Carrying a heavy load? Check out the rules below and the best straps for you.

turnbuckle-g0e1632725_1920.jpg

The best ratchet straps

Disklok-Diamond-Edition.jpg

Disklok Diamond Edition steering wheel lock unveiled

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The best garage security products to keep your car safe

The best aftermarket daytime running lights

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What you need to know about aftermarket daytime running lights

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The best electric scooters to get you from A to B

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CAR investigates home breathalysers

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The best budget electric scooters UK

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The best smart tyre safety monitor

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The best first aid kits to keep in the car

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The best wheel clamps

Car Maintenance

Car Care

Vans

Storage and Racks

Car Accessories

Technology

Gifts

Travel

Commuters

Security

Safety

e-Scooters

e-Bikes

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The best car shampoo tested by CAR 2024

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The best steering wheel locks 2024

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The best car roof bags 2024

You may be forgiven for thinking that finding the best car gifts for a loved one is an impossibly difficult process. You know that they like cars, but you just don't know what to get. The car world is varied and full of different subcultures, so the gift ideas vary. You can find anything from :a[tasty BMW gifts]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-accessories/gifts/best-bmw-gifts/' } to branded umbrellas.

For younger petrolheads, it can be even more difficult. They might have all the Hot Wheels toys and racing games at their disposal, so where do you go from there? And it has to be something memorable. :a[Motoring related books]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-accessories/gifts/best-car-books/' } are a fine place to start as well, to sprinkle some inspiration.

Beyond car shampoo, finding car-related gifts is tricky because tastes vary. What we've done here is supply a succinct guide of gift suggestions for petrolheads of all ages. It extends from :a[car gifts for young petrolheads]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-accessories/gifts/best-young-petrolheads-gifts/' } to adults as well.

**Editor's pick:** Le Mans 100: a Century at the World's Greatest Motor Race - :a[Buy from Amazon.]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Mans-100-Century-Greatest-Endurance/dp/0760376174/?tag=qcararticle03-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
**Best gift for a very young petrolhead:** Green Toys Car Carrier - :a[Buy from Amazon.]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Green-Toys-Double-Decker-Carrier-Detachable/dp/B06WLLMXF8/?tag=qcararticle03-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
**Best Porsche gift:** Norev 1:43 Porsche 911S - :a[Buy from Amazon.]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Norev-NV750038-1969-Black-Porsche-Collectable/dp/B09S6V96QM/?tag=qcararticle03-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

We've searched the internet far and wide and even taken some of our top picks from our other gift guide articles. This is a compilation of some amazing car gifts that you'll either be tempted by or could generate ideas for others.

## How do you get ideas for the best car gifts for someone?

It's probably best to observe their interests and habits. It's okay to say they're into cars, but have you observed what kind of car(s) they own and had in the past? Which are the ones they talk about most? If they dearly miss an old Golf GTI, then :a[a good VW gift]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-accessories/gifts/best-vw-gifts/' } will probably suit them.

If they're raving about the quality of engineering, then :a[a Mercedes gift]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-accessories/gifts/best-mercedes-gifts/' } will be finely suited. But everyone is different, and we can never tell you through a lens what somebody wants. But please do remember that on the special occasion, it's the thought process that matters!

## What's the best car gift you've ever received?

One of us in the office received tickets to the Goodwood Festival of Speed after finishing his GCSEs many years ago. That was special. Almost as special as :a[a driving experience]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-accessories/gifts/top-driving-experiences/' }, you could also gift someone.

**_:a[Ryan Gilmore]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/author/ryan-gilmore/' } is the Deputy Autos and Tools Editor for CAR, specialising in car cleaning and hand tools. With an MA in Automotive Journalism, when he's not testing buckets he can be found looking at old Porsches._**

### For verdicts, scoops, news and analysis from the team, delivered direct to your inbox, subscribe to the :a[CAR newsletter]{href='https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-newsletter/' }. {#h-for-verdicts-scoops-news-and-analysis-from-the-team-delivered-direct-to-your-inbox-subscribe-to-the-car-newsletter}

### You can enjoy CAR in its traditional :a[print format]{href='https://www.greatmagazines.co.uk/car-magazine' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer'}, or one of the swelling number of :a[digital editions]{href='https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-news/magazine/digital-preview-of-the-new-issue-of-car-magazine/' }, optimised for Apple iPhones, Android devices, iPads, tablets and desktop computers. {#h-you-can-enjoy-car-in-its-traditional-print-format-or-one-of-the-swelling-number-of-digital-editions-optimised-for-apple-iphones-android-devices-ipads-tablets-and-desktop-computers}

The best car gifts

The cold season is hard work for a car. Not only do parts such as :a[batteries need extra care]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-maintenance/car-care/best-smart-battery-charger/' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer'}, but slush, mud and ice are all waiting to clog up your windscreen.

