Take the tiny, unassuming slot on your gear shift, for instance. Tucked away in most cars, it’s so discreet that many drivers go years without noticing it. And even if you do spot it, chances are you’ll shrug and move onuntil you really need it.

Ahead, we’ll uncover the purpose of that oft-overlooked slot and explain why it’s a lifesaver hiding in plain sight.

What Is the Little Slot On My Gear Shift?

That little box resembling a tiny SD slot either to the left or right side of your gear shift is actually a compartment that houses the shift lock release button. In some cars, the button is not hidden in a compartment.

What Does the Shift Lock Release Button Do?

Cars with automatic transmissions come with shift lock, a safety feature that prevents drivers from shifting into a different gear unless the car is on and your foot is on the brake. While this feature is necessary to avoid unnecessary accidents, there’s a slight chance that it could also prevent someone from moving their car when it brakes down.

For example, if your car’s battery dies and you need to move it to be serviced, you wouldn’t be able to shift it into neutral and push the car without stepping on the brake. The shift lock release button solves this issue, as it allows you to override the shift lock feature to shift your vehicle into the desired gear.

How To Use the Shift Lock Release Button

Depending on your vehicle, the shift lock release may be activated with varying levels of ease.

If your shift lock release button isn’t hidden behind a compartment, you can simply press and hold the button down to activate it and shift your car into neutral. Once you’ve moved the car to the desired location, remember to shift it back into park using the same method.

However, if your shift lock release is hidden behind a compartment with a slot, the process is slightly more complicated:

• First, you’ll need a flat tool (like a key or a screwdriver) to remove the compartment’s lid, exposing the button. Simply press your tool into the slot and leverage it to lift the lid off the compartment.
• Once the compartment is removed, the shift release button will most likely be recessed inside the compartment. Use the same tool you used to remove the lid to compress and hold down the button.
• Once the vehicle is moved, use the same tool to compress the shift lock release and shift the car back into park before replacing the lid on the button’s compartment.

The post What Is the Little Slot Next to the Gear Shift In My Car? appeared first on Family Handyman.

Fortunately, there’s an easy hack that will prevent your windows from fogging up, and hey, we could all use one less thing to worry about in the mornings.

Dangers of a Foggy Window

A condensation-caked windshield can be dangerous. You should never try to drive with a foggy windshield since it impairs your vision. Your car’s defrost setting will take care of the issue, but if you’re running late, you do not want to have to deal with those extra minutes of waiting. For this hack to prevent your windshield from fogging up in the first place, you only need three things: a tube sock, some kitty litter and something to help you pour the litter into the sock.

“The idea is that the litter, designed to absorb cat urine, will absorb the moisture in your car that causes glass to fog up,” explains Roslyn McKenna, car insurance publisher for Finder. McKenna and her team tested out the trick, and found that it does indeed work. “During our test, the car windshield and windows didnt fog up at all,” she said.

Some types of kitty litter will work better than others. Look for non-clumping or crystal litters. They work better than traditional clumping clay or pellet litter, according to Mckenna’s testing. As for the socks, choose something with material that’s as high-wicking as possible. You can use a roll of tape, an empty paper towel roll, etc. to help put the litter into the sock.

How To Prevent Car Windows From Fogging

First, take your kitty litter and fill the sock up to about where your ankle would begin. Use the tape roll or empty paper towel tube stuffed into the sock to help pour in the litter without making a mess. Finally, tie if off at the top of the sock.If you prefer, you can stuff the whole thing into a second sock for extra strength.

Now that you have your sock stuffed with litter and tied off, place it on your car’s dashboard every time you park and leave your car. Your fog problems will be a thing of the past.

If you forget to put the sock in the window when you park and the window fogs up, try running the litter-filled sock along the windshield to get better results than your hand or a hand towel. Keep it in the car so that you remember to use it.

Expert sources

• Roslyn McKenna is the insurance manager at ValuePenguin and former car insurance publisher at Finder.

The post Here’s an Easy Hack To Prevent Your Windshield From Fogging Up appeared first on Family Handyman.

With over 50 years in the auto repair industry, the complaint I have heard thousands of times was, my car doesn’t start, but then I turn the key off, and then it starts right up on the second try. There are numerous reasons why this can happen. My first question would be, does the engine crank over like it’s trying to start, or does it seem as if the battery is dead, where the engine just clicks or makes no sound at all?

With help from a General Motors master technician and my years of firsthand experience, we’ll share the most probable reasons why your car starts (hopefully) on the second try.

Is a Car Starting on the Second Try Bad?

Yes, a car not starting on the first try, but the second, is bad. Ever since the introduction of computer-controlled fuel injection and electronic ignition systems, an internal combustion engine (ICE) even in the coldest weather should start within two or three seconds. In fact, vehicles with auto start-stop technology are designed to restart in less than a half-second. Depending on the reason (mechanical malfunction, fuel system, ignition system, or electrical system), even if the engine does quickly start on the second try, it means something is wrong and needs to be fixed.

Additionally, cranking an engine for long periods of time weakens the battery, causes premature wear to the starter motor, and can stress other systems, including increased wear on engine components.

Reasons a Car May Start on the Second Try

There are several causes why a car may start on the second try rather than the first. To diagnose, there are a whole series of questions that need to be answered to help narrow down the problem and determine the appropriate repair, including, but not limited to:

• Was the engine hot or cold?
• Did the car sit overnight?
• Was the Check Engine Light or other warning lights on?
• Does the car idle and run okay otherwise?

Sometimes, there are DIY fixes to this problem, but here is info you can discuss with your mechanic if you need to visit the pros.

Fuel system

According to General Motors master technician Dave Zemaitaitis, the most likely cause of a car starting on the second try could be issues with the fuel system, like “a weak fuel pump, a leaking fuel line pressure regulator valve or a fuel pump check valve will not hold pressure,” which “allows fuel to drain back into the [fuel] tank.”

Zemaitaitis suggests drivers “turn the key to the run position and listen if you can hear the fuel pump running.” This is referred to as the “two-second prime.” If you hear the pump running and your car starts on the second try, the fuel system is the most likely culprit. If your car has a pushbutton starter instead of a key, without your foot on the brake pedal, pushing the start/stop button will place your car into the “run” position.

Other fuel-related causes include a clogged or dirty fuel filter or excess carbon in the intake valves. Try replacing the fuel filter and decarbonizing the engine yourself. Soft carbon on the valves can absorb fuel, particularly in colder weather, decreasing its ability to ignite. The same can happen if you use low-quality, contaminated or high-octane fuel in an ICE car calling for 87 octane. Add a decarbonizing cleaner to the fuel tank and clean other components of the fuel/air intake system before taking your car in for service.

Battery

A failing battery, a battery with loose or corroded battery terminals, or low voltage can cause your engine to not crank over on the first attempt but start on the second try. Clean the battery terminals, and check the battery and charging system for proper voltage.

Ignition system

Weak ignition coils, worn or dirty spark plugs, or degraded spark plug wires can all prevent your engine from starting on the first try. Replacing spark plugs and spark plug wires are all DIY tasks. However, diagnosing and repairing coil-over plug ignition systems (they have no spark plug wires) is best left to your mechanic.

Starter motor

If your engine clicks on the first try and then starts on the second try, the started motor or solenoid may be bad. Try cleaning the ground cable that attaches from the negative (-) battery terminal to the engine block. Unless you are comfortable working under your car, leave starter repairs to your mechanic.

Dirty or malfunctioning computer sensors

Any number of sensors that send information to the Engine Control Unit (ECU) can cause all kinds of starting issues. For example, a failed coolant temperature sensor (CTS) can either flood an engine with too much fuel or starve the engine of fuel. Out of calibration, failing or dirty mass air flow (MAF) sensor, oxygen (O2) sensors, crankshaft or camshaft position sensors can keep an engine from firing up on the first attempt, while allowing it on the second try.

Check for trouble codes if you have a diagnostic code reader. Cleaning the MAF or replacing O2 sensors are DIY fixes. Leave crankshaft or camshaft position sensors to the pros.

Lack of maintenance

Sometimes, a dirty air filter can cause the engine to run with too much fuel, thick oil can keep an ICE from spinning fast enough to start, bad coolant can damage the CTS, or a dirty throttler body or idle air control (IAC) valve can affect the air-fuel mixture and hinder your car from staring on the first try. These are all basic DIY maintenance items to keep up with and ensure your car starts on the first try.

Meet the Expert

Dave Zemaitaitis has been a General Motors Master Technician for 23 years and currently works at O’Neil Buick/GMC in Warminster, PA., interview Dec. 16, 2024

Sources

Edmunds, “Do Stop-Start Systems Really Save Fuel?” (Dec. 16, 2024)

The post 6 Reasons Why Your Car Only Starts On the Second Try appeared first on Family Handyman.

Only 81.7 percent of people riding in the backseat wear their seat belts, according to a press release from the NHTSA, compared to more than 91 percent of people in the front seat. The new rules are directly aimed at reducing the number of deaths and injuries resulting from passengers not wearing seat belts. The NHTSA estimates that these rules will prevent more than 50 fatalities and 500 injuries. Each year, an estimated 822 backseat passengers lose their lives, and another 11,000 suffer injuries from not wearing safety belts.

