CarParts.com Research Team

Automotive and Tech Writers

The CarParts.com Research Team is composed of experienced automotive and tech writers working with (ASE)-certified automobile technicians and automotive journalists to bring up-to-date, helpful information to car owners in the US. Guided by CarParts.com's thorough editorial process, our team strives to produce guides and resources DIYers and casual car owners can trust.

What Is a Tone Ring and Can You Fix It in Place?

Summary Also known as the reluctor ring, the tone ring is the part of the wheel speed sensor that sends…

1 year ago

Tips To Remove a Stuck Leaf Spring Bolt

Summary An air chisel or impact hammer is the perfect tool to push the bolt stuck in the leaf spring…

1 year ago

Steering Wheel Locked Up: Causes and How to Fix It

Summary There is a difference between “difficult to steer” and locked up. If your steering wheel locks up when driving,…

1 year ago

Celebrity Car Matches: Which Stars Have the Same Car as You?

Summary F1 legend Lewis Hamilton owns a Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class. Leonardo DiCaprio uses a Toyota Prius to help reduce fuel consumption…

1 year ago

Were These Iconic Cartoon Cars Part of Your Childhood?

Summary Iconic cartoon cars from the ’60s include the Cavemobile from “The Flintstones,” the flying car from “The Jetsons,” and…

1 year ago

Impress Your Date by Recreating These Romantic Car Scenes

Summary There are plenty of romantic car scenes from movies that you can recreate to impress your date. You don’t…

1 year ago

You Won’t Believe How Many Car Crashes are Tire-Related

Summary The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that tire failure causes 11,000 vehicle accidents every year. In 2022,…

1 year ago

Car Consultant Shows How to Use These Basic Car Tools From CarParts.com

Automotive consultant 2jz_rotary is back to share more practical tips for car owners. This time, she focuses on three key…

2 years ago

Wayne Banga Completes His Car Repairs Safely with Jack Stands from CarParts.com

Wayne Banga, an avid car enthusiast, recently tackled a brake job on his BRZ and knew he needed to improve…

2 years ago

Patty Gill Uses OBD-II Scanner From CarParts.com to Diagnose Check Engine Light Issues

Patty Gill and her husband, Shane, love exploring the open road in their trusty truck camper. For the past five…

2 years ago

These Car, Tire, and Steering Wheel Covers Keep the Dust and Dirt Off

Summary A car cover conveniently protects your car as it sits parked in a parking space, your garage, or by…

2 years ago

Does Running the Air Conditioner Use More Gas?

Summary The fuel-efficient choice between driving with the A/C on and driving with the windows down will depend on several…

2 years ago

Common Types of Mufflers

Summary The common types of mufflers are chambered, straight-through, glasspack, and turbo mufflers. Consider noise reduction, sound adjustment, and space…

2 years ago

Tips for How To Test Brake Lights

Summary Testing your brake lights can be as simple as having a friend or family member stand behind the vehicle…

2 years ago

When Should You Check Your Engine’s Oil Levels?

Summary It’s generally a good idea to check your engine’s oil levels every month or before a long drive. Checking…

2 years ago

Car Cleaning Supplies You Need To Keep Your Ride Looking Good

Summary There are different cleaners and solutions on the market that you’ll want to pick up. Car shampoo, wheel cleaner,…

2 years ago

10 Essential Car Accessories for New Drivers

Summary New drivers should consider getting a back up camera and blind spot mirror because they can help improve driver…

2 years ago

Gift Ideas for the Avid DIYer

Summary To make life easier for a DIYer, you can gift them tire brushes, floor jacks, wax applicator pads, and…

2 years ago

Exterior Detailing Essentials: Must-Haves to Keep In Your Garage

Summary Detailing involves cleaning, waxing, and protecting the vehicle’s exterior. You should detail your vehicle’s exterior at least twice a…

2 years ago

Staying Warm in Your Car Without the Heater

Summary Cover your parked car to keep it from getting too cold during the night. Add seat covers and a…

2 years ago

Improve Your Exhaust Note With These Exhaust System Parts

Summary Exhaust parts like headers, mufflers, resonators, and exhaust tips can affect your vehicle’s exhaust note. Each part can change…

2 years ago

Car Temperature Gauges: Mechanical vs. Electric

Summary Your vehicle’s temperature gauge is a part of its emissions control system. The gauge measures engine coolant temperatures, relaying…

2 years ago

Tips on How To Use a Mass Air Flow Sensor Cleaner

Summary To clean your MAF sensor, you’ll need to prepare the necessary tools, let the engine cool down first, and…

2 years ago

Tips on How to Test the Radiator Fan

Summary There are a few ways to test the radiator fan. You can connect the radiator fan to the car…

2 years ago

Can You Skip Gears When Downshifting?