That's why we all use screenwash. The challenge lies in using one that clears a windscreen without smearing any residual mud or insects across it. Wonder no more and see CAR's recommended screenwash products below.

Having :a[windscreen wipers]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-maintenance/car-care/windscreen-wiper-guide/' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener'} in sound condition is important too.

## Concentrated or ready mixed? {#h-concentrated-or-ready-mixed}

There isn't much difference between the performance of each option. Both will do exactly the same job. The difference is that a concentrated screenwash will require you to add water to dilute it and a ready-mixed one will not.

This means that a concentrated one is better value but isn't the best for topping up on the go unless you have a reliable water supply. On the other hand, ready-mixed screenwash take up more space. It really comes down to preference but we suggest going for concentrated.

## What to look for in a good screenwash {#h-what-to-look-for-in-a-good-screenwash}

When choosing a screenwash, your top priority should be temperature. In the winter months, you'll be needing a screenwash that can cope with the colder temperatures. Some can work at -20 degrees if you live somewhere where it gets really cold.

If possible, find a screenwash that contains Bitrex. This additive is the most bitter tasting thing imaginable and will make anything unpalatable and almost impossible to swallow should a child or animal try and drink some.

Regarding scent, there is no difference in cleaning ability between a citrus-scented screenwash or a berry one. The only difference will be to your nose and the colour of the fluid.

## The best screenwash {#h-the-best-screenwash}

**Pros:**  
Good value  
Concentrated  
Biodegradable

**Cons:**  
Totally Essential Screenwash is even more concentrated

**Pros:**  
Biodegradable  
Contains rain repellent  
Five-litre volume also available

**Cons:**  
A bit more expensive than Autoglym Ultimate Screenwash. but goes further

**Pros:**  
Simple to mix  
Biodegradable  
Small packaging

**Cons:**  
Only choice is 4.5 litres of mix at a time

**Pros:**  
Great value  
Big five-litre bottle

## Useful accessories: {#h-useful-accessories}

### For verdicts, scoops, news and analysis from the team, delivered direct to your inbox, subscribe to the :a[CAR newsletter]{href='https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-newsletter/' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer'}. {#h-for-verdicts-scoops-news-and-analysis-from-the-team-delivered-direct-to-your-inbox-subscribe-to-the-car-newsletter}

### You can enjoy CAR in its traditional :a[print format]{href='https://www.greatmagazines.co.uk/car-magazine' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer'}, or one of the swelling number of :a[digital editions,]{href='https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-news/magazine/digital-preview-of-the-new-issue-of-car-magazine/' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer'} optimised for Apple iPhones, Android devices, iPads, tablets and desktop computers. {#h-you-can-enjoy-car-in-its-traditional-print-format-or-one-of-the-swelling-number-of-digital-editions-optimised-for-apple-iphones-android-devices-ipads-tablets-and-desktop-computers}

The best screenwash: no smear here

Many corded appliances have fallen out of favour with a lot of people. In this wireless world perhaps cords just feel unacceptably old fashioned just like estate cars in this jacked up world of SUVs.

Gtech’s Multi MK2 K9 is one of many vacuum cleaners to capitalise on the desire for cordless appliances. And given that one of its main areas of expertise is car cleaning, we figured it was ripe for a CAR test.

We’re primarily focused on the car cleaning abilities of this vacuum, and we tested it on a grubby car interior to find out how well it performs, what the run time really is, what the ergonomics are like, and how well the Gtech is made.


<p>1. <a href="#design">Design</a></p> <p>2. <a href="#performance">Performance</a></p> <p>3. <a href="#value">Value</a></p> <p>4. <a href="#verdict">Verdict</a></p>


Vacuum cleaners are one of the appliances subject to heavy sci-fi styling and the Gtech is no exception, though in a subtler way than some. With its futuristic yet restrained grey body with touches of neon green and surprisingly high price, the Gtech ought to be an official accessory for the :a[Peugeot 508 Sport Engineered]{href='https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-reviews/peugeot/508-sport-engineered/' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer'}. In terms of size, it’s about the same as a stick vacuum cleaner without a floor tool attached.

