Father's Day 2023 Gift Guide for Car-Loving Dads

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This article was updated with new products and great gift ideas in May 2024.

We love our dads, and our dads sure love their cars. In fact, our dads' love for cars is probably why we love cars. Fathers' Day this year is Sunday, June 16, and if you're unsure of what to get your car-loving dad, we've curated a fantastic selection of must-have car- and driver-oriented Father's Day gifts to choose from.

From experiences like NASCAR ride-alongs and exotic-car rentals to tech, swag, apparel, tools and shop gear, this awesome gift guide just for Dad. So let's celebrate Dad with the official Father's Day Gift Guide 2024. So let's celebrate Dad with the official Autoweek Father's Day Gift Guide 2024.

More Gift Guides: Best Gifts for Mechanics | Best Gifts for Jeep Lovers | Best Outdoor & Car Camping Gift Ideas

The Best Father's Day Gifts for Him

World's Best Driving Experiences

With dozens of driving experiences to choose from, this is one of the best automotive gifts a dad could ever hope for on Father's Day. Some are pricey and luxurious, others are more affordable but shorter. All are life-changing driving experiences: Once-in-a-lifetime drives in the world's most exotic cars on the most iconic roads on earth. A sports car on a track in the Las Vegas desert. A classic car on a legendary European road course. Three laps in a NASCAR around Daytona International Speedway. Extreme 4X4s in Moab. And so many more. There's something for every dad who loves cars, trucks, racing, and off-roading.

Tinggly, Virgin Experiences, and Adrenaline all offer similar experiences; which one you choose is up to you but regardless, you can't go wrong.

Speedmaster '57

The legend. Inspired by the 1957 original, this 40.50mm model features a stainless-steel case and a black dial with recessed hour markers. Along with rhodium-plated “broad arrow” hands, the brushed bezel includes a blackened tachymeter scale, while on the caseback there is a “Speedmaster '57” engraving as well as a flat sapphire crystal. Omega #O33210415101001.

Tool Box Refrigerator

The Whynter TBR-185SR is a portable 1.8 cu. ft. toolbox refrigerator is designed to subtly blend into your garage or workshop. It has a red, powder coated stainless steel housing, two heavy-duty drawers on top, a locking door, durable rolling casters, interior lighting, and an auto-defrost feature. A perfect addition to any work area setting and great frontage to keep your refrigerator and favorite beverages safely unnoticed.

Hitch Hammock Stand and 2 Hammaka Chairs

The Hammaka Trailer Hitch Stand takes leisure to a whole new level. Perfect for tailgating, outdoors enthusiasts, and car camping, it easily attaches to any 2-inch standard hitch receiver. The stand is capable of holding 500 pounds when 250 pounds are distributed to each arm. Note: That 250-pound weight limit is not to be pushed to the extreme.

5-Speed Stick Shift Cufflinks

Let's be clear: Amazon has dozens of styles of car-related cufflinks in all finishes, sizes, and price points. There's a HUGE selection of automotive brands, too. We chose these silver 5-speed versions only because we like them very much; as we like to say around here, "save the manuals!" Your dad may differ.

Stainless Steel Metal Watch Band for Apple Watch

The Apple Watch is amazing, but have you ever tried to dress one up? Kinda hard with a silicon watchband. With a brushed finish and a folding clasp, this stainless steel metal bracelet from Bullstrap brings elegance and class to Dad's smartwatch. It's available in widths from 38 to 44mm, and also comes in black.

Red Bull Racing 2024 Max Verstappen 9FORTY Cap

A great gift for any F1 fan, this Max Verstappen cap features his car number 1 on the brim and a high structured crown, with an adjustable snapback closure for a perfect fit and an Oracle Red Bull Racing patch sewn to the front crown.

Bang & Olufsen x Ferrari Beoplay EX Wireless Earbuds

As versatile as they are beautiful, these Bang & Olufsen x Ferrari earbuds with wireless charging case and active noise cancellation bring deep sound and snug comfort in a Ferrari red package.

Garmin Catalyst Driving Performance Optimizer

For drivers of all levels, this industry-first “driving coach” mounts in the cockpit of any car, gathering performance data, giving real-time audible cues, and offering immediate session analysis to show key areas for improving track performance. True Optimal Lap technology factors performance data to calculate your best drivable time, and adaptive suggestions show key areas for improvement such as True Track Positioning to show Dad's line on the track, comparing his lap times to show if he's ahead or behind his previous run, and Dad can instantly review his session stats on the 7-inch touchscreen.

