What Is a Body Lift?

A body lift raises the vehicle's body higher on the frame by inserting spacers (lift blocks) between the body and chassis. Nothing else moves — not the axles, not the suspension, not the differential. The truck gains extra space around the wheel wells and a taller visual stance, but the mechanical architecture stays the same.

Typical lift height: 1–3 inches
Works only on: body-on-frame vehicles (pickups, older SUVs, and traditional 4x4s)

Advantages of a Body Lift

• Cheaper and easier than a suspension lift
• Keeps factory ride quality
• Leaves the entire suspension geometry untouched
• Allows installation of larger tires
• Doesn't increase wear on steering or driveline parts

Downsides of a Body Lift

• No increase in under-axle ground clearance
• Creates visible gaps between body and frame
• Bumpers may require relocation brackets
• Doesn't improve off-road performance by itself
• Limited to modest lift heights

Why Bigger Tires Change Everything (Even Without a Suspension Lift)

A body lift doesn't raise the axles. But it creates room for bigger tires — and that's where actual ground-clearance gains come from. If you replace a 28-inch tire with a 33-inch one, the truck gains 2.5 inches of real under-axle clearance (half the diameter increase).

This visually mimics the stance of a suspension lift even though the suspension height has not changed.

It's the same principle used on the iconic Marty McFly's pickup from the Back to the Future movie, which achieved its legendary presence largely through oversized tires fitted under standard fenders.

What Is a Suspension Lift?

A suspension lift raises the vehicle by changing springs, shocks, control arms, brackets, and sometimes steering and driveline components. This physically lifts the entire chassis — not just the body — increasing suspension travel and improving off-road angles.

• Typical lift height: 2–6 inches
• Works on: almost all trucks/SUVs
• Advantages of a Suspension Lift
• Raises chassis, frame, and body
• Improves approach, departure, and breakover angles
• Allows dramatically larger tires
• Improves suspension articulation and off-road capability
• Provides a more commanding stance
• Downsides of a Suspension Lift
• Expensive (parts + installation + alignment)
• Affects suspension geometry and may require correction kits
• Potential long-term wear on steering, CV joints, U-joints, and bushings
• May alter handling and braking
• Can affect warranty and vehicle inspections

It's no surprise that owners of heavily-modded Jeeps end up referencing Jeep maintenance guides regularly — suspension lifts add performance, but also responsibility.

Body Lift vs Suspension Lift (Side-by-Side Comparison)

Some high-end vehicles, such as the G-Wagen, are notoriously sensitive to suspension changes — anyone familiar with Mercedes-Benz G-Class maintenance knows that even small geometry variations can become costly. This makes a body lift or mild suspension lift a safer option for owners unwilling to compromise longevity.

Real-World Scenarios: When Each Lift Makes Sense

Choose a Body Lift If:

• You want the look without changing ride quality
• You're on a budget
• You need extra room for slightly larger tires
• You drive mostly on roads and only do light trails
• You're lifting an older or simple body-on-frame truck

Choos a Suspensioon Lift If:

• You're serious about off-roading
• You need real ground clearance
• You run overlanding setups, heavy bumpers, or winches
• You want maximum wheel articulation
• You're installing large tires and need room for suspension travel
• You plan to upgrade shocks, springs, or control arms anyway

Choose Both If:

You want the best compromise: a mild suspension lift (2 inches) plus a small body lift (1 inch) to clear big tires without extreme suspension geometry changes.

You want the tall look while keeping driveline angles reasonable.

The Difference Between Body Lift and Suspension Lift (Explained Simply)

A body lift raises only the body — nothing underneath moves.
A suspension lift raises the vehicle's entire structure — axles stay in place, but the frame and body rise together.

A body lift gives appearance and tire clearance.
A suspension lift gives performance and capability.

FAQs

What's better: body lift or suspension lift?

Neither is "better" by default. A body lift gives you looks and tire space on a budget. A suspension lift transforms off-road capability but costs more. The right choice depends on how you use the vehicle.

What are the downsides of a body lift?

Visible gaps, limited lift height, bumper misalignment, and no real off-road improvement unless paired with bigger tires.

Are body lifts cheaper than suspension lifts?

Yes — often dramatically cheaper. Installation is simpler, and they don't require expensive steering or driveline corrections.

What is the difference between a suspension lift and a regular lift?

"Regular lift" usually means a body lift. A suspension lift raises the whole chassis and changes how the suspension behaves. A body lift only raises the body from the frame.

Back-to-Back World Champion

The BMW N54 is a 2,979 cc inline-six with an aluminum block, direct injection, and two small parallel turbos. It was built from 2006 to 2016, though most production cars used it between 2006 and 2013. At a time when BMW was still known for high-revving naturally aspirated engines, the N54 introduced a new philosophy: effortless torque, broad power delivery, and tuning potential that felt almost unreal. The engine earned multiple International Engine of the Year awards in the 2.5–3.0L category from 2007 to 2012, cementing its engineering credibility.

Traditional BMW Architecture

For more than half a century, BMW was known for its inline-six engines. They powered the famous 328 racer, the fabulous M1, and many other vehicles. As a result, the N54 continued the automaker's tradition with a straight-six layout with the following defining attributes:

• Inline-six layout, naturally balanced and smooth
• Aluminum block and head
• 84.0 mm bore and 89.6 mm stroke
• Direct fuel injection
• Parallel twin-turbo setup (two small Mitsubishi TD03 turbos)
• 10.2:1 compression ratio in most versions
• Factory power outputs ranging from 302 hp to 335+ hp, depending on model and tune

The magic behind the N54 wasn't just the turbo architecture. BMW engineered the block and internals in a way that felt almost old-school: forged crankshaft, strong connecting rods, and robust pistons that could take serious abuse. Even bone-stock, the engine produced more power than BMW officially advertised — something long-time owners still laugh about. And once tuned, well… let's just say it ran like a scalded cat and asked for seconds.

Historical and Engineering Background

BMW introduced the N54 in 2006 as part of a new turbocharged generation of powertrains. It wasn't BMW's first boosted engine, but it was the one that brought turbocharging back into the mainstream lineup after decades of naturally aspirated dominance.

The N54 quickly earned a reputation as both a powerhouse and a tuning legend. It also laid the foundation for the N55 (single twin-scroll turbo) and eventually the B58 family — the engine you'll find in many modern BMWs and in articles like cars with B58 engine, which explore its reputation as the real "German 2JZ" thanks to improved reliability and thermal control.

Key Applications

Below is a table with the major production vehicles equipped with the N54, including the correct engine variants used in each.

Strengths Of the N54

Power delivery

Instant torque, minimal lag, and a mid-range surge that hits harder than BMW's early numbers suggested. Even bone-stock, it felt underrated.

Forged internals

A big reason the N54 reached cult status. Tuners routinely extract 500–600 hp without internal modifications, and 700+ hp builds aren't uncommon.

Tuning potential

The aftermarket is enormous, and the engine responds to tuning like it was built for it — because, in many ways, it was.

Silky smoothness

It's still a BMW inline-six, meaning it delivers a smooth, refined feel once warm.

Sound

A deep, muscular tone that feels rawer than the later N55 and B58 powerplants.

Weaknesses Of the N54

As legendary as the engine is, it does have its downsides — some well-known, some overblown, but all worth mentioning.

High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP)

A notorious failure point. BMW extended warranties because early pumps had serious reliability problems.

Fuel injectors

Index 1–10 injectors were problematic. Index 11 (introduced after 2012) solved most of the major issues.

Turbochargers

Wastegate rattle and premature turbo wear were common. Not ideal, especially for buyers expecting typical BMW refinement.

Electric water pump

A known weak link. When it fails, the car usually goes into limp mode almost instantly.

Carbon buildup

Direct injection means no fuel washing the valves. Walnut blasting becomes part of ownership.

Thermal stress

The engine was powerful, but the cooling system worked hard. Heat management was one of its weaker traits.

Maintenance sensitivity

The N54 doesn't like long oil intervals or cold revving. With 6,000-mile oil changes and proper warm-up, it becomes far more reliable. Guides like BMW X5 maintenance or comparisons like Audi vs BMW maintenance cost help new owners understand what this level of machinery requires.

Writer's Commentary

The N54 deserves its place in BMW history — and in enthusiast folklore. It wasn't the brand's first turbocharged engine, but it was the one that set the tone for a new era. With forged internals, strong tuning potential, and a muscular personality, it became a weapon in the right hands. But like many high-performance engines, it demanded respect. Push it hard before it warms up, skip maintenance, or trust extended oil intervals, and it will bite back.

Still, when treated right, the N54 is a loyal companion. It's overbuilt in all the right ways and flawed in others, but unforgettable as a whole. The industry loves to call it the "German 2JZ," but, as a BMW driver, I think that crown really belongs to the B58 — a more refined, reliable evolution of what the N54 started.

FAQs

What car has the N54 engine?

The N54 was used in the 335i, 135i, 535i, X6 xDrive35i, Z4 35i/35is, the 740i, and the rare 1 Series M Coupe.

Is the BMW N54 a good engine?

Yes, with proper care. It's incredibly powerful, responsive, and tunable, but requires disciplined maintenance.

How much HP does a N54 have?

Factory ratings range from 300 to 335 hp, depending on model and tune.

Is N54 the German 2JZ?

Many people consider it like that because the N42 is strong and highly tunable. However, the B58 that followed is considered by many to be a better choice thanks to increased reliability and thermal management.

Before the post-war explosion of color, there's the origin story. In 1922, Henry Ford wrote the line that became automotive folklore: "Any customer can have a car painted any colour that he wants, so long as it is black." This wasn't stubbornness—it was production logic. Black lacquer dried fastest on Model T assembly lines, keeping costs low and output high. Once the Model T era ended, Ford's palette opened up, and color became part of the brand's personality.

When you look at how Ford car colors evolved over the decades, you notice a similar pattern seen in Toyota colors: once a brand understands its visual identity, its most successful shades tend to repeat, evolve, and eventually become part of its long-term design language. Ford followed that same path, refining certain hues generation after generation until they became inseparable from the badge.

The Post-War Transformation: From Utility to Expression

After WWII, Ford vehicle colors shifted from practical to expressive. Buyers wanted optimism, brightness, and individuality. Ford responded with post-war pastels, metallics that mirrored American prosperity, the high-impact shades of the muscle era, and the digital-era blues and neons seen today. These Ford factory colors didn't just define Ford—they steered wider automotive trends and often forced competitors to follow.

Below are the shades that mattered most across decades, the colors that built Ford's visual identity.

1940s–1950s: Optimism, Chrome, and Post-War Confidence

Skyline Blue (1954)

A soft pastel that defined early Thunderbirds and Sunliners. It captured the optimism of the era—cars as symbols of lifestyle, not just transport.

Colonial White (1956)

A creamy white that became synonymous with the '50s American dream. Ideal for two-tones and chrome-heavy designs.

Torch Red (late 1950s)

A vivid red that was used on Thunderbirds and Galaxies. It established Ford's long tradition of high-energy reds.

1960s: The Muscle-Car Color Revolution

Highland Green (1968)

Quiet, deep, unmistakably American. The Bullitt Mustang made this shade legendary. It inspired an entire movement of dark performance greens across the industry.

Wimbledon White (1964–today)

A soft, warm white introduced with the original Mustang. One of Ford's most enduring shades.

Grabber Blue (1970)

Bright, youthful, rebellious. First seen at the dawn of the '70s peak muscle years. One of Ford's strongest color identities.

Grabber Orange (1969–1970)

A punchy, high-impact orange that reflected the muscle era's loud personality. Still deeply loved today.

1970s–1980s: Aerodynamics and Metallics

Dark Jade Metallic (1977)

Richer and more sophisticated than earlier greens. Ideal for the shift toward luxury-oriented Fords.

Medium Silver Metallic (1980s)

A clean, futuristic tone that became a staple on Fox-body Mustangs and Aero-era sedans.

Regatta Blue (early 1980s)

A refined blue tone that worked for family cars and sporty trims alike.

1990s–2000s: Clearcoats, New Chemistry, Performance Revival

Vibrant Red Clearcoat (1993–1995)

The SN95 Mustang's signature red is clean, bright, and reflective of updated paint formulas.

Sonic Blue (2003)

A modern legend, made iconic by the Mustang SVT Cobra and F-150 Lightning. Perfectly balanced between playful and premium.

Screaming Yellow (2004–2006)

A youthful, high-energy color that stood out in the early 2000s performance revival.

2010s–2020s: Digital Era, Electric Identity, Modern Drama

Ford’s modern palette, especially its futuristic blues and muted metallics, fits right into a broader industry shift toward digital-era tones — a direction we also noted in Rivian Colors, where clean, tech-forward shades became signatures of the EV movement. Ford took that trend and adapted it to its own heritage, creating colors that feel modern without losing the brand’s familiar personality.

Ingot Silver (2010s)

Ford's global best-seller for years. Neutral, clean, and versatile.

Guard Green Metallic (2015)

A mature, deep metallic green that blended heritage with modern luxury.

Velocity Blue (2019)

A strong, high-chroma blue across the F-150, Mustang, Explorer, and more. One of Ford's defining 21st-century hues.

Cyber Orange (2021–2023)

Bronco's hero color—warm, loud, perfect for the off-road rebirth of the nameplate.

Vapor Blue (2024–today)

A soft, futuristic pastel-blue metallic. Tailor-made for the EV era and Ford's modern design language.

Design Influence: How Ford Colors Shaped the Industry

Ford colors didn't develop in isolation—they influenced everyone else:

• Grabber colors inspired an entire wave of high-impact shades across Detroit in the early '70s.
• Highland Green resurrected deep greens industry-wide after Bullitt's revival.
• Sonic Blue sparked the "performance blue" trend seen in Subaru, BMW, and even AMG tones.
• Cyber Orange encouraged other off-road brands to reintroduce warm, saturated hero colors.

Ford's palette has always been more than decoration. It has been trendsetting.

Writer's Commentary: The Three Ford Colors That Say Everything About the Brand

Grabber Blue

You simply can't talk about Ford without talking about blue. It's baked into the brand's identity, stitched right into that one-of-a-kind Blue Oval badge the whole world recognizes. Grabber Blue isn't just another shade in the catalog — it's the extroverted side of Ford's personality, the color that shows the brand at full volume. It carries a kind of youthful confidence you don't need to justify; you just see it from across a parking lot and know it's a Ford with something to say. Over decades, Grabber Blue has resurfaced again and again, each time reminding everyone that Ford knows how to lean into emotion, not just engineering.

Wimbledon White

Ford has used many whites over the decades, but Wimbledon White stands in a class of its own. There's something remarkably timeless about it — warm enough to avoid that sterile appliance look, soft enough to flatter every curve on a vintage body. Classic Fords painted in Wimbledon White feel almost museum-ready the moment they leave the garage. Early Mustangs wore it proudly, but it also gave elegance to Thunderbirds, Fairlanes, and Galaxies. It's the kind of shade that never tries to dominate the design; it simply elevates it. Decades later, it still does exactly that.

Highland Green

Few automotive colors carry a myth around them, but Highland Green absolutely does. It's impossible to separate this shade from the image of Steve McQueen's Mustang Bullitt roaring through San Francisco — the film didn't just make the car famous; it made the color immortal. Highland Green is Ford at its most understated and its most confident: a deep, moody tone that doesn't shout but leaves an unforgettable impression. What makes it so powerful is its dual personality — elegant in the shadows, fierce in the sunlight, and always unmistakably tied to the Mustang's legacy. And every time Ford brings it back for a special edition, it proves once again that some colors don't just age well; they become cultural landmarks.

Colors don't just highlight design; they reinforce the story a brand tells about itself. Ford's most enduring shades work the same way its best taglines do, shaping how people emotionally connect with the vehicles. It's the same relationship we explored in Ford Slogans: color and marketing often move hand in hand, each strengthening the other's message.

The example in his shop had 32,007 miles on the odometer when a severe oil leak appeared. According to the mechanic (who has around 1.2 million YouTube subscribers), the Phantom’s 6.75-liter V12—based on BMW’s N73 engine family—began leaking due to the design of the alternator bracket, which is bolted directly to the engine block.

Luxury Car, Luxury Problems

A gasket is a thin sealing material that prevents fluids like oil, coolant, or air from escaping between metal surfaces. When a gasket fails, those fluids begin to leak. In this case, if left unaddressed, it can accelerate wear and raise temperatures because oil helps lubricate moving parts.

Even though this tiny gasket costs almost nothing, the luxury nature of the Rolls-Royce Phantom means the repair cost rises dramatically due to the amount of labor required. The mechanic explained that replacing the gasket can take up to 12 hours, thanks to the complex disassembly needed to reach the part. That includes draining the coolant system because the Phantom's two alternators—responsible for powering the car’s electrical systems while the engine runs—are liquid-cooled, a more intricate setup compared to traditional air-cooled alternators.

As the mechanic bluntly summed it up, the automaker “overcomplicated the living hell out of it.”

He also noted that shops offering cheaper labor rates often won’t even accept a Rolls-Royce due to insurance and liability concerns. If a vehicle as valuable as a Phantom gets damaged during repair, the financial consequences for a small shop could be devastating.

The takeaway is simple: think twice about a luxury car if you’re not willing to commit to its heavy maintenance demands.

Gen Z shoppers—born between 1997 and 2012—typically gravitate toward entry-level models or used cars. As loan rejections increase, demand at the affordable end of the market could soften, prompting dealerships to rethink inventory sourcing, emphasize more flexible financing structures, or increase marketing spend to stay competitive.

Gen Z Feels the Crunch

Rising vehicle prices add another layer of difficulty. The average new-car transaction price now hovers around $50,000, putting many younger buyers at a disadvantage. Even a basic regular-cab Ford F-150 with limited features already starts at around $39,000.

FICO also reported that the average Gen Z credit score has dropped to 676, marking the group’s largest year-over-year decline since 2020. The firm noted that 34% of Gen Z consumers carry active student loans, and nearly half use credit cards or Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) services.

Whether this trend will ultimately weaken the used-car market—particularly the budget segment—remains to be seen. But interestingly, FICO says people are now 19% more likely to pay their car loan than their mortgage.

This strain on younger borrowers reflects a broader pressure across the auto-finance landscape. According to CBS 8, more than 2.2 million vehicles have been repossessed so far this year, putting the market on a trajectory comparable to the levels seen during the Great Recession in 2009. While economists do not currently expect an imminent collapse, further stress is possible if borrowing conditions worsen.

One way Gen Z is dealing with rising costs is by taking advantage of telematics-based insurance apps that hand out discounts for safe driving. It’s not glamorous, but it helps.

The P0351 code means your engine control module (ECM) has detected a malfunction in the ignition coil “A” primary/secondary circuit, which corresponds to cylinder 1 on most engines. When this circuit fails, the ECM cannot properly control the ignition coil (below) that’s responsible for generating the high-voltage spark to ignite the air-fuel mixture. As a result, the engine may run roughly, misfire, or lose power, and will log this ignition coil code.

This code is common across many brands, and because it’s a generic error, P0351 on Ford vehicles means the same as P0351 on Toyota or any other vehicles, and always refers to the same P0351 ignition coil A primary/secondary circuit malfunction. Because the ignition coil is critical to engine operation, the problem should be diagnosed and repaired quickly to avoid long-term damage to the catalytic converter or ignition system. It is very similar to the ignition coil B primary/secondary circuit error, which has the P0352 code.

What the P0351 Code Means

Modern engines rely on coil-on-plug (COP) ignition systems, where each cylinder has its own ignition coil. This coil receives a low-voltage signal from the ECM and converts it into a very high voltage—often 20,000 volts or more—to fire the spark plug.

When the ECM detects:

• An open circuit,
• A short to ground,
• A short to voltage, or
• An abnormal coil current pattern,

…it will trigger P0351, indicating the ignition coil “A” circuit is not operating as expected.

Because coil “A” corresponds to cylinder number 1 on most engines, the ECM may also trigger related misfire codes such as P0301 (cylinder 1 misfire).

Common Causes of P0351

Here are the most frequent culprits behind the P0351 code:

1. A faulty ignition coil (most common). Coils wear out over time due to vibration, heat, and internal electrical failure.
2. A damaged spark plug (below) or spark plug boot. A worn spark plug increases resistance and forces the coil to work harder until it fails.
3. Wiring problems. This includes broken wires, corroded connectors, loose coil connectors, and shorted wires contacting metal parts. Because the coil relies on precise electrical control, even small wiring issues can trigger P0351.
4. A faulty ECM driver circuit. If the ECM cannot properly control the ignition coil, the circuit may appear to be open or shorted, triggering the code.
5. Oil or moisture intrusion. Oil leaking into the spark plug well (common in Toyota and Nissan engines), or water intrusion can disrupt the coil circuit.

Symptoms of the P0351 Code

The symptoms vary depending on how severely the coil circuit is compromised:

• The Check Engine Light (CEL) is on
• An engine misfire, especially on cylinder 1
• A rough idle
• Poor acceleration or hesitation
• Increased fuel consumption
• Hard starting
• The engine won’t start, orlimp mode will be activated in severe cases

Because misfires can damage the catalytic converter over time, the issue should not be ignored.

How to Diagnose P0351

A professional or DIY diagnosis typically follows these steps:

1. Scan for additional error codes. Misfire codes like P0301 or fuel-trim codes may help to verify that the failure is isolated to cylinder 1.
2. Inspect the ignition coil. Remove coil “A” (cylinder 1) and look for cracks, burn marks, corrosion, melted plastic, or oil contamination.
3. Swap the coil to another cylinder. If you move the coil to cylinder 2 and the misfire follows and becomes P0302, the coil is bad.
4. Inspect the wiring and connectors. Check for broken or frayed wires, green corrosion, loose terminals, and moisture inside connectors. Wiggle-testing the harness while the engine runs can help to locate intermittent faults.
5. Check the spark plug and boot. Worn plugs or cracked boots can cause coil circuit strain.
6. Test the ECM coil driver (advanced). If the coil and wiring check out, test the ECM’s pulsed control signal using an oscilloscope. If no signal is present, the ECM driver circuit may be faulty.

Common Repairs for P0351

Important: Always first diagnose the root cause. Replacing a coil without fixing a wiring problem may cause the new coil to fail again.

Prevention Tips

• Replace the spark plugs at the recommended intervals
• Keep oil leaks under control (especially leaks from valve cover gaskets)
• Avoid washing the engine bay with high-pressure water
• Use high-quality ignition coils to avoid premature failure

FAQs

Q: How to fix error code P0351?

A: Start by inspecting the spark plug and ignition coil for damage. If they look fine, check wiring and connectors. In most cases, replacing the ignition coil fixes the issue.

Q: Which coil is P0351 for?

A: Coil “A”, which is typically cylinder number 1 on most engines. Always verify with your service manual for your specific vehicle.

Q: Can a bad spark plug cause a P0351?

A: Yes, a damaged or worn plug forces the ignition coil to work harder, which can trigger this code.

Q: What is the code for a bad ignition coil?

A: Common ignition coil codes include P0350 through P0362, where each corresponds to a specific cylinder. P0351 = Ignition Coil A, or cylinder 1.

Final Thoughts

P0351 is a clear sign of an ignition problem affecting cylinder 1. While the vehicle may continue running, ignoring the issue risks worsening performance and damaging the catalytic converter. Fortunately, the fix is often simple, with most cases requiring nothing more than a new ignition coil or spark plug, along with verifying wiring integrity.

McCormick told the station that he was driving his Ioniq 5 when a water bottle in the second-row seat tipped over and leaked onto the floor. Not long after, warning lights began flashing across the dashboard, and the all-electric vehicle eventually became unresponsive.

The Real Shock Was The Invoice

A Hyundai dealer later defended the Ioniq 5’s design, emphasizing that the problem was not caused by a manufacturing defect. Instead, the dealer argued that water—and even sand trapped in the floorboards—led to damage in sensitive electrical components. His insurer, State Farm, also declined coverage, stating that vehicles exposed to long-term moisture or corrosion-related damage fall outside the scope of what they insure.