Price is not something to get hung up on. Products that ask for a higher price in return for high quality and great functionality are well worth it. What we want to find out here is if you get the dividends you expect with the Gtech.

This K9 version is £20 more than the standard Multi MK2. The difference is that this is a hardened, tougher model with certain bits of plastic replaced with aluminium to deal with pet mess. But everything else is the same as the regular Multi MK2. The Multi MK2 K9 comes with an excellent range of attachments: a 0.4-litre bin with a filter (spare included) and scent cartridge (extras included); and a 2200mAh lithium-ion battery.

In a strange twist of fate, the multi MK2 K9 shares some characteristics with the aforementioned 508 PSE. The Gtech is a reasonably effective vacuum in the same way the 508 PSE is a reasonably effective sports saloon. However, where the Peugeot is a bit of a hippo, the Gtech is nice and light. For the duration of its roughly 20-minute battery life, the Gtech is easy to grasp. It’s also nicely put together. Compared to the lightweight stick-shaped handheld vacuums, the Gtech feels solid and dependable.

Compared to other lightweight handheld vacuums, the Gtech is quite powerful, the 0.4-litre bin is also much larger than what you'll typically find on competitors, and it can deal with more stubborn dirt or hair embedded in upholstery or carpet. But the Gtech's restricted battery life means it can’t deal with much of it. You can complete a full car vacuum with the Gtech but it’s a light one. The Gtech is a vacuum cleaner for naturally tidy people. But if you’re a catalyst for in-car storms, then the mess you leave is beyond the ability of the Gtech purely due to a lack of stamina.

The range of attachments that come as standard is much better than those of competitors. What normally comes as standard is a crevice tool and a brush of some kind. With the Gtech you get those, but another brush on an extended tube and the power head attachment. With the crevice tool attached you get about 20 centimetres of reach, which was enough to reach down beside seats; the longer brush gave access to the far reaches of the dashboard; and the power head attachment was great for seats and carpets.

The only area where vacuuming was tricky was the footwells. The power head attachment could cover most of it but wasn’t able to run right up to the edges because the body of the vacuum would encounter a seat or door sill. Then tackling the edges of the footwell with the crevice tool would take ages because it’s a small nozzle.

There was certainly more than one occasion during testing where we longed for a more powerful corded vacuum.

We also tried the optional Car Accessory Kit. It consists of a longer, flexible crevice tool, a softer brush, and an attachment for upholstery. However, we couldn’t find its worth. With the longer crevice tool we noticed suction power dropped off a bit and the standard brushes were already fine for anything except a delicate screen. Similarly, the power head attachment was more useful for upholstery because it was bigger. And then there’s the question of cost. The Car Accessory Kit is £50 and that’s five times more than it should be.

The question of value is certainly an interesting one. Something like the Dyson Micro, which has a similar weight and run time, is almost double the price of the Gtech. It comes with a floor tool for around the house use and is more powerful but is nevertheless almost twice the price. So the Gtech stands up well there.

The Gtech is also superior to the lightweight cordless vacuums, :a[such as the Shark and Eufy models featured in our group test]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-maintenance/car-care/car-vacuum-comparison-test/' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer'}. Though heavier, the Gtech is more powerful, has a longer run time, and an all-round better piece of equipment.

But if one looks at corded options, such as home-use wet/dry models, the Gtech is outclassed in terms of power and robustness. Not only that, but models like the tried and tested :a[Draper Wet/Dy Vacuum]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Draper-90107-1250W-Vacuum-Cleaner/dp/B083G45ZFH?tag=qcararticle306-21' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer'} and :a[Karcher WD 2 Plus]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/K%C3%A4rcher-Vacuum-Cleaner-blowing-function/dp/B09NMKVGNT?tag=qcararticle306-21' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer'} are less than half the price of the Gtech. And that makes you think.

If a small handheld vacuum is absolutely what you want, then the Gtech Multi MK2 K9 is the one you should go for. It’s better in every respect than the sub-one kilogram models and less expensive than the models with floor tools.

But it’s not our pick for car cleaning. You would be much better served by a domestic wet/dry vacuum such as the Draper and Karcher models we mentioned. Their powerful suction and robust design allow you to give your car interior a deep clean without worrying about run time or damaging the vacuum.

