Understand the systems in your vehicle, prepare better service questions, and explore the design choices behind individual models. Start with the practical guides below, or browse the dated vehicle and technology coverage by subject.
Autos is a companion to Cars: buying, maintenance and ownership. The collections share useful resources; each article keeps its established address. Historical entries describe their original period, so prices, availability, specifications and product claims should be read in that context.
Practical guides and researched resources
Choose the question you are working on. Each guide explains how to gather and use the relevant evidence.
Vehicle Inspections: Choose the Right Check and Use the Findings
Choose an inspection for your purpose, brief an independent technician, and turn written findings into a practical purchase or repair decision.
Motor Oil: Match the Specification to Your Engine
Read the vehicle requirements, compare oil labels and approvals, and keep a clear record of the product and service schedule.
Auto Glass: Plan a Windshield Repair or Replacement
Compare windshield-service proposals, confirm glass and camera requirements, and collect clear release and aftercare instructions.
Hybrid Vehicle Safety: Find the Right Guidance for Your Car
Identify your hybrid, save its owner information, and prepare clear contacts and vehicle details for service, roadside assistance or an emergency.
Lane Departure Warning: Understand the Alerts and Limits
Identify warning and steering-assistance functions, read their operating conditions, and prepare a useful record when a system becomes unavailable.
Automotive Design: Read a Concept Car Beyond Its Styling
Evaluate a concept car through its intended use, packaging, physical evidence and unresolved engineering tradeoffs.
Used Car Values: Build a Price Range You Can Defend
Compare appraisals, local listings and written offers to estimate a used car’s value and negotiate with clear evidence.
Volkswagen Phaeton: Verify Service Support Before You Buy
Assess an early Phaeton through exact equipment, working cabin systems, maintenance evidence and confirmed specialist support.
Parking Assist: Check What the Vehicle Controls
Identify the parking features fitted to your vehicle, map driver responsibilities, and prepare a manual-based familiarization record.
Car Scan Tools: Choose the Coverage You Actually Need
Define the vehicle, system and function you need, verify scan-tool coverage, and compare software support and ownership costs.
Sunroofs: Compare Designs, Check Condition and Plan Care
Identify a roof system, assess everyday fit and visible condition, and prepare useful questions about leaks, operation and service support.
2006 Honda Civic: Identify the Version and Plan an Inspection
Distinguish the U.S. 2006 Civic sedan, coupe, Si and Hybrid, then build a used-car inspection brief from records, recalls and current condition.
2007 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited: A Used-Vehicle Inspection Guide
Identify a 2007 U.S. Wrangler Unlimited, check drivetrain and roof equipment, and organize evidence about condition, modifications and recalls.
Automotive Safety: Compare Ratings, Equipment and Vehicle Condition
Compare crash-test evidence for exact vehicles, verify fitted safety equipment, and keep recalls and present condition in the decision.
Automotive Diagnostics: From a Reported Symptom to a Verified Repair
Document a workshop diagnostic case with a clear concern, preserved evidence, a testable explanation, authorized work and a verification result.
Low-Speed Electric Vehicles: Check Routes, Capacity and Support
Check whether a neighborhood or campus electric vehicle fits the whole route, local road rules, passenger load, charging and service needs.
Nanoparticle Clear Coat: Understand Scratch Resistance and Repair
Distinguish factory clearcoat, repair paint, detailing coatings and protection film, then evaluate claims and prepare a finish-specific care or repair quotation.
Car Design at Calty: From Sketches and Clay to Production
Follow Calty through Toyota records to understand design roles, model development, engineering collaboration and the path from an idea to a production vehicle.
Custom Car Projects: Define the Work and Verify the Installation
Prepare a customization brief, compare written shop proposals, and agree on compatibility, acceptance checks and handover records.
Electric Utility Trucks: Match the Work, Load and Charging Window
Define a utility-truck duty cycle, check loaded capability and depot charging, and design a measured fleet pilot before purchasing.
Early Mazda RX-8: Plan a Rotary-Specific Inspection
Identify an early RX-8, evaluate maintenance and starting history, and commission a documented rotary-specialist inspection before buying.
2005 Nissan Xterra: Verify Drivetrain, Modifications and Condition
Identify a 2005 Xterra, review drivetrain and radiator history, and prepare an inspection covering structure, equipment and modifications.
2006 Subaru Forester: Compare Versions and Reconstruct Maintenance
Identify a 2006 Forester version, organize service evidence, and turn missing maintenance records into a practical inspection and ownership plan.
2008 Nissan Titan: Verify Configuration, Payload and Towing Limits
Identify a 2008 Titan, assemble its load limits, and compare a planned trip with vehicle labels, towing documentation and measured weights.
