Choosing the right tires for your vehicle is important for safety, performance, and your wallet. The type of tires you need depends on your vehicle make and model, where you live, how you drive, and other factors. Here are some tips to help you select tires that will serve you well.

First, check your owner’s manual or vehicle door jamb for the correct tire size. The size is a combination of numbers and letters printed on your tire’s sidewall. It indicates width, aspect ratio, construction, and wheel diameter. Installing the wrong size tires can damage your vehicle and void the warranty.

Consider the climate where you live and drive. If there are frequent rain, snow, or icy conditions, choose tires that perform well in those weather conditions. All-season tires can handle some snow and rain, but for frequent harsh weather, consider snow tires. High-performance summer tires are not suitable for winter driving.

Think about the type of driving you do. If you frequently drive at high speeds or tow heavy loads, choose tires suited to those needs. High-performance tires offer enhanced handling, while heavy-duty tires are built to support more weight. For normal driving, standard all-season tires will work fine.

Check the treadwear rating, which indicates how long the tires should last. Higher ratings like 600 or more mean the tires should last longer. Tires with shorter tread life, like 200 to 400, tend to provide better performance but need replacing more often.

Consider the brand and price. Major brands like Michelin, Goodyear, and Bridgestone are reputable and offer good value. Lesser-known brands may cost less but won’t last as long. For the best balance of performance and price, choose a mid-range major brand.

Buy from a reputable tire retailer or installer. They can evaluate your needs, recommend quality tires that suit your vehicle and driving style, and properly install the new tires. Be sure to get a warranty, as most tire warranties cover defects for at least 2 to 3 years or a certain number of miles.

With the right tires for your needs and driving conditions, you’ll enjoy a smooth, quiet ride, confident handling, maximum safety, and the knowledge that you made a wise investment in your vehicle. Take your time to choose carefully, and you’ll be rewarded with many thousands of miles of dependable performance.

Off-road vehicles are rapidly improving and evolving as automakers continue pushing the envelope. For 2024, there are some incredibly capable 4×4 vehicles set to hit the market with advanced powertrains, high-tech systems, and rugged designs purpose-built for conquering challenging terrain. Here’s a look at five of the most exciting new 4×4 vehicles coming in 2024:

The new Land Rover Defender is one of the most iconic 4×4 vehicles and the latest version does not disappoint. For 2024, Land Rover is offering a plug-in hybrid version with nearly 400 horsepower and 472 pound-feet of torque. With its permanent all-wheel drive system, two-speed transfer case, and adjustable air suspension, the Defender P400e can take on any trail while also providing an EV range of up to 27 miles for the daily commute.

Jeep is expanding the Wrangler 4xe lineup with a new long-wheelbase model. The Jeep Wrangler 4xe Unlimited pairs a 375-hp plug-in hybrid powertrain with Jeep’s Selec-Trac full-time four-wheel drive system and Dana 44 axles. The 4xe Unlimited has all the off-road capability of the standard Wrangler but with extra passenger and cargo space. Plus, it will offer an estimated 25 miles of all-electric range for driving around town.

The Ford F-150 Raptor R is the most extreme F-150 yet. Powered by a supercharged 5.2-liter V8 pumping out over 700 hp, the Raptor R will be an off-road monster. Upgraded Fox Racing shocks, beadlock-capable wheels, and a Torsen front differential are just a few of the enhancements made to withstand the power of the Raptor R. Simply put, it will be the most powerful and most capable Raptor ever built.

Toyota is working on an all-new 4Runner TRD Pro model with major upgrades for serious off-roading. The 2024 4Runner TRD Pro is rumored to have a more powerful V6 engine, an advanced four-wheel drive system, an electronic locking rear differential, a dual-range transfer case, and Toyota’s KDSS hydraulic suspension system for increased articulation. The 4Runner TRD Pro has always been highly capable but the 2024 model is shaping up to be a beast.