Because of this, McCormick was stuck with an $11,882 estimate for the floor harness and the driver-seat wiring harness replacements.

Modern electric vehicles use flat, slab-like batteries and power modules, so engineers typically place major components beneath the flooring instead of under the hood like a gas car. That’s why EVs such as the Ford Mustang Mach-E—the Ioniq 5’s electric compact crossover rival—often include a “frunk,” since the front no longer houses an engine.

In theory, this layout could give McCormick some benefit of the doubt, as water may have seeped downward into crucial electronics. Still, without detailed documentation, pinpointing the exact failure is difficult. It’s worth noting that EV high-voltage parts are typically sealed to common automotive IP-style protection standards, often designed to prevent dust intrusion and resist short-term water exposure.

Now facing a five-digit repair bill, McCormick told the station, “I was shocked. I was panicked, to be honest with you.”

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 starts at around $35,000 in the U.S. The South Korean marque also offers other EV options, including the streamlined Ioniq 6 and the three-row Ioniq 9.

His mother, Brandi Canada-Green, was also tied to the incident. Investigators say Daniels allegedly blasted past 100 mph in a 25-mph zone in an attempt to distract officers who were stopping his mother for running a stop sign in a Nissan Rogue. She reportedly blocked one of the patrol cars while Daniels fled, later reaching an estimated 150 mph on I-85—an extremely dangerous speed, especially with his younger siblings in the vehicle.

Not even the M5 could outrun reality

Daniels was able to reach those speeds because the BMW M5 is far from an ordinary luxury sedan. The “M” badge signals BMW’s high-performance division, and the 2022 M5, built under the previous F90 generation, packs a 4.4-liter S63 twin-turbo V8 producing close to 600 horsepower.

Beyond the reckless driving, Daniels was reportedly confrontational. Officers say he told them, “Y’all can’t drive.” In response, police emphasized that they refuse to endanger the public by engaging in risky high-speed pursuits.

“We don't have the ability just to run a stop sign or a red light without using due regard. So every time we obey those laws as best we can, while we’re keeping up with this, they're just creating distance. So of course, you're going to out-drive us,” Commerce Police Chief Jeff Drossman said.

Daniels ultimately turned himself in after speaking with his coach, surrendering both to authorities and handing over the M5 used during the chase. Police also reported detecting the smell of marijuana inside the performance sedan.

Reports indicate that bonds were set at $21,000 and $11,000 for Daniels and his mother, respectively.

Reddit user AliensExist_- shared the experience in r/CadillacLyriq, explaining how a San Francisco–based dealership derailed what was supposed to be a $47,000 deal. According to the post, the sales manager—who had not been involved at any point during the earlier discussions—suddenly changed the pricing that the general manager had given the day before.

Plot Twist No One Saw Coming

But it wasn’t just about the numbers. The sales manager was reportedly rude throughout the encounter, even snatching the quote sheet from the buyer as they walked out. As the OP put it: “He did nothing but unnecessarily escalate a situation instead of answering questions customers deserve an answer to when making a large purchase.”

On Cadillac’s website, a 2025 Lyriq Luxury 1 starts at $58,595 for the rear-wheel-drive model, with AWD costing roughly $3,000 more. That means the original $47K figure was likely a discounted lease-adjusted amount, potentially including incentives and the now-discontinued $7,500 EV tax credit. With the federal credit ending at the time, it’s possible the generous structure wasn’t sitting well with the sales manager—but that part remains unclear.

What we do know is that the OP ultimately ended up leasing the Lyriq from the same dealership.

Competing with models like the Tesla Model Y, the 2025 Lyriq Luxury 1 is an all-electric midsize crossover offering an EPA-rated 326 miles of range for the RWD version and 319 miles for AWD (the extra motor adds weight and slightly reduces range). It’s also a more accessible model within Cadillac’s electric lineup, positioned below the larger and more premium Vistiq and Escalade IQ, with the Optiq being the brand’s entry-level EV.

Despite the unpleasant hiccup, the buyer said the actual leasing process was smooth—adding that “one bad apple doesn’t mean everyone else is bad.”

The P2135 code indicates that the engine control module (ECM) has detected a mismatch between the voltage signals of Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) A and TPS B (image below). These dual sensors work together to monitor throttle angle in modern cars’ drive-by-wire systems, ensuring smooth engine response and, more importantly, preventing unintended acceleration. When the two signals don’t align within the expected correlation range, the ECM triggers the P2135 code, shuts down throttle authority, and may put the vehicle into limp mode for safety.

You’ll see this fault frequently across many brands, as this is a generic diagnostic trouble code (DTC), so the P2135 code on Chevy models means the same as P2135 on Nissan, Ford, Toyota, and any other models using electronically controlled throttle bodies, and which run on the OBD-II diagnostic standard used since 1996. Let’s look at how to fix code P2135 on your car.

What the P2135 Code Means

Most modern engines no longer use a physical cable between the gas pedal and the throttle body; instead, the ECM receives signals from:

• TPS A – the primary throttle position sensor
• TPS B – the redundant sensor for safety verification
• Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) sensors

The ECM constantly compares the signals from TPS A and TPS B. When their voltages disagree—whether due to a wiring issue, failing sensor, or mechanical throttle body problem—the ECM assumes that throttle control is no longer reliable.

To prevent unsafe acceleration, the ECM may:

• Limit engine revs
• Disable throttle movement
• Reduce the engine power (limp mode)
• Turn on the Check Engine Light (CEL)

Because discrepancies can indicate unsafe operation, P2135 is considered a high-priority code.

Common Causes of the P2135 Engine Code

Here are the most frequent issues responsible for P2135 throttle position sensor correlation faults:

1. A failed throttle body (very common). Many vehicles use integrated TPS sensors built into the throttle body, and when the internal sensors fail, the entire throttle body has to be replaced.
2. A sticking or dirty throttle plate. Carbon buildup can cause the plate to bind or move inconsistently, leading to mismatched sensor readings.
3. A faulty Throttle Position Sensor (TPS). If your vehicle has replaceable TPS sensors, either the A or B sensor may have failed.
4. Damaged wiring or connectors. Even small resistance changes can throw off sensor correlation. Look for:

• Corroded terminals
• Broken wires
• Loose connectors
• Moisture intrusion

1. A bad Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) sensor (below). Though the APP sensor isn't the direct cause of the P2135 code, it can confuse throttle calculations and contribute to correlation issues.
2. A faulty ECM (rare). If the ECM misinterprets sensor data, it may trigger false throttle correlation errors.

Symptoms of the P2135 Code

Depending on how severe the voltage discrepancy is, you may experience one or more of the following symptoms:

• The Check Engine Light
• Poor throttle response
• An unsteady or high idle
• Engine stumbling or hesitation
• Reduced engine power and/or activation of limp mode
• The engine won’t accelerate past low RPM
• A sudden loss of throttle while driving (safety mode)

Most drivers notice the engine becomes unresponsive or sluggish, especially when pressing the gas pedal.

How to Diagnose the P2135 Code

Professional diagnosis typically includes to:

1. Scan for related throttle error codes. Codes like P0121, P0222, P2138, and P2101 may accompany P2135 and help narrow the cause.
2. Inspect the throttle body (image below). Check for:

• Heavy carbon buildup
• A sticking throttle plate
• Dirt around the bore
• Physical damage

1. Inspect the wiring and connectors. Broken wires are very common, especially on GM trucks and SUVs, which could trigger P2135 on Chevy and GMC models. Focus on:

• The throttle body harness
• The APP sensor connector
• The ECM connector
• Shared grounds

1. Test the TPS A and TPS B voltage. Any hesitation, mismatch, or drop-out confirms the fault. Using a multimeter, slowly open and close the throttle. The voltage must increase smoothly. Both sensors must track each other consistently.
2. Test the accelerator pedal position sensor. APP sensors also provide redundant signals, and mismatches here can impact throttle correlation.
3. Check the ECM’s operation (if all else checks out). This is only done after all mechanical and electrical causes are eliminated.

Common Repairs for the P2135 Code

Always clear codes and perform a drive cycle after repairs. If the P1000 code appears, the drive cycle wasn’t long enough.

FAQs

Q: How to reset the gas pedal sensor?

A: Most vehicles require either an ECM idle/throttle relearn or a manual pedal reset procedure, often involving key-on/key-off sequences. Your vehicle’s service manual will list the correct steps.

Q: How much does it cost to fix code P2135?

A: Typical repair costs:

• Throttle body replacement: $250–$650
• TPS replacement: $80–$200
• APP sensor replacement: $150–$300
• Wiring repair: $50–$150

Q: Can a bad throttle body cause P2135?

A: Yes; in fact, it’s the #1 cause. Internal TPS sensors often fail before the throttle body’s motor or gears do.

Q: How do you fix throttle position correlation?

A: Fixes include:

• Cleaning or replacing the throttle body
• Repairing the wiring
• Replacing the TPS or APP sensors
• Performing a throttle relearn procedure

Final Thoughts

The P2135 code is a serious drive-by-wire fault that affects throttle accuracy and safety. While the vehicle may still run, limp mode and power loss make continued driving inconvenient and potentially turn you into a hazard in traffic. Fortunately, the root cause is usually straightforward, with the throttle body or TPS sensors being the most common failures.

For the uninitiated, Quattro is Audi’s all-wheel-drive system, functioning as the brand’s counterpart to BMW’s xDrive and Mercedes-Benz’s 4MATIC. The technology became iconic in the early 1980s when Audi began dominating the World Rally Championship as the sport entered the Group B era—a period remembered for its relatively loose regulations and extremely fast cars, which ultimately contributed to several fatal crashes before the class was discontinued.

Quattro Isn’t Just for Marketing Brochures

Audi continues to benefit from the reputation it earned back then, with legendary models like the Sport Quattro S1 E2 reflecting that era’s engineering spirit. Today, Quattro remains a staple across many Audi models equipped with AWD, including what looks like a third-generation A6 (C6) in this clip—likely the facelifted version sold around 2009.

Semi-trucks like the one seen here, including the trailer, can weigh around 30,000 lbs when empty. For comparison, even the Tesla Cybertruck—marketed as one of the toughest electric pickups on the road—has a maximum towing capacity of 11,000 lbs. Add the slick, snow-covered ground into the mix, and the challenge becomes even more impressive.

The A6 managed it through Quattro’s ability to adjust the front-to-rear torque split. In the footage, the rear wheels appear to do more of the work, reflecting how the system automatically adapts to maximize grip and efficiency.

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The exact engine in this particular Audi isn’t confirmed, but the hashtag used (#30tdi) suggests it may be the 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6. Diesel engines are generally well-suited for situations like this because they tend to produce stronger low-end torque than comparable gasoline engines, which can help when pulling heavy loads at low speeds.

And of course, while the Quattro system deserves praise, the driver also deserves credit. They had the feel to balance throttle inputs, modulate traction, and steer with precision.

According to TikTok user @everything_bylaneise, the AI chatbot suggested she get a junkyard rear shock absorber, which cost just $50. That’s saving 56 times the cost of the original estimate. She documented herself replacing the rear shock with the junkyard part, and the process appeared far less complicated than bringing her Fusion back to the shop.

@everything_bylaneise

On a mission. 🚗🛠️ #carmaintenance #tiktokautocampaign

♬ outstanding nola bounce remix - VIP

AI: 1, Mechanic: 0

The thing about social media is that full context is often trimmed or reshaped to make content more entertaining. In this case, dodging a $2,800 repair with a $50 junkyard solution recommended by AI does sound amusing. However, considering the Fusion is a mass-market sedan—not a luxury model from brands like Mercedes-Benz—the original quote may have included more than just a single rear shock, potentially bundling additional suspension parts and labor.

Needless to say, a brand-new suspension setup would do wonders for the car; it would improve ride comfort, enhance stability during cornering, eliminate clunks, and help reduce premature tire wear.

To give the Ford owner the benefit of the doubt, using a junkyard component can be acceptable as a temporary fix, especially if the budget is tight. After all, the Fusion—discontinued after the 2020 model year in the U.S.—is a front-wheel-drive-based (AWD was optional), front-engine sedan, meaning the rear suspension is generally less critical than the front.

The owner mentioned that her next project was fixing the A/C system. Well, if she really saved around $2,750 on that rear suspension job, she could easily put that toward a proper long-term A/C repair. Or, who knows—maybe she’ll simply ask ChatGPT for advice again.

TikToker @desertmountainbiker said his 2017 Nissan Maxima — with around 77,000 miles — went into limp mode before he brought it to a shop for diagnostics. The scan reportedly pulled a P17F1 code, which refers to CVT judder, typically linked to clutch deterioration, hydraulic pressure issues, or degraded CVT fluid.

The Code No Nissan Owner Wants

If the problem had been limited to the control software, the fix could have been far simpler — the common repairs for P17F1 can include fluid service, valve-body work, or software updates.

However, a few days later, the owner updated his TikTok followers, explaining that he ultimately had to replace the entire transmission. He said the job cost $6,600, but the dealer provided a Goodwill discount that cut the bill in half, a detail he confirmed in the comment section of his video. He also mentioned being loaned a Nissan Rogue.

He added — somewhat ironically — that the Rogue also uses a CVT, and that he “won’t buy one” in the future.

Still, it’s worth noting that Nissan gave its CVT a major overhaul in 2017, and the number of issues has dropped since then. Automakers continue using CVTs because they generally deliver better fuel efficiency than traditional torque-converter automatics, helping boost EPA fuel-economy ratings. Nissan does still use non-CVT automatics — mainly in its higher-torque or performance-oriented models like the Titan and the Z, with the latter’s Nismo trim reportedly in line to receive a manual option soon.

@desertmountainbiker

I’m aware of problems with the CVT on Nissan cars. I did have the transmission fluid flushed and replaced about a year ago. Any advice or knowledge about this is appreciated. #nissancvt #transmissionproblems #nissanproblems #limpmode

♬ original sound - desertmountainbiker

So while CVTs aren’t disappearing anytime soon, the Maxima itself has. It was discontinued after the 2023 model year as buyers continue shifting toward crossovers and SUVs.

The changes made to the MY2024 Tesla Model 3 inside and out have substantially improved the popular compact electric sedan, and those cabin refinements have now finally reached the interior of the 2026 Model Y as well. The revamped Model 3 has now been on sale for 2 years and has continued largely unchanged, save for a trim rename this year and the return of the turn signal stalk after much criticism. The cabin is comfortable and adequately roomy, and it's a nicer place to spend time than before, thanks to more premium materials and lower noise levels.

Interior Highlights

Standout cabin features include:

• Phone key makes your smartphone your car key, automatically locking and unlocking the car as you come and go, and automatically connecting to the car as you get in.
• With Tesla Arcade, you can play games on the touchscreen and connect a game controller via Bluetooth.
• Dog Mode keeps your dog warm or cool while you’re away alerts passers-by to the cabin temperature on the touchscreen.

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• Remote climate control heats or cools the cabin before you get in.
• The available $8,000 Tesla FSD (Supervised Full Self Driving) can do a lot of the driving for you.
• An 8-inch climate control touchscreen is standard for the second row on all trims above Standard; it can also be used to view movies or play games.

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Comparison with the 2023 Tesla Model 3 Interior

The new Model 3 interior arrived for the 2024 model year, adding double-layer acoustic glass with better sound insulation, ambient lighting in the dashboard and door panels, and upgraded cabin materials. Ventilated front seats are available for the first time, coming as standard on all trims above Standard. 

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In the rear of the Tesla Model 3 interior, back seat comfort has been improved with a slightly reconfigured bench with a softer, higher cushion and adjustable backrest angle. An indicator stalk has also made a welcome return to the steering column, which is now power-adjustable in all trims above Standard. The suspension has been tweaked for better comfort.

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Comfort and Space

The interior is comfortable thanks to supportive front seats and the new, reconfigured rear seat arrangement. The front cabin feels roomy, helped by the flat floor, but there is no more than adequate space in the rear, and tall adults will feel cramped. The Model Y is significantly roomier in the second row, with a lot more leg- and headroom. Here are the basic dimensions:

Features Comparison of Model 3 Trims

Standard features on all trims include:

• 15.4-inch front infotainment touchscreen with Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube apps, video games, Wi-Fi, navigation, live weather tracking, Bluetooth, Tesla Theater, and cellular data
• Panoramic glass roof

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• Particulate and odor cabin filter
• Front row touchscreen-adjusted air vents
• 2x wireless phone chargers
• 4x USB-C charging ports
• Aluminum and premium textile decor

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• Front power recline seats
• Footwell and door pocket ambient lighting

• Heated front seats
• Heated steering wheel

Here’s a trim comparison of the features that aren’t standard on all trims:

Legend: S standard; O optional; - not available

The Downsides

Not everyone will love the Model 3’s severely minimalist interior. The over-reliance on touchscreens and the dearth of buttons can leave you at a loss until you learn the ropes, but at least there’s an indicator stalk again, and no sign of the awful steering yoke. The rear seat is not as accommodating as that of some rivals, though, and no place for tall adults. Last of all, people used to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto might not be happy having to do without them and having to use Tesla’s native connectivity tech.

Colors and Materials

The Standard’s cabin is all-black interior with a blend of textile/leatherette upholstery and textile for the details and decor. All the other trims come with perforated “vegan leather” (leatherette) upholstery with microsuede/textile details and decor. The Premium and Performance can also be had with either a black or black/white interior, with white door inserts and seats. Only the Performance has microsuede/carbon fiber decor.

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FAQs

Q: Is the Tesla Model 3 interior comfortable?

A: Yes, seating comfort is good front and rear, and there is plenty of space in the first row. The second row is short on room for tall adults and better suited to those of shorter stature.

Q: Which is the cheapest Tesla Model 3?

A: The Standard RWD is the cheapest 2026 model, with a base MSRP of $36,990 at the time of writing.

Q: Is the Tesla Model 3 or S bigger?

A: The Model 3 is a compact sedan with a length of 185.8 inches, and the Model S is 10 inches longer at 195.7 inches, placing it at the upper end of the mid-size sedan category.

Final Thoughts

The Model 3’s cabin refinement and quality are up to scratch compared to rivals, thanks to the MY2024 improvements, and the cabin is a tech fest, with cool features like Dog Mode, arcade games, and a rear-seat climate screen that can also be used for split-screen gaming being highlights not found on rivals. But if you need good rear-seat space, it’s better to opt for the Model Y, because here, the Model 3 falls short.

There have been reports in the news for a couple of years now that it’s quite easy to steal cars with keyless entry systems, so this article will tell you how to prevent keyless car theft. A keyless entry system is one where you don’t have to put a key in a keyhole to open your car; you simply press a button on a remote to unlock or walk up to the car in the case of totally hands-free systems, and the car unlocks when you get close and touch the door handle.

But it’s possible to hack and bypass these systems and clone the key fobs, so an unauthorized person can gain entry to your car and steal it. What kind of car theft prevention devices do you need to avoid something like this happening to you? Let us look at how to prevent key fob cloning, so your car doesn’t get stolen from under your nose.

What Is Car Key Cloning?

This is the process of copying the electronic data on the car key, including the transponder chip and keyless entry signal, to create a new, identical key to gain access to the car. This may form part of a legitimate service that locksmiths provide to create a spare key fob for your car, but criminals can also employ the same techniques to make a clone of your car’s key data to gain access to it and start it. 

Usually, thieves wait nearby, within range of your key signal but out of sight. They intercept and amplify the signal when you lock or unlock your car to create their cloned key. With totally hands-free systems, they don’t even have to do that, they can simply be outside your house in close proximity to your key to clone it.

Effective Keyless-Entry Car Theft Prevention

The best keyless car theft prevention is common sense and vigilance. This is what you can do:

Make Sure Your Car Is Actually Locked

As a matter of course, never walk away from your car unless you are sure that it is actually locked. Look for the locking plungers to move, listen for the click, and watch for the indicators blinking or the audible squeak to make sure the car has locked itself. Make sure the trunk is also properly latched and locked, and that you haven’t left anything valuable in your car that may entice a thief to break in.

Beware of Signal Jamming

There are many types of key fobs, and their signals can often be jammed by a hidden thief nearby using another remote control device while you’re pressing yours to lock your car. Jamming the signal in this way renders your remote ineffective in that moment, so it fails to communicate with the car and lock it. If you simply walk away, thinking your car is locked, without confirming that it is, you leave an open car for the thieves to get into.

Store Your Car Keys Safely

You may have heard someone say aluminum foil can shield your key from hackers, and it may sound like a hoax to you, but it isn’t. But why wrap car keys in aluminum foil? Because it’s important to shield your key from being cloned when you store it in your house, putting it in any type of Faraday cage that prevents any signal from coming in or going out from the key will do the trick, including aluminum foil. 

Store your keys in the back of your house, far from your car and passers-by in the street, and from any exterior doors and windows. You can put the key in your microwave (don’t switch it on!) or store it in an aluminum foil-lined box or in a special RFID case or Faraday pouch made for the purpose (photo above), which can shield against digital pickpocketing. Kim Komando explains how this works:

Deactivate Your Car Key

Some keys have a procedure for turning them off completely when stored and not needed, so there’s no signal to intercept and amplify. You may have to double-click a button or press buttons in a specific order, so check your manual to see if your car’s keys have this functionality.

Don’t Park Your Car on the Street

If you have a lockup garage, park your car inside if possible, and not on the street, to make it more difficult to steal. Many thieves are opportunistic and go for easier targets, so anything that makes it more difficult to get to your car helps. Also store the keys and remote controls for your garage doors in the same Faraday cage as your car keys.

Other Anti-Car Theft Devices

If you have to park on the street, you can use other, more conventional anti-theft devices in combination with secure key storage to discourage opportunistic thieves. For example, a big and obvious steering-wheel lock or a shifter lock. You can also install an additional immobilizer or alarm. The best systems cost a few hundred dollars, but come with apps and remote controls, so you can check if your car is long from some distance away. Other effective anti-theft measures include installing a tracking device in your car and putting up CCTV cameras where your car is parked.

Perform All Software Updates

Manufacturers are constantly updating their cars’ infotainment and security software, so keep up with your updates to make sure you have the latest and most secure software. In many modern cars, this can be done over the air, and you don’t have to take your car to the dealership for an update.

Have Your Key Reprogrammed

This may be something to consider if you’re buying a used car, and you don’t know if someone else may already have made a copy of the electronic key that they can use to steal your car, or if the previous owner kept a copy of the key.

Final Thoughts

With some vigilance and common sense, you can avoid becoming one of the keyless car theft statistics. Always be aware of your surroundings when locking and unlocking, and keep an eye out for shifty characters nearby. Always make sure your car is actually locked and store your keys securely, so they can’t be hacked. Finally, keep your car software up to date.

The 1989 Ford F-150 truck in Walking Tall - the 2004 movie starring protagonist “The Rock” Dwayne Johnson as Chris Vaughn - may not be quite as famous as the 1972 F-100 in Gran Torino or the 1985 Toyota Hilux from Back to the Future, but it’s still left its mark in movie history, and it’s no ordinary F-150 either. And they hardly could’ve picked a better villain than Neal McDonough playing Jay Hamilton.

The movie may feature a predictable plot about a bad guy corrupting a once innocent town and our returning war hero taking him on, but it’s full of just the kind of violence and action you’d expect from the vigilante action genre. It does gain a sense of authenticity thanks to having been inspired by the story of real-life wrestler-turned-sheriff Buford Pusser. If you have a bit of time, here’s the full story of the legend of Sheriff Pusser:

Chris Vaughn’s Walking Tall Truck: 1989 Ford F-150 “Brick Nose”

The squared-off frontal aspect of the boxy 8th-generation F-150 Regular Cab short box Chris Vaughn drives earned it the nickname “Brick Nose” among fans, and the one in the movie has been modified. Changes compared to the regular F-150 included:

• A suspension system lifted by at least 4 inches
• Chrome-finish 15-inch American Racing Machined AR61 Outlaw I wheels
• 35-inch BF Goodrich Radial Mud-Terrain tires
• A custom dark-green paint job
• Black-out treatment for the grille and bumpers
• Sheriff stickers and lights, once Vaughn becomes sheriff

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The choice of the no-nonsense “Brick Nose” for Walking Tall’s Ford truck model - and the changes made to it - transformed the standard F-150 into the type of menacing vehicle that was just perfect for the movie’s lead. The stunning American Racing wheels can still be bought new today, but the tires have been discontinued. 

