The Mercury News

Aftermarke­t action

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Parking with ‘Precision’

For people who struggle with depth perception, or for those who drive larger vehicles, parking in their garages can be a problem. The Park Zone PZ 1600 Precision Parking Aid can help you consistent­ly position your car exactly where it needs to be, every time. The two-part unit uses two AA batteries and consists of a sensor and an indicator with green, orange and red lights. Both are attached to your garage wall. Once calibrated, the indicator remains green until you’re about 8 feet from the desired spot, when the orange light begins to glow. Once in the correct position, the red light comes on. Order one for $20 from www.amazon.com.

Inflation problem solver

Tires that are underinfla­ted wear out more quickly and can make your vehicle more dangerous to drive. The advantage of the Black+Decker 20 V MAX inflater is its high-pressure output that speeds up the inflation process, compared to weaker units that require you to plug in to your car’s power receptacle. The V MAX also comes with a digital pressure gauge that shuts off the unit once the desired pressure has been reached. The lithium-ion batteries can be recharged using 120-volt household current or your vehicle’s 12-volt receptacle. The V MAX also inflates air mattresses, sports equipment, etc. Purchase for about $50 from a number of online resellers, including www. lowes.com and www.amazon.com.

Take the ache out of driving

Lengthy trips behind the wheel (or as a passenger) can be a pain in the back, regardless of how comfortabl­e your car seats seem to be. The Wagan line of Lumbar Massage Cushions will help provide a measure of relief whenever you need it. The ergonomica­lly designed massagers come with a deep kneading mechanism with built-in motors that, with the flip of a switch, stimulate your lower-back muscles. The cushions work with both DC and AC power adapters (included). An adjustable strap secures the cushions to the back of your seat. Prices range from $23 for the Go Relax Lumbar Cushion, up to $60 for the Infra-Heat Massage Cushion. Get yours from www.wagan.com.

See better, drive safer

If you have a thing for cool protective eyewear while driving, you need to check out Oakley’s Fuel Cell sunglasses. They’re finished in matte black with your choice of country flag or color icon located on the arm hinge point. The Fuel Cell glasses are available with standard or polarized lenses and in a variety of shade coatings. The polarized versions provide maximum glare protection and ultra-violet blockage, and will help you “judge depth and distance better while letting you see all the fine detail you’ve been missing.” Oakley can also produce the Fuel Cell models with prescripti­on lenses. Prices range from $113 for regular lenses up to $173 for the polarized “Deep Water” versions. Check with your local eyewear retailer or order online at www. oakley.com.

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