Auto Parts

Car wax can help protect your car's paint from tree sap, bird droppings, and other contaminants. And with older cars, a good wax can make a dramatic improvement in the appearance. We have found that many moderately priced brands perform just as well as expensive ones, but even the best wax we've tested doesn't protect for more than a few months.

Car batteries are unsung transportation heroes. These heavy, black boxes rest quietly under the hood, ready to provide the essential electrical charge needed to fire up an engine and begin driving. Without a healthy battery, your car is just a large, metal sculpture parked in the driveway.

Headlights with an aged, cloudy, or hazy look are becoming increasingly common, as the average age of all cars on the road continues to rise. Plus, most modern vehicles use replaceable bulbs with plastic lenses that are more prone to discoloration, rather than the more-durable glass sealed-beam units. Fortunately, our tests show that for a modest cost, even junkyard-ready lens covers can be made clear again.

The key to maintaining tire pressure, and safe tire operation, is a simple once-a-month check with an accurate tire pressure gauge. However, there are many gauges to choose from. Through our testing and experience, we provide buying advice on how to choose the best tire pressure gauge for your needs.

Tires are one of the most important items on your car and need to be replaced a number of times during the lifetime of your vehicle. They all might look similar in the store, but tires perform quite differently in our tests. Use this tire buying guide to choose the right tire for your budget and needs.