The Walking Tall F-150 was probably fitted with a 4.9L V8 engine, because we can’t see a macho protagonist like Vaughn pootling around in the weedy base 150-hp 6-cylinder. In one of the memorable scenes loved by car spotters, Vaughn’s truck is being made to look even taller thanks to a low camera angle as it pulls up behind the antagonist’s 996-gen Porsche 911 Convertible. Sadly, the truck meets its end in a spectacular explosion from a bomb set off by the bad guy, leaving our leading man without a set of wheels, but he gets the last laugh as it all works out in the end to end the madman’s reign of terror.

This is what the standard Mk8 F-150 Regular Cab with the short bed would have looked like at the time:

The Truck as a Character

The director was very specific about the characters’ vehicles, and the F-150 used was the ideal truck for Vaughn. It’s big, boxy, and buff, like its owner, and exudes a tough and rugged image that symbolizes Vaughn’s strength and determination as he fights for justice. The new sheriff of Walking Tall’s truck is a reliable workhorse capable of handling challenges in a rough world - character traits also belonging to Vaughn. It becomes an active tool Vaughn uses to pursue justice, and even though it’s blown up in the end, the protagonist lives - and is victorious.

The 8th-Gen Ford F-150

The 8th generation of the Ford F-150 debuted in 1986 as a 1987 model, and it’s almost funny to read today how Ford made it more streamlined, given its blunt “Brick Nose” profile. Nevertheless, it was a more modern redesign of the familiar Ford truck, and the first American truck to feature the new composite-style headlights and standard rear anti-lock brakes. Contributing to the clean-cut and boxy looks was the fact that the Mk8 was only offered with the straight Styleside beds; the previous generation’s Flareside bed was no longer available.

Final Thoughts

The Walking Tall movie may not have the enduring legacy of an Oscar winner, but it’s a story of grit and determination, and its main character is one of the most beloved American actors, driving a rugged American truck. Through violence and bloodshed, balance is restored to the once-peaceful town as the villain is defeated and the hero saves the day. It’s been done to death, but we love it, and it’s another example of a movie vehicle that’s been tailored to perfectly complement its owner and its mission statement. The truck might have gone up in smoke in the end, but the hero is left walking tall.

Mentioning a fixed motto, like the discipline behind any classic Toyota slogan, would actually feel out of place for Lamborghini. The brand never wanted to lock itself into one line. Instead, it let each model express its own personality through short-lived but memorable taglines.

In this article, we explore those taglines, explain where they came from, uncover a few hidden discoveries, and show how this unconventional strategy helped Lamborghini become one of the most recognizable luxury brands on the planet. You'll also see how identity-driven communication evolved from the Countach era to the hybrid age of the Revuelto and Temerario.

Timeline of Lamborghini's Campaign Taglines

Below is a chronological list of campaign taglines from the most recent to the earliest notable examples, including a few you found in brochures. These aren't long-term global slogans, but short-lived campaign lines that defined each period.

Deep Dive Into the Most Iconic Lamborghini Taglines

"Expect the Unexpected" (2011–2014)

This tagline became one of Lamborghini's most widely recognized marketing lines. It reflected a company entering the digital age with a renewed sense of confidence. The Aventador LP700-4 looked like nothing else on the road, and the message fit perfectly: a Lamborghini should surprise you, overwhelm you, or even shock you the moment you see it.

Why it worked so well:

• It matched the brand's extreme, angular design language.
• It was short, repeatable, and easy for fans to quote online.
• It brought consistency to an era when Lamborghini was gaining massive global attention.

Its tone is very different from something analytical or heritage-driven, like what you find in articles exploring McLaren colors, which lean more toward precision and engineering lineage.

"Beyond the Limits" (2018–2021)

This tagline pushed Lamborghini into the realm of measurable performance. During these years, the company was breaking Nürburgring records and promoting the technical sophistication of ALA (Aerodinamica Lamborghini Attiva).

Why it mattered:

• It helped Lamborghini prove it wasn't all show — it could deliver numbers.
• It aligned with a global shift toward performance validation through racetrack results.
• It established the Huracán Performante and Aventador SVJ as legitimate track weapons.

"Unlock Any Road" — The Dedicated Urus Tagline

Many readers ask: What is the slogan for the Lamborghini Urus?
This is the correct answer: "Unlock Any Road."

This line appeared during the first-generation Urus launch and positioned the SUV as a flexible, go-anywhere luxury performance vehicle. Lamborghini chose this tagline to open doors to new types of customers — families, business owners, and first-time Lamborghini buyers who valued utility alongside the badge.

Unofficial or Short-Lived Taglines

Several taglines appeared briefly in brochures or special editions. These never became global messaging, but they add richness to the brand's history:

• "For Bar Raisers Only" — Urus S / Urus Performante brochure line.
• "You Can't Hide Who You Are" — Temerario launch message.
• "Sharper Than Ever" — Diablo-era design line.
• "Driven by Instinct" — Countach 25th Anniversary theme.
• "The Real Power Is Within" — Early Gallardo tone.
• "A New Icon Rising" — Aventador S marketing tagline.
• "A Statement Beyond Speed" — 1970s Urraco/Countach brochure style.

None of these survived long-term because Lamborghini's marketing approach always favored images over words.

Hidden Facts & Trivia

Here are a few behind-the-scenes notes that help readers understand Lamborghini's slogan history:

Lamborghini's earliest Miura brochures featured almost no text — visuals did the talking.

"Follow No One" generated minor controversy in parts of Europe for sounding overly rebellious in regulated ad spaces.

The Urus has featured more distinct taglines than any other Lamborghini model due to its broad customer base.

Revuelto-era marketing intentionally avoids fixed lines to stay flexible as electrification evolves.

Some fan-made interpretations of old posters have circulated online for years, similar to how enthusiasts discuss Maserati Ghibli maintenance in every corner of the internet.

Lamborghini tends to drop taglines quickly, making original brochures highly collectible among enthusiasts.

FAQ Section

What is the famous quote of Lamborghini?

Lamborghini has never had one official, global slogan. However, "Expect the Unexpected" is the most widely recognized modern tagline associated with the brand.

What is the slogan for the Lamborghini Urus?

The primary Urus slogan is "Unlock Any Road."
Recent brochures have also used "For Bar Raisers Only" during the Urus S and Urus Performante campaigns.

Why doesn't Lamborghini use a single global slogan?

Because Lamborghini relies on design, emotion, and visual identity more than repeated statements. Each era and model speaks for itself through short-lived campaign lines.

Which Lamborghini tagline is considered the most iconic?

"Expect the Unexpected" remains the most widely recognized and widely shared slogan in Lamborghini's modern history.

Did Lamborghini use slogans in the 1970s and 1980s?

Yes, occasionally — but inconsistently. Lines such as "A Statement Beyond Speed" and "Driven by Instinct" appeared in niche brochures or regional advertisements.

Whether you're scared of driving, uneasy about driving on the highway, or noticing those unmistakable driving anxiety symptoms, you don't need to transform into a fearless driver overnight. What you need is reassurance, a realistic plan, and small steps that build confidence naturally. Let's break down what driving anxiety really is, why it happens, and how to gradually make driving feel more comfortable and less intimidating.

What Is Driving Anxiety?

Driving anxiety is the uneasy, sometimes overwhelming fear associated with being behind the wheel. It can appear as mental discomfort, physical tension, or a strong urge to avoid driving altogether. For some people, the experience is mild — a tightening in the chest or a sense of unease. For others, it can resemble a full internal alarm: a pounding heartbeat, trembling hands, shortness of breath, or the feeling of having no escape. These sensations can show up before you even touch the door handle or only in specific situations, like merging into fast traffic or entering a busy roundabout.

It doesn't present the same way for everyone. You might feel comfortable driving familiar routes, but tense up the moment you approach a highway entrance. Someone else may handle highways just fine yet dread crowded city streets. Others find night driving stressful or dislike long stretches without places to stop. What ties all these variations together is the mental overload — too many variables, too many decisions in too little time. Recognizing what driving anxiety feels like and when it tends to arise is a meaningful, steady step toward loosening its hold.

Why Does the Fear of Driving Happen?

There isn't a single cause behind driving anxiety; it usually develops through a combination of personal experiences, habits, and perceptions. For many, it follows a previous accident or even a close call — moments that leave a mark long after the vehicle has been repaired. Others worry about the possibility of something going wrong, even if they've never been in a collision. The fear of losing control, making an error, misunderstanding road signs, or reacting too slowly in a fast-moving situation can weigh heavily on the mind.

Some people feel overwhelmed in unfamiliar places or during moments that require rapid decisions. Heavy traffic, unexpected detours, complex junctions, or aggressive drivers can easily amplify nerves. Highway driving brings its own layers of pressure: higher speeds, limited stopping points, and the expectation to merge smoothly into fast-moving lanes. And of course, broader mental health factors — from generalized anxiety to panic disorder — can magnify driving-related fear, even though the root cause isn't actually the road itself.

Regardless of where your fear began, what matters most is that anxiety is not a permanent part of who you are. It's a pattern. And patterns can change.

City Driving vs. Highway Driving: Why They Feel So Different

Drivers tend to gravitate toward the environment that feels least stressful, and it's rarely the same for everyone. City driving, for example, offers a kind of built-in safety net. If anxiety spikes, you can pull over, hop on public transport, call a taxi, request an Uber, or even walk or cycle your way out of the situation. You're never too far from an alternative option. Yet city driving brings its own brand of frustration — bumper-to-bumper traffic, unpredictable pedestrians, aggressive lane changes, honking, narrow streets, and constant stop-and-go patterns that test your patience.

Highways, meanwhile, trigger a very different emotional response. They require faster decisions, smoother merging, and a commitment to higher speeds. Exits are farther apart, stopping points are limited, and once you're out there, you don't have immediate access to buses or taxis if anxiety suddenly hits. That lack of an escape route can make the whole environment feel more exposed, even if the road itself is perfectly safe. Understanding why these two settings produce such distinct reactions helps you see your fear as a natural human response to different driving demands — not a personal failure or flaw.

Every confident highway driver you've ever seen once felt unsure, too.

How to Get Over Driving Anxiety: A Realistic, Supportive Guide

Start by Identifying Your Triggers

Driving anxiety becomes easier to manage once you understand what sparks it. Instead of labeling yourself as "bad at driving," shift toward identifying the specific elements that unsettle you. Is it merging? High speeds? Aggressive drivers? Unfamiliar neighborhoods? Heavy rain? Night driving? The fear of getting lost? The thought of panicking? Once you recognize the moments that elevate your stress, you can begin addressing each one calmly and methodically.

Use Relaxation Techniques Before You Drive

A brief calming routine before you start the engine can transform the experience. Think of it the same way athletes warm up before a game — a few minutes that make everything smoother. Try slow, deep breaths. Loosen your shoulders and neck. Stretch your hands or rotate your wrists. Listen to a soothing voice or a quiet instrumental track. These simple actions lower your stress level and bring your mind into a more grounded state before you take off.

Build Confidence With Small, Manageable Drives

Gradual exposure is one of the most effective ways to soften anxiety. Start small: quiet parking lots, familiar short routes, or calm Sunday morning streets. As each environment becomes less intimidating, slowly increase the challenge — a slightly busier road, a longer stretch, or a low-traffic highway. Success in small steps builds confidence in big steps.

Courage isn't loud; it grows quietly every time you choose to try again.

Practice Visualization Before Getting on the Road

Close your eyes and picture yourself driving calmly. Visualize the steering wheel in your hands, your posture relaxed, your breathing steady. See yourself handling lane changes smoothly or navigating traffic with patience. Mental rehearsal primes your mind to behave accordingly.

Keep a Few Simple Affirmations for Tough Moments

Short reminders help anchor your thoughts when anxiety rises. Phrases like "I'm capable,” "I can handle this situation," or "It's okay to pull over and take a breath" can shift your mindset at the exact moment you need it.

Strengthen Your Knowledge So Uncertainty Doesn't Fuel Panic

A lot of fear comes from not knowing what to expect. Learning the "what-ifs" takes power away from them. If intersections make you nervous, reviewing rules like how to turn left on red can help. If you're worried about mistakes, knowing how points on the driving license work gives you clarity.

Use Calming Music, Podcasts, or Familiar Sounds

Sound can quietly shift your nervous system. A calm playlist or a soft-spoken podcast can soften tension and help maintain focus. And if car trouble scares you, understanding what happens when you drive with a flat tire can offer reassurance. Knowledge doesn't eliminate anxiety, but it gives you a stronger base.

Bring a Passenger on Early Practice Drives

A trusted friend or family member provides reassurance and breaks the feeling of isolation. They don't need to coach you — just being there is often enough to make the drive feel safer.

Handle Panic Attacks With a Gentle, Safe Approach

If panic begins to rise, signal calmly, pull over, put the car in park, and breathe slowly until your body settles. Keep your eyes open and ground yourself by noticing physical sensations — the seat, the steering wheel, the sounds around you. When you feel steady again, decide whether to continue or call someone for help.

You're not broken — you're learning.

Seek Professional Support When Anxiety Limits Your Mobility

If driving feels impossible or you avoid it entirely, a therapist familiar with anxiety or CBT can make a significant difference. Even a few sessions can reshape how your mind interprets driving situations. Seeking help is a practical step, not a sign of weakness.

Keep Practicing Even When Progress Is Slow

Driving confidence grows mile by mile. Every roundabout you handle calmly, every lane change you manage without tension, and every journey that ends safely becomes part of a new pattern. You're not aiming for perfection — you're aiming for freedom.

FAQ: Quick Answers About Driving Anxiety

Can the fear of driving go away?

Yes. With consistent practice, gradual exposure, and supportive techniques, most people learn how to get over driving anxiety and steadily grow more confident behind the wheel.

Why am I suddenly scared to drive?

Sudden fear can appear after stressful periods, recent negative events, or concerns about highway speeds or heavy traffic. Understanding your triggers helps you address them more easily.

Can you have a panic attack while driving?

Yes. If it happens, pull over safely, breathe slowly, and use grounding techniques. Most people regain calm within minutes.

What are the most common driving anxiety symptoms?

Fast heartbeat, trembling, sweating, shortness of breath, or feeling trapped. These sensations are uncomfortable but manageable with practice.

How do I start driving again if I'm scared to drive?

Begin in easy environments, practice short routes, use relaxation exercises, and gradually move toward more challenging situations as your confidence grows.

Final Thoughts

Driving anxiety isn't a personal flaw — it's simply a pattern your mind adopted over time. And like any pattern, it can be rewritten. Every calm start, every small win, every moment of trying again adds to a new driving story. Whether your goal is to feel comfortable on daily commutes or finally relax while driving on the highway, progress happens one steady mile at a time. You don't have to rush. You just have to begin.

The car is called Nilu, named after founder and CEO Sasha Selipanov’s daughters, Nica and Lucia. What makes it stand out is its mission: to deliver hypercar performance without leaning heavily on modern tech crutches like turbos or hybrid systems. The prototype targets around 1,070 horsepower—right in the same ballpark as the Mercedes-AMG One, which uses a hybrid powertrain derived from Formula 1.

A Hypercar That Still Has a Pulse

Selipanov isn’t just “some guy making a supercar.” His résumé includes work on the Lamborghini Huracán, Bugatti Chiron, and Volkswagen Jetta. He also served as Koenigsegg’s Head of Design, contributing to models like the four-seat Gemera.

Leno—who reportedly owns more than 180 cars—praised the Nilu’s styling, saying it has an unmistakably Italian vibe. He’s not wrong: the overall silhouette echoes the Ferrari Daytona SP3, though the nose carries a bit of McLaren-like curvature and flow. Selipanov even revealed that this front-end theme was originally pitched for the Chiron, but Bugatti ultimately went with something more conservative. Since the Nilu is still in prototype form, the final production look may change.

Under the skin, the analog-leaning hypercar packs a 6.5-liter naturally aspirated V12 from Hartley Engines. Free from turbochargers, Selipanov says the V12 can rev to around 11,000 rpm.

The V12 is paired with a gated seven-speed from Cima, the Italian gearbox supplier known for building transmissions for Pagani and Koenigsegg. Other highlights include full carbon-fiber bodywork (minus the subframe), Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes, and even gold-foil heat shielding around the exhaust area.

Nilu plans to begin production as early as next summer, with pricing starting at an eye-watering $2.8 million.

Which is the best state to buy a car if you want to pay the minimum in taxes, fees, and costs? Buying a car is about far more than just the MSRP and dealer markup, as various other factors affect how cheap a new car will be by state, even if it’s exactly the same model with the same MSRP. So, what are these factors affecting the final price you’ll pay, and where is the cheapest place to buy a car in the US in 2025? Let’s find out.

Factors Affecting New Car Prices

Several factors influence what cars with the same MSRP will actually cost:

• Sales tax. Some states have high sales taxes, and others, none at all.
• Dealer fees. Can vary significantly by dealer and state.
• Vehicle availability. States with higher competition and inventory offer better prices.
• Insurance. This doesn’t cost the same in all states either.

Additional potential factors, depending on the state, include:

• Market demand
• Tariffs
• Manufacturer incentives

The Cheapest State to Buy a Car

Because there are so many variables, it’s not always easy to rank states in order of price, as car prices vary, as do the factors listed above, so some cars would be cheaper in certain states, but others may come out to a lower price in other states. We have opted to go for the latest data from CarEdge for these rankings to identify the 10 cheapest states to buy a new car. We also list CarEdge’s ranking for new car prices in these states, including taxes and fees.

1. Oregon

Average new car price, incl. taxes and fees: $50,159

Oregon scores at or near the top of the list on most metrics, and factors responsible for its generally low prices on new vehicles include having no sales tax and low registration fees ($169), while its average dealership documentation fees ($250) are also lower than the national average. CarEdge says you can expect your total additional costs, over and above the MSRP, to amount to around $500 to $700 in Oregon.

2. New Hampshire

Average new car price, incl. taxes and fees: $50,166

New Hampshire doesn’t have sales tax either, and cars tend to be cheap to insure here, which makes car ownership particularly cheap overall. Its registration fees ($51) are low, too, and the average documentation fee is $375. CarEdge expects your additional costs for a new car to be around $650 to $850 in New Hampshire.

3. Montana

Average new car price, incl. taxes and fees: $50,276

Montana doesn’t charge sales tax either, but this is partly offset by higher-than-average purchase prices. However, registration fees ($237) are fairly low, so it still scores very well, and the average documentation fee is $299. CarEdge’s estimated total additional costs in Montana amount to only $500 to $750.

4. Alaska

Average new car price, incl. taxes and fees: $50,284

Dealership documentation fees ($299) below the national average, reasonable registration fees ($245), and no sales tax are the main attractions that keep Alaska’s new cars cheap. According to CarEdge, expect to pay only around $650 to $900 extra for a new car in Alaska, over the MSRP.

5. Delaware

Average new car price, incl. taxes and fees: $51,910

Another state without sales tax and a low (just $45) registration fee, placing it high on affordability for new cars. The state does charge 4.25% of the car’s value as a documentation fee, which can be seen as a kind of sales tax, and can cause costs to balloon more for expensive cars, but it’s still generally cheap in the bigger picture. CarEdge says that you generally pay around $700 to $2,200 extra for a car here, but that upper figure can get quite big on expensive cars; e.g., a $100K car will attract a $4,250 doc fee. Still, its average new car price bags it the number 5 spot of the cheapest states.

This concludes our top 5 states, which are also the only ones that don’t charge you any sales tax. The rest of the top 10 looks like this:

6. New York

Average new car price, incl. taxes and fees: $52,040

New York is the first state on this list to charge sales tax at 4%, but it charges low documentation and registration fees of $175 and $146, respectively - good enough for 6th place overall.

7. South Dakota

Average new car price, incl. taxes and fees: $52,140

South Dakota charges 4.2% sales tax, but $200 for the average doc fee and just $122 for registration keeps it competitive - and in the top 10.

8. Hawaii

Average new car price, incl. taxes and fees: $52,192

Hawaii’s 4% sales tax, average $395 documentation fees, and mere $78 registration fee make it good enough for 8th place.

9. Georgia

Average new car price, incl. taxes and fees: $52,338

Georgia’s $599 average for documentation fees is high, but the registration fee of $20 is almost nothing, and the sales tax is the expected 4%, putting it in 9th place.

10. Missouri

Average new car price, incl. taxes and fees: $52,455

Missouri rounds out the top 10 with the highest sales tax of 4.23% among these top 10 states and a hefty $565 average doc fee, but the registration fee of $57 is low.

Runners Up

11. Colorado - $52,469

12. New Mexico - $52,553

13. Wisconsin - $52,598

14. Alabama - $52,601

15. North Dakota - $52,636

The Most Expensive States to Buy a New Car

At the other end of the spectrum, all the various factors conspire to make these states the ones where it’s generally the most expensive to buy and own a new car:

• Mississippi - $54,347
• Florida - $54,004
• New Jersey - $53,986
• California - $53,936
• Tennessee - $53,731

Main drivers include high sales taxes of between 6 and 7.25%. Mississippi charges $719 for registration, and Florida’s average documentation fee is $999.

Final Thoughts

Look beyond the sticker price when you buy a new car, because many factors affect its final price, and if you live in a state with a very high sales tax or registration fee, you could save a lot by buying a car in a cheaper state. Some states may also charge additional fees that affect the price of a car, and that we haven’t included here, such as emissions testing, car title fees, or extra fees for a temporary vehicle registration. Check with your local state authorities for the payable fees, so you’re aware of all the hidden costs.

TÜV is a technical inspection association based in Germany. Its 2026 report is based on roughly 9.5 million mandatory vehicle inspections carried out from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025. The category where the two Tesla EVs fell short was the 2–3-year-old segment, with the Model 3 and Model Y posting 13.1% and 17.3% significant defect rates, respectively.

Tough Report Card

That means, for example, that in the Model Y’s case, about one in every 5.8 units had a serious issue at inspection. The silver lining, however, is that the association noted both Tesla models typically reached their first inspection with above-average mileage of over 50,000 km (around 31,069 miles), which it considered noteworthy for an all-electric vehicle. This age group is particularly important because it reflects the quality of vehicles closest to their manufacturing date.

This type of vehicle is engineered with fewer moving parts compared to combustion engines, which rely on components such as camshafts, pistons, and multi-speed gearboxes. EVs use electric motors and single-speed transmissions, though models like the Porsche Taycan employ a two-speed setup.

As a result, they are generally less prone to powertrain-related issues than gas cars, which can translate into lower maintenance costs over time.

TÜV’s data supports this, noting that most of the problems in Tesla’s results stemmed from the brake discs and axle suspension. While this year’s overall winner of the so-called “Golden Sticker” is the Mazda2 Hybrid with a defect rate of 2.9%, the highest-rated EVs are the Mini Cooper SE (3.5%) and the Audi Q4 e-tron (4.0%).

Here in the U.S., Tesla ranks slightly below the average in the J.D. Power 2025 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study, earning 209 problems per 100 vehicles (209 PP100). Lexus topped the list with 140 PP100, followed by Buick (143 PP100) and Mazda (161 PP100).

This guide walks through the most common reasons why my CarPlay is not working, and how to fix them without overthinking it. The steps are simple, friendly, and grounded in real-world use, but you'll also find notes about when it's better to stop wrestling with menus and let a dealer sort it out. CarPlay is a modern tool built on classic automotive logic: if the fundamentals aren't correct, the features won't behave.

