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With winter’s grasp firmly upon us, the issue of getting stuck in snow becomes more prominent in our daily lives. Whether you are just slipping a little or the wheels are buried to the axles, these 10 tips on how to get your car unstuck from snow are not only helpful, but can prove to be a lifesaver. All of these tips have been compiled through years of getting stuck ourselves. 1. Don’t Stop! The best tip for how to get car out of snow is to not get stuck in the first place. If you are sliding off the road, headed towards a snow drift, slush pile, etc, do not stop unless you are going to end up in a dangerous situation or hit something. Your vehicle’s momentum can carry you out of the mush. The same goes for when you are stuck and get some movement. Don’t stop until you are absolutely stuck. Even a little bit of constant movement is better than just spinning the wheels. If the way in front of you is clear and you are in no danger of hitting anything, try to keep moving. 2. Don’t Spin the Wheels When you are stuck and your tires are just spinning, stop. That is not how to get unstuck in snow. Unless you are on solid ground (concrete or asphalt), stomping the pedal and spinning the wheels is just going to make it worse. You will just end up digging a hole with the tires and possibly ending up with the chassis sitting on the ground, making getting unstuck ever harder. 3. Apply Proper Power A little accelerator pedal finesse is one answer of how to get a car unstuck from snow. Use your throttle sparingly and in the right way. If too much power is overpowering the tires and snow, use part throttle. You would be surprised how less power might just get you out of a bad situation. 4. Shift to Low Gear Make sure your automatic transmission is shifted into the lowest gear. For manual transmissions, you actually want to shift into a higher gear, such as 3rd or 4th, and use the clutch to control the spin. There will be less shock on the tires and you will have more control to keep the tires from spinning in the snow. 5. Turn Off Traction Control This one might seem counter-intuitive for how to get unstuck from snow, but when you are stuck and need power to the wheels, any slipping will cut the power right when you need it. Traction control is an wonderful feature most of the time, but once you are stuck it can just get in the way. Push the traction control button to turn it off. Some vehicles require you to push and hold the button for several seconds. When in doubt check your owner’s manual. With this feature off you will be able to spin the tires with no interference from the onboard computer. Watch out for using too much power though (see #2). 6. Rock Back & Forth The classic move for how to get a car unstuck by yourself is called rocking. This is a maneuver where use the engine to roll the vehicle forward, put it in reverse, roll it backward, and then shift to drive and roll forward. Doing this several times builds momentum for the vehicle, often getting it out of the rut it is stuck in. Once you are over the hump and rolling in one direction, power out of the mess until you are on solid ground. This trick is a little easier for automatic transmission owners and will take some coordination for those with a manual transmission. 7. Use Traction Devices It is too late to add chains or cables to your tires, but you can use other items to enhance the grip of your tires. Rocks (quarter size and smaller), sand, even small branches and sticks can give you the grip you need to get out. It is a good idea to carry a bucket or bag of sand, pebbles, kitty litter, etc when you live in snow-prone areas. 8. Go Straight Ahead Make sure your tires are pointed straight. There is considerably more stress on the tires when they are turned and plowing through the snow. This means means it is harder for the vehicle to move, and therefore easier for the tire to spin rather than get traction and push or pull the vehicle out of the mess. 9. Let Some Air Out When you just can’t get the grip, try letting some air out of the tires. This makes a wider contact patch and can give you the necessary grip to get out. Just don’t forget to reinflate the tires to the proper specification as soon as possible. Until you get the tires reinflated, keep the speed down so you don’t ruin your tires. 10. Be Ready to Shovel Snow Sometimes the answer for how to get car unstuck from snow if you just have to get down and dig. Carrying a camp folding shovel will make this easier, but a stick, wood board, or even a plastic cup can get the snow, slush and mud out of the way. The idea here is to dig a long ramp from the tire to the flat ground instead of a deep sudden rut that you likely find yourself in. Additionally, there may be a large mass of snow under the chassis, making it difficult to move. You need to try to remove as much of this as possible. If you can’t get your car unstuck with these tips, call a tow truck for assistance. Make sure your tailpipe is clear of snow so that the exhaust fumes don’t back up into the cab of the vehicle. This is now the time to break out your winter emergency car kit, sit tight and wait for the cavalry. Stay safe! If you have any tips on how to get your car unstuck, please leave them in the comments section below. Check out all the winter accessories available on NAPAOnline or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA AutoCare locations for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information on how to get a truck unstuck by yourself or any other vehicle, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local NAPA Auto Parts store. The post 10 Tips on How to Get Your Car Unstuck From Snow appeared first on NAPA Know How Blog. View the full article

Your engine’s serpentine belt is probably not something you check on very often. If it is working then your vehicle will run, the battery will charge, the power steering works, and the engine stays cool. But if that belt were to break you will likely be stuck on the side of the road waiting for a tow truck. That’s why it is important to learn the signs of a bad serpentine belt before it fails. Cracking One of the common signs of bad serpentine belt condition is cracking. With the engine turned off, pop the hood and grab a flashlight to inspect the serpentine belt. If you see more than three cracks in the belt along the same three inch section, it is time for replacement. Be aware though that some modern serpentine belts are made from materials like EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer). These materials are highly resistant to cracking, so a belt that is well past its prime may still look good with no cracking, so it is best to keep checking for other wear indicators if you suspect a worn belt. Squealing A belt that is no longer able to grip the engine pulleys may begin to squeal as it slides over them rather than spinning them. This leans to even more accelerated wear of the belt as well as putting heat into the belt via friction. Even if the squealing goes away, don’t ignore it. Normal serpentine belt operation should be nearly silent. A worn out belt tensioner can also cause the serpentine belt to slip so be sure to check it or else your new serpentine belt may have a short service life. If the belt is chirping like a bird the problem might be one or more accessory pulleys are out of alignment. Not only is this annoying but it will also cause the serpentine belt to wear out faster or even cause the belt to come off.  Worn Out Modern serpentine belts are actually pretty well engineered to resist physical damage. But just because a belt isn’t cracked or falling apart doesn’t mean it is still good. Just like a car tire the surface material on a belt can wear down. When this happens the ribs on the belt lose their original tight tolerances, and therefore their grip on the engine pulleys. The belt may still fit fine on the pulleys, but it won’t be fully contacting the pulley. The belt may actually end up riding on just the pulley ridges which makes for a tiny contact patch. Mileage Even the best serpentine belt doesn’t last forever. If you have been inspecting your serpentine belt regularly and it still looks fine, you should still replace it every 90,000 regardless. Even without any of the signs of worn serpentine belt life racking up that much mileage means it is time for the belt to move on. If you can’t remember when you change your serpentine belt, it is probably time. Electrical Gremlins One of the lesser known signs of bad serpentine belt condition is an electrical system that starts to act up. Modern vehicles are chock full of computers, modules, sensors and more components that rely on certain conditions to remain constant, like voltage. If the serpentine belt is worn to the point where it no longer spins the alternator consistently there could be variation in alternator output. You may even get a check engine light for random systems issues. If you are pulling your hair out chasing electrical issues, check the alternator output for consistency. If it is jumping all over the place a worn serpentine belt may be the issue. Not So Cold AC Another one of the not so common signs of a worn serpentine belt can be a weak AC system. Your air conditioning compressor takes a bit of engine power to turn. You’ve probably noticed that in a car with a small engine turning off the AC feels like it gives you a bit of a power boost. If the serpentine belt can’t grip the AC compressor clutch, it also can spin it to compress the refrigerant back into a liquid to cool you off. You might hear a squealing sound when the AC compressor cycles on, but don’t rely on sound as the only symptom. If your AC isn’t blowing as cold as you remember and you can’t remember when you changed the serpentine belt, it is probably time for a belt replacement. Diagnosing a worn out serpentine belt isn’t as easy as it used to be, but the signs are all there if you are paying attention. Luckily serpentine belts are usually affordable and easy to change, so when the time comes there’s no excuse to put it off. Check out all the belts available on NAPAOnline or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA AutoCare locations for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information on diagnosing engine drive belt tensioner failure, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local NAPA Auto Parts store. The post Serpentine Belt Wear Indicators appeared first on NAPA Know How Blog. View the full article

There comes a point in a DIYer’s life when it is time to put down some wrenching roots in the form of a garage tool box. You may have walked into a friend’s garage or workshop and been in awe of a tool box the size of a tractor trailer. But even owners of serious tool investments had to start somewhere building their collection. Here’s how to build a tool box matched to your garage and your project needs. Consider The Space Before you start to build your own tool box you need to take stock of your situation. Your available garage space is going to guide your tool box options. Take time to measure the spaces you are considering to place a tool box, including overhead height limitations. Some tool boxes have hinged lids so you need to account for overhead space if you plan on opening it. If you are planning on placing the tool box on a table or shelf, make sure it is well reinforced to handle the weight of a fully loaded box. Now that you know what kind of space you have available, let’s look at how to build a tool box that suits your needs. Workbench Top Tool Box Starting small is perfectly fine. A good starting point can be a small portable tool box with drawers. It fits easily on a shelf or a work bench while giving your tools a home base. This is a great step between a portable tool kit and a dedicated garage tool box because it can still be picked up and taken along for a mobile repair. When the time comes to grow your storage space a great next step is adding a rolling bottom base cabinet and simply dropping your current portable tool box on top. Rolling Cart Tool Box Sometimes a good starter garage tool box is a rolling cart. This is especially true if you need to tuck your tools away in a corner when not in use or if your workspace isn’t always in the same place. If you find yourself working in the driveway one day and in the garage the next day, having a rolling tool cart makes sense. The key here is flexibility and mobility. Nice big casters make for easy rolling on uneven surfaces and across expansion joints. Most rolling tool carts are open at the bottom making a great place to store bulky items like jack stands or work lights and cords. The top doubles as a workbench where you can lay out components and stage tools. Depending on the layout there may be an open storage space under a hinged top, which is great for storing sockets and wrenches. There will likely only be three or four drawers, so you will need to be thoughtful about what tools you need for your projects. But the best part about a rolling cart is that it is always handy no matter how big your tool collection. Even if you graduate to a monster technician box, a rolling cart is the perfect portable job organizer. Stacked Chest Tool Box If you have been collecting tools for years you may have already amassed quite a stack of tool bags, molded cases, tool rolls, and more filled with tools. If it is time for your nomadic tool collection to find a home, a stacked tool chest may be just the thing. This is the classic two-piece setup most people picture when you think of a mechanic’s shop. A rolling bottom cabinet with drawers with a separate tool chest on top are nearly universal. The key with this combination is drawer space, lots and lots of drawer space. This lets you split out all those tools into their own spot so you don’t have to dig through them anymore. Hybrid Tool Box For some people there will always be the need to take your tools on the road. Luckily Milwaukee’s PACKOUT system lets you build a tool box kit that is perfectly suited to your needs at home or on the go. Pick up a three drawer toolbox and a wall mount for the perfect hybrid home-travel tool box. The PACKOUT modular storage system work like building blocks allowing you to create an entire wall of tool storage that is ready to go when necessary. Get Organized No matter which tool box you choose you will want to keep things orderly. Organization will come down to your own preferences, but with your new found tool storage space it is recommended to label the drawers to cut down on search time. You can also buy or build tool box drawer organizers to help keep things in their place. Check out all the tools available on NAPAOnline, or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA Auto Care locations for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information how to build your first garage tool box, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local NAPA Auto Parts store. Photo courtesy of Flickr. The post Building Your First Garage Tool Box appeared first on NAPA Know How Blog. View the full article

