#OBDeleven
Must-have car accessories in 2026
Cars are getting packed with smarter features every year.
So it’s no surprise the market for smart car tech is expected to reach $26.47 billion by 2030. The EV boom and AI have only accelerated this trend – and opened the door for a lot of clever accessories, for both older and newer vehicles.
We’ve handpicked the must-have smart car devices and gadgets for 2026 across four categories: tech, EVs, comfort, and safety.
Not random gadgets you’ll toss in a drawer, but clever add-ons that make sense whether you just got your license or have been driving for years.
Best smart car gadgets for everyday driving
If you love staying connected or simply want to make your car smarter, these are the techy upgrades worth your attention.
OBD2 scanner (OBDeleven)
You can’t really call yourself a modern driver if OBDeleven 3 isn’t in your pocket yet. It’s one of the smartest tech accessories you can add to almost any car. With it, you can handle easy DIY diagnostics and maintenance yourself – and save money you’d otherwise spend at the workshop.
You can run full diagnostic scans, erase minor faults, activate custom features like light modes and startup animations, view live data – real-time sensor readings from your car – and more, depending on your car and plan.
OBDeleven works with most vehicles made since 2008 – plug it into the OBD port, connect it to your smartphone, and you’re ready to go. But that’s not all.
The OBDeleven app also gives you access to dedicated smart features that go way beyond basic diagnostics. You can set up handy reminders for oil changes, avoid odometer fraud, and check if your car is ready for an emissions test. We’re talking features like Maintenance reminders, Mileage check, and Emissions readiness check – all in one app.
Diagnostics are free for life, while pre-coded feature activation (called One-Click Apps) starts at just €2. It’s a powerful, easy way to upgrade any ride. And if you love tinkering, the PRO or ULTIMATE packs unlock even more.
Appareil OBDeleven 3 + 200 Crédits
Comprend l’appareil OBDeleven 3 et 200 crédits pour débloquer des fonctionnalités de voiture avec les One-Click Apps
€114.99
Pas de plan payant nécessaire
CarPlay or Android Auto add-ons
Nowadays, most cars come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, if yours is older or didn’t come from the factory, you’re not out of luck.
Install a full-screen add-on that’s basically a tablet, such as the Car and Driver Intellidash Pro X10. It mirrors your phone's display onto your car’s screen, just like built-in systems, giving you full access to maps, calls, messages, AI voice assistants and music apps.
Source: amazon.com
Already have wired CarPlay on your existing infotainment system? You can easily convert it to wireless with a simple adapters you can find online.
Note: OBDeleven also works with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so you can see live data, maintenance reminders, battery status, and more right on your car’s screen. Learn how to set it up right here.
Wireless charging mounts
There are plenty of good phone holders out there.
But the real convenience comes when you can follow maps and charge your phone at the same time – just snap it on magnetically with no bothersome clamps. A MagSafe or other sturdy wireless charger keeps everything powered on the go and helps prevent dead batteries on long trips – like Magsafe Car Chargers from Anker.
Source: amazon.com
USB car chargers
If you’ve ever been annoyed by not having enough charging ports in your car, here’s your reminder that it doesn’t have to stay that way. Add a couple of extra USB or USB-C chargers that plug straight into the cigarette lighter, so everyone can charge their devices without fighting over one port. There’s a lot available online that won’t break the bank.
Tire inflator
A portable tire inflator can save the day when you get a slow leak or a flat and need to reach the nearest shop. It’s also handy for seasonal pressure changes, helping you keep tires at the right pressure for safer handling and better fuel economy.
A compact option from Fanttik (X8 APEX Tire Inflator) promises speed and good battery life. Useful for bike tires too.
Source: amazon.com
Accessories for electric & hybrid cars
You don’t need tons of stuff as an EV owner, but the right things can make keeping that battery charged up much easier.
Portable Level 2 charging cable
A portable Level 2 charger can significantly reduce charging times whenever you have access to a 240V outlet.
It’s a huge time-saver if you currently rely on slow Level 1 charging or don’t have a fixed home charging station. And on trips, it can be a lifesaver at places like campgrounds, RV parks, or garages.
Consider something like the DeWalt or a J+ Booster. However, the best choice still depends on your specific vehicle and region.
Source: jplusbooster.com
Note: Only use a portable Level 2 charger with properly grounded, correctly rated 240V outlets.
Charging adapters
With so many connector types out there, a set of reliable adapters makes it much easier to plug in almost anywhere you stop. Just make sure they’re rated for the current your charger draws and that you understand which outlets are safe to use.
Here’s a practical EV charging connector guide to make it easier.
Charging adapter lock
Here’s the deal: EV charging cables are expensive. That’s why thieves like them. You can get a simple padlock to attach when charging at a public place, or a specifically made one.
This might be enough to deter theft, since many thieves won’t have tools on them to cut it open quickly.
