Exterior Car Accessories help you protect, carry, and customize your vehicle’s exterior for daily driving and off‑road use. From car covers and paint protection film to roof racks, bike racks, tow hitches, mud flaps, running boards, window deflectors, grille guards, and light bars, these upgrades add durability, capability, and curb appeal. The right automotive exterior accessories can shield paint from sun, grit, and salt, expand cargo space for kayaks or skis, improve step‑in access to tall trucks and SUVs, and boost visibility with compliant auxiliary lighting.

Choose accessories with vehicle‑specific fitment or universal designs. Prioritize materials that survive harsh weather: stainless steel and aluminum for corrosion resistance, powder‑coated finishes, UV‑stable ABS or TPE, and automotive‑grade 3M adhesives. Verify ratings: roof dynamic load limits, hitch class and tongue weight, and IP ratings for light bars. Check local laws for lighting color, DOT approval, license plate visibility, and bumper or fender coverage.

Popular exterior upgrades:
- Car covers and windshield shades to reduce UV damage and dust
- Roof racks, crossbars, cargo boxes, and kayak/bike mounts for adventure gear
- Tow hitches, wiring, and recovery points for towing and accessories
- Running boards, side steps, and rock sliders for safer entry and rocker protection
- Mud flaps and splash guards to cut spray and preserve paint
- Bug deflectors and window deflectors for quieter, cleaner airflow
- Grille guards, bull bars, and skid plates for front‑end protection
- License plate frames, mirror caps, trim, and decals for style changes

Installation is often DIY‑friendly with a socket set, torque wrench, trim tools, a drill for some brackets, and surface prep (isopropyl alcohol, adhesion promoter). Use anti‑seize on stainless hardware, apply dielectric grease on connectors, and torque fasteners to spec. Maintain by rinsing road salt, tightening hardware seasonally, lubricating hinges, and inspecting seals and coatings.