Best 12V Cooler For Car (2024 Update)
If you’re looking for a convenient way to keep your food and drinks cold while on the go, a 12v cooler for your car could be the perfect solution. These coolers are designed to plug into your vehicle’s 12v outlet, allowing you to keep your perishables at a safe temperature while you travel. But with so many options available, how do you know which one is the best for your needs?
Before you make a purchase, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, you need to decide on the size of the cooler based on the amount of storage you need. The voltage and power consumption are also important considerations, as you don't want one that will drain your car battery. Other features to look out for include temperature control options, built-in handles for easy carrying, and durability to withstand bumps and vibrations on the road.
If you’re still not sure which 12v cooler to choose, here are some questions to ask yourself before making a purchase: How often will I be using the cooler? What size am I looking for? Do I need additional features such as a built-in fan or insulation? Will this cooler fit comfortably in my car? Taking the time to answer these questions will help you choose the best 12v cooler for your car and ensure your food stays fresh, no matter how long the journey.
10 Best 12V Cooler For Car
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Ideal for keeping food and drinks cold on road trips or outdoor events using an electric plug or car outlet.
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Ideal for keeping food and drinks cool/warm while on the go, with both 12V DC and 24V DC options.
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This product is ideal for keeping food and beverages cool or warm while on-the-go in a car, RV or during camping.
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This product is ideal for keeping food and drinks cool or warm while on the go in a car, RV, or camping.
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The product is ideal for keeping food and drinks cool or warm while traveling, camping, fishing, or trucking.
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The product is ideal for keeping your food and drinks cool while traveling or camping in your car.
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Ideal for keeping food and drinks cold or warm while on the go, perfect for travel, fishing, and trucking.
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8
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Ideal for outdoor activities such as camping, traveling, fishing, and for use in cars or RVs as a portable fridge/freezer.
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9
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Ideal for keeping food and drinks cold or warm during road trips, camping, fishing, trucking, and other outdoor activities.
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10
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Ideal for keeping food and drinks cold on road trips, camping, fishing, and trucking with its portable electric cooler design.
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1. Igloo Thermoelectric Iceless 28-40 Qt Electric Plug-In 12v Coolers
Introducing a portable and efficient cooler that keeps your food and drinks fresh and cool without the need for ice – the Swing-Up Handle Cooler. With its 32 12-oz can capacity and 26 quarts (24 liters) of space, this cooler offers plenty of room for all your needs.
The cooler features a swing-up bale handle with comfort grip for easy carrying, and molded-in side handles for two-handed carrying or lifting. Its ergonomic design features a curved back that comfortably hugs your side while carrying, making it easy and comfortable to transport.
Designed for universal fit in 12V outlets, the cooler comes with an 8-foot long power cord that plugs into any 12V DC receptacle (such as a car's cigarette lighter) for portable use. The quiet brushless motor and convection cooling with a fan circulate cold air, taking the cooler temperature down to 36F below the surrounding air. This means your food and drinks stay cool and fresh, without the need for ice, leaving more room for other items.
Measuring 18 1/4 inches by 12 3/4 inches by 17 1/4 inches, this cooler has ample space for all your needs. With its ability to cool without ice and its spacious design, the Swing-Up Handle Cooler is the perfect solution for any outing or road trip.
2. Ultracool Car Fridge – Portable 24l Cooler/warmer
Looking for a versatile and reliable cooler or warmer for your road trips? Look no further than this 24L/27 can capacity unit, perfect for anyone who spends a lot of time driving and needs to keep their food and drinks at the right temperature. With the ability to keep your food cool at 36°F / 20°C below ambient temperature and a heating function that can heat up to 140°F, this unit has two temperature settings to suit your needs.
The cooler/warmer has a 24 liter capacity, which means it can easily fit four 2-liter bottles or up to 27 cans, or you can use it to store food and snacks for your trip. The internal dimensions are approximately 11 x 8 x 12 inches, which is ample space for your needs. The insulation is made of polyurethane foam, ensuring your food and drinks stay at the temperature you want.
