The pictures are scary… long lines of nearly dead Teslas and other electric cars waiting for a charge station to open up. News stories that tell the tale of stranded owners whose  electric vehicles suddenly get half the range they should because of freezing temperatures and  charge stations that are slow or don’t work.

And yet, plenty of electric car owners are sailing along just fine without these issues. What gives?

We had to find out, so I sat with Steve Kosowski, manager of long range planning and electric car expert at Kia. Like all car companies, Kia has tested its EVs in sub-freezing temperatures, sweltering summer weather and more to understand the best way to ensure every battery performs the way it should. Here’s what I learned — and some of this is eye-opening.

Electric Cars and Winter Driving: What You Should Know

Battery Range Doesn’t Dissipate in Cold Temps

It’s merely slow. That’s because the exchange of positive and negative ions, which is what creates electricity, takes place in a liquid gel. In cold temperatures, Steve said, liquid is sluggish and just as it would be more difficult to swim through jelly than through water, the ions are slow to move, reducing the amount of energy they can produce. Once they warm up though, the range is restored too. Not what you’ve heard? That’s why I asked the next question: Why is range reduced then?

What Impacts Range of Electric Vehicles? Using the Heat

You go out to your car and start it, but it’s cold. There’s frost on the windshield so you turn on the defroster and the heater to get it warmed up. Starting the car also begins to warm the battery.

Within a few minutes the windshield is clear, your fingers are unfrozen and you can drive, so you do. Turn off the defroster and your range creeps up. Turn off the heater (but leave on the heated seats) and it improves more, but not completely. So yes, your range is reduced. That’s because the internal system that warms the battery will keep going until the battery is warm. It can take 30 minutes to several hours for the battery to warm up — preconditioning, as it’s called in the industry — so it may not be fully warmed by the time you reach your destination, even though the cabin is toasty warm.

Clearly, heating the car is what uses up all that energy. But there’s a solid workaround.
Rugged yet Futuristic Kia EV9 Electric 3-row SUV Makes Its Debut

Keep Your Baby Warm

Just as experts tell us to start our car and warm it up before we drive it on cold days, electric cars need to be warmed, too. Using your owner’s app or settings in the multimedia system, you should be able to set a time to pre-condition the battery before you start the car. Ideally this should be an hour or two before you plan to drive. As you program your home thermostat for comfort and efficiency, you can also set the heat and defroster so the car is toasty warm and the windshield is clear when you’re ready to go.

If you can park in a garage, all the better since this should reduce the ambient temperature at least a bit, and reduce the likelihood of frozen door handles or charge doors, which can freeze over in snowy, icy weather.

However, even if your door handles and charge door are frozen, preconditioning the car and cabin should help with that.

Warm the Car While It’s Plugged In

If you can precondition the car while the car is plugged, all the better. That should result in a net zero depletion of battery power, Steve said. Again, using the app or multimedia screen settings, you can program the car to warm up in the morning before you head out. Then unplug it and you’re ready to go.

Warming the car while it’s charging is great at home, or at a public station where others are not waiting to charge. Part of the ire of EV owners is waiting for others to charge while they sit happily in their car with the heat running… which means the car will take longer to charge.

Charge at Home When Possible

And install a level 2 charger; this is basically a 240V outlet, which is what is used for a household clothes dryer. I installed one in my garage and it cost about $150. To buy a level 2 adapter is about $300-$500, though many car makers include one with purchase (a level 1 standard household charger is typically included too).

Charging at home will typically have a very low cost, a dollar or two a day, less if you’re only replenishing the 30 or 40 miles you drove that day. Use your app or multimedia charge screen to program the time you want the car to charge (when rates are cheapest, of course) and for the health of your battery, only charge to 80%; this will make your battery last longer (which we have learned by overcharging our phones and laptops).

Charging at home will also save you the heartache of chargers that don’t work or long lines to charge. And again if you can’t charge at home, find the chargers that are most reliable and the time of day they are most available and build that into your schedule. Perhaps its a great time to answer email, buy groceries or meditate in a quiet cabin.

Can’t Plug In At Home? How to Best Use Public Charging

Not everyone can plug in an electric car in at home, but they can still pre-condition before turning on the heat. The good news is that this should only take about 2% of the battery’s power as long as the cabin temperature and defroster are not on as well. Turn those on just before getting into the car, 5-10 minutes or so, and once in the car, use seat heaters and the heated steering wheel instead of cabin heat. This will leave you with a nice solid range, a minimal decline in charge and a comfy cabin.

Before finding a public charger, you should also pre-condition the battery. While you’re shopping, at work or on a flight heading home, set  your car to precondition. This will not only help your efficiency driving to the charger, but it’ll help your car to charge more quickly once you’re there.

Use the chargers your manufacturer recommends or has a relationship with. The software in a charge station station has to communicate with your car’s software, which is why sometimes they don’t work or there are false starts.

Then, charge at a time of day when it’s not as cold or as busy as it might be during rush hour or first thing in the morning.

Other Energy-Saving Strategies

Use eco mode. Use your car’s regenerative braking paddles or set the system to maximum regenerative mode. Use one-pedal driving and auto hold braking, especially in heavy traffic; you’re likely to regain some miles in a bumper-to-bumper crawl, believe it or not. Heated and vented seats will reduce draw on the motor, which requires more battery power. Use your car’s built in navigation for more efficient routes.

Reduce weight in the car when possible; if you don’t need really need your summer beach gear right now or your softball bag, leave them at home.

And, follow your manufacturer’s advice. Not all EVs are the same; they have different technology, different software and different charging infrastructure.

Want to Drive Electric, But Not Sure You’re Ready? Go PHEV

This is a great option, Steve told us: A plug-in electric hybrid is the perfect answer to days when charging or range are a challenge. A PHEV uses both a gas-powered engine and a battery-electric motor to power the car. Typically you can drive 30-50 miles on electric, enough range for most daily driving, errands and more. From there, the hybrid motor kicks in, giving you gas-powered miles, heat and more.

For optimal electric range you should also precondition the battery, as you would with the full electric system, and minimize the use of cabin heat. For buyers in cold climates, be sure to opt for heated seats if they are not included in the PHEV equipment package. They’ll pay for themselves — in saved electric range as well as comfort.

Planning Is Your Best Defense

Either way, pay attention to the weather and plan accordingly. Long lines at gas stations just before or after a storm are not uncommon, nor are stations that can’t function when the power is out or that run out of gas due to high demand and short supply.

And if you have a car with bi-directional charging and lose power at home, you can use your fully-powered electric car as a home generator – and sail through cold temperatures or power outages in toasty warmth.

Have a thought or comment? Share it with us on social media! You can find us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. And be sure to sign up for our email newsletter!

One of the most important purchases car owners make is tires, one of a vehicle’s most important safety feature. Let’s face it – after the often intimidating car buying experience, the last thing you want is a repeat when replacing your car’s tires. But when you know what you’re doing, it’s not that bad, or that expensive. We broke it down into 9 important tire buying tips that will make the buying experience a little better.

