Top 10 Best-Selling Cars Of All Time

Since its invention in 1885, the car has taken the world by storm. Few other inventions have had such an impact on the world as the automobile. Over the years, hundreds of car brands have emerged, producing millions of cars sold all around the globe. But which cars exactly are the most sold ones to date? The following ranking of the all-time best selling cars will show you just that.

1. Toyota Corolla

~ 43 million cars sold

Original production country: Japan
Production years: 1966 – present

 

The Corolla line by Japanese car maker giant Toyota is the best selling car in history. It was first introduced in November 1966. The earliest two E10 and E20 generations were already quite successful, but the Corolla line has only increased in worldwide popularity ever since. The Corolla is still being produced and is currently in its 12th generation.

2. Ford F-Series

~ 40 million cars sold

Original production country: USA
Production years: 1948 – present

 

Ford’s pickup truck series is the world’s second most sold car line in history. While the F-Series was mostly successful in the United States, it did also sell quite well in Latin America as well as many parts of Africa. Today, the F-Series is in its 13th generation.

3. Volkswagen Golf

~ 31 million cars sold

Original production country: Germany
Production years: 1974 – present

 

Volkswagen’s Golf line represents the most popular small family car in world history. Known as Volkswagen Rabbit in the United States, the car derived from the Beetle, but managed to become even more popular on streets around the world. While the popularity of the Golf has somewhat cooled off in recent years, it is still being produced and sold all around the globe. The car is currently in its 7th generation.

4. Volkswagen Beetle

~ 24 million cars sold

Original production country: Germany
Production years: 1938 – 2003

 

The original production of the Volkswagen Beetle aka Volkswagen Type 1 is in hindsight somewhat controversial as the market release of car was heavily centered around Nazi propaganda of 1930s Germany. The Beetle was also widely produced and used for and by the Nazis on their attempted conquest of Europe. However, after World War II, the car managed to reshape its image and became one of the most known, loved and best selling cars in the world. Walt Disney even dedicated an entire movie series to the car. Unfortunately, due to decreasing sales, Volkswagen decided to end the production in 2003.

5. Lada Riva

~ 19 million cars sold

Original production country: Soviet Union / Russia
Production years: 1980 – 2012

 

If you didn’t grow up in a Communist country, chances are you have never heard of this car or known anyone who ever drove a Lada Riva. But all over the Soviet Union Ladas were the by far most popular cars to have. Sales in the Capitalist West were far less common, but did occur. Even after the collapse of communism and the Soviet Union, the car managed to stay popular in Russia and other post-Soviet countries. Production of the car went on up until 2012.

6. Honda Civic

~ 18.5 million cars sold

Original production country: Japan
Production years: 1972 – present

7. Ford Escort

~ 18 million cars sold

Original production country: USA
Production years: 1968 – 2004

8. Honda Accord

~ 17.5 million cars sold

Original production country: Japan
Production years: 1976 – present

9. Ford Model T

~ 16.5 million cars sold

Original production country: USA
Production years: 1908 – 1927

10. Volkswagen Passat

~ 15.5 million cars sold

Original production country: Germany
Production years: 1973 – present

Source: alltopeverything

CARS

How to Clean Headlights

Headlights are an important safety feature on your car, whether you’re driving at night or in inclement weather. Unfortunately, headlights can become foggy and dirty, which dulls their brightness and makes them less effective at lighting the road. Plastic headlights can become foggy as a result of UV ray exposure and damage from the elements.

If your lights don’t appear as bright as usual, try one of these methods to clean them. There are several ways to restore clarity to your headlight lenses.

Use liquid soap, baking soda and vinegar

With liquid soap, baking soda and vinegar, you can restore your headlights in a few simple steps. Keep in mind that this method may not fully brighten very yellowed, foggy lights, and you may need to repeat the steps several times.

