2023 Gift Guide for Gearheads: Great Budget Friendly Gifts for Car Enthusiasts under $150

Nov 9, 2023

Get ready for gift giving season with another handy guide for Gearheads! We love everything about the items on this list, because they’re all quite useful gifts. They’re excellent options for the person who prefers practical items over frivolous things. You’ll find lots of budget friendly items on this list, too, making it a great resource to find white elephant gifts, office parties, and casual gift giving with friends. Plus, there’s some wonderful “stocking stuffer” ideas for small items for new and young drivers, too.

When the average driver notices the check engine light illuminated, it can cause a little bit of anxiety and nerves. Well, worry no more with your very own OBD II Diagnostic tool like this one from Foxwell. Simply plug-in your device to the native port on your vehicle, and follow the on-screen instructions. For the “fix-it” person on your gift list, this is a must-have, and for others with “a hunk of junk” clunker car, it can be an anxiety reducer. Get your car’s diagnosis in a jiffy, and rest easy knowing exactly what’s wrong in case you can’t get into your mechanic right away. Priced Under $100 at the time of publication.

Got caught with a flat, well, how about that. Never worry again with this rechargeable portable tire inflator and air compressor with included digital tire pressure gauge. It fits in the palm of your hand and easily stows in glove compartments and side pockets for convenient travel, and recharges with USB cables. It’s also easy to use when the sun goes down thanks to its super bright LED and bright or flashing mode options. Priced under $50 at the time of publication.

There’s never a bad time to clean your car inside and out. During the winter time, cleaning the interior can help reduce the spread of germs and viruses. Whether you’re cleaning the exterior of salt and muck or interior of grime and grit, this All Season Arsenal Builder Kit from the Chemical Guys is a must-have for the car enthusiast. Priced under $150.

For basic car care, you can’t go wrong with this cleaning kit from Armor All. The Ultimate Car Care Detailing Kit 8 Piece Set includes everything you need to dust, shine, polish, and condition your car inside and out. Priced under $50.

The Everlit Survival Car Emergency Kit includes everything you need to make the best of a crummy situation, and keeps you prepared for emergencies on the road. Includes a first aid kit, jumper cables, tow straps, flashlights, emergency items, flares and reflectors, and even an air compressor. It’s the perfect kit for new drivers or people who frequently commute. Priced under $100

If you’re searching for a gift for the gearhead who has it all, we recommend this super fun Custom Metal Garage Sign by CreativeNCustomized on Etsy. Choose your sign size, color, and add your personalization.

Mechanic Box Keychain Custom Name Mechanic Keychain Gift for image 2

This stocking stuffer sized gift is perfect for any mechanic! They can place all of their shop keys on this tool kit miniature key ring from LEAFshop on Etsy. Add your custom personalization with name! Priced under $20.

The Cobra Smart Dash Cam Full HD 1080P Resolution camera is perfect for keeping your loved ones safe on the road, as well as providing an extra layer of security while parked! Includes an 8GB SD card for storage. Priced under $150.

This lightweight Ingersoll Rand Impact Wrench gives over 600ft-lbs of torque, making it the perfect tool for both hobbyist and professional car mechanics! It provides comfortable grip and lightweight portability while delivering professional results and control. A great addition to any mechanic’s toolbox. Priced under $150.

We love when a car tool can “stow and go” and this cordless portable Car Vacuum does the trick! This rechargeable handheld vacuum cleaner provides strong suction with a brushless motor. Perfect for daily cleaning in all of those hard to reach nooks and crannies of your vehicle and tiny spaces between the seats. Priced under $75.

If you’re looking for a great beginner mechanic’s tool set on a budget, then look no further! We recommend the Kobalt 277-piece Standard (SAE) and Metric Polished chrome tool set with hard case. You’ll get everything you need to start your garage off on the right foot with all the bits and bobs required including drive ratchets, sockets, wrenches, and more. Priced under $150.