I Drove 10 of the Most Overrated Cars of All Time: A Brutal Ranking (Worst to Best)
My journey through overrated cars began with a famously beautiful but notoriously unreliable sports car; it was like dating a supermodel who was constantly ill and had expensive taste. Next was a quirky, unconventional car that looked cool but drove like a shopping cart with a mind of its own. The most overrated car that still earned my respect was a legendary muscle car. While its handling was boat-like and its interior was cheap plastic, the raw, thunderous power of its engine provided a thrilling, unforgettable experience that almost lived up to the massive hype.
Ranking Every Car I’ve Ever Owned, From Lemon to Legend (Worst to Best)
My automotive life started with a true lemon: a cheap used sedan that spent more time in the repair shop than on the road, feeling less like a car and more like a very expensive paperweight. My next car was a boring but dependable hatchback—the automotive equivalent of oatmeal; it got the job done with zero excitement. The legend of my garage, however, was my first SUV. It survived cross-country road trips, clumsy new-driver mistakes, and never once left me stranded. It wasn’t the fastest or prettiest, but its unwavering reliability made it a true legend in my heart.
I Tested the Real-World Fuel Economy of 15 Popular SUVs: The Results Will Shock You (Worst to Best)
My fuel economy test had some real surprises. The worst offender was a large SUV whose real-world mileage was like a leaky bucket, getting nowhere near its advertised numbers. The middle of the pack consisted of SUVs that met their window-sticker promises but offered no pleasant surprises. The absolute champion was a modest-looking hybrid SUV. It quietly and consistently beat its official rating by a huge margin, sipping fuel so slowly it felt like the gas gauge was broken. It proved that sometimes the most impressive performers are the ones that don’t shout about it.
Ranking the Most Unreliable and Dependable Car Brands, According to Mechanics (Worst to Best)
Chatting with mechanics revealed a clear pecking order. The most unreliable brands were described as being overly complex, like a Swiss watch that requires a specialist for every tiny issue, leading to astronomical repair bills. Brands in the middle had their known quirks but were generally manageable. The most dependable brands, mechanics agreed, were those built with simplicity and durability in mind. They were compared to a good old-fashioned hammer—simple, effective, and rarely breaking, making them the champions of low-stress, affordable ownership that mechanics see the least of.
I Tried to Negotiate a Car Deal at 5 Different Dealerships: Here’s What I Learned (Worst to Best)
My negotiation experiment was a wild ride. The worst dealership used high-pressure tactics and a confusing shell game of numbers, trying to sneak in fees like a magician hiding a card. The average dealerships engaged in the classic, time-wasting back-and-forth between me and the “manager in the back.” The best experience, by far, was at a dealership with a clear, no-haggle price. The process was transparent, respectful, and fast. It felt less like a battle and more like a straightforward purchase, proving that an honest approach is the winning formula.
Ranking the Most Iconic and Forgettable Movie Cars (Worst to Best)
Movie cars range from legendary to barely noticeable. The most forgettable are the generic sedans the background characters drive; they’re just part of the scenery. More memorable are the cool-but-not-iconic cars, like a hero’s slick sports car that looks good but has no special gadgets. The most iconic movie cars, however, are characters themselves. Think of the DeLorean from Back to the Future or James Bond’s gadget-filled Aston Martin. They are so intertwined with the story and our imagination that the film would be completely different without them, making them true cinematic legends.
I Compared the 0-60 Times of 10 “Affordable” Sports Cars: The Surprising Winner (Worst to Best)
Testing affordable sports cars revealed that a big engine isn’t everything. The slowest car, despite its muscular looks, felt sluggish, like a bodybuilder who can’t run fast. The middle of the pack delivered the expected thrills, pinning me to my seat in a satisfying way. The surprising winner wasn’t the one with the most horsepower. It was a lightweight, turbocharged car that shot off the line like a slingshot. Its clever engineering and lack of excess weight proved that being nimble and smart is a more effective path to speed than just brute force.
Ranking the Most Dangerous and Safest Cars You Can Buy Today (Worst to Best)
When it comes to safety, not all cars are created equal. The most dangerous are older models lacking modern safety features like airbags and stability control, offering as much protection as a cardboard box in a collision. Mid-tier cars have the basics but lack advanced driver-assistance systems. The safest cars you can buy today are like a personal bodyguard on wheels. They are built with high-strength steel and are packed with an invisible shield of sensors for automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist, actively working to prevent an accident before it ever happens.
