My Car Lacked GPS, So I Tested the Best Phone Mounts to Modernize It

My Car Lacked GPS, So I Tested the Best Phone Mounts to Modernize It

My 2008 sedan is reliable and comfortable. One feature, however, is noticeably absent: a factory-installed GPS navigation system. Modern cars have built-in GPS. This makes navigating unfamiliar routes much easier.

I rely on turn-by-turn directions and real-time traffic updates. I also depend on speed limit alerts. Without integrated navigation, using my phone safely became a challenge. Holding it or glancing down at the cupholder was not ideal.

I wanted to solve this problem with a modern phone mount. I aimed to find a solution to securely hold my phone. It needed to be within reach and in sight. The mount also could not damage the car’s interior or block my view.

Vent-Mount Magnetic Holder: Simplicity at Its Best

The first mount I tested attached to an air vent. It used a strong magnet to hold the phone in place. Installation involved clipping it to the vent. I attached a thin metal plate to my phone’s case.

The magnet proved strong enough to hold the phone. It stayed secure, even over bumps. The vent mount used minimal dashboard space, which I appreciated. However, airflow from the vent decreased.

Placement and removal were quick with one hand. The mount did not obstruct the windshield view. Sometimes I had to reposition the metal plate. This ensured optimal magnetic contact and secure placement.

This vent mount is best for its simplicity. It also is good for its unobtrusive design. Drivers wanting a clean look will find it effective. It offers a simple, reliable solution for daily phone use.

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Suction-Cup Windshield/Dashboard Mount: Versatile Viewing

I then tested a suction-cup mount. It attached to either the windshield or the dashboard. I cleaned the area with an alcohol wipe first. The suction cup then adhered securely to both surfaces.

The locking lever created a very strong seal. The adjustable arm allowed precise phone positioning. I could place the phone at eye level. This minimized distractions while I was driving and improved safety.

The adjustable viewing angle was a major advantage. This mount held larger phones, even with rugged cases. However, suction strength diminished in high heat. The arm and bracket were noticeably bulky.

Some jurisdictions have restrictions on windshield mounts. This mount proved the most versatile. It offered the best viewing position. Routine checks are necessary to ensure suction remains strong.

CD Slot Mount: Utilizing Forgotten Hardware

My car still has a CD player. I decided to test a CD slot mount next. These mounts insert into the CD drive. They expand to achieve a firm grip inside. The installation required moderate effort.

The mount felt secure once in place. The bracket held the phone close to the dashboard. It did not block any essential controls. This setup uses otherwise unused hardware, which is a plus.

The phone remained in my line of sight. It did not obstruct the windshield. The hold was solid, without suction cups or adhesives. This option is not suitable for frequent CD player use.

The phone sat lower than I preferred. This mount has a limited adjustment range. It balances unobtrusiveness and stability well. It’s practical for cars with a rarely used CD player.

Cupholder Mount: Secure and Stable

Lastly, I tested a cupholder mount. This design fits into an existing cupholder. It expands to lock itself into place. Installation was quite intuitive. I adjusted the base to fit my cupholder’s diameter.

I then positioned the adjustable arm and phone bracket. This option does not attach to vents or the windshield. It also does not use the CD slot. The mount felt generally very secure and stable.

Repositioning the mount among different drivers was easy. A drawback is that it occupies a functional cupholder. It may interfere with the shifter or center console. This depends on the car’s design.

The phone sits lower. More eye movement is necessary. This mount felt the most secure. This was especially true on rough roads. Choose this if you value stability over optimal viewing height.

After testing, the vent-mount magnetic holder provided the best balance. The suction-cup mount offered the best adjustable view. The CD slot mount worked best for unused CD players. The cupholder mount gave the most secure hold. I found My Car Didn’t Have GPS, So I Tested the Best Car Phone Holders to Modernize My Ride quite effectively.

These mounts modernize older cars. They make smartphone navigation safer. The solutions don’t perfectly replicate built-in GPS. Drivers can choose based on their priorities. Visibility, simplicity, or stability should influence the decision. As My car doesn’t have GPS, so I tested the best car phone holders to modernize my ride.

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