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It looks like tariffs – or at least the looming possibility of tariffs – are here to stay. But how do they work? And how can tariffs affect car prices? Let’s take a quick look at everything you need to know about car tariffs: meaning, how they work, and what to expect if you’re hoping to purchase or repair a vehicle.All About Car Tariffs (and How They Could Affect You)Let’s start with the basics.What are tariffs?You may have heard the word a lot lately, but what exactly does “tariff” mean?The simplest explanation is this: a tariff is a tax that is charged on something when it is imported. Think of it like the sales tax on a purchase when you check out at a store. It’s typically a percent of the total you’ve already paid on top of your bill. This money goes, as a tax, to the government.Here’s a practical example of how tariffs work.For example, let’s say you’re a ketchup maker. You live in Kentucky, and cook and bottle your ketchup in Kentucky, but you buy your tomatoes from Italy. You buy your tomatoes from the person that grows them in Italy, then pay to have them shipped to Kentucky. Once your tomatoes arrive in the United States, they’re inspected to make sure they’re safe and legal, and at the same time, you, the ketchup maker who imported them, would pay any required tariffs to the customs officers at the port. See? Just like a tax at check out. Tariffs can be applied by a government in different ways. You can tariff a specific item, items to do with a specific industry, or items from a specific place. They can be broad, blanket tariffs – for example, “all goods from Italy will be tariffed at 15%” – or more complicated and targeted. For example, you could have a rule where, after $1 billion worth of Italian tomatoes have been imported by everyone in the US who imports Italian tomatoes, the tariff percent goes up from 15% to 30%.Worried about rising prices?Here’s one price that doesn’t have to go up: your monthly car payment. Most people are overpaying on their vehicle loan. Auto Approve can help.Get a free quote to see how much you could save.What makes tariffs good or bad?Tariffs themselves are not inherently good or bad. Every country has tariffs on some goods. They can be applied to protect a specific industry – say New Jersey tomatoes were suffering because too many people were importing Italian tomatoes, adding a tax on Italian tomatoes might make it easier for New Jersey tomatoes to get more business. Italian tomatoes would become more expensive. You, as a ketchup maker, might pivot to New Jersey tomatoes to keep your prices the same. If enough people do this, New Jersey tomato farmers will have a more stable industry, and ideally, it’ll have a positive effect on their local and national economy.On the other hand, tariffs can cause problems for importers and consumers. Maybe you’re not willing to change your ingredients and choose instead to raise your prices. Maybe New Jersey tomatoes are more expensive than your Italian ones were. Or, having less competition, New Jersey producers might choose to raise their prices. Situations like these can mean tough decisions for people who make products that use imported goods, and higher prices for consumers. Similarly, say you can get your tomatoes from New Jersey for a better price (yay!), but your ketchup is packaged in Canadian aluminum bottles, and there are no aluminum bottle makers in all of the United States that can make your bottle. The aluminum comes from Canada and there’s no aluminum here to be had. What then? Do you change your packaging and your ingredients all at once? Look for ways to cut costs elsewhere, or simply raise your prices?This is why tariffs are usually used in a targeted way – to avoid hurting companies working inside of a country that have to pay them and to keep consumer prices from soaring.How tariffs affect American car pricesWith all of that out of the way, what does all of this have to do with cars? Well, right now, there are new tariffs being imposed on internationally-made vehicles and auto parts, plus some of the materials used to make vehicles. Will car prices go up due to tariffs?These new tariffs mean it’s likely that consumer costs will go up across the board in the auto industry. Here’s why:Because foreign cars and car parts will simply be more expensive to importBecause not all car parts or materials have domestic replacements availableIt’s easy to see why foreign cars will likely be more expensive. Since the vehicles are manufactured elsewhere, there’s no way to dodge the tariffs by changing to an American supplier. While a motivated company could choose to open an American plant, time and cost to start manufacturing in a new country and source domestic labor, space, parts, and materials might outweigh the benefits, versus simply attaching a higher price tag.But what about American-made cars and trucks?Very few, if any, vehicles are made entirely in America with American parts made from American vehicles. It is common for vehicles to have some parts made or manufacturing done in other countries, and materials like steel may be imported, either in their raw or ready-to-use form. Batteries for electric cars, for example, start with raw materials gathered from all over the world, like cobalt from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, nickel from Australia, and lithium from Argentina, and then are often manufactured in China before being shipped to the United States.Closer to home, auto manufacturing has crossed the border between Michigan and nearby Ontario, Canada, since the car was in its infancy. In 1904, 117 Ford Model Cs were produced in Walkerville, Ontario. General Motors – the Detroit-based manufacturing company that makes Chevrolets, Buicks, and Cadillacs, purchased one of Canada’s early domestic auto brands and used it to found General Motors of Canada in 1918, which is still the company’s Canadian subsidiary. There has hardly been a time when American auto manufacturing was not a cross-border affair – so it’s no surprise that there are still factories making different auto parts or performing assembly on either side of the US-Canada border. That means that tariffs on Canadian-made auto parts may well affect even familiar American automakers.Do tariffs affect car repairs?They can! If you need a replacement part, your costs may go up if that part or the materials used to make it come from somewhere else. If you’re just getting routine check-ups or happen to need something domestically produced, you should be in the clear.That said, not everyone will pass every cost increase directly onto the consumer purchasing that particle part or vehicle. Some may choose to raise all prices a little bit instead of some prices drastically to help spread out the tax burden. How each company or person in the supply chain chooses to handle changes will make a difference for if, how, and when the end consumer is affected.How to save money under new car tariffsThis might make it sound like costs will skyrocket, but there are things you can do to limit how much you feel these changes. First, you can choose to buy American wherever possible – or at least weigh the cost differential and any pros and cons of your options, whether you’re thinking about a new car or just purchasing new tires. While many American-made vehicles will still see some price increase, it’ll likely be less than what you’ll see on vehicles entirely manufactured abroad.Second, you can choose to focus on repairing your vehicle instead of replacing it. While a 25% tariff on a car part might raise its price, 25% of $200 is only a $50 increase, while a 25% tariff on a whole car could be tens of thousands of dollars. If you have the option to hold off and see how things shake out, you can ensure you get the best vehicle for your needs and budget.Be Prepared For How Tariffs May Affect CarsNow you know the basics of how tariffs work and why vehicle costs may be affected. However, in the end, the future can’t be perfectly predicted.Car tariffs are coming into place, but they may ultimately be changed or fine tuned in reaction to the market and industry. These tariffs may not have the predicted effects, depending on a variety of factors. But being prepared for a possible rise in cost is only prudent as the U.S. tariffs cars.Get the best auto loan for your budgetPrices may rise and fall, but getting a better deal on your car payment by refinancing with Auto Approve is just about always a good idea. Discover whether you’re eligible for a lower monthly payment in a few clicks – no commitment required.Get your free quote now.