The unit is easy to transport thanks to its heavy-duty handle, and the 7.5 feet cord length allows you to place it in the backseat of your vehicle. It operates on 12v DC for use in your car, and an optional AC adapter is available for home and office use (Wagan item 9903, sold separately). The hot/cold/off switch is located on the back of the unit, and has indicator lights to show you which setting is in use.
This cooler/warmer is perfect for family road trips or for anyone who wants to keep their food and drinks at the right temperature while on the go. It cools your food in just 30 minutes and has a capacity that can accommodate all of your needs. With its sturdy design, reliable performance, and convenient features, this cooler/warmer is sure to become your go-to for all your road trip needs.
3. Wagan Cool & Warm 14l Portable Fridge
The 14L 12v cooler/warmer is the perfect solution for drivers who want to save money and time while enjoying their favorite food and drinks on the go. Whether you're going on a long road trip or just running errands around town, this cooler/warmer can help you reduce or even eliminate stops at fast food joints and save gas by avoiding long lines at the drive-thru.
This versatile unit can keep your food and beverages cool without the need for messy ice, or it can keep them warm instead. It can hold up to 12 soda cans, and standard size water bottles fit inside as well. If you prefer, you can even pack healthy snacks like fruit and yogurt to take with you on the road.
The hot/cold/off switch is easy to use and has indicator lights that let you quickly see which temperature mode is in use. The maximum cooling capacity is 32 Degree-36 Degree F below room temperature, and it can heat up to a maximum of 140 Degree. This means you can keep your drinks and food at the perfect temperature no matter what the weather is like outside.
Using the cooler/warmer is a breeze – simply plug it into your vehicle's 12v DC outlet and slide the temperature control switch. The 9-foot DC power cord extends to your vehicle's back seat area, so it's easy to access no matter where you're sitting. Plus, the built-in shoulder strap makes it easy to transport the cooler/warmer wherever you go.
If you want to use the cooler/warmer at home, in the office, or in a hotel, an optional AC adapter accessory is available (sold separately). This makes it even more versatile and convenient to use.
4. Personal Pro" Thermoelectric Cooler/warmer
Introducing the 6 Quart Compact Cooler and Warmer, the perfect travel companion for your road trips. With a compact capacity of 6 quarts, this cooler provides ample storage space for your necessities while taking up minimal space in your vehicle.
This cooler boasts of dual functionality, allowing you to cool or warm your items as needed. It has a maximum cooling capacity of approximately 36°F below the ambient temperature, while its maximum warming capacity can reach up to 140°F. To ensure that your items are chilled or heated to the desired temperature as quickly as possible, pre-chill or pre-heat them before placing them inside the unit.
Transporting this cooler is a breeze, thanks to its built-in carry strap that allows you to carry it to and from your destination with ease. Say goodbye to awkward and bulky coolers that are difficult to move around.
The 6 Quart Compact Cooler and Warmer is also environmentally friendly. It has no CFCs or refrigerant inside the unit, which means there is nothing that could leak out or deplete the ozone. The cooler/warmer uses thermo-electric cooling, a simple transfer of electrical current that is both efficient and eco-friendly.
For your convenience, the dimensions of this cooler are as follows: internally, it measures 8.1 x 5.3 x 8.1 inches, while externally, it measures 15 x 11 x 8.0 inches. It can fit up to 9 (12oz.) cans, making it the perfect size for your personal use.
5. Koolatron 12v Portable Car Cooler-Warmer: Travel Companion
The P20 cooler/warmer is an excellent product that offers a 17-liter (18-quart) capacity and a unique slim design, making it perfect for holding up to 23 standard soft drink cans and fitting between the front seats of most minivans. This feature makes it an ideal cooler for those who love to travel and enjoy their beverages on the go.
The cooler/warmer is equipped with a 12V DC adapter, which can be plugged into any 12V outlet in your car, truck, or boat, making it easy to use on the go. Additionally, this thermoelectric cooler/warmer is also compatible with AC power (adapter sold separately), making it suitable for indoor use as well.