Begin by cleaning dust from the headlights with a microfiber cloth. Add a tablespoon or two of liquid soap to a bucket. Add enough water to thin the soap to a watery solution. Using another clean microfiber cloth, clean the headlight with the soap solution. The idea is to get the lens as clean as possible before using the baking soda and vinegar. Rinse the soap off the headlights using a spray bottle of water and use a towel to dry the headlights.

Mix 1 to 2 tablespoons of baking soda with enough white vinegar to form a thick paste. Using a dry-cleaning cloth, gently polish the headlamp with the paste. Rinse the paste off with the spray bottle of water and repeat until the lens is clean and clear.

How to clean car headlights with toothpaste

Before beginning, remove dust and grime from the headlight with a clean cloth. Then, spray the headlight with water using your spray bottle. Using an old toothbrush, apply toothpaste to the lens and gently scrub. Use regular white toothpaste, not the gel type. Rinse with water until toothpaste is gone and the headlight is clear.

How to clean foggy headlights using a headlight restoration kit

These kits can be expensive, but they’re effective and safe for restoring headlights. Use them as directed; typically, you’ll just need to apply the cleanser and rinse. A kit may also come with waxing compounds to protect the lights.With any method, use soft cleaning cloths made of microfiber. These are gentle and can help to prevent scratching. They also typically don’t leave stray fibers behind. Learn how to restore your headlights.

CARS

How to Save Money on Gas

Your car payments and auto insurance payments may stay the same each month but gas prices can fluctuate wildly during the same period. Gas prices differ by state, by city, by season and by gas station, just to name a few variables, but consumers who shop wisely can trim their monthly car expenses.
 
These easy tips can help you find the best gas prices and save money:
Figure out what you’re currently spending on gas
The first step to finding cheap gas is to track what you’re currently paying to create a baseline. For example, if you traditionally get gas at the same station because it’s convenient, your habit may be costing you extra money.
 
Start looking at gas prices when you drive by different stations so you can see the variations. Notice whether the prices change on weekends versus weekdays, and which brands have higher costs than others.
 
Download a gas app
Many people like to use gas apps on their phones, especially when on vacation in unfamiliar areas. The apps may let you plug in your zip code, or it can automatically find your location using GPS tracking. These apps show gas stations nearby and their prices, as entered by other app users. Some will also show the average gas prices for the state or city. To find the best gas app, check your phone’s app store and look at reviews.
 
Try different gas stations
Gas stations often charge more if they’re in a prime location, like close to a freeway exit or at a major intersection. People will pay more for that convenience, especially if they don’t know the area. If you can wait, it’s easier to find cheap gas farther away from a main drag.
 
Only get premium gas if your car needs it
You may think getting premium gas will improve engine performance, but that’s not necessarily the case for all cars. In fact, some higher performance cars actually do just fine with regular gas. Learn more about whether premium gas is right for your car, so you aren’t wasting money with no return.
 
Pay with cash
Some stations offer a discount for cash versus paying with a credit card. Over time, this can add up. It can be worthwhile to keep extra cash on hand for gas purchases to pay the best gas prices.
 
Use a card with rewards for gas purchases
Some gas stations offer loyalty credit cards, giving you a discount on gas prices when using that card. If you tend to shop for gas at the same station frequently, it might be worthwhile to use a loyalty card. Consider if you have to pay a yearly fee for the card and the interest rate if you don’t pay your credit card off in full each month. Some credit cards also offer percentage discounts on gas regardless of the station you’re stopping at.
 
Don’t waste gas
Leaving an engine running while you’re parked is high on the list of unnecessary gas-guzzling habits. It doesn’t matter if you’re doing so “only for a couple minutes while a friend runs into the store.” You’re still wasting fuel – and more of it than you may think.
 
Properly inflate your tires
Proper tire inflation translates to money in the bank – accounting for as much as a 3% improvement in mileage performance, according to the Department of Energy. With more pressure in your tires, the easier it will be to drive, which will result in less friction.
 
Invest in a fuel-efficient vehicle
The US Department of Energy estimates that the difference in annual gas expenses between a car that gets 20 miles per gallon and one that gets 30 miles per gallon is $795.2 Cars that are more fuel efficient simply don’t need to hit the pump as frequently, meaning that you won’t be reaching for your wallet as often.
 
