Carrying a heavy load? Check out the rules below and the best straps for you.

turnbuckle-g0e1632725_1920.jpg

The best ratchet straps

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The best garage security products to keep your car safe

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The best steering wheel locks

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The best e-bikes under £1,000 that really go the distance

The best aftermarket daytime running lights

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What you need to know about aftermarket daytime running lights

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Best fire extinguishers for cars

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The best electric scooters to get you from A to B

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CAR investigates home breathalysers

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The best budget electric scooters UK

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The best smart tyre safety monitor

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The best first aid kits to keep in the car

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The best wheel clamps

Car Maintenance

Car Care

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Storage and Racks

Car Accessories

Technology

Gifts

Travel

Commuters

Security

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e-Scooters

e-Bikes

If you haven't already started thinking about your Christmas shopping, perhaps the thought of the bounty of bargains waiting in the festive sale might get your present-buying radar going. Black Friday has come and gone and the festive season officially begins.

Many retailers take part in offering tasty discounts towards the big day and indeed the Boxing Day sales afterwards. So, you have a good chance to grab a bargain.

Whether it's a gift for a loved one or one to somply treat yourself this Christmas, there is money to be saved off a number of great items. From dashcams to car care products and even Lego, there is something for everyone.

## The best early Christmas UK deals for motorists

It’s worthwhile signing up to :a[Prime]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/amazonprime?tag=cararticle188-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'} before Black Friday. It’s a 30-day free trial and gives you access to faster, next-day delivery.

Sign up to the :a[CAR newsletter]{href='https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-newsletter/' }, too. It’ll save you time and hassle because we’ll have done the bargain hunting for you.

The truth is, whilst Black Friday has come and gone, it's only opened up the floodgates to further deals on your favourite products. The festive season is approaching and the run-up to Boxing Day sales are a great chance to snap up a bargain. They won't last forever though.

Friday 29th November 2024 with Cyber Monday following on 2nd December.

**_:a[Ryan Gilmore]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/author/ryan-gilmore/' } is the Deputy Autos and Tools Editor for CAR, specialising in car cleaning and hand tools. With an MA in Automotive Journalism, when he's not testing buckets he can be found looking at old Porsches._**

### For verdicts, scoops, news and analysis from the team, delivered direct to your inbox, subscribe to the :a[CAR newsletter]{href='https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-newsletter/' }. {#h-for-verdicts-scoops-news-and-analysis-from-the-team-delivered-direct-to-your-inbox-subscribe-to-the-car-newsletter}

### You can enjoy CAR in its traditional :a[print format]{href='https://www.greatmagazines.co.uk/car-magazine' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer'}, or one of the swelling number of :a[digital editions]{href='https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-news/magazine/digital-preview-of-the-new-issue-of-car-magazine/' }, optimised for Apple iPhones, Android devices, iPads, tablets and desktop computers. {#h-you-can-enjoy-car-in-its-traditional-print-format-or-one-of-the-swelling-number-of-digital-editions-optimised-for-apple-iphones-android-devices-ipads-tablets-and-desktop-computers}

A selection of Black Friday car products on a laser background

Early Christmas deals UK 2023: CAR’s best automotive deals

So you want to be a sim racer, but your rig ain't fly? Well, instead of a visit from Xzibit in some weird episode of _Pimp My Ride_, CAR will look through some of the best sim racing accessories out there to help you get the maximum from your rig and bring your driving up a level.

You don't have to have the most extravagant set-up to get the best out of your driving, but it is nice to have extra comfort levels while you game. This will keep your driving at its peak for as long as you can maintain while giving you something nice to enjoy.

## What do I need to accessorize my sim? {#h-what-do-i-need-to-accessorize-my-sim}

This all depends on your personal needs and wants. Some people might want a new seat to give them a better driving position, a sharper, more controlled handbrake, new headphones with a microphone or even just some lighting to go around your sim to make it 'look cool' when you Twitch. Whatever your reason, there's an endless list of things you can do.

## Do accessories make me a better sim racer?

Well, that's not strictly true. If you get a better servo for your steering wheel or some pedals with a better response, you can improve your driving by the feel that you get back through the controllers. However, as with anything in life, it takes practice.

Plus, some pretty lights around the edge of your sim will do nothing for your driving skill, but they might look nice on your Insta live stream.

This can be quite a long list, as it depends on what you're looking for, but let's get into it and see what comes out of it.

