Markus Andrews

Hopefully, it isn’t a surprise to anyone, but oil is supposed to stay inside your car and not leak out. If it does escape, it’s a pain. An oil leak can cause your car to smoke and makes a mess of your engine compartment, as well as your driveway. The good news is that there’s a variety of products made just to stop leaks. They are fittingly called “stop leak additives.”

Choosing the Right Way to Stop a Leak
There are a lot of brands that all make a product meant to stop leaks. Every single one of them claims to be the best. The truth is that there is no universal best. There are some products that work better in some situations, and there are some that work better in other situations. The best way to get the most out of an additive is to choose the one that works best for the problem you are having.
Small Leaks Only
Here’s the thing with stop leak additives: they don’t work on big leaks. They also only work on certain types of materials. Leaks from cracks in metal, leaks from pressed-in fittings, and leaks from loose parts need to be fixed. No amount of liquid gunk you pour into your oil will magically weld a crack shut. If you see a few drops weeping from an old gasket, though, they are perfect.
Leak Location
Where the leak is coming from is probably the most important thing to know when choosing an additive. If you head over to Popular Mechanics, they have a quick guide for finding out what component on your engine is leaking. You don’t actually need to be perfectly accurate, just the general area is fine. A head-gasket leak has a different set of rules than a main seal when it comes to stop-leaks; it doesn’t matter the exact location of the hole.
Internal Leaks
External leaks are easy to notice. The oil will be on the outside, either coating your engine bay in slime or staining your garage. An internal leak, where oil is getting into the cylinders or cooling system, is much more subtle. Some oil stop-leaks can solve an internal leak, but usually, if you suspect oil is getting into internal components, you are looking at a visit to a mechanic or a few long nights under the hood.
Oil Being Burned
The biggest symptom of an internal oil leak is blue or dark gray smoke coming out of the exhaust. When oil gets into the cylinders, it burns and colors the escaping gases. Unfortunately, while it can sometimes just be a leaky gasket, it’s more likely that there is a mechanical seal that is not working correctly, and you need to open the motor up.
Oil in the Coolant
Oil in the coolant system, and much more noticeably coolant in the oil pan, is a bad head gasket symptom. If there is some cross-contamination and your car is belching out white smoke, stop driving the car. A stop leak will not help you if the coolant is getting into the cylinders.
Gas or Diesel
One final consideration is the type of fuel your car uses. Some additives won’t work with some fuels. Most of the time, additives are formulated for all engines, but there are a few special cases.
Alright, let’s get down to business. Here are our thoughts on 10 of the best stop leaks out there. Most are simple enough to use; just pour them into your oil reservoir at whatever ratio it says. Some are a bit more complicated, but all of them are good products.

Top 10 Best Oil Stop Leak Additives 2020
1. Best Overall Pick: Lucas Oil Stop Leak

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Why we like it: Lucas is a household name in automotive for a good reason: they make products that work.
Editor’s Rating:

Leaks Fixed
The Lucas is great for weeping gaskets. If you have a slow leak on the oil pan or around valve covers, it’s perfect. If it’s a big leak, don’t bother.
Any Compatibility Issues?
Many people seem to believe that Lucas Stop Leak won’t work with diesel engines, but Lucas says there’s no issue. What it may have an issue with is other additives; just make sure it’s the only thing that isn’t oil you put into your oil pan.
Verdict
Lucas Oil Stop Leak is more than just a gasket fix, and that’s why we call it the best. It quiets the engine down, reconditions oil, and unlike many additives, you don’t have to make sure to drain it out after a while. It’s safe for your engine, and only the BlueDevil stop leak rivals it in terms of total compatibility with petrol-based products. You can use it in any oil, with any engine, and feel ok. It also doesn’t cost much, per ounce, it’s one of the cheapest products on our list. So there’s that.
It’s not a miracle substance, though. For one thing, bigger leaks need filler. Lucas stop leak doesn’t have any filler in it. That makes it super safe, but makes something like the Bar’s Rear Seal stuff better for bigger problems.
There’s also this pervasive theory that you shouldn’t use it on a diesel engine. No one seems to be able to say why, but it does cause some people concern. It’s ok to get the BlueDevil instead if you can’t shake that feeling.

Pros
Improves engine performance in addition to stopping leaks
Very safe to use
Inexpensive

Cons
Not good for bigger leaks
Doesn’t play well with other additives

2. Honorable Mention: BlueDevil Oil Stop Leak

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Why we like it: BlueDevil is another highly trusted product that works great. It’s considered a safer product than the Lucas additive, but it doesn’t work as well on large gaskets.
Editor’s Rating:

Leaks Fixed
BlueDevil’s forte is pinhole leaks and tiny cracks. While weeping gaskets are better solved with the Lucas stop leak, BlueDevil is better at stopping a leak with visible drops. It’s a very long-lasting product, so the best leaks to fix are ones you don’t plan on addressing in the future. It’s still not magic, though, so don’t expect it to fix bigger issues.
Any Compatibility Issues?
No, like the Lucas, the BlueDevil contains nothing that can interact with normal engine operation. In fact, it doesn’t have the stigma of being incompatible with diesel motors. If that’s what turned you off from the Lucas, then this is a good alternative.
Verdict
There’s only one thing that prevents the BlueDevil stop leak from being #1, and that’s the price. It’s virtually identical in function to the Lucas product, but it costs a bit more. That being said, it’s still an excellent product. If you just like the blue bottle better, or don’t like Lucas, it’s going to get the job done, and you’ll be happy.
It does take a bit more time to use than other products if you do it by the book. Which let’s be clear, you should always read and follow instructions when it comes to adding things to your engine. BlueDevil suggests going through the process twice to make sure leaks are taken care of, which means it takes twice as long as others like Bar’s stop leak.

Pros
Works with all engines
Stops pinhole leaks
Long-lasting

Cons
Costs more than similar products
Takes a little longer to use than similar products

3. Best Premium Pick: Bar’s Leaks OS-1

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Why we like it: Bar’s stop leak is one of the best working sealer additives on the market.
Editor’s Rating:

Leaks Fixed
Any time a seal gets old, it has a chance of developing a leak. That’s because it dries out and shrinks a bit. Products like the Lucas get absorbed and work quickly to expand the seal, making it perfect for slow seeping leaks, and the BlueDevil works by expanding over time so that it can close off bigger holes. Bar’s does both, making it perfect for older engines that have a lot of leaking all over the place. It won’t fix a big crack, but it will allow you to finally clean your engine bay.
Any Compatibility Issues?
Bar’s doesn’t sell products that have compatibility issues; it’s something they are known for. You do pay for that peace of mind, though.
Verdict
If you are not sure what product to get, get this one. It costs more than the others, it comes in an intimidating bottle, and it has funny words printed on the box. Ignore all that. Bar’s Oil Seal has the best chance of working on small leaks. They also sell a product for bigger leaks, the Bar’s Rear Main Sealer, but that’s even more of an intimidating product to use. Stick with this. It’s easy to use, works for older motors, and won’t damage turbos. If it doesn’t work, save up for a replacement gasket.
Just be aware of two things. First, it doesn’t work as fast as the Lucas stop leak. You’ll need to wait for about 200 miles worth of driving time for it to really show good results. Second, it costs four times as much as the Lucas but isn’t really that much better. It’s more of a psychological thing; it costs more, and has really fancy words printed on it, so you’d think it was way higher quality. The truth is that it’s not that much different. We said it was the most likely to work, and we stand by that, but you might kick yourself if you found out later that the cheaper products would have worked just as good.

Pros
Works with any motor
One of the best working stop leaks on the market
Is good for older motors

Cons
Costs more than other products
Takes a while to activate and work

4. Best for Stopping Smoke: Liqui Moly 2020

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Why we like it: If your car is producing blue smoke, it’s burning oil. Liqui Moly is specially designed to make it stop.
Editor’s Rating:

Leaks Fixed
Liqui Moly is an excellent product for internal leaks. Bad seals on the inside of the motor lead to excess smoke and can cause you to fail inspection. If you see the telltale blue smoke rising from your exhaust, this product can save you a costly visit to a mechanic.
Any Compatibility Issues?
There is one, and it’s a bit of a weird one. Don’t use it on vehicles with a wet clutch that have a shared oil reservoir. If you don’t know what it means to have a wet clutch, you probably don’t have one. It’s rare. Many motorcycles have wet clutches, but the chances of the average driver encountering one are slim. We just have to say it.
Some websites also note that you shouldn’t use it with an automatic transmission: that’s not true. What you shouldn’t do is add it to your transmission. That’s true for most stop leaks unless they specifically say they are for automatic transmissions.
Verdict
Liqui Moly is German, and it fits right into the Mercedes and BMW precision engineering philosophy. It even looks like it belongs on a shelf at a BMW shop. More than anything else, the Motor Oil Saver is all about keeping the insides of your motor healthy. The Lucas improves motor function as a byproduct. It’s a gasket sealer first, and a stabilizer second. The Liqui Moly is all in on the stabilization and lubrication aspect.
It works fantastic if you are burning oil. It also works fantastic if you seem to be losing oil, but can’t see any leaks. It’s not as good at sealing gaskets, though, so if you see evidence of a leak on the outside of the motor, you are probably better off sticking with BlueDevil or Lucas.

Pros
Great at slowing or stopping engine oil consumption
Good for making your car run cleaner
Liqui Moly is a very high-quality brand

Cons
Some compatibility issues
Not as good at stopping external leaks as other products

5. Best Budget Pick: STP High Mileage Oil Treatment

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Why we like it: It costs so little it’s hard to care about the fact that it isn’t the best at stopping leaks.
Editor’s Rating:

Leaks Fixed
It will fix really minor leaks. If you have a dribble, get the BlueDevil, and if you have a lot of weeping, get the Lucas. But if you have an old car with mystery stains from oil that seems to have no origin, this stuff is probably all you need. It will help stop smoking too. Not like cigarettes, that’s a different journey, but high mileage engines sometimes leak a little oil into the cylinders. The STP will help manage that.
Any Compatibility Issues?
If you follow the directions, there are no issues. However, and this is important, if you add too much of the product and dilute the oil, you can risk damaging your engine. It’s a very thick product and can make your oil a little slimy if you use too much. That slime will clog channels and make the engine work harder.
Verdict
STP is a well-known oil product manufacturer, and unlike the band, they are still putting out great products. This high-mileage treatment is one of them. It’s for, as you probably guessed, high mileage motors. It’s also amazingly cheap, easily half the cost of any other additive on this list.
It works well if you use it to stop very slow leaks on older cars. Think of the STP treatment more like an oil thickener than something that will plug a hole. Imagine trying to pour molasses through a colander, and you’ll get it. The downside is that it’s not great for reconditioning seals, especially not compared to Bar’s Stop Leak. Granted, as we said, it’s much cheaper.
It’s also a little bit dangerous if you just use it willy-nilly. Unlike products like the Lucas that don’t dilute the oil, the STP treatment will eventually become concentrated and cause problems if you just keep adding it. Do an oil change more often, and you’ll be fine.

Pros
Good for high mileage engines
Inexpensive
Helps an older car stop smoking

Cons
Can dilute the oil if used improperly
Not as good at reconditioning seals as other products

6. Best Main Seal Repair Additive: Bar’s Leaks Concentrated Rear Main Seal Repair

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Why we like it: Bar’s Rear Main Seal Repair is great if you suspect a leaky main seal. It’s specially formulated for rubber seals and works quickly.
Editor’s Rating:

Leaks Fixed
The name suggests that it’s only for main seals, but it’s actually suitable for just about any gasket or seal. What it’s best for, and what sets it apart from everything else on the list, is medium-sized leaks. Since it is a relatively thick and heavy-duty concentrate, it can really get into cracks and issues and close them up.
Any Compatibility Issues?
There should not be any compatibility issues. As with the other Bar’s product we have, making it easy to use, worry-free products are tied to their brand identity.
Verdict
This is the one product to try after other products have failed. It can close larger holes than anything else on this list. There aren’t many downsides to it either; it’s just more hardcore than most people will need.
All stop leaks carry risks. Risks like clogging channels or causing a leak to worsen due to the type of damage a seal has suffered. This concentrate just has a greater risk of all that compared to everything else. It’s more likely to work, and also more likely to cause problems. That’s why we say to try it after something else fails. It’s probably your last chance to solve the problem before having to take off the part and change out the gasket.