Don’t put the pedal to the metal
If you’re an aggressive driver, you risk getting hit with stiff fines and insurance premiums. But did you know that you’re also wasting gas? Sudden, rapid acceleration and braking can lower highway gas mileage by 15-30% at highway speeds and 10-40% in stop-and-go traffic, according to the US Department of Energy.
 
Shopping smartly for gas can help you spend less on your car. Finding the right auto insurance policy can also save you money – especially if you qualify for a car insurance discount.
CARS

Things to Do When Your Car Is Stuck in Snow

Getting stuck in the middle of a big pile of snow or on a stretch of ice can be an all-too-common occurrence during the cold winter months. Luckily, we have a few tips and tricks that can get your car free in no time, even if you don’t have one of the best vehicles for winter driving. Follow these six tips below to get a car unstuck in snow:
1. Clear a path around your tires
Try to dig snow and ice away from the drive tires. You want to free up a few feet in front of and behind the tires so you can move the car back and forth. This is particularly important if your tires aren’t winterized, or if you haven’t taken steps to prepare your vehicle for the winter. Be sure to also dig out any snow under the front or middle of your car that is higher than its ground clearance.
 
Of course a snow shovel makes this much easier, so try and store one in your trunk if you plan on driving in snowy conditions.
 
2. Rock your car free of the snow
Carefully switching from drive to reverse can help dislodge some of the snow around your wheels. “You go into drive, then reverse, then repeat,” says Mark Osborne, who oversees Michigan Technological University’s Winter Driving School. “But you have to be careful not to wreck your transmission. I put my foot on the brake at the peak of each ‘rock,’ so the car is motionless when I change gears. It’s also helpful to shift to neutral for a second before making the transition.”
 
3. Don’t floor the gas
You’ll always be tempted to floor it if you’re stuck in snow or ice, but don’t. Go easy on the pedal to give the vehicle just a little gas for a moment, then let off. Repeat to enhance the needed “rocking” motion. It’s momentum that sets you free, not power.
 
4. Add traction under your tires
If you still can’t get your car free, you can next try and gain traction under your wheels. Things such as sandbags, salt, dirt or even kitty litter can be used when your car is stuck in snow. Throw several handfuls under your tires for improved traction, then try the gas again.
 
It is also important to remember to turn off traction control if you are stuck in snow. This is one of several safety features that can help you keep control of your vehicle if you hit ice on the road, but leaving it on while stuck in snow is a different story. Traction control prevents wheelspin, which is the rotation of a vehicle’s wheels without traction, and can sometimes help you get your car out of snow.
 
5. Get others to help push your car
If you have other people in your car, or friendly onlookers who can help, simply pushing your car out of the snow can be an easy solution. Gently press the gas while the car is being pushed to add additional momentum. Safety always comes first, so make sure you’re in forward gear and the ground isn’t too slippery for helpers to push. Using snow chains can also help create traction under your tires, making it easier to move through snow and ice.
 
6. Ask for help
If all else fails and you can’t seem to figure out how to get your car unstuck from snow, calling for help is your next best bet. Nationwide offers 24-hour roadside assistance services that can help you in getting a car out of snow, jump starting a dead battery, filling an empty gas tank, and more.
 
Always keep a cool head
Whether you’re stuck in snow or hit a stretch of ice, try and remain calm. Don’t do anything abrupt, like slamming the brakes. “If you do that, you’ll transfer your vehicle’s weight to your front wheels,” Osborne says. “That lightens up the rear, making it likely that your rear end will spin.” Instead, Osborne says, gradually let off the gas and hold the steering steady until you’ve cleared the ice.
CARS

5 Signs of Hybrid Battery Failure

It feels good to own a hybrid vehicle. You’re saving money on gas and leaving less of a carbon footprint. But like any vehicle, hybrids need proper care—in fact, even more care—to keep running efficiently. Hybrid batteries are built to last the life of the vehicle. However, they are still prone to malfunctions and failures just like any automotive component.

