Gear · Auto

Gear for your car

A few car accessories can help after a crash, make theft harder, or get you out of a small jam without a tow.

Dash cams — Record what happened if there’s a crash or a dispute about fault.
Dash cams in California — On the windshield, a dash cam has to sit in one of three spots: a 7-inch square in the lower corner on the passenger side, a 5-inch square in the lower corner on the driver’s side (outside the airbag deployment zone), or a 5-inch square at the top center. California also requires a visible notice in the car that passengers’ conversations may be recorded. Other states set their own rules.
Anti-theft devices — Steering wheel locks and similar devices make a car a harder target.
Tire inflators — Top up a low tire or a slow leak without hunting for a gas-station pump.
Jump starters — Portable batteries that can start a car with a dead battery, no second car needed.

Helpful tools · Paid links

Check your state’s windshield rules before you mount a dash cam (California’s are above).

Dash cam
Records the road ahead, so you have video if there’s a crash or a dispute about who was at fault. Footage can help back up your account while the insurers sort out fault.
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Steering wheel lock
A visible lock makes a car a harder, slower target for thieves. Theft is usually covered only if you carry comprehensive coverage, and your deductible still applies.
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Portable tire inflator
Tops up a low tire or slow leak wherever you are. Underinflated tires raise the risk of a blowout, and tire damage on its own often isn’t covered by auto policies.
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Portable jump starter
Starts a dead battery without a second car or a long wait for help, so you’re less likely to be stranded somewhere unsafe. Check that it’s rated for your engine size.
See options on Amazon

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Education, not advice. We list product categories for general information; we don’t test, rank, or endorse specific products, and no device guarantees a claim outcome. When it matters, talk to your carrier or a licensed professional.