The U.S. Exterior Car Accessories Market size was estimated at USD 8.5 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 16 billion by 2030, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.50% during the forecast period (2024-2030).

U.S. Exterior Car Accessories Market

Market Summary

The U.S. exterior car accessories market is a dynamic and evolving segment within the broader automotive aftermarket industry. It encompasses a wide array of products designed to enhance the aesthetic appeal, functionality, and protection of vehicles. Key product categories include car covers, spoilers, grilles, running boards, exterior lighting, window tints, and body kits, among others. The market is primarily driven by vehicle owners seeking to personalize their cars and trucks, improve performance, and increase resale value. Consumers range from individual car enthusiasts to commercial fleet operators, all contributing to steady demand. The distribution landscape is diverse, comprising online retailers, specialty stores, and automotive dealerships, with e-commerce gaining significant traction. The market is characterized by continuous innovation, with manufacturers introducing new materials and technologies to meet changing consumer preferences and stringent regulatory standards. The competitive environment is intense, with both established players and new entrants vying for market share through product differentiation, quality, and brand reputation.

Key Highlights

The U.S. exterior car accessories market is distinguished by several key factors that underscore its vitality and growth potential. A prominent trend is the increasing consumer inclination towards vehicle customization, which fuels demand for personalized aesthetic and functional enhancements. Technological advancements play a crucial role, with the integration of LED and OLED lighting in accessories becoming increasingly common, offering improved durability and energy efficiency. Another significant highlight is the rising popularity of off-road and sport utility vehicles, which drives demand for rugged accessories like bull bars, roof racks, and skid plates. The market also benefits from the growing do-it-yourself culture among vehicle owners, supported by the availability of installation tutorials and easy-to-install product designs. Furthermore, environmental considerations are gaining traction, leading to the development of eco-friendly products made from sustainable materials. The competitive intensity is high, with companies focusing on strategic partnerships, mergers, and acquisitions to expand their product portfolios and geographic reach.

Drivers, Opportunities & Restraints

The growth of the U.S. exterior car accessories market is propelled by several key drivers. A primary driver is the increasing consumer desire for vehicle personalization and aesthetics, which encourages spending on accessories that enhance visual appeal and individuality. The rising average age of vehicles on the road also contributes to market growth, as owners invest in protective accessories to maintain their cars' condition and value. Additionally, the robust sales of light trucks and SUVs, which are often accessorized for both style and utility, provide a significant boost to the market. Opportunities abound in the form of technological integration, such as the development of smart accessories with connectivity features, and the expansion of e-commerce platforms that make products more accessible to a broader audience. However, the market faces certain restraints, including economic fluctuations that can dampen consumer discretionary spending. Stringent government regulations regarding vehicle modifications and safety standards also pose challenges, potentially limiting the adoption of certain accessory types. Furthermore, the presence of low-quality, counterfeit products in the market can erode consumer trust and impact sales of genuine, high-quality accessories.

Concentration Insights

The competitive landscape of the U.S. exterior car accessories market is characterized by a mix of large multinational corporations and smaller specialized firms. Market concentration is moderate, with leading players such as Lund International, Truck Hero, and Covercraft Industries holding significant shares due to their extensive product portfolios and strong brand recognition. These companies often leverage their distribution networks and marketing prowess to maintain a competitive edge. However, the market also features a substantial number of niche players and regional manufacturers that cater to specific product segments or consumer preferences, such as off-road accessories or classic car parts. The presence of these smaller companies ensures a diverse and innovative product offering. The market is further influenced by private label brands offered by major retailers, which compete on price and availability. Mergers and acquisitions are a common strategy for larger firms seeking to consolidate their market position and expand into new product categories or geographic regions.

Type Insights

The U.S. exterior car accessories market is segmented by product type, each catering to distinct consumer needs and preferences. Car covers represent a significant category, driven by the need for vehicle protection against environmental elements like sun, rain, and dust. Spoilers and wings are popular among performance enthusiasts seeking improved aerodynamics and a sporty appearance. Grilles are another key segment, with consumers opting for custom designs to enhance front-end aesthetics and, in some cases, improve engine cooling. Running boards and side steps are highly sought after for SUVs and trucks, providing easier entry and exit while adding a rugged look. Exterior lighting, including LED light bars and halo headlights, is a rapidly growing segment due to advancements in technology and demand for better visibility and style. Other notable types include window visors, bug shields, and body side moldings, each serving specific protective or aesthetic functions. The diversity in product types ensures that the market can address a wide spectrum of consumer demands, from practical protection to high-performance enhancements.

