Are you considering purchasing automotive accessories? Here are 5 questions you should ask prior to your purchase and you’ll stand a chance to win one of 25 Stainless Steel braais from Maxe.
Whether you’re considering fitting a nudge bar or other accessory to your bakkie or your SUV, choosing your automotive accessory can be quite daunting. There is so much information available that it is hard to know where to start. Andre Lawrence, National Sales & Marketing Manager at Maxe Premium Automotive Accessories, says the most important aspects to consider are quality and reliability. “When you add an accessory to your vehicle, you want to be sure that you’re adding value to it, not compromising it,” he says.
Maxe has been around since 1997 and celebrates its 25th birthday in 2022. The company has built a reputation for premium quality accessories and OEM-approved products, supplied nationally and throughout selected African countries.
What do I want from the accessory?
Are you looking to improve or customise the aesthetics of your vehicle or are you looking for a product that will add specific functionality? For example, accessories such as tonneau covers (the cover for the back portion of a bakkie) or side steps need to be functional as well as good-looking. “A tonneau cover can help to protect the bakkie load and improve aerodynamics, while the side step makes it easier to get in and out of the vehicle. While these are both elements that can make your car look more stylish, it’s important to also ensure they do what you need them to do and that they are safe and durable.”
Is the manufacturer reputable?
There are many seemingly cost-effective vehicle accessories available online and from fitment centres and retailers, but Andre says that not all parts that look the same are the same. “I’d advise steering clear of unknown, unproven parts and brands you’re unfamiliar with. Something that looks like a good deal might not be if the quality and safety of the parts are not up to scratch. Rather buy from companies that have a trusted track record.”
Are all Maxe products built to the same quality and specification as those approved by the vehicle manufacturer?
Yes. All Maxe products, whether destined for aftermarket fitment, or for fitment by the vehicle manufacturer, are produced to the same high specifications, quality and finish. The benefit across the range is that all Maxe products meet the same safety testing criteria conducted by Maxe, as specified by vehicle manufacturers.
“Accessories that have not been tested by the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) generally haven’t been exposed to the same demanding evaluations or rigorous testing, so car manufacturers can’t guarantee their performance, safety and durability of these parts, or how they will affect the car. For example, with nudge bars, an important consideration is how the bar is attached to the chassis, and whether the vehicle’s airbags will still deploy at the same rate following an impact to the bar.” Maxe’s products are distributed and available directly through the following dealer networks: Toyota, Ford, Isuzu, Hyundai, Kia, Nissan, VW, Mazda, Renault, Volvo, Scania and UD.
Has the product been properly tested?
Accessories can have an effect on vehicle performance and safety. For this reason it is very important to check that the product you’re considering has been properly evaluated. “At Maxe, we have an in-house technical team whose job it is to extensively test every product we manufacture and supply. For example, unlike many other nudge bar and sports bar products on the market, all Maxe bars are subjected to road vibration testing to ensure durability. We sometimes joke and say that the bar might last longer than the car!”
Is there a warranty on the product?
It’s important to know what recourse you have if you find any issues or defects with the accessory you select. “Maxe makes a range of unique accessories which all carry warranties and can be obtained at dedicated fitment centres,” says Andre. “We’re very proud of our quality and we stand by our products wherever they go, from farms, to the bush or to the seaside.”
Is the product manufactured from quality materials?
When selecting an accessory, keep in mind that there are differences in the thickness and thus strength of the stainless steel used to manufacture nudge bars. Maxe does not compromise on raw materials and uses only materials of the highest quality, ensuring uniformity and strength. Maxe bars are all made from thick-walled stainless-steel piping and are designed to last longer with improved aesthetic appeal. Maxe also offers powder-coated products for an extra layer of corrosion protection on Black Stainless Steel bars. Maxe does not use inferior mild steel on any products it manufactures, as mild steel products have been tested as inferior.
To find out more about Maxe’s full range, fill out the simple enquiry form below and someone from Maxe will get hold of you with pricing and availability. Alternatively, visit the company’s website or Facebook pages for more information.