:a[The best fabric sprays to freshen up your car’s interior]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-maintenance/car-care/best-car-fabric-spray/' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer'}

:a[The best biodegradable and waterless car cleaning products]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-maintenance/car-care/best-eco-car-cleaning-products/' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer'}

:a[The best car pressure washers]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-maintenance/car-care/best-car-pressure-washers/' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer'}

### For verdicts, scoops, news and analysis from the team, delivered direct to your inbox, subscribe to the :a[CAR newsletter]{href='https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-newsletter/' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer'}.

### You can enjoy CAR in its traditional :a[print format,]{href='https://www.greatmagazines.co.uk/car-magazine' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer'} or one of the swelling number of :a[digital editions]{href='https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-news/magazine/digital-preview-of-the-new-issue-of-car-magazine/' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer'}, optimised for Apple iPhones, Android devices, iPads, tablets and desktop computers.

Gtech Multi MK2 K9 in the boot of a BMW 5 Series

Gtech Multi MK2 K9 review: a standout handheld vacuum

The usefulness of car-orientated magnetic phone holders can't really be questioned given we live in such a high-tech world nowadays. You'll most likely have Google Maps on standby, providing you with live updates on traffic jams, or you might want to have a screen displaying :a[dashcam info]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-accessories/technology/best-dash-cams/' } if you have the compatible app.

Regardless of what your phone will be displaying, whether :a[its radar detector]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-accessories/technology/best-radar-detector/' } info or otherwise, while on the move, a MagSafe or magnetic phone holder will be your best friend in keeping your smartphone in place while remaining distraction-free. Some of these devices have the ability to charge your device, which means extra bonus points as you don't have to worry about a low battery once you reach your destination.

These phone mounts can be fitted in a number of different ways. You can clip them into the air vent, for instance, or stick them on top of the dashboard. If, however, you don't wish to mark the trim on that panel, you can opt to place them on the windscreen if the attachments allow them to - almost like a budget dashcam, but simpler. With windscreen mounting, you do ideally want a long enough arm that won't lean into the slope of the windscreen itself - therefore keeping your phone straight. A Saab 99/900 will happily accommodate this with its near-vertical front windscreen, but a lot of modern cars sadly don't, so you have to check what your situation is before buying.

## The best magnetic phone mounts tested 2025 at a glance:

There are a lot of different phone holders in both standard, MagSafe or other magnetic forms on the market. So, to help make your decision easier, we've managed to get our hands on a few of them. Below, you'll find individual reviews on what we thought of the devices and the specifications, as well as a few other recommended models which we believe might be a good fit for a car enthusiast's motoring life.

Each of the phone mounts we got our hands on was treated to its own individual assessment to find out how well it suits a typical driving trip. With the units that required compatible phone cases, we made sure those were provided by the manufacturers to ensure a fair test and to replicate what a buyer would need to get the most out of them.

We tested each phone mount in a 2018 Volvo V60. We assessed each one based on usability, strength, quality, and how well they coped over rough roads/uneven surfaces. We also assessed each one of their phone charging capabilities, if they have it, as well as how neatly they fit into the vents and areas of the vehicle.

## What we look for in MagSafe and other phone mounts

The most essential part of any phone mount is **stability**. When you're covering long distances, which may involve driving over rough or uneven road surfaces, it's nice to know your phone will stay in place no matter what kind of road trip you go on.

Most British roads are littered with potholes. So really, getting off the motorways provides a great opportunity to put the strength of these phone mounts to the ultimate test.

Next up is **build quality**. This loosely ties in with stability as the better built it is, the more likely it will stay in its place, holding your phone securely. If you go on a lot of driving trips across to Italy, Germany, or anywhere else with great driving roads, **charging capability** will also be important if you opt for a device that can recharge your smartphone on the move.

**Value for money** is also key. Rather than suggesting that a cheaper product is more favourable than a more premium example, what we want to judge is whether that product is worth the asking price based on the qualities outlined above.

## The best magnetic phone holders for cars tested 2025 {#h-the-best-magnetic-phone-holders-for-cars}

## FAQs and other things to consider with MagSafe and other phone mounts

MagSafe is an Apple-specific technology. It's a magnetic design built within iPhones that's designed to fit onto accessories while providing wireless charging to your devices, such as phone mounts and other things.