Here are some of the most common signs that your hybrid vehicle battery isn’t working right:

1. A Drop in MPG
Numerous issues can affect your vehicle’s fuel economy, but a weak hybrid battery will certainly affect your miles per gallon (MPG). If you notice a steady drop in your MPG, it could be the battery.

2. State of Charge Fluctuations
If your state of charge (SOC) is fluctuating wildly, it’s either a battery issue or a problem within the charging system.

3. Increased Use of Internal Combustion Engine
If you notice that your Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) is running more than usual, there could be a problem with your hybrid battery.

4. Decreased Battery Charge
If your battery charge goes down when the vehicle is not in operation, then there is likely some sort of issue with the battery or charging system that you will want to have looked at by a professional mechanic who understands hybrid vehicles.

5. Strange Engine Noises
The more your internal combustion engine runs, the more likely it is to experience its own issues. You may hear strange noises or the car struggles to accelerate. This is an example of a failing hybrid battery leading to overuse and damage within the ICE.

CARS

17 Ways to Save Money on Car Maintenance

Maintaining a vehicle can be expensive. There’s gas, oil changes, scheduled maintenance, new tires, and brake pads, and even the odd check engine light to take care of now and then. If you’re running to the dealership or the most expensive shop in town for every task, you’re spending too much. But you’re also asking for trouble if you’re completely ignoring car maintenance, too.

Properly maintaining your vehicle doesn’t have to be expensive, and done responsibly, you’ll save money on maintenance and ongoing care for your car. You can save on parts, labor, efficiency, and more simply by being smart about how you maintain your vehicle.

We’ve shared 17 ways you can save money on car maintenance. They include changing your own oil, keeping your car clean, inflating your tires properly, and shopping around for a mechanic and good rates on maintenance. Read on to learn how you can be maintenance savvy with these tips and more.

– Take care of car maintenance regularly: Following recommended maintenance schedules, maintaining oil changes and tire rotations, and generally taking care of your car will extend its life and cut down on potential repair bills. Vehicles aren’t designed to be built once and then run forever. They need help, and if you neglect to take care of them, there will be problems. Gunked up oil, low transmission fluid, engine or brake failure, and bald tires are just a few of the expensive messes you can run into if you don’t pay attention to car maintenance. It’s better to spend a little now than a lot later.

– Read your owner’s manual: Yes, really: you have to read the instructions. Your car’s owner’s manual, particularly the section on scheduled maintenance, is a helpful resource for taking care of your car and keeping it in good shape according to manufacturer recommendations. They are the experts in your car: listen to them.

– Do as much as you can yourself: Many maintenance tasks are easy to take care of in your own driveway. Changing out spark plugs, oil, filters, and checking on fluids are all within the skill level of the average driver. By DIYing as much maintenance, as you can, you’ll be able to save on dealership or mechanic labor fees. You may even find parts and supplies for less. Plus, you’ll be able to take the time to check on other upcoming issues for your car, like fluid levels, squeaky noises, and aging hoses or belts.

-Use online tutorials: An essential tool in the car maintenance DIYer’s belt is Google. Get connected with online guides, even YouTube videos that can walk you step by step through common maintenance tasks. You may even be able to find tutorials and videos for your particular make, model, and year, so there will be no guessing how exactly you can access a part or properly measure a fluid. If you prefer to work on cars the old fashioned way, pick up a repair manual for every model of vehicle you own.

Order parts online: Plan your maintenance tasks ahead and get your parts online, where you may be able to find discounts. Often, online parts shopping offers free shipping and better prices than the dealership or auto parts store.

-Never ignore warning lights: Good maintenance means listening to your vehicle, especially when it’s complaining. Any time you see a warning light, pay attention and investigate the cause. It could be something as simple as a loose gas cap, but you’ll never know until you look. Cars equipped with digital odometers make it easy to get trouble codes. Read your manual to find out how to get codes from your particular model, but most can be activated by simply turning the ignition key to the on (not start) position on and off two to three times and then watching the readout while in the on position. You can then Google these codes to learn more about your vehicle’s issue.

