CarParts.com Research Team

Tony Harlin is a Master Gas and Diesel Diagnostic Technician with over 18 years of experience. He works full-time at a large independent automotive shop as a driveability and repair technician working on all types of vehicles with a focus on diesels. ASE certifications include A1-A9, L1 and L2, as well as X1. Tony has a YouTube channel, “Nuts & Bolts with Tone,” with over 25,000 subscribers, devoted to automotive troubleshooting, repairs as well as tool demos and reviews. When not working on cars, Tony enjoys spending time with his three sons and wife in Sacramento, California. Credentials:
  • ASE A1-A9

  • L1 & L2 Advance Engine Performance Gas & Diesel X1 Exhaust Systems

From Bike Racks to Tents: The Best Car Accessories for Epic Fall Road Trips

Summary Some of the best accessories for driving during fall are the ones well-suited for activities outdoors, including but not…

2 months ago

Tips for Cleaning and Maintaining a Wrapped Car

Summary When cleaning a wrapped car, it’s best to do it away from the sun, dilute the car wash detergent,…

2 months ago

Car Light Accessories and Upgrades for Safe and Stylish Driving

Summary If you want to upgrade your headlights, consider getting an LED conversion kit and a headlight protector kit. Installing…

2 months ago

What is Automatic Collision Notification and How Does It Help Drivers?

Summary Automatic Collision Notification is a built-in safety feature that automatically alerts local emergency services when a vehicle crashes. It…

2 months ago

Get Back On the Road In a Jiffy with These All-In-One Repair Kits

Summary Replacing damaged or worn-out components that require multiple parts can be quite challenging, especially when they have to source…

2 months ago

Reasons to Keep a Fire Extinguisher in Your Car

Summary Keeping a fire extinguisher in your car is for safety and convenience purposes. It also ensures peace of mind.…

2 months ago

Your Vehicle Needs These Parking Assistance Devices

Summary While there are general guidelines as to how you should park your vehicle, the task can be quite complicated…

2 months ago

Must-have Items Under $100 to Personalize Your Ride

Summary One of the best ways to personalize your vehicle is to install interior and exterior accessories that don’t have…

3 months ago

Your Seasonal Car Maintenance Checklist for Long-Lasting Performance

Summary Changing weather conditions can do a number on your vehicle. Therefore, it’s important to conduct routine maintenance before the…

3 months ago

Engine Boosters for Less Than $500

Summary Huge engine upgrades can be quite costly, but there are some installations that are affordable and efficient at the…

3 months ago

Tips for First-Time Off-Roaders: How to Prepare Like a Pro

Summary Like every thrill-filled experience, you can combat the risks of off-road driving with proper preparation and knowledge. Make sure…

3 months ago

Drive Smart After Dark: Best Accessories for Night Driving

Summary Fog lights, LED light bars, and offroad lights are all incredibly useful for night driving – especially when traveling…

3 months ago

From Dull Car to Sports Car: Exterior Mods to Achieve a Performance-Ready Look

Summary Some car owners want to make their vehicles look like a mean machine on the outside as it is…

3 months ago

Car Care Tips: How to Remove and Prevent Paint Scuffs

Summary To remove scuffs, you can either use WD-40 on the area or buff it out. Scuffs are more superficial…

3 months ago

LED Light Bar: Function, Things to Consider, and More

Summary Some things to consider when choosing a light bar are its lumen output, size, and shape, among others. Light…

3 months ago

Tips for Buying a Used Beetle and Issues to Watch Out for

Summary When buying a used Volkswagen Beetle, always check for maintenance records, avoid older models, and be ready to spend…

3 months ago

Clip Removal Tools: Unlatch Clips and Push Pins With Ease

Summary Trim removal tools are essentially wedges that are meant to slot under vehicle body panels, interior trim pieces, and…

4 months ago

SUV vs Minivan: Finding the Perfect Vehicle for You

Summary SUVs are large vehicles with monocoque bodies that are high off the ground, making them ideal for off-road driving.…

4 months ago

Vortec Engine vs. LS Engine: A Brief Guide

Summary The differences between Vortec and LS engines include their materials, performance, and cylinder head design. You can usually swap…

4 months ago

What Is Clutch Control?

