It’s that horrifying time of year again. You’re tasked with buying gifts for that car nut in your life. You’ve been trying to come up with gift ideas that might complement their other interests in life but have come to the conclusion that they eat, sleep, live, and breathe cars. Don’t sweat it, though. We’re the same kind of freaks here and are more than happy to help you nail down the best gifts for car lovers this holiday season.
There are a lot of ways to go about this. You can buy apparel and memorabilia to match their favorite cars, and that’s always a great option. However, I’ve rounded up some gifts outside of that territory you should consider adding to the mix if you really want to knock them dead.
Best Gifts for Car Lovers in 2024
Means to Keep it Clean: Chemical Guys 14-Piece Arsenal Builder Car Wash Kit with Foam Gun
Starting with old reliable, Chemical Guys’ bucket kits are always among the best gifts for car lovers. While all car owners have their preferred car care brands, this comes from a name everyone respects thanks to the quality and performance it regularly delivers. This bucket contains everything they need to keep their car fresh all winter or to spruce it up when it returns to service next spring.
The Best Floor Mats: WeatherTech FloorLiner HP
Weathertech FloorLiners HP is another item that’s always among the best gifts for car owners. The reason is that they offer maximum protection to the carpet with their contoured fit and raised edges. Now, this might not be the type of mat they want in their car year-round if they’re a factory-correct kind of person, but it’s a must-have for a car that’s exposed to harsh winters.
Proof They’re An Amazing Driver: GoPro HERO13 Black Bundle
What’s car life without an action camera? I have one primarily for work puproses, but, as a car guy, it’s just ridiculously fun to have. This GoPro Hero 13 bundle specifically is one of the best gifts for car lovers because it comes with everything you need to get filming. That includes a suction cup mount that’s necessary for legendary POV content.
Financial Stability: Escort – MAX 360 MKII Radar and Laser Detector
Look, all car nuts do stupid stuff from time to time. Getting caught in the act is part of what makes this hobby so expensive. A radar detector like the Escort Max 360 is an excellent way to keep that car lover in your life out of trouble. It is on the expensive side, but it can save them thousands of dollars in the long run.
The Best Tool Kit for Car Owners: Craftsman 230-Piece Mechanic Tool Set
This one’s from my own personal collection. This Craftsman 230-piece mechanic’s tool set is a stupid-good buy. I’ve had one in the trunk of my ’69 Charger for over a year now and can say without a doubt it’s the best roadside tool kit money can buy. It’s also just a great all-around tool set for anyone working on cars in general, and it’s definitely one of the best gifts you’ll find for car lovers.
A Backup Plan: NOCO Boost HD GB70 2000A UltraSafe Jump Starter
Here’s another one I’ve got a ton of personal experience with. Well, indirectly, at least. I’ve had a NOCO GB40 for about five years now. It’s saved my skin countless times as I’ve been using a project car as a daily driver. That said, the GB70 is an excellent step up that offers the same quality, just a bit more juice for added peace of mind.
Connecting With Their Inner Child: Carrera Digital Electric Slot Car Racing Track Set
When you think of gifts for car lovers, you’re probably thinking of something a little more light-hearted than the stuff I’ve talked about so far. This slot car kit is the perfect way to keep a car nut in touch with their inner child. It’s also awesome for connecting with their kids and sharing their passion. Trust me, this is the kind of thing they’ll talk about for years to come and is sure to be a home run this holiday season.
Protection They Deserve: Platinum Shield Car Cover
A custom-fit car cover is another excellent gift idea. Cars are in two camps this holiday season; either they’re stored for the winter, or they’re roughing the elements. Either way, extra cover is needed. A custom-fit car cover like this gives that premium feel car owners love and the maximum protection the car demands.
Ultimate Stocking Stuffer: Custom Oil Filter Brands Vintage Tumbler
Here, we have an excellent stocking stuffer that you ought to consider for the wrench slinger in your life. While not a tool, they’ll love to have this tumbler in the garage. The novelty factor of picking an oil filter design that matches their taste is a nice touch for obvious reasons. It also helps keep their greasy fingerprints from ruining the look.
Best for Gamers: Logitech G920 Driving Force Racing Wheel and Floor Pedals and Shifter (Xbox)
If that car lover in your life is big into racing games, this is the single best gift you can buy them. Sim racing is an awesome way to spend your free time, and this Logitech system is a great way to get the full experience. This particular set is for the Xbox and PC, but the PlayStation version is available as well.
Track Day Wheels to Remember: OE Wheels OEM and Replica Wheels
If you’re really trying to spoil that special gearhead, OE Wheels is the way to go. Its OEM and replica wheels are perfect for building clones, track day use, and even for a spare set of winter wheels. It takes a little finesse and planning to pull this off, but trust us, nothing will make a more memorable gift than a trick set of wheels like these.
