Chances are, you already know how to use the controls in your car like the wipers, air conditioning, radio, and warning lights. You may not have read the car owner’s manual, but you know how to change the tires. But what you might not know are these simple car hacks that can make a big difference in your life. These hacks aren’t in any car manual and can really change your life for the better. There’s something for everyone, from small annoyances to bigger problems, and you can find out if you’ve already tried any of these hacks by doing a search.
1. Fixing A Dent With Hot Water & A Plunge
If your car has a dent or a bump, don’t worry! We have a simple solution for you. Dents happen all the time, and they’re not as difficult to fix as you might think. Just heat up some water in a teapot or a pan until it boils, then pour the hot water over the dent. After that, use a plunger to push the dent out. If the car hasn’t been seriously damaged, the dent should come out easily. It might not look exactly the same as before, but it will be less noticeable.
2. Avoid Crumbs
If you have toddlers, you’re probably familiar with how messy a car can get. It seems like your car becomes a trash can! What’s even more challenging is when kids drop things between the car seats, making it difficult to clean up. To solve this, simply place a sheet under the booster seat to catch any objects that fall through the cracks. This way, you won’t have to worry about melted snacks, juice spills, or even dog slobber causing any trouble for your car.
3. Use A Newspaper To Clean Windows
Although we just discussed one method for cleaning windows, it’s a good idea to know a few more options. There’s a surprising technique that works wonders: using an old newspaper. First, apply window cleaner to the windows. Then, take a sharp brush and rub the newspaper on the glass.
4. Download A Parking App to Find Your Car
Having trouble remembering where you parked your car? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Instead of aimlessly wandering around the parking lot, there are many apps available to help you find your car quickly. With these handy applications, you won’t have to spend a long time searching for your car. There’s a wide range of apps out there that can help you easily locate your vehicle.
5. Warm Up Your Windshield Wipers
Here’s a handy trick to save you the trouble of dealing with frost on your windshield wipers every morning. All you need is a couple of old socks and a few minutes in the evening. Simply slip one sock over each wiper before you go to bed. By the time you wake up and get ready to leave in the morning, the ice will have melted, and your wipers will be good to go. It’s a simple solution that saves you time and hassle!
6. Use Scented Wax Cubes As Air Fresheners
If you want to create your own air freshener, here’s a simple trick. Take some scented wax cubes and place them in a Mason jar with small holes in the lid. Put the jar in your car, and as the temperature rises, the wax will melt, filling the air with a delightful fragrance. It’s an easy and effective way to keep your car smelling great!
7. Check Your Tire’s State With A Penny
To make sure your tires are safe, you can use a coin to check their tread depth. Take a coin and place it into the tire’s tread with President Abraham Lincoln’s head facing down. If the head sinks halfway into the tread, your tires are in good shape. However, if any of the president’s heads are fully visible, it means the tread is too shallow, and you’ll need to replace the tires for your safety.
8. Make Grocery Shopping Easier With Laundry Baskets
Next time you go grocery shopping, remember to keep an empty laundry basket in your car’s trunk. When you finish shopping, you can place all your groceries in the basket. This way, you’ll reduce the number of trips between the store and your car, making your shopping experience much easier and more convenient!
9. Silicone Cupcake Liners
People who love driving often find immense joy in owning a car. It’s a special feeling that can’t be compared to anything else. Owning a car is seen as a privilege, and some people may even have an emotional connection with their vehicle. On the other hand, for some, a car is simply a means of transportation, getting them from one place to another.
10. Lowering Your Insurance Costs
If you want to cut down on your regular expenses, especially car-related costs, there’s a great option available: improve your defensive driving skills. Not only will this enhance your driving abilities, but it can also lead to lower car insurance costs in many countries. If you’re unsure whether investing your time and money in defensive driving is worth it, consider the potential savings you could enjoy on your insurance. It’s definitely something to think about!
11. What Side Is The Tank On?
Sometimes people don’t know which side of their car the fuel tank is on. But guess what? The solution is right in front of them! Take a look at your car’s fuel gauge. Can you see it? There’s a little symbol of a fuel pump, and right next to it, there’s a handy arrow pointing to the side where the fuel filler cap is located. So, just check your fuel gauge, and it will show you exactly which side of the car your fuel tank is on. Easy peasy!
