Car & Driving Tips
Experts share advice on all things related to your car: from how and when to buy or lease a new or used car to how to manage car repairs and scheduled maintenance. Stay updated on car seat laws, learn the basics like how to change a tire, and get practical tips for driving safely and smartly.
![child seated in a blue car seat](https://assets.goaaa.com/image/upload/q_auto:best,f_auto,w_590,h_500,c_fill,g_auto/v1647564091/singularity-migrated-images/child-car-seat-how-to-install-safely-via-magazine_0.jpg.jpg)
Is Your Child's Car Seat Properly Installed?
When used correctly, car seats can dramatically reduce the risk of fatal injuries for young kids.
![a AAA Member cleans the windows on his car](https://assets.goaaa.com/image/upload/q_auto:best,f_auto,w_590,h_500,c_fill,g_auto/v1647565081/singularity-migrated-images/prepare-car-to-drive-checklist-via-magazine-shutterstock_586694765-blue.jpg.jpg)
Is Your Car Ready for a Road Trip?
Kick the tires and take a peek under the hood before you go.
![A couple hold the keys to their new sedan.](https://assets.goaaa.com/image/upload/q_auto:best,f_auto,w_590,h_500,c_fill,g_auto/v1650647965/singularity-migrated-images/car-safety-via-magazine-aaa-shutterstock_1490123159-1x2.jpg.jpg)
How to Buy a Safer Car
What do car safety ratings mean and what else should you be looking for?
![A woman yawns while driving.](https://assets.goaaa.com/image/upload/q_auto:best,f_auto,w_590,h_500,c_fill,g_auto/v1647566683/singularity-migrated-images/drowsy-driving-dangers-aaa-via-magazine-AdobeStock_158322584-hero.jpg.jpg)
Drowsy Driving is as Dangerous as Drunk Driving
Being tired behind the wheel can increase your risk of a crash.
![a woman's hands unzip her black wallet as she goes to remove her ID](https://assets.goaaa.com/image/upload/q_auto:best,f_auto,w_590,h_500,c_fill,g_auto/v1647565269/singularity-migrated-images/real-id-how-to-get-one-via-magazine.jpeg.jpg)
How to Get a REAL ID
What you need to know about the new requirements going into effect on May 7, 2025.
![AAA auto mechanic drains engine oil.](https://assets.goaaa.com/image/upload/q_auto:best,f_auto,w_590,h_500,c_fill,g_auto/v1718840082/aaa-auto-shop-oil-change-questions-answered-via-magazine-aaa-credit-james-bueti-v2.jpg)
Your Top Oil Change Questions Answered
AAA experts answer all the most burning questions about oil changes.
![Luggage in the back of a rental car.](https://assets.goaaa.com/image/upload/q_auto:best,f_auto,w_590,h_500,c_fill,g_auto/v1647565754/singularity-migrated-images/things-know-rent-car-via-magazine-teaser-shutterstock-225607960-2x1.jpg.jpg)
7 Things to Know Before You Rent a Car
Whether you plan to drive in the U.S. or abroad, find out how to save money and reduce risk on your car rental.
![two women with smartphone seated on open SUV hatchback plan road trip](https://assets.goaaa.com/image/upload/q_auto:best,f_auto,w_590,h_500,c_fill,g_auto/v1647562847/singularity-migrated-images/how-to-make-long-drive-commute-productive-enjoyable-distracted-driving-safety-via-magazine.jpg.jpg)
How to Safely Make the Most of a Long Drive
Spending hours on the road? Here's how to be smart—and safe—behind the wheel.
![A passenger boat cuts through deep blue water.](https://assets.goaaa.com/image/upload/q_auto:best,f_auto,w_590,h_500,c_fill,g_auto/v1648511443/singularity-migrated-images/recreational-boat-safety-via-magazine-aaa-shutterstock_1693057597-1x2.jpg.jpg)
5 Safety Tips for Off-Road Vehicles and Watercraft
Stay safe while riding dirt bikes, boats, jet skis, and ATVs this summer.
![A mechanic prepares a tool in a AAA repair shop](https://assets.goaaa.com/image/upload/q_auto:best,f_auto,w_590,h_500,c_fill,g_auto/v1715104651/find-trustworthy-mechanic-via-magazine-aaa-MJ24-james-bueti.jpg)
How to Find a Quality Auto Shop and Get the Most From Your Mechanic
5 easy steps to create a beneficial and positive relationship with your auto mechanic.
![A man rides a shared bike on a protected bike lane in New York City.](https://assets.goaaa.com/image/upload/q_auto:best,f_auto,w_590,h_500,c_fill,g_auto/v1647564388/singularity-migrated-images/how-to-safely-legally-drive-near-cyclists-via-magazine-shutterstock_1155677656.jpg.jpg)
How to Safely and Legally Share the Road with Cyclists
Drivers need to be especially cautious around cyclists. Here’s how best to share the road.
![a young man in a brand-new car holding keys](https://assets.goaaa.com/image/upload/q_auto:best,f_auto,w_590,h_500,c_fill,g_auto/v1647563983/singularity-migrated-images/how-to-buy-a-car-young-man-in-a-car-he-just-bought-via-magazine_0.jpeg.jpg)
First Timers’ Guide to Buying a Car
The beginner’s guide to buying a car with three easy-to-follow steps.
![close up of man's hand holding cap of power steeling fluid reservoir tank in car service shop](https://assets.goaaa.com/image/upload/q_auto:best,f_auto,w_590,h_500,c_fill,g_auto/v1647566240/singularity-migrated-images/checking-fluids-car-ready-for-summer-smart-life-via-magazine-hero.jpg.jpg)
Is Your Car Ready for Summer?
The heat of the season is tough on vehicles. A little prep can help you steer clear of trouble.
![A couple rides their e-bikes on a tree-lined bike path.](https://assets.goaaa.com/image/upload/q_auto:best,f_auto,w_590,h_500,c_fill,g_auto/v1712166621/e-bike-safety-riding-via-magazine-aaa-shutterstock_1310427493-cropped.jpg)
How to Safely Ride and Charge E-bikes
Electric bikes come with risks: here’s how to rent and ride with confidence.
![A family sits in the hatchback of their blue electric SUV](https://assets.goaaa.com/image/upload/q_auto:best,f_auto,w_590,h_500,c_fill,g_auto/v1711400684/family-used-ev-buying-tips-via-magazine-aaa-shutterstock_2316236971.jpg)
What to Consider When Buying a Used EV
These are the most important things to look for when shopping.