Last but not least, the GMC Yukon AT4X is designed to take on the most challenging desert trails. The Yukon AT4X builds on the popular AT4 model with special off-road equipment like front and rear electronic locking differentials, Multimatic DSSV dampers, 33-inch BFGoodrich KO2 all-terrain tires, and skid plates protecting major components. A 6.2-liter V8 with 420 horsepower provides plenty of power for high-speed desert running or rock crawling. The Yukon AT4X is the ultimate full-size SUV for off-road adventures.

Your car’s dashboard is like its control center, providing you with important information about how your vehicle is operating. Various warning lights illuminate on the dashboard to alert you to any issues with your vehicle that may need attention. It’s important to understand what each of these warning lights means so you know if it’s safe to continue driving or if you need to pull over.

The engine warning light is one of the most important. If this light comes on, it usually means there is a problem with your vehicle’s emissions system, and you should have the vehicle checked as soon as possible. In some cases, the vehicle will continue to operate normally, but in others, it could enter a “limp mode” with reduced engine power. It’s best not to ignore this warning.

The oil warning light means your engine oil level is low. This requires immediate attention because driving without enough oil can permanently damage your vehicle’s engine. Pull over as soon as it’s safe and turn off the engine. Check your oil level with the dipstick and add oil if needed. The light should go off once the oil level is normal. If it remains on, have the vehicle checked.

The temperature gauge shows your engine’s temperature. If the gauge moves into the red zone or the high-temperature warning light comes on, it means your engine is overheating. This is a serious issue that requires immediate attention to avoid permanent engine damage. Pull over as soon as safely possible, turn off the vehicle and call for emergency roadside assistance.

The brake warning light means there is an issue with your vehicle’s brake system that needs to be checked immediately. It could indicate low brake fluid, worn brake pads, or other brake problems. Driving with brake issues is extremely dangerous, so pull over and call for emergency roadside assistance right away.

The tire pressure monitoring system light comes on if one or more of your tires is under-inflated. Driving on under-inflated tires reduces handling, braking, and fuel economy, and the tires can overheat. Pull over and check your tire pressures as soon as possible. Inflate any under-inflated tires to the recommended pressures listed in your owner’s manual or on the tire placard located in the driver’s side door jamb or fuel door.

The airbag warning light means there is an issue with one of your vehicle’s airbags or the airbag system. This could impact the airbags’ ability to deploy properly in a crash. Have the vehicle checked by your dealer or a mechanic with access to airbag system diagnostics equipment as soon as possible to determine the problem. It’s not safe to drive until the issue has been diagnosed and repaired.

The anti-lock brake system warning light means there is an issue with your vehicle’s ABS system. The normal braking system will still function, but the ABS may not activate in an emergency braking situation. Have the ABS system checked as soon as possible for diagnosis and repair to restore this important safety system.

The check engine light is one of the most common dashboard warning lights. It indicates an issue with your vehicle’s emissions system. While the vehicle will typically continue to operate normally, it’s best to have the vehicle checked within a few days to determine the problem. An unaddressed issue could impact fuel economy and emissions.

The charging system warning light means your vehicle’s alternator is not properly charging the battery. This requires immediate attention to avoid being stranded with a drained battery. Pull over as soon as safely possible and turn off all accessories to limit battery drain. Call for emergency roadside assistance since the vehicle may need to be towed for repair or diagnostics.

Driving with any warning light illuminated can be dangerous, so always pull over as soon as it’s safe to do so and call for assistance if needed. Never ignore warning lights, as the issues they indicate require diagnosis and repair to keep your vehicle operating safely. Regular service and inspections are the best way to catch any problems early and keep your vehicle running well.

There are many useful apps out there for car owners that can help make owning and maintaining a vehicle much more convenient. Here are five of the best apps every car owner should have on their phone.

GasBuddy is a must-have app that can save you money on gas. It provides real-time gas price information based on your location so you can find the cheapest gas stations near you. It can save you up to $200 a year on fuel costs. The app shows you gas stations nearby along with the current prices for regular, mid-grade and premium fuel. You can even check recent price trends to see which stations typically have the lowest prices.