Start With the Basics (Don't Skip These)

If I had a nickel for every time someone overlooked a simple detail—like whether the cable was fully plugged in or the accessory power was even on—I'd be rich.

The surprising truth is that many CarPlay failures resolve with the simplest actions. Before diving into menus, try the following:

Restart your iPhone and your car.
It sounds too easy, but it clears minor glitches in Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and the vehicle's head unit. Many drivers waste half an hour troubleshooting something that a restart fixes in ten seconds.

Check your cable — and yes, quality matters.
Some issues appear to be complex software failures when the culprit is actually a worn, frayed, or low-quality charging cable. Dollar-store cords rarely carry stable data signals, even if they charge your phone.

Look for a cable with the USB trident symbol, no visible bends near the Lightning or USB-C connector, and a firm "click" when plugging it in. If in doubt, try the cord in another CarPlay-enabled car. If it works there, the fault may be with the USB port in your vehicle.

This is also a good moment to think about other small electrical quirks — like fixing the cigarette lighter. A blown fuse in that circuit can sometimes affect nearby USB hubs, especially on older vehicles that share accessory power routing.

Check Your USB Port and Connection Stability

Even with a perfect cable, CarPlay won't start if the vehicle's USB port isn't behaving. Many newer cars have multiple ports, but only one offers data transfer.

Try switching ports, avoiding passthrough adapters, cleaning dust with compressed air, or plugging directly into the primary port hidden in the armrest or center console. Older GM, Honda, and Hyundai models often develop loose ports that interrupt the signal.

Watch for the "Don't Ask Again" Prompt

One of the most overlooked CarPlay issues comes down to a momentary tap of the wrong button. When you connect your phone, your infotainment system might ask: "Use Apple CarPlay with this device?"

If someone once tapped Don't Allow and checked Don't Ask Again, the system will never initiate CarPlay automatically.

To fix this, go into your car's CarPlay or Smartphone Projection settings, look for your iPhone in the list of paired devices, and re-enable CarPlay.

Make Sure CarPlay Is Enabled on your iPhone

iPhones occasionally lose track of previous pairings after updates or permission resets.

Go to Settings → General → CarPlay, select your vehicle, tap Forget This Car, and reconnect it fresh.
While you're here, enable "Allow CarPlay While Locked." Otherwise, your session will drop the moment your screen goes dark.

Check for Screen Time Restrictions

Screen Time can disable more than parents expect. If CarPlay is turned off here, nothing else will fix it.

Go to Settings → Screen Time → Content & Privacy Restrictions → Allowed Apps and ensure that CarPlay is toggled on.

Siri Must Be Enabled

CarPlay relies heavily on Siri for voice commands and system operations. If Siri is disabled, CarPlay may refuse to launch.

Check Settings → Siri & Search, then enable "Hey Siri," "Press Side Button for Siri," and "Allow Siri When Locked."

Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for Wireless CarPlay

Some drivers assume wireless CarPlay uses only Bluetooth. In reality, Bluetooth handles the handshake, while Wi-Fi carries the actual data.

Make sure both are enabled. If the pairing fails, forget the car in Bluetooth settings, forget the phone in the car's system, and pair again. Check for interference from dashcams, OBD2 dongles, or portable hotspots.

Model-Specific Quirks

Every brand has its own behavior:

BMW prefers original or MFi-certified cables.
Honda infotainment systems often need a soft reboot.
Toyota systems may bug out after iOS updates; resetting the pairing usually fixes it.
Ford Sync sometimes requires a Master Reset.
Mercedes-Benz MBUX reserves wireless CarPlay for specific trims and hardware.

If your car behaves differently than online comments suggest, check for software updates or service bulletins.

Why Is My CarPlay Not Working? (Most Common Causes)

If nothing makes sense yet, the issue typically comes down to:

• Damaged or low-quality cable
• Dust or oxidation in USB ports
• Disabled permissions for Siri or CarPlay
• Outdated vehicle firmware
• iOS bugs after updates
• Phone overheating
• Weak Bluetooth handshake
• Wireless interference
• A disabled setting in the car's projection menu

When Nothing Works: Reset Options

• Reset iPhone Network Settings
• (Settings → General → Transfer or Reset → Reset → Reset Network Settings)
• Soft reset of your infotainment system
• Most cars allow a safe reboot by holding the power button or using a system restart menu.
• Check your manual — just like learning what is L on the gear shift, some functions hide in unexpected places.
• Factory reset of the infotainment system
• This wipes stored phones, presets, and navigation data. Use it only when nothing else works.

When It Might Be a Hardware Issue

Sometimes the car needs more than troubleshooting:

• USB hub failure
• Infotainment software corruption
• Accessory power or fuse issues
• Aftermarket head units with weak CarPlay support

If things get too technical, a dealership visit is the safest choice. Modern infotainment systems are complex networks, and sometimes a trained technician is the best person to handle them.

Bonus Tips to Keep CarPlay Stable

• Avoid USB hubs or splitters.
• Don't overload the phone with navigation + low battery + wireless charging at once.
• Remove bulky phone cases that stress the connector.
• Keep your Lightning or USB-C port clean.
• Avoid extreme heat inside the cabin.

And while you're thinking about improving your vehicle's environment, you might find value in learning how to remove dog smell from your car. A clean, fresh cabin always improves the overall driving feel, including your experience with technology.

When to See a Dealer

You should consider professional help when:

• USB ports fail repeatedly
• Wireless CarPlay disconnects often
• Infotainment resets or freezes
• Firmware updates won't install
• The system won't recognize your iPhone after all resets

A quick dealer-level firmware update or a simple USB hub replacement can restore CarPlay to perfect working order.

Finally, Play!

Fixing CarPlay isn't about mastering obscure menus — it's about checking the simple, practical things first. A clean cable, a stable USB port, the right permissions, and a quick reset can bring the system back to life. And when things genuinely get too technical, dealerships have the tools to refresh software or replace hardware with precision.

With a bit of patience, you can usually bring CarPlay back online and avoid the stress of assuming something major has failed. Once everything works again, it's easy to appreciate how well modern smartphones and classic automotive systems blend together.

Speaking at the Genesis Magma launch in France, Muñoz told reporters that Hyundai Motor Group has held the No. 3 global position by sales for several years. He added (via CarExpert), “When you consider profits, we are number two… we just overtook Volkswagen very recently.”

Big Flex Moment

Hyundai—which also oversees Kia and Genesis under its corporate umbrella—credits its profit climb to what it calls the “Power of the Group.” This refers to an ecosystem of more than 50 related companies, covering everything from automotive manufacturing and parts supply to robotics and advanced mobility tech through subsidiaries like Boston Dynamics. This level of vertical integration gives the Korean automaker tighter cost control, more efficient supply chain management, and faster product development.

Meanwhile, Volkswagen—the parent company of Audi, Porsche, and several other brands—continues to face challenges that likely contribute to Hyundai’s comparative advantage. These issues include software delays at its Cariad division, large-scale internal restructuring, and workforce reductions across some of its German plants.

It’s an impressive turnaround for a company that once struggled with serious reliability concerns in the U.S., particularly in the ’90s with early models like the Excel.

While Toyota still holds the global sales crown, Hyundai appears to have adopted parts of the Japanese automaker’s strategy. It now offers a wide mix of vehicles, ranging from the Santa Cruz pickup truck to performance models like the Elantra N, allowing it to appeal to a broad spectrum of buyers.

In addition, Hyundai continues to expand its hybrid portfolio with models like the Tucson and Santa Fe, while simultaneously pushing deeper into EVs with the Ioniq series—including the high-performance Ioniq 5 N, which produces up to 641 horsepower.

With the shift to electrification accelerating across global markets, the next few years will determine whether Hyundai can maintain—or extend—its newfound profitability edge over its long-established rivals.

If you're wondering what the Toyota Sequoia is really like on the inside, buckle up—because this cabin tells quite a story.

Dashboard and Driver Environment

The moment you slide behind the wheel, the Sequoia makes a strong first impression. The dashboard is tall and broad, carved with clean horizontal lines and packed with physical controls that feel intentionally oversized. Toyota didn't chase futuristic minimalism here. Instead, they went for clarity and sturdiness.

The standard 8-inch touchscreen is perfectly functional, but the optional—and far more desirable—14-inch display transforms the atmosphere entirely. Both screens are angled toward the driver, supported by large physical climate knobs, a choice that feels like a nod to Toyota's heritage.

The gauge cluster mixes crisp digital graphics with traditional analog elements, and the steering wheel controls avoid the modern trap of "tap, swipe, and pray." Everything is where you expect it to be.

The TRD Pro interior receives special treatment: red stitching, SofTex upholstery, a chunkier steering wheel, unique trim inserts, and functional buttons meant for off-road escapades. It looks rugged because it is rugged.

Visibility is excellent, too. With the upright windshield and tall seating position, you get that classic SUV command view. As the saying goes, this isn't Toyota's first rodeo.

Center Stack and Technology

Toyota's new infotainment system finally feels premium. The interface is clean, responsive, and surprisingly fast. The big 14-inch screen in particular gives the Sequoia a flagship vibe, comparable to vehicles priced well above it.

Below the screen, you'll find old-school physical climate controls, perfectly sized for quick fingertip use. Toyota deserves credit here—the brand stuck to practicality instead of burying functions in endless menus.

Practical touches around the center stack include:

• Wireless phone charger
• Multiple USB ports
• A slot for cards or small items
• Clearly separated tech and climate controls
• Intuitive hazard button placement

It's an interior designed for people who actually drive and not just admire dashboards in parking lots. For a deeper look at Toyota's interior philosophy across models, see our breakdown in the Toyota slogan article—Toyota's consistency becomes even more obvious.

Center Console and Storage

The center console is one of the Sequoia's greatest strengths. It's absolutely massive and built for real-world family use. The armrest opens to reveal deep storage, and a sliding tray lets you sort small items without losing them into the abyss.

Cupholders are huge, well-placed, and clearly designed with American-size drinks in mind. Smaller compartments near the shifter are rubberized, so keys or sunglasses don't rattle around.

Everything is practical and fast to access. It all just… works. Or, to use a classic American idiom, it fits like a glove.

Seating, Comfort, and Practicality

Toyota offers the Sequoia with either 7 or 8 seats, depending on trim, but for this article, we're focusing on the trims buyers ask about the most: Platinum, TRD Pro, and Capstone.

Front Seats

• Spacious, supportive, and built for long-distance comfort
• Heating and ventilation are available on higher trims
• Memory settings and powered adjustments add convenience

Second Row

• Captain's chairs on Platinum, TRD Pro, Capstone
• Bench available on SR5 and Limited
• Heating/ventilation available up to the second row
• Generous shoulder room and solid legroom
• High step-in height, mitigated by deployable running boards

Third Row

• Not as roomy as rivals like the Expedition
• Seats fold flat and work with the cargo shelf system
• Better finishing than the previous generation

Shoppers comparing seating practicality across Toyota models should also check out our Toyota Sienna maintenance resource—the Sienna's MPV-style space offers practical context when judging the Sequoia's third-row compromises.

Cargo Space and Cabin Versatility

Cargo capacity lands at:

• 22.3 cu ft behind the third row
• 49 cu ft behind the second
• 86.9 cu ft max

Those aren't record-breaking figures, but Toyota's adjustable cargo shelf adds versatility. Tie-downs are sturdy, the power-folding third row (trim dependent) works quickly, and the flat load floor makes loading gear easy.

Whether you're hauling camping equipment or kid gear, the Sequoia takes it on the chin and keeps going. As the old saying goes: built like a tank.

Interior Colors, Materials, and Premium Options

Toyota pushed the materials and finishes much higher than before, especially on premium trims.

Standard Materials

• Cloth or SofTex
• Black or gray tones
• Matte plastics with improved textures
• Platinum

Leather Upholstery

• Heated & ventilated front and second row
• Better stitching patterns
• More upscale trim accents

TRD Pro

• Black SofTex
• Red accents
• Rugged, off-road-themed interior aesthetic

Capstone

• The flagship trim brings the full luxury treatment:
• Semi-aniline leather
• White-and-black interior palette
• American walnut trim
• Premium stitching and detailing

Capstone is the Sequoia's interior "whole nine yards" moment.

For readers interested in how these colors compare to Toyota's general palette and heritage hues, our Toyota colors deep dive adds useful context.

How the New Sequoia's Interior Compares to the 2008 Model

The 2008 Sequoia wasn't a bad interior for its time—big seats, massive buttons, and a fold-flat passenger seat made it genuinely useful. The second row could split 40/20/40, and there was easy-slide access to the third row. Furthermore, features like three-zone climate control felt upscale back then.

But next to the 2022+ model, the differences are dramatic:

• Tech jumped from CDs and MP3 inputs to full digital cockpits
• Material quality rose significantly
• Safety tech evolved from basic airbags to Toyota Safety Sense 2.5
• Seat comfort and adjustability improved drastically
• Cargo areas changed in shape and flexibility

The older model delivered pure practicality, but the new Sequoia blends practicality with premium touches and modern tech. After all, between the second and third generations of this nameplate, there was a world financial crisis and a pandemic.

Writer's Opinion — Is Toyota Using the Space Wisely?

From an expert standpoint, Toyota did a fine job modernizing the Sequoia's cabin without losing its identity. The tech upgrade alone brings the SUV into the present day, and the materials now feel appropriate for the price tag.

Still, the automaker played it safe with specific design choices. The third row could be roomier, and some storage areas are bulkier than necessary. But the strengths outweigh the weaknesses. Everything is easy to use, comfortable, and thoughtfully placed.

To put it plainly: Toyota didn't reinvent the wheel with the third-generation Sequoia, but it certainly tightened the lug nuts.

The P0118 code means that the engine control module (ECM) has detected a voltage signal that’s too high from the engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor (below). In practical terms, the ECM believes the engine is a lot colder than it really is — sometimes even colder than the ambient temperature. This misreading can happen when the sensor signal exceeds the expected range, triggering the Check Engine Light (CEL) and affecting how the engine manages fuel and ignition.

The ECT sensor is critical to help the ECM regulate ignition timing, fuel mixture, and cooling fan operation. If this sensor sends bad data, the ECM can’t make the proper adjustments, which can lead to performance issues and poor fuel economy. The P0118 code is common across many makes and models, as it’s a generic one, so whether you see P0118 on Chevy or Ford vehicles, it means the same as P0118 on Honda models. P0115 is a related code that indicates a malfunction in the ECT sensor circuit, and you may see P0115 on Toyota, Honda, BMW, or virtually any other brand’s models.

Understanding the P0118 Code

When the ignition is turned on, the ECM sends a reference voltage (typically 5 V) to the ECT sensor. As the coolant temperature rises, the sensor’s resistance drops, which reduces voltage feedback to the ECM. If the ECM continues to see a constantly high voltage signal, it interprets this as a circuit problem or a reading that indicates the coolant is excessively cold — even when the engine is warm. This triggers the P0118 – engine coolant temperature circuit high input. Don’t confuse it with P0113, which means “intake air temperature sensor 1 circuit high”.

An inaccurate coolant temperature reading can throw off key engine systems, including:

• Air/fuel ratio control, causing the engine to run rich or lean
• Ignition timing, leading to hesitation or detonation
• Cooling fan activation (the fan may run continuously or fail to engage)
• Cold start enrichment, causing the engine to flood or struggle to start when warm

Common Causes of P0118

Symptoms of a P0118 Code

Drivers may notice one or more of the following signs when this code appears:

• The Check Engine Light is illuminated
• Hard starting, especially when the engine is warm
• Poor fuel consumption from over-fueling (the engine runs “rich”)
• A rough idle or hesitation when accelerating
• Cooling fans that run constantly, even when the engine is cold
• Overheating or stuck cold readings on the dashboard gauge in rare cases

Although the car may still run, prolonged driving with a P0118 code can cause poor fuel efficiency, excess emissions, and premature wear on the catalytic converter due to rich mixture operation.

How to Diagnose the P0118 Code

Accurate diagnosis requires both visual inspection and live data testing:

1. Check for related codes such as P0115, P0117, or P0128 to narrow down the fault.
2. Inspect the ECT sensor and connector for moisture, corrosion, or damaged pins.
3. Check the coolant condition and level; low coolant or air pockets can produce erratic readings.
4. Test the sensor voltage with a multimeter; at cold temperatures, the sensor should show high resistance (around 2–5 kΩ), and as the engine warms up, the resistance should drop to around 200–400 Ω.
5. Compare live ECT data from an OBD-II scan tool to the ambient temperature; if the ECT reads far below actual ambient temperature, it’s likely faulty.
6. Check wiring continuity between the sensor and the ECM to ensure there are no breaks or shorts.

Common Repairs for P0118

Pro Tip: Always verify the coolant temperature reading with a scan tool before and after replacement to confirm the repair. On many vehicles, the ECM automatically recalibrates the new sensor, but some may need an idle relearn procedure.

Prevention Tips

• Flush and refill the coolant at manufacturer-recommended intervals to avoid debris buildup.
• Inspect the wiring harnesses near the thermostat housing and radiator; heat exposure can make them brittle.
• Avoid driving with the Check Engine Light on when the cooling system is involved; incorrect readings can trigger improper fan operation and overheating.

FAQs

Q: How do I fix error code P0118?

A: Start by checking the coolant level and inspecting the sensor’s wiring. If both are fine, replace the ECT sensor, which usually resolves this issue.

Q: Can low coolant cause a P0118 code?

A: Yes. If the coolant level is too low, the sensor may not be submerged, leading to high-voltage or inaccurate readings.

Q: How to reset the engine coolant temperature sensor?

A: After a repair or replacement, clear the code with an OBD-II scanner. The ECM will relearn the new sensor values automatically once the engine has warmed up.

Q: Can I drive with a faulty coolant temperature sensor?

A: You can, but we don’t recommend it. A bad sensor can cause poor fuel consumption, rough running, and even overheating if the fans don’t operate correctly.

Final Thoughts

The P0118 code is a sign that your vehicle’s engine coolant temperature circuit isn’t providing accurate data. While it’s not immediately dangerous, ignoring it can lead to inefficient engine operation, wear, and potential overheating. The fix is usually simple — replacing the ECT sensor or repairing its wiring — but the diagnosis should always include a full check of the coolant level and electrical system to ensure lasting reliability.

According to AZ Family, Korissa Morgan initially brought her 2015 Honda Accord to the dealership for repairs. Instead, staff allegedly encouraged her to trade it in for a newer vehicle. She agreed and signed the digital paperwork—only to later discover through her loan company that the Accord’s balance was never paid off.

A Costly Car Confusion

When Morgan asked the dealer for clarification, they produced her contract—yet the trade-in clause was missing entirely. “What they told me doesn’t match what’s on the paper that I apparently signed,” she told the outlet.

Reviewing the documents uncovered more discrepancies. Morgan said she purchased the car on July 12, yet the contract she was shown listed July 17. Fortunately, her insurance records supported her timeline, with coverage beginning on July 13.

After locating the Honda Accord at the dealership, Morgan received a letter instructing her to remove the vehicle from their property instead of resolving the dispute.

Rather than continue paying loans on two cars, Morgan chose to surrender the Accord, which she reportedly owed more on than its value. She is now driving what appears to be a third-generation Mazda3 hatchback—not necessarily a major upgrade over the Honda, but its hatchback layout offers far more usable cargo space thanks to the wide, upright trunk opening.

The mismatched dates and insurance coverage may strengthen her position, but the ordeal has already cost her financially. Situations like this highlight the importance of reading every contract thoroughly before signing, especially as several dealerships have reportedly taken advantage of buyers even to this day. In fact, the outlet noted that a recent CarEdge survey found that 82% of Americans don’t trust car dealerships to treat them fairly.

Of all the changes made to the newly updated 2026 Tesla Model Y, inside is where you’ll find the most important ones. The trim is more sumptuous, it rides more comfortably, it’s quieter, and there are more standard and available features. However, the seating in the Tesla Model Y interior maxes out at 5 occupants, and the optional 3rd row is gone, perhaps for good. China gets a LWB Model Y with a 3rd row, but there’s no word on whether we can ever expect to see it here.

Interior Highlights

The cabin is more comfortable, and some standout features include:

• Tesla Arcade allows you to play games on your center touchscreen, and you can even connect a game controller via Bluetooth for a more hands-on experience.
• Dog Mode keeps your canine cool or warm, depending on the season, while your car is parked, and alerts passers-by to this fact in large type on the touchscreen.
• Remote functions such as remote climate control to prepare the cabin and remote key/entry via smartphone make life easier in a Model Y.

View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article

• Tesla Autopilot and available $8,000 Tesla FSD (Full Self Driving) may be misleadingly labeled as full self-driving (it’s not), but they can do a lot of the driving for you.
• An 8-inch rear-seat climate control touchscreen on all trims above Standard, which can be used by the rear passengers to view movies or play games in split-screen mode.
• The frunk has been redesigned and now comes with drain plugs for storing wet things like wetsuits or swimwear.

View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article

Comparison with the 2025 Tesla Model Y Interior

The new Model Y interior is much improved over that of the 2025 model. The ambience has been significantly upgraded with ambient lighting strips in the dashboard and door panels, double-layer acoustic glass provides better sound insulation, the cabin materials have been upgraded with more soft-touch surfaces, and ventilated front seats have become available for the first time. 

View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article

The feature count has also been upped, with a power trunk lid and rear seats that can now be electrically folded down to increase trunk space. The center console and door panels also feature an improved design, and most people will applaud the fact that Tesla is fitting an indicator stalk again after much criticism (the indicators used to be activated via haptic buttons on the steering wheel). Ride quality has also been enhanced through suspension tuning and changes to the wheels and tires. 

View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article

It’s not all good news, though, and some people will bemoan the loss of the optional third row of seats. Sure, it was tiny, but it came in handy when you had to transport small kids in the back. All Model Ys are now strict 2-row 5-seaters. Perhaps the 3rd-row option will return later. Buyers of the base Standard trim may also feel short-changed for not having the other models’ glass roof. Technically, it is there, but Tesla has covered it up with sound insulation and a headliner.

Comfort and Space

Comfort is noticeably improved thanks to the softer ride and lower sound levels, while the plusher materials also improve your quality of life. The rear-seat occupants have more than enough head- and legroom to accommodate adults, and now benefit from an 8-inch climate/infotainment screen and heated/power-folding seats on all trims above Standard; these trims also get standard ventilated front seats now. Interior space is the same as before, as shakes out as below:

View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article

Features Comparison of Model Y Trims

Standard features across the lineup include:

• Front infotainment touchscreen with video games, embedded Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube apps, navigation, live weather tracking, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular data.
• 2x wireless phone chargers.
• 5x USB-C charging ports.
• Aluminum and premium textile decor.
• Front power recline seats.
• Footwell and door pocket ambient lighting.
• Heated front seats.

Here’s a trim comparison of some notable features that aren’t standard across the range:

Legend: S standard; O optional; - not available

The Downsides

No car is perfect, and the interior of the new Model Y has mostly erased most of the old one’s most glaring faults, so interior quality is now at the class standard rather than luxurious. And while the ride has been improved, it’s only acceptable now compared to how hard it was, and hardly class-leading. The loss of the 3rd row will also stick in the craw for some people. Another negative for some people would be that you have to use the native Tesla software for phone connectivity, and that both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay remain absent.

Colors and Materials

The Standard trim gets an all-black interior with textile/leatherette upholstery and textile decor. All the other trims upgrade to perforated leatherette upholstery and microsuede/textile decor, while also adding a black/white interior option with white seats and door inserts. The Performance (below) is the only trim to come with microsuede/carbon fiber decor.

View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article

FAQs

Q: Do all Model Ys have 7 seats?

A: No; in fact, currently none of them do. Tesla has removed the optional 3rd seating row, and there’s no word on whether it will be returning.

Q: Which Tesla is better, 3 or Y?