Spring is a great time to think about making changes and refreshing your life – from spring cleaning to getting outdoors more. But it can also be a great time to check in with your finances. Right now especially, money is tight for a lot of average folks in the U.S., thanks to rising grocery and gas prices. If you have a car that is financed, you may be wondering whether a car loan refinance could help you save some cash. Here’s how you can tell if you should refinance your car loan in 2025. What is car loan refinancing?Car loan refinancing is when you get a new car loan that will replace your existing loan. Refinancing a loan will help you to get a better interest rate, change your repayment period, and change who is or is not a cosigner on the loan.When you refinance your loan you will go through the same process as you did during your initial financing. You will research lenders, apply for a loan, and select the loan that has the best terms, conditions, and car loan interest rate. And that’s it! It’s incredibly simple, and there are companies out there like Auto Approve who can help you navigate the world of refinance and help you through the application process. When you select a loan that is right for you, your new lender will pay off your old loan directly and you will begin making payments to your new lender. And voila–your loan is refinanced and you can start saving money immediately. When should you refinance your car loan?There are a number of signs that the time is right to refinance your car loan. Make sure you know the terms and conditions of your existing loan before you decide whether to refinance, as it’ll help ensure that the new loan you get will be better.Your credit score has improved.The car loan APR that you are offered is very dependent on your credit score. In fact, your credit score is the biggest factor that you have control over when it comes to securing a loan. The rate that you are offered will be based on which credit tier you are in. Your credit score will fall into one the following categories:800 to 850: Excellent740 to 799: Very good670 to 739: Good580 to 669: Fair300 to 579: Poor In general, you will be offered a good car loan interest rate if your credit score is in the very good or excellent range. As your score decreases, the interest rate that you will be offered will increase. Your credit score is based on five key factors in your personal finance: your payment history, credit utilization, length of credit history, credit mix, and new credit accounts. There are many reasons why your credit may have increased since your initial financing:You paid off some debt.You have been making consistent on time payments.Your available credit increased.You had a negative event expire.And more.Any improvement to your credit score can help save you a lot of money in interest, especially if it bumps you into a different category. But in general, if there has been an increase to your credit score, it is a good idea to think about car loan refinancing.The market rates have decreased Or Your Original Rate Was Higher Than Necessary.The refinance rate that you will be offered will be based in part on the current market rates. If the current rates are lower than they were when you initially financed your car, you may be offered a lower car loan refinance rate.Many people find that, even if little has changed in terms of their credit or the market rates, they may be able to pay less if they financed initial with a car dealer. Dealerships frequently mark up the market rate, so the financing received through them might not reflect the best pricing available to you. That’s why it’s always a good idea to check whether you could lower your rate – even if you don’t decide to move to the next step and refinance.You want to change your repayment period.Another benefit of refinancing is that you can change your repayment period. There are two ways that this can help you: it can either save you money in the longterm or buy you some breathing room in your monthly finances. If you shorten your repayment period, you will be paying off your loan quicker and you will therefore spend less money overall on interest. This will make your monthly payments higher, but you will save money in the long run. On the other hand, if you are having trouble making your payments every month, lengthening your repayment period will allow you to reduce your monthly payments. Since you will be paying the loan off over a longer period, the principal will stretch out and easily cut your payment by hundreds per month. You will likely be paying more interest over the life of the loan, but this may be worth it if it can make your monthly budget work for you. In general, if something big is happening (like a wedding or a personal emergency) and you need a little breathing room, refinancing may be a help – as well as lowering your monthly rate or overall interest, refinancing often means a few months’ break from paying while you make the switch.You are in a bad relationship with your current lender.Sometimes we end up in bad relationships. Maybe you don’t like the customer service and have had a few too many bad interactions. Maybe they have hit you with fees and penalties that you do not find fair. Maybe they have been unresponsive and unhelpful. Whatever the reason is, refinancing your car loan can help you get out of a bad spot with your current lender.You want to add or remove a cosigner. If you want to add or remove a cosigner from your current loan, refinancing your loan is going to be your best option. What do I need to refinance my car loan?In order to refinance your loan, you will need to have the following documents: Proof of employment or income (a paycheck stub or tax return)Proof of car insurance.A valid driver’s license.Proof of residence. This is required if your driver’s license and credit report address don’t match. A utility bill is usually sufficient for this.  Your car’s registration.Your vehicle’s information: model, make, year and vehicle identification number (VIN)Your current lender’s information and loan information, including the payoff amount.A photo of your car’s odometer Some lenders may require more information or paperwork, but these are the standard documents that most lenders will want. Is 2025 a good time to refinance my car loan?So is now a good time for car loan refinance? It really depends on your situation. Market rates are not exceptionally low, but they have fallen a bit since their peak in 2023-24. But more importantly, global circumstances might not matter for your unique situation. The rates might be lower than when you originally financed, or you might be eligible for a better interest rate than you were previously.  The best thing you can do is to look at your finances and determine if you could benefit from car loan refinance. Additionally, the rapidly changing car tariff situation makes planning to purchase a new car a bit confusing right now, so those who have the option to hold onto a vehicle a little longer rather than worry about car prices might be wise to do so – for example, if you’re thinking about an auto lease buyback. That’s how you can know if car loan refinancing is right for you in 2025. Think a car refinance might be right for you? Get your free, no-commitment quote from Auto Approve today to find out how much money you could be saving!GET A QUOTE IN 60 SECONDS

Want to know how you can improve your money management? If you’re looking to make smarter financial decisions this year, take a peek at these common suggestions from financial advisors. The reality is, as of 2022, the federal reserve reported that roughly half of Americans hadn’t saved for retirement at all and the combined household debt of all Americans rose to over $18 trillion in 2024.While reckless spending or avoiding thinking about money can feel good in the short term, taking control of your finances means a better quality of life and lower stress levels in the long run.Plus, better budgeting can mean more money in your pocket for the things that really matter. One way to spend smarter and save? Refinance your vehicle loan with Auto Approve and find a rate that works for you.Shore Up Your Personal Finances with These TipsEach of these suggestions comes from reliable online sources in the money management world. For personalized advice and to make sure you’re making the right moves for your unique situation, be sure to speak with a financial advisor directly.1. Save more for the futureUnless you happen to be one of the less than 9% of Americans with at least $500k saved for retirement – which is, by the way, estimated to cost about $1 million, depending on personal circumstances and spending habits – most financial professions would likely suggest you make a plan to save more as soon as possible.There are many different ways to save for emergencies and retirement – Health Savings Plans, 401Ks, Roth IRAs, simply buying bonds to grow your cash – and choosing the right one for you depends on your job. But however you do it, saving money in case something happens or to allow you to eventually retire is one of the most responsible financial actions you can take.2. Make and keep a budgetWhether you’re looking to actively save more or one of the roughly half of all Americans who’ve had to carry credit card debt within the last year, sitting down and making a budget can be a huge help.Many financial gurus recommend subscribing to the 50/30/20 rule – meaning 50% of your income goes to needs, 30% to wants, 20% to savings or paying down debt.For many people, simply taking a close look at their finances can be intimidating. However, the more you know what’s coming in and going out of your accounts, the better a handle you’ll have on your finances. Having more control over where you’re spending and when means you can choose when to splurge and on what so you get the most out of your money.3. Learn about investing – and then do it!First, you should know that every investment comes with a certain level of risk, and that you should only take the risk you’re comfortable with and can afford. That said, broadly speaking, investing – especially in relatively stable places like index funds and ETFs – is the easiest way to make sure the money you save keeps up with the market over time. To be clear, you should still keep an emergency cash fund on hand, plus enough for your expenses. But once you’ve done some saving, it’s financially wise to start thinking about putting some of those savings into a diverse portfolio of investments, whether that includes Certificates of Deposit with guaranteed interest, buying property, or entering the stock market. A good financial advisor will make sure you understand the risks of any choices you make and sound investing principles, but for now, you can read up on the basics.4. Manage debt thoughtfullyMost finance folks would agree that there is good debt and bad debt. Good debt typically includes debt that acts as an investment in your future – think student loans and mortgages. Bad debt includes things like payday loans and credit card debt – high interest borrowing that can get you caught in a debt cycle. These debts can drag you down financially without offering much benefit to you in the long term.Paying down a credit card every month and building your credit can be a good thing, but be careful about borrowing for discretionary purposes like vacations. If you’re someone who has struggled with debt, there are tons of resources available to help you figure out how to set yourself up for success in terms of paying down your debt and getting your finances back on track.5. Pay attention to your spendingAs well as keeping a broad budget, it’s always a good idea to actually audit your individual costs, especially if money is tight. You can save money at the grocery store, at the pump, and throughout your budget with a little bit of care and attention. Subscriptions and other recurring fees are one of the easiest places to get dinged by forgetting about a free trial or not noticing the creep up of a monthly bill. If you want to reduce your spending, you can look for forgotten subscriptions, see if there are ways to get your bill lowered, or cancel certain subscriptions until you need them.You may also be able to lower your monthly expenses by lowering your payments on leases and mortgages through refinancing. At Auto Approve, we work with you to find the best deal for you on your vehicle loan refinance. Then we do the paperwork for you, making it easy switch loan providers. Most people are overpaying on their auto loan, because car dealerships typically markup their rates. That means, if you got your loan through a dealership, you’re likely eligible to pay less per month with a lower rate.Get Your Finances In Tip-Top Shape With These Money Management TipsMoney matters don’t have to be difficult or intimidating. The best thing you can do for your financial health is to take a close look at what you’re earning, what you’re spending, and how you’re spending it. Once you’re intimately familiar with your personal finances, you can take charge and make sure your money is working for you, today and for years to come.Consider saving for your future, keeping a close eye on your budget, investing wisely, avoiding or paying down bad debt, and exercising discretion in your spending. With thoughtful application of these tips, guided by your financial advisor, your finances can be healthier than ever.Want to Lower your monthly car payment?Take charge of one monthly expense right now. Find out how much you could save on your car loan by refinancing with Auto Approve today. Getting a quote only takes a few minutes, costs nothing, and requires zero commitment.Get your free quote now.

