The belts and hoses on your car, which can be some of the cheapest and simplest parts on your car, can also be the most critical. Because they keep your engine and all its accessories running, a breakdown of a belt or hose can easily leave you stranded at the worst possible time. Worse yet, they can often lead to costly damage to your car's engine or other more expensive parts. Read More »
Maintenance
Feed Subscription<- Airbags
- Antilock Braking Systems
- Batteries
- Books
- Brakes
- Car Care
- Choosing a Repair Shop
- Cleaning
- Computers
- Cooling System
- Electrical, Fuses and Diagnostics
- Emissions
- Engine
- Exhaust System
- Fuels, Gasoline, Additives and Fluids
- General Maintenance
- Lights
- Lubricants
- Pollution and Hazardous Waste
- Recalls
- Restoration
- Seasonal Maintenance
- Selling a Used Car
- Suspension
- Technical Service Bulletins
- Tires and Wheels
- Transmission
- Tune Ups
- Vacation Preparation
What your brakes are telling you
When it comes to safety, the ability to bring your car to a quick, predictable stop is critical. Brakes need to be kept in top condition at all times because they could be called upon to save your life at any moment. Brakes require regular maintenance, too, and you need to make sure they're always ready to do their job. Read More »
Clearly a good idea
Drivers are only as good as their eyes. If poor lighting or a smudged windshield keep you from seeing obstacles, people or other cars in front of you, it could be dangerous or even deadly. To keep your view from the driver's seat as clear as possible, it's a good idea to regularly check and replace your car's lights and wiper blades. Read More »
Paint protection
A shiny, highly reflective finish is what most people think of when they imagine a nice car. New cars come with paint that can retain its sheen for many years if properly cared for, which is one way to improve both the appearance and value of your car. People will simply pay more money for a car that has a great looking paint job. Read More »
Maintenance that can save on gas
With gas prices fluctuating wildly, most drivers want to do everything they can to squeeze better gas mileage out of their current car. Fortunately, with proper maintenance, cars can get noticeable improvements in fuel economy that will help to save money down the road. Here's a look at six things you can do to boost your car's gas mileage: Read More »
When do your shocks need replacing?
Your car's suspension takes a beating every day. You might not think about your shocks and struts very often because they're hidden underneath the car where most drivers don't look. Those shocks and struts, though, actually have a major impact on your overall driving experience. At best, worn-out shocks will make your car's ride less comfortable. At worst, they can pose a serious safety problem. Read More »
Tire care
Nothing affects your car's performance and safety like the quality of your tires. While other parts may make your vehicle more fun or comfortable, your car ultimately depends on four small spots where the rubber touches the pavement. Your tires may make a bigger difference than you think, too. Good, well-maintained tires will result in a better ride, improved handling, predictable handling in wet or dry conditions, and most importantly, the safety of you and your passengers. Read More »
What Is Your Car Telling You When It Whines, Creaks, Or Squeals
When your car thumps, pings, and hisses it's hard to tell if you should take your car to the mechanic or not, so Consumer Reports has identified what noises drivers should turn down the radio for. Read More »
Injen/AMSOIL Diesel Air Intake Systems
Have a later model diesel-powered pickup and need more power to haul and tow? One well accepted way to obtain greater horsepower and torque is to install a cold air intake system. As an added benefit these systems can enhance performance with the same or even improved fuel economy. Read More »
The “3000 Mile Oil Change” is a Myth
Here is a myth that is "busted" not by the Discovery Channel's Mybusters, but the California Integrated Waste Management Board (CIWMB). The myth is that you have to change your engine oil every 3000 miles. According a recent CIWMB study, 73 percent of California drivers change their oil more frequently than their manufacturer recommends. Read More »