Pros
Fixes larger leaks
Compatible with all engines
Works quick

Cons
Small risk of clogging oil channels
Will make improperly installed gaskets leak worse

7. Best Fast-Acting Leak Stopper: ATP AT-205

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Why we like it: The AT-205 is a simple, fast-acting product.
Editor’s Rating:

Leaks Fixed
This is another one of those general-purpose sealers. The “I’m not sure where the leak is coming from, but it’s slow enough not to cause a panic,” type of leak that you think could be a valve cover or could be a worn-out oil cooler line, but you don’t really care to find out which. The only thing that makes it different than the Lucas or similar products is that it’s formulated to be better on plastic parts. Your ‘90s-early 2000s import cars will be happier.
Any Compatibility Issues?
There is one issue to be aware of when looking at the ATP. If there’s gunk in your oil pan already, like some engine sludge or other contaminant, it may dislodge the gunk and clog things up. The chemical that makes it useful for restoring gaskets is also really good at dissolving particles like paint, so just be aware of that. Read the directions and use less than they recommend at first. If it fixes the problem using less, you have no problem and didn’t risk clogging your oil pump.
Verdict
ATP makes a good product. It’s not as good as the Lucas product, and it costs a little more per treatment. However, if you own a car with many plastic parts, you may find it’s more useful to have the ATP over anything else.
The thing with the ATP is that the chemicals that make it good for polymer seals can also make it bad for your car. If a gasket is rolled or improperly installed, it will do its job and make them swell. That will make the leak worse. It will also strip the paint off your car if you accidentally spill it, so don’t do that.

Pros
Works well on cars with a lot of plastic parts
Good for minor leaks
Works faster than similar products

Cons
There’s a chance it will make the leak worse if the gasket is damaged
Should only be used if you know the oil is clean

8. Best for Head Gaskets: BlueDevil Head Gasket Sealer

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Why we like it: It’s specially formulated for head gaskets. That means if it works, it can save thousands of dollars in repairs.
Editor’s Rating:

Leaks Fixed
There are few phrases that spark fear into the hearts of mechanics. At the top of the list are terms like rod-knock, lifter noise, and blown head gasket. It’s that last one BlueDevil is attempting to solve.
This is a product meant to stop coolant from getting into the cylinders. You don’t pour it into the oil pan. You pour it into your radiator. We chose to include it on a list of oil stop leaks because one, head gaskets can leak oil as well as coolant, and two, these kinds of problems are all connected to each other. Chances are if you have a bad gasket on the bottom end, you have a bad gasket on the top end too.
Any Compatibility Issues?
Tons. We hate to say it, but there are just a ton of compatibility issues anytime you deal with coolant. Since it’s pretty much impossible to know how a product will react with every single one of the hundreds of coolant and radiator types, the best thing to do is to drain and flush the coolant system before attempting to use this product. That’s a tall order, but it’s way better than clogging a tiny coolant vein. The good news is that BlueDevil makes everything you need to do it, and they all work with each other.
Verdict
The simple truth is that there’s no such thing as a perfect liquid head gasket fix. There are temporary solutions that work fine, and there are products that won’t work at all. Even products like the BlueDevil that work on some vehicles may not work on yours. What you are paying for is the chance that you will only have to buy a product that’s around $50 instead of paying a mechanic several thousand.
The earlier you can catch a problem, the better chance you have. If you notice excess smoke from your exhaust, first try a product like the BlueDevil oil stop leak. If the problem persists past 500 miles or so, then start diagnosing a blown head gasket. Don’t wait with head gaskets, and honestly, don’t put all your faith into a head gasket sealer. It will cost you a lot of money if you let the heads warp because you waited too long.

Pros
Can save you thousands of dollars
BlueDevil makes a full line of products to help you along the way that are all compatible with each other
Helps with leaks everywhere on a coolant system

Cons
It might not work for you depending on thousands of hard to predict variables
It takes a long time to do it right

9. Best Emergency Stop Leak Spray: Permatex Spray Sealant

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Why we like it: A different approach to the problem of leaks, the Permatex Spray Sealant lets you patch up small leaks from the outside.
Editor’s Rating:

Leaks Fixed
Any small leak that you can see from the outside. It doesn’t matter what liquid is leaking, and it doesn’t matter what material it’s leaking out of. The Permatex Spray just coats the area in a goo that hardens and creates a barrier.
Any Compatibility Issues?
None. Since you spray it on the outside of the leaking component, it doesn’t actually have any interactions with the inside of the motor.
Verdict
The Permatex is another product like the RTV that isn’t something you add to the oil, but it is a good thing to have in your tool kit if you are trying to fix a leak. Unlike the RTV, it’s incredibly simple to use. You clean the leaking area, shake the can, and spray the contents at the leak. It hardens into a new seal and dams the liquid inside.
It’s only a very quick fix, though. The hard barrier will be in the way of future repairs, and it will have to be chiseled off, which is a pain in the butt. Basically, use this stuff if you don’t have any other options. Like you are out on the trails and just need to keep it together for another 30 miles until you make it back to civilization or something.
It can be picky sometimes. You have to clean the area pretty well so the goo can stick to the surface. Even then, sometimes, conditions are wrong and it won’t form a good barrier. This just adds to the idea that it’s only a good thing to use if you don’t have any other options and nothing to lose by trying.

Pros
Great for an emergency fix
Works on a lot of different surfaces
Easy to use

Cons
Terrible for a long-term solution
Sometimes it just doesn’t work

10. Best for Big Leaks: Permatex Ultra Black

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Why we like it: Sometimes, a stop leak can’t fix the problem, and you have to get serious. That’s where an RTV sealer comes in.
Editor’s Rating:

Leaks Fixed
Unlike everything else on this list, RTV sealer is good at fixing big leaks. That’s because it’s not a product that fixes an old gasket. It’s a product that is used to create a brand-new gasket. Yes, that means it takes a ton of work, but if you are in a situation where you can’t get a new gasket, you don’t have much of a choice when the leaks get too big.
Any Compatibility Issues?
There aren’t really any compatibility issues. Permatex sells other sealers that are better for different applications, but since this article is all about oil leaks, we choose to feature the Ultra Black. The Ultra Black is all about oil resistance, and that’s everything you could want.
Verdict
Gasket makers are something everyone should have in their toolbox if they work on cars. There’s a lot of stupid reasons you’ll need it. Like if you are replacing a part and accidentally destroy the gasket, or you just need your beater to stop dripping oil on your driveway.
It just takes a lot of work to use it right. Unlike the spray sealer, RTV goop takes a ton of prep and is in no way a quick fix. You have to take the part off, clean it, scrape all old gasket residue off, apply the product, then bolt the part back on before the stuff dries. It’s messy, it’s in no way better than buying the right gasket, and if you have to take the part off again, you’ll be kicking yourself.

Pros
Can fix any oil leak eventually
Unlike most stop leaks, it’s actually a long-term solution
Makes a strong, durable seal

Cons
Takes a lot of time to use
Only a good replacement for a new gasket if you can’t get the new gasket

About Stopping Leaks
Most stop leaks are straightforward, but there are tips and tricks that everyone can use to make sure they get the most out of the product.
Understand the Limitations of Stop Leak Additives
We went over it before, but we’ll do it again. If you experience big leaks, broken components, and cracked lines, none of those can be fixed by adding something to your car. Spray sealers like the Permatex can work temporarily, but nothing will actually fix the problem until you repair the damaged part.
Beware of Diluting Your Oil
Oil additives are not motor oil and do not perform the same function. Even Lucas, who prides themselves on being great for motors, will be bad for your engine in sufficient quantities because it will dilute the oil. As a general rule, only use a product once per oil change. However, like BlueDevil, some products recommend using the product twice if the oil doesn’t stop leaking the first time.
That brings us to our most important piece of advice…
Read the Instructions
Read the instructions and follow them. It’s impossible to overstate the embarrassment you will feel if you bought a head gasket sealer meant to go into your coolant, and you put it into your oil.
Treat All Additives as Temporary
Even the BlueDevil and Liqui Moly that claim to be permanent are not. In truth, even a gasket maker like the RTV is not a permanent solution. You should always plan on eventually getting the correct gasket and installing it.
When a gasket or internal part wears out, it’s only going to get worse over time. A stop leak works by being absorbed into the area around the leak and then expanding. It can only work where it can be absorbed. That means there’s still a lot of the gasket that is not functioning correctly, and over time the same process that caused it to fail in the first place will happen again.
When it happens again, the likelihood of a stop leak working is significantly lower.
Prevention Is the Best Way to Stop Leaks
Keeping your oil clean will keep your internals from wearing down and leaking. That means keeping up on your scheduled maintenance and using the right oils. Heads usually fail due to heat, and lines can deteriorate if the vehicle sits unused. Basically, and bluntly, the most common reason that a car develops a leak is neglect.
FAQ
We see a lot of questions about stopping oil leaks being asked around the web, so here are some answers.
Are Stop Leak Additives Safe?
Yes. Old additives use chemicals that could cause clogs or corrode materials, but modern stop leaks are safe. You can read all about what modern stop leaks are made out of here if you’d like. In short, assuming you follow the directions, your car will be safe if you use these products.
Can You Use Oil Stop Leaks for Transmissions?
Sometimes you can. Some additives are perfectly safe for transmissions, like the AT-205 Re-Seal. Some are not, like the Liqui Moly. If you have a leaking transmission, though, it’s probably better to buy a product specially made for transmissions.
Can Different Stop Leaks Be Used Together?
In general, no. While it may not cause a problem immediately, it may dilute the oil and cause future problems. It is also not worth it; most of the time if a product doesn’t work, it’s because the leaking part has failed. It’s not because a different product would be more effective.
How Long Should You Wait Before Deciding a Stop Leak Didn’t Work?
If a product is going to work, it will work after driving 500 miles or so. It does vary product to product. For instance, the BlueDevil additive takes longer to activate than the ATP, but both should be at full strength by the 500-mile mark. If you still have a leak after 500 miles, you probably need to look for a new solution.
Stopping Leaks Keeps the Stains Away
No one likes to try to clean oil out of concrete, and no one likes to scrub oil out of an engine compartment. For the sake of sanity, grab some oil stop leak additive and keep the leaks at bay. You should also consider picking up an oil drain pan to protect your garage floor or driveway while you sort out your leak problems. Also, consider using laundry detergent to scrub oil stains out. It works great. More

The roof top tent first became popular with off-road adventurers in the Australian outback who’d protect themselves from venomous snakes and spiders crawling around the ground. And although our Aussie ‘mates’ from down under kick-started the craze, the innovative camping accessory is becoming increasingly popular in America for the convenience it affords.
Unlike conventional tents that sit firmly on the ground, roof top tents are mounted on the roof racks of your ride, which keeps you safe from perilous creatures, not to mention mud and snow. Should you opt for a super sturdy hard shell model, you’ll enjoy ample protection from the wind as well.
They may cost a tidy sum to purchase outright, but the hard shell roof top tent is a happy camper’s dream. In this buyer’s guide, we’re going to cover everything you need to know about their revolutionary design and round out the top 10 options on the market.

Choosing the Right Hard Shell Roof Top Tent
Before you start shopping for a hard shell roof top tent of your very own, it’s essential to factor in a few crucial considerations. Keep the following six points in mind to ensure you purchase the best possible product for your needs. If a hard shell isn’t a requirement, you can also see our full rundown of roof top tents here.
Capacity
Hard shell roof top tents typically cater to two to three campers, although three adults in the one tent is almost always a squeeze. Make sure you purchase a model with plenty of space to fit everyone in.
Type
Hard shell roof top tents come in two major types: wedge-style and pop-ups. Wedge-style tents take longer to erect but provide more space and weather protection, while pop-up tents are more convenient but smaller.
Weight
Your roof racks have weight limitations, so ensure your hard shell tent (and the campers within) won’t exceed these. You can always upgrade your roof racks to a sturdier, after-market option, but you’ll need to factor the additional expense into your budget.
Size
You need to buy a tent that’s appropriate for the size of your vehicle and your roof racks. If you’ve got your heart set on a particular product that doesn’t quite fit, you can remove your factory-standard roof racks and replace them with something bigger.
Storage
Some options allow extra storage on top of the hard shell, while others let you remove the tent entirely and use the shell for storage. If you need more storage space, then choose a product that affords extra room.
Aerodynamics
Attaching anything to the roof of your car creates drag, thus requiring more energy from your engine and reducing your miles per gallon. Hard shell roof top tents feature an aerodynamic design to mitigate the issue, although some are better than others.
Price
Compared to a regular tent, hard shell roof top tents will set you back a pretty penny. With prices ranging from $1,000 to $4,000, your budget will play a major role in the decision-making process.
Now that you have some idea of what to look for, here are our favorite hard shell roof top tents for 2020

Top 8 Best Hard Shell Roof Top Tents 2020

1. Best Overall Pick: TMB Hard Shell Pop-Up Roof Tent

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Why we like it: It’s an excellent all-round option and a superb introduction to roof top tent camping.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Capacity: Two
Type: Pop-Up
Weight: 200 lbs.
Size: 84 x 49 x 13 inches
Whether you’re new to the world of roof top camping or you just want a simple, well-rounded tent that works, this hard shell pop-up from TMB is hard to beat.
Coming in at around the $2k mark, it has outstanding value for weekend campers with modest needs. One of the things we love most about this model is just how quickly and easily it unfurls—pop-out the shell, and it’s ready to go in 30 seconds flat thanks to the shock assisted arms. Inside, you’ll find a smorgasbord of nifty features, some of which are often reserved for premium roof top tents: bungee nets, inner/outer zippers, side pouches, etc. The sturdy telescopic ladder makes you feel safe and stable when you’re climbing in and out of the thing.
It’ll fit most standard-sized roof racks, and at 200 lbs., the slender tent is a fair bit lighter than most. It’s relatively quiet, too, as you can barely hear the wind rattling the shell, even while hurtling at 70mph down the freeway. And if high school science 101 taught us anything, that means there’s not much wind resistance; therefore, little difference in fuel efficiency when driving with this tent mounted.
Granted, it won’t compete in terms of durability, weather resistance, or comfort with the high-end models. But if you’re a casual camper, you don’t need all that much, and the savings are well worth it. Also, while the included memory foam mattress isn’t terrible, it’s certainly not as luxuriously comfortable as some of our other options.