However, given that compatible phone cases are available to ensure that Android phones can stick onto MagSafe phone mounts, it's not entirely limited to Apple.

The simple answer is yes. MagSafe phone holders are designed to carry both iPhones and other phones with MagSafe-compatible cases. When secured in place, they will cope perfectly with bumps in the road and keep your phone secured for prolonged periods of time.

In our experience, your best bet will be the Belkin BoostCharge Pro, closely followed by the Mous options. These are fabulous phone mounts if you're looking for a magnetic/MagSafe option that'll happily charge your device at a decent rate while on the move. It largely depends on preferences, and for road trips, subtlety may be an important aspect to some buyers.

So if, for example, you're on a trip to the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa and you're driving long hours and need your device charged, any of these will be your best friend on such a pilgrimage.

In our experience, MagSafe phone cases are excellent. Not only does it mean that a phone can stick firmly to the phone mount in question, but the Mous ones that we were provided with were very durable-feeling and happened to be quite stylish as a bonus.

In short, yes, they do. When it comes to MagSafe phone mount chargers, you can get MagSafe-compatible phone cases if you're using an Android device.

From what we found during testing, when paired with the Mous MagSafe compatible phone mounts, the charging speed was decent. On the road, we experienced a good charging speed between roughly 30-80%, so it's safe to say if you're on the way down to Goodwood Festival of Speed, your phone battery will be looked after - and you have a great mount for keeping an eye on the sat nav.

### You can enjoy CAR in its traditional :a[print format]{href='https://www.greatmagazines.co.uk/car-magazine' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer'}, or one of the swelling number of :a[digital editions]{href='https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-news/magazine/digital-preview-of-the-new-issue-of-car-magazine/' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer'}, optimised for Apple iPhones, Android devices, iPads, tablets and desktop computers. {#h-you-can-enjoy-car-in-its-traditional-print-format-or-one-of-the-swelling-number-of-digital-editions-optimised-for-apple-iphones-android-devices-ipads-tablets-and-desktop-computers}

Mous magnetic phone mount with compatible case

The best MagSafe and magnetic phone holders for road trips tested by CAR 2025

Perhaps understandably, finding the best travel torches to keep in your car is quite low on your priority list. You should already be equipped with the essentials as part of :a[your winter driving kit,]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-accessories/travel/best-winter-driving-kit/' } such as a tyre inflator, depth gauge, or even some spare engine oil in case you're running low. But in the event of a breakdown or when you're at home having to work on your own car, a torch is undeniably useful to have.

If you've ever had the displeasure of navigating several depths of hell in metal and wiring to access a bolt, you'll understand why a torch is needed. Little crevices and hidey holes of cars are simply blocked out by light. It doesn't help that during the winter months, those jobs become more difficult.

While a decent torch is an essential item, as well as :a[some de-icer,]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-maintenance/car-care/best-de-icer/' } the good news is that you don't have to spend much these days. However, in addition to value, there are some important factors you need to consider, from the amount of lumens to its compactness.

Some cars even come with in-built torches and :a[even ice scrapers]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-maintenance/car-care/ice-scraper/' } from the factory or dealer. However, the likelihood of miraculously finding one in your car is quite low, so the best bet is to really settle with a travel torch from a trusted manufacturer.

## The best torches 2025 {#h-the-best-travel-torches}

While not entirely common, we reckon you should. They can be vital for breakdown emergencies when you need to illuminate an issue with your vehicle or simply see what you're doing.

You may be wondering "well, my phone has a torch, so why invest in a physical one?" And while phone torches are great nowadays, you will also need to use your phone to call up emergency and/or breakdown services. So, having enough charge is key to keeping yourself safe when things go a bit wrong.

Yes, some of them are waterproof. The key thing to look out for is the waterproof rating that the torch comes with. These are labelled with either an IP or IXP rating followed by a number; these numbers signify exactly how waterproof they are.

An IP68 rating for example, means that torch can be submerged in water by up to two-metres and still work. Others can merely survive splashes and lower depths of water, which will be reflected in the ratings given such as IXP4, IP65 and so on.

Yes, lots of them do include torches. Breakdown kits from the AA and Ring Automotive include little torches as part of their kits. However, you must bear in mind that these little torches are quite cheap and aren't that durable.