12. Long Ride With A Messy Kid? MagnaDoodle Got You Covered
When going on a long car ride with a young child, it’s important to consider their potential mess and boredom. Fortunately, a MagnaDoodle can come to the rescue for both of these issues. It’s a highly entertaining toy for kids because they can draw and erase without needing any additional materials. Additionally, you can use it as a tray table for them to eat on, preventing spills and crumbs from making a mess. It’s a wonderful solution to keep things clean and keep your child entertained during the journey.
13. Clean Your Wheels With Coke
Many people have heard of using Coca Cola for cleaning purposes, but did you know that a mixture of soda and dish soap can effectively clean your wheels? This combination will remove all the dirt and dust, leaving your wheels looking shiny. Some people worry that using baking soda alone might not work well, but adding dish soap to the mixture helps prevent any issues.
14. Clean Your AC Vents
During extremely hot summers and freezing winters, the air conditioning in your car can be a real lifesaver. However, many people overlook the importance of cleaning their car’s air vents. Luckily, you can easily do this with a foam brush, which you can find at a local hardware store. Gently brushing each vent panel will not only keep the air conditioning system clean and fresh, but it will also contribute to the overall health and well-being of everyone in the car.
15. Vaseline Tip
For a long time, Vaseline has been a reliable solution for many different things. It’s not just useful for colds or the flu; it can be used for various tasks. Have you ever considered using it on your car’s interior? If your car has a vinyl or leather interior, you can use a cloth or cotton wool to apply Vaseline all over it. This helps prevent the leather from tearing and keeps it in good condition. In addition, during the winter months, you can apply Vaseline to rubber door seals to prevent them from freezing. Vaseline is a versatile and handy product to have for your car!
16. You Can Use Pantyhose As A Fan Belt
If you have any other options, like calling for a tow, it’s best to use them when dealing with a broken fan belt. Trying to save money by using pantyhose as a replacement is risky, as it could potentially lead to the engine catching fire. However, if you find yourself stranded and in need of assistance, using pantyhose temporarily can help you reach a gas station or a place with cell service. It’s important to prioritize safety and consider alternative solutions in such situations.
17. Use Nail Polish On Small Scratches
Paying a professional to fix a small scratch or chip in your car’s paint may not be cost-effective. However, there’s a simple trick you can try before giving up. If you can find a nail polish color that matches your car’s paint, you can use it to cover up the scratches. The nail polish acts as a clever disguise, and unless someone is specifically looking for the scratches, they won’t even notice them. It’s a quick and affordable way to make those scratches less visible on your car.
18. Dryer Sheets As Air Freshener
Clip-on or over-the-mirror air fresheners don’t last very long, so they’re not worth the money. Instead, you can opt for a more affordable and effective solution: dryer sheets. They are less noticeable, more economical, and do a great job of getting rid of odors. Dryer sheets come in different scents or without any scent at all, and they can keep your car smelling nice for a long time. It’s a simple and cost-effective way to maintain a pleasant aroma in your car.
19. The Nanotech Car Scratch Remover Cloth
These special Scratch Remover Cloths use advanced nanotechnology to remove scratches and imperfections from your car’s paint, restoring its original color and keeping it looking fresh. Each cloth can be used multiple times, approximately 10 to 15 times. The company even offers a one-year guarantee, so if you’re not happy with the results, you can contact them for assistance. This gives you the freedom to try the product and reach out to the company if it doesn’t meet your expectations.
20. Put A Shower Caddy In The Trunk
If you’re someone who likes to be prepared, you probably have oil, a funnel, a rag, a flashlight, and other emergency car supplies stored in your car’s trunk. To keep these important items organized and hidden when you need them, consider getting a shower caddy. It not only helps keep everything in order but also keeps your trunk neat and tidy.
21. Use Pool Noodles To Prevent Car Dings
If you often hit the side of your garage while leaving, there’s a simple solution for you. Take an old pool noodle, cut it in half, and attach it to the wall where the door swings out. You can use bolts or command strips to secure it in place. This will protect your car from scratches and keep the wall safe as well. It’s a straightforward way to ensure both your car and the wall are protected.
22. Use Muffin Pans As A Cupholder
When you’re picking up a large order from a fast-food restaurant, it’s a good idea to bring along a muffin tin and a basket. This clever trick will give you a bigger and more secure cup holder for your beverages. It’s a simple way to ensure your drinks stay in place and last longer. So, keep this tip in mind the next time you order a lot of food from a fast-food restaurant.
