Buying gifts for car lovers can be tough as they can be expensive or something that the receiver may not even want. Whether it’s a car related present or a random gift, there are thousands of unique gifts for car lovers available online.
For those that are buying for an auto mechanic, you may want to check out our list of gifts for mechanics. These are designed for those that like to get their hands dirty.
If you are not a “car” person, it can be difficult to find something that they will want to actually use. However, to save you time and ensure you get the right gift, we have produced a list of the best gifts for car lovers below.
Table of Contents
20 Gifts For Car Lovers
1. Polisher Machine
If you are looking for the best gift for car lovers that like to clean their car, then you should take a look at some of the latest car polisher machines.
If they are constantly polishing their car without using a machine and then complain that a scratch isn’t coming out, BINGO. You have just found the ideal present for them.
The Meguiar’s MT300 is our recommended car polisher and it has been designed specifically for detailers. Features such as a billet counter weight, digital torque management and an ergonomic design make it standout from the rest.
We have written a detailed guide to polishing machines and if you want to really impress, you can get them up and running with a suitable car polish for the use.
Check it Out2. Complete Detailing Kits
In the majority of cases, 9 out of 10 people will not know what is included within a detailing kit. Most people would have heard about car wash soap and various other products but to save time, you can invest into a complete car detailing kit.
This will save you huge amounts of money buying in bulk and ensures that you wouldn’t have missed out anything. One thing that is not included in the majority of detailing kits is a pressure washer but these are not necessarily required.
The best all-round complete detailing kit is by the reputable Adam’s Polishes brand. It’s a 20 piece kit that has everything you require to clean and protect your car.
Check it Out3. High Quality Dash Cam
Dash cams have seen a huge rise in popularity due to insurance companies offering cheaper policies and people feeling more confident whilst using them. Due to the vast majority of the devices available today, it can be difficult finding the best dash cam.
We recommend setting a budget and sticking to it because the prices do rise with all the features available. Always ensure that they have adequate battery life, HD quality, G-Sensors and that are fairly easy to use if you want it to be a good gift.
The Z-Edge Z3D is a highly rated dash cam that provides dual 1080P recording at 30 FPS. It’s the brand’s new and improved model that also provides night vision and GPS navigation.
Check it Out4. RC Cars & Ride On Cars
Some of the best RC cars include drift cars, rock crawlers and even those that can reach over 100 MPH. The electric motor that is used to power them have improved massively over the last few years and has resulted in RC cars seeing huge performance upgrades.
For those that are older, you can even opt for niche RC cars such as drifting or rock crawling alternatives. However, remote control cars are a great gift for car lovers of all ages with a wide variety of cars or truck available.
If you have toddlers or kids below the age of 6-8 years old, you can even opt for a ride on car. These are basically large RC cars that that allow a child to sit on and drive around themselves or by a parent using a remote control. There is a wide variety of ride on cars for toddlers that include supercars, trucks and much more.
For those in the market for the latest RC cars, the Traxxas Rustler RTR is the best option. It combines all terrain performance and value for money into a single package. It is also suitable for both kids and adults to enjoy.
Check it Out5. FM Transmitters
If you ride passenger in someones car and they have no Bluetooth or even an AUX adapter, you are fairly limited to what you are able to listen to.
However, with a Bluetooth FM Transmitter, you are able to simply connect your phone to the device and then tune into a dedicated FM station. All that is required is a working cigarette lighter and you are able to listen to whatever you wish.
The new and improved VicTsing FM transmitter is our recommendation. It features three USB ports, 1.8 inch color screen, flexible gooseneck and is perfect for both handsfree calling or audio playback.
Check it Out6. Bluetooth Car Kit
Just as annoying as not being able to listen to your music is not being able to contact someone. Using your mobile whilst driving is illegal in the majority of the states and if you pick up your phone to answer a call, you can be hit with a big fine.
However, using a Bluetooth handsfree car kit, you are able to speak to anyone from within your car over a Bluetooth connection. Whether you want a hardwired device or one that clips to your sun visor, there is a great selection available.
The Jabra Freeway is a great choice that is compatible with all vehicles as it clips to the sun visor. It’s a Bluetooth in-car speakerphone that can also provide streaming for audio playback. The brand also state that it will last up to 14 hours of talk time or 960 hours of standby time.
Check it Out7. Car Speakers
Upgrading the audio sound system inside your vehicle is a popular upgrade by many. Without getting two technical, as a gift, you probably do not want to be buying complex amplifiers or wiring kits but stick to the basics.
This can be achieved with 6.5 car speakers or for those that love bass, the best car subwoofer in either a 10 or 12 inch form will bring a smile to any car lovers.
JL Audio are one of the most recognized brands in the audio industry and produce a range of speakers. Their 6.5 inch setup is a premium option but the 3 way component system provides excellent sound quality that cannot be beaten.
Check it Out8. Socket Sets
Most car lovers will like to work on their own cars but not everyone has all the tools. However, this makes for an excellent gift because you can purchase a complete socket set, which will always be useful and is a good all round gift for car lovers.
The DEWALT Mechanics Tool Set is a great choice that include 192 pieces that have laser etched markings for easy identification. It also includes a 72 tooth ratchets that allow you to tackle high torque applications with ease.
Check it Out9. Jump Starter
If the person you are buying a gift for is the “go-to” person when it comes to broken down cars, then an alternative to a socket set can be a jump starter.