What are the best podcasts to listen to on a road trip? Read on to find out!There are many things to consider when planning a road trip, but perhaps one of the most important things – short of where you’ll stay when you get where you’re going – is what you’ll listen to along the way. After all, even the most scenic drive can get monotonous after an hour or two if you don’t have something to listen to. And a great story or the perfect tunes can turn even a blah drive into a memorable adventure!For this list, we compiled some of the most recommended podcasts from around the interest, across a spectrum of genres, to help you find the perfect podcast for your taste and trip plan.The Top Podcasts For Road TripsGripping stories, hilarious jokes, fascinating science – if you want to know the best podcasts for road trips, check out this list of recommendations from a ton of different genres that’ll keep you engaged from mile 1 to your destination. Note: The podcasts on this list are generally targeted toward adult listeners and may contain strong language. For kid-friendly recommendations, scroll down!1. SerialSerial made a huge splash when it first came out, paving the way for a slew of true crime podcasts and a resurgence in true crime documentaries. If you missed it early on, you’ll see right away what made the show so popular, with gripping stories and well-put together journalism. Each season covers one nonfiction story. And if you were one of the early listeners, it might surprise you to know that the show has spun off into a whole group of podcasts under Serial Productions, including S-Town and The Coldest Case In Laramie, so if you’re not caught up, there’s plenty of audio content to fill a long drive.2. Against The RulesHosted by Michael Lewis – a journalist perhaps based known for his books Moneyball and The Big Short – Against the Rules looks at fairness and rules in American life through a range of topics season to season. Sports fans might be interested in his seasons focusing on referees, coaches, and sports gambling – all of which are well-researched and totally fascinating. Plus, since each season has roughly 8 episodes around a singular theme, a season can make for a perfect road trip binge.3. RevolutionsHistory buffs who haven’t yet delved into the world of Mike Duncan’s Revolutions are in for a treat. Now up to season 12, Revolutions features – as the name might suggest – a different historical revolution each season (with the exception of the most recent season, which is a fictional account of a sci-fi revolution in the future set on Mars!). The series starts with the English Civil Wars of the 1600s, then looks at the American, French, and Haitian revolutions, among others. Duncan has amassed a huge following for his riveting storytelling, and for road trips, it’s an especially great choice thanks to the bite-sized 30ish minute episodes, making it easy to break up over a long drive.4. Sold A StorySold A Story is one of the most recommended podcasts on internet chat forums, especially in the education space. A mix of journalism, science, and news, Sold a Story reported in 2022 on the low literacy rate among American elementary school students, and ended up, in part, inspiring a change in how we teach reading nationwide. If you’re interested in the science of how we learn and the ways education can be changed for the better or worse, it’s a great listen.5. OlogiesWhile the other podcasts so far focus on single stories over the course of a season, Ologies is made up of episodes that stand alone. Each episode of Ologies focuses on a different, highly specific scientific topic, ranging from cardiology to the sociology of reality TV to erethizonology  – that’s the study of porcupines.Each episode features an interview with an expert, conducted by host Alie Ward. And for road trippers, it’s an especially handy podcast because episodes range in length from around half an hour to over 2 hours, so you can decide how long you want to listen and find an episode that fits.We’re into auto loan refinance-ology.Your vehicle takes you where you need to go, but is it also taking money out of your pocket? Most people are overpaying on their auto loan, thanks to markups at dealerships. You may be eligible to pay less on your monthly payment and get a better rate. All it takes to find out is a few clicks – no commitment required.Get a free quote to see how much you could save.6. Ghost StoryThis 7-episode miniseries podcast combines family drama, the paranormal, and true crime as journalist Tristan Redman – who doesn’t believe in ghosts – investigates strange things that happened in his house when he was a teen. While supernatural elements come into play, Ghost Story is ultimately a story about a family facing their own ghosts. Warning that this podcast contains discussion of PTSD and domestic violence.7. Dolly Parton’s AmericaOn the other end of the emotional spectrum, Dolly Parton’s America is one the rare uplifting nonfiction narrative podcasts, and a complete delight. Fans of Dolly, the Dolly-curious, and the uninitiated will all find something to enjoy in this 9-episode “journey through the Dollyverse”  from WNYC, hosted by Jad Abumrad. Released in 2019, Dolly Parton’s America examines Parton’s life – with interviews with the woman herself – along with her impact, her work, and the people who love her.8. The Happiness LabThe Happiness Lab is inspired by the popular course taught at Yale by host and professor Dr. Laurie Santos. It looks at the science of what makes us happy and how to be happy and offers both insights into human behavior and actionable ideas that might just help you live happier. With 7 seasons and roughly 200 episodes, ranging generally from 30 minutes to an hour, you’re not likely to finish it in one road trip (unless that’s one long road trip!, but since it’s episodic rather than narrative, there’s no need to. Few podcasts in the self-help realm or otherwise offer as much potential impact as this fascinating and well-put-together series, so if you’re looking for a self-help option for your road trip, The Happiness Lab is really the only choice.9. 99% InvisibleIf you want a podcast that changes the way you see the world around you, 99% Invisible can do just that. It’s a podcast all about architecture, design, and the thought that goes into names, products, buildings, systems, and so much more. Essentially, it’s about the things we see and interact with every day but might not spend much time thinking about how they came to be. With roughly 700 episodes, the topics have ranged widely, from the invention of dynamite, to the history of Brutalist architecture, to how supply chains work (or don’t), to the naming of a Slovenian beetle. Suffice to say, if you’re interested in how the world is built, there’s something for everyone.10. The SporkfulLast but certainly not least, The Sporkful is a great podcast for cooks and food fans. It features a combination of stories on current events in the food world and interviews about food with chefs, food writers, and people interested in food, from celebrities to relative unknowns – like Weird Al, Chef Bobby Flay, or a Catholic priest who moonlights as a mixologist.Generally lighthearted and always informative, The Sporkful is hosted amiably by Dan Pashman and has around 150 episodes ready for your next long drive – whether that’s a Guy Fieri-inspired road trip or a pilgrimage to a local farm. It’s a great listen for anyone curious about the wide world of eating.Honorable MentionsListened to all the podcasts above already? Just not finding something that sings to you? Here are a few more high quality and well-reviewed podcasts to consider across a wide variety of genres.I Am Not A MonsterSomeone Knows Something Personally: Toy Soldier S-TownThe MothRadioLabRevisionist HistoryCautionary TalesHow Did This Get Made?Who Shat At My Wedding?My Dad Wrote A PornoSmartlessThe Screenwriting LifeEverything CookbooksThis American LifeWait Wait Don’t Tell MeStuff You Should KnowAnd as a bonus, if you just want a delightful half hour listen, check out Towel of Song from CBC’s The Doc Project.Kid-Friendly Road Trip Podcast RecommendationsLooking for some of the best podcasts for children on a road trip? Here are a few popular and delightful options:Story PiratesSmash Boom BestGreeking OutCircle RoundWow in the WorldAmerica’s Test Kitchen for KidsNoodle LoafABC Kids (Australia)And Those Are Some of The Best Podcast Options for Your Next Long DriveThese podcasts are so good, they could inspire another road trip just to listen to them all! Whether you want to learn something or be transported by a great story, there’s something here for everyone. Unless of course you’d rather a good audiobook for a long drive.Road trips can take a long time. Refinancing your auto loan doesn’t have to.When you choose to refinance your vehicle with Auto Approve, we help you find the right deal for your unique situation, then do the paperwork for you. It’s easy – all it takes is a few minutes of your time to help you pay less on your auto loan.Get your free quote now.

