Your Guide to Car Exterior Decor (2024)

Table of Contents
What Is Car Exterior Decor? Types of Car Exterior Decor Decals Shop Simply Perfect Baby Yoda Decals Stickers for Car, Window, Laptop, Luggage, Skateboard, Bike, Mandalorian Stickers, Decal Window Accessories (3 Pack) Shop Simply Perfect Baby Yoda Decals Stickers for Car, Window, Laptop, Luggage, Skateboard, Bike, Mandalorian Stickers, Decal Window Accessories (3 Pack) Graphicpals Graphicpals Custom Text Sticker Windshield Decal Window Car Truck & Boat Personalized Decal Vinyl Sticker 6 inch to 40 inch 8 Year high Performance cast Vinyl 3M Die Cut Vinyl JDM Graphicpals Graphicpals Custom Text Sticker Windshield Decal Window Car Truck & Boat Personalized Decal Vinyl Sticker 6 inch to 40 inch 8 Year high Performance cast Vinyl 3M Die Cut Vinyl JDM Antenna Balls Disney Disney Rose Gold Mickey and Rose Gold Minnie Antenna Topper Disney Disney Rose Gold Mickey and Rose Gold Minnie Antenna Topper License Plate Frames DreamDesignByYou DreamDesignByYou Personalized License Plate Frame Chrome Metal Custom Text Printed Car Licence Plate Cover 2 Hole for Auto Silver DreamDesignByYou DreamDesignByYou Personalized License Plate Frame Chrome Metal Custom Text Printed Car Licence Plate Cover 2 Hole for Auto Silver Mud Guards Ruien Ruien Car Mud Flaps Universal Fit Red Splash Guards (4 Pack) with 20 Pieces 6mm Fastener Rivet Clips Ruien Ruien Car Mud Flaps Universal Fit Red Splash Guards (4 Pack) with 20 Pieces 6mm Fastener Rivet Clips Bumper Protectors FH Group FH Group F16408 F16408BLACK Universal Fit Rear BumperButler Bumper Guard Protector New Improved 2020 Version FH Group FH Group F16408 F16408BLACK Universal Fit Rear BumperButler Bumper Guard Protector New Improved 2020 Version Roof Racks CargoLoc CargoLoc 2-Piece 52 CargoLoc CargoLoc 2-Piece 52 Wheel Caps PINGPING 4pcs 56mm of Cadillac Car Wheel Center Cap Cover Emblem Sticker + 4pcs Tire Valve Stem Caps and 1× Keychain Compatible with Cadillac Cars PINGPING 4pcs 56mm of Cadillac Car Wheel Center Cap Cover Emblem Sticker + 4pcs Tire Valve Stem Caps and 1× Keychain Compatible with Cadillac Cars McGard McGard 24157 Chrome Cone Seat Wheel Locks (M12 x 1.5 Thread Size) - Set of 4 McGard McGard 24157 Chrome Cone Seat Wheel Locks (M12 x 1.5 Thread Size) - Set of 4 LED Light Strips LEDCARE Car Headlight LED Strips, LEDCARE 24 Inch Exterior Car LED Strip Lights with Dreamcolor Chasing, Flexible Waterproof LED Daytime Running Light Strip, Wireless APP Controlled DRL, 2-Pack LEDCARE Car Headlight LED Strips, LEDCARE 24 Inch Exterior Car LED Strip Lights with Dreamcolor Chasing, Flexible Waterproof LED Daytime Running Light Strip, Wireless APP Controlled DRL, 2-Pack ETINAS Car Underglow Lights, Bluetooth Dream Color Chasing Strip Lights Kit, 6 PCS Waterproof Exterior Car Lights with APP Control , 12V 300 LEDs Underbody Lights for All Cars ETINAS Car Underglow Lights, Bluetooth Dream Color Chasing Strip Lights Kit, 6 PCS Waterproof Exterior Car Lights with APP Control , 12V 300 LEDs Underbody Lights for All Cars Car Covers How To Choose Car Exterior Decor How To Replace/Install Car Exterior Decor FAQs References

If you love your car but think it could use some upgrades, consider investing in some exterior decor. We've consulted the experts to find the best car exterior decor to make your vehicle look like new with items from Amazon and WeatherTech.

