Nov 30, 2016
Roof racks and roof boxes are a great way to extend your storage space and carry extra objects from A to B using your vehicle.
Long gone are the days when a roof rack simply meant a couple of bars to which objects could be untidily and haphazardly strapped. There are now all kinds of roof-mountable options for cars of all sizes – whether you require something as a permanent fixture, or merely for one-off journeys.
We’ve scoured the web for the useful and well-reviewed options currently available. If you need to transport something on the roof of your car, you should find just the thing to help on our list below.
Before you begin, it’s important to familiarise yourself with what features your vehicle may already have to facilitate the use of roof-mounted accessories. For example, many estate cars and MPVs have roof rails already present. As such, make sure you know what you need before purchase, to avoid buying more (or less) than you need.
1. One for cars with existing rails
If you have a car that already has rails on it’s roof, these inexpensive Aero Roof Bars are just the thing to form the foundation of a simple yet sturdy roof rack.
An Amazon best seller, they are road safe for loads of up to 60kgs – the equivalent of three heavy suitcases, and therefore more than up to the job of carrying roof boxes or cycle carriers.
Despite the low price, many reviewers describe them as sturdy and easy to fit.
Positives:
- Low cost.
- Fit most cars (but do check your measurements!)
- Perfect for boxes and cycle carriers.
Negatives:
- Not compatitble with T-Track fitting accessories.
2. One for cars without existing rails
If your car’s not pre-fitted for roof accessories, it’s not a problem. These Summit bars are designed for cars without factory roof rails, and don’t cost much more than the option above.
The fixings supplied are compatible with a vast range of cars, but you are advised to check before ordering. There’s a detailed list available online.
This is a versatile product, and owners report an easy installation experience.
Positives:
- Requires no existing fittings.
- Perfect for boxes and bike carriers.
- Inexpensive.
Negatives:
- Not compatible with all cars – essential to check.
3. A high capacity roof box for all purposes
THULE are a well-known name in car accessories, and while there are cheaper options available, you tend to get what you pay for!
This roof box is sleek, but has a large 320 litre capacity. It can hold up to 50kg and weighs just 10kg on its own. It’s lockable and will fit onto almost any roof bars.
Best of all, it loads from the rear, which makes it so much more practical in day to day use than something you have to climb up to or lift up and down. Perfect for occasional AND every day use.
Positives:
- Wide compatibility.
- Easy to load.
- UV protection to prevent fading.
Negatives:
- Cheaper options available.
4. A portable option
This is another high-quality option from THULE, but very different to the last. Designed to be highly portable, this roof box / bag can be easily removed and stowed, with no tools required.
Camping is the first use that springs to mind for this, but with a 50kg maximum load it can hold plenty of goods of all kinds. It fits both aero and square bars.
Just like it’s rigid cousin above, it allows for easy access to the contents, with both side and rear opening possible.
Positives:
- Highly portable, yet sturdy.
- High capacity.
- Great reviews.
Negatives:
5. One for the cyclists
One of the most popular reasons to install roof racks / bars is to carry cycles, so we finish this round up with a twin-pack of roof carriers for bikes.
In case you’re wondering why we’re featuring yet another THULE product, we’re doing so because we found one big thing in common with all the cheaper roof-mount cycle carriers out there – a host of bad reports and negative reviews. These are almost universally praised and well-regarded – and if you’re someone who cares about cycling you probably have a steed you wouldn’t want to trust to an inferior product.
These are sturdy, lockable, and available in packs of one, two and three.
Positives:
Negatives:
- More expensive than some other (inferior) options.
Three Essential Tips!
If you’re mounting anything to your car roof, ignore the following tips at your peril!
- While many roof accessories are easy to self-install, don’t leave things to chance if you’re not comfortable with such jobs – the dangers of incorrect installation are simply too great.
- Always remember when you have something mounted to your roof making your car higher – it seems obvious but people do sometimes forget for bridges and tunnels!
- Always read instructions, and stay on the right side of maximum loading guidlines.
IMAGE CREDIT: Wikimedia Commons
Nov 9, 2016
Unless you’re a motoring enthusiast, car cleaning is probably more of a chore than a pleasure. Either way, this list of car cleaning accessories provides you with plenty of options to make it easier to keep your vehicle spick and span.
We’ve made a point of paying attention to the inside of your car as well as the outside. If you do have a tendency to let your car become cluttered and grubby (and some of the team here at PetrolPrices.com are occasionally guilty of that!) a thorough internal clean can make it feel like you’re sitting in a brand new vehicle. As such, we’ve included a few items to help you give the interior a decent overhaul.