You probably wear one every time you’re in a car, but how much do you really know about seat belts?The very first safety belt was invented in the 1800s, but seat belts weren’t a required accessory in cars until the late 1960s, and laws mandating seat belt usage didn't arrive for another 20 years. And they weren’t exactly popular. In fact, regulations that required the automotive industry to provide seat belts were initially fought by the Reagan administration! Today, however, seat belt usage in the United States is around 92% and seatbelts are believed to save around 15,000 American lives per year.In this article, we’ll take a look at the humble seat belt: how seat belts work, seat belt history, and the safety statistics for seat belt usage today.(And yes, according to AP Style, it’s “seat belt” – two words!)Your Complete Guide to Seat BeltsSeat belts are everywhere. But why do we have to wear them, how do they work, and where did they come from? Read on to learn more about this life-saving device.Seat Belts: Essential FactsLet’s start with the basics. Seat belts are usually made up of:Anchors, the places where the seat belt is securely attached to the carWebbing, the actual fabric belt itself (or belts), usually made from a strong and elastic tightly woven polyesterBuckle(s), the socket and tongue system that secure the webbing around the seat occupantRetractor(s), the mechanism that controls the amount of webbing in use and its fit, sometimes equipped with a pre-tensioner that reacts to sudden pulls and locks the belt in place for safetyGenerally, seat belts are classed by “points” – meaning anchors, the places where the belt is attached to the vehicle. You may have seen a few different kinds of seat belts around. The seatbelts on planes are typically two-point lap belts, variations of which are also sometimes still seen in the rear seats of older vehicle models. These seat belts are attached to the vehicle at two points, one on either side of your hips, thus the name.The most ubiquitous seatbelts in the United States, however, are what are called three point seat belts – think car seat belts with both a lap and shoulder (sash) strap, meeting together at one point with a buckle. These three-point belts – first invented by engineer Nils Bohlin for Volvo in the 1950s – are legally mandated by the U.S., U.K., and Canada, among others, for their improved safety.That said, seat belt types don’t end at three points! If you’ve ever watched NASCAR or fastened a child’s car seat, you might be familiar with 4, 5, and 6-point belts, and some aerial artists even use a 7-point system to make sure they’re protected from falls.How Seat Belts WorkThinking back to physics class, you might remember that an object in motion tends to stay in motion. In an accident, if your car hits something and suddenly stops, your body – if not attached to the car – will continue moving forward. Many of the worst injuries and fatalities on the road come when a person is ejected from the vehicle or hits the dashboard or vehicle ceiling. While seat belts might not be perfect at preventing all injuries, they significantly reduce the risk of serious injury or death by holding a person in place.Interestingly, Nils Bohlin, the Volvo engineer who invented the 3 point seat belt, had previously been employed in aviation as an engineer working on systems for safely ejecting from fighter jets. He applied many of the same principles of motion when he was charged with making vehicles safer.You may be overpaying on your auto loanCar dealerships mark up their prices, leaving you paying more than you need to be. It’s easy to find out how much money you could save with a better rate and lower car payment through Auto Approve. All it takes is a few clicks – no commitment required. Better safe than sorry, right?Get a free quote to see how much you could save.Seat Belt History The First Seat BeltsAs mentioned above, the very first safety belt was arguably invented in the early 1800s. Sir George Cayley, an English aerial pioneer who designed the first successful glider to carry a human being, included a rudimentary harness on the glider. The line, however, from that harness to today’s ubiquitous seat belts is not a straight one. While Cayley may have been the first to think strapping in made safety sense as new vehicles developed, his idea didn’t catch on like wildfire. Seat belts don’t appear again until, separately, a New Yorker named Edward J. Claghorn patented an idea for a harness for taxi passengers in 1885, and it wasn’t until the 1920s that similar devices came into the public consciousness when race car pioneer Barney Oldfield commissioned a parachute manufacturer to create a system to strap him into his vehicle for the Indy 500.Even then, seatbelts remained deeply unpopular. According to AAA, there was a belief at the time that it was safer to be ejected from the vehicle, and car manufacturers worried that too many safety features would imply that their vehicles weren’t safe to drive.For those reasons, it wasn’t until Nils Bohlin invented the three-point belt – much as we know it today, with one continuous belt to protect both the upper and lower body, attached by a single buckle – that seat belts really took off.Seat Belts As We Know ThemBohlin’s three-point belts improved vehicle safety greatly and started to become commonplace in some parts of the world. This expansion was greatly aided by the fact that Bohlin and Volvo decided to give the design for the seat belt away for free, making it available to all vehicle manufacturers in the late 1950s.In 1961, Wisconsin became the first U.S. state to require seat belts be installed in the front seats of cars, and in 1968, some sort of belt in the front seat was a federal requirement. But that’s not the end of the story, by far! It might be strange now to think of, but as recently as the 1970s and ‘80s, seat belts were controversial and faced legal challenges in the United States. The Reagan administration tried to turn the tide on regulations requiring manufacturers to include seat belts, revoking the existing regulations. In an unexpected twist, it was insurers who sued to get the seat belt requirements reinstated in the interest of passenger safety. They won their case in the Supreme Court, and seat belts became a required part of each new vehicle produced or sold in the United States.From there, states began rolling out different regulations requiring drivers and passengers to wear their seat belts, starting with New York mandating those in the front seat of a vehicle wear a seat belt or face a fine. These laws were seen by some as government overreach and an infringement on personal freedoms, but as study after study showed that belts reduced the risk of fatalities, head injury, and other serious injuries, public opinion came around.Today, every state except New Hampshire has some sort of law on the books requiring seat belt usage, though details, enforcement, and possible consequences vary.Seat Belt Safety StatisticsFor many people, the biggest question is. Do seat belts actually make you safer? And the answer is a resounding yes.According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, part of the US Department of Transportation, in 2017 alone, seat belts saved 14,955 lives and could have saved 2,549 more.Here are a few more key facts from the NHTSA:Being ejected from a car in a crash is almost always fatal.If you’re not buckled up, air bags not only won’t be enough to protect you, but can do serious injury. Air bags are designed to be used in conjunction with seat belts – not instead of them.Improper seat belt use – using only one part of the belt or placing it under your arm – is less effective and can be dangerous.Most importantly, correctly wearing your three-point seat belt when in a passenger car reduces your risk of fatal injury by 45% and of moderate or critical injury by 50%. These numbers are even higher for light truck drivers and passengers (60% and 65%, respectively).In Short, Seat Belts Make Riding In A Car SaferNow you know so much more about the what, how, and why of seat belt safety! Make sure you buckle up on your next ride, whether it’s a quick trip to the grocery store or an epic road trip, and encourage your loved ones to do the same.Put more money in your pocket for the things that matterFind out how much you can save by refinancing your vehicle with Auto Approve. Getting a quote is easy. We’ll help you find the best deal for you, then handle the paperwork for you.Get your free quote now.

