Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Jim Gorzelany is a veteran automotive journalist. With both new-car prices and fuel costs on the rise, today’s motorists are ...

Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Jim Gorzelany is a veteran automotive journalist. You’ll usually know when it’s time to take your car, truck or sport-utility ...

Whether it’s traveling to work, getting your kids to school or heading to an important appointment, your car is a necessity — not a luxury. So it’s scary to see your check engine light come on or hear ...

The costs of buying a new or used car have climbed in recent years, and so has the average repair bill. If a vehicle purchase or major repair isn’t in the cards (or budget), maintaining the health of ...

It may cost you more in the long run. You’re driving along and suddenly your check engine light goes on. But nothing seems to have changed with the way your car is running. It’s OK to let it go for a ...

Ignoring a check engine light might feel harmless if the car still runs smoothly, but the warning signals more than a minor inconvenience. Driving with that light on can lead to higher repair costs, ...

For most drivers, an oil change is a quick, hassle-free service that typically puts you out no longer than an hour and costs you (give or take) a hundred bucks. But even if you're perfectly on top of ...