Upgrading your rig with a stand or a seat is one of the quickest and easiest things you can do. Instead of having your pedals on the floor and steering wheel clamped to a desk, you can start customising things. This likely means you'll be more comfortable for longer and feel better behind the wheel.

_Please note: All prices correct at time of writing. Prices, stock and deals subject to change without notice._

## Steering Wheels, Servos and Display units {#h-steering-wheels-servos-and-display-units}

Up your drift and rally game with these handbrakes.

## Monitors, stands and mounts {#h-monitors-stands-and-mounts}

If you want to up your sim experience, a monitor stand bringing the action closer to you can help. It'll make everything feel a lot closer and much more accurate. Differences in each won't be huge, but it'll be which you have to work with.

Up your streaming and communication in-game with a headset which won't make you sound like a low-budget pilot giving the weather updates, and you'll be able to hear what people are saying to you, too.

Nothing will make your set-up look more relaxed than immersive lighting. The lights can also reflect what's happening in the game, giving you a much more immersive experience and feel.

## Comfort accessories {#h-comfort-accessories}

Add these convenience items to your rig; they won't add performance, but they'll make your racing a bit more comfortable.

#### :a[Myles]{href='https://www.whatsthebest.co.uk/author/myles-warwood' } is a Commercial Content Writer for What's The Best, Parkers and CAR. His areas of expertise include cycling, fitness tech and hot hatches.

#### Subscribe to the What's The Best :a[Newsletter]{href='https://www.whatsthebest.co.uk/newsletter-sign-up/' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener'} to keep up to date with more of the latest reviews and recommendations from the What's The Best team.

The best sim racing accessories

To effectively simulate a motor race at home, of all the constituent parts of a :a[sim racing rig]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-accessories/technology/best-sim-racing-setup/' }, no element bears greater dependence than the chair. It’s from the chair that your entire sim racing experience will take place – every crest, every bend, all the exultation and all the perspiration.

As with any other part of a sim racing setup, the more time and money invested into it, the more immersive experience is offered in return. However, if you’re building yours from the ground up and wish to focus most of your spending on a specific feature ASAP, we recommend channelling your efforts on the chair first.

Along with your racing seat, you may want to invest in some other racing kit to improve your drive. Check out our other articles on the best gloves, wheels and socks for :a[sim racing]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-accessories/technology/best-sim-racing-games/' }.

## How do racing chairs differ? {#h-how-do-racing-chairs-differ}

When it comes to new sim racing seats, there are a few important points to consider before buying. If you’re already a sim racing veteran and well-versed in the logistics of installing a racing seat into your home, the process of selecting an upgrade will be much easier. If this is your first time, here are some points to keep in mind:

When picking out your new seat, we strongly recommend measuring out the available space of your living room, bedroom or basement and then selecting accordingly.

Depending on the style of the seat, the entire unit could be anywhere from 60 to 160cm long, up to 50cm wide and 80cm tall. No one would want to perform a Cirque du Soleil contortionist act every time they have to get past, so your designated sim racing room should be commodious enough to comfortably accommodate the unit with enough enveloping space.

Measure twice and check the size of your racing seat before buying.

Along with the size of a seat, its weight should also factor into your selection process. Some seats are designed to be portable, easily moveable, or even collapsible to clear room space when not in use. Conversely, some racing chairs are so heavy that, once positioned, you’ll never want to move them again for as long as you live.

Figure out where your chair will reside first, determine whether its presence in that spot will be permanent or periodic and then buy accordingly.

Racing chairs are available in an array of different styles, based on the layout of the type of car one might find the seat in. For example, a Formula One-style chair would feature a reclined seat and raised pedals to better simulate the driving position of a top-flight pilot, while a rally-style seat would be positioned upright with flanking neck support.

Ultimately, your decision of style should come down to which sort of racing interests you, though there are many middle-ground examples out there fit to cater to most needs.

Not sure where to start with your sim racing seat decision? Here are a few of our favourites to help get you started.

**Fancy taking the immersion value of your sim racing to the next level? We've put together a list of the :a[best audio for sim racing]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-accessories/technology/audio-for-sim-racing/' } so you can.**

## What is direct drive? {#h-what-is-direct-drive}

It’s been mentioned here, but what is a direct drive wheel? It’s something that’s seen on the racing wheels used by serious sim racers (i.e., expensive ones). Most racing wheels are connected to the motor shaft via a belt, which helps give the wheel more torque than its motor can provide. By using a belt, the system negates the need for a more powerful motor and keeps costs down. For most users, it’s fine.