Looking for ways to save money on groceries? You’re not alone. Lots of people are on the hunt for tricks to spend less this year.Grocery prices are up, and for a wide number of reasons – from supply chain challenges to corporations raising prices to changes in international trade. But the why doesn’t matter when you’re in the check out line – only how to lower your bill.Fortunately, there are many simple ways you can pay less for groceries in 2025, despite higher price tags on many essentials.In this article, we’ve gathered 8 simple tips and tricks you can apply right away to start reducing your grocery store costs.8 Tips For Saving Money at the Grocery StoreWhile not all of these ideas will work for everyone (and there will likely be some things here you’re already doing!), there should be something here for anyone wondering how to save money on groceries in 2025.1. Plan, Plan, PlanThe number one most important thing to do when trying to spend less at the grocery store is plan ahead. Planning allows you to create a budget and stick to it.Make a meal plan for the week and then a grocery list based on that meal plan. Doing this can help avoid unnecessary or splurge purchases and stay on track at the grocery store. Planning for several days in a row can also help ensure you’re getting enough variety, not planning too many expensive items in one week, and not overestimating how much cooking you can handle.Being realistic when planning can help you stay on track. If you know one day will be busy, plan a simple and quick recipe for that day. If you usually get take away several nights a week, choose one night to pick-up pre-made food, or include frozen meals in your planning. Yes, making food from scratch will generally cost less than pre-made or take away options, but you’re allowed to work up to it. It’s ok if you don’t turn into Julia Child overnight – the idea is to make small, sustainable steps toward spending less in the long term!Pro Tip: Finding that your meal plans are still leaving you over budget? The problem might be a too-expensive menu at the foundation. Consider adding more affordable dishes to your recipe rotation.2. Keep Track Of What You HaveBetween 30 and 40 percent of food in the US turns into food waste, including 31 percent at the customer and retail level. That means a lot of us are buying more food than we eat. Obviously, that means there’s room for improvement in how we collectively shop and use the food we buy.The first way to combat food waste is by making sure you know what’s already in your fridge and cabinets. If one dish will only use part of something perishable, make sure your menu for the week uses up the other half of it. If multiple people in the house buy groceries, keep a shared grocery list and update it regularly to avoid double buying. And, to save money, occasionally do an audit – of your fridge, freezer, and dry and canned goods – and make sure to work what you already have into your menu.You’ll pay less at the store, and you might find a new recipe or combination of things you like!3. Buy What You’ll UseOn a similar note, you can avoid food waste (and tossing hard-earned dollars in the trash!) by buying only what you need and know you will use. If you’re someone who (like your humble blog writer) can only really plan 3 or 4 days out before you start getting restless, don’t buy 7 days of groceries knowing you’ll likely deviate from your plans. Buy 3 or 4 days of ingredients and make another trip later in the week. If two smaller trips can work for your schedule, you’ll be more likely to use what you buy – and, as a bonus, your fruit, vegetables, dairy, and proteins will be fresher when you get to them.This also applies to buying in bulk or buying smaller containers of things. Buy what you’ll use. That means, if you know you use a lot of something and you can get it cheaper per unit by buying in bulk, do it! If you know you use only a little of something in the course of a year, buying a smaller package might make sense. While it’s true that buying in bulk usually saves money, when things are tight, if you almost never use balsamic vinegar and just ran out, it’s ok to pay $5 for a small bottle instead of $9 for one twice the size – sometimes holding onto $4 now is more precious than paying one less dollar in six months or a year.Buying 6 giant bottles of olive oil might mean paying less for olive oil by volume, but if it costs $70 that you can’t now use on other things, have you made the right choice for your budget?4. Look Out For DiscountsThis is a simple solution, but no less effective!There are tons of ways to get discounts on food. You can join store membership programs that allow you to collect points or qualify you for member prices. You can shop weekly sales and collect coupons. And you can join programs designed to combat food waste to connect you to stores with excess products or food they think will expire before it sells, like Olio, FlashFood, and Too Good To Go.Leaving a little flexibility or using weekly sale flyers to make your meal plan can help you pay less for your ingredients and meals.Looking for another way to put more money in your pocket?Consider refinancing your vehicle with Auto Approve. Many people are paying more than they need to on their monthly car payment, thanks to dealer markups and volatile interest rates. Discover how much you could save on your monthly car payment in just a few minutes.Get your free quote now.5. Don’t Be Afraid To Get GranularPrice comparing every item you shop might feel maddening at first, but if you’re not putting a lot of thought into the brands you choose or how much of something you buy, now’s a good time to start. While 70 cents here and 30 cents there might seem too small to be worth considering, you can shift your total costs for the year significantly by making those small choices over and over.Sure, sometimes the extra dollar comes with a huge jump in quality, but in many cases, store brands and generic brands are essentially identical to their pricier counterparts. If you have wiggle room, it’s generally best to pick your battles so you never feel like you’re depriving yourself. Financial psychologists suggest that using up too much self control on little things can make you more likely to splurge on something bigger over time.Pro tip: If you go looking, most grocery stores have a scale for customer use in the produce aisle, so if you want to get extra nitpicky, you can start weighing your fruits and vegetables to make sure you stay under budget.6. Branch Out From RoutineAnother way to save money at the grocery store is to look for lower cost options in new places. This can mean trying a vegetable or protein you haven’t made before from your regular store, or trying out new stores. Price comparing your favorite items at competitor stores can help you find deals – and so can branching out to specialty stores. Try visiting local markets that tailor to specific international or regional cuisines, retailers’ cooperatives, or small stores and markets that work directly with local producers. You might find that there are things that cost much less there, and you might find new affordable ingredients that excite you!7. Buy Local & SeasonalOn a similar note, while farmers’ markets have a reputation for organic produce and higher prices, you can sometimes find great deals on produce when dealing directly with the people that grow and harvest it. Keeping track of what’s in season and abundant can give you a clue as to what’s likely to be most affordable.Plus, with prices to import goods from other countries potentially fluctuating, you can avoid sticker shock by keeping track of what’s grown in your area and planning to buy and eat what’s readily available and unaffected by any potential shifts.8. Never Shop Hungry!Last but certainly not least, this is old wisdom, but it holds true. Don’t go to the grocery store hungry! Simply don’t do it! It’s a recipe for coming home with a pile of unplanned snacks and a half baked dinner plan.And Those Are The Best Ways To Save Money on GroceriesNow you know how to save money at the grocery store – all that’s left is to put these tips to work. Did you find something in here that inspired you to get creative with your menu planning and shopping?Get more money for groceries with Auto Approve.If you want a little more wiggle room in your food budget, consider an auto refinance. Auto Approve helps you find the best possible rate for you. Then, once you choose your new loan, we handle the paperwork – it’s easy.It only takes a few minutes to find out how much you can save.Get your free quote now.

