Owing to their versatility and utility for multiple purposes, sport utility vehicles (SUVs) have become popular in recent years. SUVs are known for their increased interior space, improved towing capacity, and off-road capabilities compared to traditional cars. However, along with the surging demand for such vehicles, their safety attributes have become a decisive factor among automobile enthusiasts looking for a purchase. Read further to know some of the safest SUVs and their safety features. Importance of safety in SUVs Like any purchase, automobile buyers must be mindful of the safety features of the SUV they plan to bring home. Such vehicles are bigger, taller, and heavier than regular cars. They also come with a higher COG (center of gravity) and are more prone to rollovers. Safe SUVs to check out Dodge Durango The Dodge Durango has several safety features to protect the passengers, including electronic stability control, a backup camera, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. Other perks of the SUV include rain-sensing windshield wipers, lane departure warnings, advance brake assist, and more. If you want to buy a Dodge Durango and benefit from its safety features, visit the nearby local Dodge dealer, who can provide detailed information on the safety systems and other attributes.

Have you ever changed the car engine oil by yourself? If so, you are aware that it entails making various crucial technical decisions, like what kind of oil to use and how much to use. You must also adhere to certain directions for a successful oil change. Any error you make has the potential to harm the engine and reduce its lifespan. This article will discuss five common mistakes to avoid when changing engine oil. Why is it necessary to change the engine oil frequently? A car’s engine needs an oil change periodically, as the oil can wear off over time and lose its machine lubrication ability. Generally, the frequency of oil changes depends on several factors, such as the make and model of the car, the type of oil used, and the driver’s habits. In the past, it was recommended to change the oil every 3,000 miles or every three months, whichever came first. However, many modern cars can go for longer between oil changes. Most car manufacturers recommend an oil change after every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or every 6 to 12 months, whichever comes first. It’s important to check the owner’s manual of your specific car to determine the recommended oil change interval.

When searching for a new car, safety is a top priority for most buyers, even if it means paying extra for the chosen vehicle. With the latest advancements in safety technology, crash testing has become more rigorous and is now integrated into safety ratings. Although most new vehicles are safe, SUVs have become incredibly popular in the market. Therefore, in this article, we will explore some of the safest SUVs available in 2023. Acura MDX The 2023 Acura MDX is a beautiful and safe luxury midsize SUV that has earned high ratings from both the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The IIHS has given it the Top Safety Pick+ rating and a Good+ rating for its extra child seat anchor points. The NHTSA has awarded it the highest five-star overall safety rating for luxury midsize SUV models that have front-wheel drive (FWD) configurations. Although the All-Wheel Drive (AWD) models in the same segment did not receive a rollover resistance grade or an overall safety rating from the NHTSA, they achieved four stars in the front impact tests and five stars in the side impact evaluations. The Acura MDX comes equipped with many advanced safety features, including lane-keeping systems, automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring.

If you do an oil change or have a shop to do it, your car might not get the TLC it needs. Anyone who has ever changed their car’s oil may have committed one of the below-listed mistakes at some point. So, now is the time to learn from and avoid those mistakes. Refer to the list below of the top ten mistakes to avoid during an oil change. Not prepping for the oil change When you go for a professional oil change service, everything necessary for completing the oil change is within arm’s reach from the bottom of the vehicle’s engine. Walking around to fetch things can waste a lot of time. So when you change your oil, it is better to be equipped with every tool needed during the oil change. Thus, before beginning, have everything readily available. Not warming the engine The oil does not flow well if cold. Hence, draining oil from the cold engine can take a while. Some of the oil would not drain out of the cold engine, which would have come off if the engine had been warmed. Thus, start the vehicle and let it run for five to ten minutes to reach its operating temperature.

Car maintenance is an ongoing process. Any vehicle you buy, irrespective of the make, model, or brand, requires regular servicing, repairs, and upgrades to run smoothly. From the engine’s internal components to the external paint, there are hundreds of different tasks to be done periodically. Your vehicle warranty will cover a good part of the maintenance. However, first-time car owners unknowingly make these common mistakes that you should avoid at all costs. Ignoring safety lights There are several warning lights that flash on the dashboard to indicate engine failure, battery problems, and even electrical malfunctions. The manufacturer has installed these safety systems to prevent components from failing and causing an accident. So, when the check engine, oil, or battery light blinks once you turn over the ignition, take the vehicle straight to the repair shop or your car brand’s maintenance workshop. It may not necessarily be a major fix, but a repair that will prevent the car from breaking down completely. Routine checks and repairs might even be covered under your warranty if the vehicle is still practically new. Ignoring tire pressure Multiple factors lower tire air pressure and increase the risk of a blowout or rim damage while driving at high speeds.

Learning how to drive is exciting and nerve-wracking. As you equip yourself with the skills to make traveling easier, you also learn to pay attention to others on the road. Mistakes are bound to occur when learning to navigate a car in new circumstances. However, knowing these mistakes can help you avoid them and become a safer driver. Here are 12 mistakes new drivers make and how to avoid them: Ignoring speed limits Some new drivers feel overconfident once they receive their license and are more likely to overspeed. This can be extremely dangerous for them and others around them. Similarly, some drivers may feel underconfident and drive too slowly. This may also make them prone to more accidents, especially at intersections. To avoid these mistakes, follow the speed limit regulations specified for each area. These limits are decided upon by the state legislature, keeping in mind factors such as pedestrian movement, traffic flow, and roadway design. New drivers must regularly check for speed limit signs and follow them actively and routinely. Using the phone while driving According to the American Automobile Association, distracted driving kills about nine people and injures over 1,000 people every day across the country. Using the phone while driving, whether to text, call, or navigate, is one of the leading causes of accidents worldwide.

Road trips offer a fantastic opportunity to explore new places and create lasting memories. But before embarking on the journey, it’s crucial to inspect one’s vehicle, especially to check if the car’s safety is in place. Running these safety checks can help prevent potential breakdowns, accidents, and unexpected mishaps during the trip. Here are 18 must-do car safety checks that will make one’s road trip unforgettable for all the right reasons. Tire Health Properly inflated tires are crucial for optimal performance, fuel efficiency, and safety. Check the tire pressure using a reliable gauge and inspect them for signs of wear and damage. Ensure the tire pressure matches the manufacturer’s recommended levels, including the spare tire. Bald or worn-out tires can lead to reduced traction, increased stopping distances, and the risk of a blowout. Wheel Alignment Misaligned wheels can cause uneven tire wear, leading to decreased traction and compromised safety on the road. Before the road trip, one is advised to have a professional mechanic check and adjust the wheel alignment if necessary. This simple step can help maintain stability, prevent premature tire wear, improve fuel efficiency, and enable optimal handling of one’s vehicle. Brake System A responsive and efficient braking system is essential for passenger safety on the road.

Driving a big vehicle like a truck can be a challenge, especially for new drivers. Since truck driving usually means long hours of travel, it is crucial to be mindful of health and safety to avoid any mishaps on the road. Here are some errors that truck drivers should avoid while on the road that can help prevent accidents and other injuries. These tips can help you stay more alert. Going too fast Being a truck driver, it can get frustrating to be on the road for too long, and rushing to get to the destination can look inviting. However, this is a rookie mistake, not just from a safety point of view but also because the law asks drivers to follow a speed limit. The number on the speed limit signs is not just suggestive and expects drivers to follow the rules. This should especially be followed around curves on the highways, which can be tricky. Depending on any construction happening on the road, or if there are any parked vehicles on both sides of the road for some reason, the speed limit may change, so always be mindful of these signs. Ignoring road signs Aside from speed limit signs, it is important to pay attention to the other road signs as well.