These are small devices that can revive a battery for a car from a dead state. This avoids the need for cables or messing around and the best car jump starter will pack a big punch and revive almost all small to light truck vehicles.
One of the best options is the NOCO Boost Plus GB40, which is available in several models to suit your budget. They are able to safely jump start a dead battery and can be used for many other applications such as a power bank, LED flashlight and more.
Check it Out10. Tire Inflator
The final gift for car lovers is a tire inflator, which can be a lifesaver if you have a flat tire and need to be somewhere. We highly recommend choosing one that has an easy to read gauge, portable and has a low level of noise because many are fairly loud.
Audew produce a range of tire inflators but the cheap option that they offer is one of the best. It inflates at 38 liters per minute with an automatic shut off feature, which is activated once the tire reaches the pre-set value.
Check it Out11. Underhood Work Light
Using an LED underhood work light can transform the way you work on your engine or other areas of the car. It provides a wide output of bright light that can be safely hooked onto either end of your hood with ease.
The Milwaukee M12 is the best option that is adjustable from 48 to 78 inches and provide an output of 1,350 Lumens. It does come with a premium price tag but it’s developed by a reputable brand with a 5 year warranty for peace of mind.
Check it Out12. Ceramic Coating For Cars
Compared to a paint sealant or wax, using a ceramic coating for cars provides a harder and more long lasting protective layer. Most can last from 6 to 12 months with many brands stating that their formula can last multiple years.
The most highly rated of them all is the Migliore Strata Coating, which provides up to 12 months of protection. It’s made in the USA and the brand claim is has a self cleaning effect to ensure that the paintwork always has a high shine finish.
Check it Out13. Roadside Emergency Kit
If you have every broken down in the car, you will understand the importance of a roadside emergency kit. They contain everything you need to remain safe and fix basic issues that may be the cause of the breakdown on the roadside.
The AAA Approved kit by Lifeline is a great choice and include a 42 or 103 piece option. The roadside kit includes everything you need such as booster cables, screwdrivers, LED flashlight, gloves and so much more.
Check it Out14. Driving Sunglasses
Using the correct pair of sunglasses for driving allows you to safely drive by reducing the glare on the road. Polarized sunglasses are the best option and there are many different styles to choose from to best suit your requirements.
One of the best options are the Maui Jim Peahi Sunglasses, which use a grilamid frame that is available in multiple colors. The lens is also 100% UV coated and super thin, which improves the look and feel of the sunglasses.
Check it Out15. Auto Racing Helmet
If the person you are gifting the present to wants to start getting into racing, they will need an auto racing helmet. When choosing between all of the different styles, you will want to ensure that they are at least Snell SA2015 certified. This will be required by many professional tracks and many may even require them to be FIA8860-2015 certified too.
A popular option is the RaceQuip 273996, which is a full face helmet that is SA-2015 rated. The brand also offer this helmet in 8 different sizes to best suit your requirements.
Check it Out16. Foam Cannon
If the “car lover” already owns a pressure washer, you can purchase them a foam cannon. These allow you to produce thick suds that stick to the car and remove any loose dirt. There are many cheap options but sticking to a reputable brand that produce high quality cannons is highly recommended.
The Chemical Guys TORQ foam cannon is one of the highest rated worldwide and for good reason. It uses advanced foaming technology to produce the thickest of suds when using the correct soap solution. It’s also built to last with a durable construction and threaded design, which ensures a tight seal.
Check it Out17. Soft Top Cleaner and Protectant
For those that drive a convertible car, the roofs can become dirty fairly quickly without regular washing. If the persons convertible is in a bad state, purchasing them a convertible top cleaner can be a unique gift that they wouldn’t expect.
The best option is the Raggtopp kit, which comes with a cleaner, protectant, brush and microfiber cloths. It’s everything you need to restore any convertible top back to it’s original condition.
Check it Out18. Leather Driving Gloves
Many drivers prefer to wear driving gloves because they ensure your hands are kept clean and provide extra grip of the wheel. Leather is the best material as it combines comfort and grip. Most brands offer the choice of lambskin, deerskin, perforated or sheepskin leather.
The Fratelli Orsini are an excellent choice and are available in either brown or black. The brand also provide a selection of sizes to choose from to ensure a snug and comfortable fit.
Check it Out19. Tow Straps
One gift for car lovers that they won’t expect are tow straps. If you have ever broken down, the use of tow straps can get you out of the way of trouble and to a garage. Attempting to use a piece of rope can be very difficult and they often snap when under extreme load.
An affordable option that are highly rated is the Smittybilt CC330 tow straps. They are available in straps suitable for 20,000 to 40,000 capacities, which is more than ideal for most passenger vehicles.
Check it Out20. Car Escape Tool
The thought of being trapped inside of your car can be terrifying but there is a solution. The car escape tool is designed to cut through seat belts and break through windows. It’s a compact device that can be stored in the car or on a key chain.
By far the most popular choice is the Resqme Key Chain Escape Tool, which is made in the USA and is available in multiple different colors. The brand state that it’s a seat belt cutter and car window breaker that has saved live worldwide over the last 10 years. For peace of mind, it has also been tested and certified by TUV.
Check it OutConclusion
Buying Christmas gifts for car lovers can be a tough job as it can be easy to buy the incorrect gift. However, the list of gifts above should provide you with plenty of options that won’t disappoint and they are all very affordable.