You don't want to direct-drive a relay from an IC unless
you are really sure it's got output drivers meant for the
application. The inductive kick can overrun ESD clamps
and stuff current into the substrate with unpredictable,
but seldom desirable results. Using an external transistor,
relay driver IC, even a tougher SSI buffer IC, anything
to get return currents and flyback currents out of the
big brain is a good idea.
Then you have the ground bounce problems that any
abrupt current switching can cause; that wants the load
and return paths all off board if possible, with only coil
currents managed.
In automotive systems you have to beware the load dump
event, the alternator has fairly poor and slow load step
response and the battey is expected to backstop it. But
that can fail with poor connections to ground or B+, or
an aged, internally resistive battery. 60V spikes are a
design "abnormal condition" and you never, ever want
to assume "12V" is 12V. Use at least a "40V" regulator
like a 78xx series, or a DC-DC supply with similar or
better overvoltage margin.
Be sure you have a freewheel diode for the coil somewhere,
if it's not embedded in the relay itself. And if it is, be sure
you respect the coil polarity because now it has one.