What Kind of Seat Belt Alerts Are Required By The New Rule?

The rule requires vehicles to provide a visual alert once the ignition is on and the seat belt isn’t in use for an occupied rear seat. Once the vehicle starts moving, the rule requires an audio alert as well, so something like the beeps, buzzes or dings cars sound now when the driver isn’t wearing their seat belt. Visual warnings must last for at least 60 seconds, while audio warnings must last for at least 30 seconds.

Some form of rear seat alert is already fairly common in newer cars. The agency says that approximately 47 percent of cars made in 2022 have that feature.

For the front seats, the new rule mandates that the audio and visual warnings be extended. The rule requires the audio warning for the front seats to work in two phases. The first must last at least 30 seconds. A second phase will activate only when the vehicle speed is moving at 6.2 miles per hour or faster and the seats are occupied but the seat belt is not in use.

What Kinds of Vehicles Does the New Seat Belt Warning Rule Cover?

Almost everything sold in the United States will be covered by the new rule: cars, trucks, busses (with the exception of school busses) and multi-purpose passenger vehicles with a weight rating of 10,000 pounds or less.

When Were Seat Belts First Required In Cars?

Knowing what we know now, it’s hard to believe that there was a time when carmakers weren’t required to install seat belts in vehicles. The Federal Government made it a requirement in 1968, but it wasn’t until 1984 that states started passing mandatory seat belt laws. New York was the first state do so in that year, and by 1995, every state but New Hampshire had a similar law on the books. New Hampshire still does not require adults to wear seat belts, but the Granite State does require passengers under 18 to be properly restrained with a seat belt or a car seat for passengers under 7 years or 57 inches tall.

When Did Seat Belt Alarms Become Mandatory?

Seat belt reminders have been around for a while, and the United States made them mandatory for drivers starting in 1972.

How Many Lives Are Saved By Seat Belts?

The NHTSA estimates that 14,955 lives were saved because of seat belt use when people were involved in a crash. In 2022, the agency reports that there were 25,420 fatalities in car crashes among vehicle occupants, and about 50 percent of those people were not wearing a seat belt.

According to the agency’s data, you risk of fatal injury in a passenger car drops by 45 percent for anyone in the front seats wearing a seat belt. Risk of moderate to critical injury drops by 50 percent. In light trucks, the risk of death drops by 60 percent and moderate to critical injury by 65 percent.

In other words, buckle up and make sure anyone riding in your car has their seat belt on, too. Let this be your official warning from your friends at Family Handyman.

The post What You Need To Know About the New Seat Belt Warning Rules appeared first on Family Handyman.

I used to own a 1960s-era Volkswagen Beetle, and while it definitely wasn’t a high-profile vehicle, it acted like one at times. It was very light and difficult to control in the wind, and it sometimes jumped lanes all by itself when crossing long bridges. High-profile vehicles can do that, too, but it’s because of their size, not their weight. It’s even possible to own a vehicle that wouldn’t normally be considered high-profile and turn it into one by carrying a load.

If all this has got you wondering what high-profile vehicles are and why you should care, we’ll tell you all about it ahead.

What Is a High-Profile Vehicle?

For some people, a high-profile vehicle may be one that’s flashy or more noticeable than a regular vehicle, but a better term for that would be “high-end.” As far as highway officials, such as the Mackinac Bridge Authority (MBA), are concerned, a high-profile vehicle is one that’s taller, wider or longer than other vehicles.

Because they have a large cross-sectional area, high-profile vehicles can get blown off course in high winds, causing accidents and road closures. Tall ones are more likely to topple over when making sharp turns at speed. Highway officials use the term “high profile” to provide guidelines for controlling traffic and preventing accidents in severe weather conditions.

Needless to say, high-profile vehicles can be more challenging to drive than regular ones, but design improvements are changing that.

Types Of High-Profile Vehicles

A list of high-profile vehicles would include the following:

• Commercial trucks: These include semi-tractor trailers, trucks that haul automobiles or boats, and cube vehicles, including box trucks. The U.S. Department of Transportation, along with the individual states, establish width and length requirements for these vehicles. There is no federal height requirement; the states establish that.
• Self-propelled and tow-along RVs
• Buses
• Panel trucks and Vans
• SUVs: SUVs tend to have high driving positions, which makes them high-profile, but few contemporary ones are as prone to tipping as earlier models, such as the ’90s-era Geo Tracker or Ford Explorer. In particular, EVs and hybrids have batteries that add extra weight near the wheelbase and lower their center of gravity.
• Pickup trucks carrying loads. A pickup truck with a topper or with anything strapped to the top or inside the bed, such as ladders or tools.
• Any vehicle towing something, such as a camping, boat or utility trailer.

Popular High-Profile Vehicle Models

The high-profile vehicles of most interest to an individual consumer who doesn’t have a commercial driver’s license would be RVs and SUVs.

RVs

There are three classes of self-propelled motor homes: Class A RVs resemble buses, while Class C ones have a profile that more resembles a pickup with a topper. Class B RVs, also known as camper vans, are arguably more popular because they tend to be smaller, easier on gas and more maneuverable.

Vans

MotorTrend magazine lists three top minivans for 2024/2025:

• Honda Odyssey
• Kia Carnival
• Toyota Sienna

Their picks for large vans are:

• Chevrolet Express
• Ford E-Transit
• Ford Transit

SUVs

SUVs differ from passenger cars by being bigger and roomier, but the choice of model is highly dependent on personal preference. According to U.S. News, the five most popular models in 2024 were:

• Kia Sportage
• Subaru Forester
• Ford Explorer
• Hyundai Tuscon
• Nissan Rogue
• Jeep Grand Cherokee
• Chevrolet Equinox
• Tesla Model Y
• Honda CR-V
• Toyota RAV4

Pros and Cons of High-Profile Vehicles

High-profile vehicles, such as SUVs and vans, are great for families, but historically, they have tended to use more gas and cost more to operate than passenger cars. But that was before the introduction of EV technology. Even so, it pays to check the MPGs before buying or leasing a vehicle. Here are some of the pluses and minuses of high-profile vehicles:

Pros

• Roominess: SUVs and vans have more passenger and luggage room than passenger vehicles. RVs are even roomier.
• Robustness: With their high wheelbases, which allow for navigation on rough terrain, SUVs are built for those who travel for adventure. This benefit does not necessarily apply to RVs.
• Towing power: SUVs and RVs generally have bigger, more powerful engines than smaller vehicles and can tow heavier loads.
• Safety: SUVs and RVs are solidly built, making injuries less likely in the event of an accident.

Cons

• Height restrictions: Because they are bigger than passenger cars, high-profile vehicles like SUVs and RVs don’t fit in every garage. If you own an RV, you need to be aware of exactly how tall it is, because it might not fit under some highway overpasses. You may need a special GPS function that warns you when there is a low overpass on your route.
• Susceptibility to wind: One of the main problems with a high-profile vehicle is that its large body can act like a sail on a windy day, creating a potential hazard for you and the cars around you.
• Driveability: When you’re driving a high-profile vehicle, you’re higher off the roadway than you are in a passenger car, and you have a larger vehicle to control. Both create challenges when you have to park.
• Fuel efficiency: Because they are larger and heavier than passenger cars, gas-powered SUVs and RVs (not hybrids or EVs) consume more fuel.

Is a High-Profile Vehicle Right for Me?

That depends on your needs. You may be compelled to purchase a high-profile vehicle to accommodate a large family, to transport tools and supplies for your job or simply to take a vacation. When it comes to an everyday vehicle for getting around town, my preference is a small car that’s economical to drive and easy to park, but some folks just like larger vehicles, and they have the budget to maintain one.

If you’re worried about not being able to handle a large vehicle, don’t be. Most contemporary trucks, vans and SUVs come equipped with driving aids, such as flashing side mirrors to detect cars in your blind spots, backup cameras, and detectors to help prevent collisions. You still need to have an intuitive feel for the size of your vehicle, though, or you could end up sideswiping another car while parking. One more thing: Before purchasing a large vehicle, make sure your garage has enough room to accommodate it.

Sources

• Mackinac Bridge Authority: What Vehicles Are Considered High-Profile?; 2023.
• MotorTrend: See Best Van; 2024.
• U.S. News: The 10 Best-Selling SUVs in 2024; 2024.

The post Everything to Know About High-Profile Vehicles appeared first on Family Handyman.

Ahead, learn all about blue stop signs, with help from Chief Jennifer Gundersen of the South Hadley, Massachusetts Police Department.

What Does a Blue Stop Sign Mean?

In the U.S., a blue stop sign still means to bring your vehicle to a complete stop before proceeding. These blue signs retain the octagonal shape of the standard stop sign but are not issued by state or federal authorities and are not official traffic control signs. However, they have the same intent as one.

Since the 1950s, all stop signs in the U.S. have been required to be red, as outlined in the Federal Highway Administration’s Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). The red color was chosen for its visibility, and a national standard makes stop signs easy to recognize.