Direct drive wheels are connected directly to the motor shaft. The intention is to give the user much greater feedback and detail than a belt-driven system can provide. It works but requires a more powerful motor, which means a direct drive wheel is more expensive.

Read our reviews of the :a[Fanatec DD1]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-accessories/technology/fanatec-podium-dd1-review/' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer'} and :a[CSL]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-accessories/technology/cls-dd-review-fanatec-sim-race/' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer'} units to find out exactly how they perform.

### You can enjoy CAR in its traditional :a[print format]{href='https://www.greatmagazines.co.uk/car-magazine' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener'}, or one of the swelling number of :a[digital editions]{href='https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-news/magazine/digital-preview-of-the-new-issue-of-car-magazine/' }, optimised for Apple iPhones, Android devices, iPads, tablets and desktop computers. {#h-you-can-enjoy-car-in-its-traditional-print-format-or-one-of-the-swelling-number-of-digital-editions-optimised-for-apple-iphones-android-devices-ipads-tablets-and-desktop-computers}

The best sim racing seats 2023

The genre is vast and caters to any car fan's preferences. _Assetto Corsa Competizione_ and _iRacing_ for serious people; _GT Sport_, _Grid_ and _Forza_ for casual racers; _Dirt Rally 2.0_ for rally fans; _Need For Speed_ for boyracer and arcade fans. Whatever you want, there is a :a[racing game]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-accessories/technology/best-car-racing-games/' } for you.

If you've dabbled with rally games you'll know that they vary a lot. Just like the general racing genre, some rally games are aimed at serious sim racers while others are developed purely for fun. This article is all about the best rally games, and what we look for are rally games that not only perform brilliantly but cater for their target audience as well as possible.

## The best rallying games 2023 {#h-the-best-rallying-games-2023}

### For verdicts, scoops, news and analysis from the team, delivered direct to your inbox, subscribe to the :a[CAR newsletter]{href='https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-newsletter/' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer'}. {#h-for-verdicts-scoops-news-and-analysis-from-the-team-delivered-direct-to-your-inbox-subscribe-to-the-car-newsletter}

### You can enjoy CAR in its traditional :a[print format]{href='https://www.greatmagazines.co.uk/car-magazine' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer'}, or one of the swelling number of :a[digital editions]{href='https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-news/magazine/digital-preview-of-the-new-issue-of-car-magazine/' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer'}, optimised for Apple iPhones, Android devices, iPads, tablets and desktop computers. {#h-you-can-enjoy-car-in-its-traditional-print-format-or-one-of-the-swelling-number-of-digital-editions-optimised-for-apple-iphones-android-devices-ipads-tablets-and-desktop-computers}

The best rally games 2023

Car and :a[garage security]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/commuters/security/best-garage-security/' } seems to be an increasing worry for many people, with more horror stories being shared across social media of cars being swiped it makes more sense than ever to invest in a home CCTV system. After all, successfully solved crimes tend to be those captured by either dash cam setups or from people's CCTV cameras. Simply because raw footage provides a sweet little thing called evidence.

It isn’t the sole recommendation for securing your car. Because it’s also worth investing in physical ways to keep your vehicle locked up tight, such as :a[steering wheel locks]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/commuters/security/best-steering-wheel-locks/' } or blocking the relay signal used by thieves. There are a number of layers of security you can opt for, but one solution isn't going to cover everything.

Nevertheless, CCTV footage may prove valuable one day if either you or one of your neighbours finds themselves in that horror story and we've found the best.

### The best home CCTV systems at a glance

**Editor's pick:** Hiseeu Wireless PTZ Home Security System - :a[buy from Amazon.]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0B3MPTZ3M/cararticle520-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
**The best value system:** Sannce Wireless CCTV System - :a[buy from Amazon.]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/SANNCE-Wireless-Recorder-Security-Wheather/dp/B06VTHXDY7/cararticle520-21?th=1' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
**The best equipped:** Zosi 8CH 1080p Security Camera Setup - :a[buy from Amazon.]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/ZOSI-Channel-Security-Surveillance-Secueity/dp/B016ZPFO5Y/cararticle520-21?th=1' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

### What should I consider when buying a home CCTV system?

Perhaps obviously, the number one priority is how much you can see. The range that either an infrared or full-colour night vision camera has along with angle adjustments is everything. After all, if you need to submit any footage to the police, the greater quality, the better. For optimum lighting and vision, investing in a :a[set of outdoor floodlights]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-accessories/technology/best-outdoor-floodlights/' } may be worth considering.