I Lived in a Van for a Week: Ranking the Most Essential and Useless Features (Worst to Best)
My week in a van taught me about true necessities. The most useless feature was the tiny, awkward shower; it was more trouble than it was worth. A comfortable bed was crucial, but the most essential feature, the undisputed champion, was a reliable power system with solar panels. It was the heart of the entire operation, quietly powering my lights, fridge, and laptop. This silent workhorse provided the freedom and comfort that made van life feel less like camping and more like a tiny, mobile home, proving that power is the ultimate key to life on the road.
Ranking the Most Common and Expensive Car Repair Scams (Worst to Best)
Car repair scams prey on a lack of knowledge. A common but less expensive scam is being upsold on unnecessary services like a fluid flush when it’s not due. A more expensive scam involves mechanics claiming you need premium parts when standard ones will do. The most expensive and dangerous scam, however, is when a dishonest shop invents a major problem, like a failing transmission. They are essentially selling you a very expensive and unnecessary ghost story. The best defense is always getting a second opinion for any major repair.
I Detailed My Car Using 10 Different “Viral” Cleaning Hacks: Here’s What Actually Worked (Worst to Best)
My car cleaning hack experiment was messy. The worst hack involved using a popular soda to clean my tires, which just left a sticky, bug-attracting mess. Using a “magic” eraser on my dashboard left a dull, scuffed patch. The hack that actually worked wonders was using a simple mixture of vinegar and water to get my windows streak-free. But the undisputed winner was using a cheap paintbrush to dust my air vents and crevices. It was simple, effective, and got into places a cloth never could, proving the best solutions are often the simplest ones.
Ranking the Best and Worst States to Own an Electric Car (Worst to Best)
Owning an electric car (EV) varies wildly by state. The worst states are “charging deserts,” with few public chargers, high electricity rates, and no government incentives. It’s like trying to drive through a desert with no gas stations. The middle-tier states have some chargers in major cities but are lacking in rural areas. The best states for EV ownership are a driver’s paradise. They have a dense network of fast chargers, offer generous tax credits and rebates, and have lower electricity costs, making the decision to go electric easy, affordable, and stress-free.
I Took 5 Different Driving School Courses: A Realistic Ranking for New Drivers (Worst to Best)
Not all driving schools are the same. The worst was a boring, classroom-only course that felt like a long lecture, providing theory but no real-world confidence. A better school offered basic behind-the-wheel instruction but stuck to quiet suburban streets. The best driving school, however, was like a comprehensive training program. It combined engaging classroom lessons with practical driving in a variety of conditions—including highways and city traffic—and even taught emergency maneuvers. It didn’t just teach me how to pass the test; it taught me how to be a safe, confident driver for life.
Ranking the Most Common and Annoying Things Other Drivers Do (Worst to Best)
On the road, some bad habits are worse than others. Annoying but less dangerous is the driver who goes under the speed limit in the fast lane. More frustrating and hazardous is the driver who constantly tailgates, leaving no room for error. The most annoying and dangerous behavior, however, is distracted driving. The driver glued to their phone is an unpredictable and terrifying hazard for everyone. They are not just being rude; they are actively putting lives at risk, making them the undisputed worst offenders on the road.
I Compared the Cost of Owning a Gas Car vs. an Electric Car for a Year (Worst to Best)
My year-long cost comparison was illuminating. The gas car’s expenses were like a constant, unpredictable drip—volatile gas prices, oil changes, and routine maintenance added up quickly. The electric car, in contrast, was like a subscription service. The “fuel” cost from charging at home was low and predictable, and with almost no maintenance required besides tire rotations, the running costs were shockingly low. While the initial purchase price was higher, the significantly cheaper and more stable cost of ownership made the electric car the clear financial winner over the course of the year.
Ranking the Most Beautiful and Ugliest Car Designs of the 21st Century (Worst to Best)
Car design this century has had high highs and low lows. The ugliest designs often come from trying too hard—cars with awkward proportions and bizarre angles that look like a failed science experiment. The middle ground is filled with forgettable, blob-like cars that are designed not to offend anyone and end up inspiring no one. The most beautiful designs, however, achieve a timeless elegance. They have perfect proportions, clean lines, and a sense of motion even when standing still, making them rolling pieces of art that will be admired for decades to come.
