Four important steps to take before purchasing your next vehicle

Despite the economic hardships the auto industry has faced, financing a vehicle is still possible. Once you've researched reviews and valuations, and decided on the vehicle you want to buy, consider these four tips.

Spring into action this car care season

As Americans start to clean up their act, they often focus on cleaning and maintenance tasks essential to keeping their homes in good repair. However, they often forget to take the same care with their vehicles. Now is the best time to prepare for warmer weather and the different road conditions that go with it.

Ten tips to keep teens safe behind the wheel

Waiting for a teen driver to return home safely probably causes the most anxiety and lost sleep for parents. And with good reason - car accidents are the leading cause of death among teenagers, accounting for 35 percent of all fatalities among young people 15 to 20 years old, according to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration.

Hot wheels: The top five muscle cars of summer

Baseball, barbecue, pool parties - when you're tallying ways to celebrate summer, don't overlook one uniquely American invention that some devotees say is the epitome of summer fun - the muscle car.

Car safety: dealing with blind spots

With SUVs, trucks and large cars growing in size, backing up can pose a serious problem for drivers. Even the most accomplished driver can't see blind spots, which can lead to costly repairs or serious injury. A back-up sensor is a small investment to protect your car and those around you.

On the road: do-it-yourself moving tips

Millions of Americans take on the task of moving every year, whether it's for a job opportunity, to be closer to family, or to simply try out living in a new place. Whatever the reason for your move, you can make the task more pleasant by planning ahead and taking advantage of resources designed to make moving easier.

Take a lesson in history when buying a used car

You may have heard about vehicle history reports and you may already know that they are a good idea, but are they really worth the money? And once you buy one, how can you be sure you understand all the information on it?

How to have a safe and fun summer road trip

A summer road trip is a great opportunity for those once-in-a-lifetime experiences and a great way to make memories with your friends and family. A little planning and preparation will make your road trip even better. Here are some tips that can be essential to summer road trip success.

Why join a roadside rescue service?

Automobile owners know that it's not a matter of if something will go wrong, but a matter of when. But wouldn't it be nice to know that the next time your car won't start or you get a flat, help is on the way? That's where a roadside rescue service comes in.

Technology tips for traveling with tots

Traveling with children can sometimes seem like a challenge, even for the most patient parents. Long stretches in car or airplane seats can easily leave kids bored and hungry. Packing plenty of snacks can fill the hunger need, but what's a parent to do when the Goldfish are all gone? Technology is a great tool to keep kids entertained while traveling.

Five tips for maintaining your motorcycle or ATV

Americans have purchased more than 15 million all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and motorcycles over the past 10 years. Along with the thrill of the ride, or the convenience of chores made easy, comes the responsibility of maintaining these machines.

What you need to know about auto insurance

Life is full of things you have to do, whether you like it or not. One of them is to purchase auto insurance if you own and drive a car.

How to pick the right car for a young driver

Getting a brand new car on their 16th birthday is every teen's dream, but many parents may have mixed feelings. For most folks, getting that first car for a new driver is not as easy as simply heading to the car dealer and picking the best-looking one.

Attention teen drivers, turn off that cell phone

A lot of teenagers yearn for the day when they will turn 16. It's the magic age when they get the license to drive. But are they ready for it?

How your tires can save you money: the secrets of low rolling resistance

In the world of tires, "low rolling resistance" is a lot like health care. It's a topic that affects nearly all adults, but the majority of consumers are not very well versed about the subject.

The 4-1-1 on how auto insurance premiums are calculated

Whether you've been paying your own auto insurance premiums for decades, or are a new driver about to take them over from your parents for the first time, you may be wondering how premiums are calculated.

Preparing your vehicle for the long haul

Warm sunny days mean vacations or weekend getaways, and many families take to the road with a camper in tow. Whether you are towing a camper, trailer or boat - regardless of the size - it means you will want to take steps to make sure the vehicle you are using for towing is ready for the haul.

Save money, stay safe: Keep tires properly inflated

Gas is pretty expensive so you certainly don't want to waste it. The U.S. Department of Energy says that properly inflated tires can improve fuel economy by 3.3 percent and help you save 9 cents per gallon at the pump. Here is some advice to help ensure your tires stay in top shape.

What kind of insurance do you need for a teen driver?

