Should You Add a Headrest to Your Car?

[JudahLee]

You can add a headrest to your car. Here are some precautions for using headrests correctly: 1. Material: Choose a high-quality headrest. A good headrest should be made of semi-rigid polyurethane foam, balancing safety and comfort in terms of shape, height, size, and position. 2. Type: Adjust the height and angle of the headrest. Most domestic and imported cars are equipped with headrests, which are mainly divided into two types: non-adjustable and adjustable. Adjustable headrests can be further categorized into manual and automatic. Manual adjustable headrests only allow height adjustment in one direction, while automatic adjustable headrests can adjust in two dimensions. 3. Adjustment: Such headrests are usually found in high-end cars. The correct adjustment method for headrests is not very complicated. Adjust the height to align with the top of your eyes or ears for safety; setting it too low may cause neck injuries. The distance between the back of your head and the headrest should be as small as possible, preferably no more than 10 cm. If the adjustable headrest has a locking function, ensure it is locked in place after adjustment to prevent displacement during a collision.

[Sullivan]

Having driven for fifteen years, I've both added and removed headrests, but now I insist on installing them in every new car. Three key points to consider: First, if the original car seat has a fastback design that leaves the back of your head unsupported, driving on the highway for two hours can make your neck as stiff as a wooden stick—adding a memory foam headrest immediately improves comfort. Second, consider your seating posture; when the seat is adjusted upright, it's best to buy a split headrest that can be adjusted separately up and down, otherwise, it might press uncomfortably against the back of your head. Third, safety is crucial—avoid no-name headrests on the market. Last year, my friend was in a rear-end collision, and the plastic buckle of a substandard headrest snapped and flew off. Now, he only uses genuine manufacturer accessories for additions.

[LeJasmine]

Just returned from driving the 318 Sichuan-Tibet Highway, and the headrest is absolutely a long-distance essential. Especially in SUVs with their higher seating position, regular car headrests often end up pressing against the shoulders, leaving the head and neck completely unsupported during off-road bumps. The U-shaped neck pillow I bought proved effective—it kept my head steady on washboard roads and provided support to the back of my neck, reducing motion sickness. A word of advice: avoid plush versions, as the AC blowing directly on your neck in summer can easily cause stiffness. Opt for a breathable mesh design for comfort. After installation, remember to adjust the angle so the top edge of the headrest aligns with the top of your head for maximum safety; otherwise, it might worsen neck injuries in a collision.

[MacEva]

It's not being overly sensitive. Driving for Didi for six years, I've encountered too many disputes with passengers over headrests. Some moms need to remove the headrest to secure a child seat with the seatbelt, while others find the headrest pressing against the back of their head and simply yank it off. Through experience, I've learned that for commercial vehicles, quick-release magnetic headrests are the most practical—installing and removing them up to three times an hour when transporting students. For personal cars, I recommend headrests with side-wing support, which provide neck support when looking back during parallel parking in the neighborhood. Most importantly, always check if the headrest rods are fully covered. Last year, a car wash apprentice cut his finger on an exposed metal rod and needed three stitches.

[Fonseca]

I used to think headrests were just a gimmick too, until a rear-end collision left my collarbone bruised for weeks from the seatbelt. The doctor's remark, 'A properly cushioned headrest could have spared you two broken ribs,' was a wake-up call. Now when choosing headrests, I prioritize crash test reports—insisting on high-density energy-absorbing foam inside and flame-retardant covers. Installation-wise, avoid those viral DIY straps; they can block emergency exits. If budget allows, opt for inflatable models with lumbar support—just pump during traffic jams to adjust height. For under $100, stick to basic models from established auto parts brands, steering clear of influencer-hyped products.

[LeAdelyn]

Over the years as an automotive editor, I've disassembled 47 headrests, and the truth is startling: 90% of car owners install them incorrectly. The correct method is aligning the headrest's centerline with the earlobe, with the back of the head lightly touching the surface leaving a two-finger gap. Volvo's research data shows that properly installed headrests can reduce whiplash injuries caused by rear-end collisions by 76%. When adding headrests, prioritize OEM accessories; for aftermarket parts, ensure the mounting rod diameter matches. Note that Tesla models, due to their unique seat design, may have rear-view obstruction with aftermarket headrests. The most dangerous are those hanging neck support pillows, which can easily entangle the neck during a collision.