The P20 cooler/warmer is eco-friendly and utilizes iceless technology that efficiently cools to 40°F (22°C) below surrounding temperature or warms to 140°F (60°C) while using less power than your vehicle's taillight. This feature makes it highly energy-efficient and convenient for long road trips or camping trips.
The cooler/warmer is designed to be practical and durable, featuring a latch-free lid that can be opened with one hand for easy access, fold-away handles for easy carrying, cord storage, a protective exterior, and a stain-resistant lining. These features make it a reliable and sturdy product that can withstand harsh outdoor conditions.
Koolatron, the manufacturer of this 12V cooler, is a proudly Canadian company that has been manufacturing industry-leading coolers in North America for over 30 years. This feature ensures that customers get a high-quality product that has been manufactured to the highest standards.
6. Travel Cool: 15-Qt Car Plug-In Cooler
The GiTenvy car cooler plug-in is a versatile and adaptable solution for all your on-the-go cooling needs. Its soft-sided and flexible design easily conforms to fit oversized items, allowing you to fully utilize its 15-quart capacity. This unique design ensures maximum storage efficiency and convenience, making it ideal for various occasions such as road trips, camping, picnics, workplace events, parties, and grocery store visits.
Featuring an advanced semi-conduction chip, this 12v car cooler plug-in provides fast and powerful cooling, reaching temperatures as low as 33-41°F below ambient temperature. Its extra-thick EVA insulated interior, vibration-resistant EPE foam, and easy-to-clean 600D oxford fabric ensure impressive temperature retention, keeping your items consistently cooled.
Designed with car travel in mind, the GiTenvy portable electric cooler easily fits in front passenger seats, back seats, or the trunk. Its zippered top keeps your food and beverages secure even when tipped over due to road conditions, ensuring chilled and intact items throughout your journey.
The 12V portable refrigerator for car is also lightweight and carry-friendly. It features a long shoulder strap, a convenient hand-carry handle, and three zippered pockets for additional storage. Its remarkably lightweight structure ensures effortless carrying by anyone, making it the perfect solution for keeping snacks and drinks cool.
With a 6-month warranty included, you can order the GiTenvy car fridge portable 12v with confidence. Whether you're going on a road trip or just need to keep your drinks cool at a picnic, this portable electric cooler is the perfect solution for all your cooling needs.
7. Koolatron 12v Portable Cooler/warmer – Perfect For Travel!
Introducing the 9 L (9.8 qt) Portable Cooler, the perfect companion for those who are always on the go. With a generous capacity of 9 liters (9.8 quarts) and a domed lid designed to fit taller items, this personal-sized cooler/warmer is ideal for bringing lunch to work, or keeping up to 12 standard soft drink cans cold.
Equipped with a 12V DC adapter, the thermoelectric cooler/warmer can be conveniently plugged into any 12V outlet in your car, truck, or boat. It can also be used indoors, thanks to its compatibility with AC power (110V adapter sold separately).
This versatile cooler/warmer features dual-function thermoelectric technology that efficiently cools to 40°F (22°C) below the surrounding temperature, or warms to 135°F (57°C). So, whether you want to keep your drinks icy cold on a hot summer day or warm up your food on a chilly winter evening, this unit has got you covered.
The practical and durable design of the 9 L (9.8 qt) Portable Cooler makes it a go-to choice for people on the go. It features an adjustable shoulder strap for easy carrying, an injection-molded protective exterior, a stain-resistant lining, advanced insulation, and a snap-lock lid to keep your contents secure.
Proudly Canadian, Koolatron has been manufacturing industry-leading 12V coolers in North America for over 30 years. You can trust the quality and reliability of this product, which is made with care and attention to detail.
8. Euhomy 12v Portable Rv Fridge & Freezer.
The Euhomy car refrigerator is the ultimate solution for anyone looking for a compact and portable freezer with a large capacity of 21L. This versatile refrigerator can function both as a refrigerator and a freezer, making it perfect for RV1/truck drivers, boat owners, and campers who need to store a variety of foods while keeping them fresh during their travels.