Eco-Drive Classic Chronograph with Perpetual Calendar BL5566-50E

Here's an elegant yet affordable driving watch any dad would love—and we often see it on sale at, yes, Amazon. Eco-Drive technology means it never needs a battery; it's powered by light, any light. Water-resistant to 100 meters, it includes a 5-year warranty. Also available in a silver face.

Premier Father's Day Gift Box with FREE Burgers

"DADS WANT STEAK!" That's the Father's Day motto of Omaha Steaks anyway, and we'd be hard-pressed to argue—especially when free burgers are involved. Omaha offers several Father's Day gift packages at various price points, but we like this Premier package. It includes:

• 2 (5 oz.) Butcher's Cut Filet Mignons

• 2 (5 oz.) Butcher's Cut Top Sirloins

• 4 (4 oz.) Air-Chilled Boneless Chicken Breasts

• 4 (6 oz.) Pure Ground Filet Mignon Burgers

• 4 (3 oz.) Gourmet Jumbo Franks

• 1 (1.5 lbs. pkg.) Gourmet Steakhouse Fries

• 4 (4 oz.) Caramel Apple Tartlets

• 1 (3 oz.) Omaha Steak Seasoning

• 4 (4 oz.) Omaha Steak Burgers

• Free Shipping

And with Omaha, shipping is always free. If you're undecided about what to get your dad this Father's Day, just remember: "Dads want steak."

Bosch Automotive Tools 1150 Info Scan OBD-II Scanner

You could spend WAY more on an OBD-II scanner, but unless Dad is a professional mechanic, he won't use but a small percentage of its functionality. Instead, opt for the 1150 scan tool. It's super-affordable, comes from a reliable brand, and performs every diagnostic check Dad could ever need including generic and manufacturer-specific DTCs and definitions, ABS codes and definitions, all modes of OBD II data, permanent DTCs, freeze frame, state OBD II check (emissions) drive cycle mode, trilingual menus and much more.

NASCAR Ultimate Gameroom Combo

Add a new dimension of style to Dad's game room, man cave, or garage with the NASCAR Ultimate Gameroom Combo. This officially licensed set will bring usability and flair to any setting. Two padded 30-inch bar stools and a chrome accented pub table will transform any room to create the perfect environment for relaxing, race-watching, recreation, and gaming.

Portable Electric Car Cooler/Warmer

Now this is a handy gift idea—and it's far more affordable than you might think. It's perfect for road trips, car camping, or even just daily commuting. The Wagan plugs right into the car's 12v outlet. It warms up to 140 degrees and cools to 36 degrees Fahrenheit.

Cool Box VW Bus Ice Chest Wagon

With a telescopic handle, front-end steering, and rubber tires, this ice chest wagon is detailed just like an iconic T1 VW Bus. Secured with a heavy-duty lid-lock, the hinged roof opens to reveal a large, 27-quart insulated compartment for plenty of picnic essentials. Send Dad back to the Sixties with this incredible Father's Day gift. It's officially licensed by Volkswagen, too.

Road & Track Premium Access Membership

This Father's Day, give Dad a behind-the-scenes look at Road & Track magazine with a Road & Track Premium All Access membership. He’ll receive unlimited digital access to RoadandTrack.com including exclusive content, Road & Track and Car and Driver magazines delivered to his doorstep, invitations to virtual editor roundtables hosted by R&T editors, inclusion on Road & Track’s member-only R&T Insider newsletter, discounts and free shipping on the Road & Track online shop, priority registration to Road & Track Experiences, and discounts on select events. It’s the perfect Father’s Day gift for the ultimate enthusiast.

Lego Technic Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 E Performance Race Car Set

This 1:8 scale model with authentic livery details, a V-6 engine with moving pistons, an opening wing, individual suspension, functioning steering, and slick tires makes a fantastic gift. This is the most intricate model of the new Lego/Mercedes collection with 1,642 total pieces.

GoPro HERO10 Black

Tech and gadgets keep updating—there's a Hero12 Black out now—but the Hero 10 Black is still the best affordable choice for an action camera. It's waterproof, easy to use, boasts fantastic image quality, and GoPro offers a plethora of mounts and accessories to make it versatile for almost any activity Dad can imagine. Best of all, the price keeps dropping.

Doin' Donuts T-Shirt

Available in multiple colors and many sizes, this might end up being Dad's favorite t-shirt this year.