Application Insights

The application of exterior car accessories in the U.S. market varies widely across different vehicle types and user segments. Passenger cars constitute a major application area, with owners frequently adding accessories like spoilers, custom grilles, and alloy wheels to enhance style and personalization. The light truck and SUV segment is particularly significant, as these vehicles are commonly accessorized for both aesthetic and functional purposes. Products such as roof racks, tow hooks, and bed liners are especially popular among truck and SUV owners who use their vehicles for recreational activities, commuting, and hauling. Commercial vehicles also represent an important application segment, where accessories like truck bed covers and ladder racks are used to improve utility and security. Furthermore, the market caters to specialty vehicles, including classic cars and performance vehicles, where restoration and enhancement accessories are in demand. The application insights reveal a market that is deeply integrated with the lifestyle and practical needs of American vehicle owners, driving consistent demand across multiple vehicle categories.

Regional Insights

The demand for exterior car accessories in the United States exhibits regional variations influenced by climate, vehicle ownership patterns, and cultural preferences. The Southern and Western regions, characterized by warmer climates and higher rates of vehicle ownership, show strong demand for protective accessories like car covers and window tints to shield against sun damage. States such as California, Texas, and Florida are significant markets due to their large populations and car-centric cultures. The Midwest and Northeast regions, with their harsher winters, see higher demand for accessories that enhance vehicle functionality in adverse weather conditions, such as grille guards and all-weather floor mats. Additionally, regions with a strong presence of outdoor recreational activities, like the Mountain West, exhibit increased demand for off-road accessories including lift kits and light bars. Urban areas across all regions contribute to demand for compact and style-oriented accessories, while rural areas lean towards utilitarian and durable products. These regional nuances are crucial for manufacturers and retailers in tailoring their product offerings and marketing strategies to meet localized consumer needs.

Company Insights

The U.S. exterior car accessories market features a competitive array of companies, ranging from established industry leaders to innovative newcomers. Prominent players such as Lund International, known for its functional and aesthetic accessories, and Truck Hero, a major manufacturer of truck and SUV accessories, dominate significant market shares. Covercraft Industries is a key player in the vehicle cover segment, offering high-quality protection products. Other notable companies include Putco, specializing in lighting and grille products, and Go Rhino, recognized for its off-road and truck accessories. These companies compete on factors including product innovation, quality, brand reputation, and distribution network strength. Many leverage direct-to-consumer sales channels alongside partnerships with automotive retailers and installation centers. The market also sees participation from international firms seeking to expand their footprint in the lucrative U.S. market. Smaller, niche companies often focus on specific product categories or custom solutions, catering to dedicated enthusiast communities. The competitive dynamics are shaped by continuous product development, strategic collaborations, and responsiveness to evolving consumer trends.

Recent Developments

The U.S. exterior car accessories market has witnessed several noteworthy developments reflecting industry trends and strategic movements. A significant trend is the increased adoption of advanced materials, such as lightweight composites and durable polymers, enhancing product performance and sustainability. Companies are also focusing on smart technology integration; for instance, the introduction of app-controlled lighting systems and automated car covers. There has been a surge in collaborations between accessory manufacturers and automotive OEMs, leading to the offering of branded accessories through dealership networks. Furthermore, the e-commerce segment has expanded rapidly, with companies enhancing their online presence and digital marketing efforts to reach a broader consumer base. Environmental initiatives are gaining momentum, with several players introducing eco-friendly product lines made from recycled materials. The market has also seen strategic acquisitions, such as larger firms acquiring smaller specialized companies to diversify their product offerings and strengthen market position. These developments indicate a market that is innovating and adapting to meet the demands of modern consumers and regulatory environments.

Report Segmentation

This comprehensive market report on the U.S. exterior car accessories industry is meticulously segmented to provide detailed insights and facilitate informed decision-making. The segmentation is based on product type, encompassing key categories such as car covers, spoilers, grilles, running boards, exterior lighting, and other accessories. Each product segment is analyzed in terms of market dynamics, consumer preferences, and growth potential. The report further segments the market by application, distinguishing between passenger cars, light trucks and SUVs, and commercial vehicles, highlighting the specific demands and trends within each vehicle category. Additionally, the report includes a regional analysis, breaking down the market into key geographic areas within the United States to examine regional consumption patterns and opportunities. The competitive landscape is also segmented, profiling major players, emerging companies, and their respective market shares and strategies. This multi-faceted segmentation ensures that the report delivers a holistic view of the market, catering to the needs of investors, manufacturers, retailers, and other stakeholders seeking in-depth understanding and actionable intelligence.

FAQs

What are the most popular exterior car accessories? Popular exterior car accessories in the U.S. include car covers for protection, spoilers for aesthetics and aerodynamics, custom grilles for enhanced appearance, running boards for easier vehicle access, and advanced exterior lighting such as LED bars for improved visibility and style.

How do I choose the right car cover? Selecting the right car cover depends on your primary need: indoor covers protect against dust and scratches, while outdoor covers offer defense against sun, rain, and other weather elements. Material quality, fit, and breathability are crucial factors to consider for optimal protection.