While blue stop signs are not used in the U.S. on official roadways, they do appear in other countries to indicate restricted access or no-entry zones.

What States/Countries Have Blue Stop Signs?

In the U.S., you should only encounter blue stop signs on private property. Large estates, ranches, private golf courses, or country clubs could use blue stop signs on their roads to indicate that drivers should stop. Hawaii, in particular, has many blue stop signs due to state laws prohibiting official road signs on private property. Blue stop signs allow property owners to still signal drivers to stop without violating these laws.

In countries like Japan, South Korea, and Mexico, you might encounter blue stop signs, but they have a different meaning than in the United States. Rather than signaling to stop and then proceed, these blue signs typically indicate restricted areas or no-entry zones. In this case, blue stop signs instruct drivers to turn around and not continue.

Even in countries where blue stop signs are officially used, red octagonal signs continue to be the standard for directing drivers to stop. In 1968, the United Nations developed international road sign standards to increase driver safety across bordering countries. The red octagonal stop sign is included in these international standards and is common throughout most of the world’s roadways.

Can I Put a Blue Stop Sign Near My Home?

If you have a large, privately-owned property with a system of roads within it, you can install a blue stop sign if you want to. However, “blue stop signs are not authorized on public ways,” Gundersen says, in Massachusetts or in any other U.S. state. This means that on municipal or public roads, you cannot legally install a blue stop sign.

There is also some ambiguity as to whether blue stop signs can be enforced. But regardless of its legal status, if you encounter a blue stop sign in the U.S., it’s there for good reason. It’s always best to stop and ensure the area is clear before proceeding.

About the Experts

• Jennifer Gundersen is the Chief of Police for the town of South Hadley, Massachusetts. She has been in this role since 2019 and began her law enforcement career in 1994.

Sources

United Nations Economic Commission for Europe. Convention on Road Signs and Signals. (2006)

The post If You See a Blue Stop Sign, Here’s What It Means appeared first on Family Handyman.

Apparently, my frustration is a common one. Threads on reddit and other sites have many people lamenting about unaware drivers, while others confess they never realized traffic light sensors existed.

“Topics like traffic light sensors often trend because they directly impact everyday drivers, especially as myths about their functionality circulate,” says Virginia Lingham, senior vice president at the infrastructure engineering firm WSP. “Additionally, advancements in intelligent transportation systems and the integration of connected vehicles are driving public curiosity about how these systems work.”

If you’re curious about how traffic light sensors work, or just want to keep the flow of green lights and good vibes rolling, here’s what to know.

What Do Traffic Light Sensors Do?

Traffic light sensors detect when a vehicle stops at a red light and inform the traffic light control system that a car is waiting for the light to turn green. This optimizes the amount of time lights can stay green for busier lanes and reduces the amount of time we have to wait at red lights.

Some traffic light sensors combine data from multiple sensors, says Xavier Sabastian, an auto expert at Way.com. This helps:

• Improve traffic flow
• Reduce idling cars, saving fuel and emissions
• Reduce accidents
• Adapt to changes in traffic during peak and off-peak hours
• Address immediate bottleneck issues by live updating the timing of signals

“Certain sensors also provide automatic priority to emergency vehicles passing through the intersection,” says Sabastian.

Types of Traffic Light Sensors

The three most common types of sensors are induction loop, camera and radar. Each has its pros and cons, and where you find them will depend on the type of pavement, regional climate and financial resources of the city or state.

Inductive Loop Sensors

Inductive loop sensors are embedded in or under the pavement and use changes in magnetic fields to detect vehicles. Their coiled wire is loaded with an electrical charge, which changes voltage when a large piece of metal gets within range.

While these are highly reliable, they need to be replaced every time the road is repaved, which has led to the rise of other detection types, like cameras and radar, says a Denver metro traffic engineer with the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT).

Video Camera Detection

Video camera detectors point toward oncoming traffic, and some have 360-degree views. The latest generation can also recognize bicycles.

“These are very useful for tracking movement patterns of vehicles in multiple lanes,” says Sabastian. “Studies reveal that video detection systems can reduce delays in traffic by up to 20% in congestion.”

However, they do have some shortcomings says CDOT. “The primary concern is that the lens can get dirty or blinded, just like our eyes,” they say. “Sunrise and sunset can also glare out a camera for several minutes, leading to erratic behavior for a short period of time.”

Radar Detection

Radar detection works similarly to cameras but uses radio waves to detect approaching vehicles. That can give it an edge over video cameras since it doesn’t work within the visible spectrum of light, says CDOT.

Radar detection is also effective for detecting faster-moving vehicles, says Sabastian, so these are commonly found at high-speed intersections and freeway ramps.

Infrared Sensors

Infrared traffic sensors detect approaching vehicles by using their heat signatures. “These are good under low-visibility conditions like fog or rain and mostly used in areas with extreme weather conditions,” says Sabastian.

Other Sensors

Microwave sensors are efficient in detecting both stationary and moving vehicles and are mostly found in suburbs with fair to moderate traffic, says Sabastian. Other emerging tools include video analytics and LiDar, says Lingham.

Do All Traffic Lights Have Sensors?

No, not all traffic lights have sensors. Areas with complex road networks, like cities, often optimize traffic flow using fixed timers. Also, older lights in rural and other areas also still use timers.

“The majority of traffic signals outside major urban grid systems operate with some form of vehicle detection,” says Lingham. “However, each state and local agency has its own operating procedures and preferences, and these systems can vary widely by region.”

What Happens If You Don’t Drive Up to the White Line at a Traffic Light With Sensors?

The sensors won’t detect your vehicle, so the light won’t change from red to green. Especially with loop sensor technology, “if you’re too far back or over the white line, it’ll just act like there’s nobody there,” says Sabastian. “This may result in longer wait times, as the system assumes there is no traffic in your lane. For intersections with high traffic volumes, such an oversight can disrupt the entire flow of vehicles.”

What Is the Proper Distance to Stop From Traffic Light Sensors?

Stop near the white line, aka the stop bar or limit line. A good rule of thumb is to align the view over your vehicle’s hood with the line since detection zones typically start at the stop bar and include a car length or back (about 40 feet).

Can Traffic Light Sensors Fail?

Yes, sometimes traffic light sensors can fail, but many have a fallback mechanism that recognizes when a direction has not been triggered for a significant length of time and then assumes that means the sensor is broken. It will then behave as if there is always a car present, until it can be repaired, says CDOT.

“Every driver out late at night has been stopped at a red light when no conflicting vehicle is present, and it may feel unnecessary; it is likely this important safety feature in action,” says CDOT.

Will Flashing My High Beams Make the Light Turn Green More Quickly?

No, flashing your headlights will not impact traffic light sensors because they don’t detect headlights, says Deege Carse, director at Trackershop.

“There’s also the misconception that the heavier your vehicle, the more you’re able to trigger a green light,” he says. “In reality, the weight of your car can’t do anything to trigger a green light. With inductive loop technology, it’s the metal or iron in your car that triggers this and lets the system know that you are waiting for light to turn green.”

About the Experts

• The Colorado Department of Transportation spokesperson is a traffic engineer for the Denver metro-area.
• Virginia Lingham, is a Professional Engineer (PE), senior vice president and national ITS lead with WSP, a global engineering firm specializing in transportation, infrastructure and other sectors.
• Xavier Sabastian is an author and auto/insurance expert with the Way.com auto app.
• Deege Carse is director at Trackershop, a supplier of GPS trackers and vehicle security systems.

The post Why You Should Always Pull Up to the White Line at Intersections appeared first on Family Handyman.

Why Is There a Jeep Renegade Recall?

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Chrysler is recalling some of their Jeeps due to an issue with the reverse lights. The “incorrect rear bumper light assembly” was installed on the affected vehicles. The brief warns that “incorrect reverse lights may have reduced visibility.” This poses a large threat as reverse lights are supposed to “alert pedestrians and other drivers that the vehicle is backing up,” and having them malfunction “increas[es] the risk of a crash.”

Which Jeep Renegade Vehicless Are Being Recalled?

The NHTSA recall brief states that Chrysler is recalling over 2100 2021, 2022 and 2023 Jeep Renegades. If you own a Jeep with that model and year then there’s a high chance that yours is one of the impacted vehicles. Limit your driving, especially at night, until you are able to get the problem remedied. We may take our reverse lights for granted at times, but if they’re malfunctioning you’re at a very high risk for a crash.

Remedy

If you own one of the impacted Jeeps, keep an eye on your mailbox for the owner letter. Chrysler has said that it will be mailing these out in late January. The letter will have further information as well as instructions on the repair process. Chrysler has said that owners can take their vehicles to the dealership for an inspection. If their reverse lights are faulty, they will be replaced free of charge.

If you have more questions or don’t want to wait until January to get more information you can call FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Be sure to mention that you are calling about FCA recall number D7B. You can also call the NHTSA Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236. If you call this number, you’ll need to reference NHTSA Campaign Number 24V918000

Source

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Read on to learn which tires are being recalled, why they’re being recalled, and what to do if your tires are on the list.

What Tires Are Being Recalled?

