Illustrated Guide for Car Buyers and Owners

For Car Owners

Guides for Car Owners

Check out our car maintenance checklist with photos, learn how to troubleshoot why a car won't start. Read what can cause your Check Engine light to come on and what some of the trouble codes mean. Check out our illustrated auto glossary.

Why your Check Engine light comes on
Repair options, common problems, Check Engine light diagnostic codes
Easy car maintenance checklist
How to check your oil, air filter, tire pressure , battery and top up fluids
Why a car won't start
Troubleshooting tips, how to check the battery, what can cause a car not to start
Starting system, Starter motor
Learn how the starter motor and the vehicle starting system works
Serpentine belt: problems, when to replace, noises
When does you serpentine belt need replacing?
Car dictionary: automotive parts explained
How different car parts and components work.
How to maintain your engine
Is there a warning light for low oil? Do oil additives really help?
How to prepare your car for a long trip
Checklist before a long trip, basic emergency kit for your car.
How to clean the interior
How to clean the carpet, seats and how to get rid of musty smell

For Used Car Buyers

Guides for used car buyers

By opting for a pre-owned vehicle can save you a lot of money, but there are many things you should know when it comes to buying a used car. Read a few tips what you should know. See how to inspect a used car and spot signs of potential problems.

What you should know when buying a used car
What mileage is too high, cars to avoid
Is it OK to buy a used car that was a rental?
Ex-rental cars are cheaper, but there is a lot to watch out for.
What mileage is OK for a used car?
Should used car buyers look only for low-mileage cars?
Should you buy or avoid a turbocharged car?
Turbo cars offer more power, but what are the cons?
How to inspect a used car
Guide with photos of what to look for when checking a used car
How to spot engine problems
You don't need to be a mechanic to spot some of the potential problems
How to inspect a car body
Learn how to spot signs of previous accidents, rust repair or bad paint job.
Best 4-cylinder SUVs
An SUV doesn't have to be a gas guzzler. Check out our list

More guides »

Used Car Reviews

Looking for a used car?

Our used car reviews include pros and cons, ratings, specs, gas mileage, common problems and tips on what to look for and what to avoid

NEW: Mazda 6 2014-2017
Fuel efficient and sporty Mazda 6 is a front-wheel drive family sedan
NEW: Volkswagen GTI 2010-2014
This European hot hatch is a blast to drive!
NEW: Acura TL 2004-2008
With the strong V6 and upscale interior, Acura TL is one of the best sporty sedans on the market
NEW: Chevrolet Sonic 2012-2016
Built in the US Sonic boasts top safety ratings and agile handling
Dodge Dart 2013-2016
The Dart is wider and heavier than other compacts. Safety ratings are among the best.
Honda Accord 2008-2012
Honda Accord is one of the best family sedans on the market.

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Mitsubishi Lancer 2008-2013
The sharp-looking Lancer stands out among the compacts
Hyundai Elantra sedan 2011-2015
The stylish Elantra is a strong competitor among compact cars
Nissan Altima 2007-2012
Popular family car with bold styling, sporty handling and firm ride
Toyota Camry 2012-2014
The best-selling family sedan offers unbeatable reliability and comfort
BMW 3-series 2006-2011
The Ultimate Driving Machine: lineup, engines, common problems

More reviews »

SUV and Minivan Reviews

Reviews of popular SUVs

Crossover SUVs are booming, which means used car buyers have plenty choices. Some are good on gas and reliable, others are better to avoid.

NEW: Jeep Cherokee 2014-2017
The Cherokee offers an optional unique 4WD system with low range.
NEW: Nissan Rogue 2014-2017
The Rogue is one of the top contenders among compact SUVs.
NEW: Chevy Equinox 2010-2017
Classified as a compact SUV, the Equinox is closer to a mid-size.
NEW: Jeep Patriot 2007-2017
It's a Jeep thing. The Patriot is one of the most affordable compact SUVs
NEW: Honda Odyssey 2005-2010
Honda best-selling minivan seats 7 or 8 depending on the model.
Nissan Pathfinder 2013-2017
Nissan Pathfinder is a roomy, comfortable 7-passenger crossover SUV.
Toyota Sienna 2004-2010
The Sienna has a smooth, soft ride and a comfy spacious interior.
Volkswagen Tiguan 2009-2017
"Tiguan" means half tiger half iguana. Volkswagen compact SUV explained.
Nissan Murano 2003-2007
Stylish 'Urban SUV' with sporty handling
Ford Escape 2008-2012
The Escape is one of the few small SUVs that still looks like a truck
Toyota RAV4 2006-2012
Toyota compact SUV offers a practical interior, decent cargo space and agile handling.
Honda CR-V 2007-2011
The name CR-V stands for Comfortable Runabout Vehicle, which describes this car perfectly.
Mazda CX-5 2013-2016
The CX-5 offers unmatched fuel economy, sporty handling and practical interior
Subaru Outback 2010-2014
Pick a spot on the map and go! The Outback is perfect for biking, kayaking or camping
Nissan Rogue 2008-2013
The Rogue comes with a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine and a continuously variable transmission (CVT)