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At $239/month, the Hyundai Ioniq 6 is an electric car bargain

Riiight. Let’s not beat around the bush. Cheap electric cars (plus infrastructure) are what we need for widespread adoption of the breed, but the market seems scarce on any super appealing options. Sure, the Tesla Model 3 Standard Range, Chevy Bolt family, and Nissan Leaf are effective and dandy vehicles, but they’re not really model citizens in style, quality, or character, and the Fiat 500e is still on its way. We need more, I say! Well, Hyundai seems like it’s here to help since you can now score their Ioniq 6 EV for as low as a $239-a-month lease. Two-three-nine. Sick.

Hyundai Ioniq 6
Image credit: Hyundai

For reference, a comparable Model 3 can be leased for as low as $329 nowadays. Late last year, Bolts were leased for $299. And Polestar is currently advertising Polestar 2 leases for as low as $379. At an econobox-rivaling $239, the swoopy-droopy-looking Ioniq 6 has been making headlines and fueling social media banter for being the cheapest EV lease on the market today, creating an alluring deal for urbanites searching for a solidly built, comfortable, and stylish electric car devoid of egg-inspired aesthetics or questionable leadership ethics.

The stipulations are just as intriguing as the payment itself, leading to some questioning its validity and whether it’s all some pending April Fool’s prank that we’re bracing for. $0 down. 24 months. Mileage not disclosed. Still, not bad for two years with one of the more well-received grocery getters currently on sale. Alternatively, SE AWDs will lease for $349 for $349 down, while SEL AWDs will go for $449 for $449; both deals run for 24 months, should you care. Perhaps the biggest catch is that prospective lessees must act fast, as the deal expires on April 1.

The Ioniq 6 isn’t a bad car, either. With an MSRP of $42,450 for the SE trim and $50,150 for the Limited trim before incentives or fees, it’s not the most expensive nor the cheapest EV to buy. Rear-drive Long Range variants output 225 horsepower and 258 pound-feet, which is good for 0-60 in roughly six seconds and a Hyundai-estimated range of 361 miles. Dual-motor all-wheel drive saps range down to 316 miles but boosts performance to 320 ponies and 446 pound-feet. Non-Long Range variants make do with 305 miles of range while driving only the rear wheels or 270 miles with all-wheel drive. Battery capacity is either 53 or 77.4 kWh, depending on the range variant. In the unavoidable looks department, its fastback silhouette is clearly inspired by the likes of the Mercedes CLA and CLS, and its compact footprint makes it a sweetheart in urban commuting. The “borderline luxurious” interior, as described by Motor Trend, is typical Hyundai, which is to say modern, ergonomic, and totally functional.

Hurry and cop one quick if you’re in the market! April Fool’s is just around the corner. A shame such a good thing can’t stick around forever, especially for something that’s a fresh break from the bottomless sea of Teslas and Priuses. But that’s life and the cruel, cruel world of the auto industry.

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Valentines day gifts for car nerds
Buying GuidesDeals

Shop quirky Valentine’s Day gifts for the car nerds in your life

It’s about time to start thinking about grabbing a special gift for the special person. If that person happens to be a car nerd or gearhead, fear not. We here at Acceleramota have covered you for Valentine’s Day with the best gifts for the automobile enthusiast. I always say the best gifts are useful ones you wouldn’t necessarily buy yourself. Function and thoughtfulness were factors when we compiled this list.

1 — Innova 5610 OBD-II diagnostic tool

Image credit: Amazon

A diagnostic tool like this is a game changer, especially in the hands of a gearhead. Help your loved one keep their vehicle(s) in tip-top shape and aid them in getting solutions quickly with OBD2 and OEM data. They’ll know what to do with info for ABS, SRS, a transmission, and an engine. The Innova 5610 provides clear dealership-level re-learn procedures to complete repairs fast. Troubleshoot for foreign or domestic cars, trucks, SUVs, or hybrids as long as they were manufactured after 1996. It supports English, Spanish, and French and is a handy gift.

2 — Tires that aren’t bald

Image credit: Tirerack

Nothing screams romance like a set of new tires. Okay, maybe it’s not romantic, but keeping a loved one safe on new tires is very considerate. We are fans of Tire Rack here at Acceleramota, especially when it comes with road hazard protection for two years. They ship free directly to you or to one of their installers or one you have selected. Tire Rack has a wide variety of offerings for cars, trucks, SUVs, and both newer and older makes. But we recommend you check our best places to buy tires post, too, for a full scope before making a decision.

3 — 10mm socket (10-pack)

Image credit: Amazon

Having a set of sockets around is never a bad idea. There is nothing worse than losing a socket deep down under the hood. This will be even more painful if it’s the only one you have. This set can solve this very frustrating problem and is a kind gift. This is especially so if you’ve listened to your car nerd gripe about losing sockets or not having ones of the length they need. This particular set by Brazen has ten sockets: six 3/8″ drive, and four 1/4″ drive.

4 — Socket organizer

Image credit: Amazon

If you’re looking for a companion gift to that socket set, how about an organizer? This also works if you are just tired of clutter in the garage or your moto-babe is super messy. Help them literally clean up their station and get all those sockets in one place. Pick from a red or black tray to fit the right aesthetic for the garage. These trays are durable and can handle getting dirty with oil and grease.  Most brands’ standard socket sizes will fit, and one happy customer said, “It is almost therapeutic cleaning up a mess of sockets.”

5 — Toyota water pump gasket

Image credit: Amazon

Ignore how this looks. Did you stop laughing? Okay, welcome back.

This… is a water pump gasket and a very important part of your vehicle, er, in this case, a Toyota truck. This is a best-seller, and a buyer rated it five stars and said, “Better than the one that came with the water pump I bought from another supplier.” Of all the items on this list, this one is kind of romantic. This specific model of Toyota water pump gasket, found on Tacomas, 4Runners, and T100s for many years, has aroused (ha) many laughs on the internet for very obvious reasons, but surely you’ll be the one with the last laugh once that gasket job is complete.

6 — Owners’ Workshop Manuals

Image Credit: Amazon

I’m such a huge fan of these Owners’ Workshop Manuals. These make beautiful coffee table books and are great for motorsport fans. But even if they aren’t, these stand out and are very cool. There are a ton to choose from, so if they are motorsports fans, you can help them build an entire set. The Haynes Manuals are excellent options, too.

7 — LEGO Icons Porsche 911 10295 Building Set

Image Credit: Amazon

I love these LEGO sets as gifts, especially if you build them together. This is a great date night activity, and when you’re all done, your sweetie has an adorable decoration for an office or bookshelf. LEGO makes a few different versions, but I like this one because I’m a silly little Porsche fan. This set has 10,295 pieces, and you can build two different variations of the 911. It would look perfect on top of a Porsche 911-centric Owner’s Manual.