Pros

Moderately priced
Easy to set up and pack down
High-quality design
Low wind drag while driving
Great for casual campers

Cons

Doesn’t compete with high-end tents
The included mattress could be better

2. Best Premium Pick: iKamper SkyCamp 2.0

Why we like it: Oodles of extra space and a rigid, durable design make this tent one of the best wedge-style hard shells on the market.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Capacity: Two
Type: Wedge
Weight: 155 lbs.
Size: 54 x 86 x 13 inches
You’ll pay a pretty penny for the privilege, but the SkyCamp 2.0 is well worth the investment for keen campers after a spacious hard shell wedge-style tent. A sturdy base folds out the side of your vehicle to create a great big platform of 83 x 86 x 43 inches, enough to sleep three full-sized adults comfortably. Families are particularly enamored with this roomy option as you could easily squeeze in two adults and two pre-teen kids.
Aside from the size, iKamper has hit the nail on the head by producing a sturdy and durable tent built to withstand the elements. A thick FRP and polyester/canvas does a brilliant job of protecting campers from the wind and the rain, while its heavily insulated base gets them all cozy and snug during those frigid early mornings.
Given this high-end tent is quite a significant investment, you might rightfully feel worried about someone taking off with the thing. But you needn’t because iKamper includes a theft-proof lock with the design, which also safeguards the possessions within (worth it for the peace of mind alone).
You may find the previous model—the SkyCamp 1.0—cheaper online. But the downgrade isn’t worth it, in our opinion, as the 2.0 is significantly sturdier and more spacious. Furthermore, the new and improved latching mechanism makes set up and break down easier than ever before. Having said that, it does take a few minutes longer than your average pop-up style hard shell tent, but the extra effort is worth it for the abundance of space.

Pros

Large spacious design
Sleeps up to three adults (or two adults and two kids)
Sturdy build
Excellent weather resistance

Cons

Takes longer to assemble than a pop-up tent
Rather expensive

3. Best Budget Pick: DANCHEL OUTDOOR Rooftop Tent

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Why we like it: DANCHEL OUTDOOR offers excellent value for money with this durable pop-up tent.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Capacity: Three
Type: Pop-Up
Weight: 144.7 lbs.
Size: 82 x 51.5 x 14 inches
If you’re in love with the concept of a hard shell roof top tent—and you should be—but you don’t want to fork out for the TMB Beige Hard Shell Pop Up Roof Tent, then this model from DANCHEL OUTDOOR is an outstanding alternative at a far lower price point. It costs about 25% less than the aforementioned model, which equates to significant savings you can dedicate to other essential camping gear.
The first thing you should know about this tent is that it’s designed for cars (or the bed of a pick-up truck), meaning you don’t need a beefy SUV to support the frame. With a maximum load rating of 570 lbs., you can fit up to three relatively slender humans inside—perfect for a fun-filled road trip with your two BFFs. Fly screen-clad windows on every wall ensure it won’t get too hot and stuffy inside (just as well if you’re cramming three people in there).
The weather resistance is pretty decent for a roof top tent in this price range, although we do recommend looking elsewhere should you frequently brave harsh temperatures or heavy rain. The mattress could also be a little comfier, but that’s easy enough to fix by adding a layer of your own.
Another downside is that although relatively light, the weight of the tent will affect the center of gravity on smaller cars, so you’d best take it easy when maneuvering around tight corners.
All in all, however, it’s a fantastic little budget option that’s perfect for campers who get around in a car rather than an SUV.

Pros

Low-cost hard shell option
Designed for use with cars
Fits three people
Decent weather resistance

Cons

Notable effect on the center of gravity
Included mattress isn’t the best

4. Best for Summer: James Baroud Explorer

Why we like it: This breezy pop-up roof top tent is perfect for hot midsummer nights.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Capacity: Two
Type: Pop-Up
Weight: 200 lbs.
Size: 55 x 78 x 13.2 inches
If you plan to do most of your camping in the sweltering summer months, you need to snag yourself a tent that won’t have you dripping with sweat throughout the night. And ventilation is where the James Baroud Explorer excels with a breeze-inducing design and a solar-powered cooling system.
Unlike most roof top tents, the Explorer has two entrance points plus a whole host of windows made of lightweight mesh to bring in the breeze. Should it start raining at any point during the night, it’s super easy to lean out and unfurl the fly, which provides plenty of protection from light to heavy rain. The polyester walls are also adequately waterproof and have a breathable design to optimize air-flow. To top off the high-end ventilation system, a solar-powered fan cycles air through the tent to cool you down, running for up to 24 hours on a single charge.
Extra storage is another nifty plus, with plenty of nets inside to stow your gear. Furthermore, regardless of whether the tent is up or down, you can store up to 65 lbs. of equipment on the roof, which is best attached using tie-down straps.
As is typical for a pop-up tent, there isn’t a tremendous amount of space within. Two adults can lie comfortably side-by-side, but it’s a bit cramped should one be over six foot tall (the open dimensions are 55 x 78 x 40 inches).
The product is pretty pricey as far as hard shell tents go, but definitely worth considering for passionate summertime campers.

Pros

Plenty of breathable mesh
Solar-powered fan is suitable for hot weather
Good rain resistance
Storage space inside and on roof

Cons

A bit too tight for tall people
Expensive

5. Best Storage: TEPUI HyBox

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Why we like it: The TEPUI HyBox converts into extra storage space when you’re not camping in the wild.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Capacity: Two
Type: Pop-up
Weight: 177 lbs.
Size: 84 x 55 x 12.75 inches
Tent specialist TEPUI makes a variety of roof top options, and this two-person model is among their best.  The highly innovative design transforms the spacious tent into a useful cargo box—perfect for handymen who need somewhere to stash their tools. There is one rather unusual caveat to the design; however, the cargo box cannot be locked (don’t leave your best tools in there).
When you’re not using it for storage, the tent serves as a mighty fine place to sleep. Extra thick, reinforced insulation lines the interior to keep you cozy and reduce the rustling sound as the wind starts to pick up. Down below, honeycomb panels and a felt-lined aluminum frame give the tent a nice sturdy feel. What’s more, the 3000mm polyester material offers a high degree of waterproofing, so feel free to grab this model for your next trip to the Pacific Northwest.
The tent works well with most modern SUVs on the market, although you should double-check whether your roof racks are up for the job.

Pros

Serves as both storage and tent
Excellent waterproofing
Sturdy frame
Fits most SUVs and pick-ups

Cons

Storage area can’t be locked

6. Best for Rough Weather: Alu-Cab Expedition 3

Why we like it: This robust hard shell tent is built to withstand inclement weather.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Capacity: Two
Type: Wedge
Weight: 170 lbs.
Size: 90 x 55 inches
The South African-based brand Alu-Cab is responsible for this heavy-duty hard shell, which is seen on remote wildlife expeditions (hence the name) throughout the wild continent. Safari tour companies love it for the durable and sturdy design, which allows them to get heavy use out of the investment over a lengthy timeframe.
The ultra-durable design is thanks to the aluminum frame, which can withstand stacks of weight and won’t break anytime soon. Gas-pressure springs make packing it up and down a breeze, especially compared to some of the other wedge-style tents on the market.
On the floor, a heavily insulated closed-cell polyethylene foam help reduce condensation and regulate the indoor temperature. Layered on top is a super soft, high-density foam mattress that provides ample comfort for even the fussiest camper.
Storage is another definite plus (you need plenty on an African safari). Pockets inside the tents are great for stashing your stuff, and there’s room on the roof to tie-down extra gear.
The product does well in wet weather, with a strategic pointed design (the outer shell is wider than the tent) that forces rain to flow down to the ground rather than seeping through the fabric. What’s more, each seam has been individually waterproofed, so you won’t have to worry about waking up damp—no need to “curse the rains down in Africa” in this tent.
Of course, quality products are always going to cost more, and you may have to do quite a lot of camping in this one to justify the expense.

Pros

Sturdy and long-lasting
Easy to pack down and set up
Comfortable mattress
Good insulation
Does well in wet weather

7. Most Comfortable: Pittman Outdoors Comet

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Why we like it: This high-quality roof top tent from Pittman provides ample comfort at a competitive price.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Capacity: Two
Type: Pop-up
Weight: 172 pounds
Size: 84 x 51 x 14 inches
A growing name on the outdoor adventure scene, Pittman has developed a small but loyal contingent of fans by providing quality craftsmanship at a reasonable price.  The Comet is one such product, with a durable wind-resistant and waterproof design, it’s well equipped to withstand the rigors of Mother Nature. Included in the package is a heavy-duty telescopic ladder, which doesn’t feel the slightest bit flimsy when climbing up or down.
Inside, the insulated aluminum honeycomb base makes the frame feel sturdy and tort, while a non-deforming foam mattress means a good night’s sleep is all but guaranteed. The tent has been designed with longevity in mind; you can expect it to last for years (or decades) to come.
As you’d expect from a good hard shell roof top tent, the Comet is super easy to set up and pack away. After your first or second go, it should only take you a matter of minutes to get the process down pat.
All in all, it’s a respectable mid-range product that ticks all the boxes for casual campers and weekend warriors. If you’re a frequent or hardcore camper, however, then it might be worth investing a bit more in a premium product.

Pros

Sturdy base
Good water and wind resistance
Comfy non-deforming foam mattress

Cons

Not ideal for frequent campers

8. Best Removable Tent: Roost Explorer

Why we like it: You can take the entire tent out of the shell and use the space for storage instead.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Capacity: Three
Type: Wedge
Weight: 163 lbs.
Size: 90 x 57 x 13 inches
This well-made and ultra-comfy wedge-style roof top tent has one unique feature that sees it stand out from the rest: you can take the tent out and use the hard shell for storage.
The entire tent—including its two-inch foam mattress—is designed to quickly and easily slide out of the shell, affording you a roomy 90 x 57 x 13 inches of space to stow your stuff. Skis, snowboards, small surfboards, and a range of other long sporting goods and other items fit inside, which is super convenient if you’ve got minimal boot space.
Storage aside, the Roost Explorer is a good roof top tent that provides ample comfort in a variety of conditions. Three screen-mesh doors bring plenty of air-flow into the cabin, and its spacious design can accommodate up to three adults (it’s more comfortable with two, though). On the floor, a two-inch high-density foam mattress is suitable for shorter trips, but we’d recommend upgrading to the three-inch mattress ($100 extra) if you’re planning on spending a lot of time inside the thing—you can’t put a price on a good night’s sleep, after all.
It does a respectable job of withstanding the elements thanks to its 600 Denier Solution Dyed Polyester fabric, although it’s perhaps not quite as good as some of our premium recommendations. Gas-pressure struts allow the contraption to open with ease, and it firmly attaches to your roof racks via lockable rear latches to reduce road noise and optimize gas mileage.
Switch to the Roost Sportsman model if you’d rather have a masculine camouflage print.