Looking for one of the best road trip movies ever to watch? We’ve got you covered.Whether you’re hitting the road yourself or just dreaming of a cross country drive, this list of some of the best road trip movies of all time can help you get in a road trip state of mind.Here at Auto Approve, we love cars – even fictional ones. From wacky hijinks to serious dramas, kids movies to zombie flicks, this list of some of the top rated road trip movies according to critics and audiences alike. (And if you want a no drama way to refinance your vehicle and pay less on your auto loan, we’re here to help!)What to Watch: Best Road Trip MoviesWhile not all of these movies will be to everyone’s taste, there should be something here for everyone.1. Little Miss Sunshine (2006)One of the rare movies equally beloved by both critics and audiences, this quirky comedy about a family driving across the US together in a VW bus to support a little girl who makes the finals of a beauty pageant is heart-warming, poignant, and funny.2. Nomadland (2020)Nomadland is a visually striking drama about a woman, played with depth and subtlety by Frances McDormand, who loses everything and moves into an RV. Based on a true story, it was a critical darling when it was released in 2020, and while the quiet pacing may not be for everyone, it’s a stunning portrait of a difficult life juxtaposed with incredible views of the American West.3. Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)This post-apocalyptic action movie may not exactly inspire your next road trip, but it’s certainly a thrilling and well-made action adventure. The movie follows a warrior (Charlize Theron) in a tyrannical society leading a daring escape and trying to drive herself and her companions to safety in a lengthy high speed chase.Got a bad rate on your car loan? It’s not the end of the world.Most people are paying too much on their auto loan, thanks to dealer markups. If you want to lower your monthly car payment, Auto Approve can help find your best possible deal. And if you decide you’re ready to refinance, we do the paperwork for you.Get a free quote to see how much you could save.4. Paper Moon (1973)With a 91% critics score on Rotten Tomatoes and 94% audience score, Paper Moon is a gem of a movie. It’s a crime comedy with a heart that was released in 1973 but shot in black and white and styled to look like an old Hollywood classic. It stars real life father and daughter Ryan O'Neal and Tatum O'Neal as a con-man tasked with bringing a little girl to relatives after the death of her mother, only to find that the little girl has a natural knack for confidence tricks.5. Smokey and The Bandit (1977)While perhaps less of a critical darling, no road trip movie list would be complete without Smokey and the Bandit. This classic action trucker comedy – which was a box office hit, to be clear, despite lukewarm reviews – follows notorious truckers Bandit and Snowman (played by Burt Reynolds and Jerry Reid) as they attempt to smuggle 400 cases of Coors beer from Texas to Atlanta.6. Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987)Arguably the only major Thanksgiving movie, Planes, Trains and Automobiles is an annual rewatch for many. It’s a deeply goofy comedy with a heart of gold starring superstar funnymen Steve Martin and John Candy as two strangers who do everything to make it to Chicago for Thanksgiving.7. The Muppet Movie (1979)If you’ve ever heard Kermit the Frog sing about a rainbow connection, then you already know a little bit about The Muppet Movie. The first movie starring the iconic Muppet characters, this road trip movie takes Kermit and Fozzie across the U.S. (and perhaps briefly Canada) in search of fame and fortune in Hollywood. Along the way, they meet new friends, face dangers, and even, in the case of a particular lady pig, fall in love.8. Chef (2014)This uplifting dramedy was a passion project of Jon Favreau, who wrote, produced, directed and starred – quite the feat! Chef tells the story of a chef at a fine dining restaurant in Los Angeles who clashes with the restaurant’s owner, quits in spectacular fashion, and ends up traveling to Miami after a viral meltdown. There, he’s given a broken down old food truck, which he restores with the help of family and community, then sets out on the road to drive back to Los Angeles.9. Sideways (2004)Sideways is a critically acclaimed road trip film in the tradition of smart but depressing dramedies about midlife. It follows two men in their forties going on a two-man bachelor party weekend in California’s wine country. Thomas Haden Church stars as a washed up actor about to be married and Paul Giamatti plays his friend, a divorced teacher and unpublished author.10. Zombieland (2009)Last but certainly not least, Zombieland is a comedic horror movie set in a future where a zombie plague has taken hold, starring Woody Harrelson, Jesse Eisenberg, Emma Stone, and Abigail Breslin. They play survivors of the plague who work together to drive to a rumored safe zone in California.Special MentionsThese are the 10 films we selected as the best road trip movies, but there are many more great movies (and a few beloved movies of dubious quality) that feature a road trip. Here are a few that didn’t make the cut but are still well worth a watch if they’re up your alley:Will and HarperRoad TripCrossroadsRoad HouseConvoyThe Blues BrothersAnd Those Are Our Top Movies With Road TripsMake some popcorn and hit the couch with your next favorite road movie – and who knows, you might just find yourself inspired to take off for an adventure of your own! After all, there are plenty of great reasons to make your next vacation a road trip. Road trips offer great scenery and activities close to home, and can offer a great getaway at a lower cost. And who doesn’t want to save a few bucks?If you want more money in your pocket, consider refinancing with Auto Approve.Auto Approve can help you find savings on your monthly car payment. Simply fill out our no-commitment form, and in a matter of minutes, find out how much you could save with a lower payment, lower rate, or both.Get your free quote now.

What are some of the most common things people forget to budget for?Whether you’re putting together a household budget for the first time, or are old hat at budgeting, there’s always something that gets missed. If you’re looking for tips to make this year your best yet, financially speaking, make sure you have these 5 commonly forgotten expenses in your plan. Getting hit with a missed expense can throw your whole budget out of whack. Fortunately, if you include the following 5 items in your budget, you’ll be better prepared than most.Let’s take a look.5 Common Expenses You Might Have Forgotten In Your BudgetMaybe you’ve already planned for all of these items, if you’re a pro. But odds are, there’s at least one of these you’ve forgotten or skipped in your budget.1. Yearly subscription renewalsAnnual fees are one of the toughest expenses to remember and anticipate, since they only come around once a year. Keeping track of all your subscriptions – from Amazon Prime to Netflix to cloud storage – can be tricky, especially as more and more parts of our lives move to as-a-service models, where fees are deducted automatically each year. Doing an audit of all your annual subscriptions and when they’ll renew can help you stay on top of your budget throughout the year. And, as a bonus, discovering forgotten subscriptions and cancelling them before they renew can help you save serious bucks.There are a few ways to stay on top of this. Many banks’ online platforms have tools to help you identify recurring expenses. You can also use a service, like Rocket Money or similar programs, or you can take a DIY approach and make a list of all your services and subscriptions and add calendar reminders for yourself before they renew.2. Expected and unexpected vehicle costsEven for serious long term budgeters, vehicle-related costs are often named among the most commonly forgotten or underestimated expenses.Vehicle costs to build into your budget include:Car registration fees and inspectionsEmissions testsLicense renewalsMaintenance costsToll passesParkingBudget for unexpected tickets and finesMost people consider gas, insurance, and monthly car payments, but might forget some of the auxiliary costs of vehicle ownership. While some of these costs are bigger than others, they can really add up over the course of the year. Vehicle registration renewal fees in particular always seem to sneak up, don’t they? Are you paying too much on your monthly car payment?Thanks to dealership markups, many Americans are paying more than they need to be paying monthly. If you’re one of those people, refinancing can help you save money right away. Don’t overpay for your vehicle.Discover what you could be saving with Auto Approve.3. Special eventsAnother commonly missed expense category for even seasoned budgeters is special events and celebrations. This can include weddings, baby showers, birthdays, anniversaries, retirement parties, and so on. While you’ll likely know if you yourself will be having any of these this year, it’s everyone else you have to remember to account for. You may not be able to predict whether any of your loved ones will have a milestone this year, but earmarking a little money for gifts, travel, special occasion clothing, and so on can make it less of a shock to your wallet if a beloved cousin or former coworker pops up with a big announcement and an invitation.4. Fun & entertainmentYes, you read that right! You have to budget for things that make you happy. And that’s not just a fun suggestion – it’s backed by financial psychology. If you don’t include any splurges or small joys in your budget, you’ll be more likely to go off track with a big splurge at some point in the year.It’s better to give yourself little treats – even if you’re on a tight budget – and build them into your financial planning than rely on maintaining exceptional self-control. Self-control is sort of like an elastic band – the further you stretch it and the longer you keep it stretched, the more likely it is to break or snap. Plus, everyone deserves a little happiness! Budgets are ultimately blueprints for your life for a given time period, and you want to make sure you’re building a good life.5. General contingencyWhen producers budget for film and theater, one of the first things they learn is to add roughly 10% of the total projected budget for general contingency. Contingency is basically your margin of error to account for things going wrong, budgeting errors, prices going up, emergencies, last minute splurges, anything that could cause you to go over budget.The same applies to personal finance. As this list demonstrates, there are simply so many things you can’t predict in a given year. Your car could break down. You could forget to cancel National Geographic (guilty). Your cousin could get married or your favorite professor could retire. While trying to be precise with your budget is always a good idea, recognizing that anything can happen and building it into your financial plan can give you peace of mind and help you stay afloat.Contingency can overlap with your emergency fund (you remembered to include an emergency fund in your budget, right?), but is really something else entirely. You don’t want to be left with less money for surprise medical expenses because the cost of an annual subscription went up and your sister is having a baby! Contingency is for all the little surprises you can’t anticipate.And those are 5 of the most commonly forgotten expense items for personal budgets.Did you find anything you’d missed? Are you ready to put the finishing touches on your next budget? Inflation is up and costs are high for the average American, but with great planning, you can stay financially solvent and live well.Want a little more wiggle room in that budget? Auto Approve may be able to help you save on your monthly car payment. All it takes is a few minutes to find out what you can save by refinancing, and Auto Approve will take it from there. When you refinance with Auto Approve, we help make sure you get the best deal for your unique situation – and we handle the paperwork.Get your free, no-commitment quote today.