This story contains affiliate links; A Girls Guide to Cars may earn a commission from sales generated by links in this story. So, shop away!

Growing up with a mechanic dad, believe me, I know the importance of good tires. It’s the only thing between you and the road. You and your family’s safety depends on good tires. Keeping them properly inflated saves fuel. Worn tread can cause an accident. Yeah, yeah, check all that.

But if you’re like me, buying tires ranks right there with going to the dentist. You’d really rather do ANYTHING than make an appointment. You know you have to do it, putting off the purchase until the last minute can result in expensive surprises or that horrible feeling you paid too much for the wrong thing. 

With some planning and a little homework, buying new tires for your car is easy. Here are my 9 secrets to buying new tires.

Related: Buying New Tires? Do’s and Don’ts to Find Your Best Fit

9 Tips for Buying Tires

1. All tires are not created equal

Yes, tires can all look alike. They are round. They are made of rubber. They have treads. And they are perhaps THE most important safety feature of your vehicle. Just like shoes, tires are made by multiple companies including Bridgestone, Continental, Goodyear, Michelin, Hercules, Pirelli, and more.

And like designer shoes, choosing the right tire brand depends on so many facets of your vehicle and driving habits. For example, if you live in the northeast, winter tires with softer rubber designed to grip a slippery surface will give you more traction in the snow. (You wouldn’t wear stilettos during a winter snow storm, right?)

If your home is in Florida, winter tires wouldn’t make any sense, while summer tires (made of tougher, more rigid rubber) will last longer in the hot weather. The most popular tires are all season (all weather) which perform well in most driving conditions.

Related: 4 Awesome Car Maintenance Apps to Keep your Car Running Smooth

2. Know when it’s time to replace your tires

You don’t have to be an experienced auto mechanic to know enough to be safe. Take time to LOOK at your tires – all 5 of them! Yes, it’s important to check your spare, too. Do they look, worn or damaged? Do they pass the penny test? Insert a penny into the tire tread with Lincoln’s head pointing toward the center of the tire. If its head isn’t partially hidden by the tire, the tire needs to be replaced. And it’s okay to confirm your results and have your tires checked by a professional.

Related: How to Dispose of Car Tires

3. Decipher the tire codes

Perhaps the biggest mistake consumers make is choosing the right tire. And this is as easy as getting down and dirty to look at the code on the sidewall of your tire, a combination of letters and numbers. These indicate the size, type, and performance of the tire.

The first three-digit number in the tire size refers to the tire width. For example, my 2014 Ford Escape’s tire size is 235/45 R19 tire, the tire width is 235 millimeters, measured from sidewall to sidewall. Aspect Ratio is the ratio of the height of the tire’s cross-section to its width.

The two-digit number after the slash mark in a tire size is the aspect ratio. For example, in a size 235/45 R19 tire, the 45 means that the height is equal to 45% of the tire’s width. The bigger the aspect ratio, the bigger the tire’s sidewall. The letter “R” in a tire size stands for Radial, which means the layers run radially across the tire. Wheel Diameter is the size of the wheel measured from one end to the other. This is the size of the wheel that the tire is intended to fit. A size 235/45 R19 tire is made for a wheel with a 19″ diameter. While this may sound Auto Geek to you, tire codes are important to know when pricing your new tires as it’s the unique descriptor.

Related: The Truth About Worn Tires and Tire Replacement

4. Size does matter

When you do finally take the step to shop around (see below), most tire dealers will ask the make, model, and year of your car. But you may still have different size options as well. Your choices may include bigger tires to fill the wheel well, or smaller less expensive tires. Whatever your choice, make sure the tires fit the recommended speed rating; can handle your car up to a designated top speed; and can accommodate the weight of your car (load rating) + passengers and gear. Check your tire’s sidewalls for these codes, or simply open your owner’s manual.

5. Decide what you need from replacement tires

Chances are you’ve been driving the car for some time. Think about your driving experience. Is something not up to par? Are you looking for a more comfortable ride? More steering control? Less noise? Longer wear? Tires that are standard with a new car are usually one size fits most, so if you feel, you might be better with a new brand, then ask your tire technician for your options when buying tires. I recently replaced my car tires for the first time since purchasing my Ford Escape. The Continental tires worked great in the Colorado winter, driving in the mountains, and even on some off-road trips. And they lasted over 40,000 miles. So if it’s not broke, then why change the tire brand?

Related: I Need New Tires — Should I Buy the Same Ones My Car Came With?

6. Shop around

Just like any consumer purchase, drivers have a lot of options. Go ahead and take the information you’ve gathered from above, and shop around. You can return to your dealership, although oftentimes this is the more expensive option. (NOTE: My Ford dealership actually offered to match any other tire quote, so ask them about price matching.) For convenience, many consumers first consider their local tire shop or discount tire store.

It’s often a matter of convenience and usually located closer to your home. Prices are usually reasonable, and I’ve discovered that the service managers and technicians are very helpful. Quotes are also as simple as a phone call or stopping by the store. Or, you can order your tires through Amazon or a third party supplier like Tire Rack or Tirebuyer; these sites promise the lowest possible price and are great for people who have a favorite mechanic or can handle the installation themselves.

7. Read the reviews

Take all your options and quotes and start reading the reviews. See what the experts say about the tires. Expensive doesn’t always equal the best tires. Sometimes inexpensive tires wear as well as their premium competitors. But sometimes you get what you pay for. Subscription service like Consumer Reports separate tires into categories, such as braking, hydroplaning, tread life, ride comfort, and more. But there are so many reviews out there available simply at a click of a mouse – search your car, tire brands, price and more. Reviews will help you understand the differences, allow you to ask for what you want, and hone in on the best set of new tires.

Related: You Got This! Everything You Need to Know About Towing

8. Decide what to spend

Gather your reviews and compare these to your quotes. Be sure to consider a warranty when buying tires. The warranty gives you an idea of how many miles you should get out of the tires. On most cars, tires last three to four years (40,000 -80,000 miles), which is covered by the warranty, which means that you’ll get a discount toward the remaining mileage if a covered damage incident occurs.

However, if you traditionally put a lot of miles on your car, consider adding hazard insurance, usually only $15-$20 per tire. Also, many of these local tire stores include complimentary tire rotations, flat repairs, and more, so be sure to ask! Since tires can be a huge expense, consider financing options.

On my recent tire purchase, I spent over $1,100 for 4 new tires. I had saved half of that, so instead of putting the balance on a credit card, I applied for Discount Tire’s 9 months same as cash financing program. I qualified! Just be sure to pay off the loan BEFORE the 9 months as the interest rates after the interest-free period are extremely high!

9. Purchase your tires with confidence

You’ve done your homework. You’ve shopped around. You’ve read the reviews. Prepared your budget. Now, go ahead and take the plunge! And enjoy the ride with confidence on a sweet set of new tires.

Have a thought or comment? Share it with us on social media! You can find us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. And be sure to sign up for our email newsletter!

You might think it would be obvious when your car isn’t working right. Red lights on the dashboard? Horrible, grinding noise? Just plain refusal to start? Sure, those are definite signs something is wrong, and you may be in need of auto repair, but the signals that something isn’t right can be far more subtle.

