16 Old-Fashioned Auto Accessories That Have Vanished
Take a nostalgic trip through 16 auto accessories that once filled cars but have now vanished from modern vehicles.
- Chris Graciano
- 4 min read
Long ago, cars came with unusual attachments. Over time, changing preferences, technological improvements, and safety laws rendered them obsolete. These now-extinct vehicle accessories may no longer be on the road, but they live on in memory.
1. Car Antennas You Had to Pull Up Manually
Zuzu on Wikimedia Commons
Long before shark fins and hidden antennas, drivers had to remember to extend these metal rods by hand. They bent easily and often broke at the base. Reception was hit or miss, especially in bad weather.
2. Bench Front Seats
cottonbro studio on Pexels
Once standard in family sedans and pickups, these long, sofa-like seats allowed for a third person in the front row. While roomy, they offered little support or separation.
3. Hood Ornaments
Mr.TinMD on Flickr
Emblems like the Rolls-Royce Spirit of Ecstasy or the Mercedes star once stood proudly atop hoods. They gave cars character and a touch of luxury. Unfortunately, they became theft targets and posed pedestrian safety risks.
4. Static Cling Sunshades
OppidumNissenae on Wikimedia Commons
Often cartoon-themed or basic black mesh, these window clings were meant to block out sunlight. They worked — barely — but often bubbled or peeled over time.
5. Clip-On Fan Blowers
Iadirmiz on Wikimedia Commons
Before modern air conditioning was common, drivers clipped mini fans to the dash or vents. These plastic devices buzzed loudly and barely cooled anything. Still, they offered some relief during scorching summers.
6. Beaded Seat Cushions
M.rJirapat on Wikimedia Commons
Popular with cab drivers and long-haul commuters, these wooden-bead seat covers were thought to improve airflow. They added a massage-like feel on bumpy roads but weren’t very stylish.
7. Steering Wheel Knob (Suicide Knob)
John Gateley on Flickr
This round knob allowed for quick, one-handed turning — perfect for tight parking jobs. While handy, it posed a hazard in accidents and was even outlawed in some states.
8. Ashtrays in Every Door Panel
CZmarlin on Wikimedia Commons
Older cars had ashtrays not just in the front, but in every door for rear passengers too. Some even included lighters in the back. As smoking declined, these features slowly disappeared.
9. Floor-Mounted Dimmer Switches
Wesley Tingey on Unsplash
Drivers used to control their headlights’ high beams with a foot pedal on the floor. It was an odd, almost industrial setup that felt satisfying to stomp. However, it could be confusing and was hard to reach in newer car layouts.
10. Trunk-Mounted Luggage Racks
FelixWong
Before SUVs and roof cargo boxes, many sedans came with metal racks attached to the trunk. They held suitcases or coolers during road trips. While functional, they were clunky and hard to use.
11. Window Crank Handles
Wesha on Wikimedia Commons
Cranking your windows open and closed by hand was standard on most cars before the 2000s. These little handles broke often and were a chore during rainstorms.
12. Fuzzy Steering Wheel Covers
Alexandra Folster on Pexels
Thick, plush covers gave steering wheels a cozy, winter-ready look. They came in everything from faux fur to neon patterns. While comfy, they often slipped and made gripping harder.
13. Dashboard Tissue Dispensers
Diana Polekhina on Unsplash
Mounted near the glove box or in custom holders, these boxes were handy for sneezes and spills. They added a touch of home comfort to your ride. Over time, they became cluttered and lost their charm.
14. Curb Feelers
drburtoni on Flickr
Thin, spring-loaded wires that stuck out near your tires, curb feelers helped drivers avoid scraping their wheels. When they touched the curb, they made a telltale scratching sound.
15. Aftermarket Car Alarms with Talking Voices
Imencar on Wikimedia Commons
Some cars yelled at you with robotic voices: “Step away from the vehicle!” It felt futuristic at the time, but quickly became annoying. They were more of a novelty than a real theft deterrent.
16. Rear Window Louvers
GillyBerlin on Flickr
Slatted covers over the rear glass were designed to reduce glare and protect interiors from the sun. They also gave cars a sporty, muscle-car vibe. However, they were difficult to clean under and affected visibility.