According to the recall report submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on Dec. 13, Prinx Chengshan Tire North America, Inc. (PCTNA) is recalling 541,632 tires in its Fortune Tormenta and Prinx Hicountry replacement tire lines produced between August 2020 and December 2024. The official recall report lists the specific sizes and models impacted.

PCTNA will send owner notification letters to those impacted by the recall in early February 2025.

Why Are These Tires Being Recalled?

This line of all-weather rugged terrain or mud terrain tubeless radial tires is meant to provide sufficient traction to perform safely in severe snowy weather. However, the tires were safety tested against a European standard that does not comply with North American standards. When the tires were put to the test according to North American standards, they failed.

If these tires are used on snowy roads, they may not provide the traction expected for safe performance and could, as a result, increase the risk of a crash.

What To Do If Your Tires Are Recalled

PCTNA has not finalized a remedy for this recall. However, according to the recall report, the “remedy tires will be compliant with regulatory requirements,” suggesting the company will be footing the bill for new tires that meet North American safety standards.

If you think you have tires that are part of this recall, look for a notification letter about the recall in your mailbox by February 2025. It will have more information about how to move forward.

In the meantime, owners can contact PCTNA customer service at 1-310-205-8355 (ext. 109) for more information.

Sources

• NHTSA.org: Safety Recall Report
• NHTSA.org: “Insufficient Traction for Snow Tires/FMVSS 139”

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“You’ll need to consider your personal driving habits, the climate where you live, and where you will be doing the majority of your driving before selecting the type of all-terrain tire tread pattern best meets your needs,” says off-road tire expert Dave Hulsey.

Ahead, tire and off-roading experts share tips to help you decide if you should switch to all-terrain tires and the benefits of their different tread designs.

What Are All Terrain Tires?

All-terrain tires have distinct features and functions designed for driving under a variety of road and weather conditions, including off-roading, unpaved, uneven, and rough roads.

“Even all-terrain tires with less aggressive tread designs have large, deep grooves for better traction,” says Mike Debro, owner and operator of tire and auto service center United Tire and Service, of motoring on less than pristine road surfaces and road conditions. Meanwhile, tread patterns on more aggressive all-terrain tires come with larger lugs and deeper grooves, which provide exceptional handling and grip when off-roading.

Due to their tread patterns, composition, and versatility, all-terrain tires typically perform better in severe weather conditions, such as rain, mud, and snow.

How Are All Terrain Tires Different From Regular Tires?

To withstand rough environments, “all-terrain tires are constructed using stronger and reinforced compounds, as well as up to 10 ply treads and three-ply sidewalls reinforced with lightweight Kevlar, steel belts or high strength Aramid fibers,” says Hulsey. Hulsey explains that “three-ply sidewalls are more durable” than a traditional all-season tire that uses a two-ply-polyester. They “resist cuts and abrasions when driving on rocky or uneven roads,” he adds.

Aggressive all-terrain tires may have tread patterns that continue over the sidewall of the tire, increasing traction and grip when driving off-road. Unlike a traditional all-season, all-weather or summer tire, all-terrain tires provide good handling and performance on paved roads and uneven surfaces and are suitable for on-road and off-road driving.

All Terrain Tire Cost

Surprisingly, the cost of all-terrain tires isn’t that much more than standard all-season or all-weather tires. I recently installed four new, highly rated all-weather tires on my full-size SUV. Comparable, highly rated all-terrain tires cost only about $50 more per tire than all-weather tires for my vehicle. Additionally, the all-terrain tire was 3PMSF rated.

Still, tires are generally expensive. For example, for the recommended size tires for my vehicle (255/60R19 109H), prices ranged from $210 to $325 (per tire) for an “entry-level” all-weather tire. The same size all-terrain tire with a less aggressive treadagain, from a highly rated tire manufacturercan start around $250 and can go up to $400 or more if you’re looking for tires with aggressive off-roading tread, for example.

Reasons to Switch to All Terrain Tires

There are several benefits to switching to all-terrain tires, including:

Challenging Road Conditions

All-terrain tires are particularly effective when driving on gravel, mud, sand or rocky surfaces. All-terrain tires’ aggressive tread patterns afford enhanced traction on loose, irregular or hazardous surfaces.

Extreme Weather Conditions

If the climate where you live experiences heavy snow accumulations, consider all-terrain tires with the 3PMSF symbol. According to Goodyear, “specialized tread compounds help the tread to adapt to all seasons,” offering increased traction, better handling, and maneuverability on wet, snow, and ice-covered roads. Debro added, “You still need to drive carefully on ice, no matter what tires are on your car.”

For a Smoother Driving Experience

Regardless of their robust (some may call it knurly) tread patterns, “less aggressive all-terrain tires can provide a quieter, smoother, more comfortable ride on highways and paved streets, but still will always be noisier than all-season highway tires,” said Debro.

Look and Feel

Of course, all-terrain tires’ rugged looks add a muscular aesthetic, giving your vehicle a more exciting and dominant look on the road.

Reasons to Not Use All Terrain Tires

All-terrain tires offer several benefits, but depending on the make and model of the vehicle, they might not be right for you. If you drive a sporty car, large sedan, compact or electric vehicle, or do most of your driving on paved roads and city streets rather than off-roading, stick with all-weather or all-season tires.

Even with advances in tire design and construction, all-terrain tires tend to run noisily. Because of the three-ply sidewalls, the ride is much stiffer than regular tires, and they have a much higher rolling resistance that reduces fuel economy. Aggressive tread patterns may wear quicker on paved roads, reducing tread life.

Are All Terrain Tires Worth It?

Yes, all-terrain tires are worth it if your vehicle will benefit from their design and they match your driving habits.

However, if you drive a sports car, luxury sedan, a sub-compact or an electric vehicle, then no, all-terrain tires would be a waste of money and could adversely affect handling and overall performance (for example, EV tires are designed specially to have very low rolling resistance for increased driving range).

Additionally, according to Debro, “all-terrain tires are not suitable for SUVs that have ‘refined suspensions’ engineered for highway driving and all-season tires. Even if you can find a set that will fit, they will be loud, give you a hard ride and affect handling.”

FAQ

Are All-terrain tires less likely to get nailed?

Yes. All-terrain tires have deep reinforced treads and sidewalls and are designed and built to drive in harsh, rough conditions. Their thick, aggressive treads protect against sharp objects and offer increased resistance to punctures from nails and other objects. While all-terrain tires are less likely to get nailed, they are not impervious to punctures. Sharp objects can still pierce the tread if the tires are worn.

How long do all-terrain tires last?

According to Hulsey, “Better quality all-terrain tires come with limited 50 to 70,000-mile tread life warranties, and you get what you pay for.” How long they last depends on several factors. “First is how you drive on them,” Hulsey says. “Lots of off-roading or driving through rough terrain will quickly wear the tread.”

Additionally, tires made with softer compounds that offer better traction tend to wear faster than tires constructed with harder compounds. Meanwhile, tires made with harder compounds last longer, but you trade traction for tire life.

Ultimately, Hulsey warns, lack of maintenance, incorrect air pressure, or tires that are not rotated, balanced and aligned regularly will wear prematurely, as with any tire.

About the Experts

• Dave Hulsey is a 10-year Master Technician and tire expert at Street Road Accessories located in Feasterville, PA.
• Mike Debro is a Master Technician and owner and operator of United Tire and Service, located in Feasterville, PA.

SOURCES

• Consumer Reports, Best Tire Brands of 2024, Consumer Reports’ test results reveal which companies make the best-performing tires, Oct. 24, 2024
• Goodyear Auto Service, All-Terrain, Dec. 1, 2024
• Goodyear, Learning Hub, Dec. 1, 2024
• Goodyear, Tire Basics, Dec. 1, 2024
• Goodyear, E-mail correspondence, Nov. 19, 2024
• Joe Rivells, Retail sales and counter person at Street Road Accessories located in Feasterville, PA. 19053 Dec. 4, 2024
• Tire Rack, leading on-line tire vendor. Live chat with Ross with Customer Support, Dec. 3, 2024
• Tom Diamond, ASE Master Technician, Mazda certified trainer and PA Department of Transportation certified state safety, emissions and reconstructed vehicle inspector and Automotive Technology instructor at Father Judge High School, the only Catholic High School in the U.S. with an Automotive Technology Career Pathway Academy program. Phone interview, Dec. 3, 2024

The post Should You Switch to All Terrain Tires? appeared first on Family Handyman.

There are laws in 30 states and the District of Columbia that prohibit drivers from letting their vehicles idle, like when you warm your car up in the morning to knock some of the chill out of your commute. In addition to individual states, a number of cities and counties have similar laws on the books aimed at preventing cars from idling.

What’s the Purpose of Anti-Idling Laws?

These statutes aren’t meant to make your winter mornings more unpleasant. The goal of anti-idling laws is to prevent air pollution. Vehicle exhaust releases harmful chemicals, soot and gasses like nitrogen dioxide that can aggravate asthma and allergies and contribute to cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. If you’ve ever lived in a city with air quality advisories or a thick layer of smog hanging heavy in the air, you can appreciate the intent of these anti-idling laws.