8 — Airmoto Tire Inflator Portable Air Compressor

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Built with the highest quality materials, Airmoto is a portable tire inflator for cars, trucks, SUVs, motorcycles, and bicycles. Quickly inflate your vehicle’s tires in just minutes with precision and accuracy up to 120 PSI. A compact car air pump that fits in your glove box or trunk is just so practical to have. This could be a huge relief on a very unfortunate day. It’s nice to be the hero sometimes.

9 — WeatherTech Trim to Fit Floor Mats – 4-Piece Set

Image Credit: Amazon

Another gift that someone might not necessarily purchase for themselves but is so useful are these floormates from WeatherTech. This is a trusted brand, so you know you are gifting quality. They are made from an advanced rubber-like thermoplastic compound and are easy to trim for an accurate custom fit. If your car lover is on the messier side or just has a lifestyle where things get dirty, this is an ideal present.

10 — Car Registration and Insurance Holder

Image Credit: Amazon

Did someone say disorganized? Get one of these registration/insurance holders for that loved one who never knows where anything is in their vehicle. Keep those very important documents safe and avoid the embarrassing situation of trying to locate them at the worst time.

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TikTok Accessories gift guide cover
Buying GuidesDeals

Here are 10 awesome TikTok car accessories for all your hyper-niche holiday needs

In just a few short years, TikTok solidified itself as not only an app for entertainment but more for information, especially in the commerce space. Watching creators share real and honest reviews on products has made several of these items go viral, and rightfully so. Getting to see a product be truly used has helped catapult small businesses and made life easier in several different categories. Here are a few of the best car accessories from viral TikToks, as sold on Amazon. Many are certainly odd yet lovable little doohickeys that only fellow internet weirdos may like, but some are sure to be fan favorites for you, too. So have a little fun this holiday season and happy shopping!

1) Portable Car Screen with 4k Dashcam

Amazon CarPlay/Android Auto screen
Image credit: Amazon

Dashcams have been a brilliant accessory for cars for a while now, and not just as a safety measure. If you have an older vehicle that isn’t equipped with the latest screens for navigation and entertainment, this is an easy-install alternative. These are a great asset for commuters or for those who do a lot of travel. Being able to record an unfortunate situation can help with accidents for you and for others. Easy access to maps, phone calls, music, podcasts, and more can improve the nightmare of driving in traffic or long distances. Also, we are certain law enforcement will appreciate you keeping your hands on the wheel and not any and all devices.

2) Mini USB Car Humidifier

Amazon car humidifier
Image credit: Amazon

A car humidifier might not be something you immediately think you need, but as someone who does a lot of road trips, it can be a necessity. Older vehicles with not-spectacular AC can be a menace to your lips and skin. Dry air blasting in your face and eyes for hours is a different kind of hell. This mini humidifier can run for up to nine hours in one mode or almost five hours in the other. It is UBS-powered and is whisper quiet if you’re a driver who likes the serene solitude of the open road sans noises. It shuts off automatically, fits securely in cup holders, and is a great companion for the winter months.

3) Smart Kup Car Cup Holder

Amazon Smart Cup
Image credit: Amazon

We live in a time of multiple water bottle preferences, and not all cup holders are created equal. This Smart Kup holder is not only a favorite of TikTok but Amazon as well. While this rose in popularity as everyone and their mother bought a Stanley, it fits plenty of other brands snuggly. Yeti, Hydro Flask, and Nalgene all work with this. What kind of blows my mind is just a regular coffee mug can even be tightly in one of these. I’m not that wily, but who am I to judge? I love my Amazon Basics water bottle, FYI.

Just don’t spill if you like to raw dog your open coffee mugs with java fresh from Hell’s pits.

4) Kei Project JDM Tsurikawa Ring

Amazon Tsurikawa handle/charm
Image credit: Amazon

Function and style. These Tsurikawa Rings are a definite statement piece and come in a ton of different colors and even shapes. These can absolutely just be decorations, from bumpers and mirrors. But if you’re someone who needs a little help getting into a vehicle that’s higher up, these are so helpful for you and your passengers. for that extra boost.

Also, who doesn’t want a little dash of cutesy JDM charm?

(Editor’s note! If the intent is to use this as a drift charm, you mount it hanging just beneath your back bumper. If it’s broken, scuffed, or torn off altogether after a drift session, you are running at an appropriate ride height. Don’t be a dunce who just mounts it anywhere on the exterior and still calls it a “drift charm.” I’ll fight you personally. Love, Jeric.)

5) EcoNour 2-in-1 Car Steering Wheel Tray

Amazon Tsurikawa handle/charm
Image credit: Amazon

We would never condone using one of these while driving; I’m not entirely certain how you could, but just don’t. However, if you do travel a lot and pitstop for meals or to check in with work, these trays are handy to have. Slipping easily onto the steering wheel makes meals less messy and more enjoyable. Car lunches don’t have to be a struggle when you’re already exhausted from driving. Slim, lightweight, and sturdy.

6) Drop Stop Car Seat Gap Filler

Amazon Drop Stop
Image credit: Amazon

Of all the products I’ve seen on TikTok, this one is top-tier, and it was even a Shark Tank selection. How many times have you had your keys, phone, or wallet fall between the cracks of the seat, door, or console? We are going to guess a lot. The Drop Stop slides right in and becomes the perfect gap filler, so you never have to dig for important wares again. You get two in a pack, and we guarantee your passengers will appreciate this as well.

7) Govee Car LED Smart Interior Lights

Amazon interior lighting kit
Image credit: Amazon

Aesthetic goes a long way, and if you want to be extra, grab these Govee LED Smart Lights. Govee is a great and reliable brand, so you know these car lights are going to be just as ace (like the Type-S underglow kit from our gearhead-specific gift guide, cough, cough). Over 74,000 happy customers can’t be wrong. Easy to install, almost anyone could figure out how to stick them up and connect via a car charger. Control the colors and patterns seamlessly from the Govee app. Pick a vibe that fits your tastes or even use these to set the mood on a romantic outing.

8) Panoramic Rearview Car Wide Angle Mirror

Amazon panoramic rearview mirror
Image credit: Amazon

If you’re someone who prefers a larger viewing range while driving the Panoramic Rearview Wide Angel Mirror is for you. Just snap this onto your current rearview mirror and expand your horizons, literally. The specific shape is designed to reduce blind spots and lessen distortion. It’s never a bad idea to add extra safety precautions. This smart accessory is compatible with most vehicles and is made with high-quality shatterproof glass.

9) Ceeniu Smart Car Air Freshener

Amazon car air freshener
Image credit: Amazon

Just because you can’t always have a “new car smell” doesn’t mean your vehicle should lack a calming scent. This little whiff dispenser comes battery-powered and can run up to 40 days. Cover up must, wet dog, baby diaper odors, and anything else that can happen while on the road. There are three different intensities to pick from for the days you need a little extra funk control. Grab one of the 17 refill scents when you run out too. Switch it up based on season or stay true to your vibe with something light and inviting to make any trip more enjoyable.

