Car maintenance sounds like a straightforward task. Once every few months, you drive to the garage and have qualified technicians check the vehicle for flaws that affect performance. It’s an ongoing process you must follow for any make and model of vehicle. However, there are common maintenance mistakes that you may not even realize you’re making, which can impact your vehicle’s overall performance. Here are the top nine car maintenance mistakes that you should avoid. Servicing with any garage It’s always better to get your car serviced from an authorized garage franchising with the car brand. For example, if you’ve bought a vehicle from local Dodge dealers, it’s beneficial to take it for servicing at Dodge dealership-owned garages for repairs and periodic maintenance. When it comes to specialty vehicles, it’s crucial to have technicians who are experienced in using the right tools and performing repairs, maintenance, and replacements. It’s important to avoid having unqualified or uninformed individuals working on these vehicles at a local garage. Not using genuine parts Vehicle spare parts are sold a dime a dozen since there are many cheap knockoffs that you can get for a fraction of the price. Duplicate or refurbished parts increase the risk of significant safety concerns, especially when you buy brake pads, electrical components, and other engine parts critical to the vehicle’s performance.

Whether one has recently purchased a car or already owns one, there’s a skill that one must master, which is washing the car. The task is more than just using a wet, soapy sponge to lather and then rinse the hull of your vehicle. Not doing it the right way could result in damaging the paint, causing rust to build up, and making the vehicle look dull and old. So here are eight mistakes to avoid when washing and cleaning your car. Cleaning in direct sunlight While one might know everything about how to clean their car, they might do so in direct sunlight. The surface of the automobile may become extremely hot when exposed to sunlight, which could result in scratches when one washes and cleans the car. Moreover, dirt, mud, and bird dropping may turn very dry in direct sunlight, making them harder to wash away. There might also be soap residue and water spots if it evaporates before you have rinsed it off properly. One of the best times to wash the car is after five in the evening or before nine in the morning when sunlight isn’t directly overhead. Using sponges on paint Most car owners use sponges to wash their automobiles.

When it comes to buying a used car, individuals often tread cautiously to ensure a wise investment. Buying a pre-owned vehicle can help save money while still obtaining a reliable mode of transportation. However, there are several crucial factors to consider to ensure one obtains the best value for the money and avoids potential pitfalls. This article lists the top considerations when buying a used car, empowering prospective buyers to make informed decisions. Tips to find a low-price used car nearby Set a budget The first step in buying a used car is establishing a clear budget. Knowing how much one is willing to spend can help narrow down options and prevent going over budget. Thus, one should consider the purchase price and other factors like insurance, maintenance, and fuel. Being realistic about finances is essential while looking for used cars, as it helps ensure that one buys a low-priced car within their set budget. Research the vehicle Buyers should look for reviews, reliability ratings, and common issues associated with the vehicle they are interested in. Online resources, such as automotive forums and websites, can provide valuable insights from other owners who have had experience with the same car. It is important to ensure that the vehicle meets one’s needs in terms of size, features, and performance.

In an era where safety is paramount, selecting a crossover SUV that combines style, utility, and security becomes a top priority for many. The year 2023 brings a lineup of crossover SUVs that excel in safety features, earning high marks in crash tests and offering innovative technology. This article delves into the top contenders for the safest crossover SUVs 2023 title, providing insight into their crucial safety features, performance, and overall value. Subaru Outback Subaru has long been associated with safety, and the 2023 Subaru Outback is no exception. Equipped with Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive and EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, the Outback boasts impressive safety credentials. The EyeSight system includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and pre-collision braking. Combined with excellent crash test ratings and a spacious interior, the Subaru Outback earns its place as one of the safest crossover SUVs in 2023. Toyota RAV4 The Toyota RAV4 has constantly been a top performer in the crossover SUV segment, and the 2023 model is no different. It features Toyota’s Safety Sense 2.0, which includes advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. In addition, the RAV4 offers robust build quality and reliability, making it a solid choice for safety-conscious consumers.

Buying a used car can be a smart and budget-friendly decision, but it also requires careful consideration to ensure that one gets a reliable vehicle that meets their needs. Whether one is a first-time buyer or experienced in the used car market, there are crucial factors to keep in mind to make a well-informed purchase. To make it easier, here is a list of the top 10 things everyone should do or consider when buying a used car: 1. Set a budget Setting a budget is the fundamental first step when considering the purchase of a used car. Without a clear budget, it’s easy to get carried away by shiny advertisements and seemingly great deals. However, creating a budget is not just about determining how much one is willing to spend upfront; it’s also about understanding the ongoing costs associated with car ownership. In addition to the purchase price, one must factor in expenses like taxes and registration fees. The state determines tax rates and registration fees, so research these costs in advance. By having a comprehensive budget that considers all these factors, one will be better prepared to make an informed decision. 2. Research the vehicle’s history A vehicle history report is an indispensable tool when buying a used car.