Charging cables organizer
Loose cables in the trunk get tangled, damaged, and bring dirt into the cabin if they’ve been laying on the ground. A simple zip bag, cable organizer, or trunk bin keeps your charging cable, adapters, and gloves in one clean place.
Tip: Get some Velcro ties to keep it wrapped up nicely; they work for both computer, TV, and EV charging cables.
Car comfort accessories & interior style
Saving seconds in your day is easier when everything has its place. Here are a few clever accessories that are less techy, but still very nice to have:
Magnetic sunglasses holders
If you still leave your glasses on the windshield, this one’s for you. Direct sun isn’t ideal and can cause your shades to fade or get damaged over time. That’s why a magnetic holder that attaches to your car’s visor like this is a great option. There’s some from Baseus that we liked.
Source: baseusonline.com
Car air purifiers
Those who are no strangers to driving long distances know how stuffy the car cabin can get. An air purifier is an excellent solution for addressing this problem, filtering out dust, odors, and pollutants.
Compactness is the primary criterion here, which is why the Philips Go Pure could be a great option. For a premium hospital-grade option, consider the IQAir Atem Car.
Source: amazon.com
Seat gap fillers
You don’t want to find 5-year-old fries rotting between your seats. Or dig around blindly for a phone or keys that slipped into the gap. For this, try installing seat gap fillers. The DropStop is a straightforward one.
Source: buydropstop.com
Dashboard anti-slip pads
While the dash is not the most ideal place to keep your stuff, it becomes home to many random items. To prevent them from sliding around every time you brake or turn, add an anti-slip pad on the dash. Choose the one that fits your car’s dash contours best.
Backseat or trunk organizers
No one wants groceries, kids’ inventory, or washer fluid slipping around each time you take a turn. Consider getting an attachable trunk organizer, such as the Drive Auto Products Trunk Organizer. They also work great for EV charging cables, so they’re not rolling around the trunk.
Source: amazon.com
Chapstick holders
A clever little accessory that keeps your lip balm or lipstick within easy reach instead of lost between seats. Plenty of variants on Amazon or other marketplaces.
Source: amazon.com
Car safety essentials for everyday peace of mind
Safety tech has evolved fast, but the right gadgets can help in certain unexpected situations. These essentials should add an extra layer of confidence on every trip:
Dashcam
A dashcam feels unnecessary – until you’re in an accident where everything is a blur or the other driver vanishes after a hit-and-run. Having video proof can save you a lot of stress when dealing with insurance or police reports.
Viofo offers some solid options worth considering. But if you’re looking for something really future-proof, this Thinkware U3000 PRO packs a bunch of features that we’ll probably see more of in 2026 and beyond.
Jump starter
A compact lithium jump pack is another accessory you barely think about – until the car won’t start and you’re stuck on the side of the road. Our suggestions include the Clore Automotive JNC325 or a more compact NOCO Boost Plus GB40.
Source: cloreautomotive.com
Digital rear-view mirror
Instead of reflecting what’s behind you, the “mirror” is a slim LCD that shows a live video feed from a camera mounted at the back of the car.
That means a clearer view in the dark, in rain, or when the rear window is blocked by cargo or passengers. One of the possible options could be a WOLFBOX G900 Rear View Mirror Camera.
Source: amazon.com
Further reading: If you’re interested in how the future of in-car displays could look like, check out this BMW announcement about a 3D head-up display (HUD) that stretches from pillar to pillar along the windshield.
Apple AirTag or other smart trackers
Keep track of your car’s location with a smart tracker hidden inside. It’s also useful for checked luggage, keys, or anything you tend to lose.
Apple AirTag works with Apple’s Find My network, while Tile Pro is a solid choice if you’re cross‑platform.
Battery-powered carbon monoxide sensor
Carbon monoxide poisoning is no joke. It’s a colorless, odorless gas produced by incomplete combustion – in cars, that’s mainly the exhaust.
Even relatively low concentrations, when sustained over time, can cause headaches, nausea, and dizziness. Older vehicles or those in poor condition are at the highest risk, so consider installing a First Alert or a similar alarm to alert you if the concentration increases.
Source: firstalert.com
Emergency keychain escape tool
This one’s for a real force majeure, but better to be safe than sorry. Resqme combines a seatbelt cutter with a spring‑loaded window punch on your keychain.
Source: resqme.com
Looking for an all-in-one car accessory?
There’s an accessory for every type of driver – and then there’s OBDeleven, made to fit them all.
A compact, on-the-go diagnostic and customization tool, OBDeleven helps you stay ahead of maintenance, track performance, and unlock hidden car features – all from your smartphone.
If you’re adding just one thing to your car this year, make it this.
Appareil OBDeleven 3 + 200 Crédits
Comprend l’appareil OBDeleven 3 et 200 crédits pour débloquer des fonctionnalités de voiture avec les One-Click Apps
€114.99
Pas de plan payant nécessaire