The Northwest’s Largest Automotive Restyler

9 Essential Car Exterior Upgrades for Spring

Table of Contents

Spring Car Makeovers: Embracing a New Season

As the chill of winter fades and spring approaches, it’s the perfect time to give your vehicle a spring makeover. Enhancing the appearance and functionality of your car with upgrades not only improves its aesthetic appeal and adds comfort, protects its value, and equips it for the sunny days ahead. Upgrades such as a sunroof, window tints, and Paint Protection Film (PPF) prepare your car for the year’s more active months and help safeguard its integrity against the elements.

When considering a spring car makeover, it’s essential to prioritize practicality and style. With a focus on exterior upgrades, your car can hit the road looking refreshed and ready to embrace the renewed energy that only spring can provide. Enhance visibility and ventilation with a modern sunroof, keep interiors cool and private with professional window tints, and shield your car’s paint with a durable PPF application. As you cruise into longer days and lighter evenings, embrace this time of renewal with a car that feels as rejuvenated as the season itself.

Imagine cruising down the open road with sunlight filtering through a panoramic view overhead. Upgrading your car with a sunroof, often called a skylight in the automotive industry, presents numerous advantages that enhance your driving experience. Here are some compelling reasons to consider this stylish and functional feature for your vehicle this spring:

  • Natural Light and Air: A sunroof invites natural light into your car, reducing the need for artificial lighting. It also circulates fresh air, creating a more comfortable and healthier driving environment.
  • Enhanced Aesthetics: A car with a skylight invariably stands out. It adds a sleek and luxurious appearance to your car’s exterior, potentially increasing its resale value.
  • Custom Ventilation: With a sunroof, you have more control over the ventilation in your car. It can provide a cool breeze on warmer days without the wind turbulence of open side windows.
  • Improved Driving Enjoyment: There is a certain pleasure that comes with the open-air feeling of a sunroof. Even daily commutes can feel more enjoyable.
  • Energy Efficiency: Allowing sunlight to naturally warm your car and using a skylight can reduce energy consumption on chilly mornings.

Upgrading your car with window tints is not only about enhancing its aesthetic appeal; it’s a functional move that offers a range of benefits as you welcome spring. You invest in comfort, privacy, and protection when installing high-quality window tints. Here’s how:

  • UV Protection: Window tints can block up to 99% of the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays, leading to skin cancer and deteriorating your car’s interior fabrics and materials.
  • Heat Reduction: Tinting your car windows can significantly reduce the heat buildup inside your vehicle, making your spring drives much more pleasant and reducing the reliance on air conditioning, improving fuel efficiency.
  • Glare Reduction: Squinting against the bright spring sun can be a thing of the past. Window tints cut down on glare, making it safer and more comfortable to drive.
  • Privacy and Security: Darker tints can obscure the view into your vehicle, providing an extra layer of privacy for you and security for your valuables.
  • Shatter Resistance: In the event of an accident, window tints can help hold shattered glass together, potentially reducing injuries from flying glass.

 

When selecting window tints, consider the legal tint limits in your area, as they vary by state and region. It’s crucial to adhere to these regulations to avoid fines and ensure your visibility isn’t compromised, especially when driving at night.

Find a professional installer who can help you choose the right type of tint for your car and guarantee a sleek, bubble-free application. A quality installation will ensure your tints last longer and remain effective against the elements. This spring, elevate your journey and your vehicle’s look with the correct window tints—your ride will look cooler, and you’ll feel cooler, too.

3.) PPF

As you gear up for spring and consider revamping your car’s exterior, Paint Protection Film (PPF) should be at the top of your list, especially if preserving your vehicle’s paint job is a priority. PPF is a clear, durable film applied to the exterior of your car to protect the paint from scratches, stone chips, bird droppings, and UV rays, which are notably harsher as the seasons change.

Imagine PPF as a nearly invisible shield that helps maintain the pristine look of your car’s paint. Its self-healing properties allow minor scratches and swirl marks to disappear with heat exposure, such as sunlight or warm water.

