Buying a new car is fun, but you must evaluate various factors before choosing a brand and model. This includes vital safety features that ensure the driver and passengers remain safe on the road. Thanks to technological advancements, many SUVs now have pedestrian detection, collision warning, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and other systems that ensure maximum safety. Here is a list of the safest SUVs of 2023 to consider and their features. Ford Bronco Sport One of the safest SUVs in the market, the Ford Bronco Sport stands at the top. This crossover SUV comes loaded with numerous safety features and has received stellar ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Its notable safety features are automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, and rear parking sensors. Furthermore, the evasive steering assist feature rounds out the car’s crash-prevention abilities. Subaru Ascent Subaru has long been known for manufacturing safe vehicles. The Subaru Ascent has scored a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and received the Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS. All Subaru Ascent models have standard safety features like automatic emergency braking, lane centering, lane-keep assist, steering-sensitive headlights, and a rear-seat reminder system.

E-bikes are geared bicycles powered by an electric motor to enhance the vehicle’s speed and performance. These bikes are getting increasingly popular since they can be pedaled as regular bicycles and switched to an electric driving mode whenever necessary. This feature makes it an ideal vehicle for casual excursions, exercising, as well as commuting. But with various e-bike sizes and features available, one can choose the wrong one without proper research.  Here are some common mistakes to avoid for first-timers. Overlooking the e-bike specifications and classes Electric bikes are primarily classified based on their top speed and throttle availability. Class 1 bikes get powered only by peddling and boast a top speed of 20mph. Class 2 types are equipped with a throttle so that the bike can move with the touch of a button. Class 2 e-bikes come with a 20 mph top speed as well. On the other hand, Class 3 e-bikes do not have a throttle, but their top speed goes up to 28mph. This also means that Class 3 types are not allowed on bike paths. So, knowing these options is important to buy a bike that suits one’s needs. Apart from this, understanding safety specifications like hydraulic disc brakes is also crucial to make a sound decision.

Pickup trucks are vehicles widely preferred by businesses thanks to their hauling and towing capabilities. Many leading automakers have designed a dizzying variety of pickup trucks equipped with modern technology. However, maintaining this vehicle can be a costly affair if not done right. Truck drivers can make certain rookie mistakes while on the road at the start of their careers. Since truck driving demands maximum concentration, such mistakes can cost them more. Overloading the cargo Pickup trucks come with varying cargo or load capacities. Some can haul one ton, some half a ton, while some trucks carry three-quarters of a ton. Ignoring the specified cargo capacity and overloading the vehicle causes stress on the truck’s mechanical components like suspension, brakes, and metal built. It also reduces the driver’s stopping power and may lead to tire blowouts. Those unaware of the load capacity can refer to the factory sticker on the vehicle’s body or look up the model details on the automaker’s website. Not distributing cargo weight evenly The pickup truck may lose balance if the cargo weight is not distributed uniformly throughout the trailer, especially during steep turns. Moreover, problems including tyre, wheel, axle, and structural failure can result from unequal weight distribution.

Buying an electric vehicle can be overwhelming. There are many factors to consider, like which brands to trust, how different driving an electric car will be, and what limitations you will be committing to in the long term. All these queries must be addressed with thorough research and detailed conversation with an expert. In addition, it is crucial to avoid the common mistakes people make while buying an electric vehicle. Being unaware of incentives Buying an electric car is economical and environment-friendly, but did you know that the government also applauds you for this decision? The federal government offers a clean vehicle tax credit of up to $7,500 on the purchase of eligible electric cars. This move has encouraged many to buy electric vehicles, increasing their demand. However, the incentive usually applies to the first couple thousand electric vehicles a manufacturer sells. So, you will have to research and select a reliable manufacturer that has not exceeded this sales figure. Besides benefiting from the federal tax credit, check if your state offers a savings program for electric car buyers. Not knowing the range Before heading to the dealership, you should ask yourself why you need the electric vehicle. Is it just for quick shopping trips or daily commutes?

Recreational vehicles (RVs) and travel trailers provide a comfortable living arrangement on a road trip. But since they are more expensive than traditional vehicles, you must research well before spending your hard-earned money. Unfortunately, many people hurry their purchase and end up with something that does not fit their needs. This post lists a few serious mistakes to avoid when buying an RV or trailer so that you enjoy the open roads worry-free. Ignoring used models While purchasing a brand-new vehicle provides a fulfilling experience, do not brush aside used models without giving them a thought. A used RV may require additional maintenance, cosmetic upgrades, and extra refurbishment time, but you will pay much less than a new RV and save on insurance costs. Not inspecting the vehicle The salespeople at a dealership might coax you into signing up for a particular RV by describing its best features. But do not finalize the deal unless you have checked the vehicle thoroughly, especially in the case of a used model. You do not want to spend big money on an RV only to discover piping leaks after a few months of use. Not considering your needs Buy an RV only after understanding why you need it.