What Is Car Exterior Decor?

Car exterior decor is any accessory that you add to your car's exterior to enhance its appearance or provide a practical benefit. Here are some of the benefits that exterior accessories provide:

  • Improved Appearance: Adding an accessory is a relatively easy and inexpensive way to enhance your car's appearance.
  • Customization: When you find the right car exterior decor, you can customize your car to better suit your style. If you end up not liking how an accessory looks or you want to try something new, it's easy to remove and replace with something you like better.
  • Improved Performance: Some exterior accessories don't just make your car look better, they can also improve performance by enhancing your vehicle's aerodynamics.
  • Protection: Some exterior accessories do a great job of protecting your car from dents and scratches.
  • Increased Value: If you drive a popular make and model that you eventually plan on reselling, adding distinctive exterior decor can make it stand out among other cars on the market.

Types of Car Exterior Decor

There are all sorts of accessories you can add to your car's exterior:

Decals

Decals are a quick and easy way to decorate your car while expressing your personality. You can get decals featuring characters from your favorite movie or the mascot of your favorite team. If you use your car for business purposes, consider custom lettering to transform your vehicle into a mobile billboard. The best thing about decals is that they are inexpensive and easy to put on your vehicle or swap out for new decals.

Shop Simply Perfect Baby Yoda Decals Stickers for Car, Window, Laptop, Luggage, Skateboard, Bike, Mandalorian Stickers, Decal Window Accessories (3 Pack)

Your Guide to Car Exterior Decor (1)

Shop Simply Perfect Baby Yoda Decals Stickers for Car, Window, Laptop, Luggage, Skateboard, Bike, Mandalorian Stickers, Decal Window Accessories (3 Pack)

Graphicpals Graphicpals Custom Text Sticker Windshield Decal Window Car Truck & Boat Personalized Decal Vinyl Sticker 6 inch to 40 inch 8 Year high Performance cast Vinyl 3M Die Cut Vinyl JDM

Your Guide to Car Exterior Decor (2)

Graphicpals Graphicpals Custom Text Sticker Windshield Decal Window Car Truck & Boat Personalized Decal Vinyl Sticker 6 inch to 40 inch 8 Year high Performance cast Vinyl 3M Die Cut Vinyl JDM

Antenna Balls

Antenna balls are another fun and easy way for drivers to enhance their vehicles. As with decals, you can select an antenna ball that looks like a movie character, team mascot, or other pop icon.

Disney Disney Rose Gold Mickey and Rose Gold Minnie Antenna Topper

Your Guide to Car Exterior Decor (3)

License Plate Frames

Since you have to keep a license plate on your vehicle, why not jazz it up a little? You can add a license plate frame that dazzles or one that expresses you. With other license plate frames, you can add custom text.

DreamDesignByYou DreamDesignByYou Personalized License Plate Frame Chrome Metal Custom Text Printed Car Licence Plate Cover 2 Hole for Auto Silver

Your Guide to Car Exterior Decor (4)

DreamDesignByYou DreamDesignByYou Personalized License Plate Frame Chrome Metal Custom Text Printed Car Licence Plate Cover 2 Hole for Auto Silver

Mud Guards

Mud guards will enhance your car's appearance while protecting the paint job from dirt, gravel, and other debris. They come in an array of colors, so you can choose a set that matches or contrasts with your vehicle's exterior paint.

Ruien Ruien Car Mud Flaps Universal Fit Red Splash Guards (4 Pack) with 20 Pieces 6mm Fastener Rivet Clips

Your Guide to Car Exterior Decor (5)

Ruien Ruien Car Mud Flaps Universal Fit Red Splash Guards (4 Pack) with 20 Pieces 6mm Fastener Rivet Clips

Bumper Protectors

Bumper protectors are another stylish yet practical accessory that you can add to your car. Like mud guards, bumper protectors an excellent option if you frequently drive on poorly maintained roads. They can also protect your vehicle's bumpers from grocery carts and cars in busy parking lots.

