Your money blog: How to jazz up your car for under Dh1,100

Options include installing a hands-free kit for your smartphone for Dh155 or a reverse camera for Dh299.

Silvia Razgova / The National
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Concerned about the effects of sand and heat on your car? Sadly, aesthetics matter in the UAE and the harsh environment could take its toll on your motor's resale value. But you don't need a celebrity budget to make your 2008 Corolla a bit more fun to drive. The National has teamed up with CarSwitch with eight tips on how to pimp up your ride for under Dh1,000. All the trinkets are readily available in the UAE.

1. Upgrade with a hands-free kit

Get an instant transformation to modern tech with a hands-free kit for your smartphone from Jabra. You can then talk to your heart’s content on those long commutes to Abu Dhabi.

Cost: Dh155

2. Get a reverse camera

Reverse cams are your extra set of eyes – helping you avoid parking dings, or worse. Ensure it is professionally installed to stay safe.

Cost: Dh299 (incl. installation)

3. Install a smartphone holder

If a GPS navigation system doesn’t fit your budget, use a smartphone holder to use your mobile’s navigation app, such as this functional piece from Aukey.

Cost: Dh60

4. Get a wireless MP3 player

No bluetooth music streaming? Tired of wires? This stylish gadget plays all your MP3 files and streams them straight to your car’s speakers.

Cost: Dh50

5. Restore the lustre

Steam the upholstery and carpets, remove dirt from every nook and cranny and polish the exterior until it shines. Sounds like hard work, well several garages will do the toil for you with some, like CarBox.io or greensteamgcc.com, even coming to you.

Cost: Dh200 for steam cleaning, waxing and deep cleaning

6. Purify the air

Did you know your car can smell new again? Skip the professional services, and install this five-stage purifier that removes dust particles, cigarette odours and comes with a handy compass

Cost: Dh125

7. Spruce up the pedals

Pedals are almost always worn but you could get a slick replacement without breaking the bank.

Cost: Dh130

8. Never run out of space

This neat little pouch – available in brown or black leather – ensures you never ever run out of storage space. No more dropping your iPhone or money between the seats.

Cost: Dh73

pf@thenational.ae

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