Best Automotive Heat Gun — Buyers Guide, Review and Comparison

The best automotive heat gun could be the most versatile tool in your motor vehicle armory. These machines can address a plethora of car projects, including film wrapping, light welding, paint stripping, and removing unwanted stickers. Typically, they feature a wide temperature range, extensive power cord, and numerous nozzles.
Our Top Pick
SEEKONE SDL2816
Including four additional nozzles, dial-controlled variable temperatures, and an overload protector — this automotive heat gun is equally suited to car wrapping as stripping paint. An ergonomically-designed handle prevents hand fatigue on those longer motor projects.
Features
  • Temperature range of 122-1202 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Twin fan speeds.
  • 1800 watts of power.
  • Additional nozzles.
Product Rating: 4.9/5

Top Automotive Heat Guns 2024

IMAGE PRODUCT DETAILS
SEEKONE SDL2816
  • Wattage: 1800 watts
  • Temperature: Variable: 122-1202 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Heat Control: Dial
  • Cord length: 5.25 feet

Features

  • Twin fan speed.
  • Includes four additional nozzles.
  • Overload protector.

Product Rating: 4.9/5

Check Price at Amazon SEEKONE SDL2816 Review SEEKONE SDL2816 Review
DeWalt D26950
  • Wattage: 1550 watts
  • Temperature: Variable: 120-1100 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Heat Control: Dial
  • Cord length: 10 feet

Features

  • Includes two nozzles.
  • Two-handed operation.
  • Incorporated kickstand for additional stability.

Product Rating: 4.7/5

Check Price at Amazon DeWalt D26950 Review DeWalt D26950 Review
Genesis GHG1500A
  • Wattage: 1550 watts
  • Temperature: 572 and 1000 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Heat Control: Switch
  • Cord length: 6.5 feet.

Features

  • Includes four nozzles.
  • Cool-down stand.
  • Textured handle.

Product Rating: 4.6/5

Check Price at Amazon Genesis GHG1500A Review Genesis GHG1500A Review
VViViD Vinyls
  • Wattage: 1200 watts
  • Temperature: Dual: 750 and 1000 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Heat Control: Switch
  • Cord length: 10 feet

Features

  • Dedicated automotive wrapping tool
  • Includes 3M applicator and felt strips
  • Ergonomically-designed handle

Product Rating: 4.5/5

Check Price at Amazon VViViD Vinyls Review VViViD Vinyls Review
Prulde N2190
  • Wattage: 1500 watts
  • Temperature: Dual: 800 and 1112 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Heat Control: Switch
  • Cord length: 6.5 feet

Features

  • Includes four nozzles
  • Budget friendly
  • Rapid heat-up feature

Product Rating: 4.0/5

Check Price at Amazon Prulde N2190 Review Prulde N2190 Review

Automotive Heat Guns Buying Guide

In reality, there are few purpose-built car heat guns on the market. Those that are made purely for automotive use tend to be useful for just one niche application, have a generator and industrial blower that’s the size of a refrigerator, and are purely for the motor manufacturer.

This places them outside the price range of home users, petrol heads, small garage owners, and vehicle restorers.

However, there are a few models of heat gun available that possess features making them ideal for motor vehicle work.

When choosing your perfect machine, consider:

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Temperature range.
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Method of heat adjustment.
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Durability.
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Price.
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Breadth of applications.
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Cable length.
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Additional accessories.

What Are Automotive Heat Guns Used For?

If you love your cars, you’ll probably already have a plethora of dedicated automotive tools — a socket set, impact wrench, jack, and chocks.

I’m right, yeah?

However, while these implements are invaluable for the motor enthusiast — they’re limited in versatility. Sure, you need that trolley jack to raise your car and get underneath the chassis — but what else can you do with it?

That’s why car heat guns are the automotive accessory you simply cannot do without.

As their name suggests, these machines deliver an intense stream of heat from a handheld unit. And, with a variety of nozzle accessories, can fulfil functions such as:

Paint Stripping
Whether you’re just tackling a replacement fender from the junkyard, or you want to attack your whole body shell — automotive heat guns make stripping paint effortless.

They avoid the use of chemicals, which can be hazardous to your health and may increase the risk of oxidation to your valuable metalwork.

Decal Application/Removal
Motor vehicle heat guns allow you to customize your car with decals and stickers — whether you’re advertising your business or just looking to add a little slice of personal character.

Additionally, should you purchase a pre-owned car which includes unwanted flashes — then the heat gun enables you to remove them without damaging the paintwork

Window Tinting
Using a heat gun to tint your windows allows you to achieve greater adherence and smooth out unwanted bubbles much easier than without.

And, just because you’re not a West-Coast gangsta rapper, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t darken your glass.