Here are the advantages of PPF for your vehicle:

  • Preserves Paint Finish: It maintains the luster of your car’s paint by creating a barrier against various damaging elements.
  • Cost-Effective: Long-term, it reduces the need for touch-ups and repainting, saving you money.
  • Boosts Resale Value: A well-maintained exterior could produce a higher resale price.
  • Customizable: PPF can be applied to the entire vehicle or high-impact areas like the front bumper, hood, and side mirrors.

 

Installation of PPF should be handled by professionals at reputable auto shops like Auto Trim Design, ensuring a bubble-free and seamless application that contours perfectly to your car’s design.

It’s essential to note that while PPF is long-lasting, it isn’t permanent. Depending on the quality of the film and the conditions it’s exposed to, it typically lasts between 5 to 10 years.

PPF may be an investment. Still, it’s a strategic one that keeps your car looking newer for longer and reduces maintenance costs, making it an excellent choice for an essential car exterior upgrade this spring.

4.) Remote Start

Remember the convenience and comfort of a remote start system when upgrading your car for spring. Imagine stepping into a pre-cooled or warmed-up car that’s to your preference, especially when the weather is unpredictable.

Benefits of a Remote Start System:

  • Comfort: Activate your car’s climate control system from afar, ensuring a comfortable cabin temperature before opening the door.
  • Convenience: Start your car inside your home or office, saving you time on busy mornings.
  • Safety: Pre-starting your car in winter can help de-ice the windshield and windows, improving visibility.
  • Engine Care: Allows your engine to warm up before driving, which can prolong engine life by ensuring proper lubrication.
  • Increased Resale Value: Cars with added features like remote start are often more attractive to buyers.

Selecting the Right System

  • Range: Ensure your remote start has sufficient range for your typical use-case scenarios.
  • Features: Some systems offer keyless entry or security features alongside remote start.
  • Smartphone Integration: For ultimate convenience, consider a system with a smartphone app, allowing you to start your car from virtually anywhere.
  • Professional Installation: Have your remote start system installed by professionals, like those at Auto Trim Design, to ensure it’s done correctly and doesn’t void any warranties.

 

As you’re making your list of car upgrades this spring, remember that a remote start system is about more than just comfort—making your daily routine smoother, ensuring your safety, and taking care of your vehicle. It’s a wise investment that pays off in convenience every day.

5.) Hitches

Spring is the perfect time for the upcoming travel and adventure season. If road trips or outdoor excursions are on your agenda, equipping your car with the right hitch is critical. Here are some tips to ensure you select and install the perfect hitch for your springtime adventures:

  • Assess Your Needs: Determine the towing capacity needed based on what you plan to haul, whether a trailer, boat, or bike rack. Ensure the hitch you choose matches your vehicle’s maximum towing capacity.
  • Choose the Right Type:
    • Receiver Hitch: The most common type, perfect for various towing needs.
    • 5th Wheel Hitch: Ideal for heavy-duty towing, like large campers.
    • Gooseneck Hitch: Suited for hauling livestock or large trailers with greater stability.
  • Consider Towing Accessories:
    • Towing mirrors for better visibility.
    • Brake controllers for trailers with electric brakes.
    • Hitch locks for security.
  • Professional Installation: It is generally advised to install your hitch professionally to ensure it’s mounted correctly and safely.
  • Regular Inspections and Maintenance: Even after installation, check your hitch for rust, wear and tear, or any other damage that could compromise its integrity.

6.) Leather Seats

As the weather shifts into warmer spring months, upgrading your vehicle with leather seats can introduce comfort and sophistication that fabric seats simply can’t match. You may also consider this an aesthetic upgrade that potentially increases the resale value of your car. Here’s why leather seats should be on your list of essential car exterior upgrades this spring:

  • Durability: Leather seats are known for their durability and resistance to wear and tear compared to fabric seats. They can be an excellent long-term investment for your automobile’s interior.
  • Ease of Cleaning: Springtime can bring rain and mud, and leather seats offer the advantage of being easier to clean. A simple wipe-down can remove most surface dirt and debris without much hassle.
  • Comfort: Leather seats tend to be more comfortable over time. They mold to the shape of your body, providing a more personalized seating experience.
  • Resale Value: Cars with leather interiors generally hold their value better. Potential buyers often view leather as a premium option, making your vehicle more desirable.
  • Climate Consideration: With the advent of modern technology, options like ventilated or perforated leather seats can offer you comfort even during warmer days by allowing air to circulate more effectively.