Engine coolant keeps the waste heat of the combustion process at bay. There’s no denying the importance coolant plays in keeping an engine running, but how do you know when it needs to be changed? But also to make sure your coolant is doing its job it needs to be monitored by a coolant sensor. Let’s look at how to test engine coolant, how to pressure test a cooling system, and equally important how to test coolant temp sensor operation. Why Test Engine Coolant? Your engine coolant is part of an enclosed system, but that system consists of many components of varying materials. Over time under the stress of extreme heat exposure the coolant loses some of its ability to control and conduct those temperatures. There are also parts of the cooling system that can corrode internally leaving tiny rust flakes that act like silty mud. There are all reasons why your engine coolant needs to be tested and periodically replaced when it has reached the end of its service life. But you need to test not only for the right coolant mixture ratio, but also the chemical composition of the coolant. Testing Engine Coolant Ratio The easiest way to test coolant mixing ratio with an antifreeze tester. This neat little device tests the specific gravity of the coolant using either little colored floating balls or a swing arm. The balls and swing arm are calibrated to float at different levels based on the specific gravity of the coolant. Simply draw coolant into the antifreeze tester and compare the results to the included chart. Typically on a floating ball type tester the higher the concentration of ethylene glycol, the more balls that float. You can then estimate the freezing point of the coolant and how well you are protected against the cold. Just be aware that there are different testers for propylene glycol and ethylene glycol, so choose a tester that matches what is used in your cooling system. For a more accurate measurement of your coolant’s freezing point you can use a refractometer. There are analog and digital refractometers but they both work on the same idea. Simply place a few sample drops of coolant in the tool. For the analog refractometer you then look through the eyepiece and read the inside gauge. For the digital refractometer you just have to push a button and the reading will be displayed on the screen. You will need to read the instructions and be familiar with the tool to understand what the results of each one means to the specific gravity of your coolant. Testing Engine Coolant Condition As mentioned earlier your coolant can actually degrade over time. Luckily a simple engine coolant test kit can give you a glimpse of what is in your coolant. When the engine is cool and depressurized (never work on a hot engine’s cooling system) just remove the radiator cap and dip in a testing strip. Make sure to read the directions included with the testing strip to make sure you get a good reading. Most test strips can tell you the pH level, nitrate concentration level, and liquid freeze point. If any of these readings are out of specification, it is time for a coolant system flush and refill. How To Test A Coolant Temp Sensor Knowing how to test coolant temp sensor output is a bit more technical. You will need a multimeter to read the resistance of the coolant temp sensor during the test. You will also need to remove the coolant temp sensor from your vehicle, so refer to a repair manual for the specific procedure. For sensor range testing you will need a container of ice water and a container of boiling water. Finally you need the factory sensor range specifications (usually found in the repair manual) along with a pen and paper to take notes. Once you have the sensor out of the vehicle attach it to the connections on the multimeter. Most sensors have two connections and since you are testing resistance, it does not matter which order is used. If your sensor has more than two connections refer to a vehicle wiring diagram to find the ground connection and the voltage input connection. You will be testing engine coolant temperature sensor resistance output in cold water and hot water, then comparing the two readings to the factory specification found in your repair manual. Check the temperature of the ice water to make sure it is as close to freezing as possible (32 degrees F or 0 degrees C). Set the voltmeter to the 20,000 ohm range. Dip the tip of the sensor in the cold water and observe the reading on the multimeter. When the reading stops changing, write it down on the paper as the cold reading. Repeat the same process with the boiling water, being careful to hold the sensor with tongs or similar tool to reduce the chance of touching the boiling water. Write down the hot temperature reading from the multimeter. Now you can compare the two voltage readings to the factory sensor specifications. If the readings are not within specifications the sensor is bad and should be replaced. Now that you know the steps for how to test an engine coolant temperature sensor, you can decide if it is worth your time or if the sensor is cheap enough to just replace it and move on. How To Pressure Test A Coolant System Luckily learning how to pressure test coolant system components is pretty easy. You will need an engine coolant pressure tester which looks like a bicycle tire pump attached to a universal radiator cap. Start with a cool engine (never work on a hot engine cooling system under pressure). Remove the radiator cap or coolant reservoir cap if so equipped. Attach the pressure tester to the same place where you just removed the radiator cap or reservoir cap. The pressure tester may have a universal rubber fitting or come with an array of adapters to connect with your particular cooling system. Now use the pump to add pressurized air to the cooling system. Watch the pressure gauge on the pressure tester and add roughly 15 psi of pressure (but no more than that). The pressure gauge should hold steady indicating no leaks. If the pressure gauge goes down or does not register any pressure, double check your pressure tester connection just in case. If the system will not hold pressure, you will need to repair the leak. You can use UV dye to help locate the leak if it is not easily apparent. Check out all the cooling system components available on NAPAOnline or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA AutoCare locations for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information on how to test engine coolant sensor output and other cooling system parts, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local NAPA Auto Parts store. The post How To Test Coolant And Coolant Sensors appeared first on NAPA Know How Blog. View the full article

NAPA News: The Hottest Electric Vehicles Coming In 2023 The idea of a world where roads are dominated by all-electric or hybrid vehicles isn’t too far off. As consumer demand for alternative-fuel, emission-free vehicles continues to grow, manufacturers are ramping up production. Industry titans are shifting their focus to create EV spinoff models to join in on the competition. Global EV sales are expected to reach upwards of $9 million in 2023 alone, and $14.2 million in 2025. This upcoming year, the NAPA experts expect to see a wide selection of high-tech EVs from traditional manufacturers like GMC, Subaru, Chevrolet and Nissan, who plan on redesigning well-loved models for the electric market space. Now, more than ever, EV models are being designed for the average commuter, car enthusiast and amateur DIY mechanic. Today’s EVs are versatile, advanced and soon becoming the norm for new-car shoppers. Get ready for 2023, when many mainstream manufacturers plan to launch a variety of EVs that fit multiple lifestyles and budgets. Whether you’re looking for a high-end, deluxe sportscar or a family-oriented crossover with trusted brand reliability, there is something in this lineup to pique your interest. If you’re on the hunt for an electric vehicle or just entertaining some EV curiosity, keep reading as we guide you through some of the coolest models hitting car shows and highways in the near future. The Electrifying Future Of Automobiles Cadillac LYRIQ With a whopping 312 miles of range, the Cadillac LYRIQ doesn’t miss a beat. The 33-inch diagonal dash display incorporates advanced LEDs to provide an in-cabin experience that’s pleasurable to your senses. With seamless adaptability in all weather or road conditions, the Ultium Battery Platform and Driver Mode Selector achieves a seamless, silky and harmonious driving experience. Chevrolet Blazer EV For a classic-looking ride with some trusted towing prowess, the Chevrolet Blazer EV triumphs in all expectations. Get up to 320 miles on a full charge, haul up to 1,500 pounds secure over 59.2 cubic feet of cargo space. This Blazer goes from 0 to 60 mph with Wide Open Watts, making it the perfect ‘everyday’ or ‘getaway’ vehicle for those who value vehicle comfort and adaptability. Chevrolet Equinox EV The all-new electric Chevrolet Equinox isn’t your average Equinox. It fully embraces futuristic style without losing that compact, SUV-feel and affordability. Get up to 290 horsepower with intense towing strength, along with Super Cruise — a hands-free driving mode. With new safety technology (like Reverse Automatic Braking) and a great selection of color options, the Chevy Equinox is shaping up to be a versatile EV, suitable for a variety of lifestyles and budgets. Genesis GV60 With sleek design and cutting-edge technology, the Genesis GV60 presents a first-class EV ‘crossback’ experience that’s stunning in terms of visuals and potential. The illuminated Crystal Sphere shifter and eco-friendly, deluxe interior upholstery bring a unique look to the Genesis GV60 cabin, while the intense horsepower, fast throttle response and charging capability extends the range of your road time. GMC Hummer EV SUV For the adventure-hungry pioneers who want modern off-road machines, keep an eye on the GMC Hummer EV SUV! This electrifying take on the Hummer will help you establish off-road dominance with multiple driving modes, HD Surround Vision and UltraVision, high clearance tires and a revolutionary design engineered to crawl, climb and claw your way through the toughest obstacles. GMC Sierra EV Hyped as ‘the EV of your Dreams,’ GMC has pushed the limits of what an all-electric truck can truly be. The Sierra EV harnesses intense horsepower, torque and mileage along with advanced technology (like Super Cruise) for an exhilarating off-road experience. Charge up in less than 10 minutes to drive 100 miles. Get ready for GMC’s EV power, that’ll allow you to trek mountains and lakes in total luxury. Lexus RZ Lexus’ all-electric RX 450e is a stunning vision of what luxury crossovers can be. With an intense powertrain featuring dual-motor setup, Lexus brings advanced handling and acceleration with its all-wheel drive. While the maximized motor power increases speed and driving finesse, Lexus takes interior comfort and style to the next level with a large 14-inch touchscreen display, an aerodynamic Spindle Body, Ultrasuede-trimmed upholstery and patterned cabin illumination for an other-worldly driving experience. Mercedes-Benz EQE With a state-of-the-art interior featuring active ambient lighting, a customized 3D sound system, and Natural Language Understanding and Keyword Activation, Mercedes-Benz brings futuristic comfort and design to the next level. Add on the speedy charging times, high horsepower and 90 kWh battery capacity, and you’ve got a deluxe ride that checks all the boxes. Nissan Ariya The Nissan Ariya, inspired by ‘Timeless Japanese Futurism,’ boasts comfort, magnificence and incredible range. The simplistic design pays homage to Japanese elements, while the advanced safety technology minimizes operator error. Certain models like the VENTURE+ carry an estimated range of up to 304 miles. That, coupled with the 59.7 cubic feet of cargo space and foldable seats, means the Ariya comfortably fit five passengers. Subaru Solterra Subaru’s all-electric lineup beings with the Subaru Solterra — a lean, outdoors-ready machine with all-terrain capability, zero-emissions powertrain and advanced safety and assist technology. The Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and 8.3 inches of ground clearance provide unmatched stability for better off-road adventures. If you love the trusted reliability and longevity of a Subaru, keep an eye on the 2023 Solterra for next-level features that’ll bring you into the electric age. The EV Age Has Arrived There are plenty more EV models worth honorable mentions, like the Polestar 3 & 4, Toyota bZ4X and Hyundai Ioniq 6. This isn’t an all-inclusive list, but just a few of the exciting developments in the electric vehicle world to help our loyal customers embrace the new age. As you consider EVs and hybrids for your next ride, lean on The NAPA Network to provide key information on caring for your EV, like How To Perform An Electric Vehicle Inspection At Home, Electric Vehicle Road Trip Prep, EV Charging Plug Types, Summer Electric Vehicle Driving Tips and more. Whether or not you’re ready to take the leap into EV ownership, know that the friendly experts at NAPA are keeping up with the times to continue providing modernized parts, services and advice for all your automotive needs. Photo courtesy of Pexels. The post NAPA News: The Hottest Electric Vehicles Coming In 2023 appeared first on NAPA Know How Blog. View the full article