FH Group FH Group F16408 F16408BLACK Universal Fit Rear BumperButler Bumper Guard Protector New Improved 2020 Version

Your Guide to Car Exterior Decor (6)

FH Group FH Group F16408 F16408BLACK Universal Fit Rear BumperButler Bumper Guard Protector New Improved 2020 Version

Now 28% Off

Roof Racks

If you enjoy outdoor activities like bicycling or kayaking, you deserve a roof rack that can handle your gear. Roof racks are also a great accessory if you like going on road trips and need room for extra luggage.

CargoLoc CargoLoc 2-Piece 52

Your Guide to Car Exterior Decor (7)

CargoLoc CargoLoc 2-Piece 52

Now 14% Off

Wheel Caps

Adding wheel caps or replacing your wheels can make your car look like an entirely new vehicle if you choose a different design or finish. You can choose from a variety of colors or find wheels that feature manufacturer logos for your particular make and model. To protect your new wheels, consider adding some dazzling chrome wheel locks.

PINGPING 4pcs 56mm of Cadillac Car Wheel Center Cap Cover Emblem Sticker + 4pcs Tire Valve Stem Caps and 1× Keychain Compatible with Cadillac Cars

Your Guide to Car Exterior Decor (8)

PINGPING 4pcs 56mm of Cadillac Car Wheel Center Cap Cover Emblem Sticker + 4pcs Tire Valve Stem Caps and 1× Keychain Compatible with Cadillac Cars

McGard McGard 24157 Chrome Cone Seat Wheel Locks (M12 x 1.5 Thread Size) - Set of 4

Your Guide to Car Exterior Decor (9)

McGard McGard 24157 Chrome Cone Seat Wheel Locks (M12 x 1.5 Thread Size) - Set of 4

LED Light Strips

If you really want to turn heads when you're driving, consider adding LED light strips to your car. You can find light strips in just about any color that you can wrap around your car or apply to your headlights. Underglow lights go underneath your car and produce a puddle of light that surrounds your vehicle with an eye-catching glow.

LEDCARE Car Headlight LED Strips, LEDCARE 24 Inch Exterior Car LED Strip Lights with Dreamcolor Chasing, Flexible Waterproof LED Daytime Running Light Strip, Wireless APP Controlled DRL, 2-Pack

Your Guide to Car Exterior Decor (10)

LEDCARE Car Headlight LED Strips, LEDCARE 24 Inch Exterior Car LED Strip Lights with Dreamcolor Chasing, Flexible Waterproof LED Daytime Running Light Strip, Wireless APP Controlled DRL, 2-Pack

Now 19% Off

ETINAS Car Underglow Lights, Bluetooth Dream Color Chasing Strip Lights Kit, 6 PCS Waterproof Exterior Car Lights with APP Control , 12V 300 LEDs Underbody Lights for All Cars

Your Guide to Car Exterior Decor (11)

ETINAS Car Underglow Lights, Bluetooth Dream Color Chasing Strip Lights Kit, 6 PCS Waterproof Exterior Car Lights with APP Control , 12V 300 LEDs Underbody Lights for All Cars

Car Covers

After you add new accessories to your car, you'll want to protect them from the elements with a car cover. A car cover is an excellent investment if you park your car outside all day while you're at work or if your residence doesn't have a garage. While universal car covers are available, a car cover designed for your car's make and model will provide optimal protection.