One of the most impressive features of this 12-volt freezer is its high efficiency and low energy consumption. It adopts advanced 3D refrigeration technology and is equipped with a powerful compressor for fast cooling. The Euhomy 12v freezer has UL energy-saving certification, which means it consumes very low energy. Users can choose between ECO mode for energy-saving or MAX mode for fast cooling. On average, the car portable fridge only consumes 45W, which is equivalent to the power consumption of a car navigator. This not only benefits the environment but also your wallet.
The Euhomy car fridge 12v is equipped with 110/240V AC and 12/24V DC adapters, making it suitable for use at home or in the car. The RV refrigerator also provides three battery protection functions at different levels (low, medium, and high) to prevent the car power supply from being overloaded or short-circuited. This ensures that the 12 volt fridge can be used without worrying about running out of car power during the trip.
Another great feature of this portable car refrigerator is its silent and shockproof design. With a sound of only 40 decibels when running, it provides a quiet and comfortable environment for users. The overall external smooth lines and multi-functional non-slip base reduce lateral displacement, ensuring the car portable freezer can still run stably even when the car is climbing at an inclination angle of 35 degrees. This makes it possible to enjoy iced drinks in a stable and quiet environment during the trip.
The LED panel of the car refrigerator allows users to directly see the operation of the 12v refrigerator and adjust the temperature range at any time. Users can set any temperature between -4℉-50℉(-20℃-10℃) on the panel. Additionally, the car refrigerator has a lock screen function to prevent children from accidentally pressing the screen while traveling. Euhomy offers a 1-year quality assurance on their car freezer, and their customer service team is always available to answer any questions or concerns.
9. Koolatron 12v Cooler, Road-Trip Ready
The 27 L Portable Cooler is the perfect solution for all your cooling and warming needs. With a 27-liter (29-quart) capacity, this cooler provides ample space for up to 48 standard soft drink cans, making it a great choice for long road trips, camping trips, and outdoor activities.
This 12V powered cooler/warmer is designed to be used in your car, truck, or boat, and comes equipped with a 12V DC adapter. Additionally, this thermoelectric cooler/warmer is compatible with AC power (110V adapter sold separately), allowing you to use it indoors as well.
One of the standout features of this versatile cooler is its unique two-way design. The secure sliding door lock lets you use it as a classic ice chest-style cooler, or placed on its side as a portable front-opening mini refrigerator. This flexibility makes it an ideal choice for a variety of different situations.
The 27 L Portable Cooler also comes equipped with dual-function thermoelectric technology, which efficiently cools to 40°F (22°C) below the surrounding temperature or warms to 135°F (57°C). This means that you can rely on it to keep your food and drinks at the perfect temperature, no matter where you are.
Finally, it's worth noting that this cooler is proudly Canadian-made by Koolatron, a company that has been manufacturing industry-leading 12V coolers in North America for over 30 years. So, you can feel confident that you're getting a high-quality product that's built to last.
10. North American Road Trip Companion: Koolatron Cooler
The portable cooler from Koolatron is a reliable option for those who love to explore the outdoors or enjoy road trips. This 24-liter (26-quart) cooler has an advanced insulation system and a tightly locking lid that ensures ice retention for up to 3.3 days, which is a full day longer than many of its competitors.
The Koolatron portable cooler has a capacity of 24 liters and can easily hold up to 31 standard soft drink cans. Additionally, it is tall enough to accommodate 2-liter bottles that can fit upright. The cooler is perfect for long journeys as it can be easily plugged into any 12-volt outlet in a car, truck, or boat. For indoor use, the cooler can be used with an AC power adapter (110V adapter sold separately).
This efficient thermoelectric cooler uses advanced technology to cool the contents to 36°F (22°C) below the surrounding temperature without the need for any ice. As a result, the cooler provides iceless cooling which is not only convenient but also cost-effective in the long run.
The Koolatron portable cooler is proudly manufactured in North America by a reliable Canadian brand that has been in the industry for over 30 years. With its advanced insulation system, efficient cooling technology, and compatibility with multiple power sources, this portable cooler is a must-have for anyone who loves to travel.
Best 12V Cooler For Car FAQs
Are there any 12v coolers for cars with built-in battery packs?
