SUVs and trucks, explained
Pick the right SUV or truck and know what it can really do.
Model-by-model reliability, honest towing answers, SUV comparisons and plain-English 4×4 and off-road basics for everyday drivers.
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Explore SUV & Truck Guides
Pick a topic to find reliability, towing and drivetrain advice.
Truck Reliability
Common problems, best years and what to inspect on popular pickups.
Explore topic →02SUV Reliability
Which SUV years to buy, which to avoid and what ownership costs.
Explore topic →03Towing Capacity
What each truck or SUV can tow and what limits the number.
Explore topic →04SUV Comparisons
Head-to-head comparisons on space, ownership cost and use.
Explore topic →054×4 vs AWD
Which drivetrain suits snow, towing and trails, and what it costs.
Explore topic →06Off-Road Tips
Beginner trail basics, tire pressure, recovery gear and safety.
Explore topic →Featured reading
Start Here: Most-Asked SUV & Truck Questions
The reliability, towing and drivetrain questions shoppers ask first.
Which SUVs Have Timing Chains Instead of Timing Belts?
Most modern SUVs use timing chains, but many older and some current engine families still use belts. Verify by engine code before…
What Is Normal Oil Consumption Between Oil Changes in an SUV?
Normal oil use in an SUV depends on the manufacturer. Some makers allow more than others, so compare dipstick trends with the…
What Is a Bad Lifter on a Truck?
A bad lifter can cause ticking, misfire, or loss of compression. If the noise gets louder with rpm, stop driving and diagnose…
What Is Tongue Weight and Why Is It Important?
Tongue weight is the downward force a trailer puts on the hitch. For most bumper-pull trailers, it should be 10% to 15%…
From the blog
Latest SUV & Truck Articles
New guides on reliability, towing, comparisons and off-road basics.
What Are Recovery Points on a 4×4 or Truck?
Recovery points are reinforced, structure-mounted attachment points for controlled towing or recovery. Never use a tie-down,…
What Is Approach Angle on an SUV or Truck?
Approach angle is the steepest ramp your SUV or truck can climb without front contact. See…
How Does Full-Time 4WD Work?
Full-time 4WD uses a center differential or coupling to send power to both axles while letting…
What Are the Best 3-Row SUVs for Families?
Family-first 3-row SUVs should fit child seats, let adults reach the third row, and keep cargo…
Does My Vehicle Have a Tow Package?
Check hitch, wiring, cooling, axle, and brake hardware first. Then confirm the VIN and build sheet,…
What Is Ground Clearance on an SUV or Truck?
Ground clearance is the distance from an SUV or truck’s lowest point to the ground. This…
Recent Guides
- Which SUVs Have Timing Chains Instead of Timing Belts?
- What Is Normal Oil Consumption Between Oil Changes in an SUV?
- What Is a Bad Lifter on a Truck?
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