2006 Chrysler Pacifica Crossover: Check Seating, Drivetrain and History
Identify a 2006 Pacifica crossover, test its passenger and cargo fit, and prepare an inspection brief grounded in the actual vehicle’s equipment and records.
Volkswagen Eos: Inspect the Folding Roof and Ownership Records
Prepare an Eos viewing around roof operation, water-entry evidence and specialist support, then connect those findings with the car’s service history.
SEMA Show: Plan a Useful Industry Visit
Check the right attendance route, set concrete business questions, and organize exhibitor meetings, learning and follow-up around decisions you need to make.
RFID in Automotive Remanufacturing: Design a Traceability Pilot
Map component identity through remanufacturing, compare barcode and RFID capture, and define a pilot that measures useful records and handles exceptions.
Vehicle Yard Tracking: Connect Location, Work Status and Release
Plan a vehicle-yard tracking pilot that connects identity, observed location, work queues and authorized release, with measurable recovery and dwell-time checks.
Automotive Touch Sensors: From Finger Detection to a Confirmed Command
Understand how a touch becomes a vehicle command, why feedback matters, and what evidence distinguishes sensing reliability from interface usability.
2007 Nissan Quest: Check Seat Layout, Door Operation and Family Fit
Evaluate a 2007 Quest around passenger access, installed seating, sliding doors, cargo needs and documented condition before judging family fit.
2006 Hyundai Sonata: Compare Powertrains and Build a Condition-Based Shortlist
Compare 2006 Sonata candidates using verified engine and transmission combinations, service evidence and independent inspection findings.
Early Fifth-Generation Jetta: Identify the Engine, Transmission and Service Requirements
Match an early fifth-generation Jetta to its actual powertrain and service literature before comparing equipment, maintenance records or parts.
2005 Nissan Frontier: Match Cab, Drivetrain and Bed Equipment to the Job
Compare a 2005 Frontier with a real pickup task: cab access, cargo dimensions, fitted bed hardware, load limits and documented mechanical condition.
2005 Mercedes-Benz E320 CDI: Verify Diesel Service and Ownership Requirements
Assess the U.S. 2005 E320 CDI through correct engine identity, documented fuel and oil requirements, specialist inspection and realistic ownership costs.
Land Rover LR3: Assess Suspension, Terrain Systems and Service Support
Evaluate an early LR3 through its actual suspension and terrain equipment, diagnostic evidence, seating and cargo fit, and available specialist support.
2005 Infiniti G35: Compare Coupe, Sedan and Modified Examples
Separate 2005 G35 coupe, sedan and G35x variants, document modifications, and compare everyday fit with inspection and service evidence.
Nissan Qashqai Concept: Trace the Ideas from Show Car to Production
Use the 2004 Qashqai concept and first production Qashqai to distinguish design intent, show-car mechanisms and documented production choices.
Car TV: Compare Passenger Video Sources and Connectivity
Choose between downloaded video, streaming and broadcast television, then test the actual passenger screen and connection before a trip.
Alpine Car Audio: Plan an Upgrade and Verify the Installed System
Define the listening goal, verify Alpine model compatibility and retained vehicle functions, and document the installation and tuning handover.
Land Rover Experience: Choose an Off-Road Lesson and Prepare for It
Match an instructor-led off-road experience to your learning goals, verify the current center and participation terms, and keep a useful lesson record.
2005 Subaru Legacy: Compare Body Styles, Engines and Service Evidence
Compare US-market 2005 Legacy sedans and wagons, distinguish 2.5i and turbocharged GT choices, and use service evidence to assess each candidate.
2008 Nissan Pathfinder: Compare V6 and V8 Versions Against Your Needs
Identify the exact 2008 Pathfinder drivetrain, compare V6 and V8 ownership tradeoffs, and resolve equipment, loading and service questions before choosing.
Early BMW 1 Series Hatchback: Identify the Market, Engine and Equipment
Identify an early five-door 1 Series by its market and build details, then compare equipment, rear-seat access and luggage fit.
2005 Porsche Boxster and Boxster S: Prepare a Specialist Inspection
Brief a Porsche specialist with the car’s identity, service evidence, roof observations and two-seat luggage needs before making a purchase decision.
First-Generation MINI Convertible: Check Roof, Cargo and Everyday Fit
Try the first-generation MINI Convertible with your passengers and bags, verify its roof operation and record the right questions for an inspection.
2005 Audi A6: Verify Powertrain, Electronics and Service Scope
Identify a US 2005 A6’s powertrain and fitted equipment, demonstrate important controls and turn unresolved functions into a clear inspection brief.
2008 Nissan Armada: Check Passenger, Cargo and Towing Fit Together
Assess one Armada for a complete family trip: required seats, usable luggage space, parking access, load limits and any trailer.