With a bit of effort, and the help of some of these car cleaning accessories, you can make your car feel like it’s just had a professional valet. Do this before a long road trip, and you’ll enjoy the journey in far more comfort.
1. One for the interior
If you’ve ever tried to drag your household vacuum cleaner outside to clean the car, you’ll know it can prove to be an awkward exercise!
This Black and Decker car vacuum plugs into the cigarette lighter socket, and comes with an upholstery brush and various other attachments to help you get down into all the cracks and crevices that are always a magnet for crumbs.
While there are cheaper car vacuums available, this is powerful and well-reviewed and comes with a two-year warranty.
Positives:
- Powerful.
- 12V powered.
- Several accessories included.
Negatives:
- Cheaper options are available.
2. One for the exterior
When we looked at car pressure washers for an earlier feature, this Kärcher model came out as the best all-rounder.
It comes with all the accessories you need to give the outside of your car a thorough clean, and isn’t too unwieldy to use comfortably.
It’s important to note that this pressure washer does require you to have access to a mains plug and a water source.
Finally, we should add that after our previous feature, some members commented that they’ve had issues with seals and delicate parts when using pressure washers to clean their vehicles. While we’ve had no personal experience of these problems (and such gadgets are marketed specifically for car cleaning) – we should say that if you’re concerned about this you may wish to proceed with caution.
Positives:
- Powerful despite its diminutive size.
- Full car cleaning kit included.
Negatives:
- Needs a tap and a mains power source.
3. One with a bit of everything!
If you fancy spending a Sunday morning giving your car a really thorough external clean, this is the perfect package to invest in. It’s complete and inexpensive, and even comes with a bucket!
The kit includes an all-in-one wash and wax solution, various sponges, pads and cloths, and a “bug shifter” for stubborn insect marks.
At this price, it’s also a perfect small gift for any car enthusiast in your life – or you could buy it for the children or grandchildren and bribe them to do the hard work!
Positives:
- Plenty of car cleaning products included.
- Great value.
Negatives:
- Better individual products out there for those willing to spend a little more.
4. One for a perfect finish
Auto Glym products are much-loved among car enthusiasts, and this pack, “The Collection,” contains an extensive selection for those who wish to get their car up to a “showroom shine.”
The products included are for both the inside and outside of the car and include shampoo, polish and tyre dressing. or the interior, you’ll find interior shampoo and glass polish. Sponges and cloths are included too.
Reviews are overwhelmingly great – and once again this would make a perfect (albeit more expensive) gift!
Positives:
- A huge selection of products.
- Fabulous reviews.
Negatives:
5. The Professional Option!
We end on a slightly more obscure option – but if you happen to have a Vax vacuum cleaner already, this can be a really cheap way to convert it into a fully fledged car interior cleaner.
Compatible with any Vax model, this kit contains multiple attachments specifically for car cleaning. If you’ve ever tried to use a conventional vacuum for car cleaning, you’ll probably appreciate the need for these. Particularly handy is the “flexi-crevice tool” – something absolutely essential for removing crumbs and debris.
If you have a Vax, this is well worth a look – it’s far less expensive than a dedicated car vacuum, and does the job just as well.
Positives:
- A great way to turn your home vacuum into a car cleaner.
- Inexpensive.
Negatives:
Oct 19, 2016
Car pressure washers are a great investment if you like to keep your car looking shiny and new. They allow you to do a “car wash quality” cleaning job wherever you are. In addition, it may just be the opinion of me, the writer of this roundup, but they’re rather fun to use too!
In this list of the five best car pressure washers available in the UK right now, I’ve identified a range of models at various prices levels. It’s been pleasing to see that manufacturers have also found ways around the need to be close to both a power and a water source in order to use a car pressure washer. Among my top five, you’ll find options without these requirements – so if you’re lacking a tap and / or a mains plug, you’ll still find one that works for you.
So, without further ado, here’s our roundup of five fantastic car pressure washers.
1. A Good “All-Rounder”
It’s a bit of a stretch to say there are any “household names” when it comes to car pressure washers, but Kärcher is as close as you’ll find.
This “compact” washer is described as “extremely powerful” by reviewers despite its diminutive size. The basic washer is available with a selection of different accessory sets. This example is specifically aimed at car and bike washing, and includes brushes for wheels and bodywork, as well as car shampoo.
Thanks to the power available, you’ll find it up to plenty of other cleaning tasks beyond cleaning your car, with all sorts of other accessories available for other uses.
Positives:
- Powerful yet compact.
- Well designed with accessory storage.