Pros

You can use it as storage or a tent
Good air-flow
Spacious design
Minimal road noise and good MPG

Cons

Not as weather-resistant as other options

Hard Shell Roof Top Tent Buyer’s Guide
We won’t sugar coat it: hard shell roof top tents are a significant investment, so expect to spend thousands of dollars on your elevated campsite.
Considering you’ll be dropping such a substantial sum, it’s well worth learning everything you can about the product beforehand. That’s where this in-depth buyer’s guide comes in, with oodles of thoroughly researched information to help you wrap your head around the hard shell roof top tent.  Paired with other supplies like an electric cooler or warmer for your car, the place can really start to feel like home.
Hard Shell Roof Top Tents Versus Soft Shell Roof Top Tents
You may be wondering what the difference is between these two popular types. Here we’ll explain how they vary and outline the pros and cons of each.
Hard Shell Roof Top Tents
As the name suggests, hard shell roof top tents come wedged between a hard shell, typically made of aluminum or fiberglass. These rigid pieces serve to sandwich the squishy tent parts (bedding, walls, flooring, and all) together during storage to provide a sturdy protective barrier that safeguards them from harm.
One big advantage of the hard shell design is it creates a streamlined, aerodynamic shape that doesn’t cause excessive drag (wind resistance) as you drive. As a result, you’ll get more miles per gallon than a soft shell tent and save money every time you refuel. The aerodynamic design also provides a better center of gravity, which helps to improve the handling of your vehicle.
But for many campers, the major plus of the hard shell roof top tent is convenience. The unique design allows you to open the tent up quickly and effortlessly, leaving you more time to bask in the glory of the great outdoors.
Soft Shell Roof Top Tents
[Image: https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/camper-van-roof-top-tent-camping-1769231585 Alt-Text: A hard shell roof top tent on a camper van].
Soft shell roof top tents have two key advantages: space and price.
Unlike their hard shell counterparts, you can fold the flooring of a soft shell tent out over the left or right-hand side of the vehicle, effectively allowing you to double the space. For traveling families or anyone camping with a bigger group than two, that extra space is a must.
As soft shell tents don’t have the dual protective layer on the top and the bottom, they’re significantly cheaper to manufacture than hard shell models, and the savings are passed on to the consumer. Soft shell tents can cost hundreds, sometimes even thousands of dollars less than a similar-sized hard shell tent, making them ideal for budget-minded campers.
On the downside, soft shell tents are a bit of a pain to assemble. You’ll need to roll up and pack down vast swathes of fabric and install support beams to secure everything in place.
The Benefits of a Hard Shell Roof Top Tent
[Image: https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/drone-view-vehicle-top-tent-forest-1541223668 Alt-Text: A soft shell roof top tent on an SUV].
In case you’re still wondering what all the fuss is about, here are six key reasons why hard shell roof top tents are the ultimate camping accessory.
You’re up off the ground: Unlike a conventional tent, a roof top tent has you sleeping on top of your car and high above the ground. That way, you don’t need to worry about animals, rocks, insects, mud, or snow, and you’re less likely to track filth into your bed.
Easy to set up: Forget about unfurling a tent and hammering pegs into the ground; hard shell roof top tents are much easier to assemble than standard tents and even the soft shell variety. All you have to do is lift up the struts and attach the ladder.
Plenty of air-flow: As roof top tents are elevated off the ground, the breeze will circulate through the cabin to keep you comfortable and cool. Should it start blowing a gale, you can shelter yourself by closing the fly.
Durable design: A rugged design means hard shell roof top tents are built to last and able to withstand adverse weather conditions. Although you’ll spend a fair chunk of cash up front, you can expect your purchase to last for many years to come.
Comfort: Hard shell roof top tents come with a comfy thick mattress that have plenty of padding for a good night’s sleep. Rigid materials provide extra insulation to regulate temperature and hold up well in heavy winds, resulting in less noisy rustling at night.
Storage: Many hard shell roof top tents allow you to add storage containers on top, which you don’t need to move around when you pop up the tent. Some even allow you to remove the tent entirely and use the hard shell as dedicated storage.
The Disadvantages of a Hard Shell Roof Top Tent
Every camping setup has pros and cons, so it’s worth pointing out a few of the disadvantages of the hard shell roof top tent.
Price: The hard shell roof top tents we recommend on our list range from $1,200 to $4,000, a sizable sum compared to conventional ground-based tents. Roof top hard shells are substantially more expensive than soft shell tents as well.
Bathroom access: Climbing out of a roof top tent—whether hard shell or soft shell—in the middle of the night to pee is a bit of a chore. It’s also a little bit laborious to lug all the stuff you need for the evening up and down the ladder.
Space: Even the biggest hard shell roof top tents aren’t as spacious as the fold-out soft shell options. And when you compare them to conventional tents, RVs, and trailers, roof top tents are downright tiny.
Weight limitations: You can only safely support so much weight on your roof and racks. Depending on your vehicle, roof top camping might not be viable at all. Remember to factor in the weight of the tent and its contents when doing the math.
The Different Types of Hard Shell Roof Top Tents
Hard shell roof top tents come in two unique styles—pop-up and wedge—each with distinct pros and cons.
Wedge-Style Hard Shell Roof Top Tents
Wedge-style tents have a hinge on the front of the vehicle where you’ll rest your feet, and a crank on the back that lifts the tent vertically to give you plenty of headroom. As the crank is less complex than the rising mechanism of a pop-up, it takes up less room and leaves the camper with more square inches of floor space. However, because the front end around your feet isn’t raised, wedge-style tents can feel a little more cramped.
A big advantage of the wedge-style design is its triangular shape works well in inclement weather.  Rain and snow slide down the roof rather than accumulating on the top, and its aerodynamic shape fares better in heavy winds.
Pop-Up Style Hard Shell Roof Top Tents
As you probably guessed from the name, pop-up tents can be quickly erected in a vertical motion, a simple process achieved by unhitching the gas-pressure struts. The result is a box-shaped tent with an evenly leveled roof across the entire area, which creates a feeling of extra space. Although they feel roomier due to the high ceiling, it’s crucial to note wedge-style tents tend to have more square inches of floor space.
Pop-ups are super simple to set up, but their rigid, box-like profile aren’t as effective at deflecting the wind and the rain.
Setting Up and Packing Down a Hard Shell Roof Top Tent
Convenience is the core advantage of opting for a hard shell roof top tent, and there’s no denying the innovative design is incredibly easy to set up and pack down.
The process varies a bit between types and models, but the core steps are mainly the same:
Crank up or unhinge the automatic pop-up feature to allow the tent to rise
Attach all the relevant fasteners and cords to secure the tent in place
Put the ladder in at the doorway and clip it in
To pack down a hard shell pop up tent, simply do the same process in reverse.
Setting up and packing down a hard shell roof top tent generally takes 1-2 minutes, making it the quickest and easiest form of tent camping on the market. Compare that to soft shell roof top tents, which take up to 8 minutes to set up or pack down, depending on the model and the complexity of its vestibules.
If you’re wondering whether the extra 5-6 minutes you save using a hard shell is worth it, for us—and for thousands of other happy campers out there—it certainly is. The ability to erect your accommodation in almost an instant is a massive luxury on the road, and the uber-fast process is especially handy when it’s dark or rainy outside. Considering most of the time, you’ll have to set up and pack down your tent on the same day; the added convenience goes a long way.
Maintaining a Hard Shell Roof Top Tent
Given they’re such a substantial investment, it makes financial sense to take the time to care for your hard shell roof top tent properly. Keep the following maintenance tips in mind to ensure your tent lasts the test of time.
Dry it out: Mold can wreak havoc on a roof top tent, just as it does on ground-based models. After a wet camping trip, erect your tent and let it thoroughly dry out in the sun. It’s okay to pack down your tent while it’s wet, but don’t allow it to sit there and soak for too long.
Keep it clean: A tough hard bristled brush and/or vacuum cleaner will do to get the dirt, bugs, and organic matter out of your tent. If you want to give it a deep clean, try using soapy water and a sponge (remember to let it dry off properly).
Oil the hinges: Rain and dew will cause the hinges and cranking mechanism to rust over time. Offset the issue by oiling them regularly with an appropriate silicone lubricant.
Waterproof the material: Although the material used to construct a hard shell roof top tent has already been waterproofed, it may lose its non-porous properties over time. Periodically applying a coat of waterproofing spray will keep the rain at bay for years to come.
Scrape the snow off the roof: The bottom section of a roof top tent is designed to support an enormous amount of weight. But the roof? Not so much. If it’s been snowing heavily, scrape the snow off the top to avoid overburdening it.
Hard Shell Roof Top Tent FAQs
If you’ve read this far and still have questions about the hard shell roof top tent, there’s a good chance you’ll find answers below.
What is the Best Hard Shell Roof Top Tent?
The best hard shell roof top tent is subjective; it ultimately depends on your personal camping preference and budget. In our guide, we rate the best budget, premium, and overall product to help you identify the best option for you.
What is the Biggest Hard Shell Roof Top Tent?
The biggest hard shell roof top tend that we recommend is the iKamper SkyCamp 2.0, which comes in at a roomy 83 x 86 x 43 inches when open. If you need more space than that, consider opting for a soft shell option instead, which can fold out to create stacks of extra space.
Why are Hard Shell Roof Top Tents so Expensive?
Hard shell roof top tents are built from high-grade materials designed to withstand the elements, and the fact they must pack down into an aerodynamic shell adds significantly to the cost (the gas-pressure struts alone are super high-tech). Furthermore, the product is still fairly niche, which means there aren’t all that many manufacturers competing on price.
Is a Hard Shell Roof Top Tent Worth it?
We certainly think so. Hard shell roof top tents let you set up camp in mere minutes, a godsend when you’re exhausted after a long drive or it’s raining outside. The process is so simple you can even do it in the pitch dark.
We also love being able to camp up off the ground; no more worrying about rocks or mud.
How Many People Can a Hard Shell Roof Top Tent Fit?
Most hard shell roof top tents are designed to comfortably accommodate two campers, or three with a bit of a squeeze. Some models can fit more in, although you’ll need a larger-than-normal vehicle to support the size and weight.
Can I Use a Hard Shell Roof Top Tent on My Car?
Hard shell roof top tents are commonly found on SUVs, although it is possible to use some models on smaller cars as well. It’s worth checking how much weight your car roof can support with the manufacturer. You’ll also need roof racks that are designed to hold the relevant weight, which may mean swapping out your current ones for an after-market model.
What Sort of Weather Can a Hard Shell Roof Top Tent Withstand?
Their durable design makes hard shell roof top tents among the sturdiest tent types on the market, meaning they hold up well in inclement weather—thick materials and a robust structure will protect you from heavy rain, wind, and snow. You should feel snug and comfortable inside your tent in anything short of gale-force winds, especially if you’ve got a wedge-style tent, which are exceptionally weather-resistant.
Hard Shell Roof Top Tents: The Ultimate Camping Accessory
Now that you’re up to speed on everything there is to know about the world of roof top camping, it’s time to pick out the appropriate hard shell model for your needs.
Carefully sift through the things to consider to determine your individual needs, then work your way through our top eight recommendations to find the ideal option for you.
Once you’ve installed a hard shell roof top tent on your ride, all that’s left to do is hit the road and start making the most of America’s epic natural splendor. Happy camping, folks. More

Transmissions are vital components in modern automobiles and trucks; they convert raw engine power into mobility by utilizing gears and pinions. Sometimes, mechanical issues arise through normal wear and tear and the daily use of your vehicle. When this happens, one product to consider would be a transmission additive as an inexpensive alternative to taking your car to a mechanic for costly repairs.
Before you read any further, if your transmission fluid is over 30,000 miles old, you should always change it first to see if that fixes the problem. You can check out our guide on the Best Transmission Fluids to better understand what transmission fluid is right for you and your vehicle.
Readers who own a 2014 or newer Ford or GM vehicle running Mercon-ULV/Dexron-ULV ATF are advised not to use additives in your transmission. The current Ultra-Low-Viscosity (ULV) ATF is a very smooth oil specifically engineered not to be altered, and doing so may cause irreversible damage to your vehicle.

Why Should You Buy a Transmission Additive?
There are three reasons why you may consider using a transmission additive: leaks, transmission noise or lack of performance, and preventative maintenance.
Stop Leaks
First and foremost, leaks from rubber seals or solenoids are among the most common gearbox problems. The rubber parts inside your transmission can be restored and repaired by adding an ester-based transmission additive.
Repair and Rejuvenation
Secondly, transmission additives can repair and clean the internal components damaged through normal wear and tear. Irregular shifts, increased noise, or grinding from within the gearbox can indicate damage to internal parts. These formulations are known as revitalizers or rejuvenators.
Maintenance and Performance
And finally, we have scheduled routine maintenance. Some additives happen to help maintain your transmission by cleaning and improving your transmission fluid’s overall quality. These additives are similar to an octane booster, where the normal fluid inside your car gets an upgrade to enhance performance to clean the junk out of the affected system.
Transmission Type
While the different types of transmission additives are the key to choosing the right product for you, you’ll also which kind of transmission your vehicle has. There are three main types of transmissions widely available today: automatic, manual, and continuously variable transmissions (CVT), and you need to make sure you purchase an additive that matches your transmission.
Some transmission issues and failures require a professional to dive deeper into the gears and grease. An additive can be useful in many situations. They remedy annoyances such as slipping gears, small leaks, minor grinding, or unsmooth shifts.
For the most part, additives are a useful alternative to save time and money by delaying potentially more expensive repairs, so read on to see our recommendations for the best transmission additive available no matter what you’re looking for.