 

Remember, while choosing to upgrade to leather seats, consider the color and grade of leather as it can affect how the seats will fare under direct sunlight – a factor to be mindful of, especially in spring and summer. Ensure proper maintenance with conditioners that protect the leather from UV rays to keep your seats looking great.

7.) Dashcams

As you spruce up your car exterior for spring, pay attention to adding a dashcam. Dashcams aren’t just another gadget but an essential tool for multiple purposes. Here’s why you should consider installing one:

  • Accident Evidence: In the event of a collision, a dashcam provides irrefutable proof of what happened. It captures real-time footage that can be crucial when determining fault.
  • Security: Dashcams act as a deterrent to thieves and vandals when your car is parked. Some models even come with parking mode features, which allow the camera to record any activity around your vehicle while it’s turned off.
  • Insurance Discounts: Many insurance companies appreciate the added security that dashcams provide and may offer discounts on your premiums.
  • Road Trip Memories: Beyond safety and security, dashcams can be used to record scenic drives and capture memories on the road.

 

When selecting a dashcam for your car, consider the following features:

  • Resolution: High-definition (1080p or higher) ensures your footage is clear and detailed.
  • Loop Recording: This feature lets the camera overwrite the oldest files automatically, so you don’t have to worry about running out of storage space.
  • Impact Sensor: A built-in G-sensor will lock the current recording from being overwritten if it detects an impact.
  • Night Vision: Look for a dashcam with good low-light performance to record clear footage regardless of the time of day or night.

 

Remember that a quality installation is just as important as the dashcam itself. You’ll want the camera mounted optimally to maximize the field of view without obstructing your sightlines. Consider installing it professionally to ensure it’s integrated seamlessly with your car’s power system and aesthetics. With a dashcam, you’ll drive into the spring and beyond with an added sense of security and peace of mind.

8.) Navigation Systems

Upgrading your car’s navigation system is a practical move for enhancing your driving experience and improving your safety on the road. As the seasons change and you gear up for spring adventures, consider the benefits of having a state-of-the-art navigation system at your service.

  • Integrated GPS – Modern navigation systems offer real-time GPS tracking with precise maps and turn-by-turn directions. This means less time getting lost and more time enjoying the open road. You can choose systems that integrate with your vehicle’s display for a seamless experience.
  • Traffic Alerts – Many advanced navigation systems include live traffic updates. These help you avoid congestion and suggest alternate routes, saving you time and stress. Remember, this feature is especially handy during the busy spring season when road trips are more common.
  • Voice Control – Voice control capabilities allow you to interact with your navigation system without taking your hands off the wheel. This feature can significantly increase your safety by reducing distractions while driving.
  • Connectivity – Modern systems often include Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, which means you can easily sync your smartphone or other devices. This connectivity allows for additional functionality, like streaming music or hands-free calling, further improving the usability of your navigation system.
  • Updates and Customization – Look for a system that offers easy updates to ensure you always have the latest maps. Customization options can also enhance usability, allowing you to save favorite destinations or set reminders for regular maintenance or seasonal changes, like switching to your summer tires.

9.) Entertainment Systems

When enhancing your car’s exterior for spring, don’t overlook the impact of a state-of-the-art entertainment system on your overall driving experience. The crisp spring air isn’t the only thing that can invigorate your senses; a high-quality audio system can transform your car into a moving concert hall.

Features to consider when upgrading your entertainment system include:

  • High-Resolution Touchscreens: A bold and clear display lets you easily control your music and navigation. Opt for a larger screen size for better readability and a more sophisticated feel.
  • Premium Sound Quality: Invest in a system with advanced speakers, subwoofers, and amplifiers. Look for features like surround sound to immerse yourself in your favorite tunes fully.
  • Connectivity Options: Ensure your system supports Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, or Android Auto for seamless integration.
  • Customizable Audio Settings: Fine-tune your music with equalizers and sound settings that can adjust to your particular taste and music genre.
  • Video Playback: For those times when you are parked and waiting, video playback can be a delightful feature, especially if you frequently travel with passengers.
  • Voice Command Features: Keep your hands on the wheel with a system that recognizes your voice for commands, making selecting your entertainment options safer and more convenient.