Negatives:
- DOES require access to both a tap and a power source.
2. A Truly Portable Car Pressure Washer
As mentioned above, in years gone by a mains plug and an external tap were once a must for car pressure washers, but this innovative option requires neither.
Obviously it does require a power source of some kind, but instead of plugging into the mains, you can take power from a 12V cigarette lighter socket. You can also fill the washer with water from anywhere you want – making for a pressure washer you can actually take anywhere with you.
It comes with lots of fixings and attachments, and boasts a 4.8 (out of five) rating on Amazon at the time of writing.
It’s also worth remembering that car washing isn’t the only use for this gadget. It’s also good for cleaning windows, or even as a camping shower!
Positives:
- Completely portable.
- 12V power.
- Very positive reviews.
Negatives:
- Carrying the weight of the water is unnecessary if you DO have an easy water source.
- Not as powerful as some mains powered alternatives.
3. Simple and Sturdy
If sturdy quality and a reputable brand name grab your intention more than a long list of bells and whistles, this well-priced Bosch model could be the washer for you.
It’s not marketed specifically as a car pressure washer, but will do the job admirably for small cars, as well as act as a perfect pressure cleaner for outside areas and items.
It is missing some of the features of other models listed here, but does come with a detergent nozzle as an included accessory.
Finally, the guarantee lasts for two years, rather than the one year offered by most other manufacturers. Be sure to register yours with Bosch to benefit from this.
Positives:
- Simple, no-frills washer.
- Powerful and effective.
- Long warranty.
Negatives:
- Best for smaller cars – choose a more high-end model for large vehicles.
4. A Budget Pressure Washer
This car pressure washer isn’t from a well-known brand, but it’s well-reviewed and packs in plenty of features for a low cost.
It does require connections to water and mains, but the five-metre cable gives you a fair bit of scope for reaching a mains outlet. The hose is five metres long also.
Like the Bosch model above, the warranty is for two years, and the washer comes with an adjustable nozzle and a free soap dispensing bottle – note that this isn’t that same as an integrated detergent nozzle, which IS included on some more expensive options.
Positives:
- Low cost.
- Long cable and hose.
Negatives:
- Requires nearby power and water source.
5. The Professional Option!
If you take your car pressure washers seriously, you’ll want to take a look at the options from UK manufacturer Nilfisk. If you own a motoring-related business, or are lucky enough to possess a fleet or collection of vehicles, you’ll want something truly up to the job – and you need look no further.
The model shown here is at the lower end of Nilfisk’s options, and described as being suitable for “semi-pro” users.
At the higher end of the range, you’ll find jet washes suitable for agricultural use that will beat the kind of washers available on garage forecourts.
While these pressure washers will be overkill for most, this is the company to take a look at if only the best will do!
Positives:
- The “Rolls Royce” option.
- Complex controls for a range of uses.
Negatives:
- Pricey.
- Unnecessarily sophisticated for day-to-day use.
Finishing Touches!
Once you’ve used one of these car pressure washers to clean your vehicle, you’ll want to wax it to bring it up to true showroom condition! Take a look at our roundup of the best car waxes for details or some top choices. You’ll also find an active comments section where members have compared notes on these products.
IMAGE CREDIT: Wikipedia
Oct 11, 2016
If you’re in the market for car bike carriers, you have a bewildering array of options to choose from.
However, if you’re a keen cyclist (or, indeed, a family of keen cyclists), investing in one of the car bike carriers suggested below could save you a fortune in the long run, and provide you with the opportunity to enjoy journeys on two wheels wherever you like, and not just in your local area.
While there are places to hire bikes all over the country (and beyond), prices are often steep – in some cases more expensive than decent car cycle carriers. Furthermore, there’s really no substitute for using the bike you’re familiar with. If you’re a true cyclist, a cheap hire bike just won’t cut it.
Below, you’ll find a range of cycle carriers for various situations and budgets. Read on to the end of the article for some general tips on using these carriers.
1. One for the Entire Family
If you’re going on a family bike ride, or even for a break at a holiday park, you’ll want to take all the family bikes with you. With space for four cycles, this Thule model should fit the bill.
Thule is a well-known and reliable name in this industry, and all of the company’s products come with a five-year warranty.
It’s important to note that like many car bike carriers, this model requires your vehicle to have a tow-bar. There are alternatives (see below), but if you’re going to transport your bikes regularly, it’s advisable to use this kind of carrier. This is somewhat akin to comparing a proper ISOFIX child seat with one that straps in with a seatbelt.