How To Choose Car Exterior Decor

When selecting exterior decor for your car, you'll want to consider the following:

  • Your Budget: Setting a budget before shopping for car exterior decor can keep you from overspending and over-accessorizing your car.
  • Your Goals: What do you want to accomplish by adding accessories to your car? Do you want to replace something that's worn out or do you want to give your vehicle a whole new look?
  • Your Lifestyle: If you're constantly on the road for travel or running errands, it's an excellent idea to add accessories to your vehicle to help you get the job done, such as roof racks and cargo baskets.
  • Colors and Design: If you want to use accessories to enhance your vehicle's appearance, it's essential to choose car exterior decor in colors and designs that complement your car instead of clashing with it.
  • Your Car's Make and Model: While some accessories are universal, others are only compatible with specific makes and models.
  • Safety: When safety is a major concern, it's worth investing in automotive accessories that can protect your car from theft and vandalism.
  • State Regulations: Depending on where you live, state laws may prohibit certain accessories. For example, some states regulate the use of license plate frames. Many states also place restrictions on what color lights you can put on your car and where you can place decals.
  • Vehicle Age: If you drive an older car and are thinking about trading it in for a newer model, you might not want to spend too much time or money on accessories.

How To Replace/Install Car Exterior Decor

Disclaimer: The guidelines in this story are general and not meant to replace instructions for your specific vehicle. Please consult your owner's manual or repair guide before attempting repairs.

Adding accessories like decals or an antenna ball is a breeze. However, with accessories like lighting or roof racks, you'll want to consult product instructions or even hire a professional to install such items.

Your Guide to Car Exterior Decor (12)

Hearst Autos Research

Hearst Autos Research, produced independently of the Car and Driver Editorial staff, provides articles about cars and the automotive industry to help readers make informed purchasing choices.

Your Guide to Car Exterior Decor (2024)

FAQs

How can I decorate the outside of my car? ›

2. Vinyl Wraps or Decals: For a more unique look, you can opt for vinyl wraps or decals to change the color or add designs to your car's exterior. These can be easily applied and removed without damaging the original paint.

How to customize your car exterior? ›

5 Cool Ways to Customize Your Car
  1. Tinting Your Windows.
  2. The Shiny New Paint Job.
  3. Adding Vinyl Wrapping.
  4. Adding New Rims.
  5. Customize Your Car With In-Entertainment.
  6. The Car of Your Dreams.
Feb 15, 2022

How to do a full exterior detail? ›

  1. Clean the wheels and engine first. ...
  2. Spray down paint and snow foam and then rinse off 5 mins later.
  3. Foam again and clay bar while the soap is on the car, only soap one panel at a time.
  4. Iron remover, let sit for 5-10 mins on wheels and paint them spray off.
  5. You now have bare paint so you can polish or compound scratches.
Feb 18, 2022

How can I make the outside of my car look better? ›

Simple Ways To Make Your Car's Exterior Look Better
  1. Wash and Wax Regularly. The easiest way to keep your car looking its best is to wash it regularly. ...
  2. Change Your Wheels or Rims. Replacing your wheels or rims is a great way to give your car an instant boost. ...
  3. Install New Lights. ...
  4. Apply Window Tinting. ...
  5. Install a Spoiler.
Dec 19, 2022

How can I decorate my car? ›

Top 10 Interior Design Ideas for Your Car
  1. Install New Seat Covers. ...
  2. Cover the Steering Wheel. ...
  3. Place All-Weather Floor Mats. ...
  4. Covers for Gear Knob, Handle Brake and Pedals. ...
  5. Add Ambient LED Light Strips. ...
  6. Include Infotainment Screens. ...
  7. Use USB Plugin Outlets. ...
  8. Install Phone Mounts.

How can I make my car look awesome? ›

6 Easy Ways to Make Your Car Look Better
  1. GIVE IT A CLEAN. Sometimes the simplest solution is the best. ...
  2. REPLACING FADED OR DAMAGED TRIM. ...
  3. REPLACING FACTORY FEATURES. ...
  4. CHANGING YOUR LOOK. ...
  5. PAINTING YOUR WHEELS. ...
  6. CLEANING UNDER THE HOOD.