One way of finding out is looking at footage from said cameras, and seeing how well you can read the registration plates of a car across the street. Or at the very least, clearly identify the make, model, trim and colour. CCTV cameras will never be as clear as a dedicated photography/video camera but you should be able to see enough.

Another handy thing to bear in mind is storage. Home CCTV cameras constantly record footage 24/7, so you'll need a lot of space if you need to save clips. Some systems have a H265+ compression which tightens down the amount of data those clips take while providing better quality. If the system has H264+ compression - a more standard form - more space will be taken up.

### Should I worry about monthly subscriptions?

In most cases, manufacturers of home CCTV systems won't have one. This is probably due to the manufacturers becoming competitive of each other and trying to offer the best deal. But always check the small print at the bottom of the item listing.

However, CCTV cameras differ slightly from :a[outdoor security cameras.]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-accessories/technology/best-outdoor-security-cameras/' } The latter is available in a number of smart guises and will require monthly subscriptions in order to save and share your clips. The main difference is that outdoor security cameras are part of a smart home setup and enables you to actively talk to visitors from paired devices. CCTVs are more standardised as far as monitoring your home goes and almost always require a wired installation.

**_:a[Aaron Hussain]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/author/aaron-hussain/' } is a commercial content writer at Bauer Media writing for Parkers and CAR. He is obsessed with classic cars and anything with a fascinating story to tell._**

### For verdicts, scoops, news and analysis from the team, delivered direct to your inbox, subscribe to the :a[CAR newsletter]{href='https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-newsletter/' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener'}. {#h-for-verdicts-scoops-news-and-analysis-from-the-team-delivered-direct-to-your-inbox-subscribe-to-the-car-newsletter}

### You can enjoy CAR in its traditional :a[print format]{href='https://go.skimresources.com/?id=31715X1588124&amp;isjs=1&amp;jv=15.2.1-stackpath&amp;sref=https%3A%2F%2Fproducts.carmagazine.co.uk%2Fcar-accessories%2Fgifts%2Fbest-road-mat%2F&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.greatmagazines.co.uk%2Fcar-magazine&amp;xs=1&amp;xtz=0&amp;xuuid=e37d7a605acc93d8e23192290a5281b8&amp;xjsf=other_click__auxclick%20%5B2%5D' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener'}, or one of the swelling number of :a[digital editions]{href='https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-news/magazine/digital-preview-of-the-new-issue-of-car-magazine/' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener'}, optimised for Apple iPhones, Android devices, iPads, tablets and desktop computers. {#h-you-can-enjoy-car-in-its-traditional-print-format-or-one-of-the-swelling-number-of-digital-editions-optimised-for-apple-iphones-android-devices-ipads-tablets-and-desktop-computers}

The best home CCTV systems

Why is looking for the best Faraday and RFID key pouches important? Well, with keyless car tech, there inevitably come keyless car thefts. An increasingly common form of car theft involves criminals using relay signals that mimic those that come from key fobs to unlock and start cars.

You can opt for existing security measures exist such as :a[car wheel clamps]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/commuters/security/best-wheel-clamps/' } which can physically keep your car nailed to the ground. However, there have been scary cases where premium cars such as Range Rovers and Mercs have been swiped in under a minute. The no.1 method for criminals is relay signals, so being able to block that can prevent a nightmarish situation. Which neatly brings us onto the convenience of RFID key pouches.

The brilliant thing is that they don't incorporate the bulky hassle of :a[a steering wheel lock]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/commuters/security/best-steering-wheel-locks/' }. The solution simply involves keeping your key fob in a protective Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), signal-blocking pouch or box. These effectively act as a Faraday cage. No signal, no keyless car theft.

### The best RFID key pouches at a glance:

**Editor's pick:** Disklabs Key Shield - :a[buy from Amazon.]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Disklabs-Key-Shield-KS1-Faraday/dp/B073JNWH83?tag=cararticle48-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener'}  
**The best compact pouch:** Defender Signal Blocker Mini - :a[buy from Amazon.]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Car-Key-Signal-Blocker-Pouch/dp/B08T246ZBH/?tag=cararticle48-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener'}  
**Best RFID box:** Monojoy Faraday Box - :a[buy from Amazon.]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07YBVJ9RM?tag=cararticle48-21&amp;th=1' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener'}

## The best RFID key pouches {#h-the-best-rfid-key-pouches}

## How does RFID tech work? {#h-how-does-rfid-tech-work}

RFID pouches and Faraday bags work by incorporating certain materials such as copper or aluminium foil into the bag or pouch. A layer of aluminium foil, for example, blocks all signals to wireless devices being kept inside them. These include phone networks such as 5G, Wi-Fi, GPS, and Bluetooth. They are as subtle as a :a[well-hidden magnetic tracker]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-accessories/technology/best-magnetic-car-trackers/' } in your vehicle.