2005 Mustang Coupe: V6, GT and Modification Records
Compare a 2005 Mustang coupe by engine, gearbox, everyday fit and documented changes to its wheels, suspension and powertrain.
2006 Kia Rio: Equipment, Service History and Everyday Fit
Evaluate a US 2006 Rio sedan or Rio5 using actual equipment, passenger and luggage trials, service evidence and initial-work estimates.
Early Chrysler 300C: Market, HEMI and Equipment Identity
Identify an early 300C by market, engine and drivetrain, then document lubricant requirements, service history and cabin equipment.
2005 Mercedes-Benz C-Class: Body Styles, Sport and AMG
Separate US 2005 C-Class sedans, wagons and Sport Coupes, verify Sport versus C55 AMG identity, and organize equipment and service evidence.
2005 Nissan 350Z: Edition, Transmission and Equipment
Verify a 2005 350Z coupe or 35th Anniversary claim using transmission-specific evidence, original equipment records and documented modifications.
2006–2007 Dodge Charger: Verify Daytona, SRT8 and Super Bee Claims
Check an early Charger special-edition claim against factory records, installed equipment and a separate condition assessment.
Subaru Baja Turbo: Cargo Fit and Service Evidence
Test the Baja Turbo with your actual passengers and cargo, then organize engine, gearbox and modification records for an inspection.
Land Rover LR2: Practical Fit and Service Records
Evaluate an early LR2 through a passenger-and-cargo trial, component-specific service evidence and a qualified inspection.
Pontiac Solstice: Roof, Luggage and Weekend Fit
Try the early Solstice with your actual bags, check both roof positions and build a practical inspection and service plan.
Hydrogen Shelby Cobra: The 2004 Announcement and Its Evidence
Read the hydrogen Cobra announcement in context, distinguish combustion from fuel cells and test the boundaries of emissions claims.
2006 Infiniti M35 and M45: Compare Drivetrains and Service Evidence
Identify M35, M35x, M45 and Sport versions, compare service records, and prepare an inspection for the equipment actually fitted.
2006 Range Rover: Verify the Engine, Suspension and Ownership Support
Identify the full-size 2006 Range Rover, document suspension changes, and turn service claims into a useful specialist inspection brief.
Mitsubishi Raider: Match Cab, Drivetrain and Parts Support to the Job
Compare a 2006 Raider with your passenger and cargo needs, identify its drivetrain, and verify parts support for the exact truck.
Jaguar X-Type: Identify the Car and Build a Useful Inspection Brief
Use a 2004 US X-Type sedan as a reference, verify the fitted equipment, and compare body condition, service evidence and specialist findings.
PT Cruiser Convertible: Verify the Turbo Version and Dream Cruiser Package
Identify a 2005 PT convertible, verify Dream Cruiser Series 4 evidence, and test roof operation, rear-seat access and luggage fit.
2005 Porsche 911 Carrera and Carrera S: Identify the 997 and Plan an Inspection
Identify a 2005 997 coupe, reconcile fitted equipment and major-work records, and prepare a focused Porsche-specialist inspection.
Subaru B9X to B9 Tribeca: Trace the Name and Test the Seating Layout
Connect B9X with the 2006 B9 Tribeca, identify its seating configuration, and test passengers and luggage in one usable layout.
Acura RD-X Concept to 2007 RDX: Follow the Production Changes
Trace the RD-X concept, RDX prototype and first production model through dated Acura records, with a feature-by-feature evidence method.
Mercedes 3.5-Liter V6: Understand Valve Timing, Intake Control and Engine Identity
Understand the early M272 V6’s main control systems and turn a reported symptom into clear, engine-specific workshop questions.
Lexus SC 430: Check the Hardtop, Tire Equipment and Pebble Beach Identity
Assess a 2004 SC 430 through its roof demonstration, actual tire and luggage setup, and evidence for a Pebble Beach edition claim.
Early Range Rover Sport: Identify and Assess the Suspension Systems
Separate air suspension, Dynamic Response and Terrain Response on an early Range Rover Sport, with a practical viewing and workshop record.
997 Porsche 911 Turbo: VTG Explained and Performance Claims Compared
Understand the early 997 Turbo’s variable turbine geometry and compare performance figures with their transmission, units and test context intact.
2006 Infiniti M Cabin Technology: Check Equipment and Everyday Functions
Identify the fitted keys, display, navigation, audio and climate equipment in a 2006 Infiniti M, then record useful parked-function checks.
Kia Soul: Trace the 2006 Concept to US 2010 Production
Follow Kia Soul design ideas from the 2005 preview to the US 2010 model, separating concept features, production equipment and real-use checks.
Bentley Mulliner: Build a Commissioning Brief and Check Provenance
Distinguish Mulliner specifications, bespoke commissions and coachbuilt projects, then document design approvals and vehicle provenance.
