And German car brands also feature a long history of innovative technologies and cutting-edge engineering — advances which were subsequently adopted by other European car companies. Plus, many of these vehicles just look stellar. From supercars to SUVs, these manufacturers have made some of the models that serious gearheads covet.

A Brief History of German Car Brands

German car history began in 1870 when Nikolaus Otto and Karl Benz invented the 4-stroke internal combustion engine. These two mechanical engineers helped Germany launch into the automotive production business. By 1901, about 900 cars were being produced annually in Germany.

Today, Germany has one of the largest automotive workforces in the world. According to Worldometers, Germany is the third-largest auto manufacturing country after China and Japan. And these brands aren’t just about quantity, as they also routinely claim top-marks for quality too.

In 2021, German car brands claimed three World Car Awards, including the World Car of the Year (Volkswagen ID.4), the World Luxury Car (Mercedes-Benz S-Class), and the World Performance Car (Porsche 911 Turbo).

Top German Car Brands: The Titans, Sleepers, And Has-Beens

When most people think of German car brands, companies such as Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz obviously come to mind. While these are a few of the most well-known German car brands, there are several other manufacturers that you might not have heard of. We’ve rounded up some of the top German car brands currently in operation and a few that have, sadly, ceased production.

Audi

Audi began production in 1909. Currently headquartered in Ingolstadt, Germany, the company received its name, which means “listen” in German, from its founder, August Horch. In 1932, Audi merged with Horch, Wanderer, and DKW to form Auto Union UG. The four linked rings in the Audi logo come from these four companies. Then, in 1966, Audi became part of the German automobile giant: the Volkswagen Group.

In the United States, Audi continues to become more popular each year. They offer a wide variety of vehicles in the American market. Sedans and sportbacks include the A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8, RS 3, RS 7, S3, S4, S5, S6, and S7.

They also sell numerous crossovers and SUVs including the Q3, Q5, Q7, Q8, and e-Tron. As far as their coupes and convertibles, they are known for creating sporty, performance vehicles including the TT and R8 with special runs like the Panther Edition R8 aimed at Audi enthusiasts.

Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz has been in business since 1926. The car manufacturer operates out of Stuttgart, Germany and was founded by Gottlieb Daimler who also worked with Karl Benz. Since its inception, Mercedes-Benz has had a reputation of being a manufacturer of luxury cars. The Mercedes-Benz logo has become synonymous with quality, emblazoning some of the best cars in the industry.

Over the years they’ve produced numerous types of vehicles including trucks, limousines, vans, and buses. In fact, the Mercedes-Benz 600 was a luxury vehicle that became a popular limousine model that was produced from 1964 through 1972.

Mercedes offers some unique car models. Their sedan lineup includes the A, C, E, and S-Class as well as the Maybach. Coupes also include some from the C, E, and S-Class plus the AMG-GT. Their SUV lineup has also grown to include the GLA, GLC, GLE, and GLS. Several of their vehicles are also produced as convertibles. These include the C-Class, E-Class, AGT-GT, plus the SL Roadster.

BMW

BMW has been around since 1916 and is headquartered in Munich, Bavaria. Founded by Franz Josef Popp, BMW stands for Bayerische Motoren Werke (Bavarian Motor Works) and is often recognized instantly by its iconic blue and white roundel logo.

Their greatest successes over the years have come in the realm of handling, horsepower, and performance, solidifying their place amount the best German car brands in the world.

Since its inception, BMW has released many luxury passenger cars, sports cars, and SUVs. BMW USA offers a wide variety of luxury vehicles. They range from the X1-X7, 2-Series to 8-Series, Z4, M Models, i3, i4, and i8.

From comfy daily drivers to modified track-day beasts, the various iterations of BMWs lineup have found a faithful following in both casual drivers and motorsport enthusiasts around the world.

Volkswagen

Volkswagen has been one of the most popular German car brands since 1937 when Ferdinand Porsche started the company. This automotive giant is currently headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Over the years, Volkswagen went on to acquire other iconic brands such as Bentley, Rolls-Royce, Lamborghini, Bugatti, Skoda, and SEAT.

Though not as flashy or luxurious as some of the other German car brands, Volkswagen has created some well-known vehicles including the Beetle and the Vanagon. They don’t have as many models as some of the other German car brands, but buyers still have a decent selection of reliable vehicles to choose from.

Volkwagen’s sedans include the Arteon, Passat, Jetta, and Jetta GLI. They also make the Tiguan, Taos, and Atlas SUV models; or if you’re looking for an EV, check out the ID.4, winner of the 2021 Car of the Year. Hot hatch enthusiasts can opt for the Golf or the souped-up Golf GTI.

Porsche

Porsche is another well-known German automaker. Founded in 1931 by Ferdinand Porsche, its current headquarters are in Stuttgart, Germany.

Porsche mainly specializes in high-performance sports cars and has gained a lot of its reputation from its factory-racing team. Many older Porsches are worth a good deal of money today. The Porsche 911 has been a mainstay in the sports car world for years.

Current sports car models include the 718 Cayman, GTS, Boxster, and Spyder as well as the 911 Carrera, Targa, Turbo, and GT3. Across the board, you have your pick of high-end trim packages and can even opt for a cabriolet (convertible). Porsche also produces a Panamera sedan plus the Macan and Cayenne SUVs as well as its debut play in the EV market, the Taycan.

Opel

You might not be familiar with this German car brand as Opel currently does not sell any models in the U.S. However, the brand, also known as Adam Opel AG, is popular in Germany with its headquarters in Rüsselsheim.

Founded in 1862 by Adam Opel, the company began by manufacturing bicycles but quickly branched out to release the first vehicle in 1899. Opel grew in popularity from there. At present, the company and its parent brand, Vauxhall, are currently owned by PSA Groupe.

Opel came to the States branded as Buicks. It’s possible you’ve seen some Opel cars in old gangster movies. And you’ve likely spotted the 1969 Opel GT in “Starsky and Hutch” to the 1970 Opel GT in “Criminal Minds.”

At present, the brand makes a solid lineup of cars, SUVs, and even a van. The European market has a choice of the Astra, Corsa, Crossland X, Grandland X, Insignia, and Zafira.

Alpina

Alpina has been around since 1965 and is currently owned by BMW, with its headquarters in Buchloe, Germany. Though you might not know about this brand, you’ve possibly seen the badging on a BMW. Alpina works closely with BMW to produce high-performance versions of BMW and Mini cars.

The brand is recognized as an automotive manufacturer as opposed to an aftermarket tuner as each Alpina vehicle leaves the assembly line with a unique serial number that differentiates it from its Bimmer counterpart.

Self-branded as “cars for automotive gourmets,” Alpina isn’t one to churn out a huge quantity of models, but if you do spot one in the wild, it’s sure to turn heads with its bespoke touches — namely their 20-spoke alloy wheels, Alpina Blue metallic paint, the thin, pinstripe styling, and, of course, the Alpina badging. Alpina currently crafts seven sedans (D3 S, B3, XD4, D5 S, B5, B7, and B8) and two SUVs (XB7 and XD3) all finished out with posh touches inside and out.

Gumpert AIWAYS

Founded in 2004 by Roland Gumpert, Gumpert was originally based in Denkendorf. This niche German car brand had a unique mission from the get-go — to usher in the new generation of sports cars.

Though seemingly ambitious, Gumpert did just that with the Apollo, a street-legal car that drew praise for its speed and driving feel. Unfortunately, Gumpert never branched out into mass production of the Apollo.

The company filed for bankruptcy in 2013, which ended the production of the Apollo. But 2020 saw the resurgence of the Roland Gumpert name with the Nathalie, which holds the distinction of being the first hydrogen super sports car with a methanol power cell.

This eye-catching EV, coming out of Ingolstadt, has a similar cutting edge vision: “To develop the world’s first electrically-driven super sports car with racing performance and intelligent energy technology.”

Isdera

This privately-owned German car brand began in 1969 under the direction of Eberhard Schulz. Based in Hildesheim, Germany, the company is also known as “Ingenieurbüro für Styling, Design und Racin” which means “engineering company for styling, design, and racing.”

Their main focus is on manufacturing sports cars, but not in the same way most automakers do. Instead, they utilize a small team of automotive craftsmen to build each car. This has led to a fleet of some of the most unique (and rare) cars you can find on the road, including the legendary Isdera Commendatore 112i built in 1993.

At present, the company has shifted its focus to 100% EV with the eye-cathing Commendatore GT as the most recent example of their handiwork.

German Car Brands: Gone But Not Forgotten

In addition to the current German car brands, a few brands are longer in production but are still worth reminiscing about. Consider yourself lucky if you spot one of these classics on the road.

Adler

Adler was a German car brand that also produced motorcycles and, before World War II, typewriters. The word Adler means “eagle” in German, and the brand produced vehicles from 1900 to 1957. In their cars, they utilized De Dion 2 and 4-cylinder engines ranging from 1032 to 9081 cc.

In fact, in 1930, Adler created a lightweight VW prototype featuring a tubular chassis, independent wheel suspension, and a mid-mounted engine. After WWII, they did not resume production of cars but went on to make motorcycles for eight more years. The Adler motorcycle designs were eventually given to Britain and became associated with Triumph.

Auto Union AG

Auto Union AG vehicles were in production from 1932 through 1966. The brand later became Audi. Prior to that, Volkswagen owned them for a short time. In the original vehicles, the company focused heavily on two-stroke engines which became less popular during the 1960s. As customers began looking for four-stroke engines, Auto Union AG started selling off shares of the company with help from the West German government.

DKW

You might recognize DKW as one of the German car brands that merged with Auto Union AG. Known as the “steam-powered car” or “the little wonder, these vehicles were built from 1916 through 1966. Originally founded by a Danish engineer, DKW’s last car was the F102. Audi then built the four-stroke F103, its successor. The trademark for the company is still owned by Auto Union GmbH, which is part of Audi AG.

Borgward

The Borgward car company was based in Bremen and founded by Carl Borgward. The automaker produced vehicles from 1929 through 1961 and had four brands: Borgward, Goliath, Lloyd, and Hansa. All were sold to international customers.