This is largely why we've created a comprehensive guide on torches to keep in your vehicle. You simply never know how long you'll need a flashlight for, should you find yourself in an emergency. Our recommended torches are built to last a long time between charges and have a load of capabilities attached.

### Other things to look for in a travel torch {#h-what-to-look-for-in-a-travel-torch}

By its very nature, a torch needs to be a light source. This is a very simple concept that cannot be argued with. But how many lumens is best? It depends on what you need (or want). Torches 500 lumens and above are fantastic outdoors and often feature a focused beam to see long distances, which is good for searching. But it can be overkill for some who just want something that will allow them to check something simple. These include illuminating a wheel, checking the fitting :a[of a windscreen cover,]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-maintenance/car-care/best-windscreen-covers/' } or hooking up jumper cables.

An IP (ingress protection) rating determines how well protected an electrical device is from substances such as dust and water (for a detailed explanation of IP ratings, click here). For a torch you plan you use outdoors, a rating of IPX4 is a minimum starting point. IPX4 will cope with drizzle, light moisture, or a :a[dash of screen wash]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-maintenance/car-care/best-screenwash/' } if you accidently spray a bit on your torch. For the best protection, IP67 or IP68 is needed.

The next thing to consider is build quality. IP ratings are an indicator of build quality, but not totally. A cheap torch may be IP67 and with 2000 lumens but for how long? Longevity is just as important as performance. The last thing you want is pulling a dead torch out of the glovebox. Established industry specialists such as Ledlenser and NEBO produce some excellent torches at a reasonably good price. Also, a torch with a rechargeable battery is more convenient for you and better for the environment. It's preferable to those without. Similarly :a[to car dehumidifiers,]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-maintenance/car-care/best-car-dehumidifier/' } size is important too. These days you don't need one of those enormous handheld units that use four C or D batteries. There are some very powerful units the size of a glue stick that fits in your glovebox without issue.

**_:a[Aaron Hussain]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/author/aaron-hussain/' } is a commercial content writer at Bauer Media writing for Parkers and CAR. He is obsessed with classic cars and anything with a fascinating story to tell._**

### For verdicts, scoops, news and analysis from the team , delivered direct to your inbox, subscribe to the :a[CAR newsletter]{href='https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-newsletter/' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer'}. {#h-for-verdicts-scoops-news-and-analysis-from-the-team-delivered-direct-to-your-inbox-subscribe-to-the-car-newsletter}

The best torches to keep in the car 2025

Sometimes, the car boot just won’t do, especially if you’re going on a long-haul family holiday, which is just the kind of situation that calls for a roof box. After you’ve loaded everything from the suitcases to the snacks, you might find you need even more space than the luggage compartment, and that’s before you remember to load up :a[the bike rack]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-accessories/travel/best-roof-bike-rack/' }.

It’s even worse for seven-seat vehicles since they’re designed to carry seven passengers (including the driver) but not seven passengers worth of luggage. You might think the solution is to place your bags on the passenger seats, but there are more comfortable solutions that ensure you don’t forget anything important. Roof bags are an option, but if you’re looking for something a little more solid, the roof box is the way to go.

A roof box is a simple but effective way of adding more storage to your car. It can unlock as much as 580 litres of storage (nearly double the boot space offered by the recently demised Ford Fiesta). For the really practical and adventurous, you can even opt for :a[car roof tents]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-accessories/travel/best-car-rooftop-tent/' } for your travels.

## The best roof boxes tested 2025 at a glance:

If you’re in the market for a roof box, then there are a few things to consider, like dimensions, capacity, aerodynamics, and, of course, budget. We’ve rounded up some of the best roof boxes on sale for every budget. To up the ante, we've also teamed up with Auto Zeitung to share findings of :a[its roof box mega test,]{href='https://www.autozeitung.de/dachbox-195124.html' } which grouped together eight of such items.

Our friends at Auto Zeitung had realistic criteria to base their findings on. They attached each roof box to a Volkswagen Tiguan 1.5 eTSI with the roof rails and support rods from Volkswagen accessories range.

The basic curb weight of the car is 1,637kg with a full tank, which doesn't account for the driver and 140kg of luggage in the car. The maximum roof load on the Tiguan is 75kg, which was taken into account when our testers loaded up the different roof boxes. They used sleeping bags, pillows, skis, and even weights to up the ante.

**Functionality**, which simultaneously ties in with practicality, is our main factor. We're always curious to see how much stuff a roof box can swallow up, ready for your next holiday.

