Most and Least Reliable Dishwasher Brands

No brand is completely immune to problems, and a brand’s quality can fluctuate over time due to changes in design or production. But our survey reveals that dishwashers from certain brands are significantly less likely than others to experience problems during their first five years. Using our reliability ratings, you can increase your chances of…

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Most Fuel-Efficient Hybrid Cars, Minivans, and SUVs

We evaluate fuel economy under standardized conditions, using a specific procedure on our test track to calculate stop-and-go city-driving numbers and a 5-mile stretch of a nearby high-speed road for highway mileage. (Learn more about how Consumer Reports tests cars.) Below, you’ll find the recommended vehicles that get the best fuel economy overall: Each gets…

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Is It Safe to Use a Space Heater in the Bathroom?

For additional protection, look for a space heater equipped with an appliance leakage current interrupter (ALCI) plug, says Samantha Ostrander, who oversees CR’s space heater tests. These bulky plugs—similar to those seen on hair dryers—safeguard against differences in current and can also protect against a dangerous electrical shock. Like GFCI outlets, ALCI plugs typically feature…

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How to Buy a Used Car Now

Safety EquipmentIn recent years, a growing number of new cars have included advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) technology as optional, if not standard, equipment. That means used cars are more readily available with features ranging from automatic emergency braking (AEB) to adaptive cruise control (ACC). Among those features, Consumer Reports highly recommends AEB with pedestrian…

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Building a Better World, Together

Every day, the average adult in the U.S. uses 12 personal care products—such as moisturizers, sunscreens, and cosmetics—containing 112 unique ingredients, some of which are linked to cancer, reproductive harm, and other health risks. Under current law, companies that make these products can use almost any ingredient without premarket testing or review. In fact, the…

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Wi-Fi Router Vs Mesh System: Which Is Best for You?

We all want a good, strong Wi-Fi signal throughout our homes, but figuring out how to achieve it without overspending can be tricky. Even once you’ve decided to replace the router from your internet service provider, do you get a new Wi-Fi router or invest in a mesh system? I covered this briefly in my…

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