Tire Safety Checklist: What to Do Before Your Next Road Trip

Phone charger: In addition to bringing a charging cord and power adapter, carry a small battery-based charger in case your car’s battery dies. Basic tools: Carry standard and Phillips screwdrivers, pliers, and a compact socket set. Add a small replacement fuse kit for electrical emergencies. Tire tools: Pack an easier-to-use lug or torque wrench, as…

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Should You Warm Up Your Car Before Driving?

An engine is fully lubricated long before it reaches full operating temperature. When your car sits for an extended period of time, the oil drains down to the bottom of the oil pan. Once you start the engine, the oil pump quickly circulates the oil throughout the motor, lubricating all the necessary moving engine components….

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Best Budget Mattresses of 2025

Consumer Reports evaluates lower-priced mattresses the same way we test any mattress: by putting them through our exhaustive lab tests, as well as asking thousands of CR members about how well their mattresses have served them. Put together, this information provides a good sense of what a mattress offers for a variety of body sizes…

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Best Clear Bags to Take to Games and Concerts

These bags allow stadium security (and everyone else) to see what’s in your bag, thus ensuring greater safety for everyone. And fair warning: If you wait until the last minute, you could get stuck with a not-so-great option depending on where you buy it (more on this later). We evaluated seven stadium bags, looking at…

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Talking Carts 3: Buy Now, Pay Greater

Main theme: At the cash register this holiday season, you have more options than ever to pay—cash, credit, or a “buy now, pay later” loan. But be warned: Your choice could end up costing you more in the long run. In this episode of the “Talking Carts” podcast, hosts Tanya Christian (senior home and appliances…

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