Secondly, **build quality** is high on our priority list - if straps are fiddly or certain components feel low-rent, points will be deducted. This, in turn, ties in with **security** since keeping your possessions safe is important.

It should be noted that while Auto Zeitung tested a total of eight roof boxes, not all of them are readily available in the UK market. We have, therefore, carried as much information across as we can on products that are available, and this page will be updated if/when there are any changes. We have therefore labelled if a roof box was tested by our German colleagues.

We have also included a selection of roof boxes that were chosen by CAR, but not put through a thorough test. We have labelled these as so, and these units are choices based off our best research and knowledge.

## The best roof boxes tested 2025 {#h-the-best-roof-boxes}

## How to find the correct roof racks for your vehicle {#h-how-to-find-the-correct-roof-racks-for-your-vehicle}

## FAQs and things to remember with roof boxes {#h-things-to-remember-with-roof-boxes}

Fuel economy can be impacted by having a bulky roof box, which affects the aerodynamics of your car. And with a :a[good bike rack attached,]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-accessories/travel/car-bike-rack-comparison/' } those aerodynamics can be affected further. At the end of the day, you can't beat the laws of physics, and because your car will experience more drag, you'll use more fuel.

### How much MPG do I lose by carrying a roof box?

Depending on the weight and size, you could lose anywhere between 5 and 10% of your usual MPG figures. Thule can dial that back because the Alpine versions of their roof boxes are designed with aerodynamics in mind. The case being a skiing holiday for example, which involves a lot of French motorway miles.

Yes, they are generally very watertight. Our friends at Auto Zeitung even tested the waterproofness of the tested roof boxes using a jet hose aimed right at the items.

Generally speaking, they all coped well, but our testers found that some were prone to dripping quite badly once you come to open them up. This can either dampen the inner linings or your items, so we'd advise being careful when you go to access your stuff.

Of course. Roof boxes can generate a lot of it at speed, and aerodynamics come into play again. If your roof box is slender, it will be able to glide through the air without much resistance. Perhaps the most important point is that if your car doesn't have a set of roof racks, you won't be able to carry one at all. There are plenty of cars which have them from the factory, but aftermarket roof racks are plentiful on the market.

There's quite a lot of situations when you might need a roof box for extra storage. For example, in a fully-loaded seven-seater vehicle with all the seats occupied, they will serve as a great solution for storage.

Of course, when travelling across continental Europe for the skiing season, roof boxes are great places to store skis and other snow sports equipment. A lot of the time, however, you might not need one. It's, therefore, purely dependent on how much stuff you carry around to decide if you need one.

_**:a[Aaron Hussain]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/author/aaron-hussain/' } is a commercial content writer at Bauer Media writing for Parkers and CAR. He is obsessed with classic cars and anything with a fascinating story to tell.**_

### For verdicts, scoops, news and analysis from the team, delivered direct to your inbox, subscribe to the :a[CAR newsletter]{href='https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-newsletter/' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener'}. {#h-for-verdicts-scoops-news-and-analysis-from-the-team-delivered-direct-to-your-inbox-subscribe-to-the-nbsp-car-newsletter}

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The best roof boxes for cars tested 2025

Vehicle thefts can be more common than you think, so if you're thinking about your car's security then you should consider installing an outdoor security camera. There are several measures you can take to ensure your car is safe, like using a :a[steering wheel lock]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/commuters/security/best-steering-wheel-locks/' }, but some measures are useful before and after a crime.

Security cameras not only provide crucial evidence which can help get your car back, they can also act as a deterrent, as wilful thieves would be reluctant to be seen. Another great example of a preventative measure is a :a[faraday pouch]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-accessories/technology/rfid-key-pouches/' } for your keys, but that wouldn't be useless if the thieves are successful in stealing your car. Together with a capable :a[magnetic car tracker]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-accessories/technology/best-magnetic-car-trackers/' }, the evidence provided from a security camera can go a long way to bringing you some justice. For more information about keeping your car secure you can check out our :a[garage security guide]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/commuters/security/best-garage-security/' }.

## The best outdoor security cameras at a glance

Understanding security cameras, as with any type of technology, can be a little overwhelming, but just like a good :a[dash cam]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-accessories/technology/best-dash-cams/' } they come with some useful features, like motion detection and floodlights. We've trawled through the best outdoor security cameras the industry has to offer, and here are our recommendations:

## Frequently asked questions about outdoor security cameras

### What should I consider when buying an outdoor security camera?

As well as the basic things like cost and how it can be positioned on your home, there are quite a few things.

