Great Gift Ideas for Car-Loving Dads For 2024 (2024)

This article was updated with fresh products and new information in May 2024.

As the gift season gears up, we recognize that finding the perfect gift for the automotive aficionados in our lives can be a challenge. Luckily we've got tons of car dads here at Road & Track, so we have a pretty good idea of what they like. We've navigated the gifting landscape with our expertise in our back pocket, bringing you gifts that will rev up the joy for every car-loving dad in your life. From cutting-edge gadgets to timeless classics, we've found something for just about every dad.

Along with these gifts, make sure to include something money can't buy: Spend some quality time with your dad, granddad, or other important men in your life. Go for a drive and share some laughs. In the end, that's what it's all about.

Looking for more great gifts? Check out our Best Gifts for Mechanics, Gifts for Outdoors and Car Camping, and the Best Gifts for Jeep Lovers

Dads of a certain age are sure to wonder, "what the heck am I supposed to do with that thing?" while dads of a younger generation are salivating at tackling virtual tracks with this awesome and affordable sim racing setup for Xbox and PC. Playstation users need this set.

If Dad loves an old-school barber shop shave, this Bugatti Limited Edition of the world's first heated razor just might be the perfect gift for him. The warming bar heats up in less than a second to provide the feeling of a hot towel shave with every stroke. Its has four heat sensors for a safe and consistent warmth, while five blades ensure a comfortable, close shave. The razor is 100% waterproof and features a premium-grade aluminum zinc handle.

Just like every dad needs a Leatherman, every dad also needs a ratcheting screwdriver with 13 sizes and styles of tips. This multi-bit screwdriver features a 1/4-inch driver shaft and a retractable cartridge with six double-ended bits: Phillips, square, Torx, and flat heads. It's perfect for the glovebox.

Widely regarded as the top GPS tracker on the market (for Apple/iOS), the AirTag is perfect for letting Dad keep track of his keys, cars, luggage, pets, etc.

Give Dad a behind-the-scenes look at Road & Track magazine with a membership. He’ll receive unlimited digital access to RoadandTrack.com including exclusive content, Road & Track magazine 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, and discounts and free shipping on the Road & Track online shop. It’s the perfect gift for the ultimate enthusiast.

Dash cams are too damn big! There, we said it. This mighty mite from Garmin breaks the mold by providing all (okay, most) of the dash cam/tech-y features anyone could want in a dash cam but at a fraction of the size; it measures just 1x2x1 inches. Even the most old-school dads will love using this dash cam.

Let's be honest: There are better radar detectors on the market. However, they'll probably cost twice as much as this one. Uniden's R3 perfectly splits the difference between features and affordability. With a built-in GPS, the R3 can mark geographical points where you commonly encounter radar transmissions, including speed traps, school zones, and speed cameras. With K and Ka band filtering, it also features voice alerts and free database and firmware updates to ensure Dad's detector will never be out of date.

Make a statement with these ultra-soft tees from Road & Track or Car and Driver. Whether Dad is the type to go for a quippy slogan or something more understated, one thing is for certain—he’s an enthusiast through and through.

Surprise surprise, Timberland makes fantastic driving shade—and they don't cost as much as Dad's car payment. Multiple sizes and styles are available, but we love these simple, classy injected frames with the brown tint lenses.

Chances are, your old man already has a Leatherman in his arsenal—heck, it's probably in his pocket right now. This is the latest version of Leatherman's most popular multi-tool, and every guy should have one.

If Dad loves his older car but wants to bring it into the modern era, the 7-inch Intellidash lets him access mapping and streaming apps, make hands-free Bluetooth phone calls, and so much more. It can be mounted on either the windshield or dash for easy access, and works with Android Auto, too.

Dad's gonna love this! Dometic’s smallest electric portable cooler is perfect for car camping and road trips. The CFX3 reaches temperatures as low as -7°F, while using less power than a 60W light bulb. It's ideal for off-roading because it's mounted on springs to isolate noise and reduce vibration. Powered by AC (110-240), DC (12 / 24 volt), or solar power, the Dometic phone app allows easy temperature monitoring and control.

The Chemical Guys Arsenal Builder Car Wash Kit, consisting of 16 pieces, offers all the essentials for thorough car cleaning. Featuring a complete array of high-quality cleaning products and accessories including a foam cannon, this kit guarantees a showroom-worthy shine, making it an ideal gift for fathers who cherish the appearance of their vehicles.

Designed to be folded for use as a mechanics stool, or unfolded for use as a creeper. The padded bed gives Dad extra comfort where it counts. It features six swivel casters and a heavy-duty frame that supports up to 300 lbs.

The LEGO Technic Porsche 911 RSR Race Car stands as the perfect present for those who are passionate about both engineering and iconic automobiles. This elaborate set enables them to construct a precise replica of the renowned Porsche 911 RSR, merging their love for cars with the delight of hands-on building.

Ideal for dads with a perpetual hustle, the Avigator portable coffee maker is a flawless choice. It connects to your car or truck's 12v outlet, enabling Dad to brew a cup whenever the craving strikes no matter where the road takes him. Especially convenient for those who work from their car or truck.

Dads with pickups will appreciate the boost they get from this AMP Research pickup bed step. It's easy to install himself, and it's engineered to support loads up to 300 lbs. Self-lubricating bushings provide all-weather performance, and aluminum alloy components and stainless steel pivot pins deliver stability AMP Research offers a comprehensive 5-year/60,000 mile warranty, too. This particular one fits the Dodge RAM but there are BedSteps for nearly every major pickup brand, plus Jeep.

The Drift Car Air Freshener provides a refreshing and revitalizing aroma, transforming each drive into a delightful experience. With its stylish design and enduring fragrance, it's a functional present for car enthusiasts who value a pleasantly scented vehicle. Several scents are available.

The Mobile Wallet magnetically consolidates your wallet and phone. Crafted for card-carrying minimalists (like Dad), it sports an on-demand fully-adjustable kickstand that holds up to seven cards and it all snaps shut with MagSafe-compatible heavy-duty magnets. Available in five colors.