10) ThisWorx Car Vacuum Cleaner

Amazon car vacuum
Image credit: Amazon

Kids, pets, and significant others can all be messy on long and short trips. Accidents happen, so it’s best to be prepared for them. A portable car vacuum is a spectacular item to keep your four-wheeled dream pristine. Snap up crumbs, fur, dirt, and anything in between. With a 16-foot chord that plugs into the lighter, there’s plenty of slack to clean a long truck or even a van. Three different attachments give you options for appropriate picker-uppers. Don’t pay an arm and a leg for expert detailer again, now you can do it yourself with this 4-star rated wonder.

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Black Friday 2023: The best car tech & accessory deals
Deals

Cyber Monday 2023: the best automotive deals this weekend

Black Friday weekend 2023 is here, which is always a fun excuse to stuff the trunk of your car, truck, or SUV with all the Amazon automotive essentials you’ve put off buying long enough.

When do the Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals start?

Shoppers can find opportunities to save across TVs, smartphones, home goods, and yes, even automotive products. This season, Black Friday falls on November 24 with Cyber Monday coming up on November 27. And guess what? That’s right now, folks. Stay tuned on this page as we update this page with all of the best Amazon automotive accessory deals. We’ve gather up some current deals worth your while as well as just all-around great accessories any driver would be happy to have in their car.

Be sure to check out the other Black Friday and Cyber Monday roundups we’ve prepared to help your save money kitting out your vehicle.

In the days leading up to the event, watch this space for ongoing sales where you can still save a ton, and be sure to bookmark Deals on Wheels for the best daily car deals online, all year round.

Car care & tools

Kensun AC/DC power supply portable air compressor | 50% off

If you have a vehicle with 4WD, you might be looking forward to spending some time driving on the beach once it warms up again – maybe get a little fishing in. Of course, you’ll need to let some air out of your tires if you don’t want to get yourself stuck. When driving on sand, it’s best to lower the air pressure to between 20 to 25 PSI and then brought back up to between 32 to 35 PSI once headed back onto the road. Just keep this portable air compressor in the back of your car so you’re always ready to hit the beach.

Bilitools vacuum brake bleeder kit | 23% off

Flushing out old brake fluid or engine oil, this is the kit you need. Easy to operate as just one person, you simply attach a pump to the open bleeder screw and pull old fluid and air out of the braking system. It’ll flow into a container that’s included with the vacuum bleeder kit. And its all on sale for Black Friday.

Chemical Guys 14-piece car wash kit | 30% off

For the car enthusiast in your life that likes to keep their vehicle in tip-top shape. This bundle includes an assortment of car wash supplies including wet wax, wheel cleaner, attachments for a garden hose, and more — all from the best of the best to do it, Chemical Guys.

Chemical Guys is also running its own Black Friday promotion on its website. No code needed and you’ll get 25% off any order.

Bilitools thread repair kit | 5% off

This pack is designed for repairing damaged or stripped internal threads and creating a stronger internal thread for a wide range of automotive and plumbing applications.

Vondior tire pressure gauge | 37% off

It’s always handy to have a tire gauge in your car — especially during the colder months. Tire pressure can decrease about 1 PSI for every 10 degrees the temperature drops as the air condenses. Keep an eye on your tires through the winter with this.

Low-profile wireless tire pressure monitoring system | 31% off

This tire pressure gauge is a bit more fancy. It plugs into your cigarette lighter and pairs wirelessly with four external cap sensors that go on each of your tires. The display will then give you live feedback for both the pressure and the temperature for all of your tires.

Upholstery brush set carpet brush car | 10% off

This two-pack comes with a nylon brush and a soft horse hair brush for detailing your car. Keep your upholstery, mats, and wheels in tip-top shape.

Auto upholstery trim and molding removal tool kit | 16% off

This pack comes with 39 different pieces — each flexible and durable — to help keep your dashboard and more look brand, spankin’ new.

VanTrue N2 dash cam | $30 off

Returning to your car with a dent in your bumper because some moron tried to fit their Suburban-sized SUV in a Miata-sized parking spot is downright infuriating. But without knowing who did it, there’s not much you can do about it besides suck it up and file an insurance claim or ignore it and move on.

With a dash cam, however, you could review the footage and report the license plate so they’re held liable for the damage. There you go, a dash cam pays for itself after one incident, and the VanTrue N2 is one of the best-reviewed models you’ll find. Just make sure you account for cable management. I use these clips to keep wires out of my way when I’m cruising around in the Alfa Romeo.

Noco Genius Plus car battery jump starter | 20% off

With this, you’ll never again feel helpless on the side of the road with a dead car battery. Instead, you can give yourself a jump, thanks to the multi-voltage charger under the hood of this must-have for all drivers. We can’t count how many times we’ve had to use ours at NYCars & Coffee to help out random drivers.

Gooloo jump starters | 33-57% off

A whole slew of options for jump starters from Gooloo are part of the Black Friday sales event. You can snag one for as low as $30.

1600A battery jump starter | 30% off

Jump start your car when your in trouble or even use the battery bank to charge your smartphone, tablet, or other mobile devices.

Meguiar’s hybrid ceramic liquid wax | 49% off

No streaking or smearing—just an all-in-on ceramic coating spray to keep your car clean and polished for long-lasting protection.

ThisWorx car vacuum cleaner | 54% off

Amazon has an extensive assortment of car care products, be them this odd cleaning gel that, while it looks weird, actually does work like a charm. As does this best-selling portable vacuum. It comes with a variety of detailing attachments to keep the inside of your vehicle as pristine as the day you drove it off the lot.

Milwaukee LED work light | 15% off

Allow yourself to have ample light when working under the hood. This Milwaukee cordless flood light is compatible with all Milwaukee 18V M18 Li-ion batteries and can even has built-in USB-A and USB-C ports to charge your devices.

Vickjes windshield repair kit | $5 off

Seriously. It’s cheap and easy to do yourself. What are you waiting for? Fix your windshield.

VacLife AC/DC 2-in-1 tire inflator | 27% off

The first rule of driving on the beach is to deflate your tires. The second rule is don’t forget to fill them back up when you’re done wrestling those sandy dunes.

Roadside assistance emergency car kit | 9% off

Make sure you have everything you need when you hit the road. This pack has a first aid kit, jumper cables, tow strap, LED flashlight, rain coat, safety vest, and more. You know, A bunch of things you hope you’ll never need, but you’ll be glad to have it when you do.

Interior accessories

Phone mount | 45% off

Image credit: Amazon

Not every driver is lucky enough to have a large display screen in the center of their dashboard for GPS and music. That doesn’t matter though because you can just use your phone for all of that. Just be safe and use a car phone mount. I don’t want to see any more drivers looking down at their laps while going 80.

Anker USB-C car charger | 20% off

A lot of cars have built-in USB ports, but a lot of the time they’ll struggle to keep your phone even at the percentage its already at. This charger has two USB-C ports and uses Power Delivery to achieve super fast charging with almost any mobile device.