Yes, there are several 12v coolers for cars with built-in battery packs available in the market. These coolers are designed to keep your food and drinks cool while you are on the go. They are perfect for road trips, camping, and other outdoor activities.
One of the popular options is the Dometic CFX 28 Portable Refrigerator. It has a 12v DC power cord and a built-in lithium battery that can last up to 10 hours. It also has a digital display and a temperature range of -7°F to 50°F.
Another option is the ARB Portable Fridge Freezer. It has a 12v DC power cord and a built-in battery that can last up to 10 hours. It also has a digital display and a temperature range of -7°F to 50°F.
Both of these coolers are durable, energy-efficient, and easy to use. They are also designed to withstand harsh outdoor conditions and can operate in extreme temperatures.
Can a 12v cooler for a car also be used as a warmer?
Yes, many 12v coolers for cars also have the ability to warm food or drinks. These coolers are designed to work as either a cooler or a warmer, depending on your needs. The warming function typically works by reversing the cooling process, which means that instead of removing heat from the inside of the cooler, it adds heat to warm up the contents inside.
When using a 12v cooler as a warmer, it's important to note that it may take longer to warm up your food or drinks than it does to cool them down. This is because it takes more energy to add heat to something than it does to remove it. Additionally, you'll want to make sure that the cooler is plugged into a power source that can handle the increased energy demands of the warming function.
Overall, if you're looking for a versatile cooler that can keep your drinks cold in the summer and warm up your food in the winter, a 12v cooler with a warming function may be a good choice for you.
How do portable 12v coolers for cars compare to traditional refrigerators in terms of cooling performance?
When it comes to cooling performance, portable 12v coolers for cars and traditional refrigerators have different strengths and weaknesses. Portable 12v coolers are designed to be compact and easy to transport, making them a great option for road trips and camping. However, their cooling performance may not be as powerful as that of a traditional refrigerator. They are typically able to cool items down to around 40°F below the ambient temperature, which may not be cold enough for some perishable items.
On the other hand, traditional refrigerators are generally larger and more powerful, providing a wider range of temperature settings and more consistent cooling performance. They are better suited for home use and can keep perishable items at a safe temperature for longer periods of time.
Overall, the choice between a portable 12v cooler and a traditional refrigerator will depend on your specific needs and intended use. If you need a compact and portable option for short trips, a 12v cooler may be the better choice. However, if you need a more powerful and reliable cooling solution for home use, a traditional refrigerator is likely the way to go.
How long do 12v coolers for cars typically keep food and drinks cold?
The duration that a 12v cooler for cars keeps food and drinks cold varies depending on several factors. The quality of the cooler, the outside temperature, and the amount of food and drinks stored in the cooler all play a role in determining how long it will keep items cold.
Generally, a high-quality 12v cooler for cars can keep food and drinks cold for up to 24 hours, while a cheaper model may only last for a few hours. In addition to the quality of the cooler, the outside temperature is also a significant factor. If the outside temperature is extremely hot, the cooler may not be able to keep the items cold for as long as it would in cooler temperatures.
Finally, the amount of food and drinks stored in the cooler also affects how long it will keep items cold. If the cooler is packed full, it will stay colder for longer than if it is only partially filled. In summary, the duration that a 12v cooler for cars keeps food and drinks cold varies depending on several factors, but a high-quality cooler can typically keep items cold for up to 24 hours.
How much power do 12v coolers for cars consume?
The power consumption of 12v coolers for cars varies depending on the make and model of the cooler and the ambient temperature. On average, most 12v coolers for cars consume between 3 to 6 amps per hour. However, some models can consume up to 10 amps per hour.
It is important to note that the power consumption of these coolers also depends on how often they are opened and closed, the temperature of the items being stored, and the temperature of the surrounding environment.
To ensure that your cooler operates efficiently, it is essential to use it with a fully charged battery and avoid running it continuously for extended periods. It is also advisable to keep the cooler in a shaded area and avoid exposing it to direct sunlight.
In conclusion, the power consumption of 12v coolers for cars varies, but on average, they consume between 3 to 6 amps per hour.
