If you frequently travel and need an effective way to carry gear, a roof rack is a much-needed tool. Roof-mounted rack and rail systems give you more interior space, let you carry irregularly shaped items like bikes and kayaks, add aesthetic appeal, and can even be safer than a trailer or piling everything in the […]
Author: Evan Riley
Nokian Retractable Studded Tires: What Are They, and Should You Buy Them?
Studded tires have been a winter-weather option for decades, and it appeared the technology had hit its limit. However, as serious car people learned in early March, there’s always room for innovation even in a seemingly mature field. That’s when Nokian Tyres, the Scandinavian company that released not only the first true winter tire in […]
A Flurry of Pre-Winter Maintenance Tips
Each season has its own unique demands, but winter is easily one of the more trying. From icy roads and frost heaves to low temperatures, shorter and darker days, and the visibility issues that can come with towering snowbanks, drivers can easily find themselves in hot water when it comes to navigating their vehicles through […]
Your Guide to Disposing of Old Engine Oil
So, you’ve successfully completed an oil change, now what? What exactly do you do with all that dirty oil you just filtered out of your car? Disposing of old oil properly is very important, especially when it comes to keeping stormwater and drainage systems clean and safe. You can’t just toss the oil in your […]
Airbags and Motorcycles: A Look at Motorcycle Airbag Vests
Climbing in the saddle of a motorcycle is inherently risky, but that risk is often worth the reward for riders who appreciate the open-air freedom only riding offers. Unlike cars, trucks, or SUVs, motorcycles offer zero protection as you navigate the road. You’re not sitting in a high-strength steel cage but are vulnerable and physically […]
What Is an Ignition Coil?
The ignition coils aren’t the first, second, or even third component most people think of when it comes to car engines; however, they are a crucial component for making your vehicle start and run. When an ignition coil wears out or fails, the engine is going to run rough—or it may not run at all, […]
The Importance of Following Your Ford F-150 Lightning’s Maintenance Schedule
With the steady electrification of the modern auto market, many of today’s cars, trucks and SUVs are more efficient — and environmentally friendly — than ever. While this efficiency has been the driving factor in the growth of the EV segment, it’s far from the only advantage of an all-electric powertrain. While the instant acceleration […]
What’s a Head Gasket?
For such a small part, the head gasket plays a significant role in how your engine performs. When a head gasket is working as it should, so will your engine; if it goes bad, a failed head gasket can lead to major repairs—especially if it’s not addressed right away. Knowing what a head gasket is […]
Vehicle Basics for the Would-Be Mechanic
Depending on the day, car ownership can either seem like a ticket to freedom or a weighty, gas-powered albatross hanging around your neck. The same car, truck or SUV that’s so pivotal to your everyday life can start to feel like a burden when things go wrong. While some drivers are quick to call in […]
Hot Honda Engines: A Look at Honda’s World-Famous Engine Families
What makes a person a Honda driver for life? Stop by an auto repair shop and ask five different people, and you might get five different answers, but we’re willing to bet they all have something to do with the automaker’s engine. Be it performance, power, reliability, or affordability. Honda is a brand that has […]
What Tires Should You Choose for Your Subaru Outback?
If you go to a local dealership and find a Subaru Outback for sale, only a few types of tires will come standard on a new model. There’s some variation among the different trim levels, from the entry-level Base to the off-road-ready Wilderness to the high-tier Touring, but there won’t be a ton of variety. […]
Picking the Right Car Wash for Your Vehicle and Budget
When it comes to protecting your car from the elements, picking the right type of car wash is important. From self-service bays and automated car washes to full-service car detailing operations, there are countless options on the market claiming to be the best, but how do they stack up? Some drivers might prioritize speed and […]
What You Need to Know About Your Transmission
Besides the engine, your transmission is the most expensive part of your vehicle that might need to be replaced or rebuilt. The transmission is absolutely essential to your vehicle’s performance. It is so integrated into your vehicle that a great deal of time and effort is needed to remove and replace it. That’s the bad […]
Be Prepared: Stocking Your Car for Any Emergency
Life likes to throw us curveballs, especially when we’re on the road. That’s why it’s important to be prepared. Knowing what emergency equipment to keep in your car can make all the difference when the road gets rough. It’s always a smart idea to keep your vehicle well-equipped with basic emergency tools and supplies and […]
Performance Tires Versus Regular Tires: What’s the Difference?
When hitting up your local dealership for a new ride, the number of options can be thrilling and overwhelming. Even a car expert can grow exhausted cycling through the different trims and accessories, trying to decide what’s worth adding on, and balancing taste and economics. A classic conundrum is the choice between performance tires and […]
10 Tips for Proper Maintenance After Off-Roading
Regardless of what kind of vehicle you have, proper maintenance and routine service are the most important things you can do to keep it running perfectly. This is even more crucial if you have a ride that you like to take off-road, since you’re putting your truck or SUV through much more abuse than the […]
Repairs and Maintenance That Can Improve Your Vehicle’s Resale Value
There are plenty of drivers who don’t start thinking about their car’s resale value until they’re about to sell it or trade it in for something new. Unfortunately, by that point, it’s too late to do a lot of the things that can make your vehicle a more valuable asset. If you really want to […]
Understanding Front-Wheel, Rear-Wheel, All-Wheel, and Four-Wheel Drive
While most drivers are quick to look at the engine under the hood and its specs, others know the value of digging deeper to see how the automaker improves the engine’s power delivery to enhance performance and control behind the wheel. In other words, will the engine deliver enough power to make the vehicle agile […]
An Introduction to Body Kits
When it comes to aftermarket changes and modifications you can make to your vehicle, you have a ton of different options available. Nothing is quite as dramatic, at least in terms of visual impact, as a body kit that alters the look of your ride. There are a huge number of body kits available, with […]
Winterizing Your Diesel: Basic Steps to Protect Your Diesel in Freezing Temps
Whether you’re a long-time diesel fan or recently switched from a gas-guzzling truck to a diesel-powered road warrior, it’s critical to know how to protect your truck. Diesel truck service needs are different, specifically in the winter when temperatures fall below freezing and your diesel struggles to keep up with the daily demands of the […]
Oil Change 101: When Should You Change Your Oil?
Changing your oil is vehicle maintenance 101. Regular oil changes must be carried out to keep your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently. But this might leave you wondering when to start searching for an “oil change near me.” Knowing when to schedule a regular oil change can be confusing if you don’t know what “regular” […]