-Use a vehicle maintenance app: Relying on dealerships may have you come in for service too early or too late, as dealerships won’t know your car’s exact mileage and when it’s time to perform certain maintenance tasks. With a gas and maintenance tracking app, you’ll enter in your exact mileage each time, allowing the app to tell you about upcoming maintenance tasks you need to take care of right on time.

-Change the oil only when necessary: In the not too distant past, vehicles needed new oil every 3,000 miles or three months without fail. But that’s not always the case with models today. You could be wasting money if you’re changing your oil more frequently than needed. Look at your manual to find out when it’s time to change your car’s oil. You may also be able to rely on digital oil change reminders built into your vehicle’s system.

-Check fluid levels and perform a safety check every time you change your oil: While you’re changing your oil, it’s a good idea to do a quick diagnostic check. Take a look at fluid levels including your brake fluid, antifreeze, power steering fluid, wiper fluid, and transmission fluid. This is also a good time to change out your air filter, check hoses and belts for signs of wear, and take a look at the life left on your brakes and tires.

-Be aware of fair maintenance rates: Charges for maintaining your vehicle, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and scheduled maintenance can vary widely depending on the shop you visit. Make sure you’re being charged fairly by researching rates before you make it to the mechanic. Websites including RepairPal can tell you what you should expect to pay for a particular maintenance or repair task — and can even connect you with certified shops.

– Shop around for a mechanic: A good mechanic is worth thousands — and that’s not an exaggeration. Finding a mechanic with fair prices and honest practices can really pay off, especially when it’s time to make repairs. Read reviews, ask friends and neighbors, and shop around until you’ve found the right mechanic to take care of your car.

-Keep your battery clean: Your battery is a more important part than you might think. And it becomes especially important if you find yourself stuck with a car that won’t start. It’s easy to keep your car’s battery clean. Use a small brush to apply baking soda and water to terminals to clean off corrosion.

-Shop around for tires: Most of the leading tire brands are available at a variety of shops for a variety of prices. You may be surprised to find that big box stores can have the best deals and service for tires. However, some specialty tire chains may have better policies, such as helpful warranties for damage, rotation, and balancing, so consider these as well.

-Keep your tires inflated: Under-inflated tires wear down more quickly and can negatively impact gas mileage. Pay attention to tire pressure sensors, or check manually with a tire pressure gauge. Most gas stations will turn on air pumps for free when you fill up.

-Don’t neglect your air filter: Your car’s air filter can help you save on fuel consumption, as a dirty filter clogged with dirt and debris can cut your fuel mileage significantly. This is an easy fix, as it is inexpensive and usually doesn’t require tools. You should change your air filter about once every three months.

-Keep your vehicle clean: A good wash and wax does more than make your car look great. It protects your paint and prevents residue that can damage your finish and even lead to rust. Regularly wash and wax your car, especially if you park it outside or take it on extended road trips.

-Touch up paint: Like washing and waxing, using touch up paint is a protective maintenance measure that makes your car look great. Using touch up paint, you can seal chips and cracks early on before they have a chance to really become a problem like rust or paint decay.

CARS

Top Tips to Take Care of Your Car If You Don’t Drive Often

From cutting out a commute to putting a car in storage for the season, there are plenty of reasons why you might not be driving your vehicle as often as you used to. But don’t let it sit collecting dust — follow these steps to maintain your car and keep it ready to hit the road:

Keep your car covered
If your home has a garage or a carport, consider parking your car inside to protect it from the elements and inclement weather. If your home doesn’t have a garage or carport and you have to park outside, consider buying a weatherproof and UV resistant car cover to protect your vehicle’s paint from accidental scrapes and protect its interior from UV damage.

