Car emergency gear
Jump starters, tire inflators, battery maintainers and winter kits. Research-led guides by the Curbside Picks editorial team.
Best Battery Maintainer for Winter Storage (2026): NOCO GENIUS vs Battery Tender
Storing a car, truck, motorcycle or mower for winter? Compare NOCO GENIUS1, GENIUS2, GENIUS5, GENIUS2D and Battery Tender maintainers by amps, battery types and warranty.
Updated 15 November 2026Best Jump Starter for Diesel Trucks (2026): Duramax, Cummins & Power Stroke
Which portable jump starter can actually start a 6.6L or 6.7L diesel? We compare NOCO, GOOLOO, Clore and OXILAM packs by their published diesel ratings.
Updated 15 November 2026Best Jump Starter with Air Compressor (2026): 2-in-1 Picks
One box for a dead battery and a low tire. We compare the GOOLOO A3 and JOLTEKON 4500A 2-in-1 jump starters, and explain when two separate tools are better.
Updated 15 November 2026Best Tire Inflator for Tesla Model Y & Model 3 (2026)
Teslas don't come with a spare tire, so a good inflator matters. Our pick of cordless and 12V inflators for the Model Y and Model 3, with how to find your correct PSI.
Updated 15 November 2026Car Stocking Stuffers Under $50 (2026): Practical Gifts for Drivers
Useful car gifts that were listed under $50 on Amazon.com when we checked, including a tire gauge, OBD2 code reader, battery maintainer, safety hammer, mounts and more.
Updated 15 November 2026AstroAI L7 vs GOOLOO GT160 vs Fanttik X8 Apex: Cordless Tire Inflators Compared
Three of Amazon's most popular cordless tire inflators compared on max PSI, battery, runtime and the makers' own speed claims, with which one suits your car.
Updated 15 November 2026NOCO GB40 vs GB70 vs GBX155: Which Size Do You Need?
A side-by-side of NOCO's three most popular Boost jump starters, comparing engine ratings, starts per charge, weight and charging, so you can pick the right size for your vehicle.
Updated 15 November 2026Winter Car Emergency Kit (2026): What to Keep in Your Trunk
A practical winter car emergency kit checklist covering jump power, tire air, traction, warmth and escape tools, with specific products and what each one is for.
Updated 15 November 2026