Consequently, key fobs and other devices are kept safe inside and no relay signal can be produced. It sounds a bit Prepper-ish and conjures images of idiots wrapped in tin foil, building home bunkers beneath their geraniums. Nevertheless, the foil trick works for signal blocking. And thankfully, you can buy some quality products that tactfully hide the survivalist foil beneath a neat layer of fabric.

Our top tip in recommending the best RFID and Faraday product is not to be sucked into the ‘I’m not paying an extra £5 for one that looks the same as the cheap ones’ trick. We’ve found the super-budget ones aren’t always consistent in blocking signals, unlike those that come from established, recognized brands. If it keeps your £40,000 Lexus safe, only a fool would complain about an extra few pounds. For an extra layer of protection - and to potentially lower your insurance premium - you can also consider :a[installing your car with a tracker.]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-accessories/technology/car-trackers-guide/' }

_**Chris Williams is a Senior Product Writer for CAR, also working for Live For The Outdoors. An expert in camping and muscle cars, he spends most of his time up a mountain or laying rubber.**_

### For verdicts, scoops, news and analysis from the team, delivered direct to your inbox, subscribe to the :a[CAR newsletter]{href='https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-newsletter/' }. {#h-for-verdicts-scoops-news-and-analysis-from-the-team-delivered-direct-to-your-inbox-subscribe-to-the-car-newsletter}

### You can enjoy CAR in its traditional :a[print format]{href='https://www.greatmagazines.co.uk/car-magazine' }, or one of the swelling number of :a[digital editions]{href='https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-news/magazine/digital-preview-of-the-new-issue-of-car-magazine/' }, optimised for Apple iPhones, Android devices, iPads, tablets and desktop computers. {#h-you-can-enjoy-car-in-its-traditional-print-format-or-one-of-the-swelling-number-of-digital-editions-optimised-for-apple-iphones-android-devices-ipads-tablets-and-desktop-computers}

_Just so you know, whilst we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this website, we never allow this to influence product selections -_ :a[read why you should trust us]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/about-us' }.

The best Faraday and RFID key pouches

In a recent corded versus cordless :a[car vac]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-maintenance/car-care/best-car-vacuum-cleaner/' } experiment, we found that corded vacuums were superior in terms of price, robustness, power, and performance. It was a one-sided affair, like the :a[Lancia Delta]{href='https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-reviews/used-cars/icon-buyer-new-audi-s1-or-used-lancia-hf-delta-integrale-car-june-2016/' } Group A rally car in WRC during the late eighties and early nineties.

In pursuing this line of champions, we've focused solely on corded vacuums and recommended our top five for car cleaning. This isn't to say that these are vacuum cleaners that are only any good for car cleaning. Most of our favourites are wet and dry units that can be used in the garage, garden shed, and patio too.

Related: :a[How to properly vacuum your car]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-maintenance/car-care/car-vacuuming-guide/' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer'}

## The best corded vacuum cleaners for car cleaning {#h-the-best-corded-vacuum-cleaners-for-car-cleaning}

:a[The best wet and dry vacuum cleaners for your garage]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-maintenance/car-care/best-wet-and-dry-vacuum-cleaner/' }

:a[Vax SpotWash Spot Cleaner review: Better than a vacuum cleaner?]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-maintenance/car-care/vax-spotwash-review/' }

:a[The best way to clean and organise your garage]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-maintenance/car-care/how-to-clean-your-garage/' }

The best corded vacuums for car cleaning

The single best way to improve your car washing routine is to invest in the best pressure washer possible. Using a water pump to build pressure and fire it through a nozzle, a pressure washer provides a strong jet of water that's perfect for blasting away dirt without damaging the surface you're meant to be cleaning.

Pressure washers used to be fairly big investment pieces, but now there are plenty of :a[pressure washer deals]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-maintenance/car-care/best-pressure-washer-deals/' } available. They may not have all the fancy bells and whistles of premium models, but they'll still deliver better car cleaning, all while using less water than a conventional garden hose.

