AuthorNicole Wakelin

Nicole Wakelin covers the automotive industry as a freelance journalist for a variety of outlets. Her work includes news pieces, podcasts, radio, written reviews, and video reviews. She can be found in The Boston Globe, CarGurus, BestRide, US News and World Report, and AAA along with lifestyle blogs like Be Car Chic, The Other PTA, and She Buys Cars. She is active on social media with a large following on both Twitter and Instagram and currently serves as Vice President of the New England Motor Press Association.

A brake proportioning valve underneath a brake master cylinder

Posted October 19, 2021 Know How

What Is a Brake Proportioning Valve?

The brake proportioning valve is a key part of your brake system. It controls the pressure between your front and rear brakes.

A UTV Out in the Field.

Posted September 22, 2021 Batteries

UTV Maintenance: Choosing a Battery

Good UTV maintenance includes checking your battery to make sure it’s charged and ready to go.

A group of ATVs lined up and ready to roll.

Posted September 16, 2021 Maintenance

5 ATV Air Filter Change Tips

Keeping your ATV air filter clean is an essential part of regular maintenance. Here are 5 tips for changing your ATV air filter.

Outboard motors on docked boats.

Posted September 5, 2021 Know How

How to Winterize an Outboard Motor In 6 Steps

Knowing how to winterize an outboard motor is essential for the overall health and performance of your boat. Here’s everything you need to know.

Jack stands hold up a vehicle.

Posted August 27, 2021 Maintenance

Where to Place Jack Stands on Your Vehicle

Knowing where to place jack stands is important if you’re going to do any kind of work under your car. Here we discuss jack stands and how to use them.

An Old Morris Minor Off-Road.

Posted August 13, 2021 LifeStyle

What is the Gambler 500?

The Gambler 500 is a unique event that doesn’t require a fancy car to race in and even encourages contestants to use cheap vehicles.

A dead car battery.

Posted August 12, 2021 Maintenance

What Causes a Dead Battery?

No one wants to deal with a dead battery, but every battery depletes. How long yours will last depends on several factors. Here’s what you need to know.

A truck on a dusty road that needs an air filter wrap.

Posted August 10, 2021 Maintenance

What is an air filter wrap?

An air filter wrap isn’t part of the standard equipment on a typical car, but you can add one to your air filter to help keep the air in your engine clean.

A lawn mower and a toy lawn mower.

Posted August 8, 2021 Maintenance

Identifying a Lawn Mower Engine Popping Sound and Possible Fixes

A lawn mower engine popping sound can be startling. It’s what you hear when your engine backfires, and there are few possible causes to address.

A thermometer with a high temperature reading.

Posted August 6, 2021 Know How

How to Keep Your Car Cool in Summer

Knowing how to keep your car cool in summer weather can help you enjoy the warmer temperatures as you head out on vacation adventures.