When your car needs work, should you take it to an independent shop or to the dealership? Is one better than the other? Here's what you should know.
Should you go to an independent mechanic or the dealership?
Winter driving: myths and facts
It’s with regret that I remind you all of the impending arrival of winter. While partially redeemed by the reintroduction of holiday cheer, eggnog, and ski season, the onset of Winter can be a tough pill to swallow for summer lovers like myself. And while the cold alone can be a downer, there’s one thing... Continue Reading →
Car Resolutions for 2022
Wait... how did it get to be almost 2022? Weren't we supposed to have flying cars by now? We might have a lot of tech that George Jetson would envy, but we're still riding on four tires. And we're almost at the start of another new year. So along with our resolutions to work out... Continue Reading →
Dashboard warning lights: what do they mean?
Few things are as unsettling as the sudden illumination of one of those colorful little lights on our dash. Because that usually means trouble. But most of the time it’s hard to know what kind of trouble, exactly. On top of that, when it really comes down to it… how many of us actually know... Continue Reading →
Motor oil for your car: what you need to know
Motor oil is basically the lifeblood of your car’s engine. It serves as lubricant for all wearing surfaces, and without it, your engine will seize and be permanently damaged, if not destroyed. As important as oil is, equally important is the type of oil you use. There are several different types, and you have to... Continue Reading →
The Evolution of Engine Technology
For over 100 years we've used the combination of air, fuel, and spark to power cars, but the way that we bring these things together has evolved over several eras. In the early years, engines were oversized, underpowered, and crude compared to what we’re used to today. For example, Cadillac’s 1930s V16, a 7.4 liter... Continue Reading →
Transmission types explained
A transmission’s job is to use its different gears to keep your engine in whatever RPM range is optimal based on the driving conditions. But how does it work? Here's a little overview of the various types.
Does your car really need a tune-up? Probably not.
Me: “How was your morning?” Friend: “It was alright, just had to drop my car off for service.” Me, a curious car enthusiast: “Oh, what’s it in for?” Friend: “Just a tune-up.” Me: *facepalm* I’ve heard it far too many times: “all it needs is a tune-up.” Whether it be from friends, or in my... Continue Reading →
Engine types and their characteristics
Even with the recent uptick in popularity of electric vehicles, the vast majority of cars on the road still rely on the tried and true mixture of air, fire, fuel, and compression to give a car power. Simple as it may seem, the way that these four elements are combined can vary quite a bit... Continue Reading →
Breaking down different drive types: what’s best for you?
What's the difference between all wheel drive and 4-wheel drive? How do they drive differently from front-wheel drive, and rear-wheel drive? Here's a guide to which is best at what.