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.

Parting ways with anything you have owned for a long time can be devastating, including your car. But there comes a time when the car is no longer working, and you may have to consider replacing it. However, the common problem is determining if buying a new car is needed or if it only needs repairs. Therefore, here are seven signs to tell you if it’s time for a new car. Constant overheating A vehicle’s engine will overheat when it is pushed to the limit or when the automobile is on the road for a long time. However, if it heats up without you doing these two things, it might need an expert’s insight. An overheating vehicle may lead to severe damage, including fires, if it is not fixed in time. Sometimes the problem may not even be solvable, in which case, you ought to consider upgrading to a new car. Higher repair costs As a car gets old, the cost of repairs also starts to rise. Spending on tires, brake pads, and other elements like oil replacements after a certain amount of miles is normal. However, a problem may persist no matter how much you spend on a repair.

Driving is an activity that you get better at by doing it regularly. And it’s quite common to make small mistakes during the learning phase. But once you receive the driver’s license, it’s also up to you to ensure proper driving etiquette for city and highway conditions by following the rules. One small mistake or lapse of attention can result in devastating consequences. So, pay attention to these common mistakes to avoid any mishaps.  Not wearing a seatbelt Seatbelts save lives! No matter how uncomfortable or tight the belt feels, it is absolutely necessary to wear it for both passenger and driver. All states mandate it by law and impose hefty fines for drivers caught without a belt. Ignoring speed limits Speeding is one of the most common reasons new drivers get a ticket. Speed zones change when you drive on different roads, and it is important to pay attention to the signs. It is enough to get a ticket even if you are going just a few miles over the limit. It’s important to also pay attention to the speedometer while adjusting the speed unless your vehicle has an auto cruise mode that adjusts the throttle and braking response accordingly.

Buying and maintaining a car is a huge responsibility that cannot be taken lightly. In addition to obtaining insurance and proper documentation, there are simple tips and tricks to ensure your vehicle remains well-maintained. This includes driving it properly, keeping the interior clean, maintaining engine efficiency, and more. Here are some ways to take care of your car or truck, ensuring it stays in good condition for a prolonged period. Drive with care Driving carefully means driving safely on the road and taking care of your car while driving. Do not overburden the engine by racing it during the start-up, even if it is cold outside. Always be gentle and follow the correct instructions. Make sure to accelerate slowly when starting the drive, which helps keep the engine less worn out. Also, when stopping at signals, keep the car gear neutral. Buy gas from a trusted source It is important to be cautious when choosing a gas station to fill up your car. There are some stations that do not regularly change their pump filters, which can lead to dirty gasoline that can harm your car’s engine. To avoid this, it is recommended to inquire with the gas station employee about their filter maintenance.

In recent years, small pickup trucks have gained much attention in the automotive market for their versatility, practicality, utility, maneuverability, and style. These go-to vehicles are compact yet mighty. They offer a compelling range of features that cater to the needs and preferences of many people in the country. Here are some of the best small pickup trucks from different brands that have stood the test of time and can be considered. Ford Maverick The Ford Maverick is a great pickup truck known for its affordability and everyday use. A key selling point of this five-seater cargo hauler is its compact size, which makes it easier to maneuver in urban environments and park in tight spaces. It offers a spacious and functional interior with practical storage solutions. The truck boasts fuel-efficient powertrains, achieving impressive city mileage between 22-40 MPG and highway figures of 28-33 MPG. With a starting price just over $22,000 and five available trims, it caters to various budgets and preferences. The Maverick’s composed handling makes it suitable for urban driving. It’s available in an optional 250-horsepower four-cylinder engine and AWD. Toyota Tacoma The Toyota Tacoma is a well-regarded small pickup truck known for its rugged reliability. It offers a choice of engines, including a potent V6 and a fuel-efficient four-cylinder, catering to various customers.

Trucks are lifelines for the supply chain industry, transporting goods long distances. It is estimated that as many as 13.5 million trucks have been registered nationwide. Moreover, with technological advancement, trucks double as luxurious vehicles for daily commutes and travel. Buying the right truck involves considering the brand, model, and individual specs. Based on more similar factors, here are some of the best trucks one can consider buying today: Ford Maverick This compact truck is easy to navigate and ideal for those looking for mini pickup trucks. The 2024 Ford Maverick has a standard 2-liter engine with four cylinders and is a front-wheel-drive vehicle; however, an all-wheel-drive and a fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain are available options. With a towing capacity of 4,000 pounds, the vehicle can handle up to 1,500 pounds of payload. It also has plush interiors, including a spacious backseat, storage bins and cubbies, and adjustable lumbar support for the front seats. The cherry on the cake is an 18-inch touchscreen infotainment system compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android. The 2024 Ford Maverick’s starting price is $24,995. Chevrolet Colorado The Chevrolet Colorado boasts the best towing capacity among midsize pickup trucks and the availability of a V6 engine. As such, all Colorados consist of turbocharged 2.7-liter inline four-engine cylinders and eight-speed automatic transmission, with 237 hp for the WT and LT base models.