Modern cars have about a gazillion components and different levels of function, and not all cars, even those of the same type or built by the same manufacturer, work the same way. And, with all those parts, software, and differences, it’s easy for something to go awry.

All this means it can be hard to tell if your car is not working the way it should.

Related: 4 Awesome Car Maintenance Apps to Keep Your Car Running Smooth

Even New Cars Can Malfunction 

This has happened to me several times — with brand new cars. Usually, the fix is simple, and always, it’s cheaper to address it as soon as it happens rather than waiting to see if it “self heals” — which is actually a thing in the era of over-the-air updates. 

Not to worry. New cars have warranties; electric cars have longer warranties that cover batteries and power trains, typically 8 years or more. And there are lots of ways to diagnose a problem and find a practical solution. 

Related: The Secret To Easy Car Care – and Keeping Repair Bills Low

How to Know if Something Is Wrong with Your Car

First, set your expectations. Get to know your car and all the things it does; what does it sound like? How does it feel when braking and accelerating? What does it feel like when merging onto the highway? Going over a hill? Learn to feel for these things so if they change, you’ll know. 

Then, learn all your car’s important functions, such as the rearview camera, which should work consistently. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto should have a regular sequence. Navigation and other multimedia systems should be reliably useful. Electric cars should have reliable feedback systems to tell you the battery charge level, miles left on the range, and navigation to help you find a charge station.

What New Technology Does Your Car Have?

Not long ago, I test drove an electric car for a week. I knew that it should have one-pedal driving, regenerative braking, and auto hold, the function that holds the car in place once you’ve pressed the brake, such as at a traffic light or stop sign (I love this feature, BTW). 

I noticed right away that regenerative braking wasn’t working; the battery wasn’t gaining the expected charge of energy that it should when braking in traffic or coasting downhill in maximum regenerative mode. The auto hold wasn’t working, either; these two things made me believe that something was wrong with the battery system, though the battery itself was working properly; usage per mile was typical, and it recharged just fine.

OK, so that’s a lot to know about a new car, especially if it’s been a while since you had a new car. How would you be expected to know? You can do a quick internet search, look at YouTube, or ask other owners. Learn how these features work to know if your car working the way it should. 

During that test drive, I also noticed that Apple CarPlay started to work sporadically, as did navigation. Then I would see some dashboard lights come on and go off. There was a ghost in the machine, and it needed to be looked at by the dealer. That was exactly what was in order.

Had this been completely new to me, I might have simply thought that this car was a terrible car with weird technology. But it wasn’t the car; it was something wrong with the system that needed to be fixed. The car is actually a great car; any car can have a software issue or something else that causes it to malfunction.

When Should I Be Worried About My Car?

In addition to really odd noises, things that don’t work properly, and anything that feels really wrong, notice your dashboard lights. 

Here’s a general rule of thumb for dashboard lights: 

• Green light = everything is OK
• Yellow light = there may be an issue; have someone take a look
• Red light = driving your car may be dangerous or damage the engine

Different lights have different meanings; you can always snap a photo of the light and either check the owner’s manual, find it on the internet, or call a dealership or mechanic to find out what they think the problem could be. RepairPal has a nice symptom guide that is helpful too. If the consensus is that the problem is serious, you should probably have your car towed to a mechanic.

Why Won’t My Car Start?

This is the most confounding one: Your car simply won’t start. Most often, the culprit is a dead battery, but it could be something else. It’s always best to keep jumper cables or a quick start battery in your car, especially if your car is out of warranty; maintain a roadside assistance membership, such as AAA; and keep up your maintenance schedule so you’re never in this situation. 

Replacing the battery, alternator, and other key components when they are due for replacement will help avoid being stuck with a car that won’t start.

Will an Auto Parts Stores Scan Your Car For Free?

Every car has an OBD reader, or onboard diagnostics reader; a mechanic can plug in a device to find out what codes your car is generating that indicate malfunctioning systems or service needed. Some auto parts stores will scan your car and give you a list of things that need to be tended to; some of these you can do yourself, others you probably want to see a mechanic for. 

Or, you can just go right to the mechanic for a reading. It’s always fair to ask for a list of suggested maintenance and pick the services you want the mechanic to do and the ones you can do yourself. If you’re adept at replacing a headlight, why should you pay someone to do it for you?

Cars keep getting more and more complicated. But they also last longer and go further than ever, as long as they are well-maintained, that is. Knowing your car, just like you know any other important piece of equipment in your life, will help you keep it healthy and know when something just isn’t right. 

Have a thought or comment? Share it with us on social media! You can find us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. And be sure to sign up for our email newsletter! Additionally, A Girls Guide to Cars may earn a commission from affiliate links in this story.

Confucius said, “A man who does not plan long ahead will find trouble at his door.” We say smart women know planning is important, so we get it done. Consider this your nudge to make a car emergency kit or check the one you already have.

No matter how much you love your car, being stranded due to an emergency probably is not your idea of a good time. If you don’t have an emergency kit in your car, now is the time to add this to your to-do list. Whether you’re preparing for a big road trip or you’re getting your car ready for the winter season, being ready for the unexpected will help you navigate tough terrain when life throws you a curve ball. Here are the basics you need in your car emergency kit.

Related: 100 Things You Should Always Keep in Your Car

This story contains affiliate links; A Girls Guide to Cars may earn a commission from sales generated by links in this story. So, shop away!

Premade Car Emergency Kits

If you don’t want to assemble a car emergency kit from scratch, here are several options for premade kits. These have most of the items you might need, although you might want to augment it with items such as a phone charger and food and water.

These emergency kits run between $30 and $100, depending on their contents. Please don’t purchase an emergency kit without knowing what’s inside. In other words, don’t just buy one on Amazon, toss it into your trunk and call it good.

• COOGEO Roadside Emergency Kit – $26.99
• HLWDFLZ Car Emergency Kit –$26.99. Note: Many of the items in this particular kit are hot pink, so if you appreciate a splash of color, this one might be fun to look at.
• First Secure Roadside Kit – $87.99
• ELECTOP Car Emergency Roadside Kit – $39.98

Building Your Car Emergency Kit From Scratch? Here’s What You Need

If you don’t want to buy a premade car emergency kit, consider what you need to have in your home made kit.

Cell Phone Charger

Being out of juice is never a good idea, so confirm that you have an extra power supply and a charging cable to get you through any unforeseen situation. Try not to leave your house with a nearly dead phone, especially if you know you’ll be driving for a while.

First Aid Kit

These come premade or you can build your own. A first aid kit should include the basics to address minor medical issues until you can get more extensive help if needed and a few over-the-counter medications if you or your passengers become ill on the road.

Basics include instant/chemical cold and hot packs, disposable gloves, scissors, tweezers, cotton balls and Q-tips, sterile eyewash, hand sanitizer, adhesive bandages and anti-bacterial cream. Also consider aspirin and non-aspirin pain relievers, antidiarrheal medication, cold medication, Calamine lotion or another remedy to treat insect bites or rashes, allergy medication, and sunscreen.

