down – with delays expected to run into 2024.
However, when you do finally pass that all-important test, you’ll want to be prepared with the best car accessories to help you on your journeys.
From safety essentials and tech to car interior accessories, here are the top products you should consider from Arnold Clark Autoparts.
Safety first
P plates
First things first, it’s time to bin the L plates, though you might want to replace them with P (probationary) plates - these show that you’ve just passed your test. Unlike L plates, they aren't required by law, but they do indicate to other drivers that you have less experience on the road so will encourage them to be more patient. These can be removed whenever you feel confident enough on the road.
Safety kit
You’ll also want your car to be well-stocked with some safety essentials. And while this isn’t hugely exciting, it is hugely important that you have the right gear when you need. For example, if you’re unfortunate enough to break down, you’ll want a warning triangle to sit at the back of your car to alert other road users you’re there. A hi-vis jacket is also handy, as well as a first aid kit. Luckily, these all feature in our 3 in 1 safety travel kit.
And don’t forget those jump leads – you never know when you might need to jump-start your car!
Tyre inflator
Next up, a tyre inflator is an essential part of your safety kit. We stock digital and analogue tyre inflators, as well as emergency puncture repair kits for any worst-case scenarios. Of course, keeping your tyres well-inflated is vital for avoiding any roadside emergencies and while topping up your tyres may sound intimidating, it can actually save you money in the long run. Underinflated tyres are less fuel-efficient, which means more petrol in the tank. So, it’s always useful to keep a tyre inflator handy in case you need a quick top-up – especially if you want to avoid a flat end to your journey. This small digital pressure gauge is also good to have – allowing you to check the condition of your tyres and get an accurate pressure and tyre depth reading.
Ice scraper
Cold weather is always going to hit at some point, so make sure you’re fully prepared for when it does. You don’t want to be scraping your windscreen with a credit card and you definitely shouldn’t use boiling water – so an ice scraper will help you out on those frosty mornings. On top of this, the CarPlan Demon Winter Chill Gift Pack features an array of essentials that can help your get your car running during the harsh winter conditions – including a screenwash booster, antifreeze and coolant, and a de-icer.
Exterior accessories
When you first hit the road in your new set of wheels, you want to make sure your car is looking the part. That’s why we recommend the CarPlan Demon Valeting Car Care Gift Pack - featuring all the products that will give your car an enviable showroom finish. It’s time to get that car sparkling!
Interior styling
Your car might be gleaming from the outside, but there are plenty of ways to add some character to your new set of wheels – from fluffy dice and floor mats to branded flasks to a wide selection of keyrings.
Air freshener
From fresh and fruity to strong and refreshing, we have a wide choice of car air fresheners to suit everyone. With an array of fun and unique scents available, you can browse our products here.
Backseat and boot organisers
If your car gets a little untidy at times, we have the perfect solution for you. The Ford CleanUp Litter Bin is compact and designed specially for cup holders and compartments – perfect for storing wrappers and other small bits of rubbish that may be flying around. Meanwhile, a boot organiser is ideal for storing items you don't want rattling around your boot.
If you want to go that little step further to ensure your car is kept spic and span, you could invest in a handheld vacuum cleaner – perfect for getting in those tight spots and picking up any unwanted dust or mess.
Gadgets and tech
Dash cam
Dash cams are a great way to improve your safety on the road – plus, you can get lower car insurance costs from certain providers if you have one installed, since you’ll have evidence of any accidents or claims. It can often be difficult to prove where the blame lies in an incident, meaning there’s a possibility of losing your insurance payout and no claims bonus. So, with a dash cam, you not only have extra peace of mind – but you can also save money and a lengthy insurance claim. Check out the collection here.
Reversing camera
Even the most experienced driver can struggle to park in the tight spots at times. So, a reversing camera which can help you master the dreaded reverse park is sure to be a hit.
Air purifier
For those who get hit particularly hard by pollen counts, anything that can help alleviate hay fever symptoms in the good weather is a must have. Introducing the Air for Life sanifier ionisers: your answer to pollen, fur, and anything else that might tickle your nose. These work by eliminating pollutants, bacteria and viruses in the air, as well as dust, pollen and pet dander – providing cleaner, fresher air and protection in your car. And it’s as simple as just plugging it in. There are many Air For Life products available to suit your personal needs but for your car, we recommend the AFL Car Sanifier.
Phone accessories
Whether you’re using your phone’s navigation, playing music or taking a call, it’s very handy to have somewhere to mount your phone safely and securely. You’ll find that most phone holders can be clipped onto your air vents or stick to your dashboard or windscreen. We can also make sure you’re fully charged for the whole journey with this battery charger.
So, those are our top car accessories and equipment that should be on the list of any new driver. In the meantime, you can discover thousands of great products at Arnold Clark Autoparts for any of your car-related needs here.
Enjoy this blog? Read more below:
- Ionisers: the answer to seasonal hay fever?
- Road trip essentials: eight accessories you can’t forget
- The ultimate MOT checklist and guide
- Everything you need to know about number plates
Image credit: Nuttawan Jayawan via Vecteezy