Take your car for a spin twice a month.
On average, a car can sit unused for up to a month without the battery draining. To avoid finding a dead battery when it’s finally time to hit the road, take it for a 20- to 30-minute drive at least twice a month. This will also allow fluids and oil to circulate and keep your car’s critical systems lubricated.

Keep the gas tank full
While it may seem like a waste to buy gas for a car you aren’t driving regularly, you’ll be glad you filled your tank, as moisture can build up in an empty gas tank as the weather changes, which can lead to damage.

Follow the manufacturer’s recommended oil change schedule
If you’re planning on keeping your vehicle off the road for more than three months at a time, change the oil before putting it in long-term storage. If you’re still driving your vehicle occasionally but you aren’t driving it enough to hit the mileage interval for an oil change, check your owner’s manual to see how long you can wait before getting an oil change.

Check your tire pressure before driving
Your car’s tires can slowly lose pressure, especially if it sits for an extended period. Before driving your car again, check each tire’s air pressure and — if it’s lower than the manufacturer’s recommended air pressure level, which is measured in pounds per square inch — inflate each tire to the correct level.

Regularly check for pests
A sitting vehicle is the perfect home for pests like rodents and insects. To prevent these unwanted tenants from moving into your vehicle, regularly inspect inside your car’s trunk and cabin for unwanted visitors. While inspecting your vehicle, also be sure to check under the hood, as wasps and bees can squeeze in and start building a hive.

Keep your car insured
Cancelling your car insurance policy may seem like an easy way to save money if you’re not driving your vehicle often, but it’s illegal to drive your car at all without coverage — and if you’re involved in an accident, you’ll have to pay for expensive repairs out of pocket. Luckily, you can update your car insurance coverage to reflect the fact that you’re not driving as much as you used to, which could result in a lower premium.

CARS

Tips for Driving on the Highway for the First Time

Driving on the highway for the first time can be nerve racking, which is why it’s common for new drivers to only navigate local roads until they gain enough real-world experience to venture onto the interstate. Once a new driver is ready to take on a highway, being fully prepared can help a beginner make a smooth and safe transition from local roads to the interstate.

Here are some highway driving tips that new drivers should consider before driving on the highway for the first time.

1. Pick the right time to start driving on the highway
If you’re planning your first highway drive, you want to pick the right time and place. Consider starting off on a highway that isn’t too busy, or during a time of day when less drivers are on the road. You also want to drive on a bright, clear day without any rain, snow or fog that could decrease visibility.

2. Start off driving in the right lane
When you’re driving on the highway for the first time, you should only drive in the right lane. Young drivers really have no business heading into the left lane, which is intended for passing. “Staying in the right lane will help them interact with traffic coming onto the freeway, and they’ll maintain their speed easier there,” says Maria A. Wojtczak, who owns and operates DrivingMBA, a driver’s-ed business in Arizona.

3. Leave enough space to change lanes
Establishing proper speed and distance remains key to managing a lane change on an interstate. Drivers should leave four to six seconds-worth of space between their car and the vehicle in front of them as they maneuver. You should also routinely check the rear-view, side-view mirror and blind spot before switching over. More space means you have more time to avoid a collision or react to debris on the highway.

4. Use turn signals when merging and changing lanes
Young drivers must get in the habit of using their blinkers constantly, even if they believe their intentions are obvious. “Blinkers are the only way we have to communicate with other drivers,” says Chris Duquin, owner of Stevens Driving School, which has several locations in the state of New York. “It’s amazing how often drivers cause problems by not using them on highways.”

5. Keep a wide viewpoint
Newer drivers tend to stare at what’s right in front of them. But highway speeds and unpredictability demand a wider viewpoint. “They need to look closely in front of their vehicle, but also farther down the road and into the rear-view,” Duquin says. “Good drivers continuously adjust their observation points.”

6. Keep your cool while driving
Learning to drive on the highway is about more than proper driving—it’s also about making sure a young driver’s maturity level is up to the task. “They must understand never to take anything personally, especially on a highway,” says Michael Soubirous, a retired California Highway Patrol lieutenant who now writes a local newspaper column in Riverside, Calif., called “On the Road.” “If someone cuts you off, let it go. You never know the mental state of the other party and maybe they simply made a mistake. Drivers are not perfect, after all.”