Also, add any medication you can’t be without for an extended period, such as an EpiPen for anyone with severe allergies. 

Here’s a selection of small premade first aid kits that are perfect to keep in your car:

• YITEREBO Small Waterproof Car First Aid Kit – $18.99
• Mini First Aid Kit With Water Resistant Hard Shell Case – $15.99
• Johnson & Johnson All-Purpose First Aid Kit – $16.61

If you use something from your car’s first aid kit, make sure you replace it once your emergency has been resolved.

Blanket or Warm Clothing

You’ll want to make sure you’ll be able to keep warm if you’re stranded without the ability to use your car’s heater. If you live in a cold, snowy climate, you’ll want to have heavier blankets and warm coats during winter, but even if you live in a milder climate, you should have something.

If you don’t bundle up for shorter trips in the cold or have a teenager allergic to outerwear, make a habit of enforcing the “Take a coat” rule. Throw in a beanie and warm gloves, too.

Related: A Fashion Emergency Kit For Your Car

Drinking Water and Snacks for Everyone In The Car

You’ll want to ensure you have food and water to get you through any waiting period between whatever emergency you encounter and receiving help. Stock on the side of caution and have enough emergency supplies for everyone in the car, so if you have a family of four but take most of your car trips by yourself, make sure you have enough rations for all four of you.

This doesn’t have to be fancy. Think about what snacks will get you through a three-hour wait for a tow truck when it’s snowing. Protein bars, nuts, jerky, and prepackaged cookies and crackers work great. If you usually travel with pets, include some emergency pet food and include your pet in your water rations.

Related: Travel-Friendly Snacks the Whole Family Will Enjoy

Kid-Specific Items

If you have little ones, make sure you have extra diapers and wipes. Most parents don’t leave the house without a stocked diaper bag, but Murphy’s Law says whatever car emergency you have will be after you use your last diaper. Keep a few spares in your car’s emergency kit – check them periodically to ensure they’re the right size.

Related: Car Seats and Winter Coats Don’t Mix

Fire Extinguisher

An engine bursting into flames is a car scenario no one likes to think about, so add one of these small-size fire extinguishers in your Amazon cart, put it in your car, and don’t think about it again unless you need it.

Make sure you are checking your fire extinguisher at the recommended interval.

Flashlight with Extra, Fresh Batteries

Yes, we’re all pretty used to using the flashlight app on our phones, but if you’re truly stranded, you will want to conserve your cell phone battery as much as possible.

Grab this handy four-pack of mini flashlights for your household’s cars. Throw a spare in your purse or backpack. Make sure you check batteries periodically to ensure they still work.

Jumper Cables or Better, a Battery Pack

Your car’s battery can die for a number of reasons: It needs to be replaced or someone leaves on an interior light or a door slightly open. If you can give the battery a charge, you can quickly be on your way, which is a reason to carry jumper cables. Or better, carry a battery pack; while jumper cables require another car to supply the power, a battery pack provides the power for you, as well as USB ports for charging other things. Either way, you can usually be on your way pretty quickly. These are also great to have in case you find yourself in the position to help someone else out.

Traction Aid

If you regularly travel to someplace snowy or sandy, or live somewhere where Mud Season is a regular thing, having traction aids in your trunk can be a day-saver. The old stand-by is sand, salt, or non-clumping cat litter to neutralize slippery surfaces, though they can melt or be quickly absorbed by wet surfaces. A more reliable solution are traction mats; place them under  under your tires in the direction you need to go. And keep footwear in mind when weather and road conditions are messy; if you’re stranded and need to get out of your car, slipping and falling on ice will only worsen your situation.

Ice Scraper and Snow Brush

Even those (like me) who live in warm climates will encounter the occasional frosty window. An ice scraper – a proper ice scraper and not your driver’s license – and a snow brush will help you clean your windows quickly and easily. Or, grab this scraper/brush combo.

Emergency Triangle Set

Get a set of three emergency triangles – included in many premade car emergency kits – and use them to alert other motorists to your disabled vehicle, if necessary. Only pull off to the side of the road in a true emergency. If you can safely reach a parking lot or escape a busy highway, do that.

Reflective Safety Vest

Pulling off on a busy highway or in an area where other drivers can’t see you is dangerous; it’s usually advisable to stay in your car with the emergency flashers on until help arrives if you can’t be outside it safely.

And if you have to pull off the road, find a place with good lighting, near businesses and other people; you’ll be safer. A woman alone with a broken-down car is a magnet for predators.

However, if you have to be outside your vehicle when it’s dark or in bad weather, wear a reflective vest to increase your visibility so others can see you. And, although no one would call a reflective vest a must-have fashion accessory, this one we found on Amazon does come in a nice, bright pink. It comes in several other color choices, too. 

Make sure you purchase your vest large enough to fit over your outerwear.

Rotating Your Stock and Checking Your Emergency Supplies

Do a periodic check of your car emergency supplies and make sure everything is in good working order. You obviously can’t leave a cell phone charging block or conventional batteries in your car for an extended period and expect them to work when needed, so make sure you’re rotating or checking these items regularly.

Other Safety and Preparedness Tips

If you don’t know basic car care skills, such as how to use jumper cables or change a flat tire, put these things on your list of things to learn. Or, when the emergency is bigger than your kit can handle, keep your roadside assistance plan information on your phone, in your glove box and in your handbag. 

Know how to use your car’s connected services; most new cars have an app and an on-board call button that allow you to talk to a human if you run into trouble. OnStar, BlueLink and others offer extended services by subscription, complimentary basic services for a few years and emergency services for free.

Always make sure someone knows your plans. This can be as simple as sending the friend you’re meeting a text when you leave the house, to investing in location tracking apps, such as Life 360, that allow you to see the physical location and other details about those you assign to your circle. 

And then, head out on the road and enjoy the ride!

Have a thought or comment? Share it with us on social media! You can find us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. And be sure to sign up for our email newsletter!

Buying new tires can be incredibly confusing. There are so many different kinds of tires; tires need to fit your specific car and you need to make sure they’re fit for the driving you do. Should you get the same tires that are already on the car? Should you just buy tires from your local dealership? Or should you see a tire specialist?

When I needed new tires, I wanted good advice. So I asked TJ Campbell, Tire specialist & testing manager at Tire Rack, an on-line tire seller. TJ does all the hard work: learning all about each tire, the cars they are designed for and then testing them on a track. This is what he said.

Related: Tire Buying is Easy with Tire Rack

1: Do NOT Just Purchase the Tires Currently on Your Car.

The tires that come on your car when you first purchase it are chosen by the manufacturer. Yes, those tires will fit your car, but they might not be the best tires for your personal driving experience. The manufacturer tends to choose tires that perform well on gas mileage. The tires that rate the highest MPG are not the tires that will last the longest or perform the best in uncertain weather. 

Related: 9 Great Secrets for Buying Tires

2: Don’t Assume You Must Buy New Tires at the Car Dealer

When I took my car for an oil change, the mechanic at my local dealer quoted me upwards of $1,000 for a set of 4 new tires. TJ explained that often when a dealer tries to sell you tires, it’s because they have tires in their inventory and will sell them to you at a premium. Although there may be the convenience of getting those tires installed on the spot, they’re probably not going to be the best-fit tires for your driving experience, nor will they be the best value for your money.