NAPA Shopping Guide: Best Truck Accessories For Winter Whether you are shopping for a loved one this holiday season or hoping to treat yourself after a long year, NAPA Accessories has what truck lovers need! Winter truck accessories are hot items that never go out of style. But aftermarket vehicle upgrades are designed for more than just trendy personalization. Most pickup truck accessories are engineered for protection, safety and lifelong performance. The NAPA truck accessories catalog features trusted, popular brands like BAK, Trident, Coverking, Bestop and WeatherTech. When it comes to winter accessories for trucks, there is no better protective feature to start with than floormats and liners. If you are searching for heavy-duty floor mats with a universal application to any vehicle, our NAPA experts recommend the Husky Liners Heavy Duty Floor Mats. This line of high-quality floor mats is geared for any budget. The deep ridges and raised edges are guaranteed to trap melting ice, snow and muck dripping off construction boots. The raised perimeter keeps messes in the mat and off your interior surfaces. These mats will not shift or slide, and can be easily trimmed for a perfect fit. Husky Liners can be quickly removed, sprayed clean, and repositioned in a matter of minutes. If you are shopping for laser-measured liners that are manufactured to pair precisely with your exact make and model, we highly recommend the WeatherTech DigitalFit Floor Liners. Built from High-Density Tri-Extruded (HDTE) material, this all-weather interior accessory combines strength and flexibility. Each set comes in your choice of Black, Cocoa, Gray or Tan. This product is made in the U.S. and backed by a Limited Lifetime Warranty. If showing off your team spirit is the goal, you can’t go wrong with a set of Logo Floor Mats. Including a wide range of sports logos and military insignias, this line of vinyl or carpet mats is sure to gain you the traction and attention you want from an interior truck accessory. NAPA Has You Covered With Exterior Accessories A deluxe set of exterior accessories for any vehicle can be an investment. When it comes to truck bed accessories, the choices, styles and brands can seem endless. But, if you delay installing robust exterior truck accessories, you may not be using your powerful vehicle to its full potential or might even be risking your safety! One of the most common truck exterior accessories is the tonneau cover. A soft-rolling cover is the perfect stylish addition to your pickup, which helps keep rain, snow and harmful UV rays out of your truck bed and off your cargo. A hard-folding or automatically retractable tonneau cover, coupled with a locking tailgate, can deliver the security you need. Don’t just take our word for it. Check out this 2022 product review by AutoGuide.com on The Best Truck Tonneau Covers, which also includes things to consider before making a purchase. Speaking of keeping items in your truck bed secure and safe, now’s a great time to install a built-in truck toolbox. A standard crossover toolbox, fabricated from solid aluminum, is sealed to prevent water from seeping in. This strong, long-lasting upgrade keeps your tools easily accessible, while protecting your truck bed liner from scratches and dings. If you are concerned about retaining as much visibility as possible out of your rear window, opt for the Dee Zee Red Label Low Profile Crossover Tool Box. It still generates up to 9.5 cubic feet of storage space, and incorporates lockable paddle handles so all of your tools stay right where you left them. If a toolbox behind your cab isn’t accessible enough, or the contractor in your life requires multiple truck bed toolboxes, our experts recommend our full line of side mount toolboxes. Outfit Your Pickup In The Whole Winter Package Personality meets protection with the most visible aftermarket truck accessory: a billet grille. A grille cover creates a barrier against hard ice and broken-apart asphalt that kicks up from roadways, which have deteriorated over a long, grueling winter. A grille also promotes faster warming of your engine in cold weather. A customized grille is a great display of your truck’s personality. Take a look at the Putco Flaming Inferno Grille, which is made of stainless steel and comes in many finishes and flame colors. This innovative product fits over your factory grille with no need for drilling or cutting. Too much? Take it down a notch, while still displaying a touch exterior, with the T-Rex X-MetalGrille. Available in a chrome finish or a black powder coat, this grille is engineered for a precise fit. Another simple, DIY exterior upgrade that any truck owner can tackle is adding on mud flaps. Also called mud guards, these winterized features are designed to cover the back of your tires. Mudflaps are great for preventing rocks, mud, sleet and standing water from spraying the sides of your truck and the vehicles behind you. Not only do mud flaps improve visibility and traction, they also keep your paint job in better condition and your undercarriage free of dents. This protection product is typically sold in pairs, and is often made of rubber with optional steel accents. For many truck owners out on the road, the improvements and replacements performed on their vehicle is never ending, and always exciting. Winter is a great season to shop for truck accessories, from ski and snowboard racks to dynamic light bars. And when you shop on NAPAOnline.com/accessories, all direct shipping to your door is free! The post NAPA Shopping Guide: Best Truck Accessories For Winter appeared first on NAPA Know How Blog. View the full article

Ideally an oil drain plug should always thread in and out easily. It isn’t a structural fastener, just a plug to hold back fluid. But it can be awkward laying under a car trying to get an oil drain plug started when you feel a little resistance. Maybe it is just a piece of crud and the plug will free up in another turn. Except it doesn’t free up and now it is tight and nowhere near seated. Or just as bad the plug now turns freely but doesn’t seat. Now you have a problem. Let’s take a look at how to fix a cross threaded oil drain plug and other oil drain plug problems. How To Fix Cross Threaded Oil Drain Plug If your oil drain plug starts to tighten up before it is seated against the oil pan drain hole, it is probably cross threaded. At the very first sign of resistance you need to stop tightening the plug and back it out again. Once the oil drain plug has been removed you will need to repair the oil drain plug hole threads with a thread restoration tool. This special tool typically comes as a kit with several different thread sizes. Pick the repair tool with the thread size that matches your oil drain plug. Apply a few drops of lubricant to the repair tool and gently thread it into the oil drain plug hole turning it slowly by hand. The repair tool will repair the threads as it goes. Be careful to not allow the repair tool to pass completely through the oil pan drain plug hole, stay within the threaded area. Use a new oil pan drain plug (the old one may be damaged) and thread it in gently by hand to verify the repair. How To Fix A Stripped Oil Drain Plug Hole The first step in how to fix stripped oil drain plugs is to not panic. Once you realize that the oil drain plug won’t tighten, immediately stop turning it. Try to reverse the drain plug out of the hole by hand. If the drain plug only spins in place but does not back out, try inserting a flat-tip screwdriver blade behind the head of the bolt and gently prying away from the pan. Turn the drain plug slowly to help the remaining threads catch on the drain hole. The plug should come out. Once the drain plug is out it is best to just replace it with a new one. To address the stripped oil drain plug hole you have a few options. You can install a thread repair kit to renew the drain threads. You can also use an oversized drain plug or a piggyback oil drain plug. Lastly you can try drilling and tapping the drain hole for a larger drain plug, but this is best done with the oil pan removed from the vehicle to contain any metal shavings. How To Fix A Stripped Oil Pan Drain Plug The easiest answer to “how to fix stripped oil drain plugs” is to simply replace the plug with a new one. A new oil drain plug is cheap insurance against a potential oil leak. While it is entirely possible to repair screw threads, the cheap cost of a new drain plug isn’t worth gambling with your engine’s lifeblood. Oil Pan Replacement If all else fails then the only solution is an oil pan replacement. Depending on how your vehicle was engineered this may be an easy job requiring removing just a few oil pan bolts, or it could require removing the entire engine from the vehicle. Some newer vehicles have plastic oil pans which may not be repairable with common methods. If none of these methods work you can always try a universal oil drain plug. These types of plugs are meant to seal the oil drain hole regardless of the thread conditions. Resist the temptation to use sealants as they might leak back into the oil pan and clog the oil pump pickup. You will still need to perform routine maintenance on your engine, so whichever route you take make sure the oil can still be drained in the future. Check out all the tools & equipment available on NAPAOnline or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA AutoCare locations for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information on how to fix stripped oil drain plug threads, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local NAPA Auto Parts store. The post Cross-Threaded Oil Drain Plug Solutions appeared first on NAPA Know How Blog. View the full article