Whether you’re just buying your first car or thinking about swapping out the tires on an old favorite, there’s a lot to know about tires.Your tires can make all the difference in how you handle the road and even whether you make it to your destination without issue. If something goes wrong with a tire, it can mean a tire change or even a breakdown.In this guide, we’ll look at how tires work and what they’re made of, the most common tire types, essentials of tire maintenance, and the basics to consider when it’s time to shop for new tires.Ready to become an expert on all things tires?Buying and Maintaining Tires: What You Need to KnowWe spend a lot of time thinking about our cars – picking a car, then gas, parking, maintenance, but tires rarely get as much thought. Let’s take a look at the basics.Car Tire BasicsStarting from the very beginning, tires are the rubber cushions filled with compressed air that go around the wheels of a vehicle.Tires are a necessary component of every car, truck, and SUV. The friction created by tire treads is part of the process that allows a vehicle to move forward, so having the right tires and making sure they’re in good shape is important for the proper functioning of your car.Typically, when you buy a car, it comes with tires and a spare. The cost of these tires is included in the price you pay overall for the car. If you’re buying a brand new car, it should come with brand new tires that are standard for your vehicle model. You may also be given the option, when buying from a dealership, to upgrade to specialty tires. If you’re buying a used car, it’s likely that you’re getting used tires and buying them as-is.As you drive your car over the years, your tires can start to wear down. This wearing down can be accelerated by aggressive driving, harsh road conditions, and other factors. Knowing what to look for and when to repair or replace your tires is a key part of long term car maintenance.Key Types of TiresStart by getting to know your tires and learning about the different kinds of tires that might be available to you. For example, many people who live in wintry climates change their tires out in the winter for special winter tires, both to preserve the standard tires and improve their vehicle’s road safety in icy and snowy weather.The treads on the tire are the part of the tire that make contact with the road, and varying treads and tire sizes make for different road capabilities, from helping you move faster to helping you navigate mud and snow. Broadly, tire types vary in:Tire size and vehicle fitRubber flexibility or durabilityTread shape and tread sizeHere are all the primary kinds of tires available, and why you might want them (or not).All-Season TiresAll-season tires are the workhorse of the tire world. They’re the tires your vehicle is most likely to come with, unless you’re driving a vehicle specifically designed for off-road driving, like a Jeep Wrangler.These tend to be relatively affordable and long lasting, and the gold standard for just a standard set of tires. All-season tires come in different sizes and are available for each vehicle category: car, SUV, and truck.High Performance TiresThere are a few different tire types that fall under the high performance (HP) umbrella, but broadly these are tires designed for sports cars and similar luxury vehicles. They have high handling capabilities but are more expensive and tend to need to be replaced more frequently than standard all-season tires. They aren’t generally available for trucks and SUVs, but may fit some sedans.They are unique for their softer rubber and grippier treads than standard tires.There are summer, all-season, and winter versions of high performance tires, and they generally offer a happy medium between all-season and ultra high performance (UHP) tires for second vehicles that won’t be in much inclement weather.Summer high performance tires are not designed for rain or snow and will not be safe in more than a light rain. All-season high performance tires could hypothetically be used on a family vehicle, but would probably create higher annual tire costs. Winter performance tires are designed to be the winter equivalent of HP and UHP tires for vehicles designed for those tire styles and have improved cold weather grip..These are not tires designed for daily use or people who live in harsh climates, and could become unsafe or need to be replaced several times a year if used incorrectly. However, for those with a sports car that’s used for recreational purposes and the budget to splurge for a tire to match, they can be a great choice.Ultra High Performance (UHP) TiresUltra high performance tires, also known as track tires or racing slicks, are tires specifically designed for driving fast under optimal road conditions in upscale sport and racing vehicles. They tend to have the highest speed ratings available, and can usually perform in wet weather, but aren’t designed for snow and ice and require compromise in ride comfort and tire durability. UHP tires are among the most expensive tire options and need frequent replacement. They aren’t generally a practical choice, even for second vehicles, except under very specific circumstances.There are no or few true UHP winter tire options, so those that use UHPs and want to take a vehicle out in the winter will need performance winter tires, which have a lower speed rating but better cold weather grip. That said, most people who own the expensive and high maintenance vehicles that go with UHPs probably won’t want to take them out in the snow too often anyway!All-Terrain and Specialty Truck TiresOn the other end of the spectrum, there are all-terrain tires, which are usually large and designed only to fit SUVs and trucks capable of going off-road.All-terrain tires are specifically designed to be usable both on pavement and on dirt roads or for light off-roading. They are sort of like the hiking boots of tires – they have bigger, deeper treads designed to work in more road conditions, but aren’t so specialized they can’t work for general use. They would be the standard tire option for someone with a Jeep Wrangler or Ford F-150 or similar vehicles.All-terrain tires also have enough traction to drive in light snow, and for heavy vehicles can sometimes be sufficient to get you through the winter, but generally aren’t considered sufficient for icy conditions. That means, if you live somewhere that regularly gets very icy or snowy, winter tires may still be necessary, but it’ll depend on your vehicle and region.Off-road tires are the next step up from all-terrain for those who live most of their lives in areas with dirt roads or are regularly driving off pavement. They are more puncture resistant than standard tires and have large, deep treads ideal for getting through mud, sand, and gravel. That said, they’re not designed to be driven on paved roads or at highway speeds. They’re a specialty tire only really necessary for people who need to be able to drive on uneven, unpaved terrain more than they drive on pavement.There are other kinds of specialty tires, usually only used on trucks and off-roading vehicles. The primary others are mud tires and heavy duty tires. Mud tires are what they sound like – they have wide blocks and treads designed to release any debris and keep you moving in mud and sand conditions. They’re not as good for crawling over rocks and differ from off-road tires in the way they squeeze and release any mud stuck in the treads.Heavy duty tires are tires that can take more weight than other tires for those that plan to haul trailers or max out their truck’s payload. Heavy duty tires are unique among specialty truck tires  in that they’re generally good for daily driving and highway driving and tend to offer good durability and longevity.Winter TiresWinter tires, sometimes called snow tires, are tires around the level and style of all-season tires, except that they’re specifically designed to make it easier and safer to drive in icy, snowy, and very cold conditions. There are winter tires for every size and vehicle style, car, SUV and truck. What makes winter tires unique is that they have better grip in inclement weather and are made with a specially formulated rubber that stays pliable below freezing. Because of these factors, winter tires aren’t as good in warm weather on clear roads, and should be changed in and out seasonally.Anyone who lives somewhere that typically has below freezing temperatures all winter long should seriously consider having winter tires for the cold season.  Tired of paying too much for your car?Most people are paying more than they need to on their monthly car payment. If you’re one of them, Auto Approve can help you save money and lower your payments by helping you find the best available deal for you. Find out if you’re eligible for a better rate with a free, no-commitment quote. All it takes is a few minutes of your time. If you find a better rate, we handle the paperwork, with no markup.Get a quote now.Essential Tire MaintenanceNow that you know about the types of tires, how do you keep them in good condition?Here are the key steps you can take to keep your tires in good condition.Maintain air pressure.Get your tires rotated.Don’t use the wrong tires for your driving needs.Repair minor punctures and penetrations, and replace when necessary.How To Know When It’s Time to Get New TiresThere are two key things to think about to help you decide if you need to replace your tires.The first is general wear. As you use your tires, the treads will wear down. As the treads erode, the tires become less effective. Too little tread and your tire may eventually have trouble gripping the road, which makes it harder to control the vehicle. At a certain point of wear, the tires are no longer safe and need to be replaced. AAA recommends replacing tires when the treads hit 1/8th of an inch, because braking distances will start increasing at that thickness.The second is the tire’s ability to hold air. If a tire has been punctured or penetrated, you may be able to use a repair kit to temporarily patch minor issues, but ultimately, you’ll likely need to replace at least that one tire. If your tires are relatively new, you may be able to get away with replacing just one tire (rule of thumb is if the treads are still 30% or less worn down). If your tires are more worn but you want to save money, you can sometimes get away with replacing two tires and leaving the other pair until they’re worn down enough that you have to replace them (especially if you use two-wheel drive). Most tire experts, however, recommend replacing all 4 tires any time you need to replace one, to ensure even wear and avoid problems down the line.Other things to look out for include:Tire sidewall cracksUneven wear (which could indicate an alignment issue)Shaking, vibrations, or bumpy sensationsBulges and bubbles in the tire rubberBuying New TiresWhen it’s time to buy new tires, here are a few things to look at and consider.First, you’ll need to make sure any tires you consider will fit your vehicle. Most tire sellers will ask for your vehicle’s exact make and model.From there you’ll want to consider:What type of tire you want and for what purpose (thinking about the types of tires referenced earlier in this guide)Speed rating (the letter grade given to indicate the maximum speed at which the tire will function optimally over time)Load index and range (the tire’s carrying capacity, if there’s a change you’ll want to transport heavy loads – especially relevant for truck owners)Mileage warranty – any tire purchase you make should come with an expected mileage  before they’ll need replacement, and some tire sellers will sell tires at different price points based on this numberPrice point – specialty tires may cost more or need more frequent replacement, so make sure you have the full picture and are happy with the price before making any tire purchasesThere are many reputable tire makers and sellers, but you may also want to consider buying from stores that will also cover maintenance and that you’re happy having a long term relationship with.And That’s Everything You Need to Know About TiresHas this changed your mind about what type of tire you want or need for your vehicle? Are your tires in good condition? You’re now set with tons of information to keep your wheels rolling for years to come. What you choose to do with it is up to you.Tire changes can be expensive. If you’d like more money in your pocket – for any reason – why not lower your car payment with Auto Approve?Auto Approve makes refinancing your vehicle simple. And, because dealerships mark up their rates, there are many people right now who qualify for a better rate and a lower monthly payment. Find out what you could save with a free quote today.

