AUTO

Red to dead, red to good, black to good, black to bare metal on the dead car — not the dead battery. That last clamp is the one people get wrong.

Safety first, then evidence. What you're legally required to do at the scene, what to photograph, what to say — and the one thing not to say.

The PSI molded into the sidewall is the maximum the tire can hold — not what your car needs. The right number is on a sticker inside the driver's door.

Lincoln's head showing means your tires were already dangerous. The quarter test catches the problem sooner, and tread wear bars are built into every tire for a reason.

Auto parts stores will read the code for free. Knowing the code before you go to a mechanic is the difference between an informed conversation and getting quoted whatever they think you'll pay.

Third-party vehicle service contracts are sold as warranties, aren't, and are one of the most reported scams in the country. Here's how to tell a legitimate extended warranty from a scam.

A new car that's been in the shop for the same defect multiple times, or out of service too many days, may legally entitle you to a refund or replacement. Most people never file.