Premium car accessories for the modern driver
Cheap Car Accessories That Offer Amazing Value
You don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars to upgrade your driving experience. In fact, some of the most practical car improvements cost less than a tank of gas.
Many drivers assume that “low price” equals “low quality,” but that isn’t always true. In the world of automotive accessories, high value often comes in small, affordable packages. Whether it’s saving you a trip to the mechanic or modernizing your audio system, the right tool pays for itself almost immediately.
We’ve rounded up the best budget-friendly car accessories priced between $15 and $40. These aren’t cheap gimmicks—they are smart investments that solve expensive problems.
1. Basic OBD2 Scanner / Code Reader
The Problem: The dreaded “Check Engine” light turns on, and you have no idea why. The Fix: A pocket-sized diagnostic tool that plugs into your dashboard.
Mechanics often charge $100+ just to run a diagnostic test. A basic OBD2 scanner costs a fraction of that and tells you exactly what is wrong in seconds. While it won’t fix the car for you, it empowers you to know if it’s a loose gas cap (a free fix) or a serious engine issue.
Why It’s Amazing Value:
- Saves Money: potentially saves you hundreds in unnecessary diagnostic fees.
- User-Friendly: Simple plug-and-play design; no mechanical skills needed.
- Universal: Works on almost all cars built after 1996.
2. Bluetooth FM Transmitter
The Problem: Your older car runs great, but it doesn’t have Bluetooth for music or calls. The Fix: A device that broadcasts your phone’s audio through your car’s FM radio.
Replacing your entire car stereo system is expensive and complicated. An FM transmitter is a brilliant workaround that plugs into your cigarette lighter. It connects to your phone via Bluetooth and plays your music through an unused FM frequency on your radio.
Why It’s Amazing Value:
- Instant Upgrade: Modernizes a 15-year-old car for under $25.
- Hands-Free Safety: Includes a microphone for taking calls legally while driving.
- Dual Charging: Most models feature fast-charging USB ports for your devices.
3. Portable Digital Tire Inflator
The Problem: Hunting for quarters at a gas station air pump when your tire pressure light comes on. The Fix: A 12V portable compressor that stores in your trunk.
Driving on under-inflated tires ruins your gas mileage and wears out your treads faster. A portable inflator lets you top up your air anywhere, anytime. In this price range ($25–$40), you can get a solid digital unit that automatically shuts off when the tire reaches the correct pressure.
Why It’s Amazing Value:
- Fuel Savings: Proper tire pressure improves gas mileage instantly.
- Convenience: No more driving to gas stations to find a working air pump.
- Safety: Prevents blowouts caused by low pressure on highways.
4. Orthopedic Memory Foam Seat Cushion
The Problem: Stock car seats are too hard, causing back pain during long commutes. The Fix: An ergonomic cushion designed to relieve tailbone pressure.
You don’t need a luxury car to have a comfortable seat. High-quality memory foam cushions can transform a stiff economy seat into a plush, supportive throne. Look for “U-shaped” cutouts that float the tailbone to reduce spinal compression.
Why It’s Amazing Value:
- Comfort: Makes a 1-hour commute feel like a 20-minute drive.
- Posture Support: Helps align your spine and reduce lower back fatigue.
- Versatile: Can be taken out of the car and used on office chairs or stadium seats.
5. Waterproof Hanging Car Trash Can
The Problem: Receipts, wrappers, and bottles cluttering your floor and cup holders. The Fix: A dedicated, leak-proof bin that straps to the headrest or console.
A messy car feels older and cheaper than it is. While a plastic grocery bag works in a pinch, it looks tacky and often spills. A structured car trash can with a lid keeps odors contained and maintains your car’s resale value by protecting the carpet from stains.
Why It’s Amazing Value:
- Aesthetics: instantly makes your interior look organized and professional.
- Protection: Waterproof lining prevents sticky soda leaks from ruining carpets.
- Storage: Many models have side pockets for extra storage of wipes or sanitizers.
6. Heavy-Duty Trunk Organizer
The Problem: Groceries and emergency gear rolling around noisily in the trunk. The Fix: A collapsible, multi-compartment storage bin.
Nothing is worse than hearing your groceries slam against the side of the car when you turn a corner. For around $20–$30, a trunk organizer anchors your belongings. Look for one with tie-down straps to keep the organizer itself from sliding.
Why It’s Amazing Value:
- Damage Control: Prevents fragile items (like eggs or glass) from breaking.
- Space Management: Reclaims your trunk space by stacking items vertically.
- Collapsible: Folds flat to the size of a laptop bag when not in use.
Conclusion: Smart Spending for Better Driving
You don’t always get what you pay for—sometimes, you get more.
These accessories prove that a small budget of $15 to $40 can solve major headaches like check engine lights, back pain, and disorganized cabins.
Our Top Pick: If you buy just one item, grab the OBD2 Scanner. It is the only tool on this list that can literally pay for itself the very first time you use it.
Upgrade your ride today without breaking the bank.