Summary Clutch control is a driver’s ability to smoothly and efficiently operate the clutch using the clutch pedal in conjunction…

4 months ago

5 Things Movies Always Get Wrong About Cars

Summary Vehicles don’t explode as soon as they catch fire; instead, they burn until there’s no fuel left to sustain…

4 months ago

Vehicle Upholstery 101: Tips for Cleaning Cloth Seats

Summary Before cleaning your cloth car seats, always vacuum the material to get rid of any dirt, crumbs, and other…

4 months ago

Must-Have Upgrades and Accessories for Your Next Offroad Adventure

Summary Drivers planning off-road adventures need to pack a portable air compressor, first aid kits, tire repair kits, recovery kits,…

4 months ago

Windshield Stains: Tips for Removing, Prevention, and More

Summary As a car owner, it’s your responsibility to make sure that your vehicle looks good on the outside as…

4 months ago

Car Waxing Mistakes to Avoid

Summary Any day above 81F isn’t a good day to wax your car. Extremely hot temperatures will cause the wax…

4 months ago

10 Must-Have Auto Upgrades for Elderly Drivers

Summary Elderly drivers who struggle with parking or switching lanes can get a back up camera or a blind spot…

4 months 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…

5 months 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…

5 months 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…

5 months 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…

5 months 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…

5 months 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…

5 months 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.Common…

5 months 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…

5 months 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…

5 months 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…

5 months 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 tire…

5 months 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…

5 months 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…

5 months 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.…

5 months 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)…

5 months 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…

5 months 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…

5 months 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…

5 months 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…

5 months 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…

5 months 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…

5 months 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…

5 months 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…

5 months 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…

5 months 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…

5 months 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…

5 months 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…

5 months 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…

5 months 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…

5 months 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…

5 months 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…

5 months 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…

5 months 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 temperatures…

5 months 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…

5 months 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…

5 months ago

Mounting a Spare Tire on a Trailer and Other Unique Places

Summary You can use a spare tire mount to mount the tire onto your vehicle instead of storing it in…

5 months ago

How To Fix Cigarette Burns in Your Car

Summary Cigarette burns can damage your car’s upholstery, but you can fix the burned parts. Fabric, leather, and vinyl seat…

5 months ago

Tips on How To Fix Broken Plastic Automotive Trim Parts

Summary Plastic trim tends to grow brittle over time and its color fades after a few years of sun exposure.…

5 months ago

What Is Proactive Driving Assist?

Summary Proactive Driving Assist (PDA) proactively adjusts the vehicle’s speed, steering, and other factors to prevent potential collisions during certain…

6 months ago

How To Turn Off a Car Properly

Summary Setting your gear shifter in the correct position before turning off the vehicle is critical. If you’re driving an…

6 months ago

What Is a Drop Hitch Receiver?

Summary A drop hitch receiver or drop hitch is a piece of equipment that allows trucks or SUVs to mount…

6 months ago

What Is an Exhaust Header Wrap? Pros, Cons, and FAQs

Summary An exhaust header wrap helps retain the heat in the exhaust system, boosting engine efficiency and performance. The benefits…

6 months ago

Tire Feathering: What It Is, Causes, and More

Summary Tire feathering is when the tire develops diagonal wear patterns across the tread ribs.Issues that can cause tire feathering…

6 months ago

Should You Put Anti-Seize Grease on Spark Plugs?

Summary Anti-seize is a kind of lubricant that can be applied to various components like spark plugs, bolts, and flanges…

6 months ago

What Are AC Flush Kits and When Should You Use Them?

Summary AC flush kits are used to flush out contaminants and debris in the air conditioning system. AC flushing is…

6 months ago

A Look at Car Satellite Radios: History, Decline, and the Future

Summary Satellite radio is a digital broadcast that transmits signals over a larger area using satellites orbiting Earth.The two biggest…

6 months ago

Exhaust Gasket Guide: Function, How to Replace, and FAQs

Summary Exhaust gaskets prevent leaks and ensure gas flows through the catalytic converter. They can withstand extreme pressure and temperatures.…

6 months ago

A Brief Guide on Quad Exhaust Pipes

Summary Quad exhaust pipes are an exhaust tip setup with four tips. A quad exhaust improves the appearance of your…

6 months ago

What Is Brake-by-Wire?

Summary In a brake-by-wire system, there’s no mechanical component connecting the brake pedal to the brakes themselves. Instead, these systems…

6 months ago

What Is Tongue Weight?