Adding window tint provides the benefits of:

  • Preventing fading of the vehicle’s interior.
  • Blocking UV rays that can cause skin damage.
  • Preventing glass shatter.
  • Security — no one can see your valuables.
  • You feel like Snoop Dogg.
Car Wrapping

Also known as vinyl wrapping — this process has gained huge momentum over recent years.

Many vehicle owners see the process of overlaying their car with an outer wrap as a more preferable alternative to painting, because it:

  • Is more cost effective.
  • Gives your vehicle a unique look.
  • Can be removed (with a heat gun!) if you become bored with it.
  • Has no effect on resale value (as it can be removed).
  • Is quicker to apply than a complete respray.
Heat Shrinking Cable Sleeves
If you’re a professional or enthusiastic amateur auto electrician — you know that covering cables improves tidiness and can prevent short circuits. Automotive heat guns enable you to rapidly coat wires in a protective sheath.
Desoldering and Welding
Heat guns save the need for a soldering gun — although you will require a concentrator nozzle to direct the heat. Furthermore, some models possess the temperature intensity to weld plastics and soft metals.

How to Choose the Best Auto Heat Gun

As there’s a vast array of models, brands, and designs of heat guns on the market — all possessing different features — picking out the ideal automotive hot air gun can be challenging.

Hence, here’s my handy breakdown of the characteristics you should consider before shelling out your hard-earned dollars:

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Temperature Range

For the largest spectrum of automotive applications, you need a broad range of temperatures. For a detailed guide on heat requirements for specific jobs — check out my How to Use a Heat Gun article.

However — generally speaking — decal removal, heat-shrinking cable sleeves, and window tinting need low to mid heat (250 degrees to 700 degrees Fahrenheit). While welding, car wrapping, and paint stipping require mid to high temperatures (700 to 1200 degrees).

Speed Adjustment Button Icon

Heat Control

Traditionally, there are three methods of adjusting temperature intensity on a heat gun — switches, dials, and pushbutton LCD control.

The latter gives the most precise control — although unless they have oversized buttons, they can be difficult to adjust with gloved or oily hands.

Cord Icon

Cable Length

As cars are large beasts, the chances are you’ll need to use an extension cable with your motor heat gun anyhow. Unless, that is, you’re happy to continually reposition your vehicle. However, the longer your power cord, the smaller the extension needs to be.
spraying-tips

Nozzles

Some automotive heat guns arrive complete with additional nozzles — allowing you to deliver the ideal heat distribution on your work.

Some of the most useful nozzles for the car enthusiast are:

  • Reducers — concentrating the heat into a small area, practical for desoldering.
  • Glass protectors.
  • Fantail — disperses heat over a wide area, ideal for wrapping.

Best Automotive Heat Gun — The Top Five

You could spend your time seeking out heat guns suitable for automotive use from the hundreds of products on the market. However, I’m sure you’d rather be tinkering with your carburettor or adding a beefy exhaust instead.

Hence, to allow you to get back to your wheels as soon as possible, I’ve sourced the best heat guns for you. Based on industry opinion, customer feedback, and my own knowledge — these are the ultimate automotive hot air machines available.

SEEKONE SDL2816

Best for Versatility

Our Rating: 4.9
In my opinion, the optimum heat gun for the automotive nut.

This powerful 1800-watt machine features a temperature range of 122-1202 degrees Fahrenheit — suitable for virtually all car applications, from shrinking cable wraps through to stripping bodywork paint.

Adjusting the heat level is straightforward and ideal for garage use. The rear of the unit incorporates the temperature control dial — simply rotate clockwise to boost heat output or anticlockwise to reduce. Not only is this rotary adjuster substantial, but it also features a textured relief, which suggests that — even when wearing work gloves or with oily hands — you can still change the temperature output.

Two fan speeds allow you to control the heat delivery intensity — essential for wrapping work. Plus, an in-built overload protector ensures that the crucial heating coil is shielded from power surges — and adds to safe use.

I welcome the fact that this heat gun arrives complete with four interchangeable nozzles. These include the crucial fantail — for your vinyl work — and a reflector nozzle, for cable shrinking.

The manufacturer claims that the handle of this automotive hot air gun has been scientifically designed to increase comfort and reduce the likelihood of repetitive strain injury. Furthermore, it incorporates a buffer at the foot of the handle, to prevent slippage — even when perspiring.

If I was to make one criticism of this machine — it would be the cord length. At 5.25 feet, it’s shorter than the typical six-foot cord usually seen on power tools. However, as you will undoubtedly be using this unit with an extension cable anyway — this may not be a deal breaker for most motorheads

  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

Pros:

N
Includes four additional nozzles.
N
Variable temperature, from 122 to 1202 degrees Fahrenheit.
N
Substantial control dial.
N
Twin fan speeds.
N
Overload protector.
N
Ergonomic handle.