The Borgward Isabella was a popular premium model during the 1950s, often driven by the working-class. In 1961, some controversial insolvency proceedings brought the company to an end. The brand saw a revival during the 21st century through the Borgward Group AG, with manufacturing and design in China instead of Germany.

Eisenacher Motorenwerk (EMW)

Eisenacher Motorenwerk was a short-lived German car brand, only existing from 1945 through 1956. Most people knew the company, which was based in Eisenach, as EMW.

They produced sports cars plus some Formula One cars during the 1950s. EMW was one of the Formula One car builders in 1952, but they didn’t race in more than one event. The vehicle only made 12 laps before ending the race due to exhaust trouble.

Prior to WWII, the EMW plant was a BMW factory. After the war ended, the Soviets took over the location. They attempted to continue under the BMW brand but were sued and forced to change the name to EMW. In the end, they closed down due to bankruptcy.

Keinath

Founded by Horst Keinath in 1983, Keinath was once headquartered in Reutlingen. With a special focus on building race cars, they received some attention while in production for creating a variant of the Opel Monza. They also created a GTR that was stylish, powerful, and sporty for which the boutique automaker was best and last known for.

The Numbers Don’t Lie: Drivers Love German Engineering and Performance

If you take a look at current and recent global car sales numbers, it’s clear that the German car brands aren’t going anywhere in Germany or in the United States. And for good reason, as these German car brands are known for producing high-performance automobiles loved by the general public. They also tend to rank high on reliability and often are leading the field in innovative features. So next time you’re out shopping for a new car, don’t forget to book a test drive with the Germans. 

Estimates claim that to replace an older Ferrari clutch, you’ll spend more than you would to purchase a used Civic. Yes, all the Ferraris we list below are among the worst, and that’s why they’re the cheapest Ferraris around. You aren’t going to find a high-quality Ferrari for a Camry price. Because nobody wants these models, you can often find them much cheaper than their more sought-after Prancing Horse counterparts. But just because you can afford to buy one doesn’t mean you should.

10 Cheapest Ferrari Cars to Avoid

It should be said that “cheap” in the world of Ferraris is still going to cost you a pretty penny. Depending on the condition, upkeep, and mileage of the particular car, even “cheap” Ferraris are going to run in the range of $30-80k. So just know that by “cheap” we are talking about Ferraris you can potentially buy for under $100k. So if you’re on a budget and feel that you must own a Ferrari, you’ll definitely want to avoid these ten cheapest Ferrari cars — unless you enjoy shelling out lots of money for repairs and general upkeep.

Ferrari 400i

You won’t find a more affordable Ferrari with 12 cylinders than the Ferrari 400i. While it does provide room for four and has intense power, the 400i is expensive to repair. If you must buy one of these, you would do better to purchase the 3-speed automatic versus the 5-speed because they are less costly to fix.

If you do have the money to keep it running, they are neat tourers. The classic, iconic design stands out and they might go up in value if cared for properly. To keep the engine running, you’ll have to have a mechanic that loves working on Ferraris – a lot!

Dino 308 GT4

You might find an affordable Ferrari 308 GT4, but should you purchase one of these cheapest Ferrari vehicles? To many enthusiasts, the 308 GT4 is not really a Ferrari. Yes, it was named after Enzo’s late son and offers a V6 or V8, but you’ll find that most Ferrari lovers refuse to acknowledge this vehicle as a member of the family.

This four-passenger vehicle has its engine mounted behind the seats. One of the reasons it’s so affordable is because of the angular styling. If you still think this is a good buy, just ask Richard Hammond which did an entire episode of Top Gear on how unreliable these cars are.

Ferrari 308 GTS

You can likely find a cheap Ferrari 308 GTS, but should you purchase one? Probably not! First of all the Ferrari 308 GTS comes in some strange colors. You will find many more hues than the iconic Ferrari red that everyone loves — and not all are flattering.

You may even be able to find a 308 GTS fewer than 100,000 miles, but again, you need to keep in mind the potential cost of owning this car. If that doesn’t matter to you, then go ahead and enjoy that Targa top. Though the 308 GTS isn’t fast, it sure looks the part.

Ferrari Mondial

The Ferrari Mondial is one of the cheapest Ferrari cars available. It’s quite the famous Ferrari model, but maybe not for good reasons. The convertible is the world’s only open-air four-passenger vehicle that featured a mid-engine setup. If you look around a bit, you should have the option to get your hands on a coupe.

Why is the Mondial priced so low, you might ask? The answer is clear: no one wanted it. The only person who might be happy about you purchasing a Mondial would be your mechanic. The plus side is that this car does feature a 3.0L quad-cam V8 engine that produces 214 hp. It’s probably not worth the headaches though.

Fiat Dino Coupe

This technically isn’t a Ferrari, but it has a vital piece from one. The Dino Coupe was made by Fiat but contained a Ferrari V6 engine that was also found in the Dino 246 GT. It’s the cheapest way to own a Ferrari-like car and also one of the best sounding Fiats ever created. But, true to Ferrari form, it isn’t very reliable.

The Dino Coupe isn’t nearly as graceful as some of the four-passenger Ferraris. With that said, we know it’s hard to resist a classic Ferrari bargain. Just remember the eventual cost you’ll probably pay for indulging in this temptation.

Ferrari 348

Most people wouldn’t recognize a Ferrari 348, which isn’t one of the more iconic prancing horse cars to hit the streets. That’s most likely due to the Acura NSX which stole the spotlight when the 348 was launched. Then, automotive journalists of the day trashed the 348 for its excessive understeer. Still, it did produce 300 hp.

This convertible is not one of Ferrari’s best achievements, which is why you can buy one at rock-bottom prices. If you just want to tell people you own a Ferrari convertible, then go for it. But we think you would do better investing in something that won’t leave you stranded on the side of the road.

Ferrari 355 F1 Spider

There’s no question that the 355 F1 Spider is probably one of the most stylish models Ferrari has created. The initial reason many people didn’t want it, however, was because of the soft-top, which detracted from the overall design. But on top of that, there were some major issues with the valve guides and headers. If possible, get the service records before buying one. If it’s been well maintained you might be able to avoid these issues as some owners have reported no problems.

Cheap 355 F1 Spiders will come with a good number of miles on them. And routine maintenance requires removing the engine every three to four years. You aren’t going to want to do this tedious job yourself, so prepare for a regular (and hefty) payment to your mechanic. In addition to these concerns, the paddle-shifting transmission is simply mediocre and not what you would expect from this premium automaker.

Ferrari 456 GT

Even though the 456 GT comes from the 1990s, it still appears modern. That’s why people looking for the cheapest Ferrari car tend to gravitate toward this design. At the time of its release, the 456 GT was the most powerful car in the lineup (other than the F40).

The trouble was the cars didn’t hold their resale value, and many people felt they weren’t given the same level of attention from Ferrari as other brands. With that said, the people who owned them took good care of them, so it’s possible to find a model that’s well maintained. If you decide to purchase one, make sure you take your mechanic along to inspect the car.

Ferrari 360 Spider

Spiders were popular with Ferrari, and most models came with a drop-top variant. The 360 Spider wasn’t as bad mechanically as some of the other cheapest Ferrari car options, so you would do better with this model if you need to stick to a budget.

Just make sure you check through all the service records to ensure that it was well-loved by its previous owner. The 360 was known to be rough on clutches, and some owners reported issues with the folding roof mechanism leaking.

Ferrari 612 Scaglietti

This 4-seat grand tourer was produced from 2004 to 2010 and replaced the 456 in Ferrari’s lineup, the design was a bit of a flop. And while you may be able to find a higher mileage model on the “cheap” side, the utilitarian look of the Scaglietti certainly doesn’t scream fast Italian sports car.

Sure, you can fit two adults in the back seat, and the 5.7L V12 offers plenty to smile about in a straight line. And while the Scaglietti is not the worst Ferrari in terms of reliability, owners have reported some transmission woes. And there’s the V12 cambelt which needs to be replaced every 5 years or 30,000 miles. This maintenance item alone will have you dropping some coin at the Ferrari dealer. All-in-all, we think there are some better-looking options on the used market.

Instead of Buying the Cheapest Ferrari Car … Dream About One of These Instead

We’d much rather see someone purchase a reliable Ferrari. Maybe it requires saving up longer to get the car of your dreams, but it will be worth it. Now that we’ve looked at the cheapest Ferrari cars you can purchase used, let’s take a look at a few of the ultra-rare and ultra-expensive Ferraris.

1961 Ferrari 250 GTSWB California

In recent years, a 1961 Ferrari 250 GTSWB California sold for $15 million. Considering Ferrari produced just 56, it’s understandable why this sleek roadster costs so much.

Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa

A Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa sold for $16.4 million at RM Sotheby. As a rare car like this ages, it tends to go up in price. There were only 22 of these racing vehicles produced, and it’s not a street-legal car. When one of these was auctioned in 2011, it was rated as the highest-priced car throughout the world.

Ferrari 250 GTO

It’s estimated that the Ferrari 250 GTO is worth $52 million but most sales take place privately, so it’s hard to confirm that number. There were only 39 of these built in 1962. Collectors regularly refer to this as the company’s ultimate model.

Ferrari 365 P Berlinetta Tre Posti Speciale

While you might not be able to pronounce the Ferrari 365 P Berlinetta Tre Posti Speciale, it still should grab your attention. Only two copies were ever produced, and this unique three-seater is now valued at over $23 million. What’s even more awkwardly awesome is that the driver is placed between the passengers, making this car extremely rare.

Ferrari 290 MM Scaglietti Spyder

It doesn’t matter if you think the Ferrari 290 MM Scaglietti Spyder is ugly — it’s still worth $28 million. That’s because Ferrari only made four. In fact, the company seems to know that’s how you make a car valuable because they regularly did extremely limited runs. Since this car was designed for racing, you won’t see one on the road.

Before You Buy the Cheapest Ferrari Car, Consider This:

If you’re dead set on buying one of the cheapest Ferrari cars, there are other factors you’ll want to consider.