It's not just car care where a good pressure washer can be useful; patios, garden furniture and even your garden shed can be cleaned thoroughly using a powerful jet of water. Most manufacturers will even offer :a[pressure washer accessories]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-maintenance/car-care/best-pressure-washer-attachments/' } that are designed to specifically tackle gardens.

## The best pressure washers at a glance:

**Best for powerful cleaning (Editor's pick):** Nilfisk Core 140 Pressure Washer - :a[Buy now from Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Nilfisk-128471254-Pressure-Washer-Control/dp/B08KYHZLRK?tag=cararticle6-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
**Best pressure washer for car care:** Ava Smart P50 - :a[Buy now from Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/AVA-P50-Furniture-Zero-Force-Follow-Me/dp/B0932N7K87?tag=cararticle6-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
**Best compact pressure washer:** Bosch EasyAquatak 110 - :a[Buy now from Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Bosch-EasyAquatak-High-Pressure-Washer/dp/B079RLT5VQ?tag=cararticle6-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

We're breaking down the best pressure washers with a sharp focus on car care. Each included pressure washer will effectively blast away dirt and grime but won't be so powerful they'll strip away protection or even paintwork. Whether you're after an upgrade or your first foray into the world of pressure washers, pick up one of our favourite pressure washers for car care.

## The best pressure washers for cars {#h-the-best-pressure-washers-for-cars}

## Car pressure washers: What you need to know {#h-car-pressure-washers-what-you-need-to-know}

### What features should I look for? {#h-what-features-should-i-look-for}

There's more to buying a car pressure washer than simply choosing the :a[cheapest pressure washer]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-maintenance/car-care/best-budget-pressure-washers/' } possible. Too much pressure, and you could strip the paint from the bodywork. Too little pressure, and you'd be better off with a wash mitt and bucket. An ideal unit will enable you to select a nozzle setting that's appropriate for washing a car. A pressure washer that comes with a lance with adjustable pressure, foam gun, or brush makes the whole exercise faster and more effective. Also, consider that you'll need to store the product. :a[Compact pressure washers]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-maintenance/car-care/best-compact-pressure-washers/' } are an increasingly popular choice.

You need to consider the proximity to a power supply. Check the length of the power cord and hose before adding a pressure washer to your basket. Most units work from a standard hosepipe, but others can draw water from almost any container, including rainwater collected in a butt or bucket. These are ideal if you haven't got access to a tap.

Finally, you should take into account the flow rate and pressure. A higher flow rate will ensure you're not spending too long cleaning the car, while a higher pressure will make it easier to remove dirt and grime. As a guide, 110 to 130 maximum bar should be fine for most people, without the fear of damaging your precious paintwork.

### How often should I use it? {#h-how-often-should-i-use-it}

Every time you wash your car, if you want your money's worth. Used correctly, a pressure washer is the fastest way to wash a car. It will remove dirt, grime and mud without damaging the paintwork and remove soap suds without leaving a residue. In short, it'll give you a very deep clean every time you use it.

### What grade of pressure washer should I go for? {#h-what-grade-of-pressure-washer-should-i-go-for}

There are different variants of pressure washers that are designed for different tasks. If you want to wash your car and maybe give your patio a jet wash every now and again, you'll be fine with a **light-duty** pressure washer such as the Bosch EasyAquatak 110 or Worx Hydroshot.

**Medium-duty** options such as the Nilfisk Core 140 and Karcher K4 Power Control will make cleaning larger areas quicker. You only really need one of these if you have other suitable jobs in mind in addition to car cleaning.

**Heavy-duty** options can be very expensive but clean just about anything, including moss-ridden static homes. These pressure washers can even come with petrol engines, which are for commercial use and overkill for most domestic applications. The Karcher K7 Premium or equivalent Nilfisk Premium 180-10 is as heavy-duty as domestic users need to go.

### What else can I use a pressure washer for? {#h-what-else-can-i-use-a-pressure-washer-for}

After you've cleaned your car, you can turn your pressure washer onto pretty much anything outdoors. Fence panels, sheds, patios, and even garden chairs can be cleaned with a pressure washer. If they're looking grimy, you can easily blast away the caked-on mud and moss. It's really satisfying to cut through years of dirt in seconds.