7. Stay focused on the road
According to the CDC, drivers under the age of 20 have the highest proportion of distraction-related fatal crashes. That’s why it’s crucial to stay focused on the highway. Don’t text on your phone, try to change music or be distracted by talking to friends while driving on the highway. Find out ways to prevent teen distracted driving.

CARS

Avoid These Bad Driving Habits to Stay Safe on the Road

When drivers are negligent, they can cause accidents and claim lives. But even everyday habits can have the same effect. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety estimates over 38,680 auto accident deaths occurred in the United States in 2020. Let’s look at some all-too-common habits that can cause auto accidents and tips for avoiding them from CrashTest.org.

1. Driving Under the Influence
Every day in the United States, roughly 30 people die from alcohol-related driving accidents according to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Alcohol and drugs impair reasoning and reflexes, which is why many drunk drivers (or “buzzed drivers”) overestimate their ability to drive safely or believe they won’t get caught. Planning ahead can save lives – take a cab or designate a sober driver, and make sure your friends do the same.

2. Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is any activity that involves drivers looking away from the road, including talking, eating and adjusting the radio – but smartphones have taken distracted driving to a new level. In 2019, 3,142 people were killed in distracted driving accidents. Cell phone use poses a special threat because it involves high-attention activities like texting, surfing the internet, and even taking selfies while driving. Using cell phones while driving is so pervasive (and deadly) that drivers of all ages are pledging to not text and drive.

3. Speeding
Speeding has been a consistent factor in motor vehicle crashes and fatalities for decades. Car accidents that involved speeding accounted for 26% of traffic fatalities in 2019. Driving faster than the posted speed limit increases the chances of collision on its own, but often occurs with other risky behavior, such as distracted driving, aggressive driving (or “road rage”) and even drunk driving.

4. Driving Without a Seatbelt
Wearing a seatbelt can dramatically reduce or prevent injuries, yet many drivers don’t consistently wear one. According to the CDC, seatbelts can reduce serious crash-related injuries and deaths by about half. Not wearing a seatbelt is particularly common in young people (ages 18-34), who are less likely to wear one than other age groups. Furthermore, men are 10% less likely than women to wear seatbelts. Whether you’re going on a road trip or going around the corner, wearing a seatbelt is one of the easiest ways to keep safe on the road.

5. Driving While Tired
According to the NHTSA, 697 fatalities in 2019 were the result of drowsy driving. Driving while tired has similar effects as drunk driving: slower reaction times, decreased awareness and impaired decision-making. Drowsy driving also includes falling asleep behind the wheel, which can be fatal even if it only lasts a few seconds. Commercial drivers and young drivers (ages 16-25) are more likely to drive tired. Drinking coffee, listening to music or opening a window can help energize drivers; so can pulling over to a safe area and taking a short nap.

6. Driving in Bad Weather
Snow, rain, sleet – bad weather conditions can affect even the most careful drivers. The Federal Highway Administration estimates that 21% of crashes are related to weather and result in over 5,000 deaths a year. Wet pavement is the leading cause (70%), followed by rain (46%) and snow/sleet (18%). When driving in inclement weather, make sure your tires have adequate traction, your headlights are working and you use chains or snow tires in the winter. One of the easiest ways to stay safe in bad weather is to simply slow down.

7. Road Rage
A quick temper can put you and others in danger. When you’re on the road, keep your emotions in check -remember that the other motorists’ actions are not personal, and any anger you feel as a result doesn’t merit a response that could cause an accident. The more you stick with fundamentally sound, safe habits, the better your chances of avoiding a confrontation.

CARS

How to remove bad smells from your car

Everyone wants to maintain the new-car smell as long as possible. But what do you do when the air turns musty? Here’s a look at 6 common causes of car odors and how you can remove them.

