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Is there such a thing as too much storage in a vehicle? It would be easy to argue that despite the number of cupholders and pockets, having an extra place to tuck items out of sight is always good. Perhaps your car or truck came with a center console in rough shape, or maybe you have a gaping space where you can see the carpet between your seats. What would fit perfectly is an aftermarket center console… but the burning question is which one?
Let’s get into the details. We’ll discuss some common reasons to replace your center console, the different types you can install, what to consider, and some of the best options here at JEGS.
Why Replace Your Center Console?
The argument for installing a center console when you don’t already have one is easy – extra storage that passersby can’t see out in the open. But what about when you already have a center console? You might want to replace it with a new one if:
- The lid is cracked or ripped off like they’re prone to do on older models.
- You’ve switched up your transmission and have a different shifter style.
- The old one doesn’t have the capacity you need.
- You’d prefer a different look compared to the blasé stock appearance.
- You want different features, like more pockets, larger cupholders, or the ability to lock it.
- The OEM console is discontinued and out of stock.
You could consider a factory-style replacement, but you’d be getting the same old thing your car already had (albeit not broken). To change things up, you’ll need to get an aftermarket center console.
Types Of Aftermarket Center Consoles
What works for someone else’s car isn’t necessarily your best choice. That’s why manufacturers offer a selection of automotive center consoles, and it’s up to you to choose the one you want. You can pick from:
- Universal consoles are designed to fit a wide range of vehicles.
- OEM-style replacement center consoles are a direct replacement for your vehicle but made by an aftermarket brand.
- Vehicle-specific consoles that are meant to fit your particular make and model but offer different colors, features, or designs than the original.
- Locking center consoles that provide a more secure option for holding your belongings.
How To Choose The Right Center Console For Your Car
Finding the best fit for your needs doesn’t have to be complicated. It comes down to determining the features and style you want and selecting the options that fit your criteria. What factors go into your decision?
- Fit – Make sure the console fits your car's make and model. Vehicle-specific ones fit like a glove, while universal consoles offer flexibility but might need some tweaking.
- Needs—Determine your needs for the console. Do you want extra storage, more cup holders, or tech features like USB ports and wireless charging?
- Material—Choose a material that matches or enhances your car’s interior. Options range from tough plastics to classy leather, each with its look and feel.
- Installation—Consider how easy it is to install. Some are perfect for DIY lovers, while others might need a pro's help.
- Budget—Decide on a budget to help narrow down your options. Purpose-built consoles can be pricey, but plenty of affordable, functional ones are available.
- Brand—Choose well-known brands known for quality and reliability. Checking reviews and ratings can give you an idea of what others think.
Best Aftermarket Center Consoles
Without further ado, five of our favorite aftermarket center consoles are available at JEGS.
Tuffy Security Center Consoles
Tuffy Security Center consoles are a great option for keeping your belongings from the grasp of nefarious individuals. Whether you drive a Jeep Wrangler, Ford F-150, Toyota Tacoma, or some other SUV or truck, their locking center consoles are a fantastic addition. You’ll find model-specific options that replace your factory-installed console and universal versions that can fit almost any make and model.
Rugged Ridge Locking Console
For Jeep lovers, the Rugged Ridge Locking Console provides the security you want with a locking lid. The check strap prevents the annoying broken lid hinge and is weather-resistant if rolling without a top. What’s cool is that the console has an insert for a six-pack (to be enjoyed responsibly), and the black denim wrap has a look that compliments most interior colors well.
TMI Products Deluxe Console
If your car didn’t come with a console from the factory – as so many classic car owners can attest to – then this one is for you. You’ll find model-specific consoles from TMI Products that drop right into place, just like they would if your car had it from new. Options like this TMI Products Deluxe Console for the ’64 through ’72 Chevrolet Chevelle add a couple of cupholders, a padded armrest, and enough capacity for a few belongings.
Auto Metal Direct Center Console Kit
So you’ve decided to swap your transmission from manual to auto (or vice versa), and the shifter doesn’t fit the console? It’s not the end of the world. Auto Metal Direct makes several center console options for popular models like this AMD Center Console Kit for the 1969 Chevrolet Camaro, an exact fit for Powerglide and TH350/TH400 transmissions. They look like factory consoles without brittle, breaking plastic or faded faux wood.
Rampage Mini Van Console
Perhaps you aren’t driving a classic car, a pickup truck, or a Jeep. You still deserve a center console in your minivan that can keep your coffee mug, phone charger, wallet, and loose change contained. The Rampage Mini Van Universal Console includes spots for your shades, cell phone, coins, and even CDs, plus it has four cupholders—two for the front and two for the back. The padded armrest is a welcome addition for road trips, too.