1. Secure a mechanic. We’ve already talked about this, but having a mechanic who is confident working on Ferraris is imperative. Not only will you want a mechanic to join you for a pre-buy inspection, but you’re also going to want one for the inevitable maintenance and repairs on the car down the road. You may not like the continuous flow of bills that owning a Ferrari entails, but you’re going to make your local shop very happy.
2. Prepare for higher insurance rates. Put money aside for this additional cost. Because you’re purchasing an Italian sports car, insurers automatically assume you’ll be driving fast and reckless (and maybe you will). Your premiums are about to go up! Not just because of your driving (although that’s a big factor), but also because the parts to repair your Ferrari will cost more.
3. Account for depreciation. The cheapest Ferrari cars will only continue to depreciate and depreciate quickly. Don’t expect to buy one and sell it for more money than you paid for it.
4. Factor in shipping/transport. Considering you probably won’t find the cheapest Ferrari vehicle in your backyard, you’ll probably need to have it shipped to you or travel to get it. These are all added expenses you will want to account for.
5. Think about storage. If you don’t have anywhere to safely store your Ferrari, you’ll also want to invest in storage. Be sure to factor in this cost.

As you can see, it’s possible to find the cheapest Ferrari car, but you’ll want to go into the purchase with your eyes wide open. These cheap Ferraris might end up costing you a small fortune in maintenance and repairs. Is it really worth all the mechanical hassle and additional costs just to say you drive a Ferrari? There are far better used cars out there that will still turn heads and keep some money in your pocket.

Why You Should Use a Headlight Restoration Kit

Improved Safety — Headlights are essential to your safety on the road. If you can’t see the road in front of you, you can’t drive safely. Furthermore, if other drivers can’t see you, then they are in danger as well. Hazy, foggy, or scratched headlights can make driving at night more difficult and dangerous. With clean headlights and an upgraded LED headlight bulb, you can drive confidently at night.

Resale Value — If you’ve thought about selling or trading in your car in the future, then you know it must be in optimal shape to get top dollar. Showing up with dirty, yellowing headlights isn’t going to help you seal the deal. Your best bet is to maintain them, just like you do every other part of your vehicle.

Save Some Money — If you need to replace your car’s headlights in the future, you may end up having to shell out some serious dough. A high-quality restoration kit, by comparison, is pocket change. As with any aspect of your automobile, doing preventative work is far better than paying for costly repairs or replacements.

10 Best Headlight Restoration Kits

We’ve found the ten top headlight restoration kits on the market. Easy to use, these kits will get your headlights back in like-new condition in no time. Invest in one of these headlight restoration kits, and you can’t go wrong.

Besides the directions that come with each specific kit, also be sure to consult our How to Clean Headlights: The Complete Guide to make sure your headlights look as good as new.

First created in 1945 by the FCC, CB radio stands for Citizens Band radio. They are powerful, reliable, cost-effective, and don’t require any special training or licenses to operate. These radios use 40 channels, with some channels used for specific purposes. For example, truckers use Channel 19 for general communication. CB radios have more power than an FRS radio, but they’re still only meant for short-distance communication.

Looking at all the options on the market can be quite confusing if you don’t understand radios. If you’ve been dreaming of getting involved in some of the conversations, we’ll help you find the best CB radio with our top ten choices.

How to Use a CB Radio

These radios work through radio waves, just like the VHF radios, televisions, and AM/FM radios. Each one comes with a long antenna, usually ranging from 2 to 7 feet, which should be mounted as tall as possible (without whacking overhead obstacles like trees and overpasses) with the most ground plane coverage possible. This antenna catches the signals and then broadcasts them through your CB speakers.

The CB itself is a transceiver. That means it’s used to transmit and receive messages. If you want to talk, you’ll hold the microphone up, press the button, and talk. That message is converted to an electric signal and transmitted through your antenna. As it travels through the air via radio waves, other CB antennas in the area pick up the signal and hear your message.

Uses of a CB Radio

People use a CB radio for many purposes when a regular cell phone just won’t do. Here are the most common reasons to own a radio like this:

• Get weather, travel, and traffic updates while on the road.
• Report an emergency.
• Talking with other friends traveling in other vehicles nearby.
• Communicating in areas without cell phone service.

CB radios are very useful for communicating in areas without cell phone service. This can come in especially handy when off-roading with your buddies. Since a CB radio doesn’t require any cell phone signals, you’ll still be free to communicate with your fellow off-roaders about your location, when you need a tow, and when it’s time to take a break for lunch.

Whether you’re a trucker looking for the best CB radio, or looking for a backcountry option for your overland rig, we’ve evaluated all the best CB radio options available and found ten of the best choices to consider.

What is an Oil Filter?

Oil filters are one of the essential components of your engine’s lubrication system. An oil filter essentially strains out any contaminants and small particles that might be in the engine oil, preventing these contaminants from circling through the system. Your oil filter operates much like your kidneys — filtering out harmful debris and unwanted material that you don’t want circulating in your engine.

The oil filter contains several key parts including the filter medium, tapping plate, pleats center, anti-drain back valve, relief valve, steel tub, retainer, and end disc. The primary filter media captures particles as small as 25 to 30 microns. Then, the secondary media prevents particles as little as 5 to 10 microns from passing into the engine.

Like air filters, fuel filters, and cabin air filters, oil filters need to be changed regularly if you want the best performance from your vehicle. If your oil filtration system is dirty or worn out, you could cause damage to your engine.

Types of Oil Filters

There are several different types of oil filters; it’s crucial you pick the best oil filter for your vehicle. Below, we’ve briefly outlined the types of oil filters on the market as well as how to choose the best one for you.

Mechanical Oil Filter

Mechanical oil filters use materials such as pleated cotton or filter paper to catch and hold dirt and debris.  waste. As the dirt gets filtered out of the oil, it is trapped on the filter. Eventually, as the filter gets dirtier, the oil flow will slow down due to the build-up of substances in the filter. Due to this, mechanical filters will need to be replaced often.

Spin-On and Cartridge Oil Filter

Originally, all oil filters featured a cartridge construction with permanent housings and replaceable media. Then, the spin-on assembly was unveiled. This oil filter design features a self-contained housing with a replaceable filter component. Similar to mechanical filters, the filtering media is often made from paper, cotton, or even cardboard. The spin-on design makes it easy to change your filter without having to replace the entire cartridge.

Magnetic Oil Filter

Magnetic oil filters use electromagnets to suspend metal contaminants separate from the oil flow. These suspended particles do not block the flow of oil through the filter, though you will need to remember to clean the magnet regularly.

Sedimentation Oil Filter

Also known as gravity bed oil filters, sedimentation oil filters utilize gravity to separate out contaminants that are heavier than oil. These suspended contaminants sink to the bottom of the container.

Centrifugal Oil Filter

These filters operate similarly to sedimentation oil filters but use centrifugal force instead of gravity. The oil flows through the filter housing into a drum rotor. This drum rotor features two nozzles that allow the oil to enter. This drum spins allowing the oil to easily passes through the filter housing to the motor, but the contaminants get stuck in the housing wall. Because of the design, you will need to clean a centrifugal oil filter regularly to ensure it continues to work properly.

HE (High-Efficiency) Oil Filter

HE oil filters work like a bypass filter specifically designed to provide your engine with an extended oil drain interval. Because of the small pore size and extended drain intervals, HE filters can capture very small particles, down to 3 micrometers in size, ensuring the wear on your engine is reduced.

Best Oil Filter Brands

You always want to purchase your oil filter from brands that are reputable. We favor five brands in particular if you want to know who’s trustworthy. Mobil 1 has been around longer than most automotive companies. They are known for their affordable oil filters, and their filters average an efficiency of 99.6%, which is plenty for most daily drivers. Also, they utilize an aluminum canister for added durability.

Fram is another trustworthy brand if you’re operating on a budget looking for some of the cheapest, yet still reliable filters on the market. The efficiency rating of these runs about 95%. A popular brand among performance enthusiasts is Royal Purple. These old filters are similar in design to the Mobil 1 but feature a thicker shell for maximum durability and high pressures. The efficiency is 99%, and they should filter out particles as tiny as 25 microns.

Motorcraft oil filters use an innovative design that utilizes multi-pass efficiency. This filters out dust, metal bits, abrasives, and carbon. The filters have pressure relief valves to ensure that the oil supply is uniform even during colder temperatures. And they feature a steel casing construction to prevent rust and corrosion.

ACDelco oil filters have an efficiency rating of 98% and collect particles as small as 25 to 30 microns due to their filtering nets. With their aluminum shell and thermosetting seal, these have a high tolerance and offer superior performance no matter the temperature.

Other quality brands you can trust include WIX, K&N, Purolator, Bosch, and Mann.

10 Best Oil Filters on The Market

Here are our picks for the 10 best oil filters. Remember to make sure you purchase an oil filter that fits your car’s engine.

Truck bed tents aren’t just comfortable and secure, but also easy to set up and tear down. Because of the ease, you could set one up anytime you need a quick nap while traveling. Besides our list of best truck bed tents be sure to check out all the information below about how to choose the right truck bed tent for you.

7 Best Truck Bed Tents

1. DAC Full-Size Truck Tent

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This full-size tent is versatile and suits anyone’s needs. Not only is it easy to assemble, but you can expect to have your tent ready in just a few minutes. In addition, it offers superior ventilation so you have plenty of airflow on warm nights.

This truck tent fits vehicles that have a rear access window which raises up and out. You can also use it with tailgates that equal or are larger than 58” wide. It also fits perfectly with flat back and high back camper tops or place it over your airfoil and carrier rack. This tent also works with SUVs, but it isn’t compatible with any that have a spare tire mounted on the outside of the trunk.

2. Rightline Gear Standard Truck Bed Tent (Full-Size)

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This pickup bed tent offers a floorless design setup. This comes with multiple advantages you might not think about. For example, with this Rightline Gear truck tent, you don’t have to remove your gear from the bed before you set it up. You also don’t have to worry about the bottom of your tent getting dirty from the bed either.

Many people love the color-coded, heavy-duty poles and pole pockets which make assembly hassle-free. In addition, the protective straps help to protect the truck’s finish from damage. This water-resistant fabric combined with tape effectively seals off the seams so you stay dry through the night. There’s plenty of room to hold two adults plus all your gear. In fact, there are even some storage pockets inside to keep your items secure. There’s also a lantern hanging hook and glow-in-the-dark zipper pulls included.

If you want some added ventilation, you’ll love the sky view vent which also offers a panoramic view. If you prefer, you could remove the rainfly and feel the cool, night air for the entire night.