I Tried to Restore a Classic Car on a Budget: My Mistakes Ranked (Worst to Best)
Restoring a classic car on a budget was a lesson in humility. My biggest mistake was buying a car with significant rust, the automotive equivalent of cancer; it spread everywhere and was incredibly expensive to fix. A less costly mistake was buying cheap tools that broke easily. My most forgivable mistake was underestimating the time everything would take. The best decision I made was joining a car club. The free advice and shared experience from veteran restorers were more valuable than any tool I could buy, proving that a supportive community is the best asset in any project.
Ranking the Most Important and Overlooked Features to Look for in a Family Car (Worst to Best)
When shopping for a family car, it’s easy to focus on the wrong things. An overlooked but important feature is the quality of the rear air vents—a small detail that makes a huge difference to your passengers’ comfort. More important is the ease of installing a car seat; some cars make this a frustrating puzzle. The most important and often overlooked feature, however, is storage. I’m not talking about trunk space, but the small cubbies, pockets, and compartments that swallow up the snacks, toys, and miscellaneous items that come with family life. Good storage is the secret to a sane and organized family car.
I Tested the Off-Road Capabilities of 5 Different 4x4s: A Muddy Ranking (Worst to Best)
My off-road test separated the pretenders from the contenders. The worst performer was an SUV with all-wheel drive that was really just for slippery roads; it got stuck in the first patch of deep mud. The mid-tier trucks handled most obstacles but lacked features like locking differentials. The most capable 4×4, however, was like a mountain goat. With its advanced four-wheel-drive system, high ground clearance, and rugged tires, it crawled over rocks and through deep mud with unbelievable ease. It didn’t just handle the trail; it felt completely at home there.
Ranking the Best and Worst Car Commercials of All Time (Worst to Best)
Car commercials can be art or just noise. The worst are the ones full of confusing jargon and shots of a car driving on an empty, winding road, telling you nothing of substance. The better commercials use humor or a celebrity to get your attention. The best car commercials of all time, however, tell a story. They connect with you on an emotional level, focusing not on the car’s features, but on the life, adventures, and memories the car makes possible. They don’t just sell a machine; they sell a dream.
I Compared the Resale Value of 10 Popular Car Models After 5 Years (Worst to Best)
Comparing resale values after five years revealed a massive difference. The worst performers were some luxury sedans, which lost value like a leaking balloon, shedding over half their original price. The middle of the pack consisted of typical family cars that depreciated at a predictable rate. The champions of resale value were trucks and certain reliable SUVs. They held their value so well it was like putting money in a savings account that you also get to drive. Their reputation for durability and desirability made them the smartest financial choice in the long run.
Ranking the Most Common and Frustrating Things About Public Transportation (Worst to Best)
Public transportation is a mixed bag of frustrations. A common annoyance is the lack of cleanliness on some buses or trains. More frustrating are the unpredictable delays and “ghost buses” that appear on the app but never arrive. The most frustrating thing, however, is the “last mile” problem—the bus stop or train station is often just a bit too far from your actual destination, forcing a long walk in bad weather. It’s this final inconvenience that can make the entire system feel impractical for everyday use.
I Tried to Get My Driver’s License in 3 Different Countries: The Easiest to Hardest Ranked (Worst to Best)
Getting a driver’s license in different countries was an eye-opening cultural experience. The easiest country had a simple written test and a brief, straightforward driving exam around a few city blocks. The country in the middle required a more comprehensive test, including a highway driving portion. The hardest country, by far, had a multi-stage process with a rigorous theory exam, a hazard perception test, and a long, demanding practical exam where any small mistake resulted in an instant fail. It felt less like a driving test and more like trying to qualify as a professional chauffeur.
Ranking the Most Important and Useless Car Accessories You Can Buy (Worst to Best)
The world of car accessories is full of junk. The most useless are the silly cosmetic items like “eyelashes” for your headlights. More useful, but still not essential, are things like seat covers. The most important accessory you can buy, however, is a simple, high-quality phone mount. It keeps your navigation in your line of sight and prevents the temptation of holding your phone, making it a cheap and easy way to significantly improve your safety. A close second is a dash cam, your silent, impartial witness in case of an accident.
I Compared the Insurance Costs for 10 Different Types of Cars: The Shocking Differences (Worst to Best)
Insuring different cars revealed some shocking price gaps. The cheapest car to insure was a boring but safe family minivan; it screams “responsible driver” to insurance companies. Mid-range costs were for standard sedans and SUVs. The most expensive car to insure, by a huge margin, was a two-door sports car. Its high horsepower, higher likelihood of being in an accident, and expensive repair costs made the insurance premium almost as much as the monthly car payment itself, proving that the price of performance goes far beyond the sticker price.