Remember, not only does an upgraded entertainment system enrich your driving pleasure, but it also adds value to your vehicle. As you roll down the windows to let in the fresh air this spring, do so with a soundtrack that uplifts every journey. Whether cruising city streets or embarking on a spring road trip, let your car’s entertainment system set the mood for unforgettable memories.

The Finishing Touches: How to Choose Exterior Accessories That Compliment Upgrades

When you’ve invested in upgrades such as sunroofs, window tints, and paint protection films (PPF), the next step is to select exterior accessories that enhance and complement these features.

  • Match or Contrast: Consider the color of your car and the upgrades you’ve made. For example, if you’ve gone for a sleek, dark window tint, chrome trim adds a striking contrast, while black accessories offer a more seamless and understated look.
  • Functional Aesthetics: Accessories should look good and serve a purpose. For instance, select rain guards that match your window tints; they will not only keep rain out but also maintain the cohesive appearance of your windows.
  • Material Matters: Think about the longevity and durability of the materials. If you live in an area with harsh weather conditions, opt for UV-resistant materials to complement your PPF and protect your car from sun damage.
  • Style Consistency: Keep the style consistent across all accessories. If your car has a sporty look, select streamlined and modern accessories. If it’s more classic, choose subtle accessories and enhance the car’s elegance.
  • Quality Brands: Invest in accessories from reputable brands to ensure compatibility with the upgrades already made to your vehicle. High-quality products will align better with your PPF or window tints, ensuring a professional finish.
  • Professional Insight: Seek advice from auto customization experts. They can provide valuable insights on which products complement specific upgrades and may even suggest options you still need to consider.

Ready for the Road – Embracing the Spring with Your Upgraded Car

With the array of car exterior upgrades available, your vehicle is set to not only look its best but to also deliver enhanced performance and comfort as you usher in the warmer, refreshing months of spring. Whether you’ve opted for a sleek sunroof to enjoy the natural light and open sky, applied window tint to shield yourself from the sun’s glare while preserving your privacy, or invested in Paint Protection Film (PPF) to guard your car’s finish against the elements, these improvements bring a blend of aesthetic appeal and practical benefits.

Ready to give your vehicle a spring makeover? Look no further than Auto Trim Design, your trusted experts in auto customization! Whether you dream of a sleek sunroof, high-quality window tints, durable Paint Protection Film (PPF), or any other upgrade to enhance your driving experience, our team has you covered.

Take advantage of the opportunity to elevate your ride for the spring season. Contact us today at 425-541-1168 to schedule a consultation and explore our wide range of services. Let’s transform your car into a stylish and functional masterpiece ready to embrace the future. Drive with confidence and style – choose Auto Trim Design for your car makeover needs. Reach out now, and let’s make your automotive dreams a reality!

FAQ's

At Auto Trim Design, we specialize in customizing various vehicles, including cars, trucks, SUVs, vans, and even recreational vehicles (RVs). Whether you have a compact sedan or a rugged off-road vehicle, we have the expertise to enhance its appearance and functionality according to your preferences.

The timeframe for completing a car makeover can vary depending on the specific upgrades you choose and the complexity of the installation process. Simple upgrades like window tints or dashcam installations can be completed within a few hours to a day. More extensive upgrades, such as sunroof installations or leather seat upgrades, may take a few days to complete. Our team will provide you with a detailed timeline during your consultation.

Yes, we stand behind the quality of our products and installations. Many of the products we offer come with manufacturer warranties, and we also provide our installation warranty to ensure your satisfaction and peace of mind. Be sure to ask our team about the specific warranties applicable to the upgrades you’re interested in.

Absolutely! Our experienced professionals are here to guide you through the selection process. We’ll take the time to understand your preferences, budget, and vehicle specifications to recommend upgrades that best suit your needs and lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for aesthetic enhancements, functional upgrades, or both, we’ll help you make informed decisions.

We provide our customers with detailed maintenance guidelines for the upgrades installed by our team. While many of our products require minimal maintenance, such as regular cleaning, some may benefit from occasional inspections or treatments to ensure longevity and optimal performance. Our team will provide all the necessary information and recommendations to keep your vehicle looking and performing its best for years.