23. Diagnose Your Own Car Troubles
It is no longer necessary to visit a mechanic to identify potential car problems – now, all you need to do is purchase an auto-code reader. This device can be connected to the car’s computer system utilizing the On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) plug, and it will immediately decipher the engine’s trouble codes. This will tell you what is causing the check engine light to come on, where a faulty oxygen sensor is located, how to access improved data, and even the quickest way to get the vehicle’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
24. Always Keep An Emergency Kit
You don’t have to go to a mechanic anymore to find out what’s wrong with your car. Just get an auto-code reader. It connects to your car’s computer using a special plug, and it quickly reads the engine’s trouble codes. This tells you why the check engine light is on, where a problem with the oxygen sensor might be, and even gives you more information about your car. It’s an easy way to figure out car problems and get important details without going to a mechanic.
25. Need A Trash Bin? Use Cereal Bins
Sometimes we unintentionally make our cars smelly by throwing trash inside. But don’t worry, there’s a simple solution. You can use a small plastic box, like the one for holding cereal, as a mini trash bin. Just put a plastic bag inside to keep it clean and prevent bad smells from spreading. It’s an easy way to keep your car fresh and tidy.
26. Reduce Glare With A Tinted Plastic Sheet
We’ve all been in a situation where we forget our sunglasses and have to drive towards the setting sun. But don’t worry, there’s a simple trick to protect yourself. You can attach a tinted piece of plastic to the inside of your car window. This will block the sun rays and make it easier for you to drive without squinting. It’s a quick and effective solution to keep the sun at bay.
27. Handy Towel Holder
Here’s a great tip, especially for parents with young kids. Attach a paper towel roll to your car using a bungee cord. This way, you’ll always have easy access to paper towels whenever you need them. No more searching around the car for a roll when someone spills something or has a runny nose. It’s a simple and convenient solution for those messy moments on the road.
28. Vinegar To Defrost Your Windows
In the event that you have to thaw your car on a cold morning, it’s not something to joke about. Why not give it a try? It works, trust us! Instead of spraying water on your windshield, blend vinegar with water. After that, put all the ingredients into a spray bottle and apply it over your windows. The vinegar helps to thaw the ice quicker, and you can use a spray bottle to evenly distribute the mixture to get rid of any icy spots blocking your view.
29. Don’t Weigh Down Your Key
This is not a car hack, but a warning. Having too many keys or keychains on your keyring can harm the ignition switch and make it harder to start your car over time. It’s best to keep only three important keys or keychains on your keyring. If you ever feel the switch is tight or your key gets stuck, take it to the dealer immediately. Ignoring this could lead to costly repairs later on.
30. Prevent Car Sickness
This is not a car hack, but rather a word of caution. Having too many keys or keychains on your keyring can harm the ignition switch and make it harder to start your car over time. It’s advised to keep only three important keys or keychains on your keyring. If you ever notice the switch feeling tight or your key getting stuck, take your car to the dealer immediately. Ignoring this issue could lead to expensive repairs in the future.
31. Use Over-The-Door Shoe Racks As Backseat Organizers
If you have young children, an over-the-door shoe rack can be very useful. It allows you to store important items within easy reach in the back of your car. You can keep things like sippy cups, toys, chargers, and snacks in the pockets of the shoe rack. The pockets are more visible and accessible compared to the standard pockets in some minivans.
32. Window Chips? Clear Nail Polish Could Help
Nail polish is usefull again! If you have a crack in your car windshield, it can get worse and make driving dangerous. If you can’t buy a new windshield now, you can use clear nail polish on the crack to prevent it from spreading. Just apply a few drops in a line on the crack using a pair of pantyhose.
33. Keep Your Cup Holder Clean By Doing This
Use silicone cupcake wrappers in your car’s cupholders to keep your coins together. They are easy to remove and clean, so there won’t be any mess in your cupholders. You’ll be amazed at how well this simple trick works to keep things organized.
34. Save Space Using Carabiner Hooks
Attach carabiner clips to your headrests and you’ll have extra space in the back of your car. You can hang bags, groceries, umbrellas, and other items on the clips. It will provide you with more room than you might expect.
35. Get More Gas From The Pump
When filling up your gas tank, it’s better not to press the gas pump all the way down, even if it seems easier. If you do, bubbles will form in your tank and the nozzle will think you’re finished. But there’s still room for more fuel! Just be patient and press the pump at a slower pace. It will take a bit longer, but you’ll end up with more gasoline in your car.
36. Blow Away Bumper Stickers
If you have a bumper sticker on your car, taking it off is easier than you think. Just use a good hair dryer. By heating the edges of the sticker with the dryer, the adhesive will loosen and you can peel off the sticker. It’s time to say goodbye to those old bumper stickers from 2006.
