How to Test a Spark Plug to See If It’s Working
Every small gasoline engine has a spark plug, and this key component requires periodic inspection and testing. Learn how to do it here.
How to Clean a Small-Engine Spark Plug
All small engines have a spark plug, and cleaning spark plugs from time to time helps keep your equipment running...
Why Won’t My Car Shift Gears?
Like a manual transmission with a bad clutch, a driver with an automatic transmission may have trouble getting their car...
20 Bad Auto Habits Your Mechanic Wants You to Stop Doing
Keep your mechanic happy by not doing these things to your vehicle.
How Car Brakes Work and How to Tell When They Go Bad
Learn how your brakes slow and stop your car, and how to tell if your brakes aren't working properly.
What Is Car Smog and How Do I Get It Checked?
You've heard of smog, but do you really know what it is? We'll clear up the misconceptions and explain what...
How Often to Change Your Car Oil While Working From Home
Think skipping your daily commute means you can skip your next scheduled oil change? Think again.
Why Is My Car Shaking?
If your vehicle is shaking, it's not just an irritating nuisance. It means there's likely something wrong with your car.
Why Is My Car Making a Clicking Noise When Starting?
Hearing clicking when you're trying to start your car can be upsetting, but it's less so if you understand what...
7 Best Snow Tires for Your Car
No matter what you drive, there's a snow tire for your vehicle. We've chosen seven top performers for you to...
Car Maintenance Schedule to Follow for Good Car Health
Maintenance is key to long car life and good performance. Keep your car in excellent shape by knowing what needs...
Are Snow Tires Right For Your Car?
Wondering if snow tires are right for your car? Learn all about them here, how they work, and if purchasing...
7 Best Tire Chains for Winter Driving
Planning to do some serious winter driving? Snow chains can make a big difference! Here are the best snow chains...
What Is Ideal Tire Pressure in Cold Weather?
Lower temperatures mean lower tire pressure, so be prepared to inflate your tires more often during the cold weather months.
Family Handyman’s Vintage Truck Ads from the ‘80s
As part of our 70th Anniversary celebration, Family Handyman takes a look back at the rough-'n-tumble trucks of the 1980s.
What Makes a Car Backfire?
The gurgle, pop or bang of a car backfiring can be frightening! Wonder what casues that noise? There are lots...
8 Things I Wish I Knew Before Changing My Own Oil
Check out these tips and learn from past mistakes before you pop the hood to change your engine oil.
Why Do My Tires Squeak While Driving?
Squeaking tires while driving isn't just annoying — it could be a warning of a serious problem. Don't ignore that...
Why Do My Brakes Lock Up When Trying to Stop?
Brakes locking up, whether in an emergency or while simply slowing down, can be a frightening experience. Here's what you...
Why Do My Brakes Keep Grinding?
If you hear your brakes grinding, something is wrong. Here are four likely causes for the noise and what you...
Watch Out for These 13 Common Car Repair Scams
Unless you're a car expert or best friends with a mechanic, you might be tricked into paying for services you...
Why Is My Car Leaking Oil?
Whether it's a couple of drops or a big puddle, ignoring an oil leak can quickly lead to expensive engine...
How to Plug a Leaky Tire
Got a flat tire? If a small puncture is the culprit, there's a good chance you can fix it yourself....
This Is How Long You Can Drive on a Spare Tire
Every driver hopes they'll never have a flat. But if that day comes, you need to know how long you...
The One-Second Tire Test That Could Save Your Life
As it turns out, cell phones may not be the biggest deterrent to safe driving.
How to Replace a Broken Brake Light
Got a brake light that's not working? In less time than it takes to drive to the auto repair shop,...
6 Best Oil Filters for Your Car
Need to do an oil and filter change on your vehicle? Wondering which oil filter to buy? Learn about six...
What Type of Oil Does My Car Need?
With so many options, choosing the right motor oil can be bewildering. We cut through the confusion to help you...