Super Liner floor mats for Tesla Model 3 | 43% off

Keep the floors of your vehicle clean with the help of these all-weather cargo liners — designed for use with the Tesla Model 3.

Lusso Gear car seat protector (2-pack) | 20% off

Congrats on the new baby! I just hope you’re keeping care of your backseats in the car. These seat protectors lay on top of the seat underneath your child’s car seat to keep them shielded from damage and stains. And it comes with two!

Lusso Gear dog car seat cover | 5% off

Us dog owners love to take our dog on the road, but let’s be mindful whenever we’re picking up our human friends. This seat protector will shield your back seat from scratches, scuff, mud, and, most importantly, shedding. No more hair everywhere.

Digital GPS speedometer & car compass | 25% off

When Aiden Pearce hacks your infotainment system, rendering it useless, a car compass comes in clutch. At least you’ll know you’re not driving in the wrong direction.

Tevlaphee steering wheel lock | 15% off

Give yourself that extra bit of assurance by locking your steering wheel in place when you park.

Lusso Gear car trash can with hooks | 5% off

Cars get messy. It’s only natural. Sometimes, that Starbuck cup ends up on the passenger side floor. Maybe you tossed that used napkin over your shoulder to the backseat. Stay on top of your mess with this handy hanging garbage bag. It’s waterproof and has a removable liner. You passengers will appreciate it.

Exterior accessories

Truck bed tent | 23% off

No need to set up your tent in the dumb dirt. Camp like a champ with a 6′ truck tent that builds around the bed of your pickup. It sleeps two people comfortably , has two mesh windows, and is super easy to set up. It’s also both waterproof and windproof.

Universal car rooftop cargo bag | $35 off

There’s no such thing as too much storage. This roof carrier cargo bag is a must-have for any camp outing or road trip for families. The material is both waterproof and tearproof and it’s easy to strap in. You’ll be able to hold between four and six suitcases inside.

Autel electric vehicle chargers | 34% off

If you’ve just switched to an EV to take advantage of the major tax credit, be sure to checkout our write-up on different EV chargers to find which one is right for your vehicle and home.

2 trailer wheel chocks with rope and wheel dock for boat trailer | 10% off

It’s getting to that time to take the boat out of the water for the season. Keep your trailer in place with these chock blocks this Black Friday.

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Acceleramota Car Enthusiast Holiday Gift Guide Feature Photo
Buying GuidesDeals

These are the best gifts for the car enthusiast in your life

It’s that time of the year for merriness, camaraderie, and caving into the materialistic desires of a highly capitalistic culture! It’s the holiday season, and now is the time to snag some hot gifts for the car enthusiast in your life while the egg nog is fresh and Mariah Carey is still thawing from her stasis.

Are you considering surprising your gearhead (or yourself) with some trick new car parts? How about some unique and fashionable apparel? Or how about bits and bobs to make their average commute a little more forgiving? Because God forbid, they dare take their battered project car to work. Everything and more, tailored specifically for the geekier of hobbyists, can be found in our lovely little holiday gift guide at your disposal. 

Car parts

MBRP exhausts

MBRP Exhausts
Image credit: MBRP

MBRP is a budget-friendly exhaust manufacturer that makes just about any exhaust for nearly any vehicle, on or off-road. How can I be so sure of their worth? Because I rock them. My friends rock them. My old gig at an aftermarket retailer rocked them on shop cars. And they’re a strong value proposition, undercutting some rivals by hundreds of dollars. Although some consumers and a few friends reported some tinny raspiness on the most aggressive exhausts, the muffled systems my colleagues and I use are fairly civil and drone-free, with enough bark to remind us we have something special. Most retailers will sell some lineup of MBRP systems, including domestic-centric American Muscle or import-centric Speed Industry, for example. However, we’ve linked their site above to let you pinpoint exactly what car you’re looking for.

Powerstop brakes

Powerstop Brakes
Image credit: Amazon

Once again, harping on budget-friendly yet highly effective options, we have Powerstop brakes, the perfect upgrade for your street or canyon car that you can buy on Amazon, believe it or not. Among their hottest sellers and brakes I personally stand by as a fantastic budget performance option is their Extreme Z26 pad lineup, which includes carbon and ceramic in its composition to provide long-lasting performance that’s never let me down in spirited canyon runs. Those looking for even more capability under harsher driving conditions can opt for their Track Day pads, but note that they’re quite aggressive, as track pads often are, and will decimate any rotors that aren’t up to snuff with such performance levels.

Type-S lighting kits

Type S Lighting Kit
Image credit: Type S Auto

Just because Halloween is over doesn’t mean you still can’t rock that Spooky Shreds aesthetic. A longtime sponsor of Formula D and a big player in reviving interest in underglow, you can grab a set online or at nearly any Autozone. The Formula DRIFT full car kit linked above comes complete with light strips for all sides, plus app connectivity for setting your mood lighting on the fly. Customers frequently commend the sheer brightness and numerous lighting modes at a fairly decent value, but some concerns have been raised over hardware quality and waterproofing. And their universal application may require modification for installation on some cars. But, I mean, come on. Does this not look awesome, or what? Get a little goofy and have some fun with something like this. 

Car enthusiast accessories

GT//Rotors 4-keychain set

GT Keychain Set
Image credit: Amazon

Behold, the cheapest thing on this guide by a sizable margin and one you can hand out to all your car buddies. This keychain set includes a gunmetal wheel, a brake caliper with an actual spinning rotor that tragically has no ventilation for Stuart Little’s upcoming GP race, an adjustable wrench, and one of those trendy turbo whistle keychains. Yes, it reportedly functions as advertised. You blow into it, the impeller spins and generates what a few reviewers described as an obnoxious, high-pitched whine. Did anyone expect anything different? Come on, now. Enjoy this cheap and cheerful gift idea, but be wary of products reportedly getting damaged or missing during shipping or transit.  

BRIDE JDM bi-fold wallet

BRIDE Wallet
Imade credit: Amazon

Here’s another affordable option and one for the JDM merch fans! I actually own this BRIDE wallet after purchasing it weeks ago at GRIDLIFE Laguna, and it proved to be a surprisingly robust and accommodating successor to my janky, old leather wallet, with plenty of space for cards and IDs while still having leftover pockets. And while it’s no Ridge wallet, it’s slim enough to be far less intrusive in my pants pockets than any wallet I’ve had. Any fan of the brand or JDM car culture will be quite pleased with this offering for the $15 or so that it costs. Just know that while it’s not as thick, it is “taller.” It’s better for concealing cards and cash with nothing sticking out, but smaller pants pockets may find it hard to get along with.

Samsonite lumbar support pillow

Samsonite pillow
Image credit: Amazon

Don’t look at me like I’m some geriatric weenie. This is as handy to office drones and 9-to-5 commuters as it is to those who took “fuck it, we ball” to heart when purchasing those racing buckets. Fill the void in your project car’s lackluster comfort with this portable lumbar pillow by Samsonite. The memory foam and mesh construction make it light, plush, and breathable, while the wrap-around strap enables its use in nearly any seat, whether in-office or in-car. It can also be paired with various Samsonite comfort accessories like neck pillows or bottom cushions. Perfect for when the regret of snagging those eBay bucket seats finally hits.