Ranking the Most Common and Preventable Causes of Car Accidents (Worst to Best)
While any accident is bad, some are more preventable than others. A common cause is following too closely, which can be easily prevented by maintaining a safe distance. A more dangerous, but still preventable, cause is speeding, which reduces reaction time and increases impact severity. The most common and easily preventable cause of accidents today, however, is distracted driving. Simply putting your phone away while driving is a free and simple action that can prevent countless tragedies, making it the most critical safety decision a driver can make.
I Tried to Go on a Road Trip With 5 Different Electric Cars: The Range Anxiety Ranked (Worst to Best)
My EV road trip was a study in range anxiety. The worst experience was with an older EV with a short range and slow charging speed; I spent more time waiting at chargers than driving. The mid-range EVs had enough range for a couple of hours of driving but still required careful planning. The best EV for a road trip, however, made me forget about range anxiety altogether. With its long range and ability to charge incredibly fast, planning was effortless. It felt just like a gas car road trip, but quieter and smoother.
Ranking the Best and Worst Cities for Driving in the World (Worst to Best)
Driving in different cities can be a dream or a nightmare. The worst cities are a chaotic mess of constant gridlock, aggressive drivers, and nonexistent parking, making driving a stressful, soul-crushing experience. The better cities have more organized traffic flow but may struggle with congestion during peak hours. The best cities for driving have a logical road layout, intelligent traffic light systems, plentiful and affordable parking, and a culture of courteous driving. In these cities, driving is not a chore but a pleasant and efficient way to get around.
I Compared the Sound Systems of 10 Different Luxury Cars: A Symphony of Rankings (Worst to Best)
Testing luxury car sound systems was an audiophile’s dream. The worst, surprisingly, was in a very expensive car but sounded muddy and lacked clarity, like listening to music through a thick blanket. The mid-range systems were good, providing a clear and enjoyable listening experience. The best sound system, however, was like being in a private concert hall. With its perfectly placed speakers and crystal-clear audio, it created an immersive, three-dimensional soundscape that revealed details in my favorite songs I had never heard before. It was a truly breathtaking audio experience.
Ranking the Most Common and Annoying Car Salesman Tactics (and How to Beat Them) (Worst to Best)
Car salesmen have a playbook of annoying tactics. A common one is the “four-square” worksheet, designed to confuse you about the price. A more frustrating tactic is the “manager” routine, where the salesman disappears for long periods to “get approval.” The most annoying tactic is focusing on the monthly payment instead of the total price of the car. The best way to beat these is to be prepared: get pre-approved for a loan, know the car’s market value, and be willing to walk away. This shifts the power back to you.
I Tested the Performance of 5 Different “Budget” Tire Brands: Are They Worth the Risk? (Worst to Best)
My budget tire test showed that you often get what you pay for. The worst budget tires were downright dangerous in the rain, with long stopping distances and a tendency to hydroplane. The mid-tier budget tires performed adequately in dry conditions but were noisy and had a harsh ride. The best of the budget bunch, however, offered surprisingly good performance that was close to that of more expensive brands. While they might not last as long, they proved that you don’t have to break the bank to get safe, reliable tires if you do your research.
Ranking the Most Important and Overlooked Aspects of Car Maintenance (Worst to Best)
When it comes to car maintenance, people often focus on oil changes. An overlooked but important aspect is checking your tire pressure regularly, which affects safety and fuel economy. More important is changing your car’s various fluids—like transmission and brake fluid—at the recommended intervals. The most important and most overlooked aspect of maintenance, however, is simply reading the owner’s manual. It contains a detailed maintenance schedule created by the people who designed your car. Following it is the single best way to ensure your car lasts as long as possible.
I Compared the Self-Driving Features of 5 Different Modern Cars: A Realistic Test (Worst to Best)
Testing “self-driving” features revealed a big gap between hype and reality. The worst system was jerky and unreliable, often disengaging without warning, making it more stressful than just driving myself. The mid-range systems did a good job of centering the car in the lane on the highway but struggled with curves. The best system currently available, however, was incredibly smooth and confidence-inspiring on the highway. It handled stop-and-go traffic and long curves with ease, significantly reducing driver fatigue on long trips. It’s not true self-driving, but it’s a game-changing assistant.