Cars and trucks are also a major source of greenhouse gases, contributing to ozone and haze regionally and to the larger problem of climate change. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, every gallon of gas burned pumps about 20 pounds of greenhouse gasses into the atmosphere.

What States Have Laws Against Idling?

It’s important to note that the laws, as well as the penalties, differ from place to place. For example, you could face a fine as high as $5,000 for letting your car idle for more than three minutes in Washington, DC. But in Pennsylvania, you can let your car run for as long as 20 minutes if the temperature is below 40 degrees. Here’s the list of states with anti-idling laws, according to the EPA’s website:

• Arizona
• California
• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Delaware
• District of Columbia
• Georgia
• Hawaii
• Idaho
• Illinois
• Kansas
• Maine
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
• Michigan
• Minnesota
• Missouri
• Nevada
• New Hampshire
• New Jersey
• New York
• North Carolina
• Ohio
• Oregon
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• Texas
• Utah
• Vermont
• Virginia
• West Virginia

Because the laws can vary from state to state and city to city, you should always check to see what the statues are where you live.

But Aren’t You Supposed to Warm Up Cars in the Winter?

Back in the old days of carburetors, it was helpful to let the engine run for a few minutes before starting your drive. But that’s not the case with today’s fuel-injected vehicles. Most cars only need about 30 seconds to circulate oil throughout the engine, about the time it takes you to fasten your seatbelt and queue up your playlist, according to JD Power.

The best way to warm up a car is by driving it. Sure, it may be a little cold at first, but your car will warm up faster, and the heater and defrost will work better, with the car in motion.

Idling Wastes Fuel

Still not convinced about skipping the warm-up? Think about your bottom line. Idling wastes gas. In fact, idling for 10 seconds burns more fuel than turning off the engine and restarting it. Gas isn’t getting any cheaper, so it makes sense to save where you can.

Does Idling Damage the Engine?

Idling itself doesn’t damage the engine specifically, but it does add to the wear and tear. Those minutes spent idling add up, and you’ll need to get the oil changed sooner the more you idle.

Sources

• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): “Compilation of State, County, and Local Anti-Idling Regulations”
• EPA: “Greenhouse Gas Emissions from a Typical Passenger Vehicle”
• North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality: “Why Is Idling Harmful?”
• JD Power: “Do You Need to Warm Up Your Car?”

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Red Road Signs

Red is used exclusively for regulatory road signs prohibiting doing something. So, a stop sign is red because you are prohibited from driving past it without stopping. “Yield,” “do not enter,” no left or right turn and “no parking” signs are other examples of prohibitive signs that are red.

The post Decoding Road Sign Colors: What They Tell You From a Distance appeared first on Family Handyman.

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems

Several of our experts expect driver assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance and emergency braking, to become standard features in the near future, even in entry-level models.

“These systems will make driving safer and less stressful, especially in traffic or on long road trips,” says Ivanov. “Imagine your car helping you stay centered in your lane or braking to avoid an unexpected obstacle; peace of mind at its best.”

The post What’s Next for Cars? 14 Innovations Coming In 2025 and Beyond appeared first on Family Handyman.

And the number of recalls is likely to increase as cars become more sophisticated and expensive, says Chris “Moose” Pyle, an automotive expert with JustAnswer. “Manufacturers have to cut corners and use some cheaper parts to get the MSRP down, often resulting in a cheaper-made part failing prematurely,” he says.

If you’ve just found out about a recall or think you’ve missed the recall repair window, here’s what to know to keep yourself and your passengers safe, plus your bank account from being dinged.

What Is an Auto Recall?

An auto recall occurs when widespread safety issues or defective parts are found or when vehicles fail to meet regulatory standards, such as emissions. Consumers are then asked to bring their vehicles into the shop to address it.

“Most times, a recall is likely to be issued due to an offense-level risk that is able to endanger the life of the driver as well as the passengers and even other people around,” says Andrew Franks, co-founder of Claimsline.

Recalls can be issued by a manufacturer or, in the United States, by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

What Is the Typical Auto Recall Remedy?

It depends on the severity and type of the defect, but under federal law, the vehicle manufacturer will cover the cost. If your vehicle has a recall issued for it, next steps may include:

• Inspection, where the shop checks for something that is damaged or incorrectly assembled.
• Software updates, which aren’t physical repairs, but could include correcting issues with autonomous driving systems or updating the engine control unit.
• Failing parts, in which case it’s relatively urgent to arrange a visit to the shop so it can be replaced.
• Safety systems, such as airbags. “Those need to be handled now since you could be injured if you continue driving the vehicle,” says Pyle.
• Warranty extensions, which don’t involve repairs, but add to the amount of time or mileage under which repair parts and labor will be covered.

In some cases, the manufacturer might offer a partial refund to cover the cost of defective parts or to reimburse for towing or out-of-pocket repairs made before the recall was issued. In extreme cases, manufacturers may offer to buy back the vehicle, says Joshua Detzel, marketing director at C. Harper Auto Group. “This is often seen in situations involving severe structural defects or when the vehicle qualifies under lemon laws.”

Regardless of the type of recall, you will likely get a recall notice in the mail or electronically with instructions for what to do next. “Manufacturers will work hand-in-hand with their dealers to contact customers to ensure the recall is completed,” says Gretchen Seidel, an automotive expert at Seidel & Co. who worked on the Takata airbag recall, which was one of the largest automotive recalls in history. “In the case of Takata, extra measures were taken to put customers in loaner vehicles, sometimes for several months, if they were under a do-not-drive notification.”

Franks says that in a rare scenario, a manufacturer might have gone out of business. “If this is the case, then the liability can sometimes be passed on to the supplier, or in some countries, the government can take charge of categorizing the repairs.”

Is There a Time Limit on When a Manufacturer Will Repair My Recalled Vehicle?

Yes, federal law only requires manufacturers to cover safety defects for 15 years, and each state has different laws and regulations, says Seidel. For example, in California, the window is only 10 years. “There shouldn’t be any reason an owner can’t get a vehicle into a dealership to complete a recall within 10 years,” she says. But “you should get any recalls completed at your local dealership as soon as possible since they usually have to do with safety concerns, emissions or compliance concerns.”

How Do I Know If My Vehicle Has a Recall?

You can check to see if your vehicle has any open recalls through the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. If it does, contact a dealership or other manufacturer-authorized repair center to schedule the repair. It’s also a good idea to check for recalls when buying a used car.

“Be proactive,” says Detzel. “It’s always better to address recalls as soon as possible to ensure your safety and peace of mind.”

What Happens If I Miss a Recall?

If you miss a recall repair window, then the associated financial and liability responsibilities fall on you instead of the manufacturer. That means you will likely have to pay for the repair, plus other potential problems could arise such as:

• Safety risks from the defective parts, which could result in accidents and injuries. “Some issues, like brake failures or airbag defects, can worsen the longer they are left unrepaired,” says Detzel.
• Decreased resale value, since buyers may hesitate to purchase a vehicle that’s missed its recall repair window.
• Liability in accidents: “If an accident occurs due to a defect addressed in the recall, you could be held liable for negligence,” says Detzel.
• Insurance coverage issues, as some providers may deny claims for accidents caused by unresolved recalls.

About the Experts

• Gretchen Seidel is an automotive expert at Siedel & Co., with more than 30 years of experience in OEM, retail and FinTech, including working with the Acura division of American Honda turning the Takata airbag recall.
• Joshua Detzel is marketing director and automotive enthusiast at C. Harper Auto Group in Belle Vernon, Pennsylvania
• Chris “Moose” Pyle is a master-certified technician with 20-plus years of automotive experience. He has also worked as an expert for JustAnswer since 2006.
• Andrew Franks is co-founder of Claimsline car finance and accident management services, and an expert in automotive finance and regulated products.

The post Why You Should Never Ignore a Recall On Your Car appeared first on Family Handyman.

Notice that the dots emanate from a black border, called a “frit.” They’re made from a ceramic enamel paint that’s baked onto both sides of the window’s edge, which makes them almost indestructible. So what do dots and frits actually do?

1. Help secure the window glass: On the inside of the window, the frit creates a bonding point for the adhesive that attaches the window to the vehicle’s frame. They hold the glue in place, which holds thewindshieldin place.
2. UV protection: On the outside, the black dots help protect the adhesive from the sun’s UV radiation, which can degrade the bond between the car and the glass. It also gives the people in the car an additional measure of protection from the sun while driving.
3. Temperature control: In addition to the visual effect, the dots also provide temperature control. Window and windshield glass must be heated and bent into shape before being installed. Black-painted glass heats faster than the rest of the window. The dots distribute the heat more evenly, which prevents the windshield from warping in the heat.
4. Concealment: Frits also hide the adhesive from view.

The dots also make a more aesthetically pleasing transition from the thick black lines to the transparency of the window. The dots arent randomly placed; theyre positioned in whats known as a halftone pattern, getting smaller and farther apart as the black recedes. This pattern is less jarring to the eye than opaque black paint juxtaposed with transparent glass.

Prior to frits, older cars used a gasket and metal trim to hold the windshield in place, which could lead to the glass popping out in an accident.