Car enthusiast apparel

Simply Carbon Fiber fashion accessories

Simply Carbon Fiber Watch
Image credit: Simply Carbon Fiber

If you’re the type of person to check every carbon option box on the BMW or Porsche configurator, this is the brand for you. Cave into your addiction with Simply Carbon Fiber lifestyle and fashion accessories, ranging from a broad selection of – you guessed it – carbon goods, from wallets and sunglasses to watches. Yes, watches. And they actually look quite nice for a great price, with three different styles ranging from 40mm to 42mm dials. And while we have them listed here under apparel for their impressive selection of tastefully styled goods, they also provide plenty of other goods that’d be right at home under accessories like car phone mounts, phone cases, and chargers. 

Blipshift t-shirts

Blipshift shirts
Image credit: Blipshift

Here’s a kickass offering that’s been slinging apparel for car enthusiasts of all calibers for many years. Blipshift is a collection of various art submissions brought to life through your choice of shirts, sweaters, and more. And when I say car enthusiasts of all calibers, I mean it. This is a brand for all, regardless of your taste or age. It’s not brand-centric or JDM-centric or domestic-centric. It’s just gearhead stuff for nearly any gearhead. Want a cutesy Miata shirt? Or one with old F1 cars? Or how about a Ram pickup, if that’s your jam? If it’s on Blipshift’s calendar of constantly-circulating designs, then there you go. Their print quality is fairly robust and long-lasting, as my BMW M shirt from Blipshift has lasted roughly 11 years with minimal wear and tear. 

Hoonigan t-shirts

Hoonigan censor bar shirt
Image credit: Amazon

Can’t talk car merch without the OGs, whose name is now as synonymous with gear and apparel as it is with their racing team. Nothing too extravagant. Nothing too outlandish. Just plain, simple shirt designs like this censor bar logo listed on Amazon. Of the various bits of merch I’ve acquired from many different brands, these are among the handful that actually fit true to size with no second-guessing on whether a medium may run smaller or larger than anticipated. One complaint I do have is that their colored logos on other shirts may fade easier in the washer than similar shirts from different brands, but that could just be solved with extra care and attention come laundry day.

Tuned In Tokyo t-shirts

Tuned In Tokyo Shirt
Image credit: Tuned In Tokyo

Tuned In Tokyo seems to have stormed onto the car scene with great success, constantly rolling out new designs and becoming increasingly common at auto shows and car meets. For those who love far more elaborate designs, especially those heavily influenced by JDM car culture and Asian-American streetwear, there’s plenty to like about this brand. Just take their reportedly top-notch shirts and prints with a big fat asterisk, as many customers in prior years have reported delays in shipping with minimal updates on when items will be shipped or restocked if backordered. The items have been well-received for quality and aesthetic appeal but are offset by the company’s shaky customer service. However, if you’re willing to play the gamble, know it’d be far-fetching to find other apparel like this elsewhere.

Donut Media t-shirts

Donut Media shirt
Image credit: Donut Media

In tandem with Hoonigan, Donut Media is now a top-shelf competitor for car merch, catering to dedicated fans of the media brand with self-referencing shirt designs and project car tributes. Suppose you ever wanted shirts and other apparel with catchphrases from that loud dude who taught us about our favorite childhood icons in 10-to-15-minute bursts. In that case, this is your move. An interesting observation with Donut apparel is that my colored Boost Creeps shirt appears to have faded significantly less than my Hoonigan censor bar shirt, so props to whatever materials go in every product. I will say that with Donut merch being self-referential, appeal to non-fans may be limited aside from a few car-specific items, like this EJ boxer engine shirt.

Car enthusiast gaming

Logitech G923 racing wheel and pedals

Logitech G923
Image credit: Amazon

The Logitech G923 frequently finds itself on numerous buying guides and “best items” lists for a good reason, likely the same reasons it’s now mentioned here. It’s a damn fine sim wheel setup at a reasonable price, enabling you to get a jump on an eSports career without totally breaking the bank. It’s not specific to a console, enabling its use for both Xbox and Playstation and can be purchased by itself or paired with a manual shifter for added involvement beyond the standard paddle shifters. Other neat tidbits include leather upholstery and metal pedals, a gear-type steering system with force feedback, and programmable launch control. At roughly $350, it’s frequently praised for its strong value, featureful standard equipment list, and robust build quality, even for an alleged “beginner’s” sim wheel setup. 

Playseat Trophy Logitech G Edition sim racing cockpit

Playseat Logitech Edition
Image credit: Amazon

This Playseat Trophy Logitech G Edition aims to deliver a proper experience compared to the simpler, cookie-cutter designs. Yes, it sits at a fairly lofty price point when the more generic setups can ring in at less than half the price. But I’d argue the Playseat Trophy proves its worth through its side bolstering, contoured seat shape, and angled seat bottom, which would better convey the sensation of an actual racing bucket. The adjustable pedal plate allows you to place your legs and feet right where you want them, while its slim profile and small size make it easier to store. Customers acclaim this product for its sturdy build and little-to-no perceivable shake or play, although a few have wished for quicker adjustment methods instead of the standard screw-type adjustments. Users over six feet tall may also find themselves pushing the limits of a comfortable driving position. 

Car enthusiast literature

Go Like Hell by A.J. Baime

Go Like Hell w AJ Baime
Image credit: Amazon

You’ve probably heard this title tossed around since Ford V. Ferrari dropped in theaters a few years ago. Well, here’s the book that inspired it, based on the same true story of Carroll and Ken versus the world. As expected for having influenced the movie, Go Like Hell has been acclaimed for taking what can easily appear to be an all-business affair between automakers and telling its tale in a way that truly highlights the heroes and villains, bringing to light the motivations, trials, and tribulations behind those involved in one of automotive history’s most iconic legends. 

How To Build A Car by Adrian Newey

How To Build A Car w Adrian Newey
Image credit: Amazon

A star highlight from Sheilah’s guide to Formula 1 literature, How To Build A Car is a worthwhile read that has seen its fair share of public exposure and discussion. While it does delve into the individuals involved, like Go Like Hell, this book focuses more on the technical know-how that goes into building one of the fastest, most fiercely competitive race cars on the planet. Spoiler alert: it’s not easy. The behind-the-scenes tech dives are often noted as a little hard to digest for those who aren’t as mechanically inclined, but it still makes for a riveting book. And do yourself a favor and buy the physical hardcover copy. It’d look fan-freaking-tastic on your coffee table or desk. 