Trucks are widely known for their tough exterior and are mostly used for hauling and towing heavy cargo. However, many manufacturers have started designing trucks that are reliable, comfortable, and safe for families. These trucks also have top-rated safety features, making them perfect for daily commutes, family road trips, or hauling goods. With their family-friendly attributes, these trucks have become an excellent choice for families who desire a vehicle that meets their overall needs. Chevrolet Silverado 1500 The 2023 Silverado 1500 is a crew cab pickup truck that has achieved one of the highest overall safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It has received top ratings for various safety tests, including side-impact, front-impact, and rollover tests. As a result, it has become a popular choice for families looking for a safe truck. The Silverado 1500 comes with several standard safety features, such as active driver assist, automatic emergency braking, a lane-keeping system, and automatic high beams. Prices for this Chevrolet pickup truck start from around $30,400 and can go up to $45,600, depending on the trim level. Ford F-150 The Ford F-150 is a family-friendly truck that is well-known for its robust safety features. Its popular variants – the Crew (SuperCrew) and extended Cab (SuperCab) – have received good ratings in crash tests.

A pickup truck is an ideal investment for those who need large towing capacity and cargo beds in their vehicles. If buying a truck, one should start by shortlisting options with all the necessary features, a good resale value, and low maintenance requirements. Luckily, RAM trucks are known for offering a range of handy features along with excellent durability and performance. Nevertheless, when choosing a RAM truck, one should consider the following things: 1. Reviews Vehicle reviews are a key factor to consider when buying a vehicle. When buying a new RAM truck, one can find buyer reviews on third-party auto websites. If the company has introduced an upgraded model, one should check if it addresses the problems in the older models. If one is opting for a pre-owned RAM truck, then they should check the vehicle history by reviewing its repair and maintenance records and even unpaid tickets, if any. Prior research can help one avoid unwanted surprises in the future. 2. Intended use RAM offers wide-ranging options that cater to different needs. Before selecting a truck, one should determine the intended use of the vehicle. For instance, one may want a rugged truck that will offer ample towing capacity and off-roading convenience.

An individual might be enthusiastic about their first car purchase or an upgrade but have budget constraints that may obstruct them from getting one. In this situation, the best way to get the most for their money is to invest in a pre-owned automobile. While the features are the same as compared to a new model, the price is far lower. However, picking a second-hand car might be tricky, and one should look for durable options. 2022 Honda Accord Those interested in a mid-size sedan should consider investing in a pre-owned Honda Sedan. One could opt for the top-trim older models for a decent price. For instance, dealerships may offer the 2022 Honda Accord Sport for about $24,000. The Accord is one of Honda’s most feature-rich offerings, with ample room for passengers and luggage. The vehicle also offers a sturdy on-road experience to give the driver more confidence behind the wheel. 2013 Mazda 3 The 2013 Mazda 3 was one of the most impressive cards during its launch and is still in demand in the used car market. Various trims featured a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that offered smooth and sufficient performance. Customers can also look for pre-owned models with the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine for added power.

Off-roading and embarking on new adventures has become synonymous with Jeep. Known for its strong, sturdy cars that tackle just about any terrain, the brand has a top-notch line-up of truly versatile SUVs that can be difficult to choose from. There’s nothing to worry about, though! To help customers through this dilemma, here’s a list of the top seven Jeeps to consider buying in 2024, along with features that make them stand out! Jeep Grand Wagoneer The Jeep Grand Wagoneer is one of the most luxurious off-road vehicles on the market right now. In addition to its sleek looks, it offers quick acceleration and a solid towing capacity. As Jeep’s poshest offering, this full-size SUV leaves no stone unturned. Starting at a base MSRP of $93.945, the 2024 Jeep Grand Wagoneer is plush with features like customizable ambient interior lighting, a head-up display, a camera-fed rearview mirror, a rear-seat monitoring system, leather seats, and a whole lot more. Passengers are also assured of an ultra-comfortable and quiet ride with the Grand Wagoneer. However, given its sheer size, maneuverability can be a bit of a hassle for some. Jeep Wagoneer For buyers who don’t want to splurge on the Grand Wagoneer, the 2024 Jeep Wagoneer may be a better choice.

Nowadays, many people prefer using SUVs even to commute locally because these cars are sturdy and powerful. Also, modern SUVs are loaded with navigation and safety features, which help drivers maneuver their way through traffic and rough roads effortlessly. But buying an SUV is a big decision, so one needs to consider many different aspects while zeroing in on a brand, model, and trim. So, here are some mistakes to avoid when buying an SUV: Overlooking size requirements Size requirements may differ based on factors such as family size and how frequently one travels (to evaluate cargo space requirements). Compact SUVs accommodate only three to four passengers, while the midsize ones can easily accommodate up to seven passengers. Large-sized ones, on the other hand, have space for even more people. Compact SUVs are the most economical option for people with small families who do not travel much. However, those with larger families or more need for cargo space may need to consider midsize or large SUVs. Not setting a definite budget range There are many SUVs with cutting-edge features, so it may be tempting to go over budget and buy a car that one doesn’t require. For this reason, it is essential to set a definite budget range and stick to it so that one isn’t tempted to buy a car whose price exceeds this range.