Related: Ten Best Run-Flat Tires 

3: Choose your Retailer Carefully 

If you are buying tires in an in-person store, TJ recommends seeing a tire specialist over a mechanic. A tire specialist will be focused on finding the best tires for your specific vehicle and installing them properly.

Keep in mind that mechanics are there to work on your car’s mechanical systems; tire shops are there for tires specifically.

If you want to cross-shop brands and prices, digital shopping sites like TireRack.com makes shopping for tires easy. The website allows you to enter the make, model, and year of your car and then suggests all the tires that fit.

The list of tires automatically sorts by customer ratings, with the most popular tires at the top. You can search by other filters such as price, winter/all-terrain, brand, special deals, and more. 

Related: I Need New Tires — Should I Buy the Same Ones My Car Came With?

4: Vet Your New Tires: How Did TheyTest on the Track? 

Not all tire sellers test the tires they sell. Tire manufacturers test their tires, of course, and car manufacturers do, too. But tire sellers? Not always. Tire Rack is one that runs their own tests on the tires they sell and compares them to similar tires. Their testing covers the tire’s performance on a dry track, a wet track, an ice rink, and finally on a dedicated snow track in Sweden. Tire Rack tries to answer the questions you really want to know, like how the drive experience feels, and how quickly they can stop on wet pavement.

5: Which Tires Should I Buy?

This test was the determining factor in which tires I ended up choosing. I drive a 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan and live in Colorado, so having off-road and extreme weather capabilities is important to me. I narrowed it down to two: Michelin CrossClimate2 tires and Bridgestone WeatherPeak tires.

I got to see how those tires performed on a track and read Tire Rack’s descriptions of what the drive experience was like. While the Michelin CrossClimates were rated as having great handling, they were noted to be less comfortable of a drive than the Bridgestone WeatherPeaks. The Bridgestone tires were noted to drive smoothly over bumps and cracks in the pavement, which is ideal for the pothole-lined roads of the Colorado Rocky Mountains.

Finally: Buy Yourself Some New Tires! 

When the time came for the actual tire buying, I realized I needed the tires to be delivered on a specific date since I was traveling and wouldn’t be home for a week. I was able to call a Tire Rack sales specialist who assisted me with my transaction and in selecting a delivery date and it look less than five minutes. 

Now, to get the tires installed. Tire Rack works with local tire installers and has their own mobile install service, which sounds like a true luxury. Now that I’d decided which tires to buy, I just needed to arrange installation.

But that’s another story for another day!

HHave a thought or comment? Share it with us on social media! You can find us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. And be sure to sign up for our email newsletter!

Famous last words upon seeing the needle on your gas gauge creeping toward empty. You’re on your way home, and you’re tired. Maybe you have kids or groceries in the car, and the thought of whining or melting ice cream is just a little too much of a reality. Perhaps you intended to stop to get gas, and the next thing you know, you’re sitting in your driveway because your car and brain went on autopilot. Now you’re stuck with getting gas in the morning when you’re probably running late. 

It happens to the best of us.

Despite our best intentions, we inevitably forget that we must get gas in the morning until we push the button to start the ignition and realize we don’t have enough fuel to get where we’re going. While being the queen of busy morning gas stops might not be a title you want to cash in on regularly, it’s a useful skill when you’re in a pinch. Here are some ways to be the queen of getting gas in the morning.

Related: Here’s How to Get Better Gas Mileage In Any Car

It’s OK Not to Be OK

Whether you’re a mom and your kids and mile-long to-do list got the best of you, or a work project or impromptu happy hour catchup session with a friend you haven’t seen in a while distracted you from your plans to stop and fill up your car, don’t beat yourself up because you forgot to do something. It’s not the end of the world, so take a deep breath and a minute to do a mini-strategy session.

Is your first priority to get to the pumps ASAP to avoid being stranded on the side of the road, or do you need to take a minute and make some notifications? Is your extra stop going to result in a room full of people tapping their toes and checking their watches because you’re late, or is your morning schedule more chill? And, unless your child is late for their SATs, a delayed arrival will probably not have far-reaching consequences. Yes, it’s an annoying, frustrating situation nobody likes, but take a minute to regroup and refresh your perspective.

Related: Apps to Find the Best Gas Prices Near You

But First, Can You Make It?

Most people live in populated enough areas where they can coast to a gas station without turning the situation into a roadside emergency. If you live in a more rural area or doubt your ability to make it somewhere – anywhere – to get gas, then you might need to activate your “phone a friend with a gas can” contingency plan.

Related: the Wild and Wonderful 2024 Alfa Romeo Tonale AWD PHEV

What If It’s Not Your Fault?

If you share the driving with other adults or teen drivers in your household, there will probably be times when you slide behind the wheel and get an unpleasant surprise. And no, I’m not talking about someone messing with your seat and mirror settings or leaving the radio on full blast to a station that’s not your vibe; I mean another driver in your house leaving you high and dry.

If you have another car with a fuller tank available and can make a quick switch and let your empty tank become someone else’s problem, that’s the quick and easy solution to get you moving. Otherwise, playing the blame game or getting upset with the guilty party will cost you time and effort you probably don’t have. Vow to be mad later. For now, be the boss you are and get it done. 

Better communication might prevent a repeat if your partner left you in the lurch. If it’s a teen or inexperienced driver, it might be time to assess the ground rules, such as establishing a driving contract or other formal means of laying out expectations for house rules on using the car.

The One Time Saving Money Might Not Be the Priority

I said what I said. I know we’re hardwired to look for low-priced fuel, and purposely overspending at the pumps goes against that narrative. We buy our gas at Costco, which is usually between 10 and 20 percent cheaper than other gas stations. The nearest Costco is eight miles from my house, which isn’t a lot, but it’s not on our way anywhere and is always a planned stop.

When plans fail, going eight miles out of my way because I’m late and need gas immediately isn’t an option, and I know I will pay more. I suck up the extra cost, which isn’t fun, and I resolve to be better prepared in the future. If my life had a narrator, this is where they’d say, “She was, in fact, not better prepared for the future,” and all of this probably surprises no one who knows me.

Give Yourself Permission Not to Worry About the Price – Just This Once

Bottom line, if you’re late and you forgot to get gas, save time and take some stress off your plate by giving yourself permission to not worry about the price, just this one time. If it works for you, put in a quarter or half a tank to get where you’re going and make a more budget-conscious fuel stop when you are not pressed for time.

A Girl’s Guide to Cars Founder and Editor in Chief Scotty Reiss suggests keeping it simple by searching for nearby gas stations in Google Maps. “Just add a few gallons and fill up later.”

Apps – They’re Your Friend

There’s an app for everything, including finding the closest gas station and comparing prices before you roll up to the pump. A Girl’s Guide to Cars Contributor Kim Smith recommends Upside. The Upside app, free to download, helps you earn cash back on gas, food, and other purchases. When you set up your profile, you can select what type of gas you use to quickly compare prices for what’s available in your area. Enable location settings while you’re using the app to help you quickly find fuel.