Road & Track Crew’s Big & Fast Cars by Dan Bova, R&T editorial team

Road & Track book
Image credit: Amazon

So. Uh. They say this is for kids. But you bet your ass I want a copy for myself. In keeping with Road & Track’s transition into a glitzier lifestyle magazine in recent years comes some gearhead geekery that the youngins can clamor over. Keep them occupied this winter with over 700 facts and countless photos of the latest and greatest cars, teaching them various facts from how cars have four wheels to what horsepower and engine configurations mean (yes, I’m serious). And it all comes slapped together in a chic manner evocative of the magazine it hails from. Heck, you might even want to borrow it when your kids aren’t looking.

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"Wash me" written by finger on a dusty car
Deals

This is your last chance to save up to 40% off Chemical Guys car wash supplies for Prime Day 2023

As convenient as it is to stop by your local car wash on your way home from work, it doesn’t take long for those weekly hand washes to start adding up. And, if you’re regularly rolling through mechanized friction brushes, you have an even bigger bill to look forward to, in the form of a new paint job. Long-term, the least costly and least harmful choice is to wash your own vehicle. But where do you turn when you lack the supplies needed to get the job done right for a reasonable price? Well, for myself, as well as most people I know, Chemical Guys is the GOAT. (That’s GOAT as in “Greatest of All Time,” not Billy.)

Believe it or not, unlike the last Prime Day held just three months ago, the Amazon Prime Day automotive deals of October don’t suck as much. While it’s not the only brand on offer, Chemical Guys has stolen the spotlight from once-household names like Armor All, proof that prominent placement on the shelf at your local Walmart is no longer a viable substitute for cultivating brand loyalty.

Few car enthusiasts will tell you they only buy Armor All. But Chemical Guys is different. Despite being around since the late 1960s, the brand didn’t catch on until the early aughts when it started showcasing its products at car shows and other types of automotive events. With more people than ever doing most of their shopping online, seeing Chemical Guys cement its place in the hearts of enthusiasts comes as no surprise. In effect, its popularity trickles down to everyone else with a hose and a bucket.

It’s not just lip service, though. Chemical Guys products deliver. Hell, I have the waterless car wash and glass cleaner sprays sitting on my desk right in front of me. I gave my dad a Chemical Guys kit a few holidays back, and in return, he gifted me a different set a couple years later. Chemical Guys makes stuff that’s high quality yet affordable, a rarity in today’s economy. Chemical Guys also makes a lot of stuff, much of which is on sale for Amazon Prime Day 2023 – at least for the next few hours.

Chemical Guys 16-piece Arsenal Builder | 40% off

Chemical Guys 16-piece cleaning kit on sale for Prime Day 2023
Image credit: Gabe Carey (Acceleramota)

THIS – and I cannot stress this enough – is one of the best Prime Day deals you’ll find in the automotive department. When Amazon calls it a Big Deal, you know it’s a big deal. Whether you just started driving or you recently got a car you care about too much to let someone else wash it, the Chemical Guys 16-piece Arsenal Builder is a bargain at $91, or 40% off.

Chemical Guys 14-piece Arsenal Builder | 40% off

Image credit: Gabe Carey (Acceleramota)

If you can do without the Speed Wipe quick detailer spray and microfiber mitt, the Chemical Guys 14-piece Arsenal Builder is nearly identical to the 16-piece kit, but for $19 less.

Other great Chemical Guys deals to consider:

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Deals

Shop the best Prime Day bargains on car wax to truly make your ride sparkle

A practice as ancient as the martial arts: waxing. No car detailing job is complete with some good old-fashioned wax. Whether it’s that thick, goopy stuff out of a tub or that quick-and-easy magic sauce in a spray bottle, a good car wax can add a layer of protection and shine to your car that you never knew you were capable of adding. And as much as I personally hate washing cars, I do love the satisfaction of watching that wax sparkle like diamonds once it’s said and done. So, with Amazon Prime Day deals still ongoing at the time of writing, do yourself a favor and treat your car’s paint to some car wax at a great price. Your clear coat will thank you later.

Meguiar’s Hybrid Ceramic Liquid Wax | 49% off

Meguiar's Car Wax
Image: Amazon

Although not explicitly listed as a Prime Big Deal, it sure as heck should be. At a mere $15 when writing, this top-notch liquid wax from a big-name legacy brand slashes nearly half off its original sticker price for the same great quality. This 16-ounce bottle is loaded with Meguiar’s hybrid ceramic formula, reportedly good for long-lasting protection, excellent water-beading, and a glistening shine we yearn for so much in a good car wax. Numerous gilded reviews praising its ability to make good on its claims make it one of the most acclaimed detailing products on Amazon.

Meguiar’s Waterless Wash & Wax | 49% off

Meguiar's Car Wax
Image: Amazon

For those who live and die by “Ain’t nobody got time for that,” Meguiar’s Waterless Wash & Wax is a great on-sale solution for those who put bandaids over stab wounds. Kidding! But in all seriousness, there’s nothing wrong with a quality quick detailer in a pinch, especially when your ride’s a little dusty at the car show, and you just need to give it a rapid, wax-like sparkle in seconds. No water is necessary, the clear coat remains protected while bolstering any existing wax, and Meguiar’s claims it’s also safe for use on chromes, plastics, and glass.

Aerolon Tech Shine Ceramic Polymer Car Wax | 20% off

Aerolon Car Wax
Image: Amazon

Here’s an oddball choice by an oddball brand. Aerolon’s Tech Shine Ceramic Polymer is the perfect choice for car nerds. Or bikes. Or boats. Or planes. Or just about everything in between. Being an Air Guardsman, I can infer that “aircraft grade” likely means higher strength and concentration to ensure the integrity of the wax layer when exposed to freezing ambient temps, the heat of the engines, or immense speeds. It reportedly won’t deliver show-stopping, Concours-level shine, but it’ll certainly take care of that clear coat for a long time. So, if you’re looking for a reliable shine for your 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse or your P-51D Mustang warbird, this is the liquid wax for you.

Turtle Wax Hybrid Ceramic Spray Coating | 18% off

Turtlewax Car Wax
Image: Amazon

Here’s a take on the popular spray wax formula by the legacy wax brand that literally has it in its name. Its hybrid formula provides a trustworthy barrier against water and grime and can reportedly last up to six months between applications. Akin to quick detailers and wash-and-waxes, it’s also safe for use on chromes, plastics, and glass. And dare I say, it’s a heck of a deal right now at less than $14 per 16-ounce bottle. Normal pricing still sits at a budget-friendly $17.

Turtle Wax Hybrid Solutions Ceramic Graphene Paste Wax |
20% off

Turtlewax Car Wax
Image: Amazon

Ah, we can’t have a car wax round-up without ever featuring one for the traditionalists who value the potency and superiority of old-school paste wax. Miyagi would be proud to smear this on this fleet on classic Americarna. Long popular for liquid and sprays, this paste now features a hybrid ceramic and graphene formula for enhanced UV protection and slickness that will make an afternoon of waxing on and waxing off worth its weight in spades. 

