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40Tech is pleased to present a guest post from Patricia.
There is a near infinite amount of electronic gadgets available for cars. Some are wacky and unnecessary, and some are truly innovative and useful. Here are ten electronic gadgets that will make life easier for any driver.
10. Interlock breathalyzer
For those who worry about drunk drivers, this device is a true lifesaver. It prevents a car from being turned on until the breathalyzer registers that the driver is not drunk.
9. Portable electronic air compressor
It’s a good idea to keep one of these in the trunk in case of a flat. They plug into the cigarette lighter and can save the day and allow you to make it to help in an emergency.
8. Engine light code reader
That nasty engine light can mean something serious or simply that the gas cap is loose. Rather than taking the car to a mechanic and paying big bucks to find out, check why the light is on yourself with one of these handy gadgets.
7. Radar detector
Not just for maniacal speeders, they help safe drivers avoid unfair speed traps in which speed limits drop abruptly with no warning signs. They are also a great help for those drivers who tend to lose track of how fast they are going.
6. Side mirror blinkers
These blinkers are a lifesaver for the driver that is changing lanes without noticing another vehicle in his blind spot. It allows other drivers to see the blinker without actually having to be behind the car.
5. Back-up camera
These not only help with avoiding other cars, they are great for detecting small children, animals, or other objects that the rear view mirror is not in a position to show.
4. In-car DVD player
For long trips, these are a great way to keep both kids and adults entertained. They also help keep parents focused on driving instead of dealing with tired and cranky kids.
3. A Hands-Free Kit
A kit that allows cell phone use without physically answering the phone is not only a convenience, but an important safety consideration. It allows the driver to keep hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.
2. GPS
Even though many phones and computers now have GPS in them, having a unit in the car is much more convenient. They prevent the headache and frustration of getting lost and are vital when driving in unfamiliar areas.
1. Car alarm
Nothing is so vital to a car as that which keeps it your possession. While most cars these days have electronic locks, there is still no substitute for a true car alarm. If your car is often parked in a crime-ridden area, a car alarm is essential.
Bio: Patricia knows nearly everything regarding vehicles. She assists people on the site CashforTrucks.com, rated as the number one car buying company.
Kosmo @ The Soap Boxers says:
Many years ago, I had a portable air compressor. Every time I used it, it blew a fuse. (Could I have used a different fuse? Sure … but there’s a good reason for using the correct fuse).
A friend had the exact same model (it was an option as a company gift) and had the exact same problem.
Portable air compressor, meet Mr. Trash Can.
August 25, 2011 — 10:10 am
Cristian Balau says:
Very useful gadgets, really. To bad my car doesn’t many if the above. (its incredible old and …. old.)
I love it and everything but an alarm and gps would be nice features…
August 25, 2011 — 8:44 pm
qka says:
There’s nothing “electronic” about an air compressor. “Electric” yes, “electronic”, no.
August 27, 2011 — 2:08 pm
subjex says:
A kit that allows cell phone use without physically answering the phone is not only a convenience, but an important safety consideration.
October 4, 2011 — 12:29 pm
Orlando Cell Phone Repair says:
A car alarm is essential. My car was broken into at my home at night and the only reason they ran was the alarm went off. Other then that, a GPS is also becoming absolutely essential in these days.
July 16, 2012 — 4:55 pm
Tracy-low cost franchise says:
This is a great list. I always find a GPS and a car alarm important. I also have a lock device installed in my car where in it require a code before you can actually get it rolling;the best of having it installed is that when somebody tries to steal your car and they entered the wrong code they’ll get locked in. :)
July 26, 2012 — 2:56 am