(NWautos staff)
Whether he's a sports fanatic or a road-tripper, a classic-car enthusiast or a neatnik, let your dad know you're glad he's in the driver's seat this Father's Day with an auto-related gift.
For the wandering soul
Give Dad the gift of daydreams with the "National Geographic Road Atlas: Adventure Edition." The spiral-bound atlas lies flat and is filled with easy-to-read maps of the 50 states, Canada and Mexico. It also includes scenic routes, historic sites and highlights of the top 100 adventure destinations as selected by the editors of National Geographic Adventure magazine. $20. Available at shop.nationalgeographic.com and major bookstores.
For the safety fanatic
Grant Dad a clear rear view with the Boyo VTL425 Ultra Slim Black Bar Type License Plate Camera. Unlike bulkier designs, this unit doesn't cover the license plate and delivers clear images day or night. $115. amazon.com
For the classic-car buff
Present Dad with tickets to the ninth annual Kirkland Concours d'Elegance, a car show that celebrates classic and vintage autos, motorcycles, boats and more. This year's event, scheduled for Sept. 11, has judged classes for iconic makes such as Aston Martin, Pierce-Arrow and Corvette. $25 per person for adults. kirklandconcours.com
For the style aficionado
Why give Dad just one car when you can give him dozens? The mini hardcover book "Cars: Freedom, Style, Sex, Power, Motion, Colour, Everything" by car columnist Stephen Bayley includes photos of his 86 favorite designs, from the 1908 Ford Model T to the 2003 BMW5. $20. amazon.com
For the neat freak
Help Dad make his ride sparkle (not to mention the RV, motorcycle, boat and house windows) with the CR Spotless De-Ionizing Spotless Water System. The filtration device eliminates minerals and enables a car to air-dry without leaving water spots on the finish. $370. costco.com
For the busy professional
Bring the car wash to Dad with a call to Dynamic Mobile Detailing. Dynamic will travel to Dad's home or business to get the job done -- including a hand wash, wax, spot cleaning, vacuum, rim detail and more. From $110. Call 206-200-9921 or go to dynamicmobiledetailing.com
For the road warrior
Keep beverages, sandwiches and snacks chilled and at the ready on camping trips, road trips and game days with the Koolatron 12 Volt Compact Cooler. Its narrow design allows it to fit between and behind his car, truck or van seats. $100. Available at The Home Depot and Sears.
For the sentimental driver
Design a custom keychain for Dad. Upload a family portrait, a photo of his beloved first car or homemade art to create a one-of-a-kind gift he can take anywhere. Make just one or a whole set for each of his important keys. Starting at $3 plus shipping. zazzle.com/custom/keychains
For the sports nut
Help Dad cruise to the next game or match in style. Deck out his car with his favorite local team's logo, whether it's a Seattle Storm 2010 champions license plate frame ($5, shop.stormbasketball.com); a Sounders car flag ($14, proshop.soundersfc.com); a Mariners seat cover ($30, shop.mlb.com); a Huskies tailgate hitch cover ($43, University Book Store); or a set of Seahawks Team ProMark MicroFlame graphics ($15, nflshop.com).
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