Chemical Guys Hydro Slick Ceramic Coating Hyperwax | 19% off

Chemical Guys car wax
Image: Amazon

The hot new name on the market strikes back with their hot-ticket ceramic car wax. And boy, does that bottle look good sitting on a shelf next to some Pit Vipers and the keys to a C4 ZR-1. Chemical Guys claims to have introduced the first-ever “hyperwax,” with unmatched protection, slickness, and shine with its silicone dioxide gel-based formula. And most intriguing of all, it’s claimed to be safe for all surfaces, including glass and chromes. Given Chemical Guys’ strong track record of highly effective products, I have no reason to doubt them, and neither should you.

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prime day toy cars feature
Deals

Hurry and shop toy cars with awesome Amazon Prime Day bargains for the young enthusiast in your life

Who doesn’t love some toy cars to fan the flames of your passion? As car people, we’ve long been fervent collectors from birth, and we always will be until death. Or, perhaps there’s a tot in your life you want to gaslight into walking the path of burning rubber and sonorous tailpipes. Either way, Acceleramota has you covered! It’s Spooky Month, which means the holiday season is just around the corner, so it’s time to take advantage of Amazon and their Prime Day deals to snag the kids – or yourself –  some rad toy cars to make the autumn months just a little more fun. 

Toy cars for the builders

Lego Speed Champions McLaren Solus GT & F1 LM | 16% off

Lego Speed Champions McLaren
Image credit: Amazon

An Amazon’s Choice winner and a mega car nerd special, here’s one for the McLaren fanatic! Snap together millions of dollars of McLaren history condensed into $30 of plastic bricks. As with other Speed Champions sets, this is a beautiful display of McLaren’s old and new flagships, the Solus GT track day special and the one-of-two F1 LM supercar. Oh, and two minifigures to boot, minifigures that look like they’re having a grand ol’ time.

Lego Speed Champions Mercedes-AMG W12 E Performance & Project One | 17% off

Lego Speed Champions Mercedes-AMG
Image credit: Amazon

Now, here’s what I’d like to call a Sheilah Special. For the young F1 fans out there or just fans of Mercedes in general, this Speed Champions set honors Mercedes-AMG’s current efforts on both the road and track. This set features a beautifully shrunken-down reimagining of the W12 E Performance Formula 1 car and the Project One (now called ONE) hypercar it inspired, complete with swappable wheel caps and two drivers. 

Lego Technic McLaren Senna GTR | 20% off

Lego Senna GTR
Image credit: Amazon

Time to get a little more technical. Part of a lower echelon in Lego’s more advanced Technic line, this is perhaps their most accurate car model, as the real Senna features just as many cuts, gaps, and holes as a Technic car. The construction nearly matches the body of a real Senna GTR, complete with a moving mid-mounted V8 and functional steering.

Lego Technic Sián FKP 37 | 16% off

Lego Technic Lamborghini Sian
Image credit: Amazon

The pièce de résistance of any Lego car collector. This nearly 3,700-piece 1:8 model of Lamborghini’s supercapacitor hybrid supercar is among their line of top-shelf, premium sets. From the replica center-lock wheels to the functional scissor doors and mini luggage bag, this set is perfect for the builder looking for the next big challenge. 

Toy cars for the collectors

Hot Wheels Exotics Madness random 5-pack

Hot Wheels supercars
Image credit: Amazon

Here’s a cheap and cheerful way to satisfy the inner car nerd while filling up that empty face on a desk or shelf. This randomized assortment will include any five of Hot Wheels’ array of licensed supercars. Anything’s game, from classic supercars like the McLaren F1 or Bugatti EB110 to modern hypercars like the Pagani Huayra. In an age where many specialty Hot Wheels models sticker for several dollars more just for one car, this assortment pack is an excellent way to build the collection without breaking the bank.

Hot Wheels Fast & Furious 5-pack

Hot Wheels Fast & Furious pack
Image credit: Amazon

Continuing the trend of affordable collectibility, here’s a 5-pack treat for any fans of that one wacky and convoluted car/heist movie series. This car pack spans multiple films in the franchise, from the first film’s iconic Charger R/T and Supra to even the divisive Tokyo Drift RB26-swapped Ford Mustang.

Toy cars for the drivers

Best Choice 12V Kids Ride-On Truck

Totally not a Jeep Wrangler from Amazon
Image credit: Amazon

Ah yes. The very obvious Jeep Wrangler for the tiny off-roader in your life. Because, I mean, seriously. You don’t really have a choice in buying this for anyone else other than your kids. Although, you’re more than welcome to wedge yourself in for our amusement. Complete with functional doors, a Bluetooth radio, and a seatbelt, this ride-on electric truck can be piloted by your child or by you via the included remote control!

Kidzone 12V Ride-On Lamborghini Aventador SV | $20 off

Ride-on Aventador SV
Image credit: Amazon

For future supercar hype beasts, this licensed Aventador makes good on its premium price tag with actual, hydraulically-assisted scissor doors and two speed settings. It also comes in your choice of eight vivid colors and includes a USB stereo system… for some reason. Like the not-a-Jeep-Wrangler above, parents have the choice of commandeering their kid’s joyride via a remote control.

Toy cars for the Prime Day deal hunters

Hot Wheels Total Turbo Takeover track set | $10 off

Hot Wheels Turbo Takeover set
Image credit: Amazon

Take yourself or your kiddos back to your youth of scaled-down cartoonish drag racing with the Total Turbo Takeover play set. Watch as your overpriced collector’s Hot Wheels you snagged at a Cars N’ Coffee is catapulted around a bend, through the loop, and into the odd choice of Indiana Jones-style traps. I don’t think this track layout makes sense, but neither did the logic in the Hot Wheels movies, yet 7-year-old me thought those were the coolest races to hit TV. So take a little trip back down memory lane. 

Kidami Die-Cast Toy Cars 5-pack | $12 off

die cast toy car 5-pack
Image credit: Amazon

Remember the stand at the corner of the toy aisle in every Wal-Greens pharmacy or Smith’s grocery store? Yeah, help yourself to a pack of those at a great price! At a time when one single car from those stands can ring in anywhere between $15 to $30, you can snag this five-pack of unlicensed badgeless replicas for the cost of one with current sale pricing. Not the most detailed selection of model cars, but they’re pretty dang close. I don’t think the kids will mind. 

12V Kids Ride-On Car | $20 off

Totally not a G-Wagon on Amazon
Image credit: Amazon

Currently undercutting our other ride-on cars due to a massive sale, this totally-not-a-Mercedes-G-Wagon offers much of the same features for less! Your tots can enjoy the auxiliary stereo system, elevated ride height, and, perhaps best of all, an interior actually modeled to resemble the real G-Wagon’s dashboard and center stack. Not a bad touch for something you’ll never fit in.

SASBSC Maserati MC20 Light-Up & Pull-Back Model Car | $5 off

diecast Maserati MC20 model
Image credit: Amazon

Here’s an exciting one! Haven’t seen a pull-back car with functional lights since 2 Fast 2 Furious was new, but this Maserati MC20 die-cast is certainly cooler than the plastic Honda Civic I had with the same features. This 1:32-scale model is constructed fully out of metal, complete with functional lights, its own display stand, and working doors, frunk, and engine cover.