In some parts of the country road salt and brine are a normal part of life. Road salt is elegantly efficient at the job of controlling ice and snow on streets, but it is also efficient at causing corrosion on vehicles. Road salt gets mixed into wintery slush and then splattered all along the lower parts of vehicles. When you get road salt on car parts and allow it to sit, that’s when trouble begins. It is important to remove salt from car, truck, and SUV surfaces before it can take hold and cause damage. When looking at how to neutralize road salt on car parts you only need the right tools and supplies. Here’s how to remove road salt from car, truck, and SUV surfaces. How to Remove Salt from Car Carpet Even if you have good floor mats there is always the possibility that slush and road salt will make their way onto your interior carpet. The first step in how to remove salt stains from car carpet is to grab your vacuum. Get up as much of the salt crystals while they are dry. Next take a spray bottle and mix together equal parts white vinegar and warm water. The water/vinegar mixture makes it easier to remove salt from car carpet by breaking it down. Working in small areas give the salt stained carpet a good soaking with the water/vinegar mixture and let it sit for a minute. Now take a plastic bristle brush and scrub the stained area to work in the water/vinegar mixture and further loosen any salt. Use a wet/dry vacuum to remove the water/vinegar mixture. You may need to repeat the process several times to fully remove the salt stains. The final step for how to get rid of road salt on car carpet is to give the carpet a thorough vacuum with the wet/dry vacuum so there is no liquid left behind. How to Remove Salt from Car Paint Your best bet for removing road salt from car paint during the winter is your local car wash. Find a touchless car wash and use it often during the winter months. While it is possible to wash your car at home, when the temperatures are hovering near freezing the idea of cold wet hands isn’t so fun. Running your car through the wash every two weeks (or sooner if it is really nasty) will help prevent road salt from eating your car. If you do have a warm snap and want to wash your car at home, take the time to wash it properly to make the most of your lucky weather. Pay special attention to using the two-bucket washing method so you aren’t putting grit back on your paint. Regardless of which method you choose, road salt on car paint needs to be removed before it has a chance to reach the metal body panels. Plus it never hurts to have a clean, nice looking car. How to Remove Salt from Underneath The underside if your vehicle is filled with nearly endless nooks and crannies where road salt can accumulate. One of the main effects of road salt on cars is a crumbling underside. Your best bet for how to clean salt off bottom of car components is your local car wash again. You want to select the undercarriage wash option to get salt that is clinging to your chassis and other undercar parts. This kind of wash will reach into the areas where road salt can accumulate without driving it any further into hidden areas. Something like a pressure washer will technically get the underside of your car clean, but the extreme water pressure can also force the salty mixture deep into crevices, which is the absolute last thing you want. Preventing Road Salt Damage Keeping road salt from ever touching your vehicle’s metal is the most basic form of protection. Before winter settles in give your car a good wash followed by a fresh coat of wax. If you have any paint scratches use a touch-up pen to seal them so salt can’t take hold. You can also opt to have your vehicle treated with a rustproofing material. These compounds are applied to the underside of the vehicle and prevent salt from contacting metal body parts. Check out all the products for cleaning your car available on NAPAOnline, or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA Auto Care locations for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information about how to remove salt from car carpet,the effects of road salt corrosion on cars, and how to neutralize road salt on car parts, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local NAPA Auto Parts store. Photo courtesy of Flickr. The post How To Keep Road Salt From Eating Your Car appeared first on NAPA Know How Blog. View the full article

A long time ago headlight bulb options were pretty straight forward. You had round or rectangular headlight bulbs in just a few sizes that were used by pretty much every automaker. Basically you just had to match the bulb to the hole in the grille and make sure it was high or low beam (or a combination of the two). But in the early 1980s the Lincoln Mark VII introduced the idea of a headlight assembly where the bulb could be replaced like a flashlight, while the lens and housing stayed on the car. While this made service simpler, it didn’t exactly make finding the correct type of headlight bulb at the parts store easier. Let’s take a look at the different types of headlight bulbs available and where you might find them. Sealed Beam Headlight Bulbs We’ll start with the classic sealed beam bulb. These bulbs are large and usually round or rectangular. The lens, reflector, and filament are one non-serviceable assembly. The lens is usually glass. Most passenger vehicles moved away from sealed beam bulbs in the 1990s, but there are plenty of vehicles still on the road that use them. In particular the fleet vehicle industry stuck with sealed beam bulbs thanks to cheap replacement costs and ease of service. Today unless you have a vintage car or work truck you probably won’t be buying a sealed beam headlight bulb. But if you do happen to have one of these vehicles and want to move into the modern age there are actually LED headlight bulb versions of sealed beam assemblies on the market. Just remove your old halogen bulb and update your headlights to the 21st century. Halogen Headlight Bulbs By far the most common type of headlight bulb is the halogen bulb. If you are wondering “what headlight bulb do i need” the likely answer is a halogen bulb. These bulbs give off a nice bright long lasting light thanks to the presence of one of the halogen family of gasses sealed inside. Their design makes for a much hotter bulb though, so the headlamp assembly has to be designed to handle the high heat output. Here’s a few common sizes and common vehicles where you might find them: H11 headlight bulb – 2007-2020 Chevrolet Silverado, 2005-2017 Ford Mustang, 2006-2021 Honda Civic 9003 headlight bulb – 2007-2020 Honda Fit, Harley Davidson motorcycles, Kawasaki motorcycles 9005 headlight bulb – 1987-2005 Buick LeSabre, 2001-2016 Toyota Corolla 9006 headlight bulb – 1995-2007 Toyota Avalon, 2000-2014 Subaru Impreza 9007 headlight bulb – 1996-2003 Dodge Grand Caravan, 1996-2006 Chrysler Sebring 9012 headlight bulb – 2011-2015 Chevrolet Volt, 2004-2007 Nissan Maxima Some halogen bulbs work as fog light bulbs as well, so one bulb can be used for a myriad of applications. High-Intensity Discharge (HID) Headlight Bulbs You probably heard about HID headlights years ago when talking about luxury cars. While these ultra bright bulbs were once the realm of the high end market, now you can find all kinds of normal vehicles with the option for HID headlights. These lights don’t use a filament like a normal bulb, but use extremely high voltage to strike an electrical arc inside a sealed glass bulb. A separate ballast is used to get the lighting arc started, so this system is slightly more complicated. If your vehicle is equipped with higher end options then HID lighting is likely among those features. If your HID lights stop working, make sure to check the ballast as well. Light-Emitting Diode (LED) Headlight Bulbs If you have a newer vehicle with LED headlights then you likely won’t need a new LED bulb for quite some time. LED lights have long service lives and are very energy efficient. For automotive use on modern vehicles the LED light itself is likely part of the headlamp assembly and not meant to be replaced by itself. So if you have factory LED headlights and are asking “what kind of headlight bulb do i need” the answer is the entire headlamp assembly. If you have an older vehicle there are LED retrofit options that simply plug in to the existing wiring and bulb mount. These let you use LED headlight bulbs in a vehicle that was not originally equipped with them. Figuring out what is the best type of headlight bulb really comes down to vehicle application. Typically it is best to choose the same type of bulb the the design engineers specified for the vehicle. While it is possible to upgrade headlights, remember that the NHTSA has strict guidelines that control not just the light type but also how it is projected. Just dropping a brighter bulb in a headlamp assembly can seriously impair the vision of oncoming drivers due to a mismatch in bulb and reflector. Check out all the headlight products available on NAPAOnline or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA AutoCare locations for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information on answering “what headlight bulbs do i need” all the way to picking the best LED headlight bulbs, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local NAPA Auto Parts store. Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons. The post What Headlight Bulb Do I Need For My Car? appeared first on NAPA Know How Blog. View the full article

Save Your Spring This Winter! For centuries, the wintertime meant people stayed mostly indoors, keeping cozy and warm, from October until April. These days, the coldest months of the year are usually the most active, and it seems there’s no end to all the decorating, celebrating and snow-worshipping! From that giant Halloween skeleton to the turkey fryer, holiday lights and snowboards, our wintertime gear and holiday decor often ends up disorganized in that catch-all place: the garage. Worst of all, that jumbled mess means spending the first warm, sunny days of spring cleaning and organizing your garage. This year, don’t get overwhelmed by letting a cluttered garage spoil your season. NAPA Auto Parts is here to help you find the perfect storage and organization solutions for your winter gear and decor. Let us show you how to keep your garage tidy, so you can skip the storage stress and save your spring. A Place For Every Fun And Festive Thing So, the holidays are over and you got some great gear. A brand new set of skis and poles, a shiny new sled and even some snow chains for your tires — so you can drive over those snowy mountain passes safely! But where is it all going to go? If the best answer is the garage, know that NAPA Auto Parts can help you get organized, so your garage stays tidy and your gear remains damage-free. Consider a Ski and Snowboard Storage System that mounts to your wall and keeps your valuable equipment from sliding into a corner or collecting moisture on the floor. Best of all, you can conveniently hang your snow-covered boots upside down so they dry faster and stay mildew-free. While you’re at it, mount a second Storage Kit and keep your rakes, shovels and yard tools organized and easily accessible. For a more compact wall storage solution, consider a reliable set of Heavy-Duty Wall Straps for holding looped holiday lights, tire chains and extension cords. When space gets tight on the floor and wall, there’s nowhere to go but up. Garage Hoists feature convenient pulley systems that mount to your garage ceiling. This is a great option for storing winter gear like sleds, skis and snowboards or summer toys like kayaks, bikes and canoes. It also works for ladders, ramps and other home and yard equipment. You can even wrap and store oversized yard decor and artificial trees, so they stay off the floor and free of moisture. Every Fun and Festive Thing In It’s Place Decorating was a nightmare last year! You went into the garage to unpack the inflatable reindeer and found that, over the summer, they’d met a moldy end in the corner. Then, you had to rush out and buy new strands of lights because the ones you had were piled in a tangled mess. And let’s just hope Nana never finds out that you stored one of her priceless glass ornaments in a damp cardboard box and it got crushed. This year is all about keeping the garage organized and your decor stored properly. Keep wreaths, garlands and seasonal dishes secure and dry in a Nesting Storage Container. The metal latches keep the lid firmly closed and the nesting design means everything fits together when not in use, saving valuable storage space. Ornaments and smaller, more delicate items can be wrapped and stored in the super-adaptable Milwaukee Packout System. These interlocking storage boxes are durable and customizable, so you can configure your Milwaukee Packout system however you want. Best of all, your Milwaukee Packout system can be stacked on a Dollyfor easy transport. Finally, there’s no need to store your containers and Milwaukee Packout on the floor. Keep everything elevated, organized and easy to find using a Shelving System. These shelving solutions from Iron Horse include five durable particle board shelves, and the boltless design allows you to quickly and easily assemble and disassemble them. The riveted steel construction ensures they can hold a total of 3,800 evenly distributed pounds. Now, you can shop all our great storage solutions as well as our thousands of parts and accessories and get rewarded with NAPA Rewards! After you sign up, you’ll receive One Point for every $1 you spend, and when you accumulate 100 Points, you’ll automatically receive $5 off your next purchase. ‘Tis the season for getting organized, and gifting great garage storage solutions from NAPA Auto Parts! Photo courtesy of Unsplash. The post Garage Storage For Winter appeared first on NAPA Know How Blog. View the full article

