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.
Part-time 4WD Explained: How It Works and When to Use It
Part-time 4WD stays in 2H on dry pavement and shifts to 4H or 4L only where tire slip can prevent drivetrain bind.
Truck Transmission Problems: Symptoms, Causes & Fixes
Truck transmission problems usually trace to fluid, heat, control faults, internal wear, or driveline issues. Match symptoms to causes, severity, and the…
SUV Towing: Capacity, Limits, and How to Choose
Choose an SUV for towing by checking payload first, then tongue weight, GVWR, rear-axle rating, and GCWR instead of relying on the…
SUV Transmission Problems: Signs, Causes and Fixes
SUV transmission problems often start with slipping, delayed engagement, harsh shifts, leaks, overheating, or a warning light. Match symptoms to likely causes,…
From the blog
Latest SUV & Truck Articles
New guides on reliability, towing, comparisons and off-road basics.
What Is Truck Cylinder Deactivation and How Does It Work?
Cylinder deactivation cuts fuel use under light load by shutting off some cylinders, then restores them…
Which Trucks Are Known for Rust Problems?
Older full-size pickups in salty-road regions are most prone to rust. See the worst model-year groups…
What Is Excessive Oil Consumption on an SUV?
Excessive oil consumption on an SUV is usually any pattern near or above 1 quart every…
Compact SUVs: Best Picks, Pros and Cons
The best compact SUVs are the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, Hyundai Tucson, and Subaru…
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…
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,…
Recent Guides
- Part-time 4WD Explained: How It Works and When to Use It
- Truck Transmission Problems: Symptoms, Causes & Fixes
- SUV Towing: Capacity, Limits, and How to Choose
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