Do All Cars Have Black Dots On the Windshield?

Most cars do. Manufacturers have been using frits with auto glass for several decades now, so unless you’re a classic car collector, it’s hard to find one without them.

Do the Windshield Dots Wear Off?

Yes. Over time, the dots on your windshield can start to wear off and fade. This can expose the adhesive to the elements, like harsh sunlight, weakening the bond that secures the glass to the car. If you start to notice the dots wearing off, you should take the car to an auto glass specialist. In some cases, they might be able to repair it, or the glass may have to be replaced entirely.

The post Here’s What Those Black Dots On Your Windshield Are For appeared first on Family Handyman.

Prepare Your Trunk Space Ahead of Time

This may seem like obvious advice, but before you leave home, you should have your trunk prepared. This may mean doing things like emptying your trunk as much as possible before you go, but it can also mean putting down or even removing seats and consoles-more on that later. Your goal is to have as empty and open space as possible so that you’re not left scrambling in the parking lot when your packages are inevitably bigger than you initially thought.

How to Load Your Stuff Properly

Much like packing or playing Tetris, you need to think strategically about how your items will fit together. If you’re hitting multiple stores and driving between them, You’ll likely have to rearrange things a few times as the day goes on. Heavy stuff should go on the bottom so it doesn’t crush the delicate items you might pick up. But after that, start loading from biggest to smallest.

Look carefully at all of your packages. Square and rectangular boxes will fit together quite nicely in almost any arrangement that your trunk space allows for. But oddly shaped items have to be planned around. If they’re small, you can get away with tucking them between other boxes. However if you’re gifting something large and oddly-shaped, it may have to go in first.

Take Advantage of Any Bonus Compartments

Many cars come with bonus compartments. Pockets in the back of seats, center consoles with storage, cubbies in the trunk, and-if you’ve installed it- perhaps even a roof rack or roof bag. Depending on how large these compartments are, you may be able to squirrel away quite a bit in them. Try to get smaller items and oddly shaped packages in these compartments wherever possible so that the larger items can fit nicely in the main area of the trunk.

If you’re confident in your ability to tie down items to a roof rack safely or to load them into the roof bag, you can also fit some items up there, which will free up your trunk space for the trickiest and most demanding packages. If you go this route, try to plan your shopping ahead of time so that your roof items can be the last things you have to purchase and load. You don’t want to navigate extra parking lots and city streets with a roof load if you don’t have to.

Put Down the Back Seats

Sometimes, you’re purchasing a very large gift for someone. If that’s the case, the trunk space on its own likely isn’t sufficient. Familiarize yourself with the levers on your rear seats. If you’ve got a more open trunk, like my Subaru does, you’ll just have to flip your back seats down. They may lay entirely flat, but even if they don’t, it probably won’t be a problem. Or you may be able to remove them entirely! Other car models have fully enclosed trunks. If this sounds like your car, you may have to look for a keyhole to unlock the back seats.

Once you’ve laid the seats down, you should have plenty more square footage to work with. Continue to follow the Tetris-like rules for loading: biggest stuff first, look for ways to get items to fit together so there’s no empty space wasted, be creative and patient.

Keep Your Trunk Space Organized Year-Round

Finally, if your trunk is organized all the time, you’ll have a much easier time shopping during the holidays. There are a few essentials you should always have in your car: a fire extinguisher, an emergency tire repair kit, etc. These should be gathered into a single box. This way, they don’t take up the whole trunk. Plus, they won’t slide around recklessly while you drive.

If there are other items you want to keep in your trunk regularly, like reusable shopping bags or an umbrella, think about how to store them securely. Consider utilizing a trunk organizer to keep them contained and leave plenty of space for groceries, luggage, or shopping bags.

The post 5 Tips to Make the Most of Your Car’s Trunk Space appeared first on Family Handyman.

Tetris Road Sign Color

According to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), there are several factors that go into the design of a road sign. Different colored road signs convey different types of information. Yellow signs, like the Tetris-shaped road signs, convey some kind of warning about the road ahead.

Tetris Road Sign Shape

Just like color plays a role in the meaning of a sign, shape is important, too. Stop signs are supposed to be the only octagon signs on the road so that you can quickly recognize the shape as well as the color and apply the brakes. Pentagons are used for school crossings and triangles for yield signs. Most other signs are squares or rectangles, so you’ll have to rely on the color and symbol to know exactly what they convey. Diamonds (like the Tetris-shaped signs) are for warnings.

What Does the Tetris Road Sign Mean?

Finally, we get to the symbols. Not all road signs have lettering on them, which is true in the case of Tetris-shaped road signs. They’re almost always yellow diamonds, which means they’re a warning sign.

Tetris road signs are warning you about an unusual intersection coming up ahead. The exact shape of the “Tetris piece” is meant to represent the road you’re on. So a cross or plus-sign-shaped symbol means a four-way intersection is coming ahead, while a symbol with three legs is a three-way intersection.

There’s also a special case: the T-shaped symbol. If your Tetris-shaped road signs look like this, it means you’re approaching a T-intersection. You cannot continue straight because the road ends, so you’ll have to turn either left or right.

Once in a while, you may run into a special case, maybe the road you’re on is unusually shaped, and the city has commissioned a custom sign. But running into those is rare, and with the information here, you can decipher the meaning if you need to.

Source

Signs, Signals, and Parking Pavements, Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles.

The post Tetris Road Signs Explained: The Message Behind the Blocks appeared first on Family Handyman.

Rental Car Reimbursement

Being without a car after a collision can be a major inconvenience. “Rental reimbursement is an optional coverage that pays for a rental car (up to a daily limit) if your car is in the shop for repair after a covered claim,” insurance industry analyst Maya Afilalo says.

Afilalo explains that this type of coverage, like many on this list, is optionalmeaning you have to choose to add it when you buy your policy. “Typically, rental reimbursement doesn’t increase your premiums significantly, but you need to have comprehensive and collision coverage,” she says.

The post 8 Things You Didn’t Know Your Car Insurance Covers appeared first on Family Handyman.

Catalytic Converter Failure

The most common cause of a rotten egg smell in a car is a faulty catalytic converter. Catalytic converters are meant to lessen the amount of dangerous gasses your car releases into the atmosphere, and when they fail, they create hydrogen sulfide, which smells like rotten eggs. As a catalytic converter goes bad, it also usually takes in more fuel than normal, as it struggles to process all of the exhaust gasses.

“Sometimes this is a problem that stems from an engine’s fuel system malfunctioning and burning too rich, or, rather, too much fuel,” says Duane “Doc” Watson, a technical trainer at Bosch Mobility Aftermarket. “It could also be an engine mechanical issue, leaving your catalytic converter struggling to convert the unburnt or rich fuel mixture properly.”

Regardless of the reason, it’s a good idea to promptly bring your car into the shop, since defective converters can expose you and the environment to harmful exhaust fumes, says Watson. It can also lower your gas mileage, create poor engine performance and eventually damage your engine.

“It doesn’t always mean replacing the entire unit, though, because it may simply be overheated or clogged,” says Deege Carse, director at Trackershop. “It’s also best to fix the root cause first before replacing the catalytic converter. Otherwise, the issue will recur even with a new catalytic converter.”

Some of the possible root causes include: needing a tuneup, having a vacuum leak, getting bad fuel, having a fuel system that is not at the correct pressure or having an incorrect reading at an airflow sensor, says Chris “Moose” Pyle, an auto expert with JustAnswer.

“Ways to address this are to use some fuel system cleaner, address any stored codes that are in your computer and give the vehicle a tuneup as needed,” says Pyle. “Also, if you’re smelling your catalytic converter, that’s a sign that your exhaust system has a leak, since exhaust odors should only be detected at the tailpipe.”

The post If Your Car Smells Like Rotten Eggs, Here’s What It Means appeared first on Family Handyman.

What Cars Are Recalled?

According to theNational Highway Traffic Safety Administration‘s report on this recall, dated Nov. 27, the following eight Stellantis truck models are part of this recall:

• 2017 RAM 2500
• 2018 RAM 2500
• 2017 RAM 3500
• 2018 RAM 3500
• 2017 RAM 4500
• 2018 RAM 4500
• 2017 RAM 5500
• 2018 RAM 5500

In total, 317,630 trucks are part of this recall, and Stellantis will send notification letters informing owners in early January 2025.

Why Are These Trucks Being Recalled?

The NHTSA report details that some of these RAM trucks “may have been built with a brake [hydraulic control unit (HCU)]that is susceptible to failure or malfunction, which may result in a reduction or change of ABS/ESC/Traction Control performance.” To decode those acronyms, the ABS is the anti-lock braking system, while the electronic stability control.

Though Stellantis did not report any injuries related to this recall, they did note that leaving it unaddressed could lead to intermittent and, eventually, permanent loss of the anti-lock braking system and traction control, which would cause a sudden loss of control and the vehicle to crash.

What To Do If My Truck Is Recalled

Stellantis will fix any impacted RAM truck free of charge. When owners receive their recall letter, they should call their local dealer as soon as possible to set up an appointment to have their car inspected. Stellantis will replace defective HCUs with a new one.

