5 Popular Aftermarket Auto Parts

Next to your home, your car is the biggest investment you have. Besides the usual upkeep of rotating the tires, getting the oil changed and the occasional vacuuming there are other ways to keep up the look of your favorite auto. It's an extension of yourself and with a little TLC you can add on to it and make your car go a long way.   

• Tire and Rims. Stuck with the same old stock tires that you got when you first purchased your vehicle? Kick it up a notch the next time your reach 25,000 miles. Yeah, that about how long you should ride them. Pick up some performance tires and grip the road. You'll be amazed at how much better you'll drive but you'll also save on fuel.  
• Taillights and Headlamps. Equip your car with the least technology so that you can see and others can see you. Headlamps have come a long way and now with the newest LEDs. Aftermarket part stores offer headlamps for all makes and models. They are very easy to install and you'll be seeing farther at night and in bad weather in a snap. Also, new headlamps (and taillights) give your car that new look that is very appealing. Well worth the money if you drive at night a lot. 
• Boot Shifters. If you drive a Manual transmission then you know just how easy it is for your boot around your stick to wear out. That's because auto manufactures ship low quality boot shifters to lower the cost of the vehicle. This is one of the most popular parts to be replaced. Higher quality leather and reinforced stitching is used. Also, in most cases, the consumer can choose between a variety of colors to better suit the vehicle. 
• Brakes. Probably the most important part on you car is the brakes, Just think about how many times and at what pressure you apply your brakes in a given ride to the grocery store. But you probably didn't know that brake shoes and pads come in a variety of choices to customize your car. This is important because every car is different. When it comes to replacing your brakes after 30,000 miles go to an aftermarket supplier and get the right ones that will suit your needs. Remember you get what you pay for - cheap brakes are cheap brakes. And when you are driving in the rain with a van full of kids you'll want peace of mind knowing that you'll be able to stop when you need to. 
• Ignition Systems. In this day and age of technology it only makes sense that you should be able to warm up you car in the cold winter before you get in it. Having a remote start is becoming more and more common these days. Even companies like Verizon Wireless are getting into this type of tech. With their remote system you can start you car from your smartphone. And it doesn't stop there; remember that you can use it to cool down your car by starting the A/C on those hot summer days. 

Simple solutions to keep you car running a looking good year round. Now go out and enjoy the open road!

Membership Has It's Privileges

Groucho Marx once said, "I don't want to belong to any club that will accept me as a member". That's nearly impossible to do today. Everywhere you go businesses are in your face, in your mail, on your phone and on your computer asking you to become a member of one thing or another. How do you know what are the best for your money? Surprisingly, there are a select few that may be worth your investment. 

Museums and Zoo Memberships

Do you have kids? Nothing is more educational to a child (or yourself) then getting them to experience life and culture with their own eyes and ears. Museums are not only affordable but you can get parking passes and behind the scene tours of the best exhibits. When limited engagement are displayed, members can get a special preview before the non-member public. Many zoos and museums also have reciprocal agreements with other venues around the country. It's also a great way too get exercise.

Gym Memberships

Need to get a little more healthy? A gym is only good if you use it but if you do, you can take advantage of lower renewal costs. Paying for a membership also gives you the motivation to work out. It can be a bother to some in our daily lives to get up and get out the door, but for most of us that is exactly what we need. Gym memberships have tiered pricing so be aware of what you're signing up for and if you pay for the extra Spinning or Zumba class, be sure to attend so you don't waste your money. Ultimately the membership is an investment in yourself and a very important one at that.

Dining Memberships

Have favorite restaurant? Then a membership of any sort is the right idea. From getting a punch card at the sandwich shop to having a full on Dining Club membership, these small signups can save you lots of money. You may not think so but 10% off of a carryout or 25% off a birthday or anniversary dinner can go along way. Some dining clubs have even more offers like preferred seating and advanced reservations for holiday's like Valentine's Day dinner or Mother's Day brunch!

Amazon Prime Membership

Do you do any sort of shopping in the internet? Then this membership is a must. Amazon sells more then just books and movies - much more. The Prime membership is only $79 per year and is chock full of benefits and will pay for itself in just a handful of purchases. Some of the privileges are free two-day Shipping, no minimum order size, unlimited instant streaming of thousands of movies and TV shows with Prime Instant Videos and probably the best and most convent feature: members-only 1-click buttons on product pages.

With a little planning with your budget in the short term you can save money long term. 

What other memberships are good to join?