What are the best 12v coolers for cars on the market?
When it comes to choosing the best 12v coolers for cars, there are a lot of options available in the market. Some of the top-rated 12v coolers for cars include the Dometic CFX 35W, ARB 50 Qt, and the Koolatron P-20. These coolers are specifically designed to fit into the trunk or back seat of your car and can keep your food and drinks cold for an extended period of time.
The Dometic CFX 35W is a high-end cooler that comes with advanced features like a digital display, Wi-Fi connectivity, and a powerful compressor that can maintain temperature even in hot weather conditions. The ARB 50 Qt is another popular option that is known for its rugged construction and excellent cooling performance. It can also freeze food and drinks, making it perfect for long road trips.
The Koolatron P-20 is a more affordable option that is ideal for shorter trips. It can hold up to 18 cans and comes with a built-in handle for easy transportation. Overall, the best 12v coolers for cars depend on your specific needs and budget. It's important to consider factors like capacity, cooling performance, and features before making a purchase.
What are the key features to consider when choosing a 12v cooler for a car?
When choosing a 12v cooler for a car, there are several key features to consider. The first consideration is the size of the cooler. You need to consider the size of your car and how much space you have available for the cooler. The second feature to consider is the cooling capacity of the cooler. You want to make sure that the cooler can keep your food and drinks cool for the duration of your trip. The third feature to consider is the power consumption of the cooler. You need to make sure that the cooler does not drain your car battery. The fourth feature to consider is the durability of the cooler. You want to make sure that the cooler is built to last and can withstand the rigors of travel. The fifth feature to consider is the price of the cooler. You want to make sure that you are getting a good value for your money. By considering these key features, you can choose a 12v cooler that meets your needs and fits your budget.
What is the maximum capacity of a 12v cooler for a car?
The maximum capacity of a 12v cooler for a car can vary depending on the specific model and brand. However, most 12v coolers for cars have a capacity between 20 and 60 quarts. It's important to note that the capacity of a cooler is not the same as the amount of items it can hold. The capacity refers to the total volume of the cooler, but the amount of items it can hold will depend on their size and shape.
When choosing a 12v cooler for your car, it's important to consider your specific needs. If you plan on using it for a weekend camping trip, a smaller cooler may suffice. However, if you plan on using it for extended trips or for a large group of people, a larger cooler with a greater capacity may be necessary.
It's also important to consider the power source for the cooler. 12v coolers are designed to be powered by a car's cigarette lighter, but some models may also come with an AC adapter for use with a standard wall outlet.
What is the price range for high-quality 12v coolers for cars?
The price range for high-quality 12v coolers for cars can vary depending on the brand, size and features. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $500 for a 12v car cooler. The more expensive models tend to have larger capacities, better insulation, and additional features such as built-in refrigeration units, digital temperature controls, and even Wi-Fi connectivity.
It's important to note that while a higher price tag may indicate better quality and features, it's always important to do your research and read reviews before making a purchase. You should also consider your specific needs and budget when deciding on a cooler. If you only need to keep a few drinks cool on a short road trip, a less expensive model may be sufficient. However, if you're planning a long road trip and need to keep food and drinks cool for several days, investing in a higher-end cooler may be worth it in the long run.
What types of vehicles are compatible with 12v coolers for cars?
12v coolers for cars are designed to be compatible with a variety of vehicles, including cars, trucks, vans, RVs, and boats. These coolers are powered by the vehicle's 12-volt DC power outlet, also known as the cigarette lighter socket. This means that as long as your vehicle has a 12-volt DC power outlet, you can use a 12v cooler in it.
However, it's important to note that 12v coolers come in different sizes and capacities, so it's important to choose one that fits your vehicle's size and your cooling needs. Some coolers are designed to fit in the backseat of a car, while others are large enough to fit in the trunk or cargo area of an SUV or van.
Additionally, some 12v coolers also come with AC adapters, which means they can be used in a standard wall outlet, making them versatile and convenient for use in a variety of settings. Overall, as long as your vehicle has a 12-volt DC power outlet, you should be able to use a 12v cooler in it.