Summary It’s generally safe to skip gears when downshifting as long as you release the clutch when the vehicle has…

2 years ago

How Long Does a Transmission Last? Plus FAQs

Summary The transmission is like any other part of your car. It can fail after some time and render your…

2 years ago

Why is My Car Starting Slow? Slow Start Causes and Prevention

Summary Struggling to start your car is not only a hassle but also a possible sign of larger car problems.…

2 years ago

Causes of Excessive Play on the Steering Wheel, Explained

Summary Excessive play refers to when the steering wheel feels loose. It typically forces the driver to overcompensate while steering…

2 years ago

Natasha Adams Quickly Restores Her F-100 With Monroe Shocks From CarParts.com

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Natasha Adams (@natashaddams) The shocks on Natasha Addam’s Ford F-100 pickup…

2 years ago

The Most Recommended Accessories for Towing a Trailer

Summary If you plan on driving with a trailer, make sure to get hitches, tow chains, hitch links, and gooseneck…

2 years ago

Battery Hold Down: What It Is, Benefits, Types, and More

Summary A battery hold down secures the battery in place to prevent it from moving when driving. Using a battery…

2 years ago

A Brief History of Automotive Mirrors

Summary The first rear-view mirror was introduced when part-time racer Ray Harroun installed one on his Marmon Wasp during the…

2 years ago

Handy Tools and Tips for a DIY Oil Change

Summary Regularly changing the oil keeps your engine clean. It also prevents dirt and debris from damaging the engine. Some…

2 years ago

Exhaust Coupling Alternatives (No Welding Needed)

Summary Installing an exhaust coupler is a cost-effective way to save a damaged exhaust pipe.You can use U-bolts, band sleeves,…

2 years ago

Fraying Seat Belt: Salvageable or Not?

Summary The seat belt material is 100% woven polyester. The webbing pattern of the seat belt makes it resistant to…

2 years ago

Vehicle Parts to Check Before Your 4th of July Road Trip

The summer heat presents specific challenges that cause vehicles to break down. This year is going to be especially challenging,…

2 years ago

Exploding Tires: Why They Happen and How to Prevent Them

Summary Tires can explode due to the rapid loss of pressurized air caused by heat. Some things that can cause…

2 years ago

Tire and Wheel Care Must-Haves for Every Car Owner

Summary Having to endure rough roads and adverse weather conditions, it’s only fitting that you give your tires the same…

2 years ago

When to Junk Your Car: Signs to Look Out For

Summary Perhaps the most obvious sign to junk your car is if your repair bills are worth more than the…

2 years ago

Here’s Why Mechanics Always Wear Automotive Gloves

Summary Automotive gloves are safety equipment that protect your hands from possible injuries, improve grip, prevent calluses, and keep you…

2 years ago

Bad Strut Mount Bearing Symptoms: When Should You Replace It?

Summary Common signs a strut mount bearing needs replacement include steering difficulties, uneven tire wear, and squeaking noises when driving.If…

2 years ago

What to Do If a Valet Attendant Damages Your Vehicle

Summary If the valet attendant damages your car, inform the attendant and their superior and get a damage report. It’s…

2 years ago

The Best Types of Seat Covers to Spruce up Your Vehicle’s Interior

Summary Seat covers are made of different materials, giving them unique properties that make them more desirable to certain people.…

2 years ago

Replacement Headlight Bulbs That’ll Upgrade Your Headlight’s Performance

Summary Some of the best headlight bulbs out there include Philips VisionPlus, Philips Crystal Vision Platinum, Replacement HID (high-intensity discharge)…

2 years ago

How the Jaws of Life Work

Summary The Jaws of Life are a lifesaving device that firefighters use to extricate people out of crashed vehicles and…

2 years ago

How Does a Steering Wheel Return to Center?