As well as carrying four bikes, this carrier tilts without removing the bikes to provide easy access to your boot.
Positives:
- Reliable brand.
- Accommodates up to four bikes.
- Good compatibility with car models.
Negatives:
- The cost of accessories can add up.
- Requires a tow-bar.
2. A Feature-Packed Car Cycle Carrier
If you’re really serious about cycling and prepared to “splash the cash” on something really special to help you transport your trusty steed(s), it’s worth taking a look at the Atera STRADA DL (and indeed the rest of the Atera range).
While these European-made car bike carriers are not at all cheap, they justify their price with build quality and functionality.
The STRADA DL operates using a drawer-style mechanism, making it really easy to open the boot without removing the bikes. The fact the drawer moves the bikes completely out of the way also vastly reduces the chance of scratching your car’s paintwork. It even includes rear foglights for when the carrier is in place.
Positives:
- Strong yet portable – easy to put in the boot when not in use.
- Easy boot access.
- Sliding mechanism.
Negatives:
- Toe-ball needed.
- Quite pricey.
3. An Option that Doesn’t Require a Tow-Bar
If your need to transport cycles around is less frequent, you may not feel able to justify the expense of a pricey tow-ball mounted option.
This Perruzo rack is considerably cheaper, but still allows you to transport three bikes. It’s easy to fit and users report that it’s “kind to paintwork.”
It does work best with adult mountain bikes, so you’ll definitely wish to look into compatibility if you want to transport childs’ bikes or “step-through” ladies’ cycles.
Positives:
- Excellent value.
- Still allows you to carry three bikes.
- Fits the majority of cars.
Negatives:
- Not great for kids’ or ladies’ bikes – but there is an alternative model available.
4. Roof-Mounted Car Bike Carrier
If you don’t want to mount your bike(s) to the rear of your car (perhaps you have a car with a rear mounted spare wheeel, or worry about visibility), then the only option is to mount on the roof instead.
Roof-mounted bike carriers are easy to find, but examples without really poor reviews are not! If you’re going to have one or more bikes mounted on your car roof you really don’t want to be taking any risks, which brings us to these Thule ProRide carriers.
While they may be more expensive than many of the roof-mounted models on offer, reviews are widely positive. These carriers fit to almost all roof-bars, and bikes are kept secure thanks to connections to both the wheels and the frame.
Positives:
- Lockable.
- Well-regarded by users.
- Sturdy.
Negatives:
- There are cheaper options out there.
- It’s necessary to constantly remember you have bikes on your roof!
5. Car Bike Carriers at a Lower Cost
Thule doesn’t only make high-end car bike carriers – this “XPress” model is very competitively priced, and doesn’t skimp on quality.
It only provides room for two cycles, so is a good option for singles or couples but not for the whole family. Moreover, it’s compatible with a wide range of cars – so long as you have a tow-bar. The only thing that will stop it easily attaching is if you have an SUV with a rear-mounted spare wheel.
The total weight limit is quite low at 30kg, so this is worth noting if you have a particularly heavy bike or an eBike. That said, most modern mountain or hybrid bikes should be plenty light enough.
Like all Thule products, the 970 XPress model comes with a five-year warranty.
Positives:
- A renowned brand at a low price.
- Easy to stow.
- Wide compatibility.
Negatives:
- Lowish weight limit.
- Accessories can add to the cost.
Tips for Using Car Bike Carriers
If you’ve not transported cycles attached to your car before, here are some handy tips to keep you and your property safe, and avoid any unnecessary damage.
- THINK SECURITY: Expensive cycles attached to the back of a car will provide a tempting target for thieves – so don’t make their job easy. Make sure your cycles are always secure, ideally with recommended lock accessories. Also activate any other security devices you may have, such as disc locks.
- REMEMBER YOUR ACCESSORIES: Some cycle carriers will be good to go from purchase, in other cases you may need some add-ons before you’re ready to go. You may wish / need to buy things like bungee cords and lock kits.
- CAREFUL WITH INSTALLATION: If you’re not 100% confident installing your car bike carriers, leave the job to a professional. Nobody wants bikes falling off your car while in motion.
- WATCH THE PAINTWORK: Be very careful while mounting and dismounting cycles on their carrier. A small slip can make a big scratch.
- OWN AN eBIKE? If so, please follow manufacturer’s recommendations regarding using cycle carriers. You may, for example, be required to remove the batteries before transporting them.
- CHECK YOUR WEIGHT: Car bike carriers always come with a maximum load limit. Make sure you don’t exceed this. If you have an electric bike or “vintage” style cycle, these often weigh considerably more than modern mountain bikes.
