
Want a luxury car without the price tag? If you’re willing to make the investment, it’s possible to upgrade your current ride with just a few changes.
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Here are seven car upgrades experts say can make you look rich.
Also see five upgrades that aren’t worth the money.
Clean, Shiny and No Dents
The first and easiest car upgrade is one that may only take your time. “Step one is clean, shiny, no dents or paint defects,” said Chris Pyle, auto expert with JustAnswer. This could just be a cleaning or taking care of dents, scratches or chipped paint.
Melanie Musson, auto industry expert with AutoInsurance.org, also recommended getting your car waxed.
“A clean, freshly waxed car will instantly appear more luxurious. It’s one of the most cost-effective upgrades you can give your car,” Musson wrote in an email. “If you do it yourself, you can wash and wax for under $20.”
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Larger Tires and Nice Rims
If you’re willing to invest a little more, Pyle explained that larger tires and nicer rims are another option, with prices ranging from $1,000 to $3,000.
“A classy set of rims might cost around $1,000, but it puts your vehicle on another level,” Musson added. “They’re noticeable and desirable.”
Grille Guard
A grille guard, also known as a brush guard, attaches to the front of a truck or SUV to protect the vehicle from debris or impacts, but it also offers a more rugged look.
“A grille guard with lights and a winch. Those can be $800 to $2,000,” Pyle wrote.
Bed Cover
If you drive a truck, Pyle recommended a bed cover, which can also help protect your cargo and keep your truck looking clean and organized.
“If it is a truck, you can add a bed cover for about $600 to $1,200,” he said.
Wrap
For a small investment, a car wrap can make your car look much more expensive than it is. You can customize the look of your car by wrapping it in a premium finish, like matte, satin or even chrome.
“A wrap can make your car instantly look luxurious. A flat charcoal color, or something else that you can’t get from the factory, stands out, looks incredible and upgrades your vehicle, ” Musson wrote. “It’s not cheap, though. A full wrap will probably cost about $3,000. That’s still not as expensive as it would be to buy a luxury vehicle.”
Suspension Lift
A suspension lift can make your truck or SUV look more expensive and also give the impression that you’ve put more time and money into customizing your vehicle. “Trucks and SUVs can get an $800 to $2,500 suspension lift kit,” Pyle explained.
According to Kelley Blue Book, suspension lift kits can be complicated to install, but they can raise your vehicle by a foot or more.
Roof Rack
A roof rack can be handy if you frequently carry a lot of cargo or have an active lifestyle, but it can also give your vehicle a sporty and rugged look.
“For an SUV or truck, you can add a decked-out roof rack with lights and brackets for carrying stuff like a kayak,” Pyle explained. “Those can run around $600 to $1,800.”
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 7 Car Upgrades That Make You Look Rich, According to Car Experts
 
         
       
         
       
       
         
       
         
       
       
       
       
       
       
    