Let There Be Light It’s a simple truth that humans have known since the dawn of time: everything is easier to do when you can shine a little light on it! This is especially true in a garage, workshop or work site. Even in the brightest automotive garage, the dimly lit conditions of a Lexus RX350 or a Honda Accord engine bay, coupled with the complex arrangement of the engine components, can present a big problem for a mechanic looking to identify a problem and undertake repairs. In the past, finding a dependable work light that performs in an auto shop setting was challenging. Most mechanic work lights used wall sockets, so your range of use was limited by the length of the cord. The brightest work lights usually use incandescent bulbs that could get very hot—a recipe for disaster when working with hazardous fumes and flammable liquids. Not only that, but incandescent lights usually require safety cages, which make them too bulky to fit into the dark recesses of an engine. The best auto mechanics are never without a trusty pen light tucked in their coveralls; however, they tend to have a limited number of lumens plus use small watch batteries, making them very inconvenient. Thanks to the advancement of LED (Light Emitting Diode) light technology, automotive work lights are now far safer, more efficient, smaller and brighter. The best work lights for mechanics should be: Rechargeable – you should get at least two hours of bright light; 170 lumens or higher is ideal Rugged – the housing should feature strong, weathertight thermoplastic polymer construction such as ABS to withstand use in a garage or work environment Reliable – you should not have to worry that your work light will shatter or overheat A bonus in modern mechanic work lights is their easy mounting capability. There’s no need to drill any holes or glue anything—as most work lights feature magnetized bottoms and durable hooks—so that you can mount them to the hood of your vehicle or the side of the engine bay, as well as hang them from the latch mechanism. These magnets are safe to use around metal tools and sensitive electronics. Illuminate the Job with NAPA and Carlyle Tools Whether you’re wrenching on the exhaust system of a lifted Ford F150, keeping your home renovation site lit or setting up a tent after sunset, a work light solution from Carlyle Tools is the best way to illuminate the job at hand. Named after one of NAPA’s founding members Carlyle Fraser, the brand is synonymous with hard-working reliability and quality craftsmanship. The NAPA Network is proud to offer this professional-grade line of lighting solutions so you can get a safe, reliable illumination to get your work done right. A rechargeable, slim work light from Carlyle is a must-have for close-quarter repairs in an engine bay. You get a full two hours of illumination if used on the high setting and up to five full hours on the low setting. The slim work light is small enough to maneuver into tight spaces and offers a brilliant 500 lumens, while the convenient magnetic base and hook offer cord-free mounting and hanging. Lose those smoky, unsafe incandescent cage lights on the job site and replace them with this super-brilliant rechargeable 1000-lumen work light, which offers up to two hours of illumination on the high setting and five hours of luminescence on the low setting. The plastic/aluminum construction provides durability without added weight. For a smaller option that features both flood and spotlight functionality, the smaller work light features 260 powerful lumens with up to nine hours of continual brightness on a single charge. The safe and comfortable rechargeable headlamp offers the perfect hands-free light that shines right where you need it. The old-school auto mechanics will appreciate that Carlyle also offers a rechargeable pen light—small and reliable with no need for a watch battery. Best of all, Carlyle also offers a cutting-edge charging pad system that wirelessly charges a wide range of their lighting solutions—such as the mechanic flashlight—for fast and easy wireless charging. You’ll never get left in the dark again when you have the brilliant and reliable illumination of NAPA and Carlyle Tools lighting solutions at your side! Sign up for NAPA Rewards today and get 1-point for every $1 you spend. Once you earn 100 points, you get $5 off your next NAPA purchase. The post Must-Have Mechanic Work Light Solutions appeared first on NAPA Know How Blog. View the full article

In some ways electric vehicles are just like any other vehicle on the road. Wheels are powered to move passengers from one place to another along a roadway. It’s the same basic principle that carried us past the days of the horse and buggy. In fact many of the early horseless carriages were actually electric powered. But modern electric vehicles deal in much higher voltages and amperages than anything on the road in the past few decades. Anyone who already works on internal combustion engine (ICE) powered vehicles probably has a decent set of tools, but when it comes to servicing hybrid and electric vehicles (EV) there are a few more things to consider. Let’s take a look at EV tools versus ICE tools and learn what you might need for your EV tool kit. Hand Tools Starting with hand tools the functions are pretty much the same. A screwdriver still has a handle and a tip, wrenches still have jaws, sockets still have six or twelve points. The big difference comes down to stopping the flow of electricity either through the tool or to the user. You’ve probably seen insulated tools before, likely a screwdriver in a set. These are pretty common for household electrical work. But did you know there are insulated tools and then there are non-conductive (composite) tools? An insulated tool is typically made of metal (like a normal tool) which is then covered with a non-conductive substance like epoxy or rubber. This interrupts the flow of electricity from the tool to the user’s hand. But insulated tools need to be checked regularly to verify if the insulating coating is still intact. Some tools use different colored insulation layers to signal if a tool is ready for replacement. If the warning layer is visible, the tool is no longer safe to use. The last point is one that normally isn’t a part of hand tool ownership. Hand tools either work or they are broken. Insulated electric tools may still technically work as say a wrench, but they will not be safe to use around electrical components once the insulation has been compromised. Composite tools are actually made differently than normal tools. For example a composite ratchet will have a handle made completely of a strong non-conductive material with no metal inside. This prevents electricity from traveling from the head of the ratchet to the user’s hand. Composite sockets will still have a metal hex insert, but that metal is attached to a strong non-conductive composite, and then to the square drive. The non-conductive material breaks the circuit and blocks the flow of electricity. Diagnostic Tools Working on any modern vehicle requires the right diagnostic equipment regardless of the power source. While a technician working on an electric vehicle won’t be diagnosing ignition or emissions problems, they will be chasing down other normal issues like bad sensors or damaged modules. But one difference in EV tools vs. ICE tools is the power handling capability of the electric vehicle diagnostic tool. For example any multimeter intended to be used on an electric vehicle must be rated CAT III to handle the high voltages often found inside these vehicles. Likewise the test leads need to be also rated for higher voltage use. While internal combustion engines are starting to use 48-volt systems in areas, some electric vehicles operate in the hundreds of volts so special EV diagnostic tools are a must. Shop Tools Your shop may already be well equipped to work on common internal combustion vehicles, but there are some special electric vehicle repair tools you may need to consider. For example, your two-post lift likely needs different footpads to correctly lift electric vehicles. You also need to make sure your lift can be configured to handle different vehicle weight biases (front to rear) for balanced lifting. Speaking of lifting, many electric vehicle and hybrid batteries weigh a considerable amount and are mounted to the bottom of the vehicle. Safely removing one of these batteries should be left up to a specialized lifting table designed for the task. Most people are not aware that air conditioning compressors used in hybrid and electric vehicles have a special type of oil that is designed to be non-conductive. That means you will need an air conditioning service machine that can prevent cross-contamination between systems. Considering that the air conditioning compressor on a hybrid or electric vehicle is powered by a high-power electric motor rather than an engine pulley, the different oil requirement makes sense. Safety Equipment It’s a good idea to wear gloves when working on any vehicle, but when working on an electric or hybrid vehicle it is mandatory. Specifically insulated safety gloves designed to handle high voltage. Gloves must also be tested before each use for any tears/cuts/leaks/wear that might allow a path for electricity to travel. A good pair of ASTM F 2413-11 safety boots with EH (electrical hazard) rating is also recommended. It is also important to let others know when a technician is working on a hybrid or electric vehicle. Placing orange cones around the bay and a line of caution tape signals to others that the vehicle is not to be approached. The safety gear worn by the technician is only designed to protect one person, all others must keep their distance during servicing of electric vehicle components. Any shop that is considering working on electric or hybrid vehicles needs an insulated rescue hook. In the unfortunate event of a technician suffering an accident while working on an electrical component the insulated rescue hook allows the victim to be pulled away from the electrical source without endangering the rescuer. This also means that a technician should never work on a hybrid or electric vehicle alone, there should always be another person present in the shop. Lastly anyone attempting to service an electric or hybrid vehicle should be properly trained. Old fashioned “on the job” training may be fine for most maintenance procedures on a normal car, the same cannot be said for electric or hybrid vehicles. The potential power output of an EV battery is just too high to risk working on a vehicle without at least basic training. Luckily NAPA Autotech can help anyone acquire the right training they need to become a successful technician capable of handling electric and hybrid vehicles. The post EV Tools vs. ICE Tools – What You Need To Know appeared first on NAPA Know How Blog. View the full article