You can also use your Upside app to pay, and we appreciate a good timesaver when we’re already in a hurry. The reward comes as cashback to your PayPal or bank account.

Your Favorite Gas Station Has An App

If you’re loyal to a particular gas station, download the app to help you manage reward points and other benefits as well as help you rapidly locate the nearest gas station, although this might be of minimal help when you’re in your neighborhood or another area you’re hyper familiar with because you probably already know the location. You can cover all of your bases by joining multiple reward programs and having the apps downloaded and ready to go when you need them. Most of these programs are free to join.

I have Walmart+ – truth time, I got it for the Paramount+ subscription because I’m a fan of all things Taylor Sheridan and the Yellowstone franchise – but it offers an in-app gas discount feature for Walmart and Murphy gas stations. I save 5-10% on gas purchases, which is on par with my usual fuel spot, Costco.

Sometimes, Going Big is the Answer

“I look for the large stations that have lots of pumps versus the small places where I might have to wait,” says A Girl’s Guide to Cars writer Erica Mueller.

Waiting in line at the pumps when you’re already stressed out about being late adds more frustration to the experience, so finding a fuel spot with many pumps may get you in and out faster. 

If you are driving through Texas and you’re near Buc-ee’s, known for being the world’s largest gas station, you might be in luck. Otherwise, if you’re stuck at the pump, take a deep breath and multitask while you’re waiting. Finish applying your makeup, make calls, check your email, or catch up on a podcast.

When you are in a hurry, it always seems like the person in front of you has never pumped gas before, ever. This isn’t something you can control, and getting frustrated won’t help. Use the extra time to do something productive or pleasant.

The Ultimate Solution to Getting Gas in a Hurry: Go Electric

Another solution is eliminating the need for gas altogether – making your next car electric. More and more auto brands are not only jumping on the electric bandwagon but are fine-tuning their electric and plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) technology. Even Jeep Wrangler.

If you’re not ready to go fully electric, the current market has almost endless choices for PHEV. Depending on your daily driving habits and the charging stations available in your area, you may be able to get the bulk of your everyday driving done on an electric charge and save your gas-powered motor for longer trips.

Once you go electric or even PHEV, you’ll get into the habit of charging your car overnight – just as simple as the habit of putting your phone on the charger before you go to bed – and those unpleasant moments of realizing you should have filled up yesterday will be but a memory.

Have a thought or comment? Share it with us on social media! You can find us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. And be sure to sign up for our email newsletter!

Air filters can make a huge difference in how it feels in your car, especially if you’re in the car for a long time. But do you need a carbon air filter? And what is a carbon air filter anyway? Here’s what you need to know!

What are Cabin Air Filters Anyway?

Most late model cars have car air filters already installed. They are essential for a clean, breathable car. Car air filters clean the air that comes into your car through the ventilation, air conditioning, and heating system. They remove things in the air like dust, soot, and pollen, as well as bigger things like leaves and insects.

Cabin air filters also help keep the air conditioning evaporator clean, which can reduce microbe growth and the musty odors that stink up your car. A clogged air filter will make it so the incoming air that is blowing throughout your car cabin also includes all this debris. You are breathing it in! That’s not only gross but it could be unhealthy too.

If your car is smelly, check out these tips for keeping your car clean even if you have a bunch of kids. 

When Do Cabin Air Filters need to be replaced?

Do you smell some noxious odors on your commute? Are your vents not blowing air strongly? Does your car fog up easily? These are all signs that you might need a new cabin air filter. Experts say that you should get your cabin air filter checked at least once a year and it should be replaced about every 12,000 to 15,000 miles. This can depend on where and how much you drive. Some can last longer though so check with your manufacturer (or you know…just google it.)

Do You Need a Carbon Cabin Air Filter?

There are two types of car air filters you can use:

1. Carbon cabin air filter-Contains activated carbon and remove everything the particulate cabin air filter does as well as absorbs smelly odors and exhaust fumes before they enter the vehicle.

2. Particulate cabin air filter-Removes dust and other contaminants from the car cabin air.

The charcoal is labeled as “activated” because it is treated with chemicals and heat which gives it very good odor-control properties. The carbon air filter may cost more than the particulate filter which does not have carbon. If you drive in slow-moving traffic often or encounter strong odors on your drive, the investment in a carbon cabin air filter might be worth it.

Looking for more car maintenance tips? Check these out.

Are All Carbon Cabin Air Filters the Same?

All activated carbon filters remove a significantly higher amount of air pollutants than regular carbon filters, however, there are some distinctions. Some filters contain more activated carbon than others, and this can affect the capacity for impurity removal. There are several different manufacturers which make their own slightly different “recipe” for the best carbon cabin air filter.

Save Money by Changing Your Own Cabin Air Filter

Cabin air filters are easy to change and only cost about $15. However, if you arrange to take it to a mechanic it can cost up to $70 plus you’ll lose time while you wait for your car. Simply search “change cabin air filter + make of car” on YouTube and you’ll find a video. YouTube pretty much has a video for every type of car.

And then, breathe easy, and luxuriously!

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We all know who will be madder than a hornet on an August afternoon if the family gets stranded on the side of the highway without a proper emergency kit. I’ve driven across North America, and I know how to pack a car, especially supplies to help solve roadside misfortunes.

You know that feeling when pulling out of the driveway that you forgot something? Don’t get it on your next trip when you use this list for car emergency kit must-haves.

Related: Yes, You Can Buy A Car At Costco, And Here’s How to Get the Best Deal

Car Emergency Kit Must-Haves

You want to stay on schedule and arrive to your destination safely. Keeping your car in good working order helps prevent roadside emergencies.

• Spare tire-some newer cars might not have one
• Jack–see if it’s complete before you need it ($64.99 on Amazon)
• Tire gauge ($17 on Amazon)
• Tire inflator and sealer for emergency flat repair ($16 on Amazon)
• Lug key–If your car requires one. ($22 on Amazon)
• Car manual–What’s that mysterious light that just popped on your dash?
• Jumper cables ($12 on Amazon)
• Quart of oil + funnel
• Leatherman tool ($69 on Amazon) or minimum a flat head and Phillips head screwdriver along with adjustable pliers
• Duct tape ($24 on Amazon)
• WD-40 ($25 3-pack on Amazon)
• Flares ($37 kit on Amazon)
• Paper Maps–Grab them for free at a state’s welcome center.

Related: 9 of the Best 3 Row SUVs–From Luxury to Affordable

What’s in your Glove Compartment?

Stock your glove compartment with items you need to keep within arms reach in case of any misadventures. It’s a great place to stash some key emergency kit items like:

• AAA membership card, or other travel insurance card
• Copies of registration and car insurance card
• Car manual
• Flashlight with fresh batteries ($17 on Amazon)
• Window breaker and seat belt cutter, especially if you have small children in car seats
• Matches or lighter
• Car maintenance log
• Multi-Purpose Tool, like Leatherman
• Tire Gauge

Related: Best Podcasts to Listen to While Driving (Because We Love Multitasking)

First Aid Supplies

Life with kids is unpredictable. Scrapes and falls happen frequently so be prepared. Essential to any car emergency kit, I keep my first aid kit under the driver’s seat.