How can I decorate my car at home? ›

Car Decoration Ideas
  1. Install New Seat Covers. ...
  2. Cover the Steering Wheel. ...
  3. Invest in All-Weather Floor Mats. ...
  4. Get Covers for the Gear Knob, Handle Brake, Pedals, and Seat Belt. ...
  5. Install Ambient LED Lights. ...
  6. Get an Infotainment Screen. ...
  7. Buy Decorative Air Fresheners. ...
  8. Get a Tissue Box.
Dec 28, 2023

What is automotive exterior design? ›

To ensure a vehicle is aerodynamic, its exterior design has to include several essential shapes: curves, the shoulder, a wedge, etc. The automotive interior designer tackles the challenge of fitting together all the components of the car while maintaining its aesthetics and comfort.

How can I change the exterior color of my car? ›

A proper paint job can take up to three weeks, while a wrap job will only take up to three days. With paint jobs, professionals have to strip your car of its old paint first and then apply it in layers. Car wrap professionals only have to wash your car's exterior and wrap your car with a heat-activated adhesive.

What order should you detail a car? ›

12 Steps Of Detailing
  1. Step 1: Wheels. Always, always, always start with the wheels. ...
  2. Step 2: Pre-Cleaner, Stage One. Always use a pre-cleaner. ...
  3. Step 3: Snow Foam, Stage Two. ...
  4. Step 4: The All-Important Two-Bucket Method Contact Wash. ...
  5. Step 5: The Decontamination Stage. ...
  6. Step 6: Drying. ...
  7. Step 7: Polishing. ...
  8. Step 8: Glaze.
Sep 21, 2017

Is exterior car detailing worth it? ›

Improved Appearance

Professional exterior detailing not only enhances the visual appeal of your car but also improves its overall appearance in various ways. One significant aspect is the removal of scratches and swirl marks that may have accumulated over time.

How can I make my car look more luxurious? ›

40 Cheap Upgrades That Will Make Your Car Feel Like a Luxury...
  1. Add a Steering Wheel Cover. A steering wheel cover increases the interior's flair. ...
  2. Wax Your Car. ...
  3. Put On a Car Bra. ...
  4. Get a Trunk Organizer. ...
  5. Shine Your Tires. ...
  6. Install a Backup Camera. ...
  7. Add a Tire Pressure Monitoring System. ...
  8. Put On Seat Covers.
Jun 26, 2020

How can I make my car look glossy? ›

How to Restore the Shine of Your Car Paint?
  1. Wash your car regularly. The first step to restoring the shine on your car paint is to give it a regular wash using suitable car shampoo and washcloth. ...
  2. Apply a good polish. ...
  3. Wax your car. ...
  4. Repair any damaged paintwork. ...
  5. Apply car paint protection.
Jul 8, 2022

How can I spice up my car interior? ›

15 Simple Ways to Instantly Improve the Interior of Your Car
  1. Use a Trunk Organizer. ...
  2. Install Heavy Duty Floormats. ...
  3. Add Bluetooth. ...
  4. Upgrade Your Speakers. ...
  5. Repaint Your Car's Interior Trim. ...
  6. Buy a Dashboard Camera. ...
  7. Make Driving Safer with a Phone Mount. ...
  8. Add a Steering Wheel Cover.
Jun 20, 2023

How can I decorate my car without damaging paint? ›

We suggest only using a temporary paint pen or window chalk designed decorate your cars glasses surfaces. Then after the big win, make sure to remove all of the paint and applied decorations as not to set the material into the paint job.

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Eusebia Nader

Last Updated:

Views: 6385

Rating: 5 / 5 (60 voted)

Reviews: 83% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Eusebia Nader

Birthday: 1994-11-11

Address: Apt. 721 977 Ebert Meadows, Jereville, GA 73618-6603

Phone: +2316203969400

Job: International Farming Consultant

Hobby: Reading, Photography, Shooting, Singing, Magic, Kayaking, Mushroom hunting

Introduction: My name is Eusebia Nader, I am a encouraging, brainy, lively, nice, famous, healthy, clever person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.