3. Rightline Gear 110907 SUV Tent

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If you plan to turn your truck bed into a cozy sleeping spot, then this is the pickup bed tent you want. It offers lots of space thanks to its 8×8-foot design. There’s even 7.2-feet of height inside. Don’t let the name confuse you; this tent works great for SUVs or trucks. In fact, the tent itself holds four adults plus there’s additional space for two in your truck bed.

The tent fabric is water-resistant and durable. You’ll be safe from humidity and the elements while inside. Simply attach the adjustable sleeve to your pickup truck, SUV, or minivan for a fun, family camping experience. If you prefer, this tent is also versatile enough to be used without your vehicle. That gives you plenty of options for your next trip.

This tent also includes a storm-cover rainfly for more privacy and protection. There’s even a lantern hook located inside and easy-to-use glow in the dark zippers. You can easily store all your valuables in the provided storage pockets, and the tent fits nicely in its storage carrying bag when you’re done in the outdoors.

4. Guide Gear Compact Truck Tent

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Turn your truck bed into a camping oasis with this cool tent option. You remain off the ground at all times for maximum comfort, plus it provides plenty of room inside. Because there’s 4-3/4’ of headroom, you’ll never feel claustrophobic or trapped. Boasting extra protection fabric with sewn-in floor features, it also offers a warm, dry place to lay away from any dampness.

The effective ventilation allows you to receive fresh air at all times, plus this tent features a versatile design for different setup options. With the four-pole tent design construction, you’ll have it set up and torn back down in no time. It also features an easy to use D-shaped door for quick exits and easy entering.

This tent only weighs 10 pounds and comes with a carry bag while it’s not in use. The sturdy polyester construction is waterproof and keeps you comfortable for the entire night.

5. Sportz Camo Truck Tent

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If you love the look of camo, you’ll be a fan of this truck bed tent. It lets you feel like you are a part of the wilderness while still keeping you protected and safe. The 5.7’ height allows room for two people to fit inside comfortably. There’s even a 4×4’ awning that offers some additional shade and protection of your gear.

In terms of full rain protection, it has it all. With the storm flap built-in plus the additional rainfly, you can expect to stay dry at all times while also maintaining your privacy. The rear window gives you easy access into your cabin plus there are three large windows combined with a couple of ceiling vents for maximum ventilation.

This tent comes complete with a lantern holder, gear pocket, easy to use carrying bag and six shock-corded poles made from fiberglass for easy setup. You’ll have your tent ready to go in just ten minutes.

6. Sportz Avalanche Truck Tent III

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If you want your next trip to be roomy and comfortable, this Outdoor Sportz truck tent might be the best pickup bed tent for you. It’s also easy to assemble and doesn’t cost a fortune. You can fit a full-size regular bed air mattress inside, so two adults can sleep with ease.

Because it features 5-1/2’ of headroom, you should have no trouble standing up comfortably. In addition, the fiberglass poles come color-coded so setup is a breeze. The rear door gives you quick access to the cabin when needed. In addition, the larger front door makes exit and entrance easy.

Because there is a six-by-six-foot awning, you have further protection from the sun and elements. Inside, there’s access to the gear loft and two interior pockets to hold your belongings. When you’ve finished using the tent, simply pack it away in the handy carrying bag.

7. Sportz Truck Tent Compact Regular

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This tent comes with enough room to fit two people and has a full floor for maximum comfort. The mesh windows provide excellent ventilation and with side vents for superior ventilation while inside. The higher ceiling measures 5.6’ for plenty of headroom and to keep you from feeling trapped.

The access panel allows you to reach into the truck cab with ease. The setup is also simple and you won’t need guide ropes. If you desire a little extra space, you’ll be a fan of the four-by-four-foot awning that gives even more shade and room.

The rain fly is exceptionally constructed plus setup is simple with the color-coded system. When camping is over, simply put your tent back into its storage bag and you’re good to go.

Truck Bed Tent Buying Guide

What is a Truck Bed Tent?

Essentially, it’s a “tent for back of truck” arrangement but there’s a little more to it than that. Now that we’ve looked at the top picks for the best truck bed tent, let’s define what this handy invention is. The first time anyone saw a commercial truck tent was in 1990 when Roman Napieraj invented one. He was the founder of Napier Enterprises at the time.

Up until then, campers constructed their own forms of truck tents by modifying conventional tent options. A pickup bed tent offers the same thrill and excitement of camping and similar sports outdoors, but it places the user up higher off the ground. They look like a regular tent and have many of the same features. The only downside is that the majority of them won’t work as a regular tent. If for some reason you don’t have your truck, you probably won’t be able to use it.

What’s Inside a Truck Tent?

Each pickup bed tent offers its own design and setup. With that said, many of the tents from the same manufacturer will look alike. Different brands provide a varying amount of ventilation options and windows.

Overall, the biggest aspect of the appearance will be the floor. Many of them have built-in floors, but there are also models without. If you have the floor, you might feel more secure and comfortable. Without it, however, your tent won’t get dirty on the bottom from your truck bed.

In a truck tent, you often won’t find the same views as you would from a conventional tent. They usually have smaller windows and less viewing area. This isn’t true of all of them, but you can expect to pay more for the chance to see the entire outside world.

Truck Bed Tent Buying Considerations:

When you look for the best tent, there are many factors you need to consider. Here are some key points to keep in mind while shopping.

Ventilation Points

You want to take note of how many air vents and windows there are. These are your source of ventilation and help you from feeling trapped. With good ventilation, you’ll sleep better and enjoy the experience a lot more. Otherwise, you’re basically sleeping in a plastic bag. That doesn’t sound fun, does it?

Secure Fit

You’ll want to also pay attention to the straps. These ensure you receive an adequate fit and help to keep your tent in place. If you plan to camp during a windy night, these are even more crucial. While the placement of straps differs slightly depending on the design, you’ll get the basic idea of how to attach them.

It’s also wise to choose a truck bed tent that features straps constructed from a soft material. This keeps your paint job in tip-top shape.

Easy Installation

How much time do you plan to spend setting up? The best truck bed tent should set up easily and quickly. The top of the line options only take ten minutes or less, but you should never spend more than 30 minutes getting one setup.

Of course, you’ll find some features which make this even easier. For example, keep an eye out for color-coded poles which help you to get the job done in record time.

Size

Of course, your tent size is limited by how big your truck bed is. With that in mind, you can still have a say in the truck bed tent height. The compact tents are smaller and often lower-priced, but you won’t have a lot of space inside. They tend to offer a “D” shape which might make some people claustrophobic. If you don’t like being enclosed so much, you’ll want to invest in a higher-end model with the additional interior room.

Pole Construction

In our list  we included options that mainly featured aluminum, color-coded poles. That’s because they offer a lightweight while remaining sturdy and strong. You might think that fiberglass is a better option, and it is in terms of weight. On the flip side, they won’t offer the same strength that aluminum does and might not withstand wind or bad weather the same. Steel poles are also an option, but they are very heavy. We only recommend these if you need to camp in extreme conditions and need maximum durability.

Tent Materials

Just as important as your pole construction, your tent materials need to be durable. Most tents are made from polyester which is waterproofed for maximum protection. There was one on our list that was constructed of canvas. This premium material allows your tent to breathe while eliminating condensation. It’s also going to jack up your price tag significantly. If you can afford a canvas truck bed tent, you’ll get more life out of it and it will be a great investment.

Floor

Some truck bed tents have a floor built-in while others don’t have any. There’s a nice mixture of both included in our truck bed tent list. The floor creates an enclosed feel and additional protection from the elements. There’s also another layer of security between your air mattress and truck bed.

To use a truck bed tent with a floor, it’s essential you clean it out first. That’s why some people prefer to use a truck bed tent without a floor. This is the best option if you store stuff in the truck bed that you don’t want to move first.

Storage Capability

You’ll want to have things on hand like your wallet or cell phone. Leaving them in the cab isn’t always the best option. That’s why it’s helpful to have a least one storage pocket in the truck bed tent to keep your valuables safe and dry. Plus, you won’t crush them when you roll around at night.

Access to the Cab

There are a few truck bed tents that offer some additional access so you can reach into your cab. These options feature a window in the rear that hooks into the cab securely. When you open the window, you can easily get items from the cab without leaving the tent.

This allows you some more storage space and helps you enjoy your favorite tunes while camping.

Price

While we wish you didn’t pick your truck bed tent based on the price, we know many people need to think about a budget. The good news is that even when you’re strapped for cash, you can find some great options. Just take your time and read the reviews and see what others thought about the tent first.

Fit

We’ve listed several types of truck bed tents on our list. Some work for SUVs as well as trucks, but the majority of these are strictly for truck beds. For the most part, you’ll find that the tents fit a variety of pickups. To ensure the proper fit, you’ll want to measure the truck bed and compare that to the dimensions of the tent. Take into consideration your truck type: is it a crew cab? Is it a short truck? Is it a full-size standard? These things are important when selecting the best tent for the job.

Set aside some time to take measurements from multiple areas if you desire a decent size. By examining your truck bed size prior to shopping for a tent, you’ll narrow down your options and make choosing even easier. If you aren’t sure that a tent will fit, don’t be afraid to contact the company and ask them to confirm if it will work. It’s best to be safe, especially if you plan to spend a few hundred dollars.

Final Thoughts

Truck camping is a real adventure and leads to life-long memories. Whether you plan to camp with a loved one or you need a place to sleep while hunting, it’s possible to find a truck bed tent that suits your needs. You can choose a small, easy-to-setup model for those quick stops or invest in something that feels like a full-size tent for extended vacations.

Either way, a truck bed tent offers lots of versatility, protection, and security while you’re away from home. Take your next trip to a new level and invest in a pickup bed tent. You’ll be happy you did after you experience that first great night of sleep.

Just imagine your hot rod’s engine block with some high-gloss orange, blue, or red paint. When you pop open that hood, there’s going to be a lot of heads turning. Plus, removing all that grease and sludge helps it to run a little cooler, which is an added bonus.

The best way to paint your engine is to completely disassemble it. Most people find the best way to handling the painting is to remove the engine completely. If you choose to move forward with painting an engine block while the hoses, cylinder heads, intake, and other components are attached, your final product might have overspray on it. Then, you won’t be able to clean it properly and the paint will start to peel. It’s much wiser to invest time into removing everything from the engine block first.