Summary The caster angle and self-aligning torque work together to make the steering wheel return to the center position. If…

2 years ago

Possible Causes of a Hard-Shifting Automatic Transmission

Summary Low transmission fluid, faulty speed sensors, bad shift solenoids, and a damaged valve body are some of the reasons…

2 years ago

Garage Organizer Ideas and Options

Summary A cluttered area can make you feel stressed, anxious and less productive, so it’s best to keep your garage…

2 years ago

10 Essential Car Storage Solutions for Clutter-Free Travel

Summary A roof rack, cargo rack, and cargo organizer can help you carry bulky cargo in your vehicle. Cargo bags,…

2 years ago

How to Accessorize Like Iconic TV Cars

Summary You can feel like you’re inside one of Magnum, P.I.’s Ferrari sports cars by installing seat covers that match…

2 years ago

5 Popular Lights for Off-Road to Consider

Summary Some of the best off-road light series to consider include the KC Hilites Gravity series, Baja Designs S8 series,…

2 years ago

Car Interior Cleaning Tools and Products You Need

Summary Cleaning your vehicle’s interiors is an inevitable and necessary chore. Pick up the correct type of cleaner for the…

2 years ago

10 Essential Car Upgrades for Expectant Mothers

Summary Getting a new seat cushion, seat belt extender arm, and seat belt pads can make driving much more comfortable…

2 years ago

Keeping Cool in Your Car Without the A/C

Summary Park in the shade as much as possible and use a windshield sun shade in your vehicle. When you’re…

2 years ago

Natasha Adams Easily Installs Jeep Comanche PowerStop Brakes From CarParts.com

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Natasha Adams (@natashaddams) Natasha Addam’s Jeep Comanche is finally on its…

2 years ago

Noah Young Loves How Easy it Is To Order and Install a GMC Sierra Bed Liner From CarParts.com

View this post on Instagram A post shared by CarParts.com (@carpartscom) Noah Young’s old farm truck bed has certainly seen…

2 years ago

German Cars That Are Worth Every Penny

Summary German cars have always been associated with a luxurious lifestyle, donning leather upholstery, advanced infotainment features, clean exterior lines,…

2 years ago

Suspension Upgrades for Better Ride Quality

Summary Suspension parts are all about absorbing road impact to give you a smooth and comfortable driving experience. Air suspension…

2 years ago

Practical and Stylish: Must-Have Interior Accessories for Your Vehicle

Summary Drivers looking to keep their ride clean and organized won’t regret getting an air freshener, cargo mat, floor mat,…

2 years ago

Must-Have Accessories for Family Cars

Summary Make road trips with your family safer, more comfortable, organized, and hassle-free with various accessories. For safety and organization,…

2 years ago

Handy Garage Tools and Accessories for New Drivers

Summary New drivers should make it a point to get floor tiles, jacks, and car ramps for their garage. Safety…

2 years ago

Tips and Vehicle Upgrades for Better Handling

Summary Handling is always an important factor to consider when in the market for a new or used vehicle. Essentially,…

2 years ago

Why Is Leather Upholstery So Popular?

Summary Leather upholstery is popular because the material is durable and easy to clean. It’s also a symbol of luxury…

2 years ago

Modern Upgrades for Classic Vehicles: Performance, Safety, Handling, and Comfort

Summary You can improve a classic car's performance by installing a fuel injection system, upgrading the engine, and investing in…

2 years ago

What Does AMG in Mercedes-Benz Stand For?

Summary AMG stands for Aufrecht, Melcher, and Großaspach, named after its two founders and the town where Hans Werner Aufrecht…

2 years ago

Automotive Window Glass: A Brief Guide

Summary The common types of automotive window glass are laminated glass and tempered glass.Laminated glass is very tough, deflects outside…

2 years ago

What Exactly Are Suicide Doors on a Car?

Summary Unlike traditional doors that hinge near the front tires, suicide doors are rear-hinged doors on the side of a…

2 years ago

When Should You Replace Your Vehicle’s Weatherstripping?

Summary You can expect your vehicle’s weatherstripping to last anywhere between 5 to 10 years. Once your vehicle reaches this…

2 years ago

Ways To Customize Your Car Body Without a New Paint Job

Summary Customizing your vehicle can be fun, but do you really want to stick to boring old paint jobs? Use…

2 years ago

10 Must-Have Car Accessories for Your Desert Camping Trip

Summary Get ready for your next desert camping trip by getting a high-quality rooftop tent, off-road lights, and sun shades.…

2 years ago

Choosing the Right Tail Lights For Your Car

Summary When choosing the right tail lights, you should consider their light source and lens color. Halogen, incandescent, LED, and…

2 years ago

Best Performance Brakes: Rotors and Pads for Your Weekend Track Car

Summary Overall, all the brake pads and rotors in this list are a great upgrade from stock brake discs and…

2 years ago

Advanced DIY: Vehicle Body Repair Items

Summary Over time, your vehicle’s body will inevitably end up scuffed and scarred. Good thing there are a number of…

2 years ago

Top 10 Accessories Every Parent Needs to Babyproof Their Car

Summary A child car seat protector keeps your seats safe from spilled milk, crumbs, and other messes, making it a…

