Gear up, gifters. It’s time to start thinking about holiday shopping. We’ve put together a roster filled with gearhead-approved gifts for all price points — from stocking stuffers to big-ticket splurges.
Stocking Stuffers ($10–$25)
Fill your gearhead’s stocking with these reasonably priced gifts that are perfect for everyday use or emergencies.
1. Car Magnets
Bumper stickers are so ’90s. Show your hometown pride while supporting local maker Cleveland Clothing Co. These stylish car magnets are just $7 apiece. Grab a few to gift and some more for yourself.
2. Car Cleaning Wipes
Chemical Guys InnerClean Interior Quick Detailer & Protectant Wipes, $9.99
Make it shine on the inside. At under $10 per pack, these are perfect to slide into the glove compartment for on-the-go cleaning. Bonus: Anti-static agents repel dust between cleans.
3. Tire Pressure Gauge
Milton S-921 Pencil Tire Pressure Gauge, $10.27
A must-have tool for any car owner, a tire pressure gauge is essential for safe driving. Opt for a simple pencil-style gauge like this one or a slightly upgraded digital model. This is a great gift for new teen drivers and should come with a lesson on proper tire pressure.
4. LED Cup Holder Lights
LED Cup Holder Lights, $11.99
Interior LED lights are practical, affordable and fun. Customizable, colorful lighting adds ambiance inside the car for night drives while illuminating hard-to-see areas, like the glove box. You can opt for small individual lights or a strip that creates a cool neon outline effect, or grab these specifically designed to illuminate your cupholders.
5. Wireless Charging Phone Mount
CHGeek Wireless Car Charger, $25.99
Phone use of any kind while driving can be a hazard. Keep your device charging and screen accessible to allow for hands-free navigation and speaker-phone calls. This model mounts to the dashboard, windshield, cup holder or car air vent.
Mid-Range Gifts ($50–$150)
Wrap up one of these and place it under the tree. Your gearhead’s face is sure to light up.
6. Hands-Free Alexa for Your Car
Amazon Echo Auto, $54.99
Take Alexa everywhere with Echo Auto. Stream your favorite playlists, catch up on podcasts or control your smart home from your car with your voice. Stay connected with hands-free calls and texts, and enjoy added convenience with the included fast car charger. Perfect for the driver who wants voice control and entertainment on the go.
7. On-Board Diagnostic Scanner
Ancel BD310 OBD-II Scanner, $69.99
An OBD-II scanner provides valuable insights into your car’s health, including warning lights, airbags, ABS and more. This is a great mid-range choice for DIYers, allowing them to diagnose issues and assess the urgency of repairs. While it offers detailed data and recommendations via its free app, you may still need a mechanic for more complex repairs, making it a great first step in keeping your vehicle running smoothly.
8. Protective Liner for Floor Mats
SmartLiner Custom Fit Floor Mats, $109.95
This sturdy rubber-plastic and polythene blend floor mat liner showed up on Car and Driver’s Best Floor Mats of 2024 list, and it’s clear why. They do a great job protecting your upholstery from dirt, slush and spilled liquids.
9. Portable Car Jump Starter
Clore Automotive JNC325 Jump-N-Carry Jump Starter, $148
A dead battery is a pain, but during cold Cleveland winters, it can also be dangerous. This compact jump starter is a practical gift that offers peace of mind during emergencies, allowing the driver to jump-start their car without another vehicle.
10. Car Detailing
Vroom Groom Mobile Detailing Basic Interior Package, $150
You know your car lover needs to keep their interior spotless. Give them the gift of cleanliness and convenience with a car detailing service that comes to them. Vroom Groom Mobile Detailing’s auto packages start at $150.
High-End Splurges ($200+)
Go big with one of these high-end items sure to make your gearhead’s year.
11. High-Quality Dash Cam
Eye2Pro™ 4K Dash Cam, $249.99
Dash cams range in price from budget models under $50 all the way up to $500+. At $250, this high-quality version has premium features like auto-loop recording and a 139-degree ultra-wide-angle lens while remaining affordable. An essential safety tool, dashcams protect against false accident claims, questionable tickets and unexpected road hazards.
12. Remote Start System
Avital Remote Start System, starting at $299
Cleveland winters are long and cold. A remote start system like this one from Avital allows you to warm (or cool) your car from a distance. Upgrade to include an alarm system for a robust combo of safety and comfort.
13. Night Vision System
Lanmodo Vast Pro — 1080P Night Vision System, $369
For anyone with trouble driving at night, this system uses low-light imaging technology to provide drivers a clear and crisp image even in total darkness.
14. Radar Detector
Escort MAX360C Laser Radar Detector, $599.95
Stay alert and ahead of any speed traps or road hazards with a top-tier radar detector. This one offers 360-degree protection with advanced filtering to reduce false alerts.
15. Performance Exhaust System
Custom Exhaust System by Rainbow Muffler and Brake, Price Varies
For car enthusiasts who want to boost sound and performance, a custom exhaust system delivers extra horsepower and an enhanced driving experience. Built by exhaust experts at Rainbow Muffler and Brake, this upgrade turns your run-of-the-mill ride into a powerful road machine.