Summary Tongue weight is the downward force the trailer tongue exerts on the tow vehicle’s hitch. In other words, it’s…

6 months ago

Wheel Weights: a Brief Guide

Summary Wheel weights are small weights that balance the wheel and tire assemblies. The two types of wheel weights are…

6 months ago

What Are the Effects of Brake Fluid On Car Paint?

Summary Brake fluid’s effect on car paint is very similar to paint thinner. It’ll eat away your paint and expose…

6 months ago

Tips on How To Deal With Cross-Threaded Bolts

Summary Cross-threading occurs when a bolt’s threads become misaligned during installation, leading to the bolt not screwing into place as…

6 months ago

Alternative Ways of Opening a Square Drain Plug

Summary If you don't have a square plug socket, you can try using an open-ended wrench or a 12-point socket…

6 months ago

How Track Days Can Affect Your Car’s Maintenance Schedule

Summary The most common and important maintenance task for track vehicles is an oil change. Track vehicles typically require more…

6 months ago

Tips for Buying a Used Convertible

Summary Cargo space, engine size, seating capacity, and roof quality are some of the factors you should consider before purchasing…

6 months ago

Unmasking the Makeover: Clues to Spot a Repainted Car

Summary A car’s paint condition can give you an idea of whether it was involved in a collision or if…

6 months ago

What Is Power to Weight Ratio and How Does It Affect Vehicle Performance?

Summary The power-to-weight ratio of a vehicle refers to how much power it has relative to its weight.In terms of…

6 months ago

Flat-Bottom Steering Wheels Explained

Summary Flat-bottom steering wheels have a bottom part that is flat rather than curved. The benefits of flat-bottom steering wheels…

6 months ago

What Are Tires Made Of?

Summary Tires are made of natural and synthetic rubber, steel, textiles, fillers, and other ingredients. Rubber possesses traction, cost-effectiveness, and…

6 months ago

How to Check the Oil Pressure Manually

Summary Stay safe when you check the oil pressure manually by organizing your tools and wearing protective gear. You’ll need…

6 months ago

What Exactly Is an SUV Coupe?

Summary The SUV coupe combines the off-roading capabilities of an SUV with the sporty look and feel of a traditional…

6 months ago

What Are HD Matrix Headlights?

Summary HD matrix headlights consist of a cluster of LED bulbs instead of a single high-beam bulb. They’re powered by…

6 months ago

Everything You Need to Know About LED Headlight Conversion Kits

Summary LED headlight conversion kits contain everything you need to convert your headlights from halogen to LEDs. While it’s possible…

6 months ago

Paintless Dent Removal: What Is It and Does It Really Work?

Summary Paintless dent removal is a technique for repairing minor body damage on vehicles, which doesn’t require bodywork and repainting.…

6 months ago

Spare Tire and Jack Maintenance: Essential Tips

Summary To keep the spare tire in good condition, check its tire pressure and tread regularly. You can also include…

6 months ago

Automotive Paint Codes: Where Can I Find the Paint Code for My Car?

Summary The automotive paint code is a number that corresponds to the specific color your auto manufacturer used on your…

6 months ago

Wheel Curb Rash Repair: Tips, Estimated Costs, and FAQs

Summary Curb rash is a minor cosmetic damage to a vehicle’s wheel that comes from getting too close to an…

6 months ago

Tips and Tricks for an Effective Tonneau Cover Cleaning Job

Summary Tonneau covers are inexpensive accessories that protect your truck bed from the elements and debris. A soft brush, detailing…

6 months ago

How to Fix a Cracked Bumper: Methods, Cost, and More

Summary Plastic welding, epoxy repair, bumper repair kits, and professional repair can fix cracked bumpers. The best option depends on…

7 months ago

Transmission Fluid Flush vs. Change: Which Is a Better Choice?

Summary A transmission fluid flush involves using specialized equipment to completely flush out old fluid and contaminants from your transmission.…

7 months ago

What Are Towing Straps and How To Use Them

Summary A tow strap can be used to tow a vehicle. Meanwhile, a recovery or snatch strap is  specially designed…

7 months ago

What is a Vehicle Snorkel and What Is It For?

Summary Vehicle snorkels are aftermarket modifications that prevent water from entering the engine and help the air intake system get…

7 months ago

What Is Brake Checking? Plus Why Drivers Do It and How to Deal With It

Summary Brake-checking happens when a driver abruptly applies the brakes, causing the car behind to swerve or brake suddenly to…

7 months ago