Ranking the Most Common and Ridiculous Car Myths (Worst to Best)
The car world is full of myths. A common but harmless one is that you need to warm up your car for several minutes before driving; modern cars are ready to go almost immediately. A more costly myth is that you need to change your oil every 3,000 miles, when most modern cars can go much longer. The most ridiculous and persistent myth is that premium fuel will make your regular car perform better. Unless your car’s manufacturer requires it, you are literally just turning your money into exhaust fumes for no benefit.
I Tried to Get a Car Loan With Bad Credit: My Experience With 5 Different Lenders Ranked (Worst to Best)
Getting a car loan with bad credit was a lesson in predatory lending. The worst lenders were the “buy here, pay here” lots that offered guaranteed approval but at sky-high interest rates that made the car impossibly expensive. The mid-tier lenders were subprime finance companies that had slightly better rates but still packed the loan with unnecessary fees. The best experience, surprisingly, was with a local credit union. They took the time to look at my whole financial picture, not just my credit score, and offered a fair rate that made the purchase possible.
Ranking the Best and Worst Car Colors for Resale Value (Worst to Best)
A car’s color can significantly impact its resale value. The worst colors are the bold, polarizing ones like bright purple or gold; they have a very small pool of potential buyers. The mid-range colors are the very common ones like black or red, which are popular but don’t stand out. The best colors for resale value, consistently, are the neutral, inoffensive ones like white, silver, and gray. They appeal to the widest range of buyers, making the car easier to sell and helping it hold its value better over time.
I Compared the Cargo Space of 10 Different SUVs and Minivans: A Family’s Guide (Worst to Best)
My cargo space comparison showed that numbers on a spec sheet can be deceiving. The worst was a stylish SUV with a sloping roofline that severely limited the height of what I could carry. Mid-range SUVs had decent space but with awkward shapes or a high load floor. The undisputed champion of cargo space was, unsurprisingly, the minivan. With its low, flat floor and boxy shape, it swallowed up strollers, groceries, and luggage with an efficiency that no SUV could match. For pure, practical hauling ability, the minivan remains the undefeated king.
Ranking the Most Common and Frustrating Things About Ride-Sharing Services (Worst to Best)
Ride-sharing services are convenient but have their own set of frustrations. A common annoyance is the driver who has a strong air freshener or plays their music too loud. More frustrating is the “surge pricing” that jacks up the price during peak times. The most frustrating thing, however, is the cancellation. Whether it’s the driver canceling after accepting the ride or you being charged a fee for canceling when the driver is going the wrong way, it’s an infuriating and time-wasting experience that can leave you stranded.
I Tried to Learn How to Drive a Manual Car in a Week: My Struggles Ranked (Worst to Best)
Learning to drive a manual in a week was a herky-jerky journey. The hardest part, without a doubt, was starting on a hill. The delicate balance of clutch, gas, and brake felt like trying to juggle while riding a unicycle. A less difficult but still frustrating struggle was achieving a smooth shift between first and second gear without lurching. The easiest part to master was cruising on the highway, where shifting is infrequent. Finally getting that perfect, smooth start from a stop, however, was a moment of pure triumph.
Ranking the Most Important and Useless Information on a Car’s Dashboard (Worst to Best)
A car’s dashboard is full of information, but not all of it is crucial. The most useless information is the “eco” light that tells you when you’re driving efficiently; your right foot should already know that. More useful, but not critical, is the tachometer in an automatic car. The most important pieces of information are the speedometer, the fuel gauge, and, most importantly, the warning lights. A little red or yellow light, like the check engine or oil pressure light, is your car’s way of screaming that something is wrong and needs immediate attention.
I Compared the Cost of a DIY Oil Change vs. Going to a Mechanic for 5 Different Cars (Worst to Best)
Comparing the cost of an oil change, I found that DIY isn’t always a huge money-saver. The worst car for a DIY oil change was a German luxury car that required special tools and had a hard-to-reach filter, making the hassle not worth the small savings. Mid-range cars were straightforward but still required buying and disposing of the oil. The best car for a DIY oil change was a simple Japanese sedan. The filter was easy to access, and the cost of oil and a filter was significantly less than the quick-lube price, making it a fast, satisfying, and money-saving job.
Ranking the Most Common and Annoying Noises a Car Can Make (and What They Mean) (Worst to Best)
Cars make a symphony of annoying noises. A common but less severe noise is a squeak from the suspension over bumps. A more concerning noise is a high-pitched squeal when you apply the brakes, which is the built-in indicator telling you it’s time for new brake pads. The most alarming and potentially dangerous noise, however, is a rhythmic clunking or grinding sound that changes with your speed. This often indicates a serious problem with a wheel bearing or axle, and it’s a noise that means you should stop driving and call a tow truck immediately.