Not every vehicle matches the concept its designers and engineers intended. What might have been a stellar idea on paper may have gone wrong in production. Sometimes the court of public opinion is more accurate, and the public has shown these cars to be real turkeys or duds. Our list of worst cars includes the familiar, the forgotten and the unloved. However, time can be a redeemer, as even some of the awful ones are now collectors. DMC DeLorean With its space-age design, brushed stainless-steel outer body panels and gull-wing doors, the DMC DeLorean promised to live up to its early 1980s hype. What should have been a strong competitor to the Porsche 911 and Chevrolet Corvette turned out to be an absolute dud. Poor build quality, a sticking throttle, suspension issues and a wonky speedometer led to a tremendous slowdown in the manufacturing process. They only produced three model years before the company shuttered. The main reason why anyone remembers the DeLorean is its significant role in the “Back to the Future” movie franchise. Today, the DeLorean is a collectible, largely due to its Hollywood exposure. Ford Taurus When it was released in 1986, the Ford Taurus revolutionized the midsize sedan market with its front-wheel-drive layout and sharply improved quality standards. Through its second generation, the Taurus remained one of the industry’s top sellers. But in 1996, this all went downhill. The oval design, along with the circular headlights, rounded body panels and oval rear window, were too much of a contrast to the previous generation, causing the Taurus to lose its best-seller status to the Toyota Camry. As a result, Ford hurried its next makeover, bringing out a new and much less controversial design just four years later. Pontiac Aztek What were they thinking? The 2001-2005 Pontiac Aztek is one vehicle that simply shocks. On the one hand, it is one of the worst looking cars ever, with a weird front fascia, strange lighting elements, odd rear side windows and a tricky tailgate. On the other hand, the 3.4-liter pushrod V6 engine paired with a four-speed automatic transmission was a sluggard. Somehow, Pontiac built this turkey car for five years before dropping the model. After another five years, the brand itself was canceled. Oddly thanks to the hit TV show “Breaking Bad” there has been a resurgence in collecting surviving Azteks in good condition. Subaru B9 Tribeca It was supposed to be a ground-breaking vehicle for Subaru, its first model with an available third row. Instead, the Subaru B9 Tribeca was heavily criticized for its triangle grille and rounded body panels. The two-part name was off-putting, with some calling it the “benign Tribeca” due to its polarizing design. Two years after its 2006 release, Subaru refreshed the vehicle and dropped the B9 appellation. The Tribeca continued for seven more years before succumbing to slow sales. Nissan Juke Credit Nissan with pushing the styling envelope in recent years with several models, including the boxy Cube, the Murano CrossCabriolet drop-top SUV and the Juke. Not since Ford built the Edsel Corsair has so much ugliness been released by one manufacturer. The 2011-2017 Nissan Juke was known for its design drama, including bulges, swells and sharp angles. It’s as if the designers married a rally racer with a utility vehicle and added provocative lighting elements to give it an insectoid appearance. Inside, motorcycle-inspired gauges, funky colors and striking cloth seating fabric were not welcome highlights. Notably, the Juke was a hoot to drive, with an available 6-speed manual gearbox. Thus, its “worst car” designation is truly in the eye of the beholder. Worst Cars Whether you own a classic or a turkey car, you should protect it against the outside elements with a car cover. Preserve your car from the harsh winter weather or just cover it up to shield it from glares. Check out all the car cover products available on NAPAOnline, or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA AutoCare locations for routine maintenance and repairs. To learn more about your favorite car brands, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local NAPA Auto Parts store. Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons. The post 5 Worst Cars That Were Real Turkeys appeared first on NAPA Know How Blog. View the full article

Losing traction in the snow is no one’s idea of a good time. Even in areas not known for abysmal snowstorms, winter can create icy and hazardous road conditions that drivers must be prepared to deal with. Luckily the solution of adding snow chains for tires used on vehicles that need to brave the wintery roads. Adding tire chains for cars can be a workable solution to get you where you need to go when the roads are not your friend — but they can also be a pain. Knowing when you should be putting chains on tires can help you get out of a slippery situation, but you have to know what you’re doing first. Here’s how to tell if it is time to use snow tire chains on your vehicle. Technically Speaking While tire chains are legal in all 50 states different laws regulate chain usage in different states. Even Hawaii has a law on the books for tire chains (only if you are driving on on Mauna Kea though). Before you invest in a shiny new pair, make sure you know whether chains are allowed, permitted or even required in some cases. Generally, a chain “requirement” means you must have them in your vehicle if you want to pass certain checkpoints that pop up in inclement weather. Some go as far as requiring tire chains to be installed when road conditions reach a certain point with fines and penalties for non-compliance. Places where chains are permitted usually come with some disclaimer that restrict their usage, so make sure you know the law and follow it. There may even be different tire chains laws for passenger vehicles versus commercial trucks. Most tire chain laws are meant to help protect the roadway surface from damage caused by using chains without enough snow coverage. Leaving snow chains on tires when the conditions don’t warrant it can also damage your tires. The other important factor to consider is whether your vehicle is suitable for chains. You can find chains for most tire sizes, but there must be enough clearance for them to fit on without causing damage to the body, undercarriage or brakes. Make sure to check clearance around the front tires with the steering wheel turned fully to each side to make sure nothing rubs. If clearance is tight you may want to consider snow cables, which sometimes have a lower profile. Consult your owner’s manual for tire chain specifications and allowances. Be Prepared Because chains are something you will likely need to take on and off at least once per trip, and because the conditions surrounding their use are usually cold, soggy and snowy, it’s best to practice installation first, ideally when the weather is still nice. Without driving the car anywhere, put on your car snow chains and take them off a couple of times to get the hang of it so that when you do eventually need them, you aren’t stuck fumbling and trying to figure out how to get them on with freezing fingers. Also, if you’re carrying car tire chains, pack a safety vest as well. There’s a good chance you’ll have to pull onto the side of the road at some point to adjust or remove them, and if it’s snowing, visibility will be low. Using Chains For Tires Under The Right Conditions Tire chains for cars should only be used if there is a layer of snow or ice on the road. Using chains on bare pavement can cause substantial damage to both your tires and the road itself. If you turn onto a road that’s clearly been plowed and salted, pull over and remove the chains. It always pays to be careful when driving in freezing conditions, but chains require a whole new level of attention and care. Snow chains for car, truck and SUV applications all work the same way to increase grip but there are limitations. When on, the car should not be driven above 30 miles per hour and you have to be mindful of curbs when parking. On two-wheel drive vehicles, chains must be attached to wheels on the drive axle, but ideally you get them on all four. If installed only in the front there will be a tendency to oversteer and a tendency to understeer if they’re only in the back. Four-wheel drive vehicles should have chains installed on all tires. Once the tire chains are installed drive a block or two and tighten them again. Some vehicles with selectable driving modes may need to be in the appropriate mode when using snow chains, so check your owner’s manual just in case. Once you get to an area of clear roadway, take off the chains. The aggressive traction that make tire chains so effective can also cause increased tire wear, so only keep them on when you need them. Though they can be cumbersome, snow chains make a real difference in winter weather when you need to get somewhere without mother nature’s permission, but only if they’re being used safely and effectively. Otherwise, you’ll just be spinning your wheels. Once you are done using your snow chains inspect them for any breaks, corrosion, or physical damage before putting them away. Give them a good spray with WD-40 so they will be ready for next season. Check out all the tire chains and tire cables available on NAPAOnline or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA AutoCare locations for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information on tire chains for cars, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local NAPA Auto Parts store. Photo courtesy of Flickr The post Chains For Tires 101: When Should You Use Tire Chains for Cars? appeared first on NAPA Know How Blog. View the full article

If you drive a vehicle with an internal combustion engine, you can think of the battery like your vehicle’s beating heart. The battery cables act like arteries running a current to the alternator, which powers electronic systems such as the ignition system, the ECM (Electronic Control Module) and the lighting system. Bad Battery Cable Symptoms Just like in other areas of your vehicle, the components of your battery system will wear out and fail over time. Symptoms of worn or frayed battery cables are like that of a dying battery: Dimming or flickering of interior lights or headlights Engine hesitation when starting Clicking noises If you notice a buildup of flaky white or blue crust around the top or sides of your battery, that’s corrosion. It’s a common problem caused by small amounts of escaping hydrogen gas or leaking electrolytes on the top of your battery or the battery cable terminals. Corrosion can develop on older batteries that were overcharged, undercharged or exposed to certain environmental factors. The NAPA Network can show you how to replace battery cables in your car, as well as replace your battery, your battery terminals, your battery posts and—depending on the extent of the damage—your battery tray and battery hold-down. If you determine your battery has good voltage by using a multi-meter and doesn’t need replacing, then it’s time to check your battery cables. Start at the cable terminals attached to the battery posts. Inspect both the positive and negative cables for fraying, knicks and splits. If you see anything that doesn’t look right, it’s time to replace the cables. Replacing Battery Cables Just like any good at-home automotive repair, you should start with all your tools ready to go, as well as safety equipment such as eye protection and gloves. Replacing battery cables is straightforward, and you’ll need the following: A Screwdriver A Socket Wrench A Wrench A Ratchet Step 1 – Using the screwdriver or socket wrench, gently disconnect the battery terminals from the battery posts—starting with the negative cable—then disconnect the positive to avoid shorting and potential danger. Trace the path of the negative cable to the chassis, then trace the positive cable to the fuse box. Make sure to take a picture or otherwise note the course so you can route the new cables correctly. Step 2 – Use the ratchet to loosen the negative ground nut, then remove the nut that holds the positive cable to the fuse block. Inspect these for corrosion and damage and replace them if the metal is soft or the threading is deteriorated. Inspect the terminal posts on top of the battery and use a battery terminal cleaner to remove any corrosion. Step 3 – Install the new cables starting with the negative. Reattach the negative ground nut to the chassis and the nut that holds the positive cable to the fuse block. Make sure the nuts are tight and snug. Step 4 – Route the cables the way you originally found them and connect the terminal ends to the clean battery posts starting with the positive cable, then the negative cable. Step 5 – Start your vehicle and ensure the electrical systems work properly. Removing corrosion, cleaning your battery terminals and replacing worn battery cables is a part of routine vehicle battery maintenance that most at-home mechanics can do. However, this job involves the electrical system of your vehicle, so if you don’t feel comfortable doing the replacement yourself or can’t find the time, we are here to help. Just find a friendly local NAPA AutoCare location near you, and one of our ASE-certified technicians will replace the battery cables in your vehicle for you. We can even help you with an Instant Repair Estimate to help you budget for your repairs and get you back on the road in no time! Photo courtesy of Pexels. The post How to Replace Battery Cables appeared first on NAPA Know How Blog. View the full article