How to check for hidden odor sources
Play detective and check around the car for anything that could be causing the odor. Look in pockets, under seats, on floor mats and even in the glove compartment for baby bottles, moldy fruit or unidentified blobs that may have been dragged in on the bottom of someone’s shoe. Immediately remove and throw any of these away and open the doors for a while to let any lingering odor dissipate. Don’t forget that sometimes a bad smell can also be a sign of an overheated car – or you may be in need of an oil change.

How to clean car carpet and upholstery
If you can’t find the source, pull out the car vacuum. Many times, the upholstery, carpet or fabric interior can trap odors. Work the vacuum all around and down into crevices using the upholstery attachment. If this doesn’t do the trick but you believe this is the source of your odor issue, try steam cleaning where possible. Use car cleaning tools to make cleaning the interior easier. If your car has leather seats, there are simple ways to clean leather seats.

How to get cigarette smoke smell out of car
Keep in mind that cigarette smoke has a way of getting everywhere, including into the vents. Spray a car odor eliminator into the vents as well as through the intake valve under the hood. In addition, open all the windows and doors to air things out.

Keep in mind that smoking leaves behind tar, which is a sticky substance. Wipe down the interior panels with a 50/50 solution of water and vinegar. If the odor still lingers, mix in some dish soap as well. Once finished, wipe the interior surfaces dry.

How to get vomit smell out of car
Don’t forget about small children or pets who may have had an accident on the upholstery or who, may have had a moment of carsickness. Even if these accidents were wiped up right away, a deeper clean may be necessary to fully get rid of the odor. If it has already dried, use your 50/50 water and vinegar solution to rehydrate the spot and then remove it with a wet/dry vacuum. Spreading cat litter on the area or sprinkling it with baking soda can also help absorb odors. Worried about other messes with kids in the car? Here are tips for keeping your car clean with kids.

How to get mildew smell out of a car
Mildew is another source of unwelcome odors. All you need is one rainstorm and an overlooked partially open window (or even just a small leak with a buildup of condensation), to experience this. Luckily, removing mildew smells in cars is fairly straightforward. A wet/dry vacuum can help remove remaining water from carpets and upholstery but, in a pinch, even a hair dryer might work. You can also remove odors with baking soda by sprinkling it on the affected area and letting it absorb for two hours before vacuuming it away.

How to get musty AC smell out of a car’s air conditioner
Another possible source of that musty smell is the air conditioning system. One telltale sign is damp floor mats near the air conditioner. If you find an odor coming from this area, open the front cover and remove the filter. Use a nylon scrub pad to remove any mold growth, then use a cotton swab to dry it. (To finish drying things out, turn on the car’s heater.) When you’re sure the area is completely dry, apply an anti-mildew solution, enzymatic cleaner or odor absorber. You could also sprinkle baking soda on the upholstery and leave it in place for a day or so before vacuuming away. By then, the smell should have dissipated. You also may, of course, remove any car mats and let them air out for a while. Dust can also pile up inside the vents and lead to a musty smell in a car. In this case, vacuum the vents and use the water-vinegar solution on the interior.

Everyday cleaning products for your car
Before resorting to having your car professionally detailed, there are a number of tools and products that can help eliminate odors. You may even already have some of these in your home:

Baking soda
Vinegar
Dish soap
Vacuum cleaner
Carpet cleaner
Charcoal
Odor-absorbing crystals/gels
Disinfectant wipes
If you find the odor in your car persists after repeated cleanings with different products, it could be time to bring it to a trusted professional car detailer. However, it might also be possible that the lingering odor is a symptom of a more serious car problem. Some common smells can indicate a more significant issue; for example, if you smell rotten eggs when your engine is running, there may be a problem with your car’s catalytic converter. [6] If you feel unsure about a smell coming from your car, have the vehicle looked at by a trusted mechanic as soon as possible to avoid more dangerous or costly problems.

By finding the source of car odors and treating them, your car should smell great. With the help of air fresheners, your car could almost smell as good as new.

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