Maserati Quattroporte: Transmission, Service History and Provenance
Identify an early M139 Quattroporte’s transmission, organize service evidence and investigate a Neiman Marcus edition claim.
Porsche Carrera 4 and 4S Cabriolet: Roof, Tires and Everyday Fit
Assess an early 997 Cabriolet through model identification, a roof demonstration, tire records and a realistic passenger-and-luggage trial.
Mazda MX-Crossport to CX-7: Design, Packaging and Production Evidence
Trace the MX-Crossport concept into the initial US CX-7, distinguishing design lineage, seating changes and documented mechanical specifications.
Porsche Carrera GT: What the Materials and Components Do
Understand the Carrera GT’s carbon-fiber structure, ceramic clutch and aerodynamic features by connecting each component to its purpose.
Maybach 57 and 57 S: Identify, Check and Support the W240
Separate Maybach 57 and initial 57 S specifications, document fitted equipment and confirm a practical specialist-support plan.
SUVs, pickups and minivans
Historical coverage, dated to its original publication.
- International RXTHistorical coverage · February 10, 2005International RXT commercial pickup positioning and configuration.
- 2005 Nissan XterraHistorical coverage · January 7, 2005Production-start coverage for the second-generation Xterra.
Compact and family cars
Historical coverage, dated to its original publication.
Sports cars and convertibles
Historical coverage, dated to its original publication.
- 2008 Porsche 911 Turbo CabrioletHistorical coverage · May 9, 2007The 2008 911 Turbo Cabriolet introduction and its powertrain and roof specification.
- TramontanaHistorical coverage · March 9, 2005The aeronautical inspiration and tandem layout of the Tramontana project.
- Mercedes SLR McLarenHistorical coverage · August 23, 2004Early U.S. deliveries of the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren.
- MercedesHistorical coverage · July 19, 2004The Mercedes-Benz SL's fiftieth anniversary and a tennis-hall-of-fame event.
- Chrysler ConvertiblesHistorical coverage · May 21, 2004Chrysler's launch-era convertible lineup and Top Down Days promotion.
Luxury cars and bespoke models
Historical coverage, dated to its original publication.
- Mercedes 2007 CL600Historical coverage · August 2, 2006The 2007 CL600 Signature Edition offered through a holiday catalog.
- Bentley Sport CoupeHistorical coverage · September 23, 2004The Mulliner Driving Specification for the Continental GT.
- Maybach Commissioning StudioHistorical coverage · December 8, 2003Maybach's bespoke commissioning and manufacturing process.
- Bentley LimousineHistorical coverage · March 2, 2004Bentley Mulliner's Arnage Limousine and rear-passenger design.
- Maybach 62Historical coverage · January 6, 2003The 2004 Maybach 62 introduction and bespoke luxury positioning.
Vehicle systems, materials and accessories
Historical coverage, dated to its original publication.
- Aston Martin DB9Historical coverage · June 11, 2004OLED instrumentation and display technology in the DB9.
- VisteonHistorical coverage · February 5, 2004Visteon components and cabin technology exhibited for 2004–2005 vehicles.
Electric and alternative-power projects
Historical coverage, dated to its original publication.
Concepts and automotive design
Historical coverage, dated to its original publication.
- Rinspeed ZaZen Concept CarHistorical coverage · February 15, 2006The zaZen concept as a whole-vehicle design proposal for Geneva.
- zaZenHistorical coverage · December 19, 2005Materials and the proposed holographic brake-light treatment of zaZen.
- Nissan UrgeHistorical coverage · December 14, 2005The motorcycle-inspired Urge concept and its driver-oriented cockpit.
- Scion ExileHistorical coverage · December 14, 2005A CALTY proposal for the Los Angeles Auto Show Design Challenge.
- Pontiac G6Historical coverage · November 15, 2005Roush personalization of the G6 presented at SEMA.
- Foose Mustang StallionHistorical coverage · August 19, 2005The Foose/Unique Performance limited-edition Mustang project.
- Nissan AzealHistorical coverage · December 20, 2004Nissan Design America's Azeal concept coupe.
- Infiniti KurazaHistorical coverage · December 14, 2004Kuraza's passenger-focused interior design concept.
- ASC SSR DiamondbackHistorical coverage · October 27, 2004ASC's SSR Diamondback specialty-vehicle project.
Automotive industry, events and media
Historical coverage, dated to its original publication.
- Street GlowHistorical coverage · March 24, 2004A Daytona Beach automotive-lighting competition and its event context.
- MitsubishiHistorical coverage · March 9, 2004A Mitsubishi information-technology leadership award and business systems.
- BMW X3 GameHistorical coverage · December 1, 2003The BMW X3 promotional online driving and sports game.