If you do not receive an ownership letter or have questions about this recall, owners can call Stellantis’s customer service at 1-800-853-1403 with inquiries about the recall (the recall number is C4B).

Sources

• NHTSA.gov: Loss of ABS/Traction Control from Module Failurerces
• NHTSA.gov: Recall Report

The post Over 300,000 RAM Trucks Recalled Over Dangerous Brake Defect appeared first on Family Handyman.

Manual/Wind-up Windows

Winding a window up and down was a chore, especially while driving (and can you imagine doing that today while holding a cellphone which you shouldn’t be doing while driving!) or having to reach across the seat to “crank up” the window if it starts raining, or stopping to pay at a toll booth? With power windows, pushing a button easily raises or lowers the windows in seconds. As power windows became more popular, manufacturers found it more efficient and cost-effective to make them a standard feature. While this change has been mostly welcomed, we still miss that manual windows allowed us to roll up our windows if the battery was dead, or down to the exact position we wanted. However, power windows offer convenience and comfort.

The post 13 Retro Car Features We’re Nostalgic For appeared first on Family Handyman.

What Cars Are Recalled?

According to the recall report provided to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on Nov. 27, the following car models are part of this recall:

• 2023 Honda Pilot
• 2023 Honda Passport
• 2024 Honda Pilot
• 2024 Honda Passport
• 2025 Honda Pilot

Honda will send notification letters to owners of the recalled vehicles in early January 2025. The recall affects 205,760 cars in total.

Why Are These Honda SUVs Being Recalled?

The NHTSA report explains that these models are being recalled because of a defect in the fuel system. “Some vehicles may have an incomplete connection between the fuel filler neck tube and fuel filler pipe,” the report reads. In the event of a crash, the filler neck tube could potentially separate from the filler pipe, causing a fuel leak, and if the leak happens near an ignition source, a fire could break out. In other words, this defect increases the risk of a fire.

What To Do If My Honda SUV Is Recalled

Honda will fix the impacted Honda Pilot and Passport SUVs free of charge. When owners receive their recall letter, they should call their local Honda dealer as soon as possible to set up an appointment to have their car inspected. If necassary, they will properly connect the fuel filler neck tube to the fuel filler pipe for you at no cost to you.

If you do not receive an ownership letter or have questions about this recall, owners can call Honda’s customer service at 1-888-234-2138 with inquiries about the recall (the recall number is OKM).

Sources

NHTSA.gov: “Fuel Leak from Fuel Filler Pipe Separation” Recall Report

The post Honda Recalls Over 200,000 SUVs Over Defect That Could Cause Fires appeared first on Family Handyman.

“Dealers will install advanced diagnostic software as the final remedy, anticipated to be available in the second quarter of 2025,” says the NHTSA. “Volkswagen will monitor available online vehicle data and contact owners as necessary to advise them not to charge the vehicle until the battery can be replaced.”

All repairs will be made free of charge. The NHTSA expects letters notifying impacted owners of the safety risk to be sent out by January 2025.

This recall follows another, much larger Volkswagen recall. In early November, the NHTSA announced that over 100,000 Volkswagen vehicles were being recalled over concerns that faulty airbag inflators may cause exploding airbags. That recall affected Beetle and Passat models from 2006 to 2019.

Sources:

• NHTSA, “2022 AUDI AUDI Q5” (2024)
• Reuters, “Volkswagen recalls more than 4,600 vehicles in US over battery overheating concerns” (2024)
• Newsweek, “Volkswagen Recalls Over 114,000 Vehicles in US Over Airbag Explosion Risk” (2024)

The post Volkswagen Hybrids Recalled Over Fire Risk — Is Yours On the List? appeared first on Family Handyman.

Here’s a look at some of the reported troubles impacting Cybertruck performance and why snow can pose such a problem for the tech-focused truck.

Clogged lights

Cybertrucks have a slick, minimalist design meant to evoke a futuristic look. Unfortunately, that design creates areas where snow can build up and get trapped, leading to obstruction of the lights.

“The lights get clogged with snowfall,” reads a Nov. 29 post on the CyberStuck subreddit from a Cybertruck owner in Vermont. “Then, the bits that melt freeze and create a sort of ice wall blocking the lights.”

When you’re driving in the winter, your lights are essential for safety. Any obstruction to your lights should be immediately removed.

Getting stuck in snow

Since its release, there have been many online reports of Cybertrucks getting stuck in the snow. However, there isn’t really anything specific about the Cybertruck’s design that makes it particularly susceptible to getting stuck in a snowdrift. Getting stuck in snow often comes down to tire quality, so as long as you swap the stock tires on your Cybertruck for some snow tires.

Corrosion from salt

With their gleaming stainless steel surfaces, preventing rust is an obvious priority when it comes to Cybertruck maintenance. That might be harder in areas with more frequent snow. The road salt used in these areas can build up on the stainless steel surface and cause rust. Cybertruck owners should regularly wash their vehicles in the winter to ensure that road salt does not harm any protective coating and leave the steel vulnerable.

Sources:

• Reddit, “‘The light gets clogged with snowfall‘” (2024)
• Yahoo Finance, “Cybertrucks Are A Disaster Now, But Winter Will Be A Nightmare” 2024
• Jalopnik, “Cybertrucks Keep Getting Stuck In Snow” 2024
• Business Insider, “Tesla’s ‘apocalypse-proof’ Cybertruck thwarted by sand, snow, and regulator recalls.” 2024
• Business Insider, “The Cybertruck’s steel exterior could need extra protection from winter road salt” 2024

The post Why Tesla Cybertrucks Struggle In Snowy Conditions appeared first on Family Handyman.

It is easy to overlook the engine air filter located beneath the hood, but it is critical to the life and performance of your engine. Changing the air filter in your vehicle is a simple and straightforward automotive maintenance task that typically requires no tools other than maybe a screwdriver. Follow along as we walk through the process.

What Does a Car Air Filter Do?

An air filter is constructed from treated pulp paper folded into pleats to trap harmful airborne contaminants from reaching your engine. According to automotive expert Bob Lacivita, a clean engine air filter provides better fuel economy by maintaining the optimum air-to-fuel ratio. It Improves the acceleration and performance by allowing the maximum amount of air to enter the combustion chamber. It also increases mass airflow (MAF) sensor accuracy, reduces vehicle emissions, and prolongs engine life by keeping the smallest grit out of the engine.

How Often Should You Change Your Car Air Filter

You should replace your air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, but it might need to be replaced more often depending on your driving environment. If you drive in a dusty environment often, you will want to change your air filter sooner than 12,000 miles. I live in the suburbs of the Midwest, so I like to change my air filter once a year.

Purchase a replacement engine air filter

Not all cars require the same size air filter. You can find the size your car needs in the owner’s manual or online. Most auto parts stores allow you to input your vehicle’s year, make, and model on their website or on a kiosk at the store to determine which air filter is compatible with your car.

The post Changing Your Car’s Air Filter: How and When To Do It appeared first on Family Handyman.

Imagine if that button wasnt there. The latch plate would just slide all the way down to the base of the seat belt, making it a pain to grab when youre ready to buckle up. Thanks to this simple button, the latch plate stays in an easy-to-reach spot, saving you time and frustration.

Where is the Stop Button Located?

Most seat belts actually have two of these buttons. One is near the latch plate to keep it from sliding down toward the floor, and the other is closer to the top, preventing the metal piece from slipping too far up toward the shoulder strap. Together, they make sure the seat belt stays in the right position for when you need it.

What Happens if Your Stop Button Breaks?

Over time, these buttons can wear out or even break off, but theyre easy to replace. You can find replacement buttons online or at auto stores, and theyre pretty simple to install with basic tools.

Its one of those little things you dont really think about until its gone. But once you realize how much hassle that button saves youand how it helps keep the seat belt working as it shouldyoull definitely appreciate its small but mighty job.

The post Do You Know What That Little Button on Your Seat Belt Is For? appeared first on Family Handyman.

Why Is GM Recalling Some of Its Vehicles?

According to the NHTSA brief, some GM vehicles are experiencing malfunctions with the tailgate’s electronic gate-release switch. This switch “may short circuit due to water intrusion,” causing the tailgate to unlatch while in park. This is dangerous because “an unlatched tailgate may open and result in a loss of unsecured cargo, creating a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.”

Which GM Vehicles Have These Tailgate Issues?

Over 130,000 GM vehicles have been recalled due to this tailgate issue, including the:

• 2024 Chevrolet Silverado HD 2500
• 2024 Chevrolet Silverado HD 3500
• GMC Sierra HD 2500
• GMC Sierra HD 3500

GM will mail letters to the affected owners in mid-January 2025. So, if you own one of the vehicles on this list, keep an eye on your mailbox. The owner’s letter will have more information.

What To Do If You Have a Recalled GM Truck

Per the NHTSA brief, GM “dealers will replace the exterior touchpad switch assemblies, free of charge.” So don’t delay; get this remedied as soon as you can. If you don’t want to wait for your letter, or if you have further questions, you can contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. Be sure to clarify that you’re calling about recall number N242469160; it’s an expansion of NHTSA Recall 24V-060.