_:a[Ryan Gilmore]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/author/ryan-gilmore/' } is the Deputy Autos and Tools Editor for CAR, specialising in car cleaning and hand tools. With an MA in Automotive Journalism, when he's not testing buckets he can be found looking at old Porsches._

Using a pressure washer to remove mud from a Jeep

The best pressure washers for car care

Taking the time to :a[protect a car's paintwork]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-maintenance/car-care/paint-protection-for-diy/' } is futile if you don't invest in some black trim restorer. Black plastic trim is incredibly popular on everything from vans to premium SUVs and is particularly susceptible to sun damage. Over time, the sun breaks down the pigments in the trim, turning that black into a sad flat-grey colour that cheapens the look of an otherwise immaculate car.

Black trim restorer works like a :a[car wax]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-maintenance/car-care/the-best-car-wax/' }, providing a barrier against the sun and enhancing the finish. Often made of a blend of silicones, black pigment (often carbon) and UV protectors, black trim restorer may not be a permanent fix, but will noticeably improve the look of your car for up to a year, or even longer if you introduce ceramic into the mix.

As the sun breaks down the pigments in a car's trim, there is no way of properly restoring this without either properly (and expensively) restoring the trim or buying a whole new trim piece. As such, these coatings are your best bet for improving the overall look of your car, and we've found the best.

## The best black trim restorer {#h-the-best-black-trim-restorer}

## The best black trim restorer: what you need to know {#h-the-best-black-trim-restorer-what-you-need-to-know}

### How does black trim restorer work? {#h-how-does-black-trim-restorer-work}

Each example works slightly differently but they all follow the same basic concept. Apply some of the product to an applicator, rub it into the desired area and wait for it to dry. Once it has, buff it and remove any excess product with a :a[microfibre towel]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-maintenance/car-care/best-car-drying-towels-uk/' }.

Most examples will use some form of silicone and UV filters to provide a layer of protection, often relying on carbon to darken the plastics through a process of repigmentation.

### Can I use black trim restorer on coloured trims? {#h-can-i-use-black-trim-restorer-on-coloured-trims}

The majority of these products are specifically formulated for black trim pieces which may give you a poor finish if you apply it to painted trim pieces. If the coloured trim is looking tired then it's probably time to look at polishing it.

### What about chrome and other bare metal surfaces? {#h-what-about-chrome-and-other-bare-metal-surfaces}

Again, using a black trim restorer on chrome or other metal trim will more than likely result in a dreadful finish. Look at getting some proper metal polish if you want shiny metalwork.

### Can I use peanut butter as a black trim restorer?

An old wife's tale sadly, peanut butter (or oil) will provide a short-term darkening of a car's trim, but it won't restore the trim and it certainly won't provide any UV protection. We say, save the peanut butter for your stomach.

### :a[Ryan Gilmore]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/author/ryan-gilmore/' } is the Deputy Autos and Tool Editor for CAR and Parkers, specialising in car cleaning and hand tools. He also contributes to What's The Best.

### For verdicts, scoops, news and analysis from the team , delivered direct to your inbox, subscribe to the :a[CAR newsletter]{href='https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-newsletter/' }. {#h-for-verdicts-scoops-news-and-analysis-from-the-team-delivered-direct-to-your-inbox-subscribe-to-the-car-newsletter}

The faded black grille of a Land Rover Defender 

The best black trim restorer to freshen up your car 2023

For some, car washing is a chore, for others, it’s an essential ritual of the best car cleaning products available. The ability to visually transform a tired and neglected car into one that has a mirror-like finish and could quite happily outshine a diamond.

It's not just some extra gloss in the paintwork that'll make picking the best car cleaning products in your best interest either. Using a :a[good prewash]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-maintenance/car-care/best-car-pre-wash/' } will help reduce the chances of scratches and swirls forming in the paintwork, while a good shampoo will keep your cars clearcoat in working order, an important layer that helps prevent rust.