That’s why we’ve put together a complete guide to painting an engine block.

Before You Begin

Prior to starting this work, it’s wise to have the engine looked at by a mechanic if you’ve been having any trouble. This way, the problems get resolved before you put a bunch of time and money into painting it. Find a qualified mechanic that can give the engine the stamp of approval to move forward with the painting.

Step #1 – Drain all Fluids

Start by removing the battery cables just to add some precaution to your future work. Your next step in the process is to drain all the fluids from your engine block. When you remove the engine, you can also carefully turn your engine block on all sides. Then, allow the liquids to drip out until you don’t see any more.

You might also want to try using some compressed air to force the fluids out. This is helpful when you encounter areas where the fluid doesn’t flow out freely. Wipe off the fluids from the engine with a shop rag before moving on.

Step #2 – Disassemble the Engine Block

You knew this was going to be the first step. Unless you don’t care about the quality of your work, you must do this first.  You’ll want to remove the water pump, power steering pump, pulleys, and intake manifold. Some people also choose to remove the cylinder heads, timing cover, and all the bolted-on parts. Other components to focus on include an air conditioning compressor, if you have one, and alternator.

You could remove the crankshaft and pistons, but you don’t need to. Some people feel this eliminates the possibility of getting any paint on these internal parts. If you choose not to, the color might flake later and cause some expensive damage.

Step #3 – Make Sure You Label Everything

In the process of removing everything, you’ll need to keep things orderly and organized so you can put it all back together again. Everything that comes off your engine block should be labeled while you disconnect it.

This includes your coil wires, spark plug wires, radiator hoses, fuel lines, heater hoses, and vacuum lines. You can use masking tape to label them. Then, simply bundle them together as best you can. Place the connection ends into a plastic bag and then zip tie them. Make sure you store them out of the way but keep them accessible for when the job is complete.

Step #4 – Mask Off

Once you’ve done this, you’ll want to clean the engine block. This entails water and you know there are lots of areas on your motor you don’t want wet. To keep everything dry, you’ll need to cover these spaces.

Tape up any plug openings. You’ll also need to put tape over anything with a sensor. This doesn’t just protect it from the water, but also your spray paint. If you decide to leave components on the motor, tape them as well so they’re protected.

If you use a carbureted engine, you want to take off the air cleaner, put some paper towels in the top, and then cover it up with a plastic bag. You can put tape all around the base of the bag to secure it.

If the tape goes over the edge of the block, don’t fold it against the block. Instead, make sure you cut off the excess with a blade. Make sure you cover the bottom of your engine in the same fashion as you did the top.

Before moving on, you’ll want to double check your work. Keep a close eye out for any openings that might be inside your block. If you notice them, promptly follow the above steps to cover them up as well.

Step #5 – Clean the Engine

Start by scraping any excess dirt or crud off your engine block with a wire bristle brush. You want the engine to be free of all grease, oil, and dirt before painting. Otherwise, the paint isn’t going to adhere and it will chip in the future.

To fully clean the area, you’ll need one of the best engine degreasers on the market. Spray off the engine block with your chosen degreasing agent. Make sure you coat it completely and allow it to soak as per the directions.

Rinse off the degreaser with water. Make sure you spray it off with your pressure washer or garden hose. You might need a good amount of pressure to complete the job.

To remove all the water when you’re done, you can use compressed air. Simply blow off the water until it’s completely dry. If you allow any water to sit on the metal, you could face rust and corrosion. This is especially true with a cast iron engine block.

Once you’re done, inspect the engine for any oil and grease. Make sure you don’t see anything on the exterior surface. If you need to, don’t be afraid to re-apply the degreaser as needed. You could just spot clean in the tough areas until all the dirt is gone.

You may even need to use a small brush to agitate the grease until it comes off. Just remember to rinse and dry completely every time you put more degreaser on.

Step #6 – Use a Sandblaster if Needed

If you find that your engine has a lot of loose paint or rust surfaces, it would be important to sandblast it. For the paint to adhere properly, it must be free of all these elements on the surface.

Sandblasting breaks up any rust and loose paint left on your block, so the metal underneath becomes exposed. You’ll know when to stop because there will be nothing left to remove.

Then, mix a bottle of vinegar and water with a one to one ratio. Spray that on the entire engine surface. You’ll probably notice a foaming action occurring and the vinegar while the solution neutralizes everything. While you spray, take extra caution not to saturate your masking taped areas.

When you’re finished, simply use your air compressor to blow off the entire surface. Once it’s completely dry, you are ready to move on.

If you’re noticing rough edges or casting marks that you can’t remove, it’s acceptable to get out your grinder and smooth the surface as well. This creates a uniform surface that the paint can adhere too properly.

Step #7 – Use Paint Thinner

Wet a rag with some paint thinner. Then, wipe down the entire engine block. You could also pour the thinner into a container and use a paintbrush instead.

Paint thinner can hurt rubber and electronic components, but you should have already removed all of it or covered it completely.

Step #8 – You’re Ready to Paint

Don’t let your engine go for more than a couple days to begin the paint job. Otherwise, you might find that it needs to be cleaned again prior to painting. Even the small amount of moisture in the air can lead to engine rust in a short time. That’s why it’s also important to choose your surroundings carefully.

Make sure that you purchase a high-temperature engine paint. Otherwise, you won’t get the performance you hoped for. You can opt to match your paint to your car, or create a custom paint job all your own. VHT and Dupicolor provide charts to the OEM engine colors and some other custom choices as well.

Use even and smooth strokes as you spray the paint on your engine block. Release your nozzle every time the can goes past your engine. Most people find that two coats seem to work the best. To do this, ensure that you’ve allowed the first coat to dry until it’s tack. Then, you can move on to the second coating with ease. If you don’t let the first coat dry slightly, you’ll notice runs in the paint. Spray down the block as far as possible, and then spray the bottom of the engine too.

You might need to use your paintbrush to reach some areas that the can couldn’t get. Remember, every bit of detail makes a big difference in how the final project looks. Once you put everything back together, you want to be proud of the job you accomplished, which is why you take the extra time now.

Step #9 – Put the Engine Block Back Together

Once your paint is completely dry, you’re ready to re-install the components you removed earlier. We recommend waiting a minimum of eight hours, but longer is always better.

Wait until the paint is completely dry before re-installing all the components and at least 8 hours before starting your engine. Hopefully, you followed the tips earlier and you simply need to pull out all your labeled parts. If so, then your job shouldn’t be too difficult.

5 Additional Tips for Painting an Engine Block

1 – Don’t just hose off the degreaser and dirt without checking local laws. Some areas make this illegal without the use of a catch basin. Then, you must also dispose of your waste properly.

2 – Store-bought paint enamels don’t require the use of a primer. If you take your time and do the preparation work, you should do fine without this. However, you still have the option to use an entire system that includes engine primer. Many of them also come with prepping sprays as well.

3 – While applying paint, you’ll need to avoid any windy conditions. In addition, humidity plays a role in how the paint adheres and dries. Choose a time of day and location accordingly. Ideally, you’ll want to spray when the temperature reaches between 50 and 80-degrees Fahrenheit.

4 – If you aren’t sure where you purchase your spray paint, you could stop at your local auto parts store. You also have the option to visit the home improvement supercenter or nearby hardware store as well. Just make sure you purchase a brand the specifically works on metal surfaces. Some of the top names in the industry include Valspar, Krylon, Plastikote, and Duplicolor. These are the four brands you’ll want to stick to if possible.

5 – When the job is complete, don’t toss those spray cans into your regular garbage cans. When these cans are empty, they’re considered toxic waste. Look into the local laws about how to dispose of these properly in your area.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re painting your engine to protect it from rust, give it a new look, or prepare for that next car show, you’ll be pleased with the results. The job might take a lot of work, but it’s well worth the effort. Sure, you must invest some time, but all good things require your hard work. If you put forth your full attention into the detail work associated with revamping your engine block, you’ll achieve a deep sense of accomplishment when the painting is done. On top of that, your engine will be clean and should stand out in a crowd.

Of course, if you have an older vehicle, your car might require a little more attention and auto repair than most. Always consult your owner’s manual if you are unsure of intervals and proper car tune-up procedures. A good car care routine will drastically improve your vehicle’s lifespan and overall engine performance.

Equipment Needed for Car Tune Up Checklist

Before proceeding, you should gather your materials. For our car tune up checklist, you’ll want:

• Fuel filter
• Ratchet-type socket wrench
• Spark plugs
• Spark plug socket
• Service manual & owner’s manual
• Spark plug gapping tool
• Screwdrivers (Phillips and flat-head)
• Wrench set
• Spark plug wires
• Air filter
• Oil filter
• Engine oil
• Coolant
• Distilled water
• Clutch/brake fluid
• Transmission fluid
• Windshield washer fluid
• Power steering fluid
• Older cars might require a distributor cap and rotor

Important Note about Fluids

If you plan to change your own fluids, make sure you dispose of them appropriately. Take them to a facility that is equipped to handle the disposal. Don’t ever throw them away with your household garbage, flush them down a toilet, or dump them down a storm drain.

1. Check and Change the Oil

The first step in our car tune up checklist is to check your oil. If it’s not time to change it yet, then simply top it off, if needed. It’s critical that you check your oil levels frequently to ensure a longer life. To check it, make sure you have a cool engine. Remove the dipstick and wipe it off with a paper towel.

Take notice of the rag. If it’s black, chunky-looking, or has sediment, you should probably go ahead and change the oil. Then, put your dipstick back into the oil reservoir and check it once again. This will tell you how full your oil level is.

If it’s low, and it doesn’t need to be changed, make sure you add the appropriate type of oil to your engine. Consult your manual to find out the recommended viscosity.

Some cars recommend changing the oil every 3,000 miles. Of course, this varies depending on what type of oil you use and the kind of car you drive. As cars utilize more advanced technology, this number seems outdated. Even Advance Auto Parts says that most new cars don’t need oil changes this often.

When it’s time to change the oil, make sure you drain it completely. Then, reinstall the plug and fill it back up.

