Smiley face antenna ball: $1.74. License plate frame: $5. Fuzzy steering wheel cover: $6.88. Having the most pimped-out ride in town: Priceless!
College students are all too familiar with owning a car on a tight budget. Duct tape holds stuffing in the seats, and staples and superglue are all that keep a drooping ceiling interior from blanketing the passengers below. Dented fenders and chipping paint are also trademarks of the worn-out student vehicle. What is one to do with a bucket of rust and no cash for full-blown customization? A little thrift and creativity can keep any rider in style.
The rearview mirror is the perfect place to dangle tassels, air fresheners, and Mardi Gras beads. Those in search of something more creative might hang car chimes, small ornaments that ring out without distraction during the ride. Fuzzy dice swinging from the rearview mirror achieve a retro look and are commonly believed to be a popular accessory during the 1950s. However, according to an article in August 1999 issue of The Dashboard, a publication of the Central Oklahoma Classic Chevy Club, their presence in the automobile may be a more recent trend.
"I could be wrong, but I don't recall anyone having fuzzy dice hanging from his mirror," Albert Drake, author of the article said. "I checked out some old ads and could not find anyone selling fuzzy dice."
Even so, the article said that the dice can be found in about 75 percent of 1950s custom classic cars in shows today. They range from about $4-10 and are available online and at automobile accessory stores. Those preferring to make their own dice can find a list of materials, a downloadable pattern, and do-it-yourself directions are available at http://www.tackyliving.com/crafts/fuzzyDice.html.
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Some choose to personalize their cars with a theme. To go Hawaiian, put leis around the rearview mirror and palm tree decals on the windows. Hula dancer figurines can sway amidst faux flowers on the dash, and a tropically scented air freshener will complete the sense of relaxation on the beach. For those who favor a more wild approach, animal print accessories are abundant. Zebra-striped steering wheel covers, leopard mirror wraps, cow-spotted seat covers and cheetah print pillows will transform the boring to exotic for a reasonable cost. Floor mats and other accessories with flames are also an exciting option. Holidays are another focus for automobile decor. Valentine's and St. Patrick's days are easily represented with window clings, and Christmas tree ornaments and plastic Easter eggs can hang from the rearview mirror. Attach an American flag outside the car to flap in the breeze on the way to the Fourth of July picnic, and at Halloween put candy in cup holders and other open compartments.
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Like lights? For less than $100, neon products brighten up both the inside and outside of a car. Underbody lights will illuminate the ground below with changing colors, some even in accordance with the music playing on the car's stereo system. Interior lights offer the appearance of rolling lava or lightning effects in a tube. Glowing frames also give the license plate an extra kick.
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If visual appeal is not enough, new audio components might be in line. Radio and CD players typically start at around $50 and increase in price depending upon brand name, amplifier power, and additional features. Those who dislike changing CDs while driving can install CD changers that hold multiple discs at a time. Unsatisfactory sound systems are replaceable with a wide variety of speakers, from very low price ranges and sizes to the most expensive subwoofers that will enhance the lowest bass frequencies. Amplifiers can be purchased separately from the stereo system, as well as equalizers that break the frequency spectrum into "bands" for greater control of sound.-á
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Even the owners with thin wallets and car older than themselves can have pimp rides with resourcefulness and know-how. Low-cost accessories wait at home and at discount stores for anyone willing to look for them.
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