## The best car cleaning products shortlist:

**The best snow foam:** Bilt Hamber Auto Foam - :a[Buy now on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B07NZF6BVH/' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
**The best pre-wash:** Autobrite Direct Citrus Wash Multi Purpose Cleaner - :a[Buy now on EuroCarParts]{href='https://www.eurocarparts.com/p/autobrite-citrus-wash-multi-purpose-cleaner-1ltr-552983430' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
**The best car shampoo:** Gtechniq Auto W1 GWash Cleaner - :a[Buy now on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00IOMMJT6/?tag=cararticle10-21&amp;th=1' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
**The best wheel cleaner:** Bilt Hamber Auto Wheel Cleaner - :a[Buy now on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Bilt-Hamber-Cleaner-Removes-AUTOWHEEL1LTR/dp/B07JF2C2QL?tag=cararticle10-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
**The best fallout remover:** 26JPN Fallout - :a[Buy now on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07XVJ9PRV/?tag=cararticle10-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
**The best all-purpose cleaner:** Bilt Hamber Surfex HD - :a[Buy now on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Bilt-Hamber-Surfex-HD-Litre/dp/B007FR41D8/?tag=cararticle10-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

We're big believers in the power of keeping your car clean yourself. The drive-through car wash uses harsh chemicals that can dull paint over time and will pummel your car with nylon brushes leaving plenty of scratches. A nice soft set of :a[detailing brushes]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-maintenance/car-care/best-car-detailing-brushes/' } and gentle cleaning chemicals will be far more useful. That's why we've been working so hard to save your paint (and pocket) with our favourite car cleaning products.

## The best car cleaning products {#h-the-best-car-cleaning-products}

## Car cleaning products: what you need to know

With an armful of car cleaning products now in your arsenal, it's almost time to get cleaning. Question is, what do you tackle first? Prewash sounds like it should go on first, but what about tackling the wheels? Getting the process correct is internal to getting that gleaming car in all its glory. Thankfully, we have a full :a[guide to cleaning your car]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-maintenance/car-care/car-cleaning-guide/' }.

### What to look for when choosing car cleaning products:

**Cleaning** **strength** \- Not all car cleaning is equal. A seriously filthy car will need a stronger cleaning attack than one that's cleaned every week. Cleaning products come in different strengths depending on how dirty the car is. After all, you wouldn't reach for the bleach for every bathroom cleaning chore.

**Dilution** \- Most car cleaning products will be concentrated in some form. This is good news for your pocket and storing the car cleaning products. A small bottle of cleaner will last you ages and save you cash if it's concentrated, even if it costs more than a big bottle of shampoo you'll need to use neat.

**Ecological impact** \- It's increasingly clear that nasty non-biodegradable chemicals aren't needed for cleaning, especially as there's no performance disadvantage. :a[Eco-friendly car shampoos]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-maintenance/car-care/best-eco-car-shampoos/' } in particular are increasingly popular.

**Scent** \- By no means an essential part of overall performance, a pleasant scent will make cleaning a lot nicer. Scents range from normal (fruits) to zany options including :a[beer-scented shampoos]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Chemical-Guys-CWS21116-Scent-Cleanser/dp/B07L6PHHF7?tag=cararticle10-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}.

### Ryan Gilmore is the Deputy Autos and Tool Editor for CAR and Parkers, specialising in car cleaning and hand tools. He also contributes to What's The Best.

### You can enjoy CAR in its traditional :a[print format]{href='https://www.greatmagazines.co.uk/car-magazine' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener nofollow'}, or one of the swelling number of :a[digital editions]{href='https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-news/magazine/digital-preview-of-the-new-issue-of-car-magazine/' }, optimised for Apple iPhones, Android devices, iPads, tablets and desktop computers. {#h-you-can-enjoy-car-in-its-traditional-print-format-or-one-of-the-swelling-number-of-digital-editions-optimised-for-apple-iphones-android-devices-ipads-tablets-and-desktop-computers}

car washing a Ford Mustang with car cleaning product

The best car cleaning products 2023

If you’ve got your car in storage or sitting idle on the drive, you’ll want to keep the battery drip-fed pulses of electricity with a budget car :a[battery charger]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-maintenance/car-care/car-battery-chargers/' }. This will improve your battery life and avoid replacements that could be costly. A lot of battery chargers will have the ability to diagnose any suspected problem. Some can even solve issues in your battery to help you extend its life.

When purchasing a battery charger, your engine size and your battery size are things to consider. What is your battery made of, and how does it work? They’re not all the same, so do some research into whether the battery charger you’re purchasing is compatible with your car.

If your car is an automatic start/stop, the battery will differ from a car that isn’t a stop/start. You will need a charger specific to your battery. You can read about the best car batteries in our :a[expert guide here]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-maintenance/car-care/best-car-battery/' }.

## Best budget car battery charger under £50 at a glance:

**Editor's choice:** Ring Automotive RSC808 - :a[Buy now from Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Ring-Automotive-RSC808-Battery-Charger/dp/B087ZGVK6L/tag=cararticle380-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

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