It should come as no surprise that car batteries not only come in all shapes and sizes, but also in various electrical capacities. This makes sense because the wide variety of vehicle sizes and types in use make it unlikely that a single battery can serve every application. But does car battery size matter? And what if you are wondering what size battery for my car is best? Let’s take a look at why car batteries are different sizes and what car battery sizes you might find under the hood of most cars, trucks, SUVs and vans. Why Are Car Batteries Different Sizes? The very earliest cars used batteries of various sizes with no standards whatsoever. Battery manufacturers simply made batteries the way they wanted and car makers picked whatever fit. But then the Battery Council International (BCI) was formed and battery sizes started to fall in line with the standards set forth by the BCI. This helped simplify and standardize automotive engineering designs with common battery tray sizes as well as power output measurements. Common Car Battery Sizes Over the years car manufacturers figured out it was easier to just stick to a few common battery sizes to use across their production lines. The car battery size chart below lists out the dimensions of the most common car battery sizes: GROUP NO. NAPA PART NO. LENGTH (inches) WIDTH (inches) HEIGHT (inches) 24 8424 10-3/4 6-3/4 9 24F 8424F 10-3/4 6-3/4 9 25 8425 9-3/4 6-7/8 8-7/8 27 8427 12 6-3/4 9 34 8434 10-3/4 6-7/8 8 34R 8434R 10-3/4 6-7/8 8 35 8435 9-9/16 6-7/8 8-7/8 41 (T65) 8441 11-9/16 6-7/8 6-7/8 42/58R 8442 10 7-1/4 6-7/8 47 (H5/L2) 8447 9-9/16 6-7/8 7-1/2 48 (H6/L3) 8448 11 6-7/8 7-1/2 49 (H8/L5) 8449 13-15/16 6-7/8 7-1/2 55 8456 8-3/4 6 8-1/2 58 8458 10 7-1/4 6-7/8 65 8465 12 7-3/8 7-5/8 75 8475 9-3/4 7 7-1/4 78 8478 10-3/4 6-7/8 7-1/4 86 8486 9 6-7/8 8-1/8 96R 8496R 9-9/16 6-7/8 6-7/8 99R (T4) 8499R 8-1/4 6-7/8 6-7/8 75/86 (DT) 8425/75 9-3/4 7 8-1/8 34/78 (DT) 8434/78 10-3/4 6-7/8 8 That may look like a long list of car battery sizes, but there are actually many more in use around the world. A more inclusive battery size chart for cars, trucks, SUVs and other vehicles can be found in the NAPA Batteries Application Guide here. Size Isn’t The Only Factor Looking at the above car battery sizes chart you may notice that some batteries are physically the same size, but that doesn’t mean they are interchangeable. The location of the positive and negative battery terminals, the battery case mounting provisions, and the type of battery terminal connections are all important factors. There are also differences in battery capacity. The cranking amp (CA) capacity and cold cranking amp (CCA) capacity are both important factors in matching a battery with a vehicle’s needs. The CA and CCA both refer to the amount of amps available to start the vehicle at a certain temperature. Then there is the reserve capacity (RC) of the battery which is how long a battery can deliver 25 amps of power until it is drained down to 10.5 volts. What Is The Right Battery Size For My Car? If you are trying to find the right battery size for your car then the answer is the size that your vehicle’s manufacturer designed it to use. Trying to shoehorn in a bigger battery may sound like a good idea, but if the battery mount can’t hold it securely then you may end up with a big headache. Likewise picking a smaller battery than specified could lead to electrical issues if it can’t handle the electrical load. It may also rattle around in the battery tray leading to a shorter battery life or even a dangerous short circuit. And even if the car battery group size chart says a battery physically fits, it may be the wrong capacity or voltage. Trust the engineers that designed the vehicle and only replace the battery with an exact size unit. You can change your car battery yourself if you have the proper tools, or let the experts at your local NAPA Autocare handle it for you. The post Car Battery Sizes – Does It Matter? appeared first on NAPA Know How Blog. View the full article

Some automotive issues make themselves known instantly and in a big way. But signs of a bad water pump aren’t always so brash. A bad water pump can wreak havoc on your engine and should not be taken lightly. But how does a water pump go bad? Here’s a few bad water pump symptoms that can help you deduce if repairs are in order. Leaking Coolant One of the most common symptoms of a bad water pump is a leak from the water pump itself. Many water pumps are constructed with a weep hole below the pump drive shaft. Normally this weep hole is dry as the pump drive shaft seals keep the coolant at bay and away from the water pump bearings. But if the seal fails coolant can then seep past harming the water pump bearings and dripping out of the weep hole. The driver may notice a sweet smell of coolant cooking off the hot engine or a small puddle of coolant under the vehicle when parked. If the coolant is dripping on the accessory drive belt system there may be damp areas under the hood. If your vehicle develops a coolant leak or you find yourself adding coolant to keep it filled, check the area around the water pump just in case. Overheating One of the common signs of bad water pump functionality is overheating. The pump may not leak coolant, but the pump mechanism itself may have failed. Over time the fins of the pump can actually wear down to the point where they are no longer moving coolant. Cavitation can eat away at the metal pump vanes and pump surfaces. Plastic water pump vanes can disintegrate over time as the plastic ages. This all adds up to coolant that is no longer moved through the engine block and into the radiator to be cooled, leading to overheating. Bad Noises Water pumps have bearings that have to stand up to not only engine heat but also tension from the drive pulley. If you start to hear a grinding noise or high pitch squealing from the front of the engine, the water pump may be trying to tell you something. Try and rule out squealing belts by double checking belt condition and belt tension. Once you are sure the belt isn’t the cause try to pinpoint the source of the bad water pump noise. Be careful to not place any body parts near that rotating accessory drive system or the engine cooling fan. Simply stand in front of the running engine with the hood open and observe for a few minutes. Oil Contamination How to tell if water pump is bad can sometimes depend on the design of the engine. Some water pumps are buried inside the engine which makes it difficult to observe any problems. For example Ford Duratec V6 engines have the water pump located behind the timing cover. A leak from the water pump will allow coolant to mix with oil around the timing chains but the leak will not be visible on the outside of the engine. Checking the engine oil regularly and looking for an increase in oil level (due to coolant collecting in the oil pan) or a milkshake-like oil appearance are signs of possible symptoms of a bad water pump. Unfortunately these can also be signs of a bad cylinder head gasket, so further investigation will be required. Any of these symptoms should be taken seriously and further investigation as to the source of the problem. If a bad water pump is diagnosed, it should be replaced immediately. Don’t risk ruining an engine by putting off a repair that is relatively minor. Check out all the heating & cooling systems parts available on NAPAOnline or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA AutoCare locations for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information on how to know tell if your water pump is bad, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local NAPA Auto Parts store. The post Bad Water Pump Symptoms appeared first on NAPA Know How Blog. View the full article

In a dramatic final round to close out the 2022 season, defending NHRA Funny Car world champion Ron Capps clinched his third series title, and the first for Ron Capps Motorsports, on Sunday at the NHRA Finals at Auto Club Raceway at Pomona. Capps drove the NAPA AUTO PARTS Toyota GR Supra to a runner-up finish to win his second consecutive championship crown, becoming the first Funny Car driver to win back-to-back championships in 20 years. Starting the weekend ranked second in the point standings behind Robert Hight, Capps overcame a 61-point deficit to lock up the 2022 NHRA Camping World Series Funny Car title. The Southern California native qualified No. 1 with a 3.837-second blast at 337.33 mph, collecting six bonus points along the way in qualifying. Those bonus points moved Capps to just under two rounds behind Hight going into eliminations. Capps defeated Jeff Arend and Tim Wilkerson in the first two rounds of eliminations. When Hight lost to Bob Tasca III in the second round, the door was open for Capps to take the title. Capps then won his semifinal match with Tasca, passing Hight for the points lead. Capps secured the championship when he made a clean pass in the final, losing with a 3.85-second pass at 333.16 mph to Cruz Pedregon’s 3.839-second effort. Capps started the 2022 season as a team owner, forming Ron Capps Motorsports after winning the 2021 championship with longtime team owner Don Schumacher and Don Schumacher Racing. Even with the added challenges that come with the owner/operator role, Capps was able to come out on top yet again. “Anything you put your mind to you can do with great people around you,” said Capps, who’s just the seventh Funny Car driver to win as many as three titles. “I can’t even begin to say what it feels like right now. This is for the NAPA AutoCare people, all the NAPA AutoCare owners – 6,000 strong – and for everybody at home that puts on a Ron Capps and NAPA jersey watching on the couch on Fox Sports; Gearwrench; and of course, Toyota coming on board. But my family more than anything, we have taken on a role this year that’s been unbelievable. I’m sure you’ve seen me age quite a bit in the last year or so.” Capps and the NAPA team wasted no time putting together an impressive championship defense campaign as they made a run for the 2022 title. Continuing under the tuning guidance of crew chiefs Dean ‘Guido’ Antonelli and John Medlen, the newly formed Ron Capps Motorsports launched with a statement-making debut when they raced to a runner-up finish from the pole position at the 2022 season-opening NHRA Winternationals in February. While they came up just short of capturing the victory, Capps and his NAPA team didn’t have to wait long before finding the winner’s circle. At the fourth race of the season, the NHRA Four-Wide Nationals in Las Vegas, Capps went wire-to-wire, driving his machine to victory from the top of the Funny Car ladder to score his 69th professional triumph and win No. 1 for Ron Capps Motorsports. Later that month, Capps was thrilled to announce a partnership with Toyota, becoming the manufacturer’s third Funny Car driver. Capps took ownership of the brand-new Toyota GR Supra Funny Car body at the Charlotte race, and had the distinct honor of becoming Toyota’s first driver to power the new body style to victory when he picked up his second win of the season in Bristol, Tenn. before piloting the Supra to its first No. 1 qualifier spot in Norwalk, Ohio a few weeks later. Among Capps’ other season highlights were his big win at the Indianapolis race where he ran the table, notching the No. 1 qualifier honors and winning the Pep Boys All-Star Call Out specialty race before powering his NAPA Supra to victory to win his first U.S. Nationals trophy in more than 25 attempts. Capps then went on to score a pair of Countdown victories in Charlotte and Ennis, Texas, which helped to place him solidly into the championship hunt heading into the final two races of the season, and set up an epic three-way battle between Capps, Hight, and fellow championship hopeful Matt Hagan. For their efforts, Capps and the NAPA team never dropped below third on the Funny Car leaderboard throughout the entirety of the season. While Capps assumed the points lead after his semifinal victory at the Finals, he wasn’t immediately declared the champion. The points lead over Hight was so slim that a points deduction in the final round, caused by crossing the centerline or a similar infraction, would jeopardize the championship. Still, Capps gave it his all in the final round, making his quickest pass of eliminations in the runner-up effort. “I’m sure there were some upset people on the starting line – everybody thought I was going to shut off,” Capps said. “And I had planned on it if I didn’t see Cruz. I hugged the wall all the way down. I hope everybody appreciates that I ran it through the finish line because that was a hard decision to make. It was for the fans. I did the longest burnout I’ve done in a long time – for the fans. I can say honestly we didn’t go out there and shut it off.” While the NAPA team’s season-long battle for the crown culminated in the ultimate prize on Sunday, the day had a slight bittersweet feel to it, as it marked the end of co-crew chief John Medlen’s time on the NHRA tour as a full-time crew chief. “To send Medlen off and to send one of these (Wallys) to his cabin in Georgia, it’s going to be phenomenal,” Capps said. “He means so much to us.” Capps and team will continue under the leadership of Antonelli, who Capps knew for many years before the two started working together at the start of the 2021 season. “We both grew up crew guys – I met him as a crew guy at John Force’s,” Capps said. “We feel like two kids playing marbles in the field. It’s phenomenal that we can go have fun and do this.” Following their Sunday afternoon championship celebration, Capps and the NAPA team will be honored on Monday evening at the NHRA Awards Ceremony in Temecula, Calif. Start / Finish: Qualified No. 1 / Defeated by Cruz Pedregon in the finals Points Earned: 151 2022 NHRA Camping World Series Points Standing / Total: No. 1 / 2,682 pts. NAPA Racing:@NAPARacing Ron Capps: @RonCapps28 Ron Capps Motorsports: @TeamRonCapps The post Capps Clinches Third NHRA Funny Car Championship, First for Ron Capps Motorsports appeared first on NAPA Know How Blog. View the full article