A: The cars are very similar, but for most people, the Y will be better, because it offers more overall interior volume and an SUV design, which most buyers prefer nowadays.

Q: Is Tesla Model Y’s real leather?

A: No, all Model Ys’ seats are covered in a leatherette that Tesla calls vegan leather.

Q: Is the new Model Y 2025 or 2026?

A: The updated Model Y, as described in this article, is the 2026 model; the 2025 Model Y is the old one without any of the improvements.

Final Thoughts

The Tesla Model Y has been usefully improved for MY2026, with a more comfortable and quieter interior constructed from better materials, and the standard or optional tech is class-leading, with highlights including in-car gaming and a rear touchscreen. However, its rivals have also been improving, and the Model Y has only caught up with some of them now, while not offering a class-leading cabin experience. But if you’re a tech lover and Tesla fan, it does more than enough to redress the complaints against the 2025 model.

OnlyDino on YouTube recently toured Miataland in Italy, where owner Andrea Mancini houses more than 50 Miatas, ranging from early classics to ultra-rare specials.

Italy’s Unlikeliest Car Sanctuary

Andrea bought his first Miata in 1998, an NA-generation model easily recognized by its pop-up headlights. He later sold it to purchase an NB—a second-generation Miata that marked Mazda’s shift to fixed headlights. After that swap, he promised himself he would never sell another one, and the collection has grown steadily ever since. Many of his cars come from Japan, with some passing through the UK before eventually making their way to his Italian garage.

One highlight is the Yamamoto Signature ND, a fourth-generation Miata named after program chief Nobuhiro Yamamoto. Only four were built, each equipped with Mazda’s 1.5-liter Skyactiv-G engine making roughly 131 horsepower, a full performance suspension, Enkei wheels, semi-slick tires, and Brembo-style brakes.

He also owns multiple M2-sanctioned Miatas, built by Mazda’s short-lived specialty division in the early ’90s. His M2-1001—chassis 062—features weight reduction and performance upgrades, while his M2-1002, numbered 007, leans more toward luxury with bespoke interior touches.

Out of the four Miata generations, Andrea ranks the NC (third generation) the lowest. Even so, his NC is special, as it celebrates the 20th anniversary of the nameplate. It’s set up for track use, but according to him, it is still road-legal.

Other unusual pieces in his collection include a Ferrari GTO–style kit, a frog-eyed Austin-Healey Sprite–inspired build, and a Ford 5.0-liter V8–swapped Miata with a supercharger, claimed to make 430 horsepower.

As for future additions, the collector admits space is tight, so adding more cars won’t be easy. Still, with a next-generation Miata reportedly in development with Toyota, it wouldn’t be surprising to see another one join his lineup someday.

Supercars and hypercars are often decked out in outrageously extroverted paint jobs, and the Italians are no different, so we’re looking at some of the most striking and unique Lamborghini colors over the years in this article. Keep in mind that the Lamborghini color palette is endlessly customizable, and there are countless hues of the popular yellow, green, red, white, and black hues, but we picked a few specific colors among those to discuss here.

Is there a single Lamborghini color that’s more famous than any other, like Audi’s Nogaro Blue or BMW’s Dakar Yellow? Let’s see if one stands out. We list our top 10, but there are way more special, unusual, or rare Lamborghini colors and liveries than just these, so we add a few honorable mentions at the end. 

Our Top 10 Favorite Lamborghini Paint Colors

Forced to choose just 10 top Lamborghini color names, these would be our favorites:

1. Verde Mantis

Debuted on the Huracán (2014)

A vibrant metallic grasshopper green, Verde Mantis (paint code L0L6) became famous on the Huracán and Aventador in the mid-2010s. It has a glossy pearl-metallic finish and requires a specific, multi-step application process to achieve a factory finish. The Lamborghini Las Vegas dealership says it’s the most popular Huracán color and is frequently ordered by younger buyers. This is what it looks like on a 2021 Lamborghini Aventador LP770-4 SVJ Roadster:

2. Giallo Orion

Diablo (2001)

Yellow is synonymous with Lamborghini, and for some reason, we associate the color with the last (2002) Diablo model year, which debuted this specific yellow - Giallo Orion (paint code 0056) - in 2001, with the Murciélago making it famous because it was offered in this color for more model years. It’s as if a V12 flagship Lambo simply has to be offered in an extroverted yellow shade. Yellow is one of the most popular Lambo colors, and Giallo Orion has been on offer for nearly a quarter of a century, with its popularity seemingly guaranteed. Below, you can see a 2001 Diablo VT 6.0 in this shade:

3. Rosso Mars

Aventador LP700-4 (2011)

There are, of course, many shades of Lamborghini’s red color finishes, but we picked Rosso Mars because it was the Aventador’s memorable launch color in 2011. It was later rolled out to the Gallardo, Urus, and Huracán as well. It’s a vibrant pearl-effect red named for the planet Mars and comprises a vibrant red base and fine, reflective mica particles that’s very similar to Audi’s Misano Red. Here you can see it on a 2016 Lamborghini Aventador LP750-4 SV Roadster:

4. Nero Nemesis

Gallardo LP570-4 Superleggera (2010)

First seen on the Gallardo at the 2010 Geneva Auto Show, this sinister satin-matte-black finish (paint code 0109) is offered through the Ad Personam personalization program, and was often paired with other contrasting colors on Lamborghinis, such as orange hues like Arancio Argos for the intakes and pillars - the color scheme you can see in the image below of a 2013 Gallardo LP570-4 Superleggera Edizione Tecnica. This paint’s flat finish appears to absorb light, so it’s fitting that it’s named for the goddess Nemesis of Greek mythology.

5. Arancio Borealis

Gallardo (2003)

Although the previously mentioned Arancio Argos is an attention-grabbing orange, we list the vivid Arancio Borealis (paint code L0E2) here - a very bright pearl-finish sunset orange with a yellow undertone that’s quite rare today and available on special order through Ad Personam. It’s a touch lighter than Arancio Atlas. It was first seen back in 2003 on the Gallardo, and here you can see it on a 2008 Gallardo Superleggera:

6. Grigio Telesto

Gallardo Superleggera (2006)

Another color that debuted on the Gallardo Superleggera was Grigio Telesto (paint code 0098), in 2006, and it was later seen on the Huracán, Murciélago, and Aventador too. Although it reminds us of Audi’s runaway-popular Nardo Gray, Grigio Telesto is different in that it’s a pearlescent metallic finish, not a flat shade, so it’s known for its ability to morph from a menacing military gray in low light to metallic gray with a touch of sparkle in sunlight. Here it is on a 2008 Gallardo Superleggera:

7. Blu Cepheus

Gallardo LP560-4 (2008)

A color we first saw at the 2008 New York Auto Show, Blu Cepheus (paint code 0105) debuted on the then brand-new Gallardo LP560-4 and is one of the most remarkable of Lamborghini’s blue colors. It’s a multicoat pearl-finish metallic blue named for the Cepheus northern star constellation. It’s a bright and attention-grabbing high-gloss blue that requires a precise 3-step process with an undercoat, mid-coat, and clear coat to achieve its signature “pop” in direct sunlight. This has turned out to be an extremely rare color to find, and you can scroll through pages of used Gallardos without seeing one.

8. Viola Pasifae

Huracán EVO and Aventador SV (2019)

This eye-popping shade of purple, named after Pasiphae, the Greek queen of Crete, will have onlookers walk into lampposts, that’s for sure. A rich and saturated pearl-finish purple with the paint code 0172, its origins are a bit vague, but it seems to have debuted in 2019 on the Huracán EVO and Aventador SV models. The surreal effect in sunlight is achieved with a solid purple undercoat and a pearl purple base coat. Here you can see it on a 2023 Huracán STO:

9. Blu Hera

Diablo (2000)

This stunning deep pearl-metallic dark blue (paint code 0054) arrived at the end of Diablo production in 2000, so Diablos in this shade are very rare. It worked really well in conjunction with Avorio (ivory) or blue/beige two-tone leather upholstery. It later became available on other Lambos as well, such as the Murciélago, Aventador, and Huracán. Here it is on a 2000 Diablo VT:

10. Bianco Icarus

Aventador and Huracán (2015)

White is generally an unremarkable color, but not so this pearlescent shade first seen on Lamborghinis in, notably the Huracán and Aventador, with its subtle gray undertone thanks to using a silver metallic flake. Bianco Icarus (paint code LS9R) has a deeper hue showing off that hint of gray, unlike Lamborghini’s bright Bianco Monocerus white paint. It’s quite a bit rarer than the more common Bianco Isi/Isis and Bianco Canapis whites.

Special Mentions

Verde Scandal

While Verde Mantis may be one of the most popular and best-known of Lamborghini’s green colors today, we can’t fail to mention Verde Scandal, originally made famous on the Miura, but also available on special order on other modern Lambos.

Oro Alba

Lamborghini’s iridescent paint finishes are also very special, and some of its most advanced paints, such as the color-shifting “gold dawn” Oro Alba paint (below), contain real diamond dust, and change from purple to amber and peach, and even green. 

Honorable Mentions

As much as we would have loved to, not all the colors could be included in the top 10, and you may hate us for not including the following ones, so we won’t fail to mention them:

• Blu Glauco (Teal)
• Arancio Argos (Orange)
• Bronzo Zante (Bronze)
• Giallo Clarus (Neon Yellow)
• Giallo Midas (Orange Yellow)
• Grigio Nimbus (Light Gray)
• Rosso Andromeda (Deep Red)
• Rosso Leto (Dark Red)
• Verde Citrea (Neon Lime Green)
• Verde Draco (Olive Green)
• Verde Metallic (British Racing Green)
• Verde Hydra (Dark Green)
• Viola 30 (Light Metallic Purple)
• Viola Aletheia (Deep Blue Purple)
• Balloon White (Matte White)

Design Influence

Lamborghini can be credited for being one of the first automakers to truly popularize striking color options and has made striking and unconventional hues part of its brand identity. This became especially evident during the Murciélago era, when it added some vivid shades to its palette, such as Verde Artemis (jade green), Giallo Orion (yellow), and Arancio Ishtar (orange). Along with this trend, Lamborghini’s iridescent paint finishes were also influential, and the current industrywide availability of unique iridescent finishes is at least partially thanks to Lamborghini’s early work.

Also significant was Lamborghini’s matte paints, and it was among the first automakers, if not the first, to offer these options on its cars as early as 2007, when the Lamborghini Reventón was released in its sinister Grigio Reventón dark-gray paintwork (above). Matte colors were soon available on other Lamborghinis too, and other automakers followed with their own matte or non-glossy finishes, usually associated with their performance cars.

Final Thoughts

Lamborghinis have been defined by their colors for a long time, and though the automaker only really started letting its hair down in the 2000s by pushing the boundaries of paint colors and technology, most people can remember that even the Miura was available in striking greens and oranges. Today, Lambo continues to advance its paint finishes, ably demonstrated by its multi-layer iridescent shades, its varied matte palette, and remarkable colors like the color-shifting Oro Alba.

The P0463 code indicates that your car’s engine control module (ECM) is receiving a voltage signal from the fuel level sensor that is higher than expected, which suggests that the system believes the fuel level to be higher than is physically possible. This issue is often described as a “fuel level Sensor A circuit high” error. The fuel level sensor (below) is located inside the fuel tank and is part of the fuel pump module. It communicates the fuel level readings to the ECM and the fuel gauge on your dashboard. If this sensor fails or there’s a problem with its wiring, the gauge may show inaccurate or erratic readings.

This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is one of the generic or universal ones that can apply to all types of vehicles, so if you see the P0463 code on Chevy models, it’s no different from what P0463 on Ford or Toyota models would mean. It always refers to the same basic issue with the fuel level sensor. In fact, it’s quite common on many vehicles, including Toyotas, Fords, and Jeeps, among others.

What Causes the P0463 Code?

Because the sensor sits inside the fuel tank, wear and corrosion are very common causes.

P0463 Symptoms

You may notice one or more of the following symptoms if you see this error code:

• The Check Engine Light is illuminated in your gauge cluster
• The fuel gauge remains stuck on full or empty
• The fuel gauge is inaccurate, or it fluctuates
• The “low fuel” warning light comes on, even when the tank is full
• Incorrect distance-to-empty estimates
• In rare cases, the vehicle may unexpectedly run out of fuel

Unlike many other engine codes, P0463 is unlikely to affect engine performance in any way, as it’s not an engine or fuel delivery problem, but it can cause fueling problems, especially if the tank runs dry.

How to Diagnose the P0463 Code

A mechanic or DIYer may typically follow these steps:

1. Scan live data to see what the fuel level reading is vs. the actual amount.
2. Inspect the wiring and connectors near the fuel pump on top of the tank.
3. Measure the resistance of the fuel level sensor using a multimeter.
4. Perform a wiggle test to identify any intermittent wiring faults.
5. Verify that no corrosion or damage has occurred to the fuel pump module connector.

If the wiring checks out, the sensor itself is usually the issue.

Common Repairs for P0463

Note: On many vehicles, you will have to remove the entire fuel tank to replace the fuel level sensor, leading to a high labor charge and putting it beyond the ability of many DIY mechanics.

FAQs

Q: How do I fix the code P0463?

A: Always inspect wiring first, as this is the cheapest and easiest to fix. If the wiring is good, you’ll probably have to replace the fuel level sensor, which is often part of the fuel pump assembly.

Q: Is it safe to drive with a P0463 code?

A: Yes, as long as you track your fuel level manually, because you risk running out of gas unexpectedly if you don’t have a working and accurate fuel gauge.

Q: What are the symptoms of a P0463 code?

A: Typical symptoms may include an inaccurate or stuck fuel gauge that stays on empty or full, or won’t move, wrong distance-to-empty readings from your trip computer, and an illuminated Check Engine Light.

Q: What happens when a fuel level sensor is bad?

A: Your gauge will stop indicating the correct fuel level, and this can lead to misfueling and being stranded next to the road due to unexpectedly running out of fuel.

The owner shared the ordeal on the r/Rivian subreddit. The employee’s insurance first estimated the damage at $1,700, but the only Rivian-certified body shop within 300 miles quoted $16,000 for the repair—roughly the price of a brand-new Nissan Versa. Hoping for a cheaper alternative, the owner tried taking the truck to PDR (paintless dent repair) shops, but none wanted to work on the EV at all.

Fender Bender? More Like Bank Bender

Seven weeks later, the owner said that the certified shop completed the job and presented a final bill of $22,000, citing additional issues uncovered during the repair. The insurance company agreed to cover only $13,000, arguing that the shop’s labor rates were excessive.

A major reason the repair cost spiraled is the R1T’s body structure. Similar to Tesla’s Model 3 and Model Y, Rivian uses a large unipanel-style design instead of traditional separate sections. This approach speeds up production and improves rigidity and cabin quietness—key goals for emerging EV brands—but it also makes even minor damage far more complicated and expensive to fix.

Forced to pay the remaining $9,000 out of pocket, the owner claimed to have filed a complaint with the state. The insurance company ultimately offered an additional $5,100 to settle the dispute. In the end, the owner said they hope Rivian rethinks its design approach to prevent minor dents from turning into five-figure repair bills.

The story serves as a reminder that being an early EV adopter can be exciting, but it comes with trade-offs. Legacy automakers like Ford and Toyota have bigger support networks and simpler designs, so issues like this are less likely to occur.

At first glance, it looks like the kind of incident where a car suddenly loses braking ability. But according to CBC, the Cadillac driver was actually evading police after reportedly entering the wrong lanes and running multiple red lights. The chase came to an abrupt end when the suspect hit the F-150, which also collected a white Bronco traveling in the outer lane.

Wrong Lane, Wrong Time

Based on the dashcam footage, the Cadillac appears to be a DTS, a model produced in the late 2000s. It may look like a regular sedan with premium touches, but it’s a heavy vehicle at around 4,000 pounds—roughly a thousand more than a Honda Civic. That extra mass likely contributed to the severity of the impact, explaining why the F-150 suffered a busted front-left corner and lost a wheel.

The Bronco didn’t appear to sustain major damage. Another Ford also shows up in the scene—presumably a classic Ranger—though it’s unclear whether it was part of the collision. The truck did have a damaged bumper, but it’s impossible to tell from the footage if that happened during the crash.

Fortunately, no one was reportedly seriously injured.

As for the Cadillac driver, police initially laid charges, including dangerous driving, evading police, and impaired driving, then said on October 16, 2025, he was released from custody for hospital admission under Saskatchewan’s Mental Health Services Act. Police later reported that he was charged again on October 23 while still in the hospital.

The Back to the Future trilogy gave automotive pop culture one of its most unique pairings: a stainless-steel oddball that revived a dead brand, and a humble 1985 Toyota Pickup SR5 that every teenager in America suddenly wanted. While the 1985 Toyota pickup never jumped through time, it had its own charms — it could hop a curb, look good doing it, and quietly hit the sweet spot between everyday practicality and youthful aspiration.

Fans often forget that Marty's black truck was a real, attainable vehicle. It wasn't called Tacoma yet; it was simply a Toyota Pickup, though many now casually call it the Back to the Future Tacoma out of habit. And while the DeLorean stole the spotlight, the Toyota SR5 1985 model became the dream machine kids could imagine actually owning. In its own understated way, it became a car-culture legend.

What Was the Toyota Pickup SR5? The "One-Year Wonder"

The production truck behind Marty's SR5 was one of Toyota's quiet milestones. The 1985 model year was the only time Toyota combined a solid front axle with electronic fuel injection. That one-year-only configuration turned the truck into the holy grail of early Toyota pickups, blending old-school off-road toughness with modern drivability. Collectors still chase the 85 Toyota pickup because nothing before or after matched this exact recipe.

The movie truck took the rugged production platform and reworked the look for the camera. Toyota normally offered bright chrome trim, but the film crew toned most of it down or blacked it out, giving the truck a darker, tougher attitude. Anyone familiar with Toyota colors can immediately see how the selective "murdered-out" treatment changed its entire personality. The black wasn't unusual on its own, but the on-screen finish made the truck look more rebellious than anything you'd find on the showroom floor.

The truck also used a 5-speed manual transmission at a time when many SR5s left the factory with automatics. Michael J. Fox didn't know how to drive a three-pedal car, so the crew taught him during production. If you watch closely, you can spot him riding the clutch in a few scenes, which somehow fits the story: Marty was still figuring life out, and so was his driving technique.

The Truck's History: Multiple Trucks, Continuity Oddities, and One Incredible Survivor

With movie vehicles, continuity sometimes goes out the window. Marty's truck is a perfect example. The license plates change between films, the roll bar design fluctuates, the bedliner appears and disappears — all because at least three trucks were used during production for close-ups, stunts, and promotional shots. High-definition releases made these little inconsistencies far easier to spot, but back in the '80s, nobody expected fans to freeze-frame every detail.

The real magic, though, comes from what happened after shooting wrapped. According to long-running fan archives and restoration notes, the main stunt truck from Parts II and III didn't end up in a museum. Instead, an employee from Universal's Transportation Department bought it for about $800. For years, it lived an utterly ordinary life as a Southern California work truck, hauling lumber and surfboards, racking up miles, and taking the kind of daily abuse no collector would ever allow.

The owner even repainted it white, added a camper shell, swapped wheels, and generally used it like any other old pickup. But here's the twist: he kept all the original parts in storage. That decision saved the truck decades later, when his son posted photos online asking if anyone recognized it. The Back to the Future community immediately pieced together what it was.

A four-year restoration returned it to screen accuracy. Under the white respray, they found the factory black paint. Studio inventory tags still hung from some components. Even Michael J. Fox's seat adjustment marks survived under the rails. Today, the truck appears at charity events and fan gatherings.

One collector reportedly offered the owner about $250,000 for it. He refused, famously saying, "The truck belongs to the fans, and not locked in some private collections." That line says everything about why this pickup means so much to so many people.

Today's Collector Market: How Much Is a Marty-Style Toyota Worth?

Prices for old Toyota Pickups have climbed sharply, especially for clean 1985 SR5s. A good-condition example usually lands somewhere in the $20,000–$35,000 range, while restored trucks or low-mile survivors can reach $45,000–$65,000 depending on originality. Their durability and ease of upkeep — something anyone who's read a Toyota maintenance guide already knows — help keep demand surprisingly strong.

Values rise dramatically when the truck echoes Marty's movie hero. High-quality replicas have gone for big money, including one sale near the $110,000 mark. Then you have the truck you found at Mecum, a 1985 Toyota SR5 signed by cast and crew. Even without being a screen-used vehicle, signatures from Michael J. Fox, Christopher Lloyd, and the rest give it a special aura. For many collectors, that's the closest they'll ever get to owning "Marty's truck."

The actual surviving stunt truck has never been auctioned, and given the owner's philosophy, it may never hit the block. That leaves replicas, tribute builds, and memorabilia-enhanced examples like the Mecum truck as the most accessible options.

Pop Culture, Movie Cars, and Why You Might Want One

Part of the appeal behind Marty's pickup is how relatable it was. It wasn’t futuristic or exotic; it fit right into the era when Toyota slogans focused on reliability, adventure, and the idea that your everyday truck could take you anywhere. Marty's SR5 captured that spirit perfectly — it was the kind of machine a teenager could dream of owning without feeling like the dream was out of reach.

If you ever find a car that appeared, even briefly, in a movie or TV show, it might just be worth grabbing. There are entire websites dedicated to tracing which vehicles were used in which productions. Sometimes a forgotten cameo turns a plain old car into something museum-worthy. If Marty's truck teaches us anything, it's that you never quite know which ordinary vehicle will become extraordinary a few decades later.

Between the nostalgia, the rugged charm of the old Toyota Pickup, the allure of the Back to the Future Tacoma nickname, and the undying affection fans have for Toyota's old-school toughness, Marty McFly's SR5 remains one of the most beloved "normal" movie cars ever made. It didn't need a flux capacitor. It just needed heart, a five-speed, and enough attitude to roll with the punches.

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For those unfamiliar, the current C63 uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four paired with a plug-in hybrid system. On paper, it outmuscles the previous V8 with a massive 671 horsepower (versus 503 hp), but the reception from enthusiasts has been lukewarm. Many argue that the C63—the flagship of the C-Class lineup—should have kept its V8 for the sound, feel, and overall character. Mercedes still uses V8s, though they’re now largely reserved for higher-end models like the AMG GT.

AMG’s Boldest Experiment Nears Its End

According to the memo, both the C63 and its compact crossover counterpart, the GLC63, are slated to drop the plug-in powertrain by May 2026. Other AMG models using the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engines—namely the C43, GLC43, and GLA35—are reportedly ending production even earlier, by February 2026. The GLA45 would be the only one left retaining the four-pot banger.

As for what comes next, details are still unclear. A return to a V8 seems unlikely, making a six-cylinder engine the most logical option—similar to what BMW uses in its M3 and M4 under the S58 family. The 3.0-liter inline-six PHEV from the CLE53 is a strong candidate—and AMG could unlock noticeably higher output with a C63-specific tune.

Given Mercedes’ direction, the next C63 could also lean further into electrification. The German automaker has pledged to go all-electric in select markets by 2030, a move that fits its premium image since electrified powertrains—seen in EVs like the EQS—offer smoother, quieter performance.

While we’re still waiting for official confirmation, the current Mercedes-AMG C63 starts at around $88,000 in the U.S. Its plug-in hybrid setup—paired with an AMG nine-speed automatic and standard all-wheel drive—allows the performance sedan to sprint from zero to 60 mph in about 3.3 seconds.

As the oldest surviving American automaker, Buick has a long and storied history, and there have been many Buick slogans chronicling it along the way. Oldsmobile, founded in 1897, used to be the oldest, but the brand was killed in 2004, leaving Buick as the only remaining one founded in the 1800s, in December of 1899 by David Dunbar Buick. Buick has survived beyond all odds, outliving other established GM brands such as Oldsmobile and Pontiac, and selling strongly today, perfectly positioned as GM’s semi-premium brand below Cadillac and above Chevrolet.