2 years ago

Most Recommended Car Mirror Features

Summary Whether it’s manually-adjusted, manual remotely-adjusted, power-adjusted, or power upper and manually-adjusted lower glass, car mirrors let you set their…

2 years ago

Car Safety Essentials: Tools and Equipment You Need on the Road

Summary In case of tire emergencies, you'll want to have a tire pressure gauge, a tire inflator, and a spare…

2 years ago

Cheapest Car Mods Under $100

Summary There are hundreds of affordable upgrades in the market that won’t cost you thousands of dollars but are enough…

2 years ago

Daily Driver Must-Haves for the Long Drive on Route 66

Summary Spanning approximately 2,400 miles, Route 66 takes you across eight states and three time zones. The drive usually begins…

2 years ago

Why Mud Flaps For Semi-Trucks Are Necessary

Summary Mud flaps protect vehicles and pedestrians from potentially dangerous projectiles flung by a truck’s tires. Mud flaps for semi-trucks…

2 years ago

The Best Performance Brake Pads for Your Daily Driver

Summary Akebono Euro Ultra Series pads are probably the easiest to recommend if you want a brake pad that does…

2 years ago

10 Car Accessories That Make Bike Transport a Breeze

Summary Investing in a high-quality bike rack, cargo ramp, and cargo mat can make transporting your bike easier. With your…

2 years ago

Why Don’t Sedans Have Rear Windshield Wipers?

Summary Sedans generally don’t have windshield wipers on their rear windshields. Some of the reasons for not putting a rear…

2 years ago

Flat, Ball, and Acorn Lug Nuts: Seating Styles Explained

Summary The seat is the part of the lug nut that sits flush against the wheel surface. Different wheels have…

2 years ago

Is a Tire Pressure Monitoring System Sensor Battery Replacement Possible?

Summary TPMS sensor batteries aren’t designed to be replaced. A layer of potting material seals the battery and other electronic…

2 years ago

Car Engine Cover FAQ

Summary The car engine cover is a part that covers the engine. Some engine covers have the air filter built…

2 years ago

Do Tire-Balancing Beads Work?

Summary Tire-balancing beads are small tempered glass beads that are poured inside a tire. They settle in an appropriate position…

2 years ago

What You Need To Know About Polyurethane Bushing Grease

Summary Polyurethane bushings keep the metal parts in your vehicle from wearing down too much as they rub against each…

2 years ago

How To Drain a Torque Converter

Summary Some believe that torque converters don’t need flushing. They claim that dirty transmission fluid actually improves the transmission’s grip…

2 years ago

Refrigerant Leak Detector vs. UV Refrigerant Dye

Summary UV leak detection injects refrigerant dye into the A/C to locate refrigerant leaks. Electronic leak detection uses a sniffer…

2 years ago

What To Do When Metal Is Showing In Your Tire

Summary When a tire starts to show its wire bead, it’s either been damaged or driven past its expected lifespan.…

2 years ago

BMW Highway Assistant Explained

Summary Highway Assistant is a driver assistance system in BMW vehicles. It uses radars, cameras, and sensors to feed information…

2 years ago

Can I Use My EV for Powershare Home Backup?

Summary Bidirectional charging occurs when energy is sent in both directions. When plugged into a power source, the EV battery…

2 years ago

Frunk: The Meaning of Front Trunk

Summary The frunk is the EV’s front storage space. The term frunk is a portmanteau of the words front and…

2 years ago

What Is ACEA Oil? European Motor Oil Explained

Summary Like its American counterpart, European motor oil is distilled and processed with various additives to make it suitable for…

2 years ago

How To Use Gasket Remover Spray

Summary Spraying gasket remover on the gasket surface can make removing caked-on gasket and adhesive easier. Specific instructions can vary…

2 years ago

A Brief Guide on Aluminum and Copper Anti-Seize

Summary Anti-seize lubricant is a compound that prevents seizing, galling, and corrosion. Copper anti-seize lubricant is suitable for extremely high…

2 years ago

Power Brake Conversion: Tips, Kits, Parts, and More

Summary Power brakes use brake boosters to take the force you apply to your brake pedal and amplify it as…

2 years ago

Do Diesel Cars Need To Be Started Daily?

Summary You don’t have to run your diesel car every day. Most modern diesel vehicles are equipped with common rail…

2 years ago

Car Manufacturer Buyback: What It Is and Other FAQs

Summary A car manufacturer buyback is when an automobile manufacturer repurchases a car from the owner. There are two types…

2 years ago

Tips on Cleaning Drum Brakes

Summary Use either brake cleaner or soapy water to clean the drum brakes. Always apply brake lubricant to the drum…

2 years ago