• Assorted bandages
• Antibiotic cream
• Anti-itch cream
• Anti-bacterial gel
• Pain reliever, adults and kids
• Allergy medication, like Benadryl
• Antacids
• Eye Wash
• Lip balm
• Extra required medication
• Tweezers

First Aid Kit on Amazon $33

Center Console or Arm Rest Compartment

Got a console? Load it up with these roadside essentials.

• Wipes ($15 on Amazon)
• Extra money, especially change for old-school parking meters.
• Extra napkins or paper towels
• Facial tissue
• Extra sunglasses
• Paper to write on
• List of phone numbers to friends or family. Just in case the phone goes missing.

In the Trunk or Back of the SUV

Grab a tote and pull together more supplies.

• Old towel or blanket–never know when you have to rescue an animal.
• Extra cords and cube for technology. In addition to the ones in use.
• Extra pair of shoes, in case you break your flip-flops.
• Disposable rain ponchos
• Extra set of keys.

Personal Products

I grab a small zip-top bag and pack it with personal care products. Just in case I get stranded overnight unexpectedly.

• Deodorant
• Extra pair of underwear
• Basic makeup, like mascara, powder, and lipgloss
• Travel roll of toilet paper
• Sunscreen
• Bug spray
• Contact holder + contact solution
• *Lady* products
• Travel toothbrush + paste
• Dental floss or pics

Food

Pack a few essentials for every day. Add some road trip snacks when headed out for a family trip.

• A gallon jug of water; can be used for radiator too
• Protein bars
• Dried fruit bars
• Dried nuts

 Related: Tips for choosing road trip snacks. 

Just For the Kids 

Keeping kids clean is nearly impossible so be prepared.

• Extra outfits plus socks and underwear
• Extra jacket or hoodie
• Stroller for kids under 6
• Sun hat for warmer weather
• Beanie for cooler weather
• Extra gloves – cheap ones ok

Babies and Toddlers 

When my kids were little, I used my SUV like a giant diaper bag. Keep these items stored where you change your baby in the car.

• Baby food and/or formula
• Baby wipes
• Extra diapers
• Changing Pad
• Bleach wipes
• Extra clothes including shoes and socks
• Disposable grocery bags for the dirties
• Extra soothing object, like a pacifier
• Extra toys

Keeping the Family Car Clean

We all know that kids are messy so take a few minutes to wash the car regularly. Kids can help too.

• Windex wipes
• Armor All wipes
• Microfiber cloths—Dry the outside and wipe down the inside.

Related: Tips for keeping your car clean–mile after mile.

Winter Emergency Kit Must-Haves

Winter travel requires its own products if you live or travel in snow-prone areas. Your car’s roadside emergency kit might need to include things like:

• State Website App for road closures and chain requirements
• Ice scraper with brush
• Can of de-icer
• Chains or cables plus extra cash to have someone install them
• Emergency blanket for heat retention
• Extra food and water
• Rubber gloves to protect hands when installing chains or removing snow and ice
• Small packable shovel for snow removal

Related: Tips for winterizing your car. 

With all of this in your vehicle…you’ll be ready for anything!

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Imagine, if you will, a world where ballerinas pirouette in soccer cleats, NFL kickers don ice skates and basketball players shoot hoops in stilettos. Sounds ridiculous, right? Believe it or not, it’s no less crazy than fitting your car with the wrong tires. I learned this when I had the chance to test out Pirelli Tire’s P Zero AS Plus 3 tires.

Obviously, you want your footwear to match the activity — and your car’s “shoes” are its tires. Sure, you can go running in flip-flops or play baseball in hiking boots if you want. But if Jurassic Park has taught us anything, it’s that just because you can do something, that doesn’t mean you should.

I wasn’t always this wise. In fact, until a few days ago I was the equivalent of a flip-flop-wearing runner when it came to my car’s tires. But after spending a day with Pirelli and Dream Racing at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway testing out Pirelli’s new P Zero AS Plus 3 tires among others, I am a changed woman. For my fellow tire novices out there who want to know which “shoes” will best fit their car, I hope this helps!

What Job Do You Want Your Tires to Perform? 

You might think of Pirelli as a company that makes tires for race cars and high-end performance cars. But they also design tires for everyone else, and they know that the needs of the North American market are unique from other parts of the world. Their “Plus” line of tires caters specifically to the demands of American drivers by offering durable, all-season tires that are capable of covering many miles with great handling. 

But now they’ve found a way to enhance this offering even further. Combining the comfort and durability of their “Plus” line with the sporty performance of their P Zero range, they’ve recently added a new member to the “Plus” line family: the P Zero AS Plus 3. This new ultra high-performance tire was exclusively developed for the North American market using 3D sipe technology, the lines and channels on the tire’s tread, and completely new compounds for both better road grip and longer wear. 

Related: I Need New Tires — Should I Buy the Same Ones My Car Came With?

“The P Zero AS Plus 3 is a testament to Pirelli’s focus on the North American Region and its commitment to develop products that answer to the specific needs of this market,” Claudio Zanardo, President and CEO of Pirelli North America, said. “We’re confident that this tire will exceed our customers’ expectations, providing a great driving experience and delivering exceptional performance in all conditions.”

But Pirelli didn’t just want us to take their word for it. They wanted us to experience this for ourselves. 

Related: Meet Hannah Grisham, Pirelli Tires First – and Only – Female Test Track Driver

Pirelli P Zero AS Plus 3: A Marriage of Comfort and High-Performance

“Power is nothing without control.” This has been Pirelli’s slogan for nearly 30 years and the new P Zero AS Plus 3 tires definitely proved that on the track. Hopping behind the wheel of a Toyota Supra with a driving instructor by my side, I spent 10 minutes speeding and braking around sharp turns and corners to get a feel for that combo of sporty performance and comfort the P Zero AS Plus 3 was made for.

Though not a racer myself, it was pretty clear that this tire was more than capable of handling anything that even the most seasoned of drivers could throw at it. I especially loved when I got to take my feet off the pedals and feel the car glide smoothly around curves as if it were on ice skates. And yet, this tire won’t be for everybody. As impressive as it is, it wasn’t made for my Kia Telluride, for example.

What You Need to Know about the P Zero AS Plus 3: 

• It comes in 31 sizes from 17 to 22 inches.
• It features a new tread pattern, compound and construction.
• It comes with a 50,000-mile limited treadwear warranty, which is among the best in class in its category.
• It’s for high-performance cars, such as the Ford Mustang, Genesis G80, BMW 3 series and the Mercedes Benz C-Class.
• It’s designed to deliver smooth wear, better traction in snowy and wet conditions and a comfortable ride with reduced cabin noise.

Which Tire Does Your Car Need?