Top 10 Best Transmission Additives 2020

1. Best Overall Transmission Additive: zMAX 51-306 Transmission Formula

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Why we like it: The 51-306 is an almost universal transmission additive that lubricates, stops leaks, improves shifting, and reduces harmful buildup, extending the life of your transmission.
Editor’s Rating:

Compatibility: Automatic & Manual
zMax is an American lubricant manufacturer that has been around for over 80 years. The Federal Aviation Administration approved their original Linkite formula as the first pure-lubricant for piston-engine aircraft. They have since expanded to other lubricant formulations.
The zMax 51-306 reduces gear wear, improves shifting, and keeps seals supple. It does this due to its proprietary formulation of white mineral oil and ester. Unlike the Liqui-Moly 20040’s subtle approach to packaging, zMax goes full Hollywood and tries to catch the eyes of the consumer with its bright pink liquid in a conical flask.
The zMax 51-306 formulation is very potent, so much so that it removes internal varnish from heat buildup and previous transmission fluid. Be sure to wear gloves and eye protection when handling this specific additive as it is highly dangerous as a consumer product.
Almost every passenger vehicle can use the 51-306 as a preventative maintenance measure. This includes cars and trucks with both manual transmissions and automatic transmissions. Unfortunately, it will not work on vehicles with either a CVT or sealed transmission.
As a transmission additive, the 51-306 has it all. It is nearly universal, has a highly reputable company producing it, and even has an appealing aesthetic, but is it the best transmission additive today? Yes.
Assuming you do not have a CVT transmission or a sealed transmission, the 51-306 should be your choice to maintain and repair a well-used tranny is priced very competitively, is made in America by an American company, and has history and results to back up their claims.  Those who do have a CVT should check out Hot Shot’s Secret Shift Restore.

Pros

Nearly universal
Low price
American owned and manufactured
Cool pink formula

Cons

Doesn’t work on CVT or sealed transmissions
Very dangerous to handle without PPE

2. Best Premium Transmission Additive: Hot Shot’s Secret Shift Restore

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Why we like it: Hot Shot’s Secret Shift Restore is an outstanding product backed up by years of testing and R&D. It works both as a preventative maintenance measure as well as a repair/restore compound.
Editor’s Rating:

Compatibility: Automatic & CVT
Hot Shot’s Secret is an American automotive lubricant company based out of Mt. Gilead, Ohio. They have been manufacturing Shift Restore since 2005, and it has gone through several iterations. This product was previously sold as “Transmission Stiction Eliminator.”
HSS Shift Restore is designed to restore your automatic transmission to its original performance. The polar ester in the formula works to dissolve varnish and eliminate stiction inside the transmission. Shift Restore makes your transmission cooler, less noisy, and improves the shifting performance.
It is engineered to be used in any automatic transmission, including CVT transmissions. Unfortunately, Shift Restore does not work in manual transmissions; otherwise, this would most likely be our best overall additive. Changing your ATF before trying Shift Restore is the most optimal approach. The manufacturer recommends that you mix this at 7% per volume or 2.4 ounces per quart.
Most vehicles will get two services from one bottle of Shift Restore, thanks to the 32-ounce bottle that it comes in. The additional product comes at an extra cost. Shift Restore costs roughly double what most competitors do, such as the Lucas Transmission Fix. Despite the price, this is still a good option for those looking to perform scheduled preventative maintenance or repairs.
We would recommend Hot Shot’s Secret Shift Restore to those who have older vehicles with an automatic transmission that just isn’t running the way it used to. It is a dependable additive for those who have two cars or who drive long distances consistently.
Hot Shot’s Secret had an independent test performed on a 2006 Saab with just over 120,000 miles on it to see what exact impacts Shift Restore had on overall performance. The results are quite shocking. The independent researchers discovered approximately a 15% increase in both horsepower and torque that had previously been lost due to transmission degradation. If you would like to read the full report, click here.
Overall, HSS Shift Restore is an exciting product with hard scientific evidence backing up its claims. It can take a few hundred miles to see improvements, but you can feel the difference once the formula starts working.

Pros

Scientifically backed product
Made in America
Dissolves varnish & eliminates stiction
Automatic transmissions & CVT

Cons

Expensive
Oversized bottle

3. Best Performance Transmission Additive: ATP Automotive AT-203 ATF Friction Modifier

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Why we like it: The AT-203 is an ATF additive that improves the overall performance of lesser-grade or used ATFs by converting existing conventional oil to a high viscosity synthetic.
Editor’s Rating:

Compatibility: Automatic
ATP Automotive is an American company that manufactures and specializes in aftermarket automatic transmission parts and oils and has done so since 1955. ATP Automotive’s history and longevity show that high-quality products often develop when a company specializes in a specific industry sector, and the AT-203 is no exception.
The AT-203 has a unique approach to maintaining and repairing transmission seals.
Some mechanics and repair shops will use a ten-ounce bottle of AT-203 to upgrade up to 8 liters of new, less-expensive ATFs to meet or exceed the performance of expensive synthetic OEM ATFs. This is the most common use for it. However, you can also use the additive on your vehicle’s existing ATF while procrastinating a transmission flush and fill.
AT-203 is compatible with most automatic transmission fluids, including Dexron, Mercon, ATF +3, and ATF +4, Z1, T, Diamond, and Nissanmatic. Most vehicles made in Japan or the United States can take advantage of this product.
Unlike other additives, the AT-203 is a way to upgrade your existing ATF by increasing the viscosity and supplementing conventional oil into a synthetic blend. It works because of the plasticizer, Diethylene Glycol Monoethyl Ether. AT-203 effectively repairs existing rubber and EPDM-type seals found in a wide variety of vehicle transmissions.
In general, we recommend AT-203 as a cost-saving measure in contrast to expensive OEM ATFs. It will repair existing rubber seals in your transmission. This additive should be recognized as a way to increase performance while also not breaking the bank.

Pros

American made
Works on most American & Japanese vehicles
Applications outside of passenger vehicles

Cons

Automatic transmissions only

4. Best Budget Transmission Additive: Lucas LUC10009 Transmission Fix

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Why we like it: Lucas Transmission Fix is one of the most popular transmission additives on the market today. Its price, universality and consistent quality make it a highly recommended choice for budget-conscious shoppers.
Editor’s Rating:

Compatibility: Automatic & Manual
Lucas has been a monster in American motoring and sports culture since its inception in 1989. The company has sponsored many racing teams and drivers and is most famous for its sponsorship of the Indianapolis Colts and the Lucas Oil Stadium.
In bold red letters, we see the words “Stops Slip” on the white bottle’s front. Lucas Oil designed this product for automatic transmissions that slip out of gear, experience hard shifts, or hesitate to engage gears. This additive contains friction modifiers that can improve performance inside a transmission. LUC10009 creates a polymeric film on the transmission bands to reduce slipping.
The Lucas Transmission Fix is a universal transmission additive (does not work in CVT transmissions) that even the most inexperienced car-owner can use. The additive can be added directly to the gearbox without requiring you to flush out the existing fluid.
An almost universal product is bound to have some downsides, and there is one major complaint. When it comes to seals and leaks, this product is sometimes hit or miss. The more severe the leak, the less likely the LUC100009 is going to fix it.
For more severe leaks, we recommend Liqui Moly 20040
For the most part, Lucas provides an excellent option for routine automotive maintenance at a low price. Because Lucas does not use a solvent as the main ingredient in their formulation, it is improbable that any adverse effects will come from using this product.
LCU100009 is one of the most inexpensive options if you are struggling with gear slippage and irregular shifts. We recommend the use of this product not as a stop leak, but as a stop slip.

Pros

Inexpensive
American made/American owned
Stops slipping gears/hard shifting
Near universal application

Cons

Stop leak is subpar
Doesn’t work on CVT

5. Best Leak Sealing Transmission Additive: Liqui Moly 20040 ATF Additive

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Why we like it: The Liqui Moly 20040 is a premium-grade ATF additive primarily used to prevent oil loss, revitalize seals and protect your transmission from dangerous build-up and grime.
Editor’s Rating:

Compatibility: Automatic
Liqui Moly has a long history of making high-quality lubricants and additives in racing, aviation, and military applications. While the product may not come in aesthetically pleasing packaging, the German engineering ethos of function over fashion is evident. The Liqui Moly 20040 is the newest addition to their long line of exquisite, high-quality products.
The LM 20040 additive is designed explicitly for Dexron II and Dexron III ATF and is recommended for older American-made vehicles running conventional transmission fluid. This ATF additive will improve shifting operation, dampen shifting noise, and protect against wear. LM 20040 is one of the best options to keep a smoothly operating vehicle running well into the future. With the 20040 ATF additive, Liqui Moly offers precisely what consumers need to maintain their transmission with minimal effort.
This product does a fantastic job of sealing leaks and rejuvenating seals in your transmission thanks to its very high viscosity level of 0.888g/ml. It bonds with the existing ATF to pass through all the nooks and crannies inside a modern transmission. Thanks to that high viscosity level, the additive helps certain materials reconstitute, closing leaks, and saving seals.
Overall, Liqui Moly markets a reliable option for those looking to stay up to date on transmission maintenance. While it may be slightly more expensive per ounce than other options, this additive is worth every penny if your vehicle’s transmission is compatible with it.

Pros

Ease of use
Great price
High-quality German-engineered product

Cons

Limited compatibility
Automatic transmissions only

6. Best Transmission Additive for Preventative Maintenance: Prolong Super Lubricants PSL15000

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Why we like it: Prolong Super Lubricants has released a high-quality damage prevention additive designed to clean and maintain a well cared for transmission.
Editor’s Rating:

Compatibility: Automatic & Manual
Prolong Super Lubricants is a California-based subsidiary of the Golden West Lubricants conglomeration. They have been making their product since the early 1990s and have had success in American auto racing in IndyCar, NASCAR, NHRA, and IMSA. Their reputation as a high-performance lubricant manufacturer has recently improved due to the success of this additive and Prolong’s secret Anti-Friction Metal Treatment.
The PSL15000 transmission additive is similar to Hot Shot’s Secret Restore in the way it eliminates stiction. The main difference is that this product actively protects the metal inside your transmission by depolarizing the ATF and creating a protective film on your parts.
This additive is an ideal choice for strictly preventative maintenance. One of the downsides of this product is that because it is doing something that is less observable, it is harder to determine the efficacy of using PSL15000. Other products are trying to stop leaks or eliminate pre-existing problems, and these are easier to determine whether or not it works.
Overall, we think that Prolong has put out a reliable product; however, it is essential to remember what each additive does and to not confuse them with each other. This product is highly recommended for owners looking to go the extra mile for planned preventative maintenance.

Pros

Great for preventative maintenance
American owned & operated
Automatic & manual transmission

Cons

Small container (8oz.)
Hard to determine efficacy

7. Best Pre-Fill Transmission Additive: Sea Foam TT16 Trans Tune

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Why we like it: A Jack-of-all-trades approach to a stop leak/transmission additive is unique in the automotive lubricant market.
Editor’s Rating:

Compatibility: Automatic & Power Steering/Hydraulics
Founded in 1942, Sea Foam is an American company known for its automotive additives and marine lubricants. Their Sea Foam Motor Treatment is one of the best-selling automotive additives in North America. If you frequent race tracks or other car-enthusiast events, you may be familiar with their old-fashioned red and white “fairgrounds” branding.
The Sea Foam TT16 Trans Tune is an odd product that helps condition ATF and treats existing ATF. It is also one of the few products that serve as a pre-fill cleaner. A pre-fill cleaner is a product you use after you drain the old ATF. After that liquid has been removed, you put TT16 in and let it do its magic while the transmission is basically empty. It does a great job removing varnish while eliminating stiction. As a cherry on top, the TT16 Trans Tune can also stop leaks in power steering and hydraulic systems.
But there’s one glaring problem with this product. It eliminates the inconvenience of buying four different products, but at the same time doesn’t outperform any of its competitors.
One other factor directly related to this “jack-of-all-trades” approach Sea Foam is going for is that the bottle is only 16 ounces. That means that even if you want to buy it for several of the listed applications, you would probably need to purchase several bottles, and at that point, why not just buy the right products the first time?
For example, if you are looking for an additive to condition conventional ATF, the ATP Friction Modifier is the better choice, both on overall price and effectiveness.
However, TT16 is not without merits. It is relatively inexpensive and does satisfy the desire for a “one-size-fits-all” approach to automotive lubricants. If you are unsure about what product you need, Sea Foam’s Trans Fix will probably help.
Overall, Sea Form TT16’s best use is as a pre-fill cleaner. It does a fantastic job of cleaning out all the excess gunk and garbage inside your transmission. While it doesn’t compare with some of the more premium brands, it still does a reasonably good job, especially at this price point.

Pros

Jack-of-all-trades automotive lubricant
American company
Best pre-fill cleaner
Cheap
Also a power steering/hydraulic lubricant.