I Tried to Sell My Old Car on 5 Different Platforms: Here’s Where I Got the Best Price (Worst to Best)
Selling my old car on different platforms yielded vastly different results. The worst offer came from the instant cash offer websites, which were convenient but gave me a very low price. Trading it in at a dealership was slightly better but still below market value. The best price, by a significant margin, came from a private sale through an online marketplace. While it required more effort to take photos, write a description, and meet with potential buyers, the higher selling price made it well worth the time and hassle.
Ranking the Best and Worst Car-Related Mobile Apps (Worst to Best)
Car-related apps can be a huge help or a waste of space. The worst are the ones from car manufacturers that are slow, clunky, and rarely work when you need them to. The better apps are the simple ones that help you find the cheapest gas nearby. The best and most useful apps, however, are navigation apps that provide real-time traffic data. They have saved me countless hours stuck in traffic by intelligently rerouting me around accidents and congestion, making them an absolutely essential tool for any modern driver.
I Compared the Comfort of 10 Different Cars for Long Road Trips: A Back-Saving Ranking (Worst to Best)
For a long road trip, car comfort is king. The worst car was a sporty coupe with stiff suspension and cramped seats; after two hours, my back was screaming. The mid-range was a standard sedan that was fine but unremarkable. The undisputed champion of road trip comfort was a luxury SUV. With its supple suspension that soaked up bumps, incredibly supportive seats with heating and massage functions, and a quiet cabin, it made a ten-hour drive feel like a relaxing afternoon on my living room couch. It was a true back-saver.
Ranking the Most Common and Dangerous Distractions While Driving (Worst to Best)
Driving distractions come in many forms. A common but less severe distraction is adjusting the radio or climate controls. A more dangerous distraction is eating or drinking, as it can take your hands off the wheel and your eyes off the road. The most dangerous distraction, without any doubt, is texting. It combines all three types of distraction: visual (eyes off the road), manual (hands off the wheel), and cognitive (mind off driving). Sending a single text is like driving down the highway with your eyes closed for five seconds—a terrifying and potentially deadly gamble.
I Tried to Rent a Car in 5 Different Countries: The Hidden Fees and Scams Ranked (Worst to Best)
Renting a car abroad can be a minefield of hidden fees. The most common scam is the hard sell on ridiculously expensive insurance, even when your credit card already provides coverage. Another frequent issue is being charged for pre-existing scratches that weren’t properly documented. The worst experience was being hit with a massive, unexplained “service fee” on my credit card weeks after returning the car. The best way to protect yourself is to read the contract carefully, take photos of the car before you leave, and use a credit card with good consumer protection.
Ranking the Most Important and Overlooked Things to Keep in Your Car for Emergencies (Worst to Best)
For roadside emergencies, some items are more critical than others. An overlooked but useful item is a simple rain poncho. More important are jumper cables, but they rely on another car being present. The most important and overlooked item to keep in your car, however, is a portable jump starter. This small battery pack can start your car without needing another vehicle, and most can also charge your phone. It’s a self-sufficient lifesaver that can get you out of a sticky situation quickly and safely.
I Compared the Performance of 5 Different Engine Oils in My Own Car: The Surprising Results (Worst to Best)
My engine oil test showed that the expensive stuff isn’t always necessary. The cheapest conventional oil performed adequately but would require more frequent changes. The full synthetic oils all performed exceptionally well, providing better lubrication and longevity. The most surprising result, however, was that the mid-priced, well-known brand of full synthetic oil performed identically to the most expensive, boutique brand in a used oil analysis. This proved that for most cars, sticking with a reputable brand that meets your car’s specifications is more important than paying for exotic marketing.
Ranking the Most Impactful and Overrated Car Technologies of the Last 20 Years (Worst to Best)
The last 20 years have seen a flood of new car tech. The most overrated has been in-car navigation systems, which were quickly made obsolete by the superior, always-updated apps on our smartphones. A more impactful technology has been the backup camera, which has undoubtedly prevented countless low-speed accidents. The most impactful automotive technology of the last two decades, however, has been electronic stability control (ESC). This invisible safety net has saved countless lives by automatically preventing skids and loss of control, making it a true game-changer in automotive safety.