An oil change is an essential part of vehicle maintenance. You can either get it done at the garage for a premium or change the oil yourself with the right set of tools. Although the process seems straightforward, there is room for errors here that can affect vehicle performance. From missing key steps to using the wrong type of oil, here are a few common oil change mistakes to avoid: Overfilling or underfilling the engine You should pay attention to the oil levels and the recommended amount of oil the engine needs. If you fill it up to the brim, the fluid will leak into the gaskets and pistons, stalling the engine. If you add too little oil, excessive friction will damage the engine. You need to add just the right amount as per the user manual. Choosing the wrong type of oil The right oil type can vary depending on the type of vehicle and the driving conditions. Premium synthetic motor oil is built to survive weather changes due to its high viscosity and resistance to oxidation. Some owners may prefer high-mileage oils that improve engine performance and boost mileage. Generic or conventional motor oils, the cheapest option, are ideal for simple engine designs and regular driving conditions.

Learning to drive can help one commute to different locations independently. For many, driving changes from a necessary skill to a passion. However, since drivers are single-handedly in charge of their vehicles, they must always be vigilant to avoid accidents. Unfortunately, the country witnesses approximately six million car accidents each year. Hence, in addition to understanding the technicalities of driving, new drivers should avoid certain common mistakes to ensure safety: Refusing to wear a seatbelt Seatbelts are meant to ensure that drivers and passengers are safe inside their vehicles, even in the event of a car crash. Thus, drivers should request that all passengers, particularly those in the passenger seats, fasten their seatbelts to prevent the risk of injuries during car accidents or sudden jerks. Speeding As per statistical reports, speeding accounted for 29% of all traffic fatalities in 2021. Individual state legislatures have established specific speed limits for different types of roads. Drivers should look for signs bearing speed limits and follow them to avoid speeding. Texting or speaking on the phone while driving According to data from the American Automobile Association, texting is the cause of 12% of vehicle crashes in the country. Texting typically involves using both hands; moreover, it requires one to comprehend the messages and actively develop suitable responses.

Buying an Electric Vehicle (EV) may be the right choice for someone looking for a sustainable and affordable vehicle option. Over the years, there have been many technological developments and improvements in the manufacturing of electric vehicles. This means there is the option of buying efficient cars that are better for the environment. However, there are some things to know and mistakes to avoid before purchasing an electric car. These are as follows: 1. Not claiming tax benefit Individuals who buy a new electric vehicle can qualify for a federal tax credit of up to $7,500. Apart from this, some state and local rebates give more money. Some of these rebates, in some cases, are even provided by the power companies. 2. Not regularly charging the vehicle EVs run on charge, which is the whole basis of this vehicle. A planned charging schedule is paramount to ensuring that the vehicle is readily available whenever needed, especially during emergencies. One of the perks of using an EV is that one can easily charge it at home. It may be slow, but it’ll do the job, and in a couple of hours, one will have a full battery. Many people usually charge their EVs in the evening after work, and by the morning, the cars are 100% charged and can be used for travel in the city or otherwise.

Pickup trucks are the go-to picks for those who want high performance, good towing capacity, and exceptional cargo space. This type of automobile works is ideal for carrying heavy loads and even going on adventures. One can even use a pickup to haul a trailer on a camping trip. Here, RAM offers some of the most well-known trucks on the market. Nevertheless, one must consider the following things before buying a RAM truck: 1. Price A crucial factor one must consider before buying a RAM truck is the pricing and whether it fits within the budget. One could review the features of various trims and choose one that meets all needs at an affordable price. For instance, the RAM 1500 is a more affordable choice than the RAM 2500. So, if one can make do with a light-duty truck, RAM 1500 would be the best choice. One should also check if they need additional features, like leather seats, a sunroof, and an upgraded sound system, as they may also drive up costs. 2. Fuel economy While RAM trucks are known for their towing and performance capabilities, it is important to check the fuel economy. Many RAM trucks offer a mileage of up to 20 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.

As the world gets accustomed to the idea of electric vehicles, more and more people are choosing to buy electric SUVs for their transport needs. This growing demand also helps the manufacturers stay on top of these demands and work on making the product more efficient for the road. It is essential to do one’s due diligence and research what’s available on the market, and here are some of the things to consider while buying an electric SUV. 1. Check its range In electric vehicles, range plays a huge role. But the kind of vehicle ad range to look out for depends on factors like whether one will use the car for long-distance travel or shorter commutes. According to some studies, most people living in cities commute around 32 miles on average. Those living outside in suburban or rural areas may have to travel longer distances to get things or for work, but otherwise, the average is low. So one should choose a vehicle with a range that suits their needs. 2. Consider incentives Most of the electric cars sold in the country are eligible for a one-time rebate of $7,500 in federal tax credit. Apart from that, there could be some state and local incentives that can provide further rebates.

Crossover Utility Vehicles, abbreviated as CUVs, occupy a unique spot in the vehicular hierarchy. These vehicles sit just below conventional trucks and compact SUVs and just above sedans, hatchbacks, and station wagons. As a result, these vehicles combine the best of both worlds: an SUV’s road presence and luxury mixed with the agility and urban mobility of sedans and hatchbacks. If one is looking to purchase these vehicles, here are some things to consider beforehand: Flexible seating Buyers may eschew purchasing an SUV to go for CUVs, but they usually tend to prioritize the seating flexibility that the larger vehicles provide while going through their CUV options. Buyers should always look for room for flexibility in the second and third rows of seats in their CUV. The CUV must have provisions for users to adjust their seats forward and backward. This helps expand the vehicle’s overall cargo space and also increases the legroom and headroom for the occupants. What’s more, flexibility in the second and third row of seating is an indicator of a vehicle’s versatility, as that puts the “Utility” in a CUV. Ease and comfort in driving CUVs must be just as effortless to drive around town as a hatchback.

For those looking for a car that combines the functionality of an SUV with luxury, the BMW X5 is an excellent option to consider. Originally launched in 1999, the car is now in its fourth generation and is one of the most coveted cars in the luxury segment. But with the price tag on the higher end, many often prefer to lease the car instead of purchasing it. While this is a more affordable option, there are certain points one needs to be careful of while leading an X5: 1. Being hesitant to negotiate the price Many people often hesitate to negotiate the price while leasing a car, especially if it belongs to the luxury category. However, since leasing the X5 is the most affordable option, one can negotiate a good deal. In fact, it is not just the price of the car; there are many other costs involved that can be negotiated. For instance, a customer may choose to negotiate a lower price based on the value of the trade-in, the dealer’s fee, and any other add-ons that may be involved. 2. Not knowing one’s credit score Before heading to an X5 dealership, one must know their credit score.

Instead of buying a new car, opting for a used one can be a smart way to save money. Not only will you save money on the car’s cost, but other expenses such as car insurance, registration, taxes, and more will also become affordable. Additionally, buying a pre-owned car allows one to reap the benefits of depreciation borne by the first owner. If you plan on buying a used car, here are a few tips to consider. Set a budget before buying the car While a pre-owned car is often cheaper than buying a new car, there is still the possibility of overspending. This is because sometimes people end up liking a late-model used car, which can be considerably more expensive than a new car. Therefore, it is advisable to limit one’s options by setting up a budget. List your requirements (features of the car) When buying a used car with a fixed budget, it can be overwhelming and confusing to choose from the numerous available options. To simplify the process, it is essential to identify the features that are essential for your travel needs. For example, if you require a family car, you should look for models that have a roomy cabin with sufficient cargo space.