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Integra Type S
Buying GuidesFeatures

Tire sealant saved my ass and it can save yours too

Behold the most star-studded write-up about what’s seemingly the most lazily hashed-together roadside solution to ever come with any new car or sit on shelves at your nearby Autozone. But! I insist it’s worth talking about. Hey, you clicked on this, didn’t you? You made that choice. Now sit here and read about me rambling all about tire sealant and tire repair kits.

Story time!

You know, those gimmicky little toy chests that come under the back seat or in the trunk of your shiny new car? Or perhaps you’ve seen them collecting dust on shelves at stores. They’re those things you read about in dealership brochures or press releases and think, “Oh geez, I really wish you just included a damn spare tire at that point.” But turns out, at least for anything short of your tire exploding or being straight-up stolen, we shouldn’t underestimate tire sealant.

While we’re on this, allow me to also state that road debris should not be scoffed at, no matter how small. If they weren’t, I wouldn’t be writing this stupid article. But no. Some missing chunk of someone’s crap-pile jalopy at a turnout in Angeles Crest Highway chose me as its lucky winner and dressed the tire of my Integra Type-S loaner as Venom Snake from Metal Gear Solid V. There was a triangular shard in the center tread block, which would have been repairable if not for its size creating a big enough slash for America’s Tire to deem it as a must-replace.

Integra Type S
Image: Jeric Jaleco

Thankfully, the Acura press fleet manager notified me that they had full replacement wheels and tires on hand and could swap out the impaled rubber so long as I could make it from my friend’s place in Palmdale to their HQ in Torrance. So I made the journey the morning after the puncture after having already racked up 50-ish miles and was about to rack 80 more. As sketchy as that was, it was a trip I couldn’t have completed if the tire sealant kit in the trunk didn’t do such a commendable job at, well, its job.

People always taught me sealant kits were gimmicks and to never bother with them. And to a degree, which we’ll discuss at the end, they’re kind of right. But man, in a pinch, these can save you from being stranded waiting for a tow atop a mountain or the annoyance of working a shitty car jack to mount some shitty spare donut. The bag-o’-goo sloshed inside the tire, made its way to the puncture, and sealed just enough to hold air pressure for the following evening and morning until I could limp it to an America’s Tire and the press fleet HQ in Torrance, totaling well over 100 miles on the still-impaled tread block. Tire sealant works. It’s not the best nor the most permanent. But it works.

It spared me a weekend of headaches and can work for you, too. Yes, this is propaganda. Here are some preemptive solutions to any future tire woes you may or may not have, followed by the facts on what’s the deal with tire sealant.

Tire sealant kits for sale

Fix-a-Flat Tire Sealant 2-Pack

What’s better than one can of Fix-a-Flat? Here’s a perfect pick for a multi-car garage or if you’re just unlucky enough to keep having this problem. This two-pack of aerosol cans can come in larger quantities or be changed to a six-pack if you’d like.

STP Tire Fix Sealant and Inflator

Presenting yet another gift from a household name in car-care goodies. STP, also known for its filters, fuel additives, and oil treatments, delivers a quick and easy way to have some peace of mind on the road. This 16-ounce aerosol touts its ability to create a proper seal for punctures up to a quarter-inch wide for up to three days.

Slime 2-In-1 Tire & Tube Premium Sealant 1-Gallon Jug

Now, here’s a fun one for owners of off-highway toys or trailers. Or maybe you’re just especially unlucky, and the tire gods hate you. Either way, this one-gallon unit is great for tending to tire impalements for non-car applications like motorcycles, ATVs, or trailers. Because yes, even the tow rig needs a hand from time to time. Keep an air compressor handy, however, as there’s no method of inflating the tires with what’s essentially a repurposed Fast Orange jug. 

FAQS

Q. Is tire sealant a permanent fix for a punctured or flat tire?

  • No. Absolutely not. So don’t even think about filling your tire with that sticky slop and calling it a day for the next 10,000 miles. If anything, tire sealant kits are the least “permanent” and most volatile method for fixing a tire. Like my situation, it’s best in a pinch, and even I pushed it much farther than the generally recommended maximum of three days or 100 miles. After use, it’s best practice to hurry to a tire shop for repair or replacement. So don’t be me and push your luck.

Q. Is tire sealant and a tire repair kit the same thing?

  • Kind of. Technically, tire sealant is a type of tire repair kit. Tire repair kits can generally be anything from a patch kit or plug to that gooey stuff in a can that auto stores and automakers love so much. But no, a tire repair kit is not exclusively a tire sealant kit, but a tire sealant kit is definitely one of many forms of tire repair kits. 

Q. What are the disadvantages of tire sealant kits?

  • A big reason for tire sealant’s lack of permanence is that the formula can dry out and harden over time, reducing its ability to maintain its seal over the puncture. It’s also easy to use improperly. Additionally, failure to properly distribute the sealant evenly around the tire could possibly result in a weight imbalance that causes slight wheel vibration. So use with care and follow those instructions, folks. 

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Deals

Keep this phone charger on your car keys to pack 8 functions into 1″ – on sale for up to 37% off

TL;DR: You may not need to carry a different cable for each of your devices when you can pack chargers, a flash drive, and more into a compact cube on your keychain. The WonderCube Pro is a smart multitool you can use as a phone charger, to store files, and more. You can get one for $44 (reg. $70) or two for $80 (reg. $118)

Whether it’s in your pocket or your center console, carrying a charging cable everywhere you go isn’t always convenient. The same goes for flashlights, flash drives, and other standard everyday carry items.

Put it all in one cube you can hang from your keys instead. The WonderCube Pro packs eight functions into a sturdy folding multitool for your phone, and you can get one for $44 or two for $80

Keep your phone cable on your keys 

The WonderCube Pro is a versatile tool to keep on hand or to keep as a backup in the car, and it can really come in clutch in a variety of scenarios. If your iPhone or Android battery is running low, just unfold the USB and micro USB connectors. Your WonderCube comes with adapters that let you plug in Lightning and USB-C devices. Use those to power up to transfer files. Android devices can even connect to an OTG USB drive

The WonderCube doesn’t have a built-in battery, but that doesn’t have to stop you from ditching the outlets if you need to recharge in a pinch. Grab a 9V battery and connect it to your WonderCube for up to three hours of talk time when you recharge. 

Dropped something beneath your seat? Use the built-in LED flashlight to find it. And if you want to watch an episode of your favorite show in your car during your lunch break, use the WonderCube’s micro-suction cups as a phone stand. 

There’s a lot this little cube can do. One Trendhunter reviewer put it simply: “INCREDIBLE… max functionality min payload.” 

Save on a compact multitool for your phone 

Pack all your essential iPhone or Android accessories into one square inch. It’s more than just a phone charger. For a limited time, you can get 

Prices subject to change.

For more deals, check out our Deals on Wheels page updated daily with car and car accessory deals.

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