Cons:

N
Shorter cable than many of its competitors.

DeWalt D26950

Best for Large Projects

DeWalt D26950

Best for Large Projects

Our Rating: 4.5

Should you find yourself completing large or time-intensive automotive projects — this heat gun may appeal.

Unlike most of its competitors, this unit gives the option of two-handed control. This should help to relieve wrist and finger fatigue during heavy-duty work. Furthermore, boasting a category-leading 10-foot mains cable — in many cases, this should negate the use of an extension cord.

Additionally, this machine boasts a cord protector at the point where the cable enters the handle base. This prevents the crucial power lead from tearing away from the unit, should you overstretch. Thus, it adds longevity and safety to the gun.

You control the temperature via a rotary dial. Clearly marked, it should be easy to read if you’re wearing goggles or have less than perfect eyesight. Boasting a heat range of 120-1100 degrees Fahrenheit — this unit is equally suitable for window tinting and car wrapping.

This motor heat gun includes two additional nozzles. Admittedly, not as many as the SEEKONE model, but the vinyl wrap essential of a deflector is included.

A nice feature of this car heat gun is the integrated kickstand. This adds additional support should you wish to stand the unit on its end — for hands-free use. This may appeal to the auto-electrical enthusiast, who may need this versatility to heat shrink wire sheaths.

When you’ve finished your work for the day, you may welcome the hanging ring. This allows you to safely store the heat gun on a hook or pegboard, out of harm’s way.

  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

Pros:

N
Lengthy, 10-foot cable.
N
Includes two additional nozzles.
N
Kickstand for greater hands-free stability.
N
Two-handed operation.
N
Two fan speeds.

Cons:

N
Premium price for a premium product.
N
Louder than other car heat guns.

Genesis GHG1500A

Best for Accessories

Our Rating: 4.6

When working on your car with a hot air gun — it’s not just about the temperature of the heat you apply — but how it’s addressed. This machine, with its four included nozzles, gives you the versatility to apply the power with finesse.

Two differently-sized fantail ends are ideal for providing even heat distribution when vinyl wrapping or window tinting. A reflector nozzle allows you to heat in a circular fashion — essential for wire sheath shrinking. And finally, a concentrator cap-end delivers focused heat — crucial when soldering or desoldering auto-electrical components.

This unit incorporates a dual temperature feature — effortlessly adjustable by a two-way rocker switch mounted on the machine’s handle. This enables you to change between temp levels one-handed.

The LOW setting, 572-degrees Fahrenheit, should be appropriate for window tinting and decal removal — while the HIGH temperature of 1000 degrees

Fahrenheit is ideal for paint stripping and vinyl wrapping (although, check the film’s guidelines for the optimum heat required). This heat gun boasts a heavily textured handle — increasing traction in the palm and reducing accidental slippage when perspiring. Additionally, being pleasingly substantial, it’s easier to wield while wearing protective gloves. Furthermore, a backstop buffer at the base of the handle provides increased stability.

When taking a break — or finishing work for the day — you may welcome the incorporated stand. Thus allowing you to safely store the machine in an up-facing position — preventing damage to workbenches. And, while the unit comes with a 6.5-foot power cord — an extension cable will be needed for most motor applications.

  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

Pros:

N
Complete with four additional nozzles.
N
Temperature choice of 572 and 1000 degrees Fahrenheit.
N
Low price point.
N
Textured handle.

Cons:

N
Thin aluminum nozzles are liable to dents.
N
Can overheat through extended use.

VViViD Vinyls

Best for Car Wrapping

VViViD Vinyls

Best for Car Wrapping

Our Rating: 4.5

Should you not care about cable cover shrinking or desoldering — and all you’re interested in is automotive wrapping — this may be the perfect power tool.

Hailing from VViviD, a company renowned for its wrapping films, this heat gun has been designed with one primary purpose — to cover your car with vinyl.

As such, it possesses just two heat settings — 750 and 1000 degrees Fahrenheit. Selected by a handle-mounted switch, these deliver the two optimum temperatures you require for film wrapping — depending on the grade of the vinyl itself.

While lacking additional nozzles, this unit has an in-built tip, which the manufacturer indicates delivers the optimum heat delivery for car coverage. Although this restricts its use in other applications, for the ardent automotive wrapping enthusiast this won’t matter.