When it comes to purchasing a Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV), safety is the number one priority and concern. SUVs are known for their versatility, power, and spaciousness, making them a popular choice for families and adventure enthusiasts. However, their larger size and increased ride height also bring unique safety challenges for beginner and veteran drivers. It’s crucial to understand and prioritize the safety features available in modern SUVs, as explained in this comprehensive guide. Here are the safety features to look for before buying an SUV: 1. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) ESC is a crucial safety feature that helps prevent skidding and loss of control of the vehicle in slippery conditions. Where there is snow, rain, or just anything that makes the tires lose traction, ESC automatically applies brakes to individual wheels and reduces engine power. These calculations are spontaneous when the feature detects the vehicle is veering off the intended path. ESC is a potential lifesaver in adverse weather conditions and during sharp turns, all the while ensuring the SUV remains stable and under control. 2. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) ABS is another essential feature that works with the ESC circuits to prevent the wheels from locking up during hard braking.

Driving a pickup truck could be an exhilarating experience, whether using it for work, hauling equipment, or simply enjoying the open road. However, navigating these powerful vehicles might be daunting for rookie drivers. Trucks are heavier and larger than cars, requiring better control and judgment. Here are 11 common rookie mistakes one should steer clear of to prevent accidents, vehicle damage, or costly repairs and ensure a smooth and safe journey. Overloading the cargo bed Pickup trucks are designed to carry heavy loads, but exceeding their capacity could lead to severe consequences. Overloading might strain the suspension, brakes, and tires, reducing control and increasing stopping distances. It could also stress the truck’s frame, potentially leading to costly repairs. Drivers should always check the manufacturer’s recommended weight limits for their truck model. Such information is usually printed in the owner’s manual or a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb. Ignoring trailer towing guidelines Towing a trailer requires a different skill set than standard driving, and rookie pickup truck drivers often make mistakes in this area. Ignoring trailer towing guidelines, such as the maximum towing capacity and tongue weight, could lead to dangerous situations. For example, exceeding the recommended capacity might strain the engine and transmission, increasing the risk of overheating and mechanical failure.

Tires are a huge part of a vehicle’s structure. Selecting the correct set of tires is crucial for a vehicle’s performance and longevity. This is why buyers must be watchful and careful while purchasing tires. Mistakes are common when one buys tires for their vehicles. Knowing the mistakes makes it easier for people to avoid them while buying tires online or offline. Here are some of the most common purchasing mistakes buyers make: 1. Choosing incompatible tires Tires come in various specs, many of which may not be compatible with the buyer’s given car model. This is why one needs to know the exact specs of their vehicle before stepping into a tire store. All one needs to do is check their vehicle’s owner’s manual, which contains all the details about the best tire brands and a guide on what size and type of tires can be used for the given vehicle. Also, vehicle owners can check the tire placard for exact details. This placard is normally placed near a vehicle’s driver’s side door. 2. Buying inferior tires Nobody purchases “bad” tires for their vehicle on purpose. But sometimes, people may unknowingly buy tires that are inferior in terms of quality.

In automotive safety, few components are as critical as the tires that connect a vehicle to the road. The tire’s condition becomes paramount, directly influencing driving performance and passenger safety. Recognizing the signs indicating replacement is the first step toward a smooth ride. Experts recommend replacing tires that reach the six-year mark to ensure continued safety and optimal performance. Consumers can confidently navigate the tire-buying process and save money with the following tips. Prioritize regular tire maintenance Proper maintenance, including regular pressure checks, rotations, and alignments, extends tire life and reduces the frequency of replacements. This simple yet critical step ensures safety and leads to significant long-term savings. Well-maintained tires provide better fuel efficiency and even wear patterns, lowering overall costs. Match tires to seasonal needs Using season-specific tires, such as winter or summer variants, improves traction and handling, reducing the strain on the primary set and prolonging its lifespan. This practice enhances safety and ensures that tires perform optimally in the specific conditions they are designed for. Thoroughly research tire brands and models Delving into brand and model research helps buyers balance quality and cost. Factors like price, performance, and warranty coverage are essential considerations for making an informed choice.

Several vehicle choices are available in the market, including new and used cars. Each of these may cost a significant amount of money. However, one option people overlook is purchasing a seized vehicle, usually at a public auction. These are automobiles that certain institutions lay claim to for various reasons, including failure to make payments. Here are eight things people should keep in mind when considering buying a seized car. Knowing the seizure’s reason and the seller Before buying a seized car, one needs to understand what the vehicles are and who sells them. Such vehicles are previously privately owned by an individual but seized by a government entity. While some of the most popular seized car auctions are tied to the US Marshals Service, about every local government also holds seized car auctions. An individual who looks into an auto auction listing should find it easy to identify who is selling the automobile, as very few auctions include a combination of sellers. These are city-seized, state-seized, or federal government-seized car auctions. There is a specific location for sale Most seized cars are sold at an auction at some point. Some might not make it to the auction for various reasons, including if its former owner reclaims it.