Another useful app for car owners is AAA Mobile. This free app provides roadside assistance at the tap of a button. If you have a flat tire, dead battery or lock your keys in the car, you can use the app to request emergency roadside help. The service is free for AAA members. The app can also provide driving directions, traffic updates and help you find discounts on hotels, restaurants and entertainment.

If you ever get into an accident, the American Automobile Association’s Crash Connect app can make the aftermath much easier to deal with. The app allows you to quickly report an accident to connect you with emergency services if anyone is injured. It also helps document the details of the crash by allowing you to record photos and notes about the vehicles involved, insurance information, location, time of day and weather conditions. All this information can then be emailed to yourself, the other driver(s) involved and your insurance companies.

For basic vehicle diagnostics and maintenance, try the Verizon Hum app. Once you install the Hum device in your vehicle, the app can provide real-time updates on engine diagnostics, mileage, location and speed. It will alert you when it’s time for routine maintenance like oil changes, tune-ups or tire rotations. You can also set up alerts if the vehicle is used outside of designated hours to help monitor teen drivers or prevent theft. The service starts at $10/month with no long-term contract.

Finally, a dash cam app like Nexar can give you peace of mind while driving and capture video evidence in the event of an accident. The app turns your phone into a dash cam that continuously records video while you drive. Video is recorded in loops, but clips are automatically saved if an accident occurs. The video can then be used to determine fault and help with insurance claims. The app is free to use but requires a phone mount to attach your phone to the windshield.

Diesel engines have been around for decades, but they continue to generate both interest and controversy. On the one hand, diesel engines are known for their excellent fuel economy and high torque, which provides strong acceleration. However, diesel engines also have some significant downsides like higher upfront costs, more expensive fuel, and the foul exhaust that contains pollutants like soot and nitrogen oxides.

For drivers interested in an efficient vehicle that can handle heavy loads, a diesel engine is worth considering. Diesel-powered vehicles typically offer 20 to 40 percent better fuel economy than comparable gas vehicles. Diesel engines also produce high amounts of torque, so they work well for pulling heavy loads. Many large vehicles like trucks, vans, and SUVs rely on diesel power.

However, diesel engines have some significant downsides to keep in mind. Diesel vehicles are more expensive than gas vehicles, often costing $10,000 or more extra. Diesel fuel is also typically more expensive than regular gasoline. Diesel engines require periodic exhaust treatment to reduce pollution, and they produce noxious emissions like soot and nitrogen oxides. As a result, many cities and states have imposed extra fees and taxes on diesel vehicles.

Diesel engines also require more frequent oil changes and other maintenance. The high-pressure fuel injection systems in diesel engines are complex and can be expensive to repair if there is a problem. Diesel engines may last longer than gas engines in terms of miles, but they typically require more frequent service visits to keep running well.

For many drivers, the improved fuel efficiency and performance of a diesel engine are appealing. However, the higher costs, more expensive fuel, frequent maintenance, and environmental impact are significant downsides to consider based on your needs and budget. If fuel economy and torque are most important, a diesel could be right for you. But for most drivers, a gas-powered vehicle is probably a more practical and affordable choice.

One of the easiest ways to improve your fuel efficiency is to observe the speed limit. Aggressive driving such as speeding, rapid accelerations and heavy braking reduces your gas mileage. Staying within speed limits and avoiding aggressive driving can improve your gas mileage by up to 33% at lower speeds and 5% at higher speeds.

Another tip is to avoid excessive idling. Idling reduces your gas mileage, so avoid it when possible. If you have an automatic car, turn off the engine instead of idling for more than a few seconds. In colder weather, idling is necessary to warm up the vehicle, but do so only for 30 seconds to 1 minute—any longer wastes fuel. Once the vehicle is warmed up, turn off the engine if stopped for more than a few seconds.

Keeping your engine properly tuned up can improve your gas mileage by an average of 4 percent. Fixing a serious maintenance problem can improve your mileage by up to 40 percent. Follow the recommended maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual for tune-ups and oil changes. Be sure to replace air filters and fuel filters as recommended.

Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate tires to the proper pressure. Under-inflated tires can lower gas mileage by 0.3% for every 1 PSI drop in pressure of all four tires. Properly inflated tires are safer and last longer, too.

Avoid excessive cargo weight. An extra 100 pounds in your vehicle could reduce your gas mileage by up to 2 percent. Remove unnecessary items from your trunk or cargo area.

Combine errands into one trip. Several short trips taken from a cold start can use twice as much fuel as a longer, multi-purpose trip covering the same distance when the engine is warm.

Avoid excessive idling. Idling reduces your gas mileage, so avoid it when possible. If you have an automatic car, turn off the engine instead of idling for more than a few seconds. In colder weather, idling is necessary to warm up the vehicle, but do so only for 30 seconds to 1 minute—any longer wastes fuel.

Observe the speed limit. Aggressive driving such as speeding, rapid accelerations and heavy braking reduces your gas mileage. Staying within speed limits and avoiding aggressive driving can improve your gas mileage by up to 33% at lower speeds and 5% at higher speeds.

Another way to improve your gas mileage is to avoid excessive engine load. This means avoiding the use of electrical accessories like air conditioning when they are not needed. Only use AC when the interior temperature becomes uncomfortable.

Use cruise control for highway driving. Cruise control can help you maintain a constant speed and improve your gas mileage. However, do not use cruise control on hilly or winding roads where you need to frequently change speeds.

Avoid excessive idling. Idling reduces your gas mileage, so avoid it when possible. If you have an automatic car, turn off the engine instead of idling for more than a few seconds. In colder weather, idling is necessary to warm up the vehicle, but do so only for 30 seconds to 1 minute—any longer wastes fuel.

Remove excess weight. An extra 100 pounds in your vehicle could reduce your gas mileage by up to 2 percent. Remove unnecessary items from your trunk or cargo area.

Combine errands into one trip. Several short trips taken from a cold start can use twice as much fuel as a longer, multi-purpose trip covering the same distance when the engine is warm.

Observe the speed limit. Aggressive driving such as speeding, rapid accelerations and heavy braking reduces your gas mileage. Staying within speed limits and avoiding aggressive driving can improve your gas mileage by up to 33% at lower speeds and 5% at higher speeds.

Properly inflated tires are safer and improve your gas mileage by up to 3.3 percent. Under-inflated tires can lower gas mileage by 0.3% for every 1 PSI drop in pressure of all four tires. Inflate tires to the proper pressure listed in your owner’s manual or on the tire placard located in the driver’s side door jamb or fuel door.

Keeping your engine properly tuned up can improve your gas mileage by an average of 4 percent. Follow the recommended maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual for tune-ups and oil changes. Be sure to replace air filters and fuel filters as recommended. Fixing a serious maintenance problem can improve your mileage by up to 40 percent.

Avoid excessive idling. Idling reduces your gas mileage, so avoid it when possible. If you have an automatic car, turn off the engine instead of idling for more than a few seconds. In colder weather, idling is necessary to warm up the vehicle, but do so only for 30 seconds to 1 minute—any longer wastes fuel.

Vehicle safety is one of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a new car. Modern vehicles offer an array of advanced safety features designed to help avoid accidents and minimize injuries in the event of a crash. Here are some of the key safety technologies available and what to look for in your next vehicle.

Anti-lock braking systems (ABS) have been standard on vehicles for over a decade. ABS works by preventing the wheels from locking up during hard braking, allowing drivers to maintain control of the vehicle. All new vehicles are required to have ABS, so any recent model will have this technology.

Traction control works with ABS by detecting wheel spin during acceleration and braking the spinning wheel to maintain grip. This is especially useful when driving on slippery roads. Like ABS, traction control has become standard on all new vehicles.

Stability control helps prevent skidding by detecting loss of control and automatically braking individual wheels to keep the vehicle on its intended path. Stability control has been proven to reduce the risk of fatal single-vehicle crashes by up to 50 percent. Ensure any vehicle you’re considering has a stability control system.