American Mountains Whiskey Glasses

This set consists of four handblown, lead-free whiskey glasses, each featuring a raised topographic impression of some of the greatest, most majestic peaks in the U.S.: Denali, Mount Whitney, Mount Rainier, and Half Dome. Whiskey Peaks will keep any car-loving dad "on the rocks" whenever 5 o'clock calls.

Arizona Desert Run

Treat Dad to the ultimate automotive experience! Arizona Desert Run is a four-day adventure through Arizona led and curated by the editors of Road & Track, taking place November 12-15. Guests can expect scenic group drives through Arizona’s red rocks, a thrilling track day at Radford Racing School, a pit stop at the Grand Canyon, delicious culinary experiences, and restful stays at luxury hotels.

Ray-Ban | Meta Wayfarer Smart Sunglasses

Make phone calls. Capture pictures and video. Toggle between phone and camera to share what you're seeing. Listen to music via open-air speakers. While Meta's Smart sunglasses aren't revolutionary, these Ray-Ban Wayfarers finally nail the style. And by all accounts, the tech and execution are top-notch. If Dad loves his gadgets, this is the ideal Father's Day gift.

Leatherman Wave+ Multi-Tool

Is a Leatherman multi-tool the most popular Father's Day gift of all time? It's right up there. The reason is simple: This thing does everything, and has a 25-year warranty. From household fixes and DIY pursuits to gardening and exploring the outdoors, the Wave+ helps Dad do it all. It weighs just 8.5 ounces, so this pocket-sized tool is perfect for Dad's everyday carry. If your favorite dad doesn't have a Leatherman yet, or is struggling with a cheap knock-off, now's the time to fix that.

YETI Hopper M20 Backpack Cooler

Most dads likely have a YETI cooler or tumbler by now. But the Hopper is another animal altogether. A soft-sided airtight cooler that carries 30 12-ounce cans like a backpack, it's eminently portable and the top quality is what Dad expects from YETI. It's ideal for road trips, golf outings, hikes, and more. Eight colors are available.

Padded Rolling Shop Stool

Now this is a thoughtful Father's Day gift. The rip-resistant vinyl and foam-padded seat of this DeWalt shop stool provides a comfortable perch while Dad works. He'll be able to rotate 360 degrees, customize the seat height from 24 to 28 inches, and stash his tools below on the wire-grid shelf. With a sturdy steel-frame construction, this shop stool can easily support up to 300 pounds, and the industrial powder-coated steel will not chip or fade.

Vintage Retro Tin Garage Signs

We can't imagine a dad who wouldn't get a kick out of hanging these tin retro automotive signs in his garage or shop. Sure, they're kitschy. But they're also semi-realistic and undeniably cool. If you're looking for an inexpensive Father's Day gift for a car-loving dad, you can't go wrong here.

'Shop Class as Soulcraft: An Inquiry into the Value of Work'

I've personally gifted this book to like-minded gearheads and enthusiasts no fewer than 10 times, and it always kills. Shop Class As Soulcraft was a national bestseller when it was first published in 2009, and its lessons and insights into the value of working with one's hands are at least as important today. Matthew B. Crawford questions the educational imperative of turning everyone into a “knowledge worker” while, in the process, discounting the value of real physical labor. Using his own experience as an electrician and mechanic, Crawford presents a wonderfully articulated call for self-reliance. If your dad is one of those dads who laments the loss of shop classes in schools, Soulcraft is a true gem of a book—and the perfect Father's Day gift for car dads.

Silverstone Touchscreen Leather Driving Gloves

Since 1777, Dents has been making classy leather gloves with purpose. Although it champions traditional glove-making, this pair is made from butter-soft black leather and has touchscreen-friendly fingertips. They even have those iconic perforations, plus elasticated trims for comfort. Talk about the perfect driving accessory gift.

Magnetic Car Phone Mount

This is one of the finest magnetic phone mounts we've ever used. Dad can just toss his device up onto the Velox and it snaps into place in perfect alignment for up to 7.5 watts of wireless power. Note that the Velox is only compatible with MagSafe-capable phones; Dad's old phone may stick, but it won't charge.

GTElite Racing Simulator Cockpit

There are plenty of dads out there who like to go fast, but the ride in their garage isn't fast enough. Enter the world of virtual racing—where he can drive just about any car he wants. We tried out the GTElite Cockpit from Next Level Racing and paired it with the ERS1 Elite Seat. It's incredibly adjustable, and a perfect platform to add whatever wheel, pedals, shifter, and other accessories he chooses.