A car is a significant investment, so you must pay attention to its maintenance to ensure it runs smoothly for years. Moreover, the older a car gets, the more upkeep, care, and maintenance it requires. Otherwise, you may have to shell out more for repairs and damages. So, one must ensure they regularly get their car checked by a professional and know these common car maintenance mistakes to steer clear of. Forgetting to check the tire pressure Most car owners think the purpose of checking tire pressure is to avoid flat tires. While this is a reason enough, looking at the fuel economy is also essential. When the tires lack air, the car will consume far more gas than necessary. So avoid this maintenance mistake, and check whether the tires’ air pressure is optimal with a fuel gauge. The pressure should be as indicated in the owner’s manual. Another common mistake is forgetting to do tire rotation regularly. This will help the tires last longer. Forgetting to do oil changes In the case of a new car, there is minimal need for oil changes. So most new car owners ignore this aspect during regular car maintenance. However, even a new car requires engine oil changes every 8,000 to 10,000 miles.

None of the working parts of a vehicle, including the engine, can last an eternity. But you can extend the life of an engine by regularly changing the oil. This helps keep the parts of the engine lubricated, allowing the vehicle to perform optimally. However, if key steps are overlooked while changing the oil, the engine and its components can be damaged. So, here are a few mistakes to avoid making while replacing engine oil: Forgetting to warm up the engine Oil cannot flow well at a cold temperature, so you may not be able to drain out all of it if the engine is not warmed up first. Missing this step may result in deposits in the engine parts, damaging the components. So, before draining the engine oil, start the vehicle and let it rev for about 5–10 minutes. Doing so will heat the oil, which may help you drain most of it easily. Not changing the oil filter The oil filter is responsible for screening contaminants from entering the engine. So not changing the filter for a long time could lead to poor filtration and flow of engine oil, leading to internal damage. While not changing the oil filter may save you a couple of bucks today, a damaged engine will cost much more to fix in the future.

For individuals planning to buy a pre-owned truck, figuring out a financing option might seem like a daunting task. However, it is important to understand the array of financing options to make a well-informed decision that aligns with their budget and financial objectives. This comprehensive guide aims to lead them through the diverse pre-owned truck financing avenues, providing valuable insights to help secure the most suitable deal. 1. Traditional auto loans Potential buyers often turn to traditional auto loans, which involve borrowing a lump sum from a financial institution, such as a bank or credit union, and repaying it with interest over a specified term. These loans usually offer competitive interest rates, especially for borrowers with favorable credit scores. However, they may necessitate a down payment and a comprehensive credit evaluation. 2. Dealership financing Many dealerships extend in-house financing options for pre-owned vehicles, permitting buyers to secure a loan directly from the dealership. While this is convenient, it’s important to know that dealership financing might come with higher interest rates than loans from traditional lenders. It’s imperative to meticulously scrutinize the terms and conditions, including any hidden fees or additional costs. 3. Online lenders Online lenders have gained popularity due to their convenience and competitive rates.

Owning a secondhand car can be a practical financial move, especially if one could get it for less than $1,000. A pre-owned high-performance car at that price and in good condition is a steal deal. Here, one can use a variety of strategies to find cheap used cars nearby and score great deals on their purchase. To help one get started, here are five ways to find pre-owned, affordable, and reliable vehicles near them: Check classified ads One of the best ways to find cheap used cars nearby is through online classified ads on dedicated websites posting local listings. Here, one can find specific vehicles in their area using filters to narrow down options based on make, model, price range, and distance. For instance, one could easily utilize the “price filter” to show results for cars selling for under $1,000 in their area. Online classifieds provide a wide range of choices, helping buyers quickly identify affordable options without leaving the comfort of their homes. Visit local dealerships While local dealerships often feature newer models, many also have used cars available. Further, some dealers may offer certified pre-owned vehicles or older models at competitive prices. So, one could check dealership websites or visit in person to explore these options and even take advantage of financing options if needed.

Knowing how to change a car’s tire is an important life skill. One may never know when it may prove helpful in an emergency. Although one may dial for assistance, cellular services are not always reliable where one may be or what the weather is—so knowing how to fix a flat tire may help significantly. However, it is essential to be aware of some common mistakes to avoid when changing a flat tire, such as: Not placing the jack in a safe spot It’s essential to keep the car jack in a safe place and not put it anywhere in the vehicle. Most cars have a specific spot underneath where the jack should be positioned, such as a hole near the wheel, a groove, or a depression. If the car doesn’t have a designated spot, the jack must be placed within the car’s frame. To locate the designated spot, lie on the ground and look at the car’s underside. Once you find the spot, place the jack there and slowly raise it until it can safely bear the entire weight of the car. Leaving the lugs loose Once the tire is changed and the lugs are replaced, lower down the car using the jack.

Pickup trucks are known for their durability and robust design. They offer ample cargo space and can tow trailers and heavy loads easily. One can purchase them for both work and leisure. While pickup trucks have unique advantages, drivers often make errors that compromise safety and vehicle performance. Here are a few common rookie mistakes drivers should avoid to prolong the life of their truck and stay protected on the road. Overloading the truck This is among the most common mistakes rookie drivers should avoid. Overestimating the truck’s payload capacity and transporting too much weight can result in several problems. For instance, an overloaded cargo bed can affect the vehicle’s stability and compromise braking efficiency. It can also accelerate the wear and tear of the automobile’s critical components, including the suspension system and tires. Ignoring the towing capacity Although pickup trucks are known for superior towing capabilities, one must adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines when towing. Ignoring their recommendations can put one in risky situations, like losing load control, potentially causing accidents and leading to expensive repairs. Securing the cargo poorly If loose or improperly secured, items in the truck bed can shift during sudden stops or sharp turns. This can pose significant dangers not only to one’s pickup truck but also to nearby vehicles and bystanders on the road.