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Your car’s steering wheel lock is the first line of defense against vehicle theft. Here’s how these mechanisms work and how they can help protect your car or truck.
What Is a Steering Wheel Lock?
Steering wheel locks have been around since the 1920s. Back then, motorists would place a “crook lock” or “club lock” across the steering wheel to combat theft. Consumers can still purchase modern forms of these external locks, though most cars today are pre-equipped with a steering column lock, a type of locking mechanism that physically stops the vehicle’s wheels from turning when the ignition key is removed.
How Do Steering Wheels Lock Work?
These tools work by simply bracing against the steering wheel, keeping it from turning, while a separate lock on the device itself keeps it engaged.
Steering column locks rely on an internal mechanism that locks the car’s steering wheel. When the ignition key is removed, any movement to the steering wheel will release a spring-loaded lever that engages a slot and locks the mechanism. The only way to unlock the wheel is to insert the ignition key and turn the engine on.
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Bugs — Disgusting as they are, it’s not like you can swerve around them, and they can make it hard to keep your windshield looking brand-new. We’ve compiled a round-up of the best bug removers for cars, so you can always keep your vehicle in showroom condition.
1. McKee’s 37 Road Kill Bug Remover
The simplicity and versatility of McKee’s 37 Road Kill Bug Remover make it a product you’re bound to love. Simply spray it on the affected area, wait, then wipe the area clean with a microfiber towel.
It’s even safe to use on the body of your car alongside your windshield. Just add it to a bucket of soapy water, and you’ll be set to wash your car’s exterior from top to bottom. The only drawback of this bug remover is its slightly heftier price tag compared to others on the market. Still, the convenience and effectiveness it provides may make it worth the premium.
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In large part due to the global supply chain crisis of the past few years and the infamous chip shortage that has resulted from it, the costs of new cars have skyrocketed in recent years. Demand has been so high that even used cars have increased in price.
Despite all of this, there may indeed be a light at the end of the tunnel. The cost of cars is beginning to decline. Here’s everything you need to know about the current car market and some guidance on the best time to buy a car.
The Good News: Car Prices Are Dropping
The average automotive transaction price climbed to $46,173 in July — an industry record — but a recent report from J.D. Power indicates that prices will begin to drop from this autumn and onward, resulting in prices that are “several hundred dollars cheaper” than this summer’s historic highs. Kelly Blue Book confirms this prediction, noting a 0.3% drop in prices between August and September.
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What’s under the hood of your car? The type of engine that powers your vehicle can have a considerable impact on your power, fuel economy, and emissions. Rotary engines represent a unique type of engine and offer some key differences from traditional piston engines, but what is a rotary engine? How does it work? Learn more with this helpful guide.
What Is a Rotary Engine?
A rotary engine (also called a “Wankel” engine) is a specialized type of internal combustion engine that relies on an odd number of cylinders in a radial layout. As the name suggests, the components of a rotary engine rotate.
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Detailing a car can restore its factory-fresh feel, though the process also requires careful attention to detail. To keep your vehicle in showroom condition, you’ll need the right tools for your sensitive components and hard-to-reach crevices. If you’re detailing your car, these five detailing brushes are absolute must-haves.
1. Best Overall: Chemical Guys Boar’s Hair Detailing Brush
Designed to be a jack-of-all-trades, the Chemical Guys Boar’s Hair Detailing Brush can be used both inside and outside the car. It’s strong enough to be effective while still delicate enough not to leave scratches on your fine surfaces, and the bristles won’t fall out from prolonged use.