Since most of us won’t be driving around in sporty, high-performance cars on the regular, Pirelli gave us a chance to test out some other tires in the “Plus” line that were tailored to daily driving needs. The P7 AS Plus 3 is their touring all-season tire for sedans and coupes and the Scorpion AS Plus 3 is their solution for crossovers, SUVs and pickups. We got to try both.

The biggest standout for me was when I drove a BMW X5 through a watered-down portion of the raceway. My brain was screaming at me to slow down while my instructor was simultaneously encouraging me to “give it some gas.” I let the car speed through the wet ground, bracing myself for some resistance. But it didn’t happen. It sailed straight through without a hitch.

If you want to know the fastest way to my heart as a mom of small kids, it’s something like this. Anything that reduces my chance of aquaplaning is an automatic winner, so I made a mental note to keep the Scorpion AS Plus 3 tires in mind for our family car.

Both the P7 AS Plus 3 and the Scorpion AS Plus 3 were made for drivers who crave peace of mind in all types of conditions. They last longer, they’re comfortable and they both include a 70,000-mile limited treadwear warranty. If you need help finding the right tire for your car, Pirelli’s website can point you in the right direction.

Related: 10 Best Run-Flat Tires for Your Next Vehicle Upgrade

My Favorite Part of the Day

Then Pirelli spoiled us. On top of trying out all their best all-season tires, they treated each of us to some hot laps around the oval in an Alfa Romeo Giulia and then paired us up with beautiful exotic cars that we got to race around the track several times. 

But all this might betray how boring I am. As much fun as it was to push high-performance cars to the limit on the race track, my favorite part of the day came when we took a leisurely scenic drive through Valley of Fire State Park.

The Real Test? On Streets and Highways with Traffic (and Other Cars)

Following the adrenaline rush of the morning, it was nice to relax while I wound my way through wide vistas of red rock formations. This is definitely more my speed, I thought.

Each of us was assigned an SUV fitted with Pirelli’s Scorpion AS Plus 3s. After my experience with the X5 on the track, I was looking forward to seeing how these tires would hold up on our two-hour drive. I had confidence in the grip and handling already — but what about noise reduction and comfort on those gravelly roads?

Well, I’m happy to report that the entire ride felt smooth, comfortable and relatively silent, allowing me to enjoy my favorite Apple CarPlay tunes at a lower volume level. 

It’s Not You, It’s the Tires

When all was said and done, I think I may have actually learned the most while I was talking to Jayden Lee, Pirelli North America’s Head of Product Marketing. (I owe him the credit for the tire/shoe analogy.) He told me about one instance where a car manufacturer requested a high-performance tire for a car that really didn’t need it.

Their goal was to wow consumers by giving them something they didn’t expect. They wanted to turn an otherwise mild-mannered family car into a sporty beast on the road. And it worked! For a minute. After some time went by, those high-performance tires wore down and with that, so did the thrills. 

Who Knew Tires Could Have Such an Impact?

And here’s the thing: I’ve driven the exact car he was talking about. That’s when a lightbulb went off in my brain. When we got the 2022 model, I was shocked by how much fun it was to drive this “mom car.” I told all my friends and family how great it was. My husband and I even considered buying one. But when we drove the 2023 model, it was a completely different experience.

The car’s specs were all the same — it was virtually unchanged. Except we didn’t like it. It was dull and unresponsive on the road. It suddenly felt sluggish and boring. I couldn’t figure out what the difference was, but now I know — it was probably the tires. Our 2023 model must’ve already used up all of its high-performance tread, leaving us with what felt like a completely different car.

So, if your once exciting car suddenly feels less fun than it used to, the problem might not be the car. It might be the tires.

Related: 10 Tips To Buy Smarter and Save Money

The Right Tires Make a Difference

I’m definitely no expert when it comes to tires. I still don’t understand the nuances of tread patterns and sidewalls. But I can tell you this much: tires matter. As Lee told me, “they’re the only parts of your car that touch the ground.”

Educate yourself. Do your research. Not only will you save time and money, but when you find that perfect glass slipper fit, you likely have a lot more fun, too. And if you’re looking for high-quality, ultra high-performance tires for your car, I highly suggest checking out the new Pirelli P Zero AS Plus 3.

Disclosure: I was Pirelli’s guest for this event. All opinions are my own. 

Have a thought or comment? Share it with us on social media! You can find us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. And be sure to sign up for our email newsletter!

It’s an ongoing debate: do you really need premium gas? Or are you just, literally, burning your money? Experts and pro drivers agree that premium fuel can boost your car’s performance, and for some cars, it’s necessary. In fact, Mazda has developed engines that generate more power when using premium gas, but run fine on regular, too.

Premium gas, which can range from a small *premium* over the price of regular to as much as 24% more, will also prevent deposits in your engine that are unforgiving, robbing your car of both fuel economy and performance. This was the challenge for Shell: To create an even better premium gas formulation that promises to remove up to 100% of deposits and rejuvenate your engine’s performance.

Its name is as impressive as its promise – Shell V-Power Nitro+ Premium –  available now in nearly 13,000 Shell stations nationwide.

Do You Really Need Premium Gas? Here’s How To Know

Which Cars Really Need Premium Gas?

To know if your car needs premium, look at your owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s site; if a manufacturer advises that premium is required, then you should use it. If premium is “recommended” then it’s up to you. You may find that your car gets better performance – faster acceleration and able to run at higher speeds – using premium.

But some drivers find that using premium gas instead of regular keeps their engine in better operating condition.

That’s the idea behind Shell’s new premium gas, which is specially formulated for engines with direct injection – which is most vehicles these days – but can be used in any vehicle to help clean the engine and provide a performance boost.

The unique technology targets and destroys deposits in the most critical part of the engine, the fuel injector.  Buildup can have a disruptive effect on the spray into the combustion chamber.

“The new Shell V-Power NiTRO+ is our highest-performing fuel yet,” said Barbra Stoyko, Shell’s Senior VP for Mobility, at an event held to launch the product.  “We set out on the journey because we know our customers care about driving their vehicles with fuel that helps keep their engines in peak performance.”

What You Learn About Yourself—and Driving—At BMW’s Performance Driving School

Top Grade Fuel Is the Key to Peak Performance. Ask Any Athlete

Performance was the theme of the evening, which included a panel of three famous athletes known for their winning performances, talking about what motivates them.

Five-time World Series Champion and National Baseball Hall of Fame inductee Reggie Jackson, also known as Mr. October, talked about the thousands of kids he works with in the Bronx through his foundation who inspire him.

Olympic Gold Medal and World Cup champion skier Lindsey Vonn said “never lose sight of your goals despite obstacles”.  She did not mention that an obstacle she overcame was getting back on the race course – and winning – after several knee surgeries.

F1 test driver for the Ferrari team and 24 Hours of Le Mans winner Marc Gené talked about being inspired by the technology of modern racing, such as “scanning our body so the seat is a perfect fit”, making the driver can feel part of the car.

Yes, there was a high-performance Ferrari on display – red, of course – and violinist  Sarah Charness performed on both a modern high-tech electric violin and a rare Stradivarius from the 1750s. Talk about performance!

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