SPEED reporter Ray Dunlap checks out a car with NASCAR custom wheels during one of his 'Car Care Know How' segments on 'NASCAR Performance.' Credit: Contributed Photo

Enhance your bland vehicle, and save money

As they make the rounds to select their new vehicle, many shoppers recoil at sticker prices. With cars now averaging well above $20,000, some buyers re-evaluate their needs and desires, reluctantly settling for the no-frills, "plain vanilla" model.

With time, however, these same motorists may find themselves with a few extra dollars they can invest in their vehicle.

You may be asking yourself, "Is it time to buy another car, even though there are still payments to make?"

Well, instead of replacing your vehicle, consider repairing and upgrading what you already have.

Vehicle accessories can add new personality to your basic vehicle. Most of the products in the $24-plus billion customizing/accessory industry are totally functional; some combine function with cosmetic improvement. From custom wheels (NASCAR style: www.victorywheels.com) to navigation systems and stereos, a few unique "bells and whistles" can pimp out any ride.

The cost of these components ranges from a few dollars to a few thousand. Still, you could have most of them installed for much less than the price of a new vehicle.

So if you're considering trading, crunch the numbers first. You might find you'd be just as happy (and many dollars richer!) with a few selected enhancements.

Vehicle Personality Enhancement List:

• Air dams and spoilers
• Pick-up bed mats
• Anti-theft devices
• Pick-up box tonneau covers
• Bug deflectors
• RV and towing accessories
• Camper caps
• Radar detectors
• Car phones
• Remote engine starting systems
• Carrier racks
• Running boards
• Custom seats
• Special shock absorbers
• Custom wheels
• Stereo systems
• Grille guards
• Striping and/or decals
• Instrumentation
• Sun roofs
• Keyless entry systems
• Vehicle navigation systems
• Neon trim lighting
• Wheels & tires
• Personal breath alcohol testers
• Window tinting