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  • driving in the rain

    How to Drive in the Rain

    Safety May 15, 2025

    Driving in the rain can be a slippery situation - slick road conditions, poor visibility and possible hydroplaning or skidding. More than 1 million weather-related crashes occur each year – most on wet pavement and nearly half while raining. Smart drivers know techniques for driving in the rain, avoiding hydroplaning and using the vehicle’s safety features. Here are some tips for driving in wet conditions that you can save for a rainy day.

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  • A mechanic holding a clipboard while inspecting under the hood of a car.

    How to Prevent Catalytic Converter Theft

    Vehicle April 14, 2025

    If you find yourself wondering how to protect yourself from catalytic converter theft, you’re not alone. Catalytic converter theft can lead to expensive replacement and repairs, plus potential fines for non-compliance with federal regulations. Here’s everything you need to know about catalytic converters and theft prevention.  What is a catalytic converter? A catalytic converter is a...

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  • A red brick chimney sitting on top of a terra cotta tile roof.

    How to Clean a Chimney

    Home February 25, 2025

    Cleaning your chimney is essential for the safety of your home, as it can help prevent dangerous chimney fires caused by creosote buildup, a flammable residue from wood smoke. This article explains when and how to clean your chimney, the signs your chimney needs attention, DIY methods and more. [1] Why is chimney cleaning important?...

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  • A couple sitting on the kitchen floor.

    Seasonal Home Maintenance Checklist

    Home February 20, 2025

    Home maintenance is an ongoing process. From raking leaves and replacing shingles to cleaning disposals and replacing batteries in smoke detectors, there’s always something to do around the house. The following home maintenance checklist has items you can tackle now and throughout the year to keep your home running smoothly. Monthly home maintenance checklist Owning...

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  • A young driver checking the side mirror while reversing the car.

    How to Parallel Park

    New Drivers January 23, 2025

    Parallel parking can be intimidating for even the most experienced drivers. The good news is that the process of maneuvering a vehicle between parked cars and parallel to the road gets easier with practice. Use our step-by-step guide and tips to feel more confident about parallel parking. [1] 1. Ensure that the parking space is...

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  • Brown duck boots sitting in front of a lit fireplace.

    How to Winterize a House

    Home January 13, 2025

    If winter weather catches you off guard and your home is not prepared for heavy snow and cold, you can experience damage ranging from burst pipes to a collapsed roof. Costs for repairs of this scale add up quickly, so prepare in autumn to protect your house during the colder months. Follow these winterizing tips...

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  • A young couple unpacking a box during a move.

    Apartment Moving Out Checklist: A Tenant’s Guide to Getting Your Security Deposit Back

    Home October 17, 2024

    The end of your lease is approaching, and it’s almost time to move. One of the key things you might be concerned about is whether you’ll get your security deposit back. Our moving-out checklist details what typically needs to be cleaned in an apartment to help you get your security deposit returned. Review the move-out...

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  • A woman shopping in a store.

    Online Shopping vs. In-Store Shopping: Pros and Cons

    My Money May 23, 2024

    Shopping has evolved dramatically over the past several decades, providing consumers with more choice and convenience whether they shop in brick-and-mortar stores or browse online for their purchases. Even holiday shopping has adapted to the changing landscape, with Black Friday and Cyber Monday appealing to online and in-store shoppers. It’s easy to assume there is a...

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  • A car parked in the snow.

    Tire Rotation Overview: Why and When to Do It

    Maintenance April 23, 2024

    Keeping your tires in good condition can be the difference between a safe ride and an accident. If your tires wear or get misaligned over time, this can lead to a more dangerous ride. That’s why it’s important to get your tires serviced so they can be rotated and wear more evenly. [1] What is...

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  • A patio with a wooden pergola and outdoor furniture next to a garage.

    Deck vs. Patio: Which Is Right for You?

    Maintenance April 19, 2024

    Want an outdoor space to entertain friends and family when the nicer weather comes? Before starting construction, you may want to consider whether a deck or patio is best for your home. Here are some of the factors you’ll want to carefully weigh before making your decision. What is the difference between a deck and...

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  • White SUV parked on a mountain road.

    Wheel Alignment vs. Balance: What’s the Difference?

    Maintenance April 2, 2024

    While wheel alignment and balance both contribute to a smoother ride, the services are quite different. A wheel alignment makes sure your tires contact the road in the correct way by adjusting the angles of your tires, while a tire balance corrects the weight imbalance on the wheel and tire. Here’s a deeper dive into...

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  • A steering wheel and a car dashboard.

    Cruise Control: What It Is and How to Use It

    Safety March 28, 2024

    How to use cruise control The location of the cruise control buttons can vary per car. For your car, check the manufacturer’s manual for the location and specific instructions. To set cruise control, press the ON/OFF button or switch. If you press this button again, it typically turns the system off. The Res + (resume...

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