Introduction

Buick has always been an innovative brand, and is credited with the first overhead-valve engine, the first concept car (the Buick Y-Job), its Dynaflow variable-pitch automatic transmission, and the first standard electrical turn signals. This message has become somewhat lost over the years of Buick slogans, with most of them concentrating more on the brand’s quality, engineering, and premium positioning, such as with the famous When Better Automobiles are Built, Buick Will Build Them slogan. This resulted in a staid image that many successive taglines tried to fight with varying degrees of success.

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Buick’s efforts to pitch its cars as the preferred choice resulted in arguably its best-known tagline - Wouldn’t You Really Rather Have a Buick? - which became immortal thanks to catchy advertising and an unforgettable jingle. Today, Buick is a dynamic maker of premium cars, and very popular in markets such as China, too, not just America. And while its current slogan of Exceptional by Design is perhaps too generalized to really capture the imagination of Gen Z and Millennials, it really does encapsulate the brand’s core values. Let’s look at this and other Buick mottos over the years.

Buick Slogans Over the Years

Here is a summary of Chevy’s slogan history:

• Exceptional by Design (2024 to Present). The current Buick tagline was launched in 2024 to emphasize the innovative and aesthetic qualities of Buick cars, focusing on craftsmanship and artistry, with a more visual approach than the previous The Craft of Modern Luxury tagline. This new brand identity looks to the future and captures the essence of Buick’s key qualities of technology, luxury, and design, going hand in hand with Buick’s new design language, with its bold and dynamically sculpted surfaces.

… beautiful design and luxurious details set Buick apart from the competition, demonstrating exactly what it means to be premium. ~ Molly Peck, Chief Marketing Officer, Global Buick and GMC

• The Craft of Modern Luxury (2022-2024). Buick’s previous tagline introduced a new era of Buick, emphasizing the cars’ thoughtful features, design, and craftsmanship, and served to promote the brand’s new design language and its redesigned tri-shield Buick logo.
• Dream with Us (2022). Featuring Reese Witherspoon and in collaboration with her Hello Sunshine company, this campaign promoted Buick’s EV future, using the Wildcat EV concept car to illustrate some futuristic features, and is one of the recent dream-themed campaigns used by Buick, the previous having been the 2004 Dream Up campaign.

• Big Thrill’s Buick (2014). A series of ads challenging Buick’s traditionally staid image with humor and people in commercials being surprised to see the smart new Buicks.
• That’s Not a Buick / Yes, That's a Buick (2010s). This fairly recent campaign set out to attract younger buyers and challenged the perception that a Buick is an “old person’s car” with humorous ads focusing on a younger demographic and emphasizing the products’ quality and sales successes.

• The New Class of World Class (2009). This was essentially a rebranding campaign after GM’s bankruptcy and bailout to position Buick as a legitimate premium Lexus rival, using wording like “Another thing for Lexus to relentlessly pursue”.
• Dream Up (2004-2005). To the tune of Aerosmith’s “Dream On”, this campaign tried to attract baby boomers between 40 and 59 years of age by promoting the quietness, style, and craftsmanship of the Buicks of the time, such as the Terraza and LaCrosse.

• The Spirit of American Style (2002). Replacing the short-lived It’s All Good slogan, this one was meant to have a longer-term vision, blending style and humor and introducing new music. Strangely, it used the ghost of famous GM designer Harley Earl as a spokesperson.

• Buick. It’s All Good. (2001). This was a very short-lived campaign conceived by McCann-Erickson Worldwide and meant to attract younger buyers and modernize Buick’s image, but it was replaced within a year. It’s All Good was a slang term deemed cool by teens at the time. The campaign featured commercials directed by Tom Scott, who also worked on the Top Gun film.
• Isn’t It Time for a Real Car? (1998). One of many attempts to shake off its “old buyer” image, this campaign also tried to connect emotionally with younger buyers with the core message and central theme of “Real power. Real comfort. Real style. Isn't it time for a real car?”, differentiating Buick sedans in a sea of minivans and SUVs.
• Wouldn’t You Really Rather Have a Buick? (1965-1998). This long-running Buick tagline was also associated with the catchy jingle below, and is arguably Buick’s most famous and well-known slogan. It was first coined in 1965, but Buick revived it as recently as 2024/2025 by mentioning it in a Buick press release about the brand’s sales success over the last couple of years.

• The New Symbol for Quality in America (1989). During this period of market growth, Buick focused on quality engineering, and this campaign contributed, leading to an increase in sales in the ’90s.

• The Great American Road Belongs to Buick (1988-1989). This image-building effort promoted Buick’s sporty and upscale models, such as the Regal, Reatta, and Riviera, and is said to have been inspired by a Ford slogan.

• Buick… the Solid Feeling for 1973 (1973). A campaign during the first Oil Crisis to highlight that Buick was still a solid and reliable choice during a time of uncertainty.
• Something to Believe In (1971). Following the muscle-car era, Buick sought to focus more on features and product integrity, changing up its marketing from youth-oriented to a more mature, premium, and trustworthy image.
• The Clean Look of Action (1961). Used to introduce the newly restyled full-size Buicks for the 1961 model year, with their more horizontal and angular styling leaving behind the fins and flash of the ’50s, representing a “clean” new look.
• Whatever Car You Have in Mind, You’re Better Off with a Buick! (1959). A MY1959 campaign by the fresh agency McCann-Erickson, taking over from Kudner Advertising. It was a time of dramatic styling changes as brands like Buick tried to emulate Chrysler’s dramatic, finned “forward look” styling.
• Best Buick Yet (1940-1950s and 2014). In 1956, the classic campaign promoted Buick’s latest models and designs and highlighted engineering advances, such as the then-new advanced variable-pitch Dynaflow transmission, but the tagline dated seen as far back as 1940. It was revived in 2014, this time to modernize Buick’s image and to encourage customers to evaluate their perceptions of the brand with wording such as “One of five expectations-shattering models from Buick”.

• It Makes You Feel Like the Man You Are (1940s and 1950s). Used in the mid-20th century to market models such as the Roadmaster to men, focusing on engineering, prestige, and masculinity.
• When Better Automobiles are Built, Buick Will Build Them (1910 to 1960s). This Buick tagline apparently dates back all the way to the 1910s, but it’s become a well-known Buick phrase, used for many decades afterward.

• The Car of Quality (1905-1911). The very first Buick motto already placed the emphasis squarely on the company’s quality and craftsmanship.

Other Buick Slogans and Marketing Campaigns

Other Cadillac campaigns and taglines, some model- or year-specific, include:

• The Power of Understatement - Park Avenue cars
• You’re Due. Definitely Due. - Riviera
• Let Your Heart Have Its Say - 1961 Skylark
• Better Buy Buick - a 1950s tagline run in conjunction with the official When Better Automobiles are Built, Buick Will Build Them slogan.
• Smart Buy’s Buick - 1950s.
• No Wonder People Buy Buicks! - 1932.

“Wouldn’t You Really Rather Have a Buick?”

Thanks to its catchy jingle performed by Linda November and its sheer longevity, this is probably the most famous of all the Buick taglines over the decades. Its use declined in the ’80s, and it would survive until the ’90s. It’s been a very successful marketing campaign for the brand in its efforts to position itself as an aspirational and desirable upgrade within the GM family, just below the top-tier Cadillac brand. Advertisements directly targeted rivals such as Mercury and Chrysler, suggesting that Buick offered a superior automotive experience. It was a very successful campaign and became a pop-culture catchphrase.

Honorable Mention: “When Better Automobiles are Built, Buick Will Build Them”

Our older readers might object and say that this is, in fact, the most famous Buick slogan, because it would have resonated with them more, and because of its extraordinarily long life from the ’30s into the ’60s. In many ways, we regard it as equal to Wouldn’t You Really Rather Have a Buick?. It was only the second Buick slogan ever, and was tweaked as necessary for cars and light trucks, as you can see in the ads below. It was especially important at its inception at the start of the Great Depression as a statement of confidence that Buick wouldn’t just be around for the long haul, but would stay at the forefront of quality and affordability.

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Did You Know?

• Buick’s current Exceptional by Design slogan draws heavily on visuals and design, drawing inspiration from the Wildcat EV concept to create new Buicks inspired by nature, and introducing bolder front ends, innovative proportions, and sculpted surfaces.
• Buick’s 1965 Wouldn’t You Really Rather Have a Buick? campaign aimed to position Buick as a premium brand below Cadillac on GM’s “ladder of success” structure, giving loyal GM buyers a logical next step up in the brand hierarchy, from entry-level Chevrolet brand through Pontiac, Buick, and Cadillac.
• Buick’s When Better Automobiles are Built, Buick Will Build Them campaign was only the brand’s second, but it was extremely successful, presiding over a big sales boom in the ’20s and expanding Buick’s appeal. It was so recognizable that it was revived several times over the next 30-40 years.

FAQs

Q: What is the new slogan for Buick?

A: Buick’s current slogan is Exceptional by Design, and has been in use since early 2024 to signal the modern evolution of the Buick brand.

Q: What is Cadillac’s slogan?

A:Cadillac’s current slogan, adopted in 2025, is Let’s Take the Cadillac, recalling a similar 1955 slogan. Cadillac’s most famous slogan was The Standard of the World.

Q: What is Chevy’s slogan?

A:Chevrolet’s current slogan is Together, Let’s Drive, and has been in use since 2023. Chev’s most famous slogans are Like a Rock and Heartbeat of America.

Both sedans ride on the Hyundai-Kia N3 platform, which helps explain why they share the same problem. Hyundai’s recall affects 85,043 Sonata units from model years 2020–2023, while Kia’s campaign covers 250,547 K5 units from model years 2021–2024. The South Korean automakers estimate that only about one percent of the vehicles will experience the melting issue.

Things Are Heating Up

Although Hyundai and Kia conducted separate investigations, both identified the same root cause. A faulty purge-control system check valve in the 1.6-liter turbocharged powertrain may send compressed air into the fuel tank. If the expanded tank contacts hot exhaust components for an extended period, it can lead to fuel leakage and potentially a fire.

For reference, these midsize sedans—competitors to the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord—were originally equipped with the 1.6-liter turbo. More recent versions have moved away from that engine in favor of larger-displacement powertrains, including a hybrid option.

Fortunately, neither automaker is aware of crashes or injuries linked to the defect. Owners may be alerted to a problem by a popping sound from the fuel tank area, an illuminated check-engine light, rough running, fuel odor, or difficulty starting.

For the fix, Hyundai and Kia dealers will replace the check valve on affected vehicles. They will also inspect the fuel tank and surrounding parts and replace components as necessary. Additionally, an ECU software update will be performed.

Owner notification letters are scheduled to be mailed on January 16 next year.

You may want to know how to refinance a car to give you some breathing space on your monthly payments, but is it the right strategy for you? Can you refinance a car loan if you have bad credit, and what other options do you have to reduce your monthly payments? Let’s look at how to refinance car loans, what you should keep in mind, and how you can decide whether that’s the best option for your situation.

Advantages of Refinancing a Car

There are several potential upsides to refinancing:

• You may get a lower interest rate
• You have an opportunity to update the loan, e.g., removing a co-signer such as an ex-spouse
• You may get a longer repayment term to lower your monthly payments
• You may get a shorter repayment period if you want to pay off the car sooner

Disadvantages of Refinancing a Car

There are also several potential disadvantages:

• There are likely to be fees payable, such as prepayment penalties or application fees
• A refinance application requires a hard credit check, which may lower your credit score temporarily
• If your financial situation or credit score has deteriorated since you obtained the original loan, you’re unlikely to get a good deal
• You’ll pay more interest over the long term if you extend your loan period

How to Know If Refinancing Is the Right Call for You

If you are taking financial strain and you’re struggling to keep up with your car payments, refinancing is certainly one of the possible solutions. It allows you to restructure your loan to potentially get more favorable terms - perhaps a lower interest rate or a longer repayment period, which will both reduce your monthly payments. If your current loan has a high interest rate and your credit score has improved in the meantime, a refinanced loan can lower it, reducing the total amount you pay for the car in the end.

Refinancing is likely a bad idea if:

• There is only a short period remaining on your loan
• A small amount is outstanding on your loan
• Your car is older - typically more than 10 years and/or 100,000 miles
• You are upside down on your current loan, ie, the car’s book value is less than the existing loan’s outstanding balance
• Your vehicle may not qualify; disqualifications may include:
  A salvage title A flooded title A high level of customization If you use it for commercial purposes
• Your credit score has deteriorated since you got your original loan
• You have a reasonable interest rate on your current loan. Interest rates seem to be on the decline, with more cuts expected, so waiting it out may be better
• Your current lender may be willing to grant you a temporary payment holiday, which may be enough to get you out of a temporary tight squeeze without refinancing

How Credit Scores Work

Credit bureaus (like Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) calculate credit scores based on credit utilization, debt levels, credit mix, the length of your credit history, and other factors to determine how much of a risk a lender is. Numerical values are assigned based on these risk factors, and though assessment criteria vary somewhat, this rough guide will give you an idea of what interest rate you can expect, based on your credit score:

How to Refinance Your Car

To get the process going, follow these steps:

Look at Your Current Car Loan

Ask yourself what you want to do. Do you want relief in the form of a longer repayment period, resulting in lower monthly payments? Do you want to pay off your car sooner? High monthly payments and a high APR are both grounds for refinancing, keeping in mind the previously mentioned provisos. If your car qualifies, if you still owe a lot on it, if the repayment period is still several years long, and if you have a strong (or recently improved) credit score, refinancing makes sense.

Make Sure You Meet the Requirements

Approval criteria may differ, but most lenders look at broadly the same indicators when they get a refinance application. To this end, make sure that your debt-to-income ratio (DTI) is lower than 36% and your payment-to-income ratio is below 20%, and preferably below 15%. Lenders also look for signs of financial hardship, so red flags would include if you have more than one account in collections, being in arrears on your existing car loan or your general bills, or having declared bankruptcy recently. They also look at the length of your credit history and how long you’ve had credit accounts (also called trade lines). All of these metrics are used to gauge your risk.

Do a Credit Score and History Check

A free credit report is available from sources such as TransUnion or AnnualCreditReport.com. Check your report for incorrect personal information, closed accounts that are still listed as open, and other inaccuracies, and dispute them. You must know your credit score, and you can compare it to our table above to see how it rates. 

It would have to be in the Good category or better to be considered sound, but even if it’s improved one category over what it was before, it will still help your case. You can further boost your score by settling your bills, paying off credit balances, keeping the old accounts open to keep building your credit history, and not opening any new ones.

Compare Offers

Don’t just go with the first offer you get from a bank or finance house, as the terms may vary considerably, and you could get a better deal by shopping around in terms of fees, loan terms, and interest rates. You may also be able to get prequalification to give you something concrete to work with before you actually apply for the loan. Prequalification usually comes with a “soft” credit check that doesn’t affect your credit score. Also, compare repayment penalties, fees, terms, and everything else in the agreement, and read all the fine print.

Prepare Your Paperwork

Once you have jumped through all of these hoops, get all your paperwork in order and apply for refinance at the institution that offers you the best deal. You’ll need proof of your income, residency, and vehicle insurance as well. Your car must have a clean title, and you must have all the information relevant to it on hand, including its VIN, year, make, model, and current mileage.

Apply for Refinance

Depending on which bank or finance institution you go with, you may be able to apply for the refinance loan online, but others require an in-person application. You’ll go through the process of completing the application and submitting all the required paperwork, and then all you can do is wait to hear if you’ve been approved. Once you are, you’ll have to sign the loan documents.

Final Thoughts

We would recommend refinancing only under two conditions. The first is if you are financially struggling and you can substantially reduce your monthly repayments with a good or significantly improved credit score and a long enough repayment period (and high enough outstanding amount) to make it worth your while. 

The other condition is if you have the monthly income to pay off your car in a shorter period of time, and you need to refinance in order to get out of that longer original loan. Paying off debts faster if you can is always a great idea and can save you thousands in interest over the long term. Other than these two scenarios, refinancing may be more trouble than it’s worth, and save you little or nothing, after all the penalties and fees have been paid. Carefully make all the calculations and do the necessary homework before you commit.

The Car Care Nut, who has around 1.6 million subscribers on YouTube, explained that turbochargers make engines run hotter and operate under more stress, sometimes near their limits. The system he emphasized most was the engine oiling system, which he says is the first to suffer.

The Real Cost of Boost

Why? When turbochargers spool, they generate intense heat that drastically raises oil temperature. As he puts it, that heat “breaks down the oil very quickly.” This degradation affects engine life, which is why he recommends much shorter oil-change intervals than many manufacturers specify—every 3,000 to 4,000 miles. He also recommended premium-grade oil, which helps provide better protection against heat and wear, although it costs more than regular options.

Naturally, this is more expensive and time-consuming for owners of turbocharged vehicles, requiring more frequent trips to service shops. He acknowledges that. Still, he claims this practice helps engines achieve “impressive mileage without issues.”

He also pointed out that this oil-related concern is more common in gasoline engines than in diesels, largely because gas turbos spool higher. Automakers use turbos as they downsize engines to meet stricter emissions regulations, while also ensuring performance doesn’t drop despite the smaller displacement.

The Toyota Tundra is a good example of this trend. Its first two generations used a V8 that built a strong reputation for reliability. But when the third-generation Tundra arrived in 2022 with a twin-turbo V6, some owners raised concerns, and Toyota has already issued recalls affecting the new powertrain.

As a reminder, the mechanic’s take reflects his personal experience, not an established universal fact—so take it with a grain of salt.

Below is a deep dive into the most influential Toyota exterior colors, the Toyota color names enthusiasts still talk about, and the shades that shaped the brand's legacy.

Why Red Is the Heart of Toyota's Palette

When discussing Toyota car colors, red sits at the center of the conversation. The national flag certainly plays a role, but Toyota amplified the hue with a three-decade streak of iconic sports cars, rally machines, and high-performance models painted in vivid shades of crimson.

Super Red / Super Red II (3E5 / 3L2)

This is Toyota's "big one" — arguably the most famous Toyota red color name ever created.

Best known for:
A70 and A80 Supra
MR2 (AW11 and SW20)
Celica GT-Four
Corolla GT-S (AE86)

Why it became iconic:
Super Red was Toyota's way of broadcasting performance. Photographers joked that Toyota didn't need a marketing department for its sports cars — the paint job did the talking. It aged remarkably well, still popping on restored MR2s and Supras today.

Barcelona Red Metallic (3R3)

If Super Red was the hero color of Toyota's enthusiast era, Barcelona Red Metallic became the people's champion.

Popularized by:
RAV4
Camry
Corolla
Tacoma
Highlander

Emotional Red / Emotional Red II (3U5)

Toyota's modern crimson, developed for the GR range and halo products.

Featured on: GR86, GR Supra, GR Yaris in applicable markets. Deeper and more layered due to advanced multi-stage painting processes.

White: The Other Half of Toyota's DNA
White is more than a color for Toyota — it's the brand's visual backbone.

Super White (040)

Arguably, the most widely used Toyota color of all time. Seen on nearly every mass-market Toyota from the late 1980s onward. It became symbolic of Toyota's commitment to clean design and reliability.

Wind Chill Pearl / Pearl White (089)

Pearl finishes gave Toyota's sedans and SUVs a more upscale look. Popularized by Corolla, Camry, Highlander, RAV4, and the modern Toyota Crown.

A quick note about Lexus
Although Toyota and Lexus share certain philosophies, Lexus operates its own paint universe — including the LFA's Absolute White — a world best saved for another dedicated Lexus article.

Blue: Toyota's Surprise Strength

Enthusiasts often ask about the Toyota blue color name that defined the 90s, and Toyota delivered more than one memorable shade.

Electric Blue Mica (8P4)

A '90s classic. Popular on Celica, Corolla, RAV4, and early Prius models. Energetic, youthful, and unmistakable.

Cavalry Blue (8W2)

One of the most recognizable TRD tones, found on Tacoma TRD Pro, 4Runner TRD Pro, and Tundra variants. Cool, tactical, and immediately associated with Toyota's off-road lineup.

Voodoo Blue (8T6)

Bright, bold, and instantly recognizable. Seen on Tacoma TRD Pro, 4Runner TRD Pro, and the FJ Cruiser. One of the most discussed Toyota colors of the 2010s.

Greens, Earth Tones, and Retro Shades

Radiant Green Mica (6P3)

A cult favorite from the '90s. Used on Camry, Corolla, early RAV4, and several Japan-only models. Subtle and surprisingly elegant.

Quicksand

A modern classic. Popular on the Tacoma, 4Runner, and the FJ Cruiser. Gives Toyota trucks a rugged, adventure-ready personality.

Lunar Rock

Toyota's hybrid off-road identity distilled into a color. Seen on RAV4 Hybrid, RAV4 Prime, 4Runner, and Highlined in certain trims. It also hints at the cars' reliability and low Toyota maintenance cost.

Heritage Blue

A retro-inspired tone used for special Land Cruiser editions, designed to evoke Toyota's utilitarian past.

Sandstorm / Beige hues

Classic Land Cruisers frequently wore beige. Durable, dust-friendly, and suited for desert climates. An old-school favorite that continues to carry off-road credibility.

Silver, Gray, and Everyday Bestsellers

Classic Silver Metallic (1F7)

Toyota's global "safe choice." Timeless, durable, and present across nearly every segment.

Magnetic Gray Metallic (1G3)

A more premium neutral tone used widely across Toyota's modern midsize and full-size vehicles.

Design Influence: How Toyota Colors Shaped the Industry

Toyota has long viewed color strategically. Simple, enduring tones for mass-market cars and bold, expressive hues for performance and off-road variants.

Examples:
Super Red influenced an entire decade of bright-red Japanese sports cars.
Cavalry Blue and Voodoo Blue inspired the lifestyle-oriented off-road palette now common among rivals.
Lunar Rock encouraged competitors to adopt desaturated greens and gray-greens.
Classic Silver Metallic became a template for dozens of industry silvers.

Toyota's Most Timeless Colors

If I were to choose Toyota's greatest hits, then I would definitely go for the everlasting Super White, which was the base color for the magnificent Celica in the World Rally Championship. However, that would be a tough choice since, regardless of how meaningful this color is (although, technically, white is not a color), I have to admit it looks bland. As a result, the next in line is the fantastic Supr Red II, which fits any Toyota, from the pocket-sized Yaris to the Tacoma. Are these the only ones I'd choose? No! That's for sure. But they are on top of my list when it comes to Toyota colors. For Rivian colors, on the other hand, I wouldn't care about any white or red.

Decade Timeline: Toyota's Color Evolution

1960s–1970s

Utility-focused whites, blues, greens, and beiges.

1980s

Rise of Super White and brighter commuter colors.

1990s

Electric Blue, Radiant Green Mica, and the global dominance of Super Red II.

2000s

Metallic era: Classic Silver, Magnetic Gray, and refined pearlescent whites.

2010s

Off-road renaissance: Voodoo Blue, Quicksand, Cavalry Blue.

2020s

Lifestyle and premium shades: Lunar Rock, multi-layer reds, advanced pearls.

Like all the brands in the segment, the CX-90 came in various trims and with plenty of options to make buyers configure their cars according to their tastes. However, even the entry level of Mazda's flagship SUV was still garnished with everything someone would need from their vehicle, and then some more. We're going to explore all the grades and what you get for your hard-earned money. Below, you'll find a complete look at the layout, seating comfort, materials, technology, and usability — plus a detailed trim-by-trim feature table.

One Giant Step Above Its Predecessor

When Mazda introduced the CX-9 in 2006, it was still in the same boat as Ford, so it had some limitations. However, all things significantly changed when it developed the CX-90. The brand's flagship SUV relies on an entirely new architecture and shares nothing with the CX-9. Furthermore, it seems to be trying to cut a piece of Lincoln's pie. It also boasted lower maintenance costs than some of its direct competitors.

