5 ways to make your old car feel new again
With a few smart upgrades, even a 15-year-old Axio or Allion can feel and look far newer than it really is. These improvements are meant to help you rediscover the excitement of driving a car that feels fresh and enjoyable again
In Bangladesh, most cars we buy are not brand new. They have already spent three to five years on Japanese roads before arriving here as reconditioned imports. For a long time, that made sense because you got a reliable car in good condition without paying the price of a new one.
However, in recent times, prices of vehicles have changed dramatically. A 2020 Toyota Axio now costs around Tk25 lakh, which is beyond the scope of many first car buyers. Thus, this has led many buyers to look for options in the used car market. These cars, averaging between 15 to 25 years old, are still solid, especially if they have been maintained.
Unfortunately, when it comes to vehicles, their age gets evident. The paint loses its shine, the interior looks tired, and the technology feels outdated.
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The good news is that an old car does not have to feel old. With a few smart upgrades, even a 15-year-old Axio or Allion can feel and look far newer than it really is. These improvements are not about showing off. They are about rediscovering the excitement of driving a car that feels fresh and enjoyable again.
1. Install a large Android player
Upgrading the infotainment system is one of the quickest ways to modernise your car. Most older Japanese imports come with factory head units that are basic and limited in functionality. They might still work, but they look out of place in a modern cabin.
Installing a large Android player brings the dashboard to life. You gain navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, a reverse camera, and support for Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. Most 9-inch units fit well into older dashboards and prices start at around Tk6,000. The difference is immediate. The car feels modern, more usable, and far more enjoyable on longer drives.
Price starts at: Tk6,000
2. Go for a fresh set of wheels
New wheels can completely change how a car looks. Older cars often carry rims that are scratched, faded, or outdated. A fresh set of alloys can give the car a sharper, sportier stance and make it look more current.
It is important to stick to the original rim size and tyre specifications. This keeps your ride comfortable and within BRTA compliance. You do not need oversized wheels to make a statement. Even subtle changes to design or finish can make the car look years younger. A decent set of alloys starts at around Tk18,000 and is a small investment for the visual impact it creates.
Price starts at: Tk18,000
3. Repaint the car for a fresh look
If your car's paint has dulled or accumulated scratches, a proper repaint can make a dramatic difference. Years of Dhaka's dust, rain, and city traffic take a toll on the finish. A new coat restores the depth of colour and gives the car a clean, polished appearance.
You can stick with the original colour or try something bold like navy blue or metallic grey. A repaint starts at around Tk50,000 depending on the prep work and paint quality. If you change the colour, it is important to update the registration papers. A fresh paint job is one of the most noticeable ways to make a car feel younger.
Price starts at: Tk50,000
4. Ceramic coating and interior detailing
If a full repaint feels too expensive, detailing and ceramic coating can bring almost the same effect. Ceramic coating restores shine, protects the paint from minor scratches and UV damage, and keeps the car looking clean longer.
Interior detailing removes dirt and grime from carpets, seats, and the dashboard, leaving the cabin smelling fresh and looking well maintained. A full detailing package starts at around Tk7,000 and the transformation is remarkable. The car feels refreshed both inside and out, and that sense of cleanliness instantly makes it more enjoyable to drive.
Price starts at: Tk7,000
5. New interior fabrics and padding
Seats and interior trim show a car's age more than anything else. Fabric fades, foam loses shape, and door panels or roof linings wear over time. Replacing seat covers, carpets, and padding restores comfort and gives the cabin a completely new feel.
You can choose synthetic leather for easy cleaning or cloth for a more original look. Some workshops allow custom stitching or colour combinations for a subtle upgrade. Prices start around Tk10,000 depending on material and design. Upgrading the interior is a tactile change that makes a car feel modern and inviting every time you sit inside.
Price starts at: Tk10,000