- TRAVELLING ABROAD? If so, make sure you find out if you need to pay extra on the ferry to account for your cycle carrier.
Oct 5, 2016
In car gadgets are not the exclusive preserve of “petrol heads” and techies. There are all kinds of inexpensive items out there that make day-to-day driving either less stressful and / or more enjoyable, and that’s what this round-up is all about.
All of the in car gadgets on this list are affordable and rather clever. We’ve done our best to largely steer away from gimmicks and point you in the direction of items that will genuinely improve your day-to-day motoring.
So, without further ado, here’s our round-up of the top five inexpensive in-car gadgets.
1. The Cheapest and Handiest of in Car Gadgets!
Often, the very simplest ideas are the best, and this in car gadget is a great example.
All it really is is a spring-loaded clip! However, it’s sturdy and flexible, and clips on to practically any air-vent (although you may wish to proceed with caution if your car has especially thin vents).
All you then have to do is attach your phone, letting the soft pliable clips grip it in place. It’s akin to the cheapest and most sensible “car kit” you could imagine for your smartphone, which earns it its place at the top of this list. It’s perfect for mounting your device to use it as a sat nav, or as a music player.
Positives:
- Simple; Cheap; Clever.
- Allows you to mount your phone in landscape or portrait mode.
- Grips on to practically any vent.
Negatives:
- Particularly thin vents may pose a problem.
2. An In Car Gadget for Music Lovers
While many modern cars now come with smartphone / iPhone connectors, they’re not as ubiquitous as one might think. They’re often not included in “base” car models, and there’s no guarantee they’ll be compatible with the phone you have.
The alternative is a device that allows you to send the sound from your phone (or music player) to a radio frequency. All you then have to do is tune your radio to the chosen frequency and you’ll hear your music. This is perfect for older cars without smartphone inputs, or cars with inputs that aren’t compatible with the device you want to listen to.
If you happened to play around with one of these in-car gadgets several years ago, you may be skeptical, but the quality has come on leaps and bounds in recent years. These items are very inexpensive, and FAR cheaper than paying for an aftermarket phone input for an older vehicle.
Positives:
- Allows you to plug in anything with a headphone jack and hear it through your car stereo.
- Far cheaper than a fitted “car kit.”
Negatives:
- It’s sometimes difficult to find an uncluttered FM waveband around busy cities.
3. One for Business People
If you’re a road-warrior or travelling salesperson, you probably find yourself needing to do a little work (or simply feed yourself) between meetings.
Rather than force you to contort yourself and twist towards the passenger seat, this steering wheel mounted makeshift desk gives you a proper ergonomic surface on which to work or dine.
It only takes seconds to hook it into place, and is also very easy to stow away whilst not in use. It’s one of those things you didn’t know you needed until you learned it existed! Just don’t try to use it while you’re on the move please!
Positives:
- An inexpensive way to turn your car into a mobile office.
- A good way to eat in the car without making a mess.
Negatives:
- Higher corners would improve the design – especially if you plan to eat soup!
4. A Great Gift for Drivers
This particular in car gadget looks like a baby-wipe container and isn’t strictly speaking a “gadget.”
However, it’s a perfect gift for someone who travels plenty of miles – if you can resist buying it for yourself!
It’s something akin to the kind of amenity kit you are handed if you travel business class on a plane – but for your car. Given the case design, it’s ironic that it does, in fact, contain a “lemon refreshing wipe,” but it also includes far more useful things too, including a pen, an ice scraper, a glowstick light, plastic gloves, and a hand warmer – along with a few other things.
Gimmicky as this may seem, it actually all makes a lot of sense, with the kit containing items that could prove hugely useful in the event of a car breakdown, or even a spillage from the kids in the back. As mentioned above, it would make a great present too.
Positives:
- Fantastic value.
- Surprisingly sensible contents.
Negatives:
- None – every car should have one of these in the glovebox!
5. A Touch of Luxury
It turns out you don’t have to buy a high-end prestige car to gain yourself a massage function for your seats!
This inexpensive in car gadget may not be quite as tidy as a factory-fitted massage seat, but it does the job, and includes five different massage modes and a heating facility.
At such a low price, this massage cushion is a “no-brainer” for anyone who feels uncomfortable during or after a long drive. It’s powered by the 12V cigarette lighter socket, but also comes with a mains plug so you can take it inside and use it there as well.
Positives:
- In-car massage at a very low price.
- Reported to be highly effective by multiple reviewers.
Negatives:
- May be considered a little scruffy by those who like to keep their cars immaculate.
