
What Happens if You Ignore Your Brake Pads? A Parent’s Guide to Car Safety
Worn brake pads can turn a quick, affordable repair into a dangerous and costly problem. Learn how to spot the signs early, avoid expensive damage, and keep your family safe on the road with this simple brake maintenance guide from AskAMechanic.org.

What Is That Burning Smell in Your Car?
Whether it smells like burning rubber, oil, plastic, or even maple syrup, a strange odor in your car could mean something important. In this post, we’ll break down what each burning smell might be, how to identify the source, and when it’s time to call a mechanic. Trust your nose—it might just keep your family safe.

Car Leaking? Here’s How to Decode the Fluid
Not all puddles under your car spell disaster, but some do. From harmless condensation to serious brake fluid leaks, knowing what’s dripping can save you time, money, and a dangerous drive. In this guide, we’ll show you how to decode the color, location, and urgency of any leak, plus when it’s safe to drive and when to call a mechanic.

3 Things to Check Before a Road Trip (Parent-Approved Checklist)
Whether you're planning a family getaway or your teen's heading out solo for the first time, a smooth trip starts with three simple checks: oil, tires, and battery. Skip them, and you might find yourself stranded—or worse, calling a tow truck from the side of the highway. In this guide, we break down exactly what to look for, how to check it, and why these steps matter more than ever for road trip peace of mind.

The Truth About Cheap Tires
It’s not always practical to buy expensive tires, and maybe it’s not necessary. What do you need to understand in order to buy the right tires for you?

What Does “Routine Maintenance” Really Mean?
Your teen is so excited for that car. You’ve got the dice in the mirror. The tank is full. Before you let them ride off in the sunset, make sure you send them off with a clear understanding of when to drop by a mechanic for regular car maintenance. Read more about it.

When to Replace Your Tires—A Parent's Guide
Let’s take a look at the best time to replace your family’s tires.

The Ultimate Teen Car Emergency Preparedness Kit
Not sure what to pack in your teen's car for emergencies? From flat tires to dead batteries and everything in between, we’ve created the ultimate checklist of must-have items to keep them safe, confident, and prepared—without overwhelming their trunk. Discover the essentials every new driver needs (and why they matter).

What does the check engine light mean for Subarus?
If your check engine light comes on, an investment of about $20 can give you the information you need to make decisions. Is this serious?

Why Is My Car Making a Rattling Noise When Idle?
Funky sounds are a great diagnostic tool, letting you know something could be wrong with your car. Let’s dive into some issues that could be indicated by a car rattle sound.