There is a time in every family when Mom and Dad come to the sudden realization that their child is growing up. For many, that is when their son or daughter is about to turn 16 and ready to start driving.

Tips for planning a last-minute family vacation

Whether it's the sudden need to get away or the last chance to escape before the kids head back to school, many families find themselves in a position to book a last-minute vacation. With the fluctuating economy wreaking havoc on the airline and hotel industries, there is now a greater chance of finding availability and bargains for savvy researchers.

What to do when you're ready to get rid of your old car

Many Americans are holding on to their vehicles longer, working hard to keep everything running smoothly with good upkeep and maintenance. In fact, 82 percent of Americans intend to keep their vehicle longer than originally planned due to the economy, a 2009 survey indicates. But situations are always changing, and if you've been waiting to get a new car for some time, you're probably ready to start shopping immediately. Have you thought about what you want to do with your old car?

Six driving safety tips for seniors

Remaining a safe driver in your 60s, 70s and beyond is entirely possible as long as careful thought is given to how capable and adaptable you are behind the wheel. Here are a few things to consider when evaluating your ability to remain on the road that may help keep you and others around you safe.

What you need to know to improve your vehicle's longevity

There are a number of car care considerations that can protect the performance and longevity of your vehicle, beginning with motor oil - your vehicle's life blood.

What you should know about credit before you go car shopping

Before you set foot on a dealer's lot or peruse the auto section of the newspaper, take these steps to ensure you're in a position of power when it comes time to negotiate your auto loan.

Don't be a multitasker when behind the wheel

America is the land of multitaskers. Admit it, you are among those who talk on the phone while putting away dishes or folding laundry, and eat breakfast and/or lunch on the go while traveling from one appointment to the next.

How to make your vehicle vacation ready

Despite gasoline prices, the old-fashioned auto vacation will once again be a popular choice for families looking for convenience and ready mobility. But with warmer weather come special automotive maintenance challenges -- extreme heat, humidity and heavy stop-and-go traffic can cause marginal systems to fail. Here are some tips for getting your vehicle ready for your vacation.

Gas-saving tips from the pros

In today's economy, consumers are more cost-conscious than ever. The following advice is from the pros at ASE, who note that these tips will not only save gasoline, they'll help extend the life of your vehicle.

Is your teen with diabetes hitting the road? Take these precautions

Any parent who's had a teen leave the house in the car alone for the first time knows that anxious feeling. But for parents of teens with diabetes, there are a few extra things they should make sure their child knows before they are handed the keys for the first time.

The key to a successful road trip - planning plenty of pit stops along the way

Think back to your childhood for a moment. Is there one family vacation that stands out from the rest?

How long does it take to erase a speeding ticket from your driving record?

Are you the type of driver who has a need for speed, and puts the pedal to the metal every time you get behind the wheel? If so, you're asking for trouble.

Many states are banning texting to improve driving safety

There's no disputing the fact that distracted driving is a huge problem in America. According to statistics gathered by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2008 nearly 6,000 people died and more than 500,000 others were injured in accidents caused by drivers who had their attention on something other than the road when they crashed.

Ditching your old car? Why donating benefits you

When you buy a new car, you probably tend to trade your old one in for a reduced price on the new vehicle, or advertise it for sale yourself. But if you have a charity you like to support, you could always turn your car into a tax-deductible donation and feel better as you support a non profit organization.

Five misconceptions about auto insurance

Hitting the open road is something most of us do every day. Handling an auto insurance claim is something none of us wants to do, but like it or not, may have to deal with one day.

Practical tips for keeping America's youth safe when behind the wheel

Today's teen drivers face an increasing number of risks and distractions, making safe driving habits more important than ever. At the same time, teen driving laws are evolving, and fewer public schools across the country can afford to offer drivers' education. Many community organizations and even large businesses have stepped in to proactively help teens learn the importance of practicing safe driving skills.

Celebrities take up the cause for distracted driving

Distracted driving is causing many crashes that result in injuries and fatalities. Celebrities are taking up the cause to raise awareness of the dangers of using cell phones will driving.

Helpful hints: shopping for a car online

With a down economy and struggling domestic automakers, now may be the perfect time to consider investing in a new vehicle. Gone are the days when entire weekends were spent scouring newspaper ads, pacing through endless car lots and haggling with aggressive salesmen.