Cons

Small container (16oz.)
Outclassed by better, more specific products

8. Best Transmission Additive for Rubber Seals: Hapco Pro-Seal

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Why we like it: Hapco offers the most comprehensive stop-leak related to rubber seals. Its near-universal application sets it apart from system-specific products.
Editor’s Rating:

Compatibility: All Transmissions
Founded in Detroit in 1960, Hapco started selling vinyl and upholstery cleaners to local gas stations in Michigan. Since then, they have added to their line-up. Pro-Seal has been their best seller ever since its inception. The company has expanded, and its products are now available worldwide.
The Hapco Pro-Seal treats rubber seal related leaks in transmissions and engines, differentials, power steering, and hydraulic systems. Pro-Seal is formulated to restore old rubber seals by improving their flexibility and elasticity while also increasing the seals’ tensile strength. It does this thanks to its ester-based formulation that does not include dangerous petroleum solvents like some lesser brands.
One important thing to note is that Hapco’s Pro-Seal does not claim to fix anything other than leaks relating to rubber seals. If you are having rough shifts or slipping gears, use an additive such as the zMax 51-306 instead.
We would recommend the Hapco Pro-Seal to customers who don’t mind spending a little bit more money for a universal stop leak. The fact that it can be used on so many different parts extends this product’s usefulness substantially.
Pro-Seal comes in a small 8-ounce bottle and is usually enough for a single treatment since the formula is so highly concentrated. Hapco recommends using 1 ounce per quart of oil in your transmission. Some smaller cars will not need the entire bottle. Make sure to check your owners manual to see how much transmission fluid your vehicle needs.
Overall, Hapco’s Pro-Seal is one of the better universal stop-leaks. It makes a noticeable difference in the rubber transmission seals’ texture and elasticity and leaves you extra fluid for the next leak. Unfortunately, you also pay for that excess fluid, so the overall cost per application is similar to most other products. We recommend picking up a bottle even if it just sits on your shelf, waiting for the day you need to plug up a rubber-based leak.

Pros

Plasticizer without solvents
Universal rubber seal leak fix
Made in America
Stops leaks & rejuvenates seals

Cons

Pricey
Stop leak only

9. Best Gel Transmission Additive: XADO Atomic Metal Conditioner Maximum (Manual or Automatic)

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Why we like it: XADO shows the rest of the world what the future of transmission additives could be, moving away from liquid-based formulas and towards gel-based lubricants and repair products.
Editor’s Rating:

Compatibility: Automatic or Manual
Xado Chemicals is a Ukrainian company founded after the dissolution of the U.S.S.R., where they have manufactured and marketed many automotive lubricants and additives. They are a primary sponsor of the European soccer club Shakhtar Donetsk. It is also the largest anti-friction lubricant manufacturer globally, holding approximately 24% of the worldwide market share. XADO’s reach is mainly due to its expansion into China and the European Union.
Xado’s Atomic Metal Conditioner is a metal revitalizer. What the Hapco Pro-Seal is for rubber seals, Xado’s entry is for metal. This super condensed formula is added directly to your transmission fluid and starts revitalizing the metal components inside. One syringe treats up to 10 liters of transmission fluid and needs to be reapplied every 60,000 miles.
If your transmission doesn’t feel the same as it used to but isn’t leaking, this product might be right for you. If you notice irregular shifting, grinding, or excessive noise even after a full ATF flush, then the Atomic Metal Conditioner will be the right choice. The formula restores metal finishes, eliminating surface defects by filling in the missing metal at an atomic level by combining it into the existing material.
Xado’s Atomic Metal Conditioner has been proven to increase viscosity by up to 200%. It is even more impressive when you consider that you only need 30mL to restore the metal inside your transmission. The restorative nature of the product is consistent between both the manual and automatic transmission additives.
If the price were more in line with its competitors, it would probably be a more popular option. Sadly, this is essentially a more expensive version of the Liqui Moly 20040. Despite the hefty price tag, the impressive performance of XADO’s gel-based additive is unmatched.
This product is a clear indicator of where this market is going in the future. Transmission additives are moving away from the solvent and ester-based liquid formulations and towards a condensed, highly compact gel that is easily handled and applied with minimal hassle.

Pros

Ultra-condensed formula
Available for manual or automatic transmissions
Repairs damaged metal
Future of transmission additives

Cons

Very expensive
Imported

10. Best CVT Transmission Additive: Bar’s Leaks 1414 CVT Transmission FIX

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Why we like it: Bar’s Leaks offers one of the only CVT-specific transmission additives on the market. At the very least, this can delay expensive repairs for a fraction of the cost.
Editor’s Rating:

Compatibility: CVT
Bar’s Leaks is a Detroit-based company founded in 1947 and is still manufacturing and focusing on a single-product market, stop-leaks. They produce many different additives for transmissions, power steering units, and cooling systems. They have a solid reputation for providing quick fixes to significant annoyances or inconveniences.
Bar’s Leaks 1414 CVT Transmission FIX is designed to stop leaks and revitalize seals and should be seen as a procrastination tool rather than a repair. It lubricates and plasticizes some of the CVT-specific belts with the intention to postpone expensive maintenance. Unfortunately, CVTs are more fragile, and thus, additive driven fixes are usually only a temporary relief.
This additive is not intended for preventative maintenance but rather a stop-gap measure between discovering an issue and replacing your transmission. You may get a few weeks or even a few months of added time, depending on your CVT’s overall condition and the extent of the leaks or damage. We only recommend this product for those who cannot afford a significant car repair and need to buy some time.
Unlike other companies such as Liqui Moly and Hot Shot’s Special, Bar’s Leaks does not appear to have made any of their scientific research or findings public. This lack of transparency feels shady to us. We like to see companies that release products with the appropriate certifications and scientific data to back up their claims.
If you’re in a tight spot with a damaged or dying CVT transmission, Bar’s Leaks may offer you a temporary lifeline. However, don’t expect this to solve all of your issues. CVTs are notorious for suffering catastrophic failures, and this product is mostly a bandaid for a festering mechanical wound.

Pros

Specifically designed for CVT
Made in America
Stops leaks & rejuvenates seals

Cons

No public scientific data/research
Not very reliable
Not for preventative maintenance

Guide to Selecting the Right Transmission Additive in 2020
Though they often look the same at a glance, all transmission additives are not created equal. To make sure that you buy an additive that will both work for your vehicle and do what you want it to, keep the following in mind.
Types of Transmissions
There are three major types of transmissions, and knowing which one you own is the most critical determinate in making a purchasing decision.
Automatic Transmissions
Automatic Transmissions are the most common type of transmission in passenger vehicles today in the United States. Automatic Transmissions do not require you to shift or put in the clutch. You simply put the car in drive or reverse and get a move on. Automatics are the ideal option for ease of use and longevity combined as they generally last well over 150,000 miles and do not require much maintenance aside from the routine fluid change. Many common additives work with automatics, including our top overall pick.
Manual Transmissions
Manual transmissions are somewhat of a dying breed when it comes to traditional passenger vehicles. They are most commonly found today in sports cars and 4x4s. A manual transmission requires the driver to shift through gears, either assisted or unassisted.
Manuals, or standards, are seen as the hardest to learn how to drive with but still have their enthusiasts. Manual transmission additives are primarily designed to reduce heat and increase viscosity to keep the gearbox running cool and smooth. Additives that work with manuals, like this affordable but excellent Lucas additive are also common.
CVT Transmissions
Continuous Variable Transmissions (CVT) are generally more complicated than traditional automatic transmissions, and when something goes wrong, it is usually a costly repair. They are also the hardest to work on due to their belt or chain-driven design. Most newer Japanese vehicles run on a CVT, including most Hondas, Toyotas, Subarus, Lexus, and Nissans.
These transmissions require specialty transmission additives because of the belt-chain drives. These formulas are usually designed towards cleaning and stabilizing the internals of the CVT. They ensure that the belt/chain doesn’t slip or experience unwanted friction.
Some popular additives for standard automatics work well with CVTs, but there are also a few CVT-specific options on the market.
Types of Transmission Additives
What if you broke your leg, and your doctor gave you a knee brace and said, “In a few weeks, wearing this, you’ll be good as new.” You would probably simultaneously laugh and cry because of the ridiculousness of your doctor. Using the wrong transmission additive in a struggling transmission will have the same predictable results. It probably won’t fix your issue, and even if it does make the problem less obvious, underneath, the problem will still be there.
Stop Leak
Stop Leak formulations like the Liqui Moly 20040 ATF Additive usually use some combination of plasticizers and elasticizers to expand and repair existing rubberized seals. These are most commonly used in vehicles with automatic transmissions. Some companies use ester to combat leakage, while others use a mineral-based petroleum compound to stop leaks. Some even use a combination of the two.
It is crucial to double-check each additive’s active ingredients, especially if you own a CVT-propelled vehicle. CVTs should never have petroleum-based additives added to their existing fluid. The solvent can erode individual copper and electrical internalities that a CVT relies on for stable, consistent running.
If you see fluid on your garage floor or your driveway, this is the most likely remedy to your situation.
Rejuvenators
The other primary type is metal restorers and rejuvenators. These tend to work by combining and repairing, at an elemental level, the damaged, scuffed metal parts inside of a transmission that causes excessive noise, irregular shifting experience, or grinding. These products are generally also designed to remove gunky build-up known as stiction or varnish.
If you hear a rattling or crunching sound coming when you try to shift, a rejuvenating additive like Hot Shot’s Secret Shift Restore may be the answer to your prayers.
Friction Enhancer
Friction Enhancers are a specific sub-type of transmission fluid additive. They are not used for any particular problem, but rather as a way to affordably increase the quality of your existing transmission fluid by converting cheap conventional oil to a synthetic or semi-synthetic fluid.
Friction enhancing additives are sometimes combined with either a stop-leak or metal restorer to do two jobs with one product. One example of this is the Lucas LUC10009.
If you recently purchased a new-to-you used car and are unsure of the transmission state, a friction enhancer would be the safest bet to ensure long transmission life.
How Do I Use a Transmission Additive?
Always ensure your safety by wearing safety glasses, gloves, and a mask while using transmission additives. These fluids can have dangerous side effects if ingested or have contact with your skin or eyes. The fumes from many of these products can be quite intense, and so a mask will ensure that you are not directly breathing in these toxic chemicals.
Once you’ve donned your PPE, it’s a simple DIY job: just get under the hood, pull out the dipstick, and use a funnel to pour the amount indicated on the container—usually the whole thing. All that’s left is to go for a short drive—try to get out for at least thirty minutes, and shift through all of your gears. Once you’re done, the additive should be good untill you need to fully change your transmission fluid.
Disposing of Transmission Additives
The disposal of these products and excess transmission fluid should be done properly and legally.
Collect old fluid from your transmission flush in an appropriately sized drain pan, usually at least 3 gallons.
Pour the liquid from the drain-pan into a leak-proof container or containers. Funnels or milk jugs make this a lot easier.
Find a local automotive fluid collection site. Some local waste facilities will have the capability of disposing of hazardous waste properly. If this does not apply to you, you can also check with chain auto-supply stores as many will accept the waste.
Drop off the old fluid. A few waste management companies will come to you, but more likely than not, you will need to take it to a local auto supply store. Ensure your seals are tight as you don’t want to spill that waste all over your vehicle.
Use the Environmental Protection Agency’s website to determine where you should dispose of your old oil and other automotive fluids.
Wrapping up
There are so many potential benefits from regularly using a transmission additive, both long-term and short-term. The best transmission additives can save you money, reduce wear and tear, reverse leaks, and repair damaged parts. Preventative maintenance is crucial to ensuring your vehicle has the longest life it possibly can. We hope that this guide has empowered you to make the correct decision regarding selecting a suitable additive for your transmission. More

Brakes are something you don’t really want to think about. That’s because usually if you are thinking about them, it means they aren’t working so well. Trailer brakes are no exception. When you tow a heavy load, you don’t want to be wondering whether or not the trailer will stop. The first step towards peace of mind is when towing is making sure you have a good brake controller. If you don’t have one, then good news. This guide is for you.

