21 Perfect Last-Minute Gifts for the Car Enthusiast

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This article was updated in December 2023.

Saturday, December 25 is less than two weeks away. Alarmed? Stressed? Freaking out!? No need to get frazzled. We’ve put together 11 ideal presents guaranteed to please most any driver, and everything here is listed as “Arrives Before Christmas” by Amazon. So if you order today, you should be good to go on the gift-giving front.

From tools to tech, gadgets to gizmos, there’s plenty here to satisfy anyone who owns a car, works on cars, or spends their days daydreaming about cars. Sound like anyone you know? Of course it does. Even the most casual automotive fan will appreciate one or more of these awesome gifts. But don't put it off another day; order now, so your present arrives in time for the holiday. You’re welcome.

Still shopping for the perfect holiday gift for the car lover in your life? Check out our Gift Guide for Car Lovers and Coolest Gifts for Motorcyclists!

Interior Smart LED Lights

These interior LED light strips are super popular, and this set is controlled via an app that allows your favorite enthusiast to easily change colors, brightness, and effects. Four flexible strips on two lines are ideal for accenting any interior cabin; it connects via the cigarette lighter outlet. One mode is for “music sensitivity,” so if your favorite driver likes the cars that go “boom!” this tasty gift is sure to please.

Front and Rear Dash Cam

When it comes to tech and gadgets, you tend to get what you pay for, and proven brands always cost a bit more than knock-offs. Next Base introduced its first dash cam in 2012—an eternity in tech years. We’ve used this particular setup ourselves and have to say, installation and use are easy and intuitive. The 322GW kit offers 1080p front and 720p rear recording, and a magnificent 2.5-inch high-res touchscreen. Best of all, it overwrites its oldest files so it’s always recording, even if your SD card gets full.

OBDII Scan Tool for iPhone & Android

Now that they’ve got a killer set of tools, your favorite DIY mechanic needs this OBD II scanner to quickly and easily diagnose problems and issues with any 1996-or-newer vehicle. It plugs right in under any dash, providing a complete repair report with thousands of fixes verified by ASE Certified Technicians. Your giftee will save a ton of money on repair bills by eliminating the need for diagnostic check-ups and estimates.

Complete Car Care Gift Pack

Every car owner would appreciate this easy, inexpensive, and thoughtful gift. You could spend a lot more on a detailing kit, but this handy collection has everything they’ll need. It includes original Armor All Cleaner and Protectant, plus Ultra Shine Wash & Wax, Tire Foam Protectant, and a can of 25 handy Glass Wipes. And you know you can trust the brand name. If you’re in a bind thinking of a last-minute gift, look no further.

JuiceBox 32 Smart EV Charger

One of the most user-friendly home EV chargers you can buy, this is a fantastic deal. Built on the universal J1772 charging standard, this Level 2 charging station (240V required) can power all electric vehicles on the market today, including Teslas (via an adapter). With up to 6x faster charging, you can control and monitor charging remotely over Wi-Fi with the free smartphone app.

Rolling Pneumatic Creeper Garage/Shop Seat

Here’s a handy gift any garage mechanic or DIYer will appreciate. With a segmented storage tray for small parts and tools, quality 360-degree swivel casters, and a padded seat, the Torin is perfect for wrenching, detailing, or just chilling with a cold one and admiring your handiwork. It’s got a pneumatic pedestal that adjusts 4 1/2 inches up or down, and it supports up to 250 pounds.

Universal Socket

We'd never swear by one of these but hey, it's an affordable and fun stocking stuffer for any DIY enthusiast.

Extreme Long-Range Laser/Radar Detector

Perfect for the leadfoot on your list, the R3 from Uniden is one of the most popular radar detectors among enthusiasts because of its power and reliability. The Extreme Long-Range detection senses both laser and radar. It uses GPS to monitor red-light and speed cameras, and lets you mark fixed false alerts you might pass daily, like automatic door openers on storefronts. In addition, 360-degree protection and voice alerts keep it hands-free and easy to use. Best of all, at press time it was a full $100 off its regular price.

Mechanics Tools Kit and Socket Set

Every driveway mechanic needs a quality set of tools, and this 108-piece set from DeWalt makes the perfect gift. It includes two 72-tooth pear-head ratchets and a variety of sockets, extensions, and adapters for almost any application. Comes complete with vinyl carrying case. Pros, noobs, and everyone in between will love this set for years.

Universal Car Seat Covers