The Japanese automaker gave the CX-90 a cabin with a distinctly upscale personality, separating it from the norm with generous soft-touch surfaces, a horizontal dashboard design, and an immediate sense of calm as soon as you close the door. These attributes were not just Mazda slogans; these were actual feelings that customers experienced when they stepped inside this three-row SUV. Every trim feels well thought-out, but the Premium Sport stands out as the most balanced, offering nearly all the premium features without the step-up price of the very top grades.

Cabin Design & Layout: First Impressions

Mazda still believes in tactile control, which is why the Commander knob remains at the center console. It avoids the clutter of fingerprints and keeps eyes on the road, sticking to Mazda's traditionally driver-focused philosophy. The entry-level version of the CX-90 comes with a 10.25-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system, while from the Preferred and above grades, the automaker installed a larger, 12.3-inch display.

Buyers opting for the Premium Sport or higher grades got their vehicles fitted with a 12.3-inch fully digital cluster. In addition, the automaker continued its cooperation with Bose and offers a 12-speaker sound system from the Premium Sport grade up, while it equips lower grades with an eight-speaker system.

Fit and finish are consistent across all trims: tight stitching, minimal panel gaps, and solid-feeling switches. Small details — like the metallic accents on door handles or the knurled texture on climate dials — reinforce the idea that Mazda wants to bring some old-school craftsmanship into a modern environment.

Seating & Space by Row

Front Row

Up front, seating comfort is excellent even on the lower trims, thanks to standard power adjustment for the driver and generous bolstering. Step up to Premium Sport or Premium Plus and you gain:

• Ventilated front seats
• Nappa leather
• Memory settings
• Heated steering wheel

The upright driving position pairs well with the long hood and wide windshield, making the CX-90 feel substantial in a reassuring, traditional way.

Second Row

• The second row varies the most:
• Bench seat (standard on most trims)
• Captain's chairs (optional on mid trims; standard on S Premium & Premium Plus)
• Captain's chairs with console (exclusive to S Premium Plus)

Regardless of seating configuration, the second row gets its own climate zone, cupholders, and — on higher trims —:

• Heated seats
• Retractable sunshades
• Ventilated seats (Premium Plus)

Access to the third row is easy thanks to Mazda's tilt-and-slide function, even with a child seat installed, which is a thoughtful detail often overlooked in this class.

Third Row

The third row is designed for occasional adult use and regular child/teen use. Legroom is respectable, with complete AC vents and USB-C ports on all trims, but the seat sits close to the floor. It's comfortable for shorter trips and school runs, yet still roomier than many rivals. As expected, you won't find the third row in the upcoming Mazda sports car that it develops with Toyota.

In addition, all grades came with USB-C in all three zones, plus three-zone climate control standard across the range. It is worth mentioning that Mazda favored physical buttons instead of placing the HVAC controls on the touchscreen infotainment system.

Trim-Level Feature Breakdown

Interior Colors & Materials

Mazda offers a surprisingly rich palette for the CX-90 interior:

• Black (leatherette, leather, Nappa)
  Greige (leatherette, leather)
  Black/White Nappa
  Tan Nappa with quilting
  Japanese Premium White with Maple Wood + Kakenui Stitching

Why the Japanese Premium White Interior Matters

This combination is the jewel of the lineup — something genuinely unique in today's 3-row SUV segment. Mazda uses:

• Kakenui stitching, a traditional Japanese technique that creates a "floating stitch" suspended above the fabric
  Maple wood trim with a gentle satin finish
  White Nappa leather that transforms the CX-90 into something more boutique than mass-market

While other brands offer Nappa leather, leatherette, semi-aniline leather, or soft-touch plastics, no competitor combines Kakenui stitching with real Maple wood and Japanese Premium White upholstery. It's a cultural statement as much as it is a design choice.

Premium Sport: The Sweet-Spot Interior

Although the Premium Plus trims top the range, the Premium Sport feels like the model Mazda really wanted people to buy.
You get:

• Full-size 12.3" screens (cluster + infotainment)
• Nappa leather
• Heated/ventilated front seats
• Heated second-row (bench or captain's chairs)
• Bose audio
• Panoramic moonroof
• Ambient lighting
• Retractable sunshades
• Commander control + wireless charging

It's the trim where comfort, luxury, and price meet in a very satisfying middle ground. Think of it as the "traditional, well-equipped" choice — everything you realistically need without unnecessary extravagance.

Conclusions From the Driver's Seat

The CX-90 interior strikes a thoughtful balance between tradition and modernity. The layout favors clarity over spectacle, the materials feel genuinely upscale, and the ergonomics remain faithful to Mazda's driver-first philosophy. Everything you touch feels intentionally crafted rather than simply added to fill space.

There are moments where the cabin could use a bit more touchscreen freedom, and the third row is better suited for the younger travelers. But overall, Mazda has created one of the most refined interiors in the non-luxury segment — one that rewards both short commutes and long-distance family trips.

The Cadillac slogan has gone through an unbelievable number of evolutions and iterations since the company’s founding in 1902. As the most famous American luxury automaker with a long and storied history, it would be impossible to mention all the mottos and taglines used over the years, but we have assembled our favorites here and explained how they shaped the company’s history.

Introduction

Throughout the years, Cadillac’s mission statement of innovation and prestige, and building luxury cars of the highest standard, has been communicated in the many Cadillac slogans used over the decades. A mere 6 years after its founding, it won the prestigious British Dewar Award, and this set the scene for the most famous Cadillac tagline of all history - The Standard of the World. This level of precision engineering and peerless quality would become a central Cadillac hallmark, and many of its later mottos represented this in some form or another. 

Cadillac Slogans Over the Decades

Here is a summary of Chevy’s slogan history:

• Let’s Take the Cadillac (from 2025). This slogan, conceived by 72andSunny, joined Be Iconic in 2025 as a supplemental Cadillac motto in more recent marketing campaigns for EVs such as the Escalade IQ. It’s meant to encourage the special sense of shared social experiences among Caddy owners. It also has echoes of the 1955 They’ll Take the Cadillac Tonight campaign.

• Be Iconic (2021 to 2025). The main current Cadillac tagline and global identity since 2021, representing the idea of becoming the most iconic and aspirational version of yourself.
• Dare Greatly (2015). Modelled after Theodore Roosevelt’s The Man in the Arena speech, this advertising campaign served to rebrand Cadillac as a brand for risk-takers and forward thinkers. The digital content and advertisements depicted individuals with a “dare to” spirit, such as entrepreneurs, innovators, and designers.

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• Mark of Leadership (2010). The latest revival of the recurring “leadership” theme, this campaign was developed by Bartle Bogle Hegarty, and this slogan officially replaced The Standard of the World, which had been in use for more than a century. The TV commercial that launched it featured no voiceover, just music and text to highlight product features. 
• Break Through (2002). Following Art and Science, the Break Through campaign sought to revitalize Cadillac and turn it into a more modern and relevant brand, using Led Zeppelin’s Rock and Roll song to signify the focus on a younger audience. The spot debuted at the 2002 Super Bowl, featuring a 1959 Cadillac and a new CTS side by side.

• Art and Science (2000s). Cadillac’s new design philosophy for the 2000s gave rise to sharp lines and flat surfaces, presenting a modern new type of luxury and performance, called Art and Science - essentially the name of Cadillac’s new design language that repositioned the brand from its traditional image into the modern era.
• Encore! Nothing Says More About Cadillac Leadership (1973). Recalling the recurring “leadership” theme, this campaign built on the same message.
• Elegance in Action! (1968). Combining the concepts of style and luxury to promote 1968 Cadillacs.
• Cadillac … World’s Best Synonym for Quality! (1959). One of a flurry of 1959 taglines conceived to promote Cadillac’s peerless quality and prestige.

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• Cadillac … the New Measurement of Greatness (1959). Part of a broader marketing strategy that positioned Cadillac as the standard for achievement in luxury and its status as a symbol of the American Dream.
• Cadillac … a New Measure of Automotive Supremacy (1959 and current). Another ’50s slogan that was revived in the electric era to showcase Cadillac’s innovation and leadership.
• A New Realm of Motoring Majesty! - The 1959 Cadillac (1959). A tagline used to promote the 1959 lineup of Cadillac models that still had huge fins and lots of chrome.

• In a Realm All Its Own … Cadillac (1959, 2002). This ’50s tagline seems to have been reused in the 2000s to set Cadillacs apart from other luxury cars.
• Magnificent Beyond All Expectations! - Cadillac (1957). A 1957 campaign used at the height of Cadillac’s fame as an icon of design, quality, and style, particularly during the “fins” era.
• Finest Expression of Motordom’s Highest Ideal! (1957). Banking on Cadillac’s established reputation of quality and luxury at the time, this motto references the features that gave rise to Cadillacs being the standard of the world.
• It Gives a Man a New Outlook … Cadillac (1920s, 1957). This slogan has been attributed to different eras, and was apparently already in use in the ’20s, suggesting that a Cadillac owner’s perspective on life is elevated above the rest.
• They’ll Take the Cadillac Tonight! (1955). Symbolizing how a Cadillac is the object of luxury and desire, this slogan was said to controversially suggest how someone might want to steal it just to go out with it for a night, but the advertising material simply depicted a classy couple taking their Cadillac out for the night, so there may have been an urban legend involved here.

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• Those Who Want the Finest Want - the Standard of the World! (1953). A variation of the famous The Standard of the World slogan used in 1953.
• Cadillac Car Is One of the Soundest Investments in the Automotive World! (1953). Rooted in Cadillac’s established quality and engineering prowess that resulted in the famous The Standard of the World tagline, this one emphasized how these qualities helped Cadillacs retain their value for longer than other cars.
• More Eloquent than Words (1952). Rather self-explanatory, this ’50s slogan conveyed how a Cadillac’s exceptional design, quality, and luxury could not be described by mere words.
• It’s a “Who’s Who” of the Highway! (1952). This campaign cashed in on the notion that Cadillacs were such distinguished vehicles that their owners were themselves prominent, important, and successful people. It positioned Cadillac as not just a car, but a symbol of achievement and a high social standing.
• Cadillac Shows the World ...How Truly Magnificent a Motor Car Can Be! (1937-1938). By this time, Cadillac had become the epitome of quality and luxury in the car industry, and this campaign focused on models such as the LaSelle for their superlative engineering, prestige, and style, and came at a time when Cadillac was building its V16 engine.
• Leadership Rests on Achievement (1933). This 1933 campaign associated the Cadillac brand with successful individuals who had achieved status in life, and linked the achievements of owners to those of the Cadillac brand.
• The Penalty of Leadership (1912). This campaign focused on the idea that leadership comes with certain penalties, such as envy and emulation. It was a brilliant campaign, and one of the most impactful and influential ever for its ability to turn a negative into a positive and demonstrate how Cadillac is only attacked by the envious because it’s such an excellent product, and that a mediocre automobile would have been left alone.

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• Every Cadillac Is a Dewar Trophy (1911). This 1911 campaign capitalized on Cadillac’s 1908 Dewar Trophy win (see below), emphasizing how every Cadillac is built to the same peerless standard.
• Standard of the World (1908 to 2010). Cadillac’s most famous slogan was used for more than a century. It first appeared in 1908 after the Dewar Trophy demonstration, in which 3 Cadillac Model K cars were taken apart in England, their parts mixed up, and 3 cars reassembled from the mixed parts. All 3 cars were driven 500 miles without a problem, demonstrating Cadillac’s superb quality control and precision engineering, and winning it the 1908 Dewar Trophy.

• You Can Kill a Horse but Not a Cadillac (1905). First used only 3 years after the company’s founding, this historic Cadillac tagline was arguably the automaker’s first one ever, and emphasized that Cadillac cars had better longevity and quality than the most common form of transportation at the time - the horse.

Other Cadillac Slogans and Campaigns

Other Cadillac campaigns and taglines, some model- or year-specific, include:

• Never Stop Arriving - 2020 spot featuring Regina King.
• Edgar Scissorhands - 2011 spot featuring Winona Ryder and Timothée Chalamet.
• More Than a Car, It’s a Cadillac - 2007 British campaign.
• The Stuff of Legend - 2008 British campaign.
• Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit - 2007.
• Heritage Reborn - 2002 campaign.
• It’s Good to Be the Cadillac - 1999 Escalade.
• For the Time of Your Life - 1999 de Ville.
• Live Without Limits - 1997 Eldorado.
• Creating a Higher Standard - 1994 de Ville.
• Mine’s Bigger - a 1987 TV commercial playing on the “bigger is better” theme.

• Best of All … It’s a Cadillac - 1985 Eldorado.
• Introducing the New Look of Leadership - 1971.
• World’s First Personal Luxury Car - 1967 Eldorado.
• Go West Young Man … In a 1966 Cadillac! (1966) - an evocative, supplementary marketing phrase used to present the 1966 Cadillacs as a symbol of American entrepreneurship and freedom, originating in the 19th-century “go West” phrase as the country was expanding westward.
• It’s Great … Going Cadillac - 1966.
• Elegance is the Word - 1960s.
• The Best of Years to Make It Yours! - 1960s.
• Unique Acclaim - Even for a Cadillac (1960) - a 1960 tagline used for models such as the Eldorado Biarritz.
• ‘Elegance’ Is the Word that Expresses It! - 1960.
• Unrivaled for Enduring Worth! - 1960 Cadillac Fleetwood Series 75.
• The Choice Without a Compromise… - 1959 de Ville 4-door sedan.

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• Cadillac … Universal Symbol of Excellence (1959) - one of the many late-’50s taglines that promoted the brand’s quality and status.
• It Outsteps Its Own Great Traditions! - used specifically for the 1958 Eldorado Brougham.
• Leadership (1933, 1958, and 1973). Leadership as a theme returned to Cadillac campaigns many times over the years.
• The New Cadillac Is so Practical to Own and so Economical to Operate that It Is Acknowledged Motordom's Wisest Investment (1930s/1961) - a marketing message from the Great Depression that some sources suggest was revived in 1961.

Ambition is a dream with a V8 engine. ~ Elvis Presley singing about Cadillac

“The Standard of the World”

The slogan has always meant that a Cadillac is built like no other car, and this was proven in 1908 when the company won the prestigious Dewar Trophy from the Royal Automobile Club of Great Britain for innovation in automobile engineering. Cadillac proved that complete parts interchangeability was possible between different cars if their manufacturing precision was up to scratch. This feat revolutionized the motoring industry and proved that Cadillac truly was the standard of the world as far as quality and craftsmanship were concerned, and that Cadillac cars were the worldwide quality and excellence benchmark.

This was the background that gave rise to The Standard of the World, Cadillac’s most famous and enduring slogan in history, and a reminder that the automaker’s engineering excellence and manufacturing precision made it the quality standard of the automobile world. Cadillac’s precision-engineered, interchangeable parts were the envy of other automakers, and the slogan continued to be used for decades afterward to signify American achievement, success, and luxury. The automaker continued to uphold this standard and remained an innovator with achievements such as the V16 engine in 1914 and the electric self-starter in 1912.

Singles hitters drive Fords. Home-run hitters drive Cadillacs. ~ Pete Rose

Did You Know?

• Before Cadillac demonstrated that it was possible in 1908, no car in the world was so precisely engineered that its parts could be swapped out with those of another car of the same type to any significant degree and remain functional.
• Cadillac winning the prestigious Dewar Trophy in 1908 is well-known, but the company won the award a second time in 1912 thanks to its invention of the electric starter motor.
• The current Let’s Take the Cadillac to imply that it’s a car for special occasions reminds one of the 1955 Tonight They’ll Take the Cadillac! slogan, which meant that someone would want to steal a Cadillac, even just to go out in it for a night. Whether this was intentional or not is unclear, but it’s an interesting coincidence.

FAQs

Q: What is the slogan for the Cadillac Escalade?

A: The current Escalade marketing mostly uses the Let’s Take the Cadillac corporate slogan, but past Escalades have used the Make Your Way slogan.

Q: What is the Cadillac logo’s meaning?

A: The Cadillac logo is based on the coat of arms of the French explorer who founded Detroit - Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac - and is a shield symbolizing strength.

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Q: What does Cadillac stand for?

A: Cadillac comes from the name of the French explorer who founded Detroit - Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac.

What Exactly Are License Points in the U.S.?

Most American states have a demerit point system—a running tally of violations like speeding, reckless driving, or ignoring a traffic sign. Rack up enough points and you can face insurance hikes, mandatory driving courses to learn where you can turn left on red, or even a suspended license.

But here's the twist: not all states use the system.

A number of states don't issue driver "points" at all. Instead, they track violations internally and take action based on your record rather than your score. It's a patchwork approach, which is why drivers often get confused — especially those who moved from one state to another. And if, while going to your new address, you hear weird knocking sounds while driving, that's a different type of worry altogether.

States That Do Not Use a Driver-Point System

These states traditionally do not operate a public points system:

• Hawaii
• Kansas
• Louisiana
• Minnesota
• Mississippi
• Oregon
• Rhode Island
• Washington
• Wyoming

Everywhere else, the state either uses a full demerit-point system or a simplified version of it. So, if someone in Colorado or Arizona reads this, they can see immediately whether the system applies to them.

How to Check How Many Points You Have (U.S. DMV Method)

Nowadays, checking your points online is easy. That's the modern way, and many DMVs allow you to log in, verify your identity, and download your driver record. As a result, if you wonder whether you can check your license points online, the answer is yes in most states. Some let you view the record instantly, while others make you request a downloadable PDF or pay a small fee. If your state doesn't use points (like Hawaii or Washington), you will still see violations, even though they aren't expressed as a numerical score.

Request by Mail or In Person

If online systems aren't available, or if your state insists on verification through a physical document, you can request your driver record:

• In person at a DMV counter
• By mail using a request form
• Through an authorized third-party partner (varies by state)

This is common in smaller states or in locations where online identity verification is still limited.

Check Through Your Insurance Provider

Insurance companies don't always show your point total, but they do factor your violations into your renewal quote. If your premium has suddenly jumped, it might be worth pulling your record to verify whether any new infractions were added.

How Many Points Do You Get for Different Violations?

Not all states are using the same system, so the correct answer to this question is "depending on where you live." For instance, in New York, you'll get 3 points for speeding one to 10 mph over the speed limit, and 6 points for texting while driving. Moreover, if you accumulate 11 points in 18 months, your driver's license will be suspended.

In Florida, on the other hand, you get 3 points for minor moving violations and up to 6 for reckless driving.

California looks like it's more relaxed and rewards drivers with 1 or 2 points, depending on severity. The DUI, for instance, is 2 points. Minor violations include, but are not limited to, rolling stops, a few miles per hour extra (below 10). However, for not wearing a seatbelt, you won't get any points, but in New York, a driver can receive three penalty points for failing to properly buckle a child under 16, plus a fine.

6 Is The Limit

While you can still usually drive with six points on your license, you are in the danger zone. However, if you get another point after you leave home, you can still legally drive back. Usually, it takes some time until that point is activated. But once DMV mails you a warning, a notice of suspension, a request to attend a hearing, or an order to take a defensive-driving course, you'd better give your keys to someone else to drive. Suspension only becomes active after the DMV officially issues it, and they always send a written notice with an effective date.

What to Do If You Have Points on Your License

You can improve your standing on the road by taking a state-approved driver-improvement course, which in many states removes anywhere from two to four points once you complete it. Another smart move is simply driving clean for a while, since points often expire automatically after one to three years, depending on your state's rules. It also helps to stay on top of any mechanical issues that could lead to violations — ignoring something as simple as what is L on the gearshift or putting off repairs can snowball into bigger problems. And once a year, it's worth requesting a fresh copy of your motor-vehicle record to make sure everything is accurate; mistakes are uncommon, but they do happen.

Final Point

Checking your license points in the U.S. is part online search, part knowing how your particular state handles violations. Some use detailed point systems; others simply track your record and take action as needed. Either way, keeping an eye on your standing is smart — it saves money, protects your license, and keeps you in control behind the wheel.

When in doubt, pull your driver record, keep things polished, and keep driving the way your future self would thank you for.

The Chrysler Hemi motor is a 90-degree pushrod V8, ranging in capacity from 3.9L to 6.4L, and with either natural aspiration or supercharging. The name “Hemi” has been applied to this family of Chrysler V8s, as well as the Hemi-6 used in Australian Chryslers, and the Mitsubishi Astron that Chrysler installed in some American-market vehicles, so what is a Hemi, and what does “Hemi” mean, exactly? It refers to the hemispherical shape of the combustion chamber that all three of these otherwise unrelated engines have in common. 

The dome-shaped combustion chamber had a valve on each side of the head, necessitating a cross-flow head design. The Hemi head design is considered to be one of the most efficient designs for engines with only 2 valves per cylinder, and has an excellent surface-to-volume ratio and potentially high power outputs. Its main disadvantages are the fact that no more than 2 valves per cylinder are possible, and they have a rather complex valve train.

Development and Timeline

Chrysler first built a hemispherical OHV V8 for use in the P-47 Thunderbolt war plane, but World War II was coming to an end, and it was never used. The first Hemi went into production in 1950 in MY1951 Chryslers, but was initially called the FirePower V8, despite its hemispherical combustion chambers, so this first-generation engine was only retrospectively called a Hemi. This generation lasted until 1958, when Chrysler launched the B engine with a wedge-shaped combustion chamber. After temporarily abandoning the Hemi design, Chrysler would return to the format in 1964, with the second generation built until 1971.

Only 32 years later, in 2003, the 3rd Hemi engine arrived, updating the format for the 21st century, now with a slightly flatter combustion chamber that was no longer a true hemisphere. While the cylinder block was still made from cast iron, it was a far more sophisticated engine, with coil-on-plug ignition with 2 spark plugs per cylinder. In this article, we are only going to look at the third generation of the V8 Chrysler Hemi engine, made from 2003.

Evolution

The 5.7L Hemi V8 was updated with variable cam timing, a multi-displacement or MDS system (essentially cylinder-deactivation technology to save fuel), a variable-length intake manifold, and hybridization in the late 2000s as part of the Eagle update. Not all cars equipped with the engine received all of these features. The 6.1L arrived in 2004 for MY2005 vehicles with various revisions, better cooling, a lighter rotating assembly, and stronger internals. 

Neither of the 5.7L’s variable-length intake nor MDS systems featured on the 6.1L. The 6.4L Apache was available as a crate engine from 2005, but it shares few parts with the 2010 production version, which remains available on the Ram HD trucks to this day. The heavily revamped and strengthened 6.2L Hellcat featured supercharging and over 1,000 hp in its top form on 170-proof ethanol.

Hemi V8 Problems

The Hemi V8 is a tough engine, and in its simplest versions, there is little that typically goes wrong if it’s properly maintained. However, as the years went on and more tech was added, some problems arose. Among them are:

• Overheating. Overheating can happen with age, so it’s important to make sure the cooling system is always in tip-top shape. with no leaks and the right blend of water and antifreeze in the coolant. Overheating my cause a valve seat to drop, which can wreak havoc with an engine. You’ll remember how this issue also affected the 3.7L and 4.7L PowerTec engines.
• Ignition issues. They aren’t all that common, but misfires can occur due to dodgy ignition coils and faulty injectors, accelerated by poor maintenance. Keep in mind that the Hemi has a complicated ignition system with 16 spark plugs - 2 per cylinder - so don’t fall behind on maintenance and parts replacements.
• Oiling and lubrication issues. Deferred oil changes, low oil, and oil sludge can kill any engine, so we put these together under one heading. The Hemi is sensitive to lax maintenance, especially the later ones with the MDS and VVT systems, which can fail due to dirty or low oil. This can cause hydraulic lifters to collapse and roller lifters to seize, leading to camshaft damage and the dreaded “Hemi tick”.
• Exhaust manifold leaks. The exhaust manifolds can leak when bolts fail, and this may also emit a ticking sound, so have the sound properly diagnosed before you start replacing parts.
• Oil leaks. This happens to all old engines, and the Hemi is no exception. Keep an eye out for oil leaks from the front and rear main seals, the valve covers, and the back of the transmission oil pan.
• Emissions system issues. The Hemi’s emission controls are known to fail at high mileages, so be aware of a smell from the exhaust and the Check Engine Light with emissions codes - you may fail an emissions test.