Tips on Choosing a Trailer Brake Controller
Since trailer brake controllers are all supposed to do the same thing – bring a trailer to a stop – there isn’t much variety in how they function. That’s good; it means no matter what you choose, you will get something that works.
The most significant ways they differ concern how they mount, how you use them, and how much control they give you. If you know what you’re looking for, you can jump straight to our reviews. If not, read on and we’ll go over the key things to think about.
Mounting Locations
This is the most straightforward category since it just concerns where you put the thing. It is probably one of the biggest influences on choosing a controller. It directly affects how easy it will be to install and whether or not it will fit your lifestyle.
Under Dash
Under dash boxes are the most common brake interface. They are often simple black boxes with some LEDs on them, and they hang down near the steering wheel for easy access while you drive.
In-Dash
In-dash modules can be bought in two ways. Universal modules are simple dials or buttons that you mount in your dash after drilling a hole or finding an empty space. Check out the Spectrum controller on our list for an example of this type.
The other way to get an in-dash button is to buy a controller meant to work with your vehicle. Most trucks have accessory bays in the dash already. All you have to do is buy the right module for your year and model and click it in. We have one on our list for an F150, but there are a lot more out there.
Trailer Mount
Some brake controllers mount directly to the trailer. These tend to be expensive but powerful. Sometimes they include wireless controls, like the Autowbrake controller that we recommend. Sometimes they just don’t have any controls and rely entirely on sensors to operate.
Formats and Interfaces
There are only 3 controls you really need on a brake controller: one for the power level, one for sensitivity, and one for emergency braking. Some controllers will have more options. Advanced controllers may have modes that you can select. Timed controllers will have a separate way to set the time it takes for the brakes to come on.
What will change from unit to unit is how you operate those controls. The levels will either be controlled by a + and – button or a little thumb dial. The emergency stop is most often a slide switch, but some companies use a much more simple button press.
Uncommon Interfaces
The interfaces do sometimes get crazy. The Echo controller we recommend uses your cell phone to control it – so you get a full touch screen interface. The monster Tekonsha module we recommend uses a funky walky-talky looking thing as the interface.
Other Features to Consider
Since sending a signal to a brake system is not a complicated process, once you’ve decided on how you want to install it and how you want to interact with it, you are pretty much there.
That being said, there are still other features and words you will come across as you research them, so we’ll touch on them here.
Proportional vs. Timed
Trailer brake controllers can either be proportional or timed. Proportional is the ideal way to go about it. In fact, we only recommend one timed controller, and even then, we don’t suggest it for anything other than occasional towing. We go way more in-depth in our full guide if you are curious.
Wireless
Wireless controllers don’t have wires that need to run from the dash to the trailer. Most of them still have wires though, either for plugging the receiver into the trailer itself or to power the transmitter. Except for the Echo controller, which is really, truly wireless.
Axles
Trailer brake controllers can only control a certain number of brakes. They express this number by telling you the number of axles they support. A three-axle controller can support six brakes since each axle will usually have two brakes. Almost all controllers nowadays are three or four axles rated, so it’s not something the average person needs to be concerned about. If you have a five-axle trailer, you probably know more about towing than this guide might be able to teach you.
Leveling, Sensing, and Accelerometers
This category gets really complicated, so we’ll go over it more in our full guide. All trailer controllers have some manner of sensors to tell when they need to engage. It’s best to let the manufacturer figure out what the most effective sensors for their unit are.
With the basics out of the way, let’s get into the products. Like with most review lists, you should choose the one that fits your situation best, not the one we like the best. We have to balance a lot of factors, like price and accessibility. We’ve made our best effort to bring all the relevant things to your attention, but only you can decide which features are the most important to you.

Top 10 Best Trailer Brake Controllers 2020

1. Best Overall Brake Controller: Tekonsha Primus IQ

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Why we like it: The Tekonsha Primus IQ is the perfect balance between price, control, and quality.
Editor’s Rating:

Where It Goes
The Primus IQ is your everyday standard under-dash mounted black box controller. You bolt the bracket to wherever you can reach from the driver’s seat and then attach the controller to the bracket.
The only thing that sets this Tekonsha apart compared to the very similar Curt controller is that it also includes a snap-in bracket for even more mounting options. You don’t have to only mount it under a surface. If you have space, feel free to attach it wherever you can.
How to Use It
This is a super standard, straightforward unit. You squeeze the slide button to activate the brakes manually, and the sensitivity is automatically calibrated. You can boost the power level temporarily by pressing the button on the top and cycling through a few different modes, and you can adjust the power level with the little dial on the side.
The LED display on the front is easy to read, and it will display problem codes if you have a problem. All in all, it’s just a really simple, easy to use unit. Even if you know nothing about trailer brake controllers, you can probably get into a vehicle with this unit and figure out how it works.
Our Thoughts
Oftentimes for us it comes down to the answer to one question: if you could only recommend one unit, which one would it be? It would have to be the product most likely to work for everyone. It would also have to be intuitive to use, and it can’t be too expensive. It might not be the best at any one thing, but it will probably work for anyone.
That’s what the Primus IQ is. It’s not the highest quality. In fact, the plastic might wear out and snap over time, and the manual override button sometimes feels terrible. Check out the Curt controller if you need more durability. The Primus also isn’t the cheapest on our list. That honor goes to the only timed option we recommend here.
It does represent the best balance between features, quality, usability, and price. And that’s why we can safely say that if you only want one option, it’s the Tekonsha Primus IQ.

Pros

Great value
Easy to use
Comes with multiple mounting options

Cons

Doesn’t feel very sturdy
The brake button doesn’t inspire confidence

2. Best-Looking Brake Controller: Curt Spectrum Original

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Why we like it: The Curt Spectrum is controlled by a simple, stylish dial that you can mount anywhere on your dashboard.
Editor’s Rating:

Where It Goes
The Curt Spectrum is actually two individual units. A box that can be mounted anywhere, and a dial that you should mount somewhere on your dash. By separating the box and the controls, you can do a super clean install and make it look like a factory feature.
How good it looks all comes down to how much DIY you want to do. Even if you just stick the control knob onto the face of a blank panel, it will still look better than an under-mount unit like the Tekonsha controller Where it can really get amazing, though, is if you are willing to drill a hole and mount that knob through a blank panel. That’s how you make it look like it came from the assembly line with it installed.
How to Use It
Since the only control the Curt Spectrum controller has is a single dial, it’s safe to say that the thing is pretty easy to use. You press it like a button to apply the brakes manually, and you turn the dial to change the power. It will calibrate itself, so you don’t even need to do that.
The downside is that the push button only comes on at full power, so there is no proportional braking if you need to override the sensors. That’s usually not a huge issue; if you have to come to an emergency stop, you want all the power you can get. If you do a lot of gravel or snow driving and you want ultimate control, though, go ahead and grab something like the more traditional Tekonsha Primus controller we recommend.
Our Thoughts
We love it when a product looks good inside the cab of the vehicle. We also love it when a product is super easy to use. The Curt Spectrum is both. In fact, we are confident in saying that it’s the easiest to use controller on our list. The LED lights fill up like a volume bar to display the power, so you don’t have to decipher arbitrary numbers. It doesn’t have any other buttons or switches.
It does cost a lot, though. It works great, and it’s worth the price, especially if you really value how the interior of your vehicle looks. There is one other unit like the spectrum on our list, and it’s cheaper. It’s made by Reese, but it definitely doesn’t look nearly as good.

Pros

Looks great
Very easy to use
Self-calibrating

Cons

Brake override is either on or off
A little expensive for a standard controller

3. Best Premium Brake Controller: Tekonsha Prodigy RF

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Why we like it: It costs a lot, but the Tekonsha Prodigy RF is worth every penny if you have a trailer full of horses to protect. There isn’t a better single trailer system on the market.
Editor’s Rating:

Where It Goes
The brain of the Tekonsha Prodigy mounts directly to your trailer. It ties directly into the wiring of the trailer and takes over as the main interface between your vehicle and the trailer’s electrical. We do mean take over, too. You have to rout the lights, brakes, and signals into the Tekonsha box since it also replaces your trailer’s connection cable. If that sounds like more DIY than you want to do, take a look at the Echo controller instead.
The actual controls are mounted to a wireless controller that sits in your cabin, or anywhere with a 12v outlet. It’s just a simple handheld box that looks kind of like the mouthpiece to an old CB radio.
How to Use It
The biggest advantage of a trailer-mounted control box is that you can tow the trailer with any vehicle and still control the brakes. That does give it an edge in usability over many other gadgets just because you don’t have to calibrate or change the settings very often.
However, the wireless element to it can add some frustrations. Like when your phone refuses to pair with your BT radio, the controller will sometimes just refuse to play nicely. It’s not a problem once it’s paired, but it just gets picky sometimes when you unplug the 12v source to the controller.
Our Thoughts
The dominating feature of the Tekonsha when you compare it to other trailer brake controllers is the price. We hate pointing that out because it’s really, really good, but it’s impossible to ignore. It’s also harder to install than other units, it takes more learning to use, and it only works with one trailer.
The benefits, though, can quickly make up for the hefty price tag. First off, if you have something like a shared trailer for horses or a boat, then there’s no substitute for a unit like this that can be used by any vehicle. We do mean any vehicle. Since you wire it directly into the trailer, you can configure it to work with trucks and SUVs that don’t have a tow package at all.
Second, it’s probably the best brake controller in terms of functionality on our list. It auto-calibrates itself, has a ton of advanced sensors for smooth operation, and is bulletproof. If you have really important cargo, like horses, it’s best to splurge a little and get that extra quality.

Pros

High-quality
Attaches to the trailer instead of the vehicle
Can be used with vehicles that have no factory controller wiring

Cons

Very expensive
Has a complicated install process

4. Best Budget Brake Controller: Reese Towpower

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Why we like it: Sometimes, you just need a simple, no-frills controller that won’t break the bank. If that’s the case, the Reese Towpower is perfect.
Editor’s Rating:

Where It Goes
The Reese Towpower is another standard, under-mount brake controller. There’s nothing special about the way it installs; you just anchor the bracket to the underside of a surface.
It is a pretty cheap, simple bracket. You can’t even adjust the controller’s angle, rather it just hangs there from a couple screws. That can be kind of annoying, especially if you pump it with your knee and accidentally loosen it up.
How to Use It
There is a plus and minus button to control the boost, and there is a separate set of plus and minus buttons to control the gain. The brake override is a simple slide switch.
Other than that, there are no hidden cool features or presets. You set all the options, and that’s what you get.
What really sets it apart from other budget options is that it’s still a proportional system, not a timed system. That alone means it’s easy enough to use. You don’t have to mess with it too much; there’s no synchronizing or timing you have to worry about. Just make sure the wheels on the trailer don’t lock when you come to a stop while driving.
Our Thoughts
The Reese Towpower is not the cheapest controller on the list. The cheapest controller on the list is the Curt Venturer, but it is time-based, and you don’t want that. We live in the future now. Proportional braking is safer and more comfortable to drive with than timed.
It is the least expensive proportional unit, though. That’s perfect if you need a brake controller, and you are on a budget. The buttons might break, the LED display might blink on and off sometimes, but it’ll control your trailer brakes just fine.

Pros

Inexpensive
Easy to use
Easy to install

Cons

Mount isn’t very good
Build quality is pretty low

5. Most High-Tech Brake Controller: Curt Echo Mobile

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Why we like it: The Echo is wireless and is easy to move from vehicle to vehicle. It’s the perfect thing for someone who only occasionally tows something.
Editor’s Rating:

Where It Goes
The Curt Echo is perhaps the craziest piece of tech that we have on our list, and frankly, we just think it’s neat to share the fact that it exists with people. One of the biggest reasons that it’s kind of crazy is because of where it mounts. It plugs into your trailer plug on your car, and then the trailer plugs into it.
That’s it. It doesn’t need mounting, wiring, or a dedicated vehicle/trailer. You control it with your phone, so there isn’t anything else to it. Plug it in, done.
How to Use It
This device is probably the most polarizing unit when it comes to ease of use. If you are familiar with app-controlled devices, you won’t have any issues. You install the app, pair it with the device, and follow the instructions on the screen.
People who don’t often use their cell phones to control gadgets might find it frustrating. BlueTooth can sometimes be a pain in the butt, cell phones can be a pain in the butt, and combining the two can be a pain in the butt. If you are not the type of person who is willing to troubleshoot connectivity issues, just get the Autobrake wireless brake controller instead. It comes with a key fob, no app needed.
The one thing that might piss everyone off is the big brake override button. While you are running the app, the brake override button is just a big button in the center of the screen, which is fine if you have your phone mounted in a place where you can reach it. It goes away if you get a call or drop your phone, and then you have no override button. That is not ideal.
Our Thoughts
There are some people who value new, innovative gadgets over tried and true tools. Some of them tow the occasional trailer, and the Echo was designed for them. It’s definitely not for everyone. People who aren’t into using their cell phones for everything or people who tow a lot of trailers will prefer a more traditional brake controller. Tech nerds, though, will absolutely love this thing.

Pros

Works on any vehicle
Works on any trailer too
Really easy to use if you are comfortable using cell phone apps

Cons

Really terrible to use if you are not comfortable using cell phone apps
The override button can disappear if you get a call

6. Best Trailer Mounted Brake Controller: Autowbrake Plug and Tow

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Why we like it: The Autowbrake is just a box you attach to your trailer; it doesn’t have any wires that need to be run through or take up any dash space.
Editor’s Rating:

Where It Goes
The Autowbrake is another trailer-mounted controller. Naturally, that means it mounts to your trailer rather than inside your truck or SUV.
Unlike our other trailer-mounted brake controller, you don’t have to replace the existing cable if you don’t want to. You can just splice this one in, which is a little easier than replacing the entire junction box.
We do recommend replacing the whole junction box with a new self-enclosed cable, like this one. It’s the sort of thing where if you are going to go through all the trouble to install this wicked-awesome brake controller, you might as well go the distance and make the wiring really neat and tidy too.
How to Use It
There are two separate processes when using the Autowbrake controller. The first process, the initial calibration, can be a bit tricky. The best way to understand is to just watch one of their representatives explain it. You have to calibrate every single brake controller on the market. The Autowbrake is just a little less intuitive than other units.
The good news is that the process of using it after you calibrate it is ridiculously easy. You get a keyfob with the controller. On the keyfob is a button in the center for the brake override, an up arrow to turn the braking force up, and a down arrow to turn the braking force down.
Our Thoughts
Can we be honest with you for a moment? The Autowbrake both costs less than the Tekonsha Prodigy controller, and it’s the one we’d recommend between the two. The Tekonsha is a little sturdier, and the remote control does give you more options than the Autowbrakes key fob. Also, there is less of an established user base for this controller. At the end of the day, though, the Autobrake is easier to work with and looks better. Call us vain, but we like saving money and looking good.