Road trips make a great vacation, and in the past few years, they’ve seen a huge surge in popularity. But why?Road trips have been part of the American consciousness since the car first started becoming popular in the 1920s, but hit a high point in popularity in the 1960s and ‘70s when every American family seemed to be hitting the road for family fun (or something like it). While there was a dip in the popularity of road trips in the decades since – many of the sights and amenities Baby Boomers and Gen X folks might associate with the road trips of their youth have long since closed – today, road trips are seeing a resurgence.A 2024 survey indicated that a whopping 75% of US travelers intended to make a road trip last summer, making it more popular for summer vacation than plane travel. The vast majority of survey respondents were heading somewhere within 250 miles of home.With road trips making such a splash among vacation planners, you might be asking, should I plan a road trip this year? Here are the top 3 reasons the answer to that question might be, “yes!”Why (and How!) to Plan A Road Trip This YearAs well as three good reasons to take a road trip in 2025, in this guide, you’ll find notes on most common road trip costs, top destinations to consider, and ideas for how to plan a road trip.More Affordable Than Hopping a PlaneLet’s face it, costs are up these days and everyone’s looking for ways to save in 2025. Gas may be expensive, but flights are frequently more expensive. Depending on where you want to go, what you want to do when you get there, and when you’re hoping to go, flying for vacation can get expensive quickly. This is especially true if you’re thinking about crossing international borders to Mexico or Canada, as international airport fees can add up quickly.If you’re a solo traveler heading somewhere far away and won’t need a car on arrival, flying might make good sense. But for families going somewhere relatively close who will need a car to get around, choosing to make your trip a road trip could save you a ton of money.A road trip, on the other hand, can be tailored to fit your budget. Other than fuel, your biggest costs are likely to be food and lodging. While it’s easy for these to add up, they’re really the base costs of getting away – and if you’re looking to get away on a shoestring budget, these can be reduced with a little smart planning.Costs to Consider When Planning a Road TripOn that note, here are the key costs to plan for when budgeting for a road trip.Gas (or Charging, for electric vehicle owners)Meals (meals en route, road snacks, and daily meals at destination)Lodging (campgrounds, motels, hotels, or vacation rentals) Entertainment and Sightseeing (especially important for kids on long drives!)TollsParkingOne word to the wise: while you can save quite a bit of cash by camping, there are still charges associated with a vacation in the woods. Depending on where you camp, you may need to pay for park passes, laundry machines, shower tokens, and other associated costs.Who doesn’t want a little more money in their pocket?Did you know that most people can lower their car payment through refinancing? Many car dealerships mark up loans so buyers pay a higher APR than they qualify for, meaning you might qualify for a lower rate, lower monthly payment, or both.Find out what you could save with Auto Approve.So Many Sights to See Right HereOther than saving money, one of the number one reasons people choose a road trip vacation is that there’s simply so much to see and do in the United States that doesn’t require hopping a plane. In terms of distance, culture, and landscape, heading to another state or region can be like going to another country – without the hassle of going through border control.From the beach to the desert to forests and mountains, there’s so much to see and do – and much of it costs little or nothing to explore. Top North American Road Trip Destinations for 2025There are so many iconic road trips across the contiguous United States (not to mention Alaska, Hawaii, and the U.S. territories!). Choosing can be daunting – but when in doubt, exploring a destination you haven’t seen yet that’s not too far from home is always a great pick.Looking for something grander that a short drive from your house? Here are 12 of the most popular, classic road trips in America:Big Sky Country roadtrip: Montana, Wyoming, and Idaho Northern Arizona & Southern UtahThe Pacific Coast Highway Washington State National Parks & WineriesSouthern Maine & Coastal New EnglandRoute 66 from Chicago to the California CoastTexas’ Bluebonnet TrailOverseas Highway through the Florida KeysSmoky/Blue Ridge Mountains of TennesseeUpstate New York’s Finger LakesColorado’s San Juan Skyway Leaf-peeping in VermontEasier to Make Happen on Your ScheduleThe best thing about planning a road trip is the infinite flexibility. When you’re in charge of when you leave and return, there’s simply a lot less stress to getting out the door. While flights and trains and buses all have a fixed schedule, going in your own car means the only schedule is yours.Plus, driving means you don’t have to worry about things like prices for trains being higher on holidays or flights being cheaper on Tuesdays. You don’t have to compromise on a day or time to save money. Of course, traffic can be better or worse on holidays or at rush hour, but when you’re dealing with your hometown, you know the patterns well enough to avoid the worst if you so choose.Simple Steps to Plan Your Next Road TripIf all that makes a road trip sound pretty good, you might be thinking about starting planning. While each road trip will be as unique as you, there are a few steps you can take to get ready and make sure you have the trip you imagine.Decide on a destination: Spend some time researching and figure out a rough plan that floats your boat.Set a schedule: Pick the days you want to leave and return and any traveling you want to do in between. Make sure anywhere you want to go will be open and has availability (some national parks need to be booked months in advance!) and take a look at the standard weather for that time period to make sure your plan makes sense.Set a budget: Sit down and decide how much you can afford to spend – and how much you want to spend – on this trip. Break your budget down into costs for fuel, food, lodging, and miscellaneous expenses like parking, tolls, park passes, and so on, making sure you have a contingency budget in case something goes awry.Get granular: Start planning out where you’ll stay and any prep you need to do for a successful trip (like making sure you have a toll pass that works where you’re going, researching restaurants, or making a packing and training list, if you want to do a serious hike). You don’t want to miss out on something big because you didn’t make a reservation or plan ahead!Get ready for your trip! Dot the “i”s, cross the “t”s, make sure you have everything you need in your car in case of emergency, and don’t forget your sunglasses!Ready to Hit the Road for Your 2025 Road Trip?A road trip can be such a joy – sun, wind, and the open road! Whether you’re staying close to home or heading cross country, a little bit of preparation and a little extra cash in your pocket just in case can go a long way.Your car can do more than take you on vacation! With a refinance, it can also help you save on your monthly bills. When you refinance with Auto Approve, we’re your advocate, helping you find the best deal for you.Get a free quote today and see how much you can save.