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March 4, 2025Glasgow police have urged drivers to stay vigilant about the accessories they use in their cars.
Drivers enjoy customisation and modifying their vehicles, and a lot of the time, this is fine, so long as it is done correctly and safely.
Unfortunately, with the constant rise of social media and viral online videos, more and more drivers, young and old, are being influenced into buying products that are not fit for purpose.
Whilst it may seem harmless at first, the dangers of shoddy products are underestimated. Anything that can interfere with a driver’s control of the vehicle is seen as extremely dangerous, and if found by police could result in large fines.
Such modifications can also lead to violations of the Highway Code and UK laws. With more drivers jumping on the customisation bandwagon, both the public and authorities must be aware of the risks posed by shoddy car accessories.
Why Faulty Car Accessories are becoming a bigger concern
Faulty car accessories are becoming a bigger concern, and a lot of it has to do with the rise of platforms like TikTok Shop.
Influencers are driving the trend, showcasing all sorts of fun and quirky accessories, which can make it tempting to make impulse buys.
Many of these products – like fluffy steering wheel covers or flashy decals – can actually pose serious risks.
What’s worrying is that as more drivers get caught up in the hype of viral trends, they might not realise the potential dangers. The more people that buy into these impulse purchases, the higher the chance something could go wrong, leading to accidents or fines.
What Glasgow Police are Doing to Keep Dangerous Modifications in Check
Police in Paisley, Glasgow, and across the UK are taking action against dangerous car modifications through a combination of roadside enforcement and public education.
In Glasgow, officers routinely monitor vehicle modifications during traffic stops and targeted operations, aiming to identify and address unsafe alterations.
These checks focus primarily on illegal modifications such as altered exhausts and non-compliant body kits but also extend to smaller interior accessories that could compromise safety.
Police work closely with vehicle inspection teams to assess whether aftermarket accessories pose a hazard.
Beyond enforcement, Glasgow Police are committed to raising awareness about the risks of poorly regulated car modifications, encouraging drivers to make safe and legal choices to help maintain road safety.
The Most Common Unsafe Car Accessories
Let’s start with the obvious one,.. fluffy steering wheel covers. These reduce grip and control, making driving more dangerous. The solution? Don’t get one.
Excessive dashboard decorations, including bulky phone holders and dangling air fresheners, can obstruct visibility, so it’s best to keep the dashboard clear and use compact, well-placed mounts. Police have been known to advise drivers to take down dangling air fresheners.
Car mats are another one. They’re essential for keeping your vehicle’s interior clean and protected, but buying from a reliable retailer is equally as important for safety. They need to fit securely, with anti-slip backing or clips to keep them firmly in place.
With car mats don’t go for a one-size-fits-all approach. If you’re sourcing a good brand, they will have Ford Fiesta car mats, Volkswagen Polo, KIA Sorento, you name it. Shop with care whenever you’re looking for car accessories and only buy from reputable brands.
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