37. De-Ice Your Keyholes With Hand Sanitizers
If you’ve ever had a frozen car lock, you know how tough it can be to unfreeze it. But here’s a surprising solution: hand sanitizer. Even though it might seem strange to put something in a stuck lock, the alcohol in hand sanitizer actually melts the ice, allowing you to turn the lock. It works just like it does on your hands, dissolving the ice on your car.
38. Keep Your Seats Buckled During Hot Weather
Trying to buckle your seatbelt during hot summers can be dangerous. The metal parts of your car that have been exposed to sunlight and heat can become too hot to touch comfortably. However, you can avoid this problem by buckling your seatbelt after you get out of the car and leaving it in place until you get back in. If it stays out of the sun, it won’t get hot enough to burn your hands!
39. Need To Keep Things In Place? Use Command Hooks
If you need a place to keep your belongings like a wallet, tote bag, or facemask in your car, try using a command hook on the bottom of the floor. This way, you can easily access and organize all your items. Remember this tip and your car won’t feel cramped anymore.
40. Gauge Your Garage Parking With A Tennis Ball
Are you struggling to park your car in the garage? We have a solution. It can be difficult to know when to stop. All you have to do is hang a line from the garage roof and attach a tennis ball to it. When the ball touches your windshield, you’ll know you’ve gone far enough.
41. Keep Some Kitty Litter In Your Trunk
Even if you don’t have a cat, it’s a good idea to keep a bag of non-clumping kitty litter in your car trunk. You can use the litter to create more traction if your car gets stuck in the snow or on a slippery surface. Just sprinkle the litter around your tires and try to drive out.
42. Another Kitty Litter Hack
Here’s an interesting idea: put cat litter in a sock and place it on your car’s dashboard. It may sound strange, but it actually prevents the windshield from fogging up. It’s an important tip to keep in mind.
43. Dirty Headlights And Toothpaste
If your car headlights seem foggy, you don’t have to rush to the auto shop right away. You might have a solution at home already. It turns out that toothpaste, which has mild abrasives for cleaning enamel, can be used to clean headlights, just like it cleans teeth. With a little toothpaste and some effort, you can make your headlights shiny and bright again! (Note: This may not always work. If the inside of the headlight is yellow, you should consider replacing it.)
44. Opening Your Keyring With A Staple Remover
No need to worry about hurting your fingers when adding new keys to a big metal keychain. Just grab a staple remover and use it to open the ends of the keychain. Slide the keys in and you’re good to go! It’s so simple that you’ll wonder why you didn’t think of it before.
45. Lessen Frost By Parking Your Car Facing East
It may seem odd, but it’s actually pretty simple and makes sense. When your car is parked in the sun during sunrise, the front window will defrost first. So, if you leave for work when the sun is up, you won’t have to wait for the defroster to warm up.
46. Extend Your Key’s Range By Holding Them To Your Head
It might sound strange, but it actually works! If you place your keys under your chin and press the button, the range of your key signal will slightly increase. The liquids in your skull can alter the signal’s range. If you’re skeptical, give it a try!
47. You Can Use Rubber Bands As Phone Holders
rewrite in simple way : If you don’t have someone to hold a GPS device or a smartphone holder in your car, it can be difficult to check navigation while driving. But don’t worry, you can achieve the same result with a rubber band. Just loop the band through some vents on the center console of your vehicle and around the top and bottom of your smartphone.
48. Easy Way To Cool Down A Hot Car
Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you had to endure scorching temperatures just to get some fresh air inside your extremely hot car? Well, there’s a simple trick you can try. Roll down the passenger window and quickly open and shut the driver’s side door. This creates a fan-like effect, bringing in cool air while pushing out the stuffy, hot air. It can help you breathe easier once you’re inside the car.
49. Slime Is Your Savior
Here’s an unexpected car hack using a child’s toy that you might find surprising but effective. Slime, the squishy toy, can actually be a great cleaning tool for your car. If you don’t have any slime at home, you can easily get some from a grocery store. Use the slime to clean those hard-to-reach areas in your car, such as air vents and the sides of seats. The slime will quickly pick up any dirt or dust that’s difficult to remove.
50. If Your Tires Blows, DON’T Brake
Here’s a great tip that’s not a trick. If you experience a flat tire while driving at least 65 km/h on a straight road, don’t stop. Even though it might feel natural, try to resist the urge. Why? If you brake, your car could lose control and you might hit something. Instead, keep your foot on the gas. It may sound strange, but this will help you regain control of your car and stay in a straight line. It should only take a few moments.