Chief among which is installation: wireless outdoor camera only require a 5 minute installation and pairing process with your Wifi-connected devices. Possibly an easier process than setting up a :a[Scalextric circuit.]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-accessories/gifts/best-scalextric-sets/' } However, wired ones that run through the mains will probably require the professional installation of a qualified electrician.

### Why have I got to pay a subscription to save my own clips?

This is usually the case with most smart outdoor security camera systems. After washing your car :a[using shampoo]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-maintenance/car-care/best-car-shampoo/' }, you still need to pay a monthly water bill. It's the same principle here, although you have to scroll deep before finding the small print.

Ring for example, gives you the option to pay £3.49 a device per month or £8 a month per household. The latter gives you the option of adding as many devices as you like.

Then again, if those small payments mean the car is protected, then surely it's worth considering. You probably love and cherish that car like your favourite teddy. And knowing that there's an extra layer of protection can ease your mind, so you can enjoy some :a[PC racing games]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-accessories/technology/best-sim-racing-game-pc/' } in your spare time.

Generally outdoor security cameras will record video at 1080p, but if you find one that offers better quality, like 2K, then that's great. Most outdoor cameras come with lights to make it easier to capture video in the dark, and some even have night vision. You can get a wireless camera or a wired one, but do be sure to make note of the battery life before you buy, or you can opt for a camera with a solar panel. Some big name brands like Ring or Blink will offer a subscription service so it's important to check if you actually need the functions in the subscription.

Ultimately, you should prioritise the features that you require and then look for a camera that contains those features. If you're in a well-lit environment then lights or night vision might not be required, but we recommend it anyway as you can never be too careful. Whatever keeps your car on the driveway and out of the hands of thieves is a good investment.

**_Aaron Hussain is a commercial content writer at Bauer Media writing for Parkers and CAR. He is obsessed with classic cars and anything with a fascinating story to tell._**

### For verdicts, scoops, news and analysis from the team, delivered direct to your inbox, subscribe to the :a[CAR newsletter]{href='https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-newsletter/' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener'}.

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The Best Outdoor Security Cameras

Black Friday deals aren't that far away, and every year there are huge bargains to be bagged in the :a[world of power tools]{href='https://products.carmagazine.co.uk/car-maintenance/car-care/best-power-tools/' } and Black Friday power tool deals. They are designed to simply make life a little easier when doing jobs to your car, from drills to grinders and much more.

November is usually the best time to grab a great power tool deal, largely because of both the run-up to Christmas, Black Friday of course, and the fact manufacturers would preferably like to clear their stock before the end of the year. This is so they can meet and exceed company targets and make a wad of cash as a result.

Nevertheless, loads of deals are to be had on power tools. With everything from angle grinders to power drills and even welding machines. There is loads of tasty stuff to be on the lookout for this coming November. All of this is probably quite timely since people tend to use the winter to tackle a list of jobs that need doing to their car. The idea being that once they're finished, the car is ready to be enjoyed by Spring.

We'll be keeping this page up to date with the best Black Friday power tool deals available this coming Black Friday to save you some serious levels of cash.

## The best Black Friday power tool deals

## When is it, and how can I get Black Friday power tool deals? {#h-when-is-it-and-how-can-i-get-black-friday-power-tool-deals}

Essentially, it's a huge annual sales event held in the USA the day after Thanksgiving. The best deals will run from Friday 24th November right through until Monday 27th.

You will have seen scenes of chaos in shops across the United States. But it's managed to reach across the rest of the globe and thankfully, it's mostly held online nowadays, so you needn't leave your home to grab a great bargain. It's also worth knowing that there are deals to be had across the whole month of November too.

We will be keeping this page up to date with the very best Black Friday power tool deals available across the internet. Guidance on how you can save yourself bags of cash on power tools will be held right here.

### For verdicts, scoops, news and analysis from the team, delivered direct to your inbox, subscribe to the :a[CAR newsletter]{href='https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-newsletter/' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener'}. {#h-for-verdicts-scoops-news-and-analysis-from-the-team-delivered-direct-to-your-inbox-subscribe-to-the-car-newsletter}

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