Speak Plus GPS with Alexa

A great Father's Day gift for old-school dads who tend to avoid tech and gadgets, this discreet device combines Alexa voice command with Garmin GPS plus a dash cam, all in a package smaller than a deck of cards. It provides infotainment and directions right through the vehicle's audio system. And the 82-degree, 1080p dash cam has all the features of larger units, like incident recording and lane-deviation warnings. Playing cards not included.

Gillette Heated Razor Bugatti Limited Edition

Now Dad can experience the soothing warmth of an exceptional shave, every day. Gillette's heated razors are fantastic, heating up in less than a second to provide the feeling of a hot towel shave with every stroke. Magnetic docking and wireless charging provides up to six shaves from a single charge. This limited Bugatti edition includes a GilletteLabs Heated Razor handle in exclusive Bugatti Agile Blue, two five-bladed refills, the magnetic charging dock, a cleaning cloth, and a smart plug.

Chemical Guys 16-Piece Arsenal Builder Car Wash Kit with Foam Cannon

This premium starter kit has all the tools and chemicals Dad needs to keep his vehicles looking great. The included products are substantial, the spray nozzles are sturdy, and the entire kit fits inside the provided five-gallon bucket. In addition to six soaps and sprays, Chemical Guys also includes a foam cannon for sudsing up with minimal effort. There's also a collection of microfiber towels and brushes, rounding out one of the more comprehensive sets we tested.

BioLite FirePit+

Now Dad can enjoy the warmth, smell, crackle, and feel of a wood campfire, without the smoke. Create mesmerizing flames with BioLite’s patented combustion and get a full unobscured view thanks to X-Ray Mesh body. Folding legs and packable footprint make FirePit+ highly portable while still fitting standard size firewood.

Original Pilot

These aviators were one of our Best Overall picks in a test of Best Driving Sunglasses. Our reviewer said "They might not be the best in any one category, but combined they become the perfect companion for your eyes on the road." They come in gold, silver, and black frames in various widths for comfort, and with multiple lens colors. Dad could spend far more on an excellent pair of driving shades.

Puma Speedcat LS Driving Shoes

Puma's Speedcat is a classic driving shoe, one we called our Best Overall. Racing equipment manufacturer Sparco partnered with Puma to make the original Speedcat. While these have been updated from the originals, they still feature an athletic look, a stout rounded heel, and narrow sides, making them perfect for tighter pedal boxes.

Stinger Easy Roller Dolly

If Dad's always struggling to move stuff around the garage to get to that one thing he needs (it's always way in the back), the Stinger from OTC Tools is the ideal garage accessory. It's a handy way to roll vehicles to and fro without all the backing out, pulling in, and jockeying for position. And of course, the jump-starting. It's particularly great for moving disabled or project cars. Remember, he'll need at least two of these—probably four.

Road & Track Premium Access Membership

This Father's Day, give Dad a behind-the-scenes look at Road & Track magazine with a Road & Track Premium All Access membership. He’ll receive unlimited digital access to RoadandTrack.com including exclusive content, Road & Track and Car and Driver magazines delivered to his doorstep, invitations to virtual editor roundtables hosted by R&T editors, inclusion on Road & Track’s member-only R&T Insider newsletter, discounts and free shipping on the Road & Track online shop, priority registration to Road & Track Experiences, and discounts on select events.

Plus, sign up between 6/1/23 – 6/19/23 for $50 off Premium All Access membership. It’s the perfect Father’s Day gift for the ultimate enthusiast.

Craft Beer Club Membership

When the drive is done, Dad can crack open an ice-cold craft beer from any number of independent craft breweries from all 50 states. Each monthly Craft Beer Club box showcases two different breweries from two different regions in the U.S., with four different beer styles (two from each brewery) that change each month. He'll also get plenty of craft-y swag.

Back to the Future Time Machine

Lego's latest edition of the iconic DeLorean time machine is a challenge that'll easily take up a weekend of unwavering focus. Featuring mini-figures of Doc and Marty, along with a light-up flux capacitor, the vehicle can be assembled in any of the three variations from the trilogy. The Lego Back to the Future Time Machine is perfect for any fanboy-ing dad who enjoys a bit of nostalgia. We put this together ourselves; check out the build here.

XTREAM Electric Pressure Washer for Cars

Combining gas-like power with the quiet and convenience of an electric, the XTREAM won't be strong enough for stripping your deck—but it's ideal for washing cars, trucks, boats, bikes, and more. The 13A motor packs up to 2200 psi to break down and strip away dirt, grease, and grime at up to 1.65 gallons per minute. The auto attachments and onboard foam cannon make car washing a breeze.

