A long drive asks more of a car than months of short trips: hours at highway speed, heavy loads, heat or cold, and roads far from your usual mechanic. A check a week before you leave gives you time to fix anything it turns up. A week before If a service is almost due, have … Read more
New cars change faster than ever, mostly through software. Some of the new features genuinely make driving easier; others are expensive options you will rarely use. Knowing which is which helps you choose the right car and trim. Phone integration Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now available on almost every new car, and wireless … Read more
Snow and ice change everything about how a car behaves. Braking distances can be several times longer, and the margin for error almost disappears. Most winter crashes happen because drivers keep their summer habits. Before you set off Clear all the snow and ice from the car, not just a hole in the windshield: windows, … Read more
The best car seat is the one that fits your child, fits your car and is installed correctly every time. Price and brand matter much less than those three things. The guidance below follows US recommendations; other countries use similar principles under different standards. The stages Rear-facing seats are for babies and toddlers. Keep your … Read more
A smartphone can replace a stack of maps, a logbook and a few phone calls. The apps below are well-established and widely used; most work with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, which display them on the car’s screen. Navigation and traffic Google Maps is the default for many drivers, with reliable live traffic, lane guidance … Read more
Yes, in most cases you can bring one lighter on a plane, but only in the cabin, and not every type of lighter is allowed. The rules below are those of the US TSA and FAA; most other countries follow similar international rules, though airlines can be stricter. The short answer The TSA’s lighters page … Read more