Most problems afflict the 5.7L Hemi because it’s the only one commonly found with the VVT and MDS systems. The early 6.1L and 6.4L engines are generally simpler, but the latest 6.4L engines still in use have all of these systems now, so make sure it gets fresh oil frequently. Frequent servicing and proper care can avoid most costly Hemi issues. The most problematic years seem to be 2005, 2006, 2011, and 2012.

Cars Using Chrysler Hemi V8 Engines

The 3rd-gen Hemi V8 has only been used in Stellantis products:

• 2003-2026 Ram trucks
• 2004-2025 Dodge Durango
• 2005-2008 Dodge Magnum
• 2005-2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee
• 2005-2023 Chrysler 300C/300/300S
• 2006-2010 Jeep Commander
• 2006-2023 Dodge Charger
• 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen
• 2009-2023 Dodge Challenger
• 2021-2024 and 2026 Ram 1500 TRX
• 2021-2025 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon 392
• 2022-2023 Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer
• 2026 Dodge Durango R/T

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FAQs

Q: What is a Hemi engine?

A: A Hemi engine is an engine with a hemispherical combustion chamber, and today, most people understand “Hemi” to refer to the V8 engine Chrysler has been manufacturing since 2003. However, other engines with a similar combustion chamber design have also been called Hemis.

Q: What is so special about a Hemi engine?

A: The Hemi is a durable and extremely versatile V8 engine that does duty in work trucks as well as 1,000-hp performance cars when supercharged. It has become very popular, loved, and widely used since 2003.

Q: Why is a V8 called a Hemi?

A: It’s called a Hemi due to its dome-shaped, hemispherical combustion chamber design.

Q: Are Hemi engines V6 or V8?

A: The 3rd-gen Hemi engine is exclusively a 90-degree V8 gas engine. The V6 Chrysler engine is called the Pentastar and has a 60-degree angle and overhead-cam valve gear. It’s not related to the Hemi at all.

The P0443 code indicates that your vehicle’s engine control module (ECM) has detected that there is an electrical malfunction in the purge control valve circuit, which is part of the EVAP (Evaporative Emission Control) system. This system prevents fuel vapors from escaping into the atmosphere by containing and storing them, and then routing them to the engine to be burned. When the ECM cannot properly control the EVAP system’s purge valve (below), it triggers the P0443 code, often seen on vehicles such as Ford, Chevrolet, Toyota, Hyundai, and others.

This engine code is another example of a generic or universal diagnostic trouble code (DTC), which has the same basic meaning and definition on all vehicles built from 1996 onward and with an OBD-II or European EOBD onboard diagnostic system. This means that P0443 on Ford vehicles has the same meaning as it would have on a BMW, Porsche, or Chevy.

What the EVAP Purge Valve Does

The EVAP system’s purge control valve opens at specific times to redirect fuel vapors from the system’s charcoal canister into the intake manifold for the engine to burn. The ECM controls this valve electronically based on various inputs, and if the ECM detects no circuit response, a high resistance, or a short, it will log the P0443 code.

Common Causes of P0443

Symptoms of P0443

Most vehicles will still drive normally with this code active, but you may notice the following symptoms:

• The Check Engine Light (CEL) is illuminated on your dashboard
• There has been a slight deterioration in your vehicle’s fuel economy
• There is a strong fuel smell, especially when the car is parked
• Possible EVAP readiness test failure during an emissions test

There are usually no major performance issues noticeable, since this problem mostly affects emissions rather than the combustion process or engine operation.

How to Diagnose the P0443 Code

A technician or DIYer can take the following steps:

1. Scan for additional EVAP error codes (these can narrow down the root cause).
2. Inspect the purge valve’s wiring for cracking, rubbing, or corrosion.
3. Test the purge valve for resistance; a failed valve will show an open circuit or incorrect ohm readings.
4. Check for a voltage at the purge valve’s connector.
5. Perform an EVAP purge command test with a scan tool to see if the valve responds.

Common Repairs for the P0443 Engine Code

FAQs

Q: How to fix the P0443 fault code?

A: Start by testing and likely replacing the EVAP purge valve first, as this is most often the culprit. If it checks out fine, inspect the wiring and electrical connectors for damage.

Q: Can you drive with a P0443 code?

A: Yes, the vehicle will typically be perfectly drivable and display no symptoms except for the illuminated Check Engine Light, but the emissions may be higher, and this may cause the vehicle to fail a smog test.

Q: Can I replace a canister purge valve myself?

A: Yes, the purge valve is usually fairly easy to access, and replacement is often a fairly easy DIY job that doesn’t take much longer than about 10 to 20 minutes.

Q: Does P0443 affect fuel efficiency?

A: It may cause a slight increase in fuel consumption due to fuel escaping via uncontained fuel vapors, but there should be no noticeable loss in engine performance. Your vehicle is likely to fail its emissions test, though.

Over the years, only a small handful of McLaren colors became instantly recognizable — and that’s perfectly fine. You don’t need a zillion paint options when the brand’s true greatness has always lived under the skin, not splashed across it. And while enthusiasts still love debating whether the Lamborghini Miura was the first supercar, most people agree that the McLaren F1 was the first true hypercar. In other words, McLaren never needed to shout; its engineering spoke for itself.

In this guide, we'll walk through the brand's most influential hues, why they mattered, how they evolved, and how they quietly nudged industry trends in new directions. And just like in our Rivian Colors deep-dive, you'll find historical notes, design influence, a timeline, and my own take on the shades that will stay timeless no matter how many MSO palettes appear in the future.

McLaren Orange (Papaya / Heritage Orange)

Introduced: Late 1960s
Models: M7A, M16, Can-Am cars, 570S, 720S, MSO specials
Notable code: McLaren Orange hex code: #FF8700

This is the big one — the color that put McLaren on the map. Bruce McLaren chose this loud, high-visibility orange for the team's Can-Am cars, and it instantly became their calling card. Back then, most teams blended into sponsor liveries, but McLaren carved out its own space with one fearless stroke of paint. No wonder that Steve Hamilton's collection reserved a spot for this brand.

Fast-forward decades, and Heritage Orange is still the most emotionally loaded shade the brand has. Drop it on a 720S or an MSO-built Artura, and it feels like a direct handshake with Bruce McLaren himself.

Volcano Orange

Introduced: 2011
Models: MP4-12C, 650S

Volcano Orange took the classic Papaya idea and dialed it into the modern era — deeper, warmer, full of pearl and metallic layers. It's the paint that helped the 12C glow under showroom lights and gave McLaren its first "fan favorite" road-car shade of the 2010s. Even today, it feels alive in the sun.

McLaren Gray (Blade Silver / Storm Gray / Sarthe Gray)

Introduced: Early 2000s–2010s
Models: SLR McLaren, 570S, 600LT, GT

McLaren has a whole family of grays, but they all share the same character: clean, technical, a little cold in the best way. On performance cars with sharp aero and organic curves, gray lets the design do the talking without shouting over it.

Sarthe Gray, in particular, is the connoisseur's choice. When you see it on an SLR McLaren, you immediately get why — the color sits perfectly on its long nose and sculpted sides.

McLaren Light Blue (Cerulean / Paris Blue / Curacao Blue)

Introduced: 1990s (special F1 orders), standardized in 2010s
Models: F1 (select builds), 720S, 765LT, Artura

Light blue is where McLaren quietly shows its softer side. Several Gordon Murray–era F1s wore delicate blue shades, and modern MSO programs have revived that idea in spectacular ways: Cerulean, Curacao, Paris Blue — all slightly different, all charming.

And on some cars, like the 765LT, these blues somehow take a razor-sharp track weapon and give it a sense of grace. Furthermore, its design lets only the connoisseurs know that it's one of the best British brands.

Volcano Red & Vermillion Red

Introduced: 2010s
Models: 12C, 650S, 720S

These deep metallic reds aren't historically tied to McLaren, but they've become a modern staple. Volcano Red is the luxurious one; Vermillion is the vivid one. Either way, they offer drama without tipping into flashiness.

Abyss Black / Carbon Black

Introduced: Late 1990s
Models: F1, 720S, GT, Artura

Black has always fit McLaren well. Their black paints tend to lean cool rather than warm, giving the cars a sharper, more aggressive silhouette. On the F1 and later on stealth-spec 720S models, Carbon Black highlights the pure engineering focus of the brand.

Design Influence

Papaya/Heritage Orange brought back the idea of motorsport-derived signature shades. Suddenly, other brands began revisiting their own heritage palettes.

Volcano Orange and Volcano Red kicked off the hyper-metallic craze of the 2010s — the kind of deep, liquid-looking finishes you now see across everything from AMG to Aston Martin.

Light blues helped normalize softer, pastel-influenced colors in the supercar world, a trend we also noted in Rivian Colors.

Technical grays reinforced the "engineering-first aesthetic" that became common in performance brands during the past decade.

McLaren never set out to lead color trends, but by sticking to its identity, it ended up doing exactly that.

Timeless McLaren Shades: My Choice

If I had to pick the McLaren colors that will still feel right 30 years from now, three stand miles above the rest — each with its own story.

Heritage Orange (Papaya)

This shade isn't just important — it's the heartbeat of McLaren. Nothing nails this better than the McLaren F1 LM, the ultra-rare Papaya-orange road car that was actually more potent than the Le Mans–winning F1 GTR. Seeing one is like watching McLaren's entire history distilled into a single machine. If any color deserves the word "timeless," it's this one.

Sarthe Gray

Understated, elegant, and proudly British. Sarthe Gray has this wonderful way of letting the car's shape speak. On the SLR McLaren, the color adds a quiet seriousness that fits the car's long nose and aero-driven curves. It's a shade that never tries too hard — and that's why it works.

Cerulean Light Blue

A softer tone, but one that brings out McLaren's more artistic side. On the 765LT, Cerulean transforms an otherwise ferocious track machine into something surprisingly refined. It smooths the edges without hiding the character. Not many colors can do that.

Visual Timeline

• 1960s–1970s – Papaya/Heritage Orange
• 1990s – Light blue on select F1s
• 2000s – McLaren Gray range expands
• 2011–2016 – Volcano Orange, Volcano Red
• 2017–present – Modern MSO blues and satin heritage tones
• 2020s – Return of retro-inspired palettes with multi-stage finishes

This means customers can browse Amazon for a used Ford vehicle and, if they find the right one, can complete the paperwork from the comfort of their homes. However, they still need to pick up the vehicle at a participating dealership—so no Amazon-style delivery for four-wheelers. The e-commerce platform simply facilitates the transaction.

Ford’s Virtual Showroom

The new program offers a wide array of Ford models, from pickup trucks like the Ranger and F-150 to electric vehicles such as the Mustang Mach-E. Since these cars fall under the automaker’s certified pre-owned program, Ford technicians have performed a thorough inspection to ensure they are in tip-top shape.

In addition, vehicles sold through this platform come with a 14-day/1,000-mile money-back guarantee and warranty coverage that can be as long as 12 months or 12,000 miles on certain certification tiers.

Customers will only see listings within a 75-mile radius of their location. For now, the program is available only in Los Angeles, Seattle, and Dallas, although Ford plans to expand it to more markets.

In a press release, Robert Kaffl, executive director of Ford U.S. Sales and Dealer Relations, said:

“Amazon Autos allows Ford Dealers to offer their certified pre-owned vehicles through Amazon’s accessible digital platform, while maintaining the benefits that customers enjoy from their relationships of our Ford Dealers. It’s about delivering the best of both worlds to our customers.”

With the Blue Oval brand officially joining the platform, it becomes the second automaker to do so after Hyundai. Unlike Ford, the South Korean automaker also sells brand-new vehicles on Amazon Autos, including the all-electric Ioniq 6, one of the cheapest cars to maintain in the U.S.

The relatively affordable price tag means the next owner can save more money for the restoration of this 1957 Chevrolet 3600. This model is part of the Bowtie brand’s Task Force truck range, designed to meet mid-century workhorse mobility needs. During its era, the truck competed against the likes of the Ford F-100 and the Dodge Town Panel.

Aged but Solid

This particular example is equipped with an upgraded small-block V8 engine, though the performance ratings weren’t disclosed. The listing also notes that the engine bay features an air-conditioning compressor—something definitely not available back in the day. These modifications suggest improved performance and added comfort compared to the original setup.

However, it’s been a while since the engine last ran. Before it was parked, the truck reportedly had no issues starting, but the next owner will likely need to allocate some budget to get the power unit running in tip-top shape again. It also comes equipped with a three-speed manual gearbox.

Exterior-wise, the body shows its age, with tired Cream paint and some visible wear. The original bed has been replaced by an aftermarket utility unit with locking tool cabinets, giving the truck a more work-ready look and added functionality.

With its upgraded V8 and generally solid bones, there’s a good chance the Chevy can be revived without needing a full teardown. The listing even suggests that this truck would make a strong rat rod candidate. For those unfamiliar, a rat rod is a custom build style that embraces patina, mismatched parts, and a deliberately unfinished look—think a mild, street-legal version of that Mad Max vibe.

Interested individuals can check out this $4,000 truck in Rancho Cucamonga, California.

The dealership at the center of the case is Car Capitol, located at 6354 N. Mesa in West El Paso. Owner Perry Wolfe has been charged with fraudulent transfer of a motor vehicle, while two of his employees, Regina Ozaeta and Mario Uribe, have been charged with tampering with government records.

Why Paperwork Matters

Improperly handled car titles can create major problems for unsuspecting buyers. If the paperwork isn’t completed legally, a vehicle’s registration may not be valid, opening the door to issues during traffic stops or when trying to renew documents. In more severe cases, buyers may end up unable to legally sell their vehicles later on, since a questionable title can trigger legal disputes, prevent transfers, or reduce the car’s market value significantly.

A look at Car Capitol’s public-facing website shows the business offers a broad mix of used vehicles. Listings range from affordable daily drivers like the Toyota Corolla to luxury models such as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and Land Rover Range Rover. The dealership also advertises EVs like the Tesla Model 3.

Beyond sales, the business promotes financing options for customers with poor credit and operates a rental service with rates that vary from around $50 a day for mainstream models like the Chevrolet Malibu to roughly $730 a day for high-end options like the Aston Martin DBX, a twin-turbo V8 SUV producing about 540 horsepower.

Officials have not said how many vehicles may be tied to the alleged illegal transfers, though El Paso County Tax Assessor-Collector Ruben Gonzalez released a statement, saying:

“The Office of the County Tax Assessor-Collector takes these types of offenses seriously. We will do our best to protect our citizens from these types of fraudulent title transfer transactions.”

For now, the future of the dealership’s operations remains uncertain.

For the demonstration, Nissan used the latest fourth-generation Murano, which starts at $42,000 in the U.S. It’s a five-seat midsize crossover competing against models like the Chevrolet Blazer and Hyundai Santa Fe.

Refinement in Action

The tour began inside the environmental chamber, a facility designed to evaluate how vehicle components sound under extreme temperatures. The chamber can heat parts to around 110°F or cool them down to as low as –40°F. Temperature changes can alter how materials behave—for example, aluminum expands when heated, which can subtly change the noises or vibrations a part produces.

Because the U.S. spans a wide range of climates—from Arizona’s extreme heat to Alaska’s subzero winters—these tests help ensure vehicles perform consistently for different types of drivers across the country.

On top of temperature cycling, engineers can apply vibrations that simulate rough-road conditions, letting them hear how the vehicle responds over harsher surfaces and putting components like the suspension through more demanding NVH testing.

Another area in the facility is the hemi-anechoic chamber, which is used to measure a vehicle’s acoustic performance. Many car parts—such as door panels, carpeting, and the headliner—are designed with sound-absorbing materials to reduce outside noise from entering the cabin, and vice versa.

There is no universal, standardized test that ranks NVH performance across the entire industry. However, it’s widely recognized that luxury models like the Lexus LS and Mercedes-Benz S-Class are among the most refined vehicles on the market.

Nissan also highlighted how it evaluates its in-car audio systems. Engineers use a binaural head equipped with two microphones that mimic human ears to measure how the sound system performs inside the cabin. While Toyota often partners with JBL and Ford works with B&O (Bang & Olufsen), Nissan typically equips its vehicles with Bose audio systems.

NVH may not be the flashiest spec on paper, but it plays a quiet yet essential role in car development—especially as EVs like the Lucid Air raise expectations for refined cabins.

There have been some famous Audi paint colors over the years, and some of them have made certain Audi models famous; can you imagine that a ’90s Audi RS2 Avant should be painted any other color than Nogaro Blue? In fact, a sporty Audi in a blue color is as much a part of the brand’s identity as Subaru’s WR Blue Pearl paint.

Our Top 10 Favorite Audi Colors

Here are our top 10 favorite Audi paint colors ever:

1. Nogaro Blue

Debuted on the Audi RS2 Avant (1994)

Everybody remembers the stunning Porsche-made Audi RS2 Avant in all the press photos when the first RS-badged Audi debuted in 1994, debuting Audi’s Nogaro Blue pain color. It’s become as synonymous with Audi as WR Blue Pearl is with Subaru. It has a subtle purple undertone that makes the light dance, morphing it from electric blue to a deeper blue hue, depending on the angle of the light, giving it an unusual richness. Today, Nogaro Blue is a rare color, primarily available as an expensive custom color through Audi Exclusive.

2. Nardo Gray

Audi RS7 Sportback (2013)

This flat, non-metallic paint is a medium-tone gray hue with hints of blue, and was initially an exclusive RS7, but it became an option on other RS models soon afterward, and was then rolled out to more Audi models. It’s named for the color of the asphalt of the Nardò test track in southern Italy, and gives sporty Audis a modern, sleek, and aggressive look. It’s also notoriously difficult to color-match during repair work due to being non-metallic with unique undertones. In 2025, you can still get Nardo Grey paint on sporty Audis, notably the S6, S7, and RS7 Sportback Performance, the latter shown below:

3. Misano Red

Audi TT ALMS Edition Quattro (2002)

This vivid but classy red pearl-effect shade with the LZ3M paint code appears to have been used for the first time on a special edition of the Mk1 Audi TT - the ALMS Edition Quattro that you can see below. It was a special color for a special car; only 1,000 units of the TT ALMS were made to pay tribute to Audi’s American Le Mans victories in 2000 and 2001. The color has been offered on numerous Audis since, but is no longer available on new Audis in 2025, and appears to have been discontinued in 2021. Newer reds such as Progressive Red have taken its place.

4. Glut Orange (Solar Orange)

Audi TT, S3, and RS cars (2006)

This vivid pumpkin orange was originally called Glut Orange with the paint code LY2G. “Glut” is German for an orange glow, like embers. It was renamed Solar Orange in later years, and is the exact same hue with the same paint code. It’s a high-gloss solid paint with a 2K clear coat. Glut Orange seems to have been used first in 2006 until 2016, and as Solar Orange as recently as 2022. It’s no longer offered on modern Audis. It remains one of the rarest Audi colors. You can see it below on a 2012 Audi S4:

5. Imola Yellow

Audi S4 (2000)

Imola Yellow became synonymous with the sporty B5 Audi A4 models, debuting in 2000 on the S4 (below left), and also seen on the B5 RS4. It was later rolled out to more VW Group products until at least 2012, and was offered more recently as a special order color and on some special models, the latest of which was the Europe-only RS4 Avant Edition 25 Years (seen below right with the B5 RS4), which reintroduced the color in 2024 for this limited-production commemorative model. Modern-day Audis are still offered in yellow paint, notably the very extroverted Python Yellow.

View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article

6. Sepang Blue

Audi RS3, RS5, R8, and S6 (2008)

Another vibrant deep blue metallic used on sporty Audis that recalls shades of Nogaro Blue, only darker, Sepang Blue (color code LY5Q) appeared on quick Audis from 2008. It was moved from the regular palette to a custom-order color from around 2017, and has since been available as an Audi Exclusive special color. Like Imola Yellow, it’s named for a racing circuit, namely the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia. Here it is on a first-generation 2012 R8 Spyder:

7. Ara Blue

Audi R8 (2015)

Paint code LX5J, or Ara Blue, is no longer offered on new Audis, but it will forever be remembered as the launch color of the second-generation Audi R8 in 2015 (below). It continues a long tradition of sporty blue Audi paint colors, and later spread to other fast Audis, such as the S3 and RS3, and then on to more mainstream Audis from 2017. It was discontinued as an official color by 2023, and replaced with other blues, such as Navarra Blue and Turbo Blue. Its crystal effect gives it a more intense sparkle than regular metallic paints.

8. District Green

Debuted

District Green is a striking golden green hue with a subtle bronze metallic flake that shifts in varying light. It’s still quite a new color, having debuted in 2020 on the A5, and offered from the next year in more Audis, including the Q5. Below, you can see what it looks like on a 2026 Q5 Sportback. Its paint code is LX6M. It’s a sophisticated take on the traditional army green, and often seen in conjunction with black optics and blackout packages.

9. Merlin Purple

Audi RS6 Avant (2016)

A gorgeous deep purple, very akin to BMW’s Thundernight Metallic, but with a subtle blue undertone, like a plum or a blackberry, Merlin Purple looks spectacular on a rapid Audi like the 2021 RS6 Avant below. A special-order Audi Exclusive color, Merlin Purple is still available today on the most expensive Audis. It’s a dark and subdued color in low light, but pops into vibrant shades in direct sunlight, when you can see the golden metallic flakes in it.

10. Ipanema Brown Metallic

R8 Spyder and A5 Sportback (2010)

This dramatic warm metallic brown shows hints of orange and bronze, depending on the light, but is subdued in low light. It has the LY8Y/7V paint code and is an Audi Exclusive color, and therefore rare and special, most often seen on rapid Audis like the R8 and RS models.

Honorable Mentions

As much as we would have loved to, not all the colors could be included in the top 10, and you may hate us for not including the following ones, so we won’t fail to mention them:

• Goodwood Green Pearl
• Garnet Red
• Tango Red
• Nimbus Grey
• Daytona Grey
• Florett Silver
• Mercato Blue
• Riviera Blue
• Navarra Blue
• Java Green
• Kyalami Green
• Glacier White

Design Influence

Audi’s paint colors have had a lasting effect on the motoring industry, with Nardo Gray in particular credited for leading a revival in solid finishes and more muted hues, and leading to the understated Euro Gray look that some fans love. Nardo Gray is sometimes said to have a “wet putty” or “primer” appearance and forces the eye to notice the car’s lines, as you’re not being distracted by a metallic sparkle.

The color became an unexpected sensation on social media, leading brands like Hyundai and Porsche to introduce their own flat-shaded gray hues. According to some fans, Nardo Gray single-handedly led the charge to democratize solid finishes in executive cars, putting paid to the notion that premium has to mean maximum sparkle. It may be one of the most influential modern paint colors.

FAQs

Q: Where is the Audi paint code location?

A: A modern Audi’s paint code can usually be found in the trunk on a sticker, often in the spare wheel well or under the trunk liner.

Q: What is Audi’s most famous paint color?

A: Amid vivid shades like Imola Yellow and Nogaro Blue, it was Nardo Gray that turned into an unexpected sensation, and is now regarded as Audi’s landmark color, synonymous with Audi RS models and leading a revival in flat shades for executive cars.

Q: What is Audi’s most popular current Audi paint color?

A:PaintRef.com reports that Nardo Gray is Audi’s most popular current color, making up 8.75% of Audis.

Final Thoughts

Audi has had a long and storied history as an innovative brand, and the automaker’s paint colors tell the same story. Famous hues like Nogaro Blue and Imola Yellow may attract lots of attention, but it was the effect Nardo Gray had on the industry and on the revival of a seemingly unassuming hue that was not traditionally seen as an executive color that best demonstrates that Audi is still innovating, even in unexpected ways.