You’ll need something to drain the oil into and jack stands or ramps for the car. Most people prefer to have their oil changes done at a shop because it’s inexpensive and quick. If you are a do-it-yourselfer, you just want to make sure you have the space to perform this task.

Keep in mind that the oil filter should also be changed every time you swap the oil.

2. Inspect Your Tires

Not everyone thinks about their tires or tire pressure during their car tune up checklist, but they should. Your safety relies on the quality and health of these rubber circles. No one wants to be broken down on the side of the road because of tire issues.

By regularly inspecting and rotating them, you have less chance of tire failure. Make sure you periodically check the air pressure of your tires. Invest in a pressure gauge and ensure that the pressure in your tires matches what’s on the doorjamb sticker.

It’s also imperative that you examine the wear and replace them as needed. To get more life out of them, you’ll also want to rotate your tires periodically. If you’re going to do this yourself, you’ll need several jack stands. Otherwise, most shops have hydraulic lifts to get the job done faster.

3. Check All Fluid Levels

Make sure you check all your other fluid levels as well. This includes the transmission fluid, windshield washer fluid, coolant, and power steering fluid. You don’t just want to ensure they are full, but also clean.

Your transmission fluid dipstick is easily identified, but you could look in the manual if you aren’t sure where to find it. In some automatic transmission vehicles, it’s the only other dipstick other than oil. Other cars have dipsticks for coolant and power steering, so this varies.

Simply remove the stick, wipe it off, and then place it back in the reservoir. Take it out once again and read the level. You want the fluid to be mainly clear with transmission fluid, with a tinge of red. Many manufacturers recommend changing the transmission fluid every 30,000 miles, while others suggest 60,000.

Your brake fluid is found in a white plastic container located inside the engine compartment. It should be clearly labeled and shouldn’t really every need topped off unless you have a leak somewhere. If you notice the fluids going down, it’s critical to have your brake system checked.

Coolant should be examined when the engine is cold. Don’t ever attempt to remove the cap while the engine is hot or radiator fluid will shoot out. If you begin to notice a sweet smell coming through your air vents while driving, it’s possible you have a coolant leak.

Both windshield washer fluid and power steering fluid are also found in the engine compartment. The power steering fluid shows different levels for a hot or cold engine, so make sure you examine the appropriate one. While the wiper fluid isn’t essential to a longer life, it does extend the life of your wipers.

4. Check the Car Battery

Take time to inspect your battery at regular intervals. You want to look for signs of wear and corrosion. Terminals often become caked with build up which causes issues for the contact points. This might lead to trouble starting the car over time. If you begin noticing difficulty starting, you may want to examine the contact points.

Clean them off with an old toothbrush, baking soda, and water. If you need to, it’s also simple to loosen the bolts holding them in place and clean out underneath them.

Many people wonder how often the car battery should be replaced. Generally speaking, a car battery should last you four to five years.

5. Test Your Brakes

Every now and then, you want to test out your brakes. When you are on an empty road with no one around, pump your brakes at a slow speed to see how they respond. They should initiate right away and the ABS needs to engage properly.

If you notice any squeaking, grinding, or delay in action, it might be time to replace your brake pads. Don’t take chances with your brake system. Sometimes you’ll need to change your brake pads every 50,000 miles. With that said, some need to be replaced after 25,000 miles while others are still going strong at 70,000 miles. Brake pad wear is going to vary greatly depending on what brand you purchase and your driving habits.

The only way to be sure is to check them yourself and change as needed.

6. Check all the Lights

Many people don’t think to do this when examining their car tune up checklist, but they should. You want to inspect the lights on a regular basis to ensure functionality. You’ll need a friend to turn the signals and apply the brakes while you walk around the car.

You’ll also want to flash your high beams at the wall to ensure they are working properly. Sometimes, these need to be aligned better to ensure they illuminate the road properly. You want to see clearly at night to avoid accidents.

7. Replace the Wiper Blades

Part of your car tune up checklist should include your wiper blades. Make sure you inspect them often and replace as needed. If you notice they begin to come loose, show gaps in the coverage, or start to crack, it’s time to get a new pair.

Remove the old blades and simply replace them with new ones. Check your manual to get the appropriate size or take the old ones with you to match them up.

8. Replace the Air Filter

Consult your owner’s manual to determine where the air filter is in your vehicle. Most of them are found in a black casing or plastic container on the top or front of the engine. You’ll notice an air intake hose attached to the housing. Typically, it’s rectangular or square and approximately the size of a loaf of bread.

Sometimes, you can simply remove the air filter and clean it out. To do this, you’ll want to use compressed air and wipe it off. This often extends the life of the filter significantly which in turn, keeps your engine running efficiently.

Some air filters are extremely fragile, so it’s imperative you understand that a blast from the compressed air might blow a hole right through your filter. That’s why you should always have a spare on hand before you start cleaning.

9. Inspect and Change Your Belts

No one really wants to deal with belts during their car tune up checklist, but it must be done. Every time you work on your vehicle, you should also inspect your belts. If they need to be changed, now is the time.

Many people call the long rubber belts running under the hood a serpentine belt. It should snake through the alternator, power steering pump, and other components. The power steering belt is another one to examine, which operates similarly.

Aligning and installing these belts is different in each vehicle. If you begin to notice high-pitched squeaking, especially when you first start the engine or take a turn, you might need to inspect the belts. Belts typically don’t cost much. To install the belt, you can look inside the engine compartment for a diagram, but not every vehicle has one.

10. Replace the Spark Plugs

When you talk about a car tune up checklist, it’s common to automatically think about the spark plugs. These should be checked at regular intervals and replaced when needed.

Spark plugs are essential to fuel combustion, so you want them in top working order. Any spark plug failure could cause your engine to stall.

Consult your service manual to determine the proper procedure of replacement for your vehicle.

Considering the cheap cost of spark plugs, it’s better to replace them regularly, and replace the whole set at once rather than just one at a time. As engine components go, these are cheap, and replacing them is a very easy job.

11. Add Fuel Injector Cleaner

As the last aspect to our car tune up checklist, you’ll want to consider adding fuel injector cleaner every 15,000 miles. It’s easy to find decent cleaners as they are available at most auto parts stores. If you haven’t done this yet, you can start at any time. Just keep track of your mileage, so you can get into a schedule with it for the future.

Maximizing the Life of Your Vehicle

Following our car tune up checklist is a great way to care for your car, but there are other ways to maximize the life. Follow these six tips and you’ll find that you have fewer repairs to perform in the long run.

1. Drive Less

This might seem obvious, but it helps to prolong the life of your vehicle. The more often you cold start your car, the more wear you put on the engine. To extend the life, you want to start and stop it only when necessary.

Of course, you don’t want to avoid driving your car completely as that’s not the proper way to care for it either.

The best way to handle your running around is to consolidate trips. If you need to run out to buy some dog food and get dinner, why not run the two errands at the same time instead of at two separate times? This helps you to avoid a cold start and makes your driving more efficient.

2. Accelerate Slowly

When you attempt to go from 0 to 60 mph in your vehicle, you put a lot of strain on the transmission and engine. There’s really no reason to accelerate like a race car driver. Slow down and enjoy the ride a little more.

Even when you find yourself in a hurry, it’s easy to accelerate gently and smoothly. Work up slowly to the speed you desire. If you drive an automatic transmission, imagine that you’re shifting the gears to help you understand the wear you’re placing on your car.

3. Be Gentle on the Brakes

Make sure you don’t slam on your brakes. If you drive a manual transmission, you can shift into a lower gear to slow down. As a driver of an automatic transmission, you need to be more aware of how often you brake. Look ahead and start decelerating slowly.

Going from accelerating to braking quickly puts excessive wear on the brake pads and will cause you to change them more frequently.

4. Shift Smoothly

If you drive a manual transmission vehicle, make sure you shift smoothly. Changing out a clutch is complicated and expensive. When you hard shift, you accidentally grind gears which causes wear. In addition, revving the engine too much strains your transmission. You don’t want to make repairs to your transmission, so take the time to shift smoothly. Smoother shifting can improve your fuel economy too.

5. Utilize the Best Fuel

Read your owner’s manual and pick the best gas for your vehicle. Also, avoid filling up when the fuel tanker is on site. Gas stations that just had fuel delivered tend to have a lot of water and sediment stirred up inside the tank. Sure, there are filters on the pump, but they can’t possibly catch everything.

If there aren’t any other stations around, wait about 15 minutes before pumping. This allows the gas to settle in the tank.

6. Repair Issues as They Occur

The best tip for prolonging the life of your vehicle is to fix things as you need to. As soon as something doesn’t seem right, check it out and repair it, if possible. Neglecting to care for your car only causes larger, more expensive problems down the road.

Schedule out time to perform the car tune up checklist and you’ll know that you’re doing everything in your power to maintain your vehicle.

Final Thoughts

If you aren’t familiar with vehicle maintenance, the car tune up checklist might seem overwhelming at first. Upon further reflection, you’ll see that most of the aspects to the car tune up checklist aren’t that difficult to perform. Consult your vehicle owners manual and service manual to get more information on how to properly care for your vehicle. If you need further help, reach out to a local shop. If that check engine light appears on your dash, then something’s up – it could be something minor or something major, so it’s best to get it looked at as soon as possible. Whether you do it yourself or have someone else follow the car tune up checklist, what’s most important is that it gets done.

If you would still prefer a light-duty truck work truck, you’re in luck. We’ve found some exceptional models from the used market and some more modern options as well. If you don’t care about family-hauling or the latest technology, a single cab truck might just be the best vehicle for you.

Why Single Cab Trucks are Better

Single cab trucks remain one of the most practical vehicles for a weekend warrior. They are also great for taking to the job when you have a second vehicle for regular driving.

These trucks tend to come with four-cylinder or V6 engines. These provide enough power to get the job done while saving fuel. Even though people refer to them as compact, they are often quite spacious inside.

A single cab truck is ideal for driving around a job site. You won’t be as concerned with protecting an expensive vehicle and you’ll have plenty of hauling ability. With more people looking to combine their work truck into their daily driver, these single cab trucks simply aren’t as popular anymore.

That’s why they are more difficult to find. If you want a lower cost option for work, then the single cab truck might be right for you. These cheap trucks give you all the capability you need without all the extra amenities you don’t want to pay for.