Are there legal restrictions on car accessories? Yes, certain exterior car accessories are subject to legal restrictions. For example, some states have laws regarding window tint darkness, light bar usage on public roads, and the modification of vehicle bumpers or height. It is essential to check local regulations before installing accessories.

What materials are commonly used in exterior accessories? Common materials include ABS plastic for durability in parts like spoilers and grilles, automotive-grade vinyl for wraps and tints, aluminum and stainless steel for running boards and light bars, and advanced fabrics like polypropylene and polyester for car covers.

Can exterior accessories improve fuel efficiency? Certain aerodynamic accessories, such as professionally designed spoilers and air dams, can potentially reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency marginally. However, the effect is often minimal compared to driving habits and vehicle maintenance.

How has online shopping affected the market? Online shopping has significantly expanded the U.S. exterior car accessories market by increasing product accessibility, enabling price comparisons, and providing a platform for customer reviews. It has empowered consumers with more choices and convenience, driving growth in e-commerce sales channels.

Citius Research has developed a research report titled “U.S. Exterior Car Accessories Market Report - Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth Trends, Regional Outlook, Competitive Strategies and Segment Forecasts 2024 - 2030” delivering key insights regarding business intelligence and providing concrete business strategies to clients in the form of a detailed syndicated report. The report details out the factors such as business environment, industry trend, growth opportunities, competition, pricing, global and regional market analysis, and other market related factors.

Details included in the report for the years 2024 through 2030

• U.S. Exterior Car Accessories Market Potential
• Segment-wise breakup
• Compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) for the next 6 years
• Key customers and their preferences
• Market share of major players and their competitive strength
• Existing competition in the market
• Price trend analysis
• Key trend analysis
• Market entry strategies
• Market opportunity insights

The report focuses on the drivers, restraints, opportunities, and challenges in the market based on various factors geographically. Further, key players, major collaborations, merger & acquisitions along with trending innovation and business policies are reviewed in the report. The U.S. Exterior Car Accessories Market report is segmented on the basis of various market segments and their analysis, both in terms of value and volume, for each region for the period under consideration.

U.S. Exterior Car Accessories Market Segmentation

Regions Covered

• North America
• Latin America
• Europe
• MENA
• Asia Pacific
• Sub-Saharan Africa and
• Australasia

U.S. Exterior Car Accessories Market Analysis

The report covers below mentioned analysis, but is not limited to:

• Overview of U.S. Exterior Car Accessories Market
• Research Methodology
• Executive Summary
• Market Dynamics of U.S. Exterior Car Accessories Market
  • Driving Factors
  • Restraints
  • Opportunities
• Global Market Status and Forecast by Segment A
• Global Market Status and Forecast by Segment B
• Global Market Status and Forecast by Segment C
• Global Market Status and Forecast by Regions
• Upstream and Downstream Market Analysis of U.S. Exterior Car Accessories Market
• Cost and Gross Margin Analysis of U.S. Exterior Car Accessories Market
• U.S. Exterior Car Accessories Market Report - Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth Trends, Regional Outlook, Competitive Strategies and Segment Forecasts 2024 - 2030
  • Competition Landscape
  • Market Share of Major Players
• Key Recommendations

The “U.S. Exterior Car Accessories Market Report - Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth Trends, Regional Outlook, Competitive Strategies and Segment Forecasts 2024 - 2030” report helps the clients to take business decisions and to understand strategies of major players in the industry. The report delivers the market driven results supported by a mix of primary and secondary research. The report provides the results triangulated through authentic sources and upon conducting thorough primary interviews with the industry experts. The report includes the results on the areas where the client can focus and create point of parity and develop a competitive edge, based on real-time data results.

U.S. Exterior Car Accessories Market Key Stakeholders

Below are the key stakeholders for the U.S. Exterior Car Accessories Market:

• Manufacturers
• Distributors/Traders/Wholesalers
• Material/Component Manufacturers
• Industry Associations
• Downstream vendors

U.S. Exterior Car Accessories Market Report Scope

COVID-19 Impact Analysis

Like most other markets, the outbreak of COVID-19 had an unfavorable impact on the U.S. Exterior Car Accessories Market worldwide. This report discusses in detail the disruptions experienced by the market, the impact on flow of raw materials, manufacturing operations, production trends, consumer demand and the projected future of this market post pandemic.

The report has helped our clients:

• To describe and forecast the U.S. Exterior Car Accessories Market size, on the basis of various segmentations and geography, in terms of value and volume
• To measure the changing needs of customers/industries
• To provide detailed information regarding the drivers, restraints, opportunities, and challenges influencing the growth of the market
• To gain competitive intelligence and uncover new opportunities
• To analyse opportunities in the market for stakeholders by identifying high-growth segments in U.S. Exterior Car Accessories Market
• To strategically profile key players and provide details of the current competitive landscape
• To analyse strategic approaches adopted by players in the market, such as product launches and developments, acquisitions, collaborations, contracts, expansions, and partnerships

Report Customization

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