RX680 Walkie-Talkies

A good pair of walkie-talkies can be a lifesaver, especially if Dad plans on doing some off-grid adventuring. Cobra sent us a pair of these RX680 walkies to try, and we were impressed by the distance rating of up to 38 miles, waterproof construction, and built-in NOAA weather alerts. Whether he's out hunting or hiking, he'll appreciate these walkies to keep him in communication range.

'Eat. Sleep. Drive. Repeat.' T-Shirt

What dad wouldn't appreciate a super-soft T-shirt with his favorite automotive magazine's name on it? This 100 percent cotton tee comes with an "Eat. Sleep. Drive. Repeat." graphic on the front and a subtle Road & Track logo on the sleeve. Great for sleeping, wrenching, and driving in, it comes in dark blue.

Range Golf Bag

Perfect for when he only needs a few clubs, stash this stealthy range golf bag in Dad's trunk and he'll be ready anytime the fairway or driving range calls. The Loma weighs less than two pounds and holds up to seven clubs. With a built-in stand and an insulated pouch for drinks, it's bound to be Dad's new go-to golf bag.

R&T 'Live the Drive' Camp Mug

This rustic 16-ounce enameled camp mug is perfect for sipping coffee on chilly mornings at the campsite or drinking a rye on the rocks during cozy evenings by the fire. Made of heavy-gauge steel with a rolled lip for comfort. Pro Tip: Track Club members receive up to 25% off all R&T swag.

Give Dad an R&T Camp Mug

Mavic Mini Drone FlyCam Quadcopter

If Dad has always been fascinated by, but also perhaps intimidated by, drones, then this easy-to-use, lightweight quadcopter from industry leader DJI is the ideal gift. The Mavic Mini has 30 minutes of flying time, works with both iOS and Android, and weighs just half a pound. It still manages to capture aerial photos and smooth 2.7K HD video, thanks to a three-axis motorized gimbal. The app is a breeze to use, too.

Freek 560-1 EDC Folding Knife

A quality knife will last a lifetime, and there's no more quality a knife brand than Benchmade. The gray-and-black layered G10 is milled to provide excellent grip and style, while anodized aluminum barrel spacers bring an additional pop of color. The high-strength CPM-M4 blade is designed for hard use. Watch Dad's eyes light up when he pops this baby open on June 19.

drift Car Air Freshener

Drift car air fresheners combine sophisticated, functional design with real, designer and luxury grade scents. Made right here in the USA from sustainably sourced wood and magnetized to perfectly fit on your car visor with a metal clip, they use natural essential and fragrance oil blends to deliver a great scent free of harmful chemicals all day. Numerous scents are available.

MasterClass Gift Membership

With an immersive learning experience from experts, Dad can learn filmmaking from Steven Spielberg, how to cook from Gordon Ramsay, chess from Garry Kasparov—even how to develop a winning mindset as taught by Lewis Hamilton. A membership entitles Dad to as many classes as he'd like, and various plans include family streaming and more.

Thermal Camera for Smartphones

A cellphone-powered thermal camera is an excellent tool that provides hours of valuable information around the house. Available in Apple or Android versions, simply plug the camera into the phone's charging point and get to work. This will allow Dad to inspect the house or garage for hot spots, cold spots, and everything in between.

Battery-Powered Heated Coffee Mug

With a 10-hour battery life, the SmrtMugg keeps that Drive Coffee at Dad's desired temperature all day long. It even has a USB port to charge his smartphone. The double-walled, vacuum-insulated mug heats cold water in just 10 minutes, so it's great for tea, too. With no cords or bases required, this is a fantastic Father's Day gift for those dads who are always behind the wheel.

Car Enthusiast Poker Cards

Can't decide on a Father's Day gift? Don't want to spend a lot of money? Need something simple, quick, and easy? Here's the perfect solution for any car-loving dad. A standard set of 52 Car Enthusiast playing cards with two jokers, emblazoned with the front end of a Seventies muscle car. (It appears to be a Chevy Malibu. Kind of.)

Pure Eau de Toilette

Dad's gotta smell nice, too, and this fragrance from Porsche Design is a great choice, whether he's a car fan or not. Described as "radiating definitive exclusivity and masculine purism," the Porsche Design Pure Eau de Toilette features notes of grapefruit, sage, and ozone chord. Our sample bottle looks sharp and dignified, and the scent gives an overall warm and slightly peppery fragrance.