As a new driver in the UK, personalising and equipping your car with the right accessories can enhance safety, convenience, and confidence on the road. However, choosing car accessories requires careful consideration—some items are essential for compliance with UK seatbelt and car safety rules, while others might be helpful learning tools or convenient additions. This comprehensive guide helps you navigate what you truly need, what’s simply nice to have, and what to avoid. We’ll also connect these choices to your broader driving journey, whether you’re studying for your UK Driving Theory Test, searching for how to find the cheapest driving instructor near me, or taking lessons with a driving school in Ilford.
For expert advice on becoming a safe, confident driver, contact Driving Academy Ltd at 📞 07399 696344, email 📧 drivingacademyltd@gmail.com, or visit 📍 101 Whitechapel High Street, London, E1 7RA.
Essential Safety & Legal Accessories (The Must-Haves)
These items are not optional—they are crucial for legal compliance and safety.
1. L Plates (or D Plates in Wales)
If you’re driving on a provisional licence, these are your most important accessory.
- Legal Requirement: You must display an L plate (or D plate in Wales) on the front and rear of the vehicle.
- Choosing Right: They must be the official size (178mm x 178mm) with a red ‘L’ on a white background. Ensure they are durable and properly fixed to be clearly visible, not flapping or faded.
2. First Aid Kit and Warning Triangle
While not a strict legal requirement for cars in the UK, they are highly recommended and essential for safety.
- Purpose: To administer basic first aid at the scene of an incident and to warn other traffic if you break down.
- Choosing Right: Look for a BS8599-1 compliant first aid kit designed for vehicles. A robust, reflective warning triangle is a wise investment.
3. High-Visibility Vest or Jacket
Another critical safety item, especially if you might need to exit your vehicle on a road.
- Purpose: To ensure you are seen by other road users in low-light conditions or if broken down.
- Choosing Right: Keep at least one within easy reach of the driver’s seat (not in the boot). It should comply with EN ISO 20471 standard.
Highly Recommended Practical Accessories
These accessories solve common problems and make driving more manageable, especially for learners and new drivers.
4. Phone Holder and Charger
Keeping your phone secure and charged is vital for navigation and emergencies, but safety is paramount.
- Purpose: To use navigation apps legally (hands-free) and ensure your phone doesn’t become a dangerous projectile.
- Choosing Right & Legal: Select a sturdy, dashboard or vent-mounted holder that doesn’t obstruct airbags or your view. Crucially, you must not hold or interact with your phone while driving. Set up navigation before you set off.
5. Puncture Repair Kit and Portable Tyre Inflator
A flat tyre is one of the most common breakdown causes.
- Purpose: To get you safely to a garage for a proper repair without waiting for recovery.
- Choosing Right: A quality sealant/inflator kit can be a temporary fix for minor punctures. A digital portable inflator is more reliable than old-fashioned foot pumps.
6. Interior Sun Visor
Often overlooked but incredibly useful for protecting your car’s interior and keeping it cooler.
- Purpose: To reduce heat in summer, prevent dashboard cracking, and reduce frost in winter.
- Choosing Right: A foldable reflective visor that fits your windscreen. This small item can make a big difference to comfort.
Accessories for Learner Drivers
If you are currently taking lessons or have just passed, these items can support your ongoing learning.
7. ‘P’ Plates (Probationary Plates)
Optional but highly recommended for the first 6-12 months after passing your test.
- Purpose: To politely inform other drivers that you are newly qualified, which can encourage patience and give you more space.
- Note: These are different from L plates. You are not required to display them, but they can reduce stress.
8. Reversing Camera or Sensors
While many modern cars have these fitted, if yours doesn’t, they are a worthwhile investment.
- Purpose: To significantly improve spatial awareness and safety during reversing manoeuvres and parking.
- Choosing Right: Professional installation is recommended for wired systems. Wireless kits are easier to fit but ensure reliable connectivity.
Accessories to Think Twice About
Some popular accessories can be problematic or even illegal.
- Dash Cams: While excellent for security and insurance, they must be correctly positioned so as not to obstruct the driver’s field of view. The same rule applies to any accessory mounted on the windscreen.
- Steering Wheel Covers: Can interfere with the grip or operation of the steering wheel. If fitted, they must be secure and not likely to slip.
- Non-Approved Window Tints: Front side windows and the windscreen must let at least 70% of light through. Illegal tints can lead to fines and failure of your MOT.
- Satellite Navigation Systems: If used, they must be securely mounted and not obstruct your view. Program your destination before you drive.
The Connection to Your Driving Journey
Link to UK Seatbelt and Car Safety Rules
Every accessory you add must never compromise the primary safety systems of the car. They must not:
- Interfere with airbag deployment (e.g., bad dash cam placement).
- Obscure your view of the road or mirrors.
- Impair your ability to operate the controls safely.
- Contravene Construction and Use Regulations (e.g., illegal tints).
Link to Driving Tests and Lessons
When taking your driving test in a car with accessories:
- The examiner will expect a clear, unobstructed view from all windows and mirrors.
- Any dash cam or similar must not record audio inside the car during the test without the examiner’s explicit consent.
- Your driving school in Ilford will ensure the tuition car meets all legal requirements, so you learn in a properly equipped vehicle.
Smart Spending: Accessories vs. Lessons
When budgeting, prioritise your investment. A few hours of professional tuition with a good instructor from a reputable driving academy ltd will do more for your long-term safety and confidence than any accessory. If you’re searching for how to find the cheapest driving instructor near me, remember that the right instructor is a valuable investment in your skills, not just an expense.
FAQs on Car Accessories
Q1: Are fluffy dice or air fresheners illegal to hang from my mirror?
A: While not specifically illegal, if they obstruct your view of the road, a police officer could penalise you for driving without due care and attention. It’s best to avoid them.
Q2: I’ve just passed. Do I need to remove my L plates?
A: Yes, immediately. It is illegal to display L plates if you are not supervising a learner driver. You can replace them with optional green ‘P’ plates.
Q3: Can I use my phone in a holder to change music while driving?
A: No. The law prohibits holding or using a handheld device while driving. This includes tapping the screen for any reason. You must be parked safely to interact with it.
Q4: Does a driving school provide any of these accessories?
A: A professional driving school will provide the legally required L plates. Their car should also be equipped with dual controls and be mechanically sound, which are the most important “accessories” for learning.
Q5: Where’s the best place to buy reliable car accessories?
A: Reputable motor retailers, halfords, or trusted online specialists. Avoid the cheapest options for critical safety items like tyre repair kits.
Q6: Do these tips help with finding a good instructor?
A: They complement each other. A good instructor, whether found by searching for how to find the cheapest driving instructor near me or through reputation, will teach you about vehicle safety and preparation—knowledge you use when choosing accessories.
Conclusion: Accessorise Wisely, Drive Safely
Choosing car accessories is about enhancing your safety, compliance, and comfort without creating distractions or hazards. Always prioritise items that help you comply with UK seatbelt and car safety rules and support your development as a driver.
Remember, the most valuable investment you can make is in your own skills and knowledge. Professional instruction from a trusted provider like Driving Academy Ltd provides the foundation upon which all else is built.
Ready to build your driving skills on a solid foundation? Contact us for professional, structured driving lessons.
📞 07399 696344 | 📧 drivingacademyltd@gmail.com | 📍 101 Whitechapel High Street, London, E1 7RA