1. 2001 Nissan Frontier

If you want a cheap single cab truck, you can’t go wrong with the Frontier. It was redesigned in 1998 and was superior to its competitors of the time. This truck has a larger front bumper, reconfigured headlights, and a revised grille.

With the updated model also came a new interior. Nissan added a more modern instrument panel, larger radio, plus climate control. The seat fabrics look like woven metal which further reinforces the industrial theme of this truck.

The Regular Cab is offered in two trim options featuring either the 2.4-liter inline-four engine that produces 143 horsepower or the 3.3-liter V6 engine instead. Then, there’s the option to use a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. The best part about these single cab trucks is that there are numerous models available on the used market for under $5,000.

2. 2014 Dodge Ram 1500 Express

If you need an affordable single cab truck, you can’t go wrong with this workhorse from 2014. Even then, it retailed for $16,000, which is less than most pickups. The regular cab seats three people and came with a choice of the 6-foot-4-inch cargo bed or the extended 8-foot option.

It also came with 17-inch steel wheels, automatic headlights, black bumpers and a grille, locking tailgate, vinyl floors, air conditioning, spray-in bedliner, plus cruise control. Other standard features include tilt-only steering, six-speaker sound system, plus USB inputs.

What set this apart from other single cab trucks made for work were all the options. On the used car market, you could find one of these with plenty of additional amenities. Look for keyless entry, cloth upholstery, power mirrors, power locks, carpeted floors, a five-inch touchscreen, satellite radio, and Bluetooth.

There is also an HFE trim. This stands for high fuel economy and it works in conjunction with the standard V6 engine. This trim only comes on the regular cab truck, so you won’t find it with the crew cab. It includes an automatic engine stop-start, mandatory 3.21:1 rear axle ratio, tonneau cover, power accessories, and cloth upholstery.

3. 2014 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Work Truck

One of the most popular pickups still on the used market is the single cab Silverado 2014. The regular cabs came with either the 6.5-foot standard bed or an extended 8-foot option. You can only get the regular cab with the base Work Truck trim or an LT upgrade. Either way, you’re getting a lot of truck for your money.

The Work trim comes with two different subsets; the 1WT or the 2WT. The first includes 17-inch steel wheels, cruise control, air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a tilt steering wheel. It also comes complete with vinyl seating, rubber floors, a four-speaker sound system, and USB ports.

If you find a 2WT on the used market, you’ll get stainless-steel finish wheels, a chrome grille, chrome bumpers, deep-tint glass, keyless entry, power mirrors, Bluetooth, and an upgraded sound system. Going even further to the LT trim gives you the E-Z lift tailgate, cloth upholstery, alloy wheels, carpet flooring, six-speaker audio system, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

The standard engine on all these trims is the 4.3-liter V6 engine that produces 285 horsepower plus 305 pound-feet of torque. It comes paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.

What’s exceptional about this particular truck is that it received a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA. That’s because it included antilock disc brakes, side curtain airbags, traction and stability control, front airbags, and OnStar as standard equipment. Rearview camera, front park assist, lane departure warning, and forward collision alert were all options that you should look for to achieve additional peace of mind.

4. 2011 Ford Ranger

You should easily be able to find one of these single cab trucks for under $10,000. This was the last year that the Ranger was offered before it took its break. We don’t recommend this truck for more than work because it is slightly dated and cramped. With that said, you won’t find anything quite as capable for the price.

The regular cab model comes with an XL, XLT, or Sport trim level. It also comes standard with a six-foot bed, but there was a seven-foot bed available for fleet purchases. Those are harder to find in the used market.

TH XL comes equipped with a trailer hitch, 15-inch steel wheels, air conditioning, standard stereo, and upholstery. The XLT earned foglamps, full power accessories, leather-wrapped steering wheel, keyless entry, CD player, and upgraded exterior trim. At the top of the levels, the Sport featured a full-size spare, sidestep bars, center console, and bucket seats.

This single cab truck is powered by a 2.3-liter inline-four which produces 143 horsepower plus 154 pound-feet of torque. Standard equipment includes a five-speed manual transmission, but you’ll probably find many of them with the optional five-speed automatic instead. There is also an available 4.0-liter V6 engine option that yields 207 horsepower plus 238 pound-feet of torque. We recommend splurging on that option instead if the budget allows.

5. 2009 Chevrolet Colorado Work Truck

The 2009 Chevy Colorado came redesigned with a new power option. This light-duty pickup is on the cheaper side of single cab trucks, but will surely save you some money if that’s your goal. It was the first year that Chevy offered the 5.3-liter V8 engine which pumped out 300 horsepower. They also provided the four- and five-cylinder engines from previous models as well.

The regular cab configuration features a six-foot bed and three trim levels to choose from. The Work Truck is the base model and only came with an AM/FM stereo plus air conditioning. If you have a little extra money, the LS upgrade is worth it. It comes with upgraded trim and some options that increase comfort.

We don’t recommend this truck if you are looking for the best features on the market; this single cab truck is strictly for a low-cost work truck. Otherwise, invest in something a little more comfortable and updated.

6. 2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty

If you need a heavier duty work truck with a regular cab, you’ll be hard pressed to find one these days. One of the only models still available is the F-250 Super Duty. Of course, the price isn’t quite as low as many of our other single cab trucks, but far better than you would pay for an F-350 or F-450.

The Super Duty provides the perfect combination between usability and capability. It features modern upgrades and supportive seating. The regular cab comes with either 6.8 or 8.2-foot bed. There’s also the option to utilize the 6.2-liter V8 engine producing 385 horsepower or go with the 6.7-liter diesel V8 instead that pumps out 450 horsepower. Both of these engines come with a six-speed automatic transmission. In addition, rear-wheel-drive is standard, but you could upgrade to four-wheel-drive if you prefer.

The base XL model is the cheapest way to go, and essentially a work truck. Even still, it comes with 17-inch steel wheels, intermittent wipers, a rearview camera, manually adjustable telescoping towing mirrors, removable locking tailgate, and 2.5-inch trailer hitch receiver. It also features air conditioning, four-speaker sound system, vinyl upholstery, and a driver information display.

The Super Duty is a rare find among all the single cab trucks on the market.

7. 2006 Toyota Tacoma

The Tacoma offers a much lower cost than the others on our list. It’s a perfect choice if you need to shop cheap single cab trucks. Even though it has a lower price, it still has plenty to offer. First of all, Toyota is known for the durability and reliability. That’s why there are so many of these still floating around on the used market.

The regular cab comes with either two- or four-wheel drive. You can also get the PreRunner model which offers the suspension and looks of a four-wheel drive without all the gear. Choose from the four or six-cylinder engines and is outfitted with essentials such as a CD stereo, power points, and antilock brakes. All models also feature the composite cargo bed, built-in storage units, and tie-down anchors.

8. 1999 Ford SVT F-150 Lightning

Going back even further, you find this higher-performance single cab truck. This supercharged pickup is located on the used market for well under $10,000 and offers something a little different than our other single cab trucks.

It has a short wheelbase and short bed. This F-150 comes powered by a 5.4-liter Triton SOHC V8 engine and belt-driven supercharger. That’s what allows it to produce 360 horsepower plus 440 pound-feet of torque. Now you see that this isn’t your typical pickup.

In fact, that’s 165 horsepower more than the standard 5.4 Triton. It allows this pickup to hit 60 mph in 6.2 seconds. If you want to go even newer, the 2001 model gets 380 horsepower instead. While it’s still just an F-150, this model sure does offer some sports car-like tendencies.

It doesn’t come with an overwhelming amount of standard features, but it didn’t need to. The appearance alone was why most people purchase this truck. Of course, it does boast of having performance suspension and Z-rated Goodyear tires which most other trucks don’t have.

9. 2017 Ford F-150

Jumping forward a few years brings us to a more modern-looking F-150. Ford never fails to offer a diverse lineup of trucks that are light-duty and deliver some of the best tow ratings in their class. This generation features a quiet interior, aluminum construction, and plenty of standard features.

When you need to shop budget-friendly single cab trucks, this should be one of the first you look at. For a decent work truck, you would do fine with the XL and the 101A package. It also comes with either a 6.5- or 8-foot bed.

If that doesn’t provide enough variety for you, there are several engine choices. There’s a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 282 horsepower, a turbocharged 2.7-liter V6 that produces 325 horsepower, plus the 5.0-liter V8 that produces 385 horsepower. All of these come combined with a six-speed automatic transmission. At the top of the pack, you can get the turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 with 375 horsepower and ten-speed automatic transmission, even on the work truck.

Base features include 17-inch steel wheels, trailer sway control, automatic headlights, vinyl flooring, air conditioning, a 4.2-inch central display, and a four-speaker audio system.

10. 2018 Ram 1500 Tradesman

Ram has been a leader in work trucks for many years, so it’s no surprise that this 2018 model has everything you could want. It comes standard with a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine and 305 horsepower. You could also opt to receive the 5.7-liter HEMI V8, but that jacks up the price.

The regular cab comes with either a 6-foot 4-inch bed or 8-foot configuration instead. The Tradesman is the base model and workhorse of the Ram lineup. It has very few luxury amenities but features everything you need to get the job done. Standard equipment includes the ParkView rear backup camera, vinyl seating, a class IV receiver hitch, heavy-duty shock absorbers, and six airbags.

The next level up is the Express which is also a work truck. This version gets rid of the bedliner and hitch but adds 20-inch wheels, carpeting, and body-colored exterior trim.

Final Thoughts

When you need to find the best single cab trucks for sale, many people take to the Internet. Of course, heading to Google to perform a search for “single cab trucks for sale near me” isn’t going to tell you which models are the best to choose from. That’s why we put together a list of the top ten for you. There’s a healthy mixture of cheap single cab trucks through heavier-duty pickups as well.

No matter what you’re looking for, there’s a compact truck out there for you. It’s just a matter of determining what’s important for your next truck purchase.

The trouble is, most people have no idea what to look for when searching out the most expensive Hot Wheels. That’s where we come in! Check out the list of the ten most expensive Hot Wheels to see if any of these might be something you own. If so, prepare for a nice little paycheck.