Emergency brake assist detects when a driver slams on the brakes and instantly applies maximum braking force. This can reduce stopping distances by up to 45 percent compared to manual braking. Emergency brake assist works with ABS and stability control to provide enhanced emergency braking capabilities.

Forward collision warning uses radar to detect impending collisions with vehicles and objects ahead. An audible alert warns the driver to take action to avoid or mitigate a crash. More advanced forward collision mitigation systems can apply the brakes automatically if the driver does not respond in time. These systems can significantly reduce front-to-rear crashes.

Lane departure warning uses cameras to monitor lane markings and alerts drivers if they drift out of their lane without signaling. Some systems provide steering input to gently guide the vehicle back into the proper lane. Lane departure warning is especially useful for preventing drowsy or distracted driving.

Blind spot monitoring uses radar or cameras to detect vehicles in adjacent lanes that may not be visible in the side mirrors. An alert, such as a light on the mirror, warns the driver not to change lanes. Blind spot monitoring is useful for busy highways and helps prevent sideswipe collisions.

Rear cross traffic alert warns drivers of approaching vehicles when backing up. Sensors detect vehicles moving behind the vehicle and audibly alert the driver. This feature is ideal for parking lots and other areas with limited visibility.

Pedestrian detection uses cameras and radar to detect people walking near or crossing in front of the vehicle. An audible and visual alert warns the driver to take action to avoid hitting pedestrians. More advanced systems can brake automatically if the driver does not respond in time. Pedestrian detection has the potential to save thousands of lives each year.

With so many advanced safety features now available, there’s no reason to settle for a vehicle without the latest life-saving technology. When shopping for your next vehicle, be sure to consider your safety needs and look for a model with as many of the features described here as possible. Your life could depend on it.

There are plenty of reliable used cars that can be had for under $10,000. While these older vehicles may lack some of the advanced features and styling of newer models, a well-maintained used car can provide many years of faithful service without the hefty price tag of a new vehicle. Here are some of the best used cars under $10,000 based on reliability, fuel efficiency, and affordability.

The Toyota Camry is one of the most reliable and dependable sedans on the road. Models from the early to mid-2000s with around 100,000 miles can easily be found for under $10,000. The Camry is renowned for its solid build quality, comfortable ride, and excellent fuel economy. For those wanting an even more affordable option, the Corolla is also a great choice with a reputation for extreme reliability and longevity.

For those needing an SUV but still wanting dependability, the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 from the mid-2000s are fantastic options under $10,000. These compact SUVs offer a versatile interior, solid performance, and the durability of a Honda or Toyota product. They also provide relatively good gas mileage for an SUV.

If you’re looking for reliability on a budget, it’s hard to beat a Ford Crown Victoria or Mercury Grand Marquis. These full-size sedans were produced largely unchanged for decades and are renowned for their near indestructibility. While not the most stylish or fuel-efficient vehicles, their roomy interiors and proven V8 powertrains can provide hundreds of thousands of miles of trouble-free driving.

For maximum affordability and dependability, a compact or midsize sedan from Hyundai, Kia or Mazda from the mid to late 2000s is an excellent choice. Vehicles like the Hyundai Elantra, Kia Optima and Mazda6 were well-built, attractively styled and can now be found for under $5,000 with reasonable mileage. These brands upped their game significantly in the 2000s, so you can get a lot of car for the money.

In summary, if you want a reliable used car for under $10,000, you can’t go wrong with a Toyota Camry, Honda CR-V, Ford Crown Victoria or a sedan from Hyundai or Mazda. Do some research on any model you’re interested in to check for potential trouble spots. Get a vehicle history report. Have a trusted mechanic thoroughly inspect any car you’re serious about. While these vehicles may be used, with some diligence you can find an affordable and dependable ride.

Self-driving cars are no longer a futuristic fantasy. They are already on roads in several parts of the world, and many experts predict they will transform transportation in the coming decades. While fully autonomous vehicles may be some years away, semi-autonomous features are already becoming common in new cars. Over time, self-driving technology is likely to make driving safer, reduce traffic and parking hassles, and provide mobility for all.