Get the Best of Both Worlds Are you looking for the perfect vehicle accessory for that new driver in your life? Spread some holiday cheer by shopping the best vehicle add-ons for those who aren’t quite sure what they need! We’ll walk you through the best tips and gift ideas for car accessories as you shop NAPA’s selection of 160,000+ online parts with Free One-Day Shipping. With an extensive line of accessories that can seriously enhance driving conditions, you can easily improve cabin comfort, upgrade navigation assistance and make that ride your own with personalized flair. Those who are avid vehicle modifiers probably already know what they need to round out their ride, but when it comes to first-time drivers, it’s nice to give them a nudge in the right direction. While safety always is the priority when it comes to driving success, there’s a ton of room to boost levels of comfort, functionality and preparedness while truly elevating a beginning driver’s experience on the road. The Power of Personalization To many, vehicles start out as a semi-blank canvas ready for customization with performance enhancers, accent pieces, electronic capability, comfort upgrades, interior protection and so much more. Gone are the days when your vehicle was simply a transportation vessel and not an extension of the driver’s personality. Now, more than ever, automotive enthusiasts and average car owners alike are flocking to the automotive accessories market to help them create their ideal vehicle beyond the manufacturer’s confines. But when you think of ‘vehicle customization,’ you might envision outdated steering wheel covers, hanging ornaments (like those fuzzy dice) or classic bumper stickers. There’s nothing inherently wrong with these add-ons, but they only scratch the surface of the vehicle accessorizing world. Nowadays, you can easily shop for and install custom-fitted interior upholstery, Bluetooth capability, bike racks and LED add-ons that transform a commuter ride into an off-road, road tripping, beach cruiser machine. If you’re looking for practical and unbeatable upgrades, there’s no better way to level up your ride than with branded floor liners or seat covers. Gifting a set of quality interior seat covers or floor mats are an excellent and sensible gift that’ll most definitely get used, especially by those who want to keep the investment of their ride intact. Modern Upgrades for the Beginner Car Now, more than ever, people are demanding that their vehicles keep up with their lifestyles, which means they’re not willing to compromise when a higher standard of luxury and personalization exists! However, more likely than not, someone’s first car is not a high-end vehicle decked out in the latest electronics. They might sport an older model with an analog radio and cigarette lighters—a hand-me-down ride that’s still kicking but could use a little TLC to make it feel ‘new’ again. That gives you the perfect opportunity to gift some car accessories that bring modern touches to an old reliable machine. While most newer vehicles come equipped with Bluetooth radio capability, some drivers still don’t know the beauty of an upgraded stereo system with clean, rich sound quality and wireless connection. If you’re shopping for someone who would appreciate a fine-tuned radio for jam-sessions or crisp voice calls, shop NAPA’s selection of vehicle audio products and pick up something like the Single DIN Mechless Bluetooth Stereo for an affordable audio upgrade. For more tips on tech upgrades for older vehicles, check out NAPA’s article on “DIY Tech Upgrades for Analog Vehicles That Improve Your Drive Time.” Safety Enhancers That Offer Function and Flair Consider a classic cell phone charger or cell phone mount for a more budget-friendly console gift. Because many drivers use smartphones as a tool for navigation, these products are vital for a hands-free driving experience. LED lighting is another great dashboard improvement to illuminate your instrument cluster and make it easy to see at night, plus it just looks cool! There are tons of LED add-on options for tailgate lighting, lightbar options, headlights, off-road lighting and more. Lighting upgrades boost safety and style, thus it is a great gift choice for new drivers who can use all the visibility they can get! Whether you’re a new driver or not, it’s always important to stay well-stocked with emergency preparedness supplies. These are not the flashiest type of accessories, but they are incredibly useful and easily hold the power to avoid an inconvenient or dangerous situation. A can of Fix A Flat, flashlight and some jumper cables are just a few essentials that you should include in your roadside emergency kit. You can’t go wrong with an assortment of affordable, stylish and functional aftermarket accessories that are sure to excite anyone about customizing their ride. There’s no better way to feel like your vehicle is all your own! Remember to shop NAPAOnline.com for some automotive holiday cheer and receive one NAPA Rewards point for every dollar you spend. Photo courtesy of Pexels. The post The Ultimate Vehicle Accessory Gift Guide for New Drivers appeared first on NAPA Know How Blog. View the full article

Spreading Carlyle Cheer: A Holiday Tool Gift Guide It’s that time of the year where you’re thinking about how to spread some holiday cheer—and it can cause a bit of stress! The NAPA Network is here to pare down the endless online tool aisles and give you top-notch recommendations for quality tool gift ideas that your special someone will actually use. Whether you’re trying to surprise a car enthusiast, encourage someone with DIY talent or treat yourself to a much-needed replacement or upgrade, Carlyle Tools is the way to go. Precisely engineered, stylish and affordable, Carlyle Tools delivers robust options for all shoppers, whether they’re just beginning a tool collection or expanding their at-home mechanic shop. With many tool brands on the market, why choose Carlyle Tools? As NAPA’s premium tool line, these automotive tools are proven as industry-grade and value-driven. They offer an exceptional level of quality with input from professional technicians who know what works and what doesn’t. Carlyle’s handheld tools are manufactured to deliver long-lasting performance in the harshest conditions. To solidify the brand’s commitment to quality, the entire assortment from Carlyle Tools comes with a Lifetime Warranty on which you can depend. Stocking Your Socket Sets Ditch the lists that focus on flash rather than function and invest in products that won’t sit in a box or end up in a landfill. When it comes to holiday shopping guides, functionality and high-quality craftsmanship should reside at the forefront of your mind. With a selection of tools that are handsomely styled, pack a punch and won’t break the bank, anything from Carlyle makes a wonderful holiday gift for car enthusiasts. Even if you’re not shopping for a classic car fanatic, every homeowner, DIY enthusiast and self-sufficient adult should have a basic collection of handheld tools for day-to-day jobs and household projects that just need a little elbow grease. Lucky for you, the Carlyle brand is well-known for its line of handheld tools and carries a wide selection of wrenches, ratchets, screwdrivers and pliers. Whether you’re looking for individual items or organized, adaptable sets, these types of tools are great options to ‘sneak into someone’s stocking.’ These popular products are affordable, handy and extremely versatile with multiple applications. For someone just starting out their tool collection, gifting a Screwdriver Set Combination or a 12-Piece Flexible Ratcheting Wrench Set may serve as a catalyst to future tool exploration. Not only are you providing someone a quality toolkit, but you’re also giving the gift of independence, inspiration and a nudge into DIY territory. Under the Tree For someone looking to add onto their existing collection, the Carlyle Tool line is a step in the right direction. Know someone who’s always tackling their DIY projects late at night or someone who’s always asking you to hold their flashlight? Gift them a Carlyle headlamp with wireless charging capability or a rechargeable 500 lumen work light with hanging hook and magnetic base! Maybe your car lover already has quite the tool assortment, but they could use a better system to consolidate and arrange these expensive items. While Carlyle does carry garage staples like heavy-duty, aluminum tool chests, these are often bigger investment pieces that are possibly beyond your budget. However, compact storage solutions like the Carlyle Parts Tray or Backpack Tool Bag are perfect options for those casual mechanics looking to keep their tools organized and accessible. The Backpack Tool Bag is especially ideal for road trips, house calls or track days. The waterproof hard bottom base adds structure and protection to your bag, while the cushioned adjustable strap makes it easy to throw it over your shoulder and hit the road. There’s no need to dig through the pack for all your tools; you can easily remove the incorporated 48-pocket organizer for better access. Shopping for Gearheads It may seem like that gearhead in your life has it all, but that’s far from true! Many tool collectors and car lovers focus on practicality and forget comfort. That’s where mobile garage equipment like creepers and stools can come in handy. These garage essentials may seem like luxury items to DIYers who have no problem getting down and dirty. But these surprise gifts can make certain automotive projects, like under-car maintenance, much safer and more enjoyable. On no matter which gift you land, your lucky recipient will get years of quality craftsmanship from this tool line. Shopping Carlyle Tools is the best way to show your interest and understanding in a car enthusiast’s dreams or someone’s DIY passion all while getting the most bang for your buck. So, spread that holiday cheer by visiting NAPAOnline.com to find hot deals on Carlyle Tools and get one NAPA Rewards Point for every $1 you spend. The post Spreading Carlyle Cheer: A Holiday Tool Gift Guide appeared first on NAPA Know How Blog. View the full article