10. 1968 Custom Volkswagen without Sunroof

This isn’t topping the charts of the most expensive Hot Wheels, but it’s worth starting here. This Hot Wheel was manufactured in Hong Kong but was only distributed in Europe at first. Most of them went to the United Kingdom and Germany, to be exact. They featured different interior from the American models and there weren’t any plastic side windows as most the VWs had.

This Hot Wheel typically came in aqua or blue, but there are some rare models featuring copper, green, or red as well. If you find one lying around, it might be worth $1,500 which is some nice pocket change.

The design of this particular model is unique. It didn’t h have a sunroof like the more popular models did and featured a front engine, unlike most that utilized the rear engine design. It also came with tinted blue glass, detailed suspension, and a black steering wheel.

9. 1968 White Enamel Camaro

Many collectors agree that this is the first Hot Wheel car ever made, which makes it one of the most expensive Hot Wheels on the market. It is hard enough to find this model loose, let alone still in its blister pack. With that said, if you were to find it, you might earn yourself $2,500.

We understand why Mattel chose to make their first car a Camaro; it’s an exceptional choice. In that first year, they actually released 16 different vehicles, but the white Camaro was only produced 35 times. The reason it’s so rare is that it was a prototype. Typically, the factory would paint the prototype white or black to inspect for trouble.

If you do find one, it’s likely to be in poor condition, but that won’t stop you from getting top dollar. Buyers will want to exercise caution before purchasing one of these because there have been plenty of forgeries. Make sure you get it verified before engaging in any transaction.

If you come across the metallic red model of this car, you’ll still earn a few bucks. However, the $500 for that pales in comparison to the money you could make from a white car.

8. 1970 Red Baron with White Interior

When you are looking for the most expensive hot wheels car, you’ll surely come across this Red Baron. Keep in mind that less than ten of them were produced. The model itself wasn’t ever mass produced and there’s no decal on its helmet. If you’re one of the lucky ones to have this in your collection, you can expect to fetch $3,000 for your car.

This car is cool and definitely impresses. The perfect blend between the red exterior and metal top makes this car stand out. The original design featured an Iron Cross motif and WWI German infantry helmet.  It also came with capped redline wheels, a pointed spike on the helmet, and spectraflame red paint. You would find them packaged with a plastic or metal Collectors Button as well.

The inspiration behind this car has two parts. First, the Red Baron is the imaginary villain that Snoopy always faces from his doghouse. Otherwise, it also has some inspiration from Manfred von Richthofen, a German World War I fighter pilot. Hot Wheels plan was to create a vehicle that reminded people of the era’s fighter planes.

7. 1995 Collector Number 271 Funny Car

Part of the reason this car is worth so much is that there’s only been 12 of them made. With that said, there isn’t a lot of hope in finding one because only seven have surfaced. If you happen to see this model, you might be able to earn yourself $3,500. That alone makes it one of the most expensive Hot Wheels in the world.

They were produced in the 90s plus they feature a ‘271’ collector’s number on it. The trouble is, if you do find one, you’ll need to have the original packaging with it. Otherwise, there’s no way to prove authenticity. On top of that, if you decide to purchase one, don’t get too excited about what you see on eBay. There have been plenty of counterfeits with fake packaging sold on the auction site.

6. 1970 Ed Shaver Custom AMX

This collector’s model was only available in the UK. The blue design was produced to join the Hot Wheels’ Exclusive Racing Car Series. You’ll notice the Ed Shaver stickers located on the car. That’s actually what makes it one of the most expensive Hot Wheels. If you have one, expect to earn a nice payday around $4,000.

Ed Shaver, an American serviceman, was sponsored by Mattel for his drag racing. He was also based out of the UK just like the car company. Some of the models were given out on the track itself while others were part of a cereal promotion. There aren’t many left today, which is what makes them so valuable.

You have to be careful that you don’t confuse the UK version with the American model. The only difference is where the stickers are placed. Buying the UK version is difficult and it’s hard to determine if the labels were placed differently after the fact. That’s why it’s not wise to purchase one of these online, but rather have someone inspect the car for you before forking over any money.

5. 1970 “Mad Maverick” Base Mighty Maverick

What makes this car so rare is the imprinted word ‘mad.’ The original title of this car was the Mad Maverick, but they renamed it after a short production to the Mighty Maverick. In total, only five of these exist, as far as we all know. There have been two blue models, a purple, and another one that wasn’t assembled and features no color. Because they are being sold, it’s hard to figure out the value, but it’s estimated to be several thousand dollars. Even without the value, we know this is one of the most expensive Hot Wheels out there.

To get what it’s worth, you’ll need to find one that has the printed ‘Mad’ on the base. Many collectors compare this model to a unicorn and assume they’ll never see one in person.

4. 1974 Blue Rodger Dodger

It’s not different for Hot Wheels to create a muscle car, but the Rodger Dodger is valuable. If you head to eBay, you might be confused when you see a ton of these models for sale at reasonable prices. That’s because of the color option. The purple, red, and yellow versions are not as collectible. The only one that’s rare is the blue version. That’s because there were only seven of them made and it might have been exclusive to the UK.

Strangely enough, there was a man named Bob Parker who traded in England with a collector and got two of the blue Rodger Dodgers. He wanted more of them, so he asked and received five more. All seven of the models then got sold to U.S. based collectors. He assumed he could get more so he never saved one for his own collection. That was a big mistake.

Now, if you find one of these for sale, you’ll see it costs about $8,000 to acquire one making it one of the most expensive Hot Wheels.

3. 1968 “Cheetah” Base Python

The Cheetah Base Python was never supposed to make it into the public. It was produced in Hong Kong and had a patent pending. Mattel didn’t research the name before creating it and ended up conflicting with the name of Bill Thomas, the GM executive’s Corvette. Because of this, only a few were made previous to the name change. All of the original cars were painted in red and now retail for over $10,000.

If you find one of these, it will have the word “Cheetah” imprinted on the base. To date, only eight have surfaced. It’s one of the original 16 die-cast Hot Wheels models that Mattel released in 1968.

2. 1969 Pink Rear-Loading Volkswagen Beach Bomb

We only know of one of these most expensive Hot Wheels in existence. It’s now owned by the well-known Hot Wheels collector Bruce Pascal. The prototype was produced in 1969. Surfboards were loaded in the back rear window. With the second model, the surfboards went through side pod instead.

The reason they never produced the prototype version was that the car didn’t fit tracks properly because it was too narrow. Pascal didn’t mind! He spent $72,000 to add this car to his collection. There’s been a report of a second model floating around, but honestly, we think it’s just a rumor. People want to believe there’s another one out there so they can keep their hopes alive of getting one.

If you find the mass-produced variety instead, it’s still worth a small amount. Recent auctions show the 1969 Beach Bomb selling for about $800.

1. 40th Anniversary Diamond Encrusted Otto

What is the most expensive Hot Wheels car? Some of you might not agree with this decision since it wasn’t a production vehicle. Some collectors believe that the Beach Bomb is the most expensive Hot Wheels, be we feel obligated to include this model as well.

Hot Wheels commissioned this car as the 40^th anniversary of the company. Don’t you wish you had a birthday present given to you that was this valuable? Even if we did own it, what would we do with it? You certainly couldn’t race it down a track with all those diamonds and sparkle.

In fact, this die-cast car comes with 1,388 blue diamonds, 319 white diamonds, 988 black diamonds, eight rubies, and is constructed from 18k white gold. The diamonds on this car weight 23 carats in total. Jacob Arashben, a celebrity jeweler, spent 600 hours just to assemble this beauty. The total price that Hot Wheels paid to create this car was $140,000. I guess that’s why they only made one.

The underbody of the car is painted with the spectraflame blue while the brake lights are constructed from red rubies. We can only imagine what the company will create during future anniversaries.

Tips on Collecting the Most Expensive Hot Wheels

While it’s unlikely that you’ll ever get your hands on one of these super rare Hot Wheels, you might find a few treasures of your own. There are plenty of Hot Wheels in circulation that will easily bring you a couple of hundred dollars. Here are some of our best tips for collecting the most expensive Hot Wheels.

Start by collecting what you like. Pick the cars that appeal to you and don’t focus on strictly finding the most expensive Hot Wheels. Choose a color, year, or specific series to start with. You can even begin by searching through one of the popular Hot Wheels collections.

In addition, make sure you research your purchase before making it. In today’s technological world, there’s no reason to make a bad investment. You have plenty of information available to you to make sure you’re getting a good deal.

If you want to start collecting a certain series, we have some you could look for.

Hot Wheels Collections

Treasure Hunt – these hard to find cars feature a circle flame logo somewhere on the vehicle.

Super Treasure Hunt – these are even harder to find and are upgrades versions of the mainline cars. They feature Spectraflame paint, a TH hidden on the car, and Real Riders wheels.

HWC/RLC Exclusives – these limited high-end cars were only available at HotWheelsCollectors.com. They feature die-cast chassis, die-cast bodies, plus the hand-polished chrome Spectraflame paint. They also come with either Real Riders tires or Neo-Classics Redline wheels. All of them have opening features such as a rear hatch or engine hood.

Premium Cars – this assortment had an intense attention to detail. They also have the Real Riders Wheels and die-cast chassis, but they are available in three varieties. The Car Culture was for vehicle aficionados, the Replica Entertainment designed for film and media buffs, plus the Pop Culture lineup was aimed at the brand lover.

Retailer Exclusives – some series and vehicles were only made available to particular retailers.

Variants – throughout the production years of particular cars, some components were changed or altered. You might notice that wheels got swapped out or the design evolved. The rarer the variation was, the more valuable the car became.

Classic Redlines – as a general rule of thumb, the older a Hot Wheels is, the more it’s probably worth. Of course, you also want to be wary of their condition, but go ahead and visit those flea markets and garage sales hoping to find a rare beauty.

You’ll also start to learn about First Editions, ZAMACs, Customs, and Event Cars the more you’re around the collector world. Enjoy your time collecting and hopefully you’ll find a treasure one day.

Final Thoughts

It’s unlikely that you’ll ever have one of these most expensive Hot Wheels. If you do, we would love to become your friend. Even though you might not find the Holy Grail of Hot Wheels out there, it’s still fun to hunt. Hit up your local events and see what treasures you might be able to find.