In the meantime, if you have one of the affected GM vehicles, be sure to double-check your tailgate every time you get into the car until the issue has been remedied. Limit your use of the car as much as possible until then. You don’t want to be the reason for a pileup on the highway or a crash on the way home from the hardware store.

Source

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Why Are Hyundai Vehicles Being Recalled?

According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), Hyundai is recalling vehicles due to “a damaged printed circuit board.” This damage prevents the backup cam footage from displaying, which limits visibility. Parallel parking, three-point turns, and even just basic safety checks are harder to do without the backup cam footage.

The NHTSA brief explains that this failure means that the impacted vehicles do not “comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, ‘Rear Visibility.'” As such, these vehicles are not as safe to drive as they should be. “A rearview image that does not display reduces the driver’s visibility and increases the risk of a crash,” the brief warns.

Which Hyundai Vehicles Are Recalled?

The faulty backup cams have affected over 226,000 Hyundai vehicles so far. If you own any of the following Hyundai vehicles, yours may be one of them:

• 2021 Santa Fe
• 2021 Santa Fe HEV
• 2021 Elantra
• 2021 Elantra HEV
• 2022 Santa Fe
• 2022 Santa Fe HEV
• 2022 Elantra
• 2022 Elantra HEV
• 2022 Elantra N
• 2022 Santa Fe PHEV

Hyundai will send letters to the affected owners in mid-January 2025, so keep an eye on your mailbox just to be safe. If you already know that you have one of the Hyundai vehicles with a faulty backup cam, exercise extra caution when driving it. The limited visibility may have a larger impact than you think.

What’s the Solution?

Hyundai dealers will replace the faulty backup cams free of charge. Once you’ve gotten your letter and know for sure that your vehicle is impacted, you can schedule an appointment for your car to be serviced. If you don’t want to wait for the letter, or still have questions after reading over it, you can call Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. The number for this recall is 271. You can also call the NHTSA at 1-888-327-4236; this recall is NHTSA campaign number 24V879000.

Source

Rearview Image May Not Display/ FMVSS 111, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 2024.

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Winterize Your Vehicle

Get your EV/hybrid ready for winter driving the same way you’d winterize a non-hybrid car. Start by checking the condition, levels and protection levels of fluids. Our cars’ fluids protect, clean, lubricate, cool, cushion, transfer power and absorb the vibration of thousands of moving parts.

• Coolant: Test the coolant condition and coolant protection levels.
  • PRO TIP: Leave checking and servicing battery coolant found in EVs to the pros.
• Motor oil: Degraded motor oil will thicken during winter. Change motor oil regularly. To reduce wear and tear on an ICE, it is critical to use your vehicle manufacturer’s recommended type, viscosity and weight motor oil and oil filter only.
• Filters: Check and replace engine air, fuel (ICE) and cabin air filters. Clean filters help an ICE run more efficiently and help increase performance. The cabin air filter not only helps prevent dust, road dirt and other airborne pollutants from entering the passenger compartment, it also allows warmed air to circulate more freely to help quickly warm up the interior. Some EV/hybrids have a high-voltage battery cooling intake filter. Check, clean or replace the filter every 5,000 miles to maintain optimal battery performance.
• Spark plugs and ignition wires: For optimum performance and fuel economy, check (and replace, if necessary) spark plugs and ignition wires on ICE.
  • WARNING: Stay away from high voltage (usually orange) wires.
• Windshield wiper fluid: Washer solvent has only one job: help clean the windshield so you can drive safely. Use the correct type of washer solvent for your driving conditions.
• Hood and trunk (or frunk) strut rods/shocks: Joe Simes ASE and Toyota Master Technician, mentioned that “on older vehicles, the strut rods that hold the hood, trunk or hatchback open can weaken.” He suggests that on the first cold day of the season, you “check to make sure they keep the hood fully open.” Replace strut rods in pairs if they unexpectedly or slowly close on their own. Replacing strut rods is an easy DIY repair.

The post 15 Essential Winter Maintenance Tips for EVs and Hybrid Cars appeared first on Family Handyman.

“This reminds me of the viral headlight cleaning hack that advised people to use bug spray that contained DEET,” says Parham Koukia, lead detailer and operations manager at Panda Hub. “It makes it looks nice and clear at the time, but you’re creating more work for yourself further down the road because it results in long-term damage to the polycarbonate and quicker hazing.”

So is this deodorant hack legit, or just a new version of old hype? Here’s what we found out when we talked to experts and put it to the test.

The Deodorant Car Headlight Hack, Explained

In this viral TikTok video, the host explains how any stick of deodorant containing the ingredient zirconium (which is most of them) “can save you a lot of time and make your vehicle more safe for the winter.” Just rub it on the headlights, then use a paper towel to buff it out until all of the film is gone.

The host claims he does this once a month, and it keeps his headlights free of ice and snow, cleans them and helps reduce yellowing and moisture inside.

Can Deodorant Really Prevent Ice From Forming?

Perhaps. According to the National Institutes of Health, Zirconium acetate is used in the manufacturing of waterproof chemicals, including antiperspirants, printing inks and paints, so in theory, it could keep moisture from sticking to the outside of the headlight lens. It is also possible that oils or other chemicals in deodorant could disrupt ice crystal formation.

We tested it by rubbing deodorant on a portion of a headlight (inside edge in the photo), and the next morning, there were fewer, but still some ice crystals in that spot. But this wasn’t a highly scientific experiment, and surely factors that determine its effectiveness would range widely, including relative humidity and ambient air temperature (this experiment was conducted with a low of around 10 degrees).

Can Deodorant Really Clean Headlights?

Yes, technically, deodorant can clean headlights. “But so can toothpaste, coke, urine, gasoline and Jack Daniels,” says Chris “Moose” Pyle, an automotive expert with JustAnswer.com. “Anything with chemicals, acids or grit will clean headlights. However, many can also damage them, get short-lived results, or just make scratches shiny and wet, which temporarily hides damage.”

Deodorant isn’t formulated to clean headlights, especially those made with polycarbonate covers, says Koukia. “While it might remove minor surface dust and greasy films in a pinch, it lacks the abrasives or chemical compounds needed to break down oxidation, the real cause of yellowed, hazy headlights,” he says.

Can Deodorant Prevent Headlights From Yellowing?

Again, yes, technically, a little. Deodorant on headlights could help a little with yellowing because that is caused by polycarbonate lenses drying out from exposure to the sun and headlamp heat. Because deodorant has some oil in it, that could slightly help replenish those oils on the lens, says Pyle, but it won’t stop yellowing once it’s started. Also, deodorant doesn’t offer protection against UV rays, which means it’s not a good long-term solution.

Can Deodorant Prevent Moisture Buildup Inside a Headlight?

Nope, deodorant won’t stop moisture buildup. Moisture inside headlamps can happen for two reasons: from normal condensation or because there’s a breach in the casing from a crack or bad gasket. “Rubbing some Old Spice on the lens it not go to reseal the headlight,” says Pyle.

As for condensation, “This is a normal occurrence, and the condensation typically evaporates through vents in the back of the lamp,” says Eric Ruble, a senior communications specialist with Nissan. “If condensation occurs inside a lamp, turning on the lights can help dissipate moisture.”

Should I Use Deodorant On My Headlights?

It’s probably not a great idea. “Using deodorant isn’t worth it unless you value your headlights smelling like your armpits,” says Koukia. While it could make them look better temporarily, you also run the risk of damaging the plastic or clear coat, especially if you try this as a long-term solution, he says.

“It could also leave residue, which will cause more things to stick to it, or add more abrasions, meaning it could get hazy quicker with every application,” says Koukia.

Ruble says engineers on the Nissan headlight team also recommend against using deodorant or any other product not intentionally designed for headlight care. “Our headlamps feature a protective coating rigorously tested with automotive headlamp cleaners to ensure durability and effectiveness,” he says. “Using incompatible products may damage this coating, reducing its ability to prevent yellowing, chipping cracking and fogging.”

What Are Alternatives to Using Deodorant on Headlights?

For ice and snow, brush loose snow away from the lenses and turn on the headlights. The heat from the lamps is likely to thaw a thin layer of ice. To get that accomplished more quickly, especially if you have to drive at night or in inclement weather, spray them with a deicer, which you can buy or DIY by combining vinegar and water or rubbing alcohol and water.

To prevent ice form forming on them in the first place, try spraying them with Rain X, which can sometimes prevent water from sticking to the glass long enough to freeze, or cover them with cardboard the night before.

As for yellowing, the best bet is using a headlight restoration kit, which will last longer and provide UV protection, says Koukia. “A quality headlight restoration kit will do a much better job of truly cleaning and polishing headlights, as well as protecting them for the future,” he says.

About the Experts

• Parham Koukia is lead detailer and operations manager at Panda Hub in Toronto. He has spent more than a decade mastering the art of car detailing, after turning his passion for automobiles into his profession.
• Chris “Moose” Pyle is a master-certified technician with 20-plus years of automotive experience. He has also worked as an expert for JustAnswer.com since 2006.
• Eric Ruble is senior communications specialist for technology and safety at Nissan.

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