The future is exciting, but the transition will be complex. There are still many technical and regulatory challenges to overcome before self-driving cars become mainstream. For one, the sensors and software powering the vehicles must be extremely reliable to ensure safety in all conditions. Governments also need to develop regulations around safety, liability and other issues. Still, progress is moving quickly. Many automakers aim to release fully self-driving cars within 5 to 10 years.

As the technology improves, self-driving cars will likely phase in gradually. We may first see them in controlled environments like college campuses, retirement communities or city centers. Private ridesharing fleets from companies like Uber or Lyft could start using them to transport passengers in these areas. Over time, individuals may be able to own their own self-driving car. But for now, cost and technology constraints suggest that ridesharing and fleet ownership may dominate initially.

The benefits of self-driving cars are substantial. They can reduce the over 1 million deaths each year globally caused by human error in driving. For elderly, disabled or vision-impaired people, self-driving cars could provide new independence and mobility. The technology can also decrease traffic and the need for parking lots in cities. And commuters may reclaim time lost behind the wheel.

However, the transition will be complex. Many technical and regulatory challenges remain before self-driving cars become mainstream. The sensors and software must be extremely reliable to ensure safety in all conditions. Governments need to develop regulations around safety, liability and other issues. There will also be economic disruptions, like job losses for drivers, that societies must consider.

Still, self-driving cars could be a boon for the environment by reducing emissions from inefficient human driving and traffic. The vehicles can travel more efficiently, and some may even be electric. Fewer traffic accidents will also decrease fuel use from traffic congestion. Over time, self-driving cars may change how we design cities by reducing the need for parking lots.

While predictions vary, most experts estimate that fully self-driving cars could become commercially available between 2020 and 2025. The future is coming, but how quickly self-driving cars transform our roads will depend on how fast technology, regulation and social acceptance evolve. One thing is clear: self-driving cars will soon shift transportation as we know it into a new gear. The road ahead promises to be an exciting one. What started as science fiction is now just on the horizon—and about to change our lives, communities and planet in fascinating ways. The future of transportation is autonomous, electric and shared—and it’s closer than you think.

Leasing a car vs buying one outright is a big financial decision. There are pros and cons to both options, so you’ll want to consider your needs and priorities to determine what makes the most sense for your situation.

When you lease a car, you’re essentially renting it for a fixed period of time, typically two to four years. You’ll make monthly payments during the lease term, but you won’t own the vehicle at the end of the lease. The biggest benefit of leasing is lower monthly payments since you’re only paying for the depreciation of the vehicle during the time you have it, not the total purchase price. Leasing also allows you to drive a new car every few years with the latest features and technology.

However, leasing means you’ll never build any equity in the vehicle. Once the lease is over, you’ll need to lease another vehicle or purchase one. Lease terms also typically limit the number of miles you can drive to 12,000 to 15,000 per year. Going over the mileage limit results in hefty charges. Leasing also requires excellent credit to get approved and often a sizable down payment.

When you purchase a vehicle, you own it outright once you pay off your auto loan. Monthly payments are usually higher than leasing because you’re paying interest on the total purchase price of the vehicle. However, once it’s paid off, you have an asset that’s yours to keep as long as you like or trade in for another vehicle. You can drive as many miles as you want without penalties.

Another benefit of buying is that your payments stay the same for the life of the loan. With a lease, payments typically go up slightly each year. At the end of an auto loan, the vehicle is yours free and clear. You can sell it for cash, trade it in for another vehicle, or keep driving it as long as it’s reliable. For some, building equity in a vehicle and the stability of fixed payments make buying more appealing than leasing.

In the end, you need to weigh all these factors and determine if the lower payments and opportunity to drive a new vehicle every few years with a lease outweigh the benefits of building equity and owning your vehicle outright by purchasing it. Think about your budget, how long you typically keep a vehicle, annual mileage, and your priorities to make the choice that fits your needs best.