JEGS for All Your Accessories
Whether you need performance parts or a place to put your performance drink down, JEGS has what you’re after. You’ll find aftermarket consoles and much more in stock online, plus our experts are on hand to help you determine the best fit and form for your vehicle.
10 responses to “How To Find The Perfect Aftermarket Center Console For Your Car Or Truck”
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I have a 72 cuda with column shift automatic. It is ember gold color trim with gold-ish carpet and tan-ish seats. Seats are bucket. Nothing on the floor between them. I am looking for a console that includes an arm rest/storage. Anything specific available that checks all the boxes? Black is probably best, hard to match the old mopar interior color. Thanks
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George, with your ’72 Cuda having bucket seats and a column shift, you’ve actually got a pretty good setup for adding a universal floor console with storage and an armrest. Since you don’t need to work around a floor shifter, you’ll have more flexibility on width and placement between the seats.
A black console is probably the safest choice like you mentioned, especially with the older Mopar gold interior tones. It tends to blend in better than trying to perfectly match the original carpet or upholstery colors. Something with a padded armrest, storage compartment, and cup holders usually works well in these cars without looking too modern.
Brands like TMI, Rampage, and universal-fit consoles from classic interior suppliers are worth looking at. The biggest thing is measuring the width between the seats and making sure the console height works comfortably with your seating position and column shifter.
Since your car has a more vintage interior, I’d stay away from anything overly bulky or modern-looking. A lower-profile console with simple lines usually fits the character of the car much better.
If you want help narrowing down a console style and size that fits your Cuda properly, give us a call at 1-800-345-4545 and a Tech Specialist can help you find a good match.
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John, for a 2012 Nissan Versa there are not many direct fit aftermarket center consoles made specifically for that vehicle, so most options fall into the universal fit category. These are designed to sit on the floor between the seats and can work well as long as you match the size to your interior space. Companies like Rampage Products and Tuffy Security Products offer universal console series that include storage compartments, cup holders, and in some cases locking lids for added security. The key is measuring the space between your seats and making sure the console height does not interfere with your shifter or parking brake. Some people also look for OEM replacement consoles from salvage yards if they want a factory look, since those will match the interior better. Without knowing whether your Versa is a sedan or hatchback and what interior layout it has, it is hard to narrow it down further, but a universal console is usually the most practical route. If you would like help finding one that fits your space and needs, give us a call at 1-800-345-4545 and speak with a Tech Specialist and we will be glad to help.
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Graeme, unfortunately we do not have any vendors that we work with that offer a center console for a 2004 Ford Courier.
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I want to extend or replace my existing 2019 Honda odyssey central console to have it with arm rest. Do you have something to replace with?
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Hi Ivan, thanks for reaching out. At this time, JEGS doesn’t carry a direct-fit replacement or extension console designed specifically for the 2019 Honda Odyssey. Most of the universal center consoles we offer are aimed toward trucks, classic cars, and custom builds where space and fitment are more flexible. Because the Odyssey’s console design integrates with the dash and factory armrests, there isn’t an aftermarket bolt-in replacement that adds an armrest while keeping the stock look and functionality.
If you’re open to modifying or custom-fitting a universal console, brands like Rampage and others offer options that include built-in armrests, cupholders, and storage compartments. These can sometimes be adapted with minor fabrication or mounting changes to suit your specific setup. However, to maintain OEM fit and finish, a factory or upholstery shop custom build is often the best approach for minivan interiors like yours.
To go over available options or confirm dimensions that might work for a custom installation, you can give our tech specialists a call at 1-800-345-4545. They’ll be happy to walk you through the best universal choices and what’s needed to make them fit your vehicle cleanly.
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hey just wondering i have a single cab 1995 toyota hilux ln106 with bucket seats do you have an idea of what kind of car would have a similar centre console
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Hi Logan,
Great question. Your 1995 Toyota Hilux LN106 with bucket seats has a fairly narrow cabin, so you’ll want to look for a center console that fits compact trucks or small SUVs from the same era. One of the most commonly adapted options may be from a 1990s Toyota 4Runner, especially the second generation (1990–1995). The 4Runner shares a lot of interior dimensions with the Hilux, and its center console is a popular swap for trucks like yours. It often includes a storage compartment, cupholders, and has a similar mounting footprint. But do careful measurements before making a purchase.
Other potential donor vehicles include the Toyota Surf (the Japanese-market 4Runner) and sometimes early model Tacoma or T100 trucks, though some trimming may be needed depending on how close you want the fit to be. If you are open to aftermarket options, JEGS also carries universal center consoles that are designed to fit a variety of compact and midsize trucks. Again, do careful measuring of your vehicle and the potential center console before purchasing.
If you need additional help selecting a center console, contact us at 1-800-345-4545 and speak to a JEGS tech support specialist. We can help you find a good fit based on your truck’s measurements and your preferences.
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