However, it’s not just the heat gun itself that is appealing — but also the additional accessories. This machine arrives complete with a 3M squeegee applicator — a flexible tool enabling you to smooth out your film without fear of lumps or bubbles. Plus — to ensure that the keen edge of this squeegee doesn’t rip or scratch your vinyl — the manufacturer has also included three disposable felt strips to attach to the lip of the applicator.

And, while primarily a car wrapping gun, the high temperatures reached by this machine also enable you to use it for non-automotive applications. Stripping paint, thawing pipes, or loosening rusted bolts and screws, to name but a few.

  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

Pros:

N
Dedicated heat gun for vinyl wrap.
N
Dual temperature.
N
Includes felt strips and a 3M applicator in addition to the vinyl heat gun.
N
Ergonomically-designed handle
N
Six-foot power cable.

Cons:

N
May not suit those looking for an all-around automotive gun.
N
Lacks modern styling.
N
No additional nozzles.

Prulde N2190

Best Budget

Our Rating: 4.0

If you’re looking for an automotive hot air gun that isn’t going to cost you the price of a small car — this could be a solid choice.

Although a budget-friendly option — this power tool is still packed with features to address numerous motor applications.

Featuring an additional four nozzles — disperser, reflector, fantail, and concentrator — you should be able to tailor this machine for your current motor project. This ensures that your working material always receives the correct heat intensity.

If you’re the impatient type — you may be interested in its rapid heat-up feature. Promising to reach its operating temperature within 1.5 seconds, this could appeal to those who are working within time constraints.

Temperature control is adjusted through a switch, mounted on the rear of the handle. Personally, I consider this a well thought-out location, as it enables you to alter the heat setting with your thumb — even while in use. It provides a choice between 800 and 1000 degrees Fahrenheit.

Unusually for a budget unit, this motor heat gun allows for two-handed operation. So, should you be working on a larger project, this feature may be a bonus.

Six ventilation holes improve airflow through this power tool — both keeping the machine cool in your hand and protecting the crucial heating coil. Furthermore, should these air vents become blocked or damaged, you have the peace of mind knowing this heat gun incorporates an overload protector.

This machine features a 6.5-foot power cable, instruction manual, and the backup of a two-year warranty.

  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

Pros:

N
Easy on the wallet.
N
Dual temperature control.
N
Four additional nozzles.
N
Hands-free operation.
N
Rapid heat-up feature.

Cons:

N
Some users indicate it feels like a budget machine.
N
Lacks lower-end temperature choice.
N
No hanging loop.

Conclusion


Automotive hot air guns are as essential to the motorhead as a socket set or trolley jack.

These versatile machines can address everything from vinyl wrapping, desoldering and window tinting, through to decal removal, wire-sheath shrinking, and paint stripping.

While you could use a standard DIY heat gun — these automotive machines offer the heat flexibility, distribution, and delivery intensity required for this wide spectrum of applications.

When choosing your ideal unit, take time to consider its features. Additional nozzles allow you to achieve the perfect finish, dial controls enable ease of use with gloved or oily hands, and a wide temperature range permits you to choose the optimum heat for your project.

The bottom line.

The best automotive heat gun is a crucial weapon in every car-lover’s armory.

 

 



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Automotive Heat Guns FAQs

Q: Do You Need a Heat Gun to Vinyl Wrap?

Yes, it’s essential. Using an automotive hot air gun is the only way to achieve perfect results when car wrapping. Other alternatives, such as hairdryers, neither deliver the correct temperatures nor the even heat distribution required.

Q: Why Do I Need a Car Heat Gun?

Heat guns are one of the most versatile tools for the car enthusiast. They enable you to vinyl wrap, tint windows, remove decals, strip paint, and conduct electrical work.

Q: Do You Need a Heat Gun for Window Tint?

It’s not essential. However, with a hot air automotive gun, you will achieve better results — the heat makes the film more pliable and helps to prevent trapped bubbles.

Q: Can I Use a Hair Dryer for Vinyl Wrap?

No. A hairdryer doesn’t achieve a sufficient temperature level to apply car film. Instead, use an automotive hot air gun.

Q: Can You Remove Tint With a Heat Gun?

Yes. Should you wish to remove window tinting — apply heat gently to the film. This will reduce the adhesion and allow you to easily take it off the glass.

Q: Is It Hard to Put Window Tint on Yourself?

It’s not hard — but it takes time, care, and a little bit of practice. Never rush the job, ensure that you purchase high-quality tint, and use a heat gun suitable for automotive applications.

Q: Can I Strip Paint on My Car With a Heat Gun?

Yes. However, ensure that you purchase a heat gun that can reach temperatures of at least 1000 degrees Fahrenheit to enable effective removal.

Q: Can I Defrost Car Windows With a Heat Gun?

It’s not a good idea. The rapid change of temperature from cold to hot can damage your windshield.