Pros

Attaches to the trailer instead of the car
You don’t have to replace the trailer cable if you don’t want too
The key fob controller is neat and easy to use

Cons

Calibration is a little complicated
Even though it’s easier to install than the other wireless unit, it’s still not easy to install

7. Most Durable Brake Controller: Curt TriFlex

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Why we like it: The Curt TriFlex is tough, simple, and is full of automatic sensors that make it easy to use.
Editor’s Rating:

Where It Goes
This is another one of those standard, under-mount controllers. Just like the Tekonsha Primus, it’s got a metal bracket that attaches to any surface, and then you attach the controller to the bracket. You splice it into the existing tow wiring, or you buy an adapter cable.
How to Use It
It’s got a single dial and a squeeze switch for the brakes. That’s it. There’s nothing on this list that is simpler to interact with. The level dial is big and friendly, and the squeeze switch is solid and feels high quality.
You might miss some of the fine-tunings that other controllers offer, but honestly, the TriFlex is so full of sensors you are probably better off letting it do the thinking.
Our Thoughts
It’s always tough reviewing a product that prides itself on being simple. We take that back; it’s tough to review a product that prides itself on being simple if it succeeded at its job. The TriFlex succeeds. It’s a stout, well-built unit that is everything you need to bring the largest trailer to a stop, and nothing you don’t.
The only thing stopping it from being the number one controller on the market is the price. We can safely say that if you have a work truck that takes a lot of abuse from day to day, it’s worth the price. It’ll outlast most other under dash units.

Pros

Sturdy
Easy to use
Full of sensors that make it work great

Cons

Expensive
No fine control options

8. Most Compact Brake Controller: Reese Towpower Compact IQ

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Why we like it: The entire Reese Compact is tiny, but it doesn’t skimp on functionality. It can be hidden anywhere, which is perfect for keeping your interior tidy.
Editor’s Rating:

Where It Goes
The Reese Compact is a lot like the Curt Spectrum controller in that it has a brain that can mount anywhere, and a knob that mounts to your dash. It’s tiny compared to the Curt. The knob is less than half the size, and the brain is barely a quarter of the size.
It’s not as clean to install, though. The backing plates are not as nice, the LED is separate from the knob assembly, and the whole thing just doesn’t look as good as the Curt Spectrum.
How to Use It
There’s no override button, so that’s bad. It’s also a bit fiddly. The knob is actually two separate knobs stacked on top of each other, one for the boost and one for the sensitivity. Sometimes turning them independently from each other is tricky.
Despite that, it’s got enough sensors that you don’t have to mess with it too much. It’s not complicated or anything. It’s just hard not to compare it to the much easier to use and understand Curt Spectrum.
Our Thoughts
We bash the Reese Compact IQ a little bit in the above sections, and that’s because it’s not as good looking or as easy to use as the Curt Spectrum. However, it does have one major advantage that makes it absolutely worth a look: it’s half the price.
Performance-wise you likely won’t notice a difference between the two, and other than the lack of override, there is little difference in function. That means if you can put up with the relative lack of good looks and the cheap-feeling knob, you do get a great deal with the Reese.

Pros

In-dash installation keeps your interior clean
Very compact and easy to install on any vehicle
Has enough sensors to keep operation easy

Cons

Ugly
No override feature

9. Best Cheap Brake Controller: Curt Venturer

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Why we like it: It’s dirt cheap, and it will stop a trailer eventually. Sometimes that’s all you need.
Editor’s Rating:

Where It Goes
The Curt Venturer is yet another standard black box controller that mounts to a metal bracket. It’s less adjustable than more expensive units like the Tekonsha Primus, but it’s not terrible to install.
How to Use It
This is the only time-based brake system we recommend, and that means that it’s the most difficult to use. It’s not difficult to set up or adjust or anything, but it’s the one that will take the most getting used to when it comes to driving.
See, unlike every other controller on the list, a time-based controller goes from no braking, ramps up to full braking, and stays that way until you take your foot off the brake. We’ll get more into it in the bottom section here, but basically, it’s like driving with a brake that’s on an on/off switch.
It will bring your trailer to a stop. As the driver, though, it will feel more like dropping an anchor. That can really tarnish the driving experience.
Our Thoughts
There’s nothing wrong with putting a time-based controller on a farm truck that rarely sees street use, or on the SUV you only keep around to tow the boat to the lake once a year. Time-based controllers are really cheap, and they work well enough to keep you on the road.
If you do drag a trailer somewhat often, though, spend the extra $20 on the Reese Towpower instead. You’ll have a better time towing, and you won’t have to worry about locking the wheels on your expensive trailer. Unless you are into impromptu smoke shows and premature tread wear. In that case, knock yourself out.

Pros

Cheap
It will activate the trailer brakes when you brake
Easy enough to install

Cons

The worst thing on our list for driving comfort
Will cause premature wear to parts on your trailer

10. Best In-Dash Brake Controller: Ensun In-Dash

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Why we like it: The F-150 is the most popular truck in the world, and it comes pre-wired for trailer brake controls. This unit takes advantage of that by simply dropping into a slot in the dash.
Editor’s Rating:

Where It Goes
In the 2015-2020 Ford F150, there is a blank cover down and to the right of the steering wheel. You pop that cover off and pull the wires out. Plug in this controller and snap it in.
Just as a note, these types of modules are not limited to Ford F150s. Other trucks like the Ram series and the Silverado series also have drop-in modules similar to this one. Just search your make, model and the words brake controller, and you will be able to see if there is an in-dash unit like this one for your vehicle.
Just be aware that some vehicles never had a factory tow option, and that means they are not wired for a brake controller. If they don’t have the wiring, chances are no one makes a dedicated dash controller for it.
How to Use It
Like most factory or factory looking devices, the Ensun In-Dash is as simple as can be to use. There’s a plus, a minus, and a slider for the override.
The really annoying thing about these devices is that there’s no display. Sometimes they work with the screens already in your truck. Sometimes they don’t; it depends entirely on how your vehicle is set up. Regardless, there’s not even a light-up LED gauge like the Spectrum controller has. You have to do it by feel, and that can take some getting used to.
Our Thoughts
These kinds of products only work for very specific circumstances. First, you have to have a truck, SUV, or crossover with a factory tow option. Second, at the time of purchasing the vehicle, the vehicle did not have that option selected. Most trucks fit the bill as many people will opt-out of the tow package when they buy them but might buy a trailer later on.
If that description fits you, and you value the factory look, these things are perfect. We recommend the Spectrum and the Compact IQ modules for everyone else who wants a factory look.

Pros

Very easy to install
Looks factory fresh
Easy to operate

Cons

There isn’t a module for every vehicle
The lack of display can be annoying

The Full Guide to Trailer Brake Controllers
It’s always amazing how something so simple can be so complicated, isn’t it? A brake controller controls brakes; why are there so many buttons and knobs? Don’t worry, we put together this guide to take all the mystery out of it and get you stopping in comfort as fast as possible.
What Does a Brake Controller Do?
Long story short, some trailers have electric brakes. In order to utilize them, you need a brain that sends a signal to the brakes and controls them. A controller for the brakes, as it were. There are trailers that use a different, non-electric brake system, but they don’t need a controller.
The brain works in one of two ways. We mentioned them before, but brake controllers either use a bunch of sensors and are proportional, or they use a simple electronic timer and are time-based.
Proportional
Proportional brake controllers have taken over as the standard way controllers work. 9/10 of the controllers we recommend are proportional, from the inexpensive Reese Towpower to the bank-breaking Tekonsha Prodigy. That’s largely because they are safer and easier to drive with. A proportional controller applies braking force to the trailer proportionally to the tow vehicle, so the trailer brakes feel much more connected to the brake pedal.
Sensors and Calibration
They do this using a bunch of sensors, and that’s where the only downside to proportional controllers comes in. You have to do some work to make sure all those sensors are working correctly. Most modern brake controllers are self-leveling and self-calibrating, but you have to give them time to calibrate and test them out before going on a long haul. Some controllers need your help calibrating, like the Autowbrake controller we love so much.
There are still controllers for sale that are not self-leveling. We don’t recommend any of those; it’s not worth it.
Just be sure to read the instructions, you’ll be fine.
Time-Based
Brake controllers that are timed are much simpler than proportional timers. The way they work is that when you press on the brake pedal in your car, a countdown starts in the brake controller. As the controller counts down, the percentage of trailer brake power increases.
For the sake of simplicity, let’s say the delay is set to 10ms. That means as soon as you press the brake pedal, the trailer is at 0% brake, and the timer begins counting down from 10ms. At 9ms, the trailer starts braking at 10% power, at 5ms, the trailer is braking at 50% max power, and at 0ms, the trailer’s brakes are fully applied. You can adjust the amount of delay in most units.
Problems With Time-Based Braking
The issue with that is that the trailer becomes an anchor. It either won’t brake as quickly as the tow vehicle because the delay is too long, or it will be trying to stop much faster than the tow vehicle. Overbraking is the more dangerous outcome since the wheels on the trailer can lock completely. Not only does that wear out your tires and brakes much faster than a proportional system, but it makes for a very unpleasant experience.
Time-based controllers aren’t all bad, though. First off, they are way cheaper than proportional controllers. If you have a big trailer and you need a brake controller, but don’t have a lot of cash, by all means, get one. We recommend the Curt unit here. They are still way better than nothing.
They also are much simpler and don’t need calibration or leveling. That really shouldn’t be a decision-maker; brakes are not something you want to take the easy route with. But if you have an old farm truck, just need something good enough, and that doesn’t require any messing with – then time-based controllers are fine.
[Image:https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/pickup-wehicle-horse-trailer-on-rocky-1069884806 alt text: towing a gooseneck trailer with a truck]
Installing a Brake Controller in Your Vehicle
One of the biggest questions you might have is, “can my car even use a brake controller?” The answer is yes, it’s just a matter of how much work you will have to do to install them. There are three loose categories that will affect how easy it is to install a brake controller.
Vehicles With a Brake Controller Option
If your car already has a tow package that includes an existing brake controller or spot for a brake controller, you are in luck. You just buy the module that fits in the factory location, like this one we recommend, and snap it in.
Vehicles That Are Pre-Wired for a Controller
Most of the time, if a vehicle can tow a trailer, it does have wiring for a brake controller. You simply have to mount the controller and buy the right adapter. The easiest thing to do, and the thing that will tell you instantly if your truck or SUV is pre-wired, is to google “make+model+year+brake controller wiring adapter.”
Once you have the adapter, you just install the controller in a place that you can reach it. Most people seem to prefer down and to the right of the steering wheel, but honestly, it’s up to you. Plug the controller into the adapter, plug the adapter into the factory harness, and you are good to go.
Vehicles That Are Not Pre-Wired
Suppose you have a smaller truck or another vehicle that isn’t normally known for towing. In that case, you probably don’t have factory wiring to tie into.
You have two options if your vehicle doesn’t have any factory wiring. The easiest is to just buy a wireless controller like the Echo controller we recommend. If your vehicle doesn’t even have a seven-pin output, we straight up recommend you don’t tow a big enough trailer to require brakes.
We know some people will do it anyway. Those people should get trailer-mounted wireless modules like the Tekonsha Prodigy. With those units, you can do all manner of DIY solutions.
The more difficult solution is to run your own wires. You only need 4, and they just need to go from your trailer connector to wherever you want to mount the controller. You can get away with 3 wires if you pull the power from somewhere else. Honestly, if you consider this option, you probably already know what you need to do and don’t need us saying anything.
Using the Controller
Every controller is a little different, so it’s important to read the directions. However, there are some general tips and tricks to help you get the most out of the experience.
Calibrate the controller: Read the directions supplied and follow them to calibrate the controller. It’s an important step and one that is missed surprisingly often.
Do test stops before getting on major roads: If you can, get up to 45mph and do some test stops with your trailer off the main roads. You don’t want to discover that something is wrong after you merge onto the highway.
Don’t be afraid of the adjustments. Read this guide. It’s written by Curt, who you’ll recognize as one of the major manufacturers we recommend. Not only does it have really straightforward instructions for getting your settings right. It also has pictures that illustrate a lot of the concepts we talk about in this article.
Stop and pull over if you think something is wrong. If you’re worried about your brakes, or something feels off, stop driving and diagnose the issue. Brake controllers can malfunction or be installed incorrectly; if the brakes feel wrong, stop driving. It’s not worth it.
Enjoy a Worry-Free Adventure
Whether you are towing a trailer full of quads to tear up the dunes, or you are towing a bobcat to dig a new flower bed, you are probably going on an adventure. If you are towing a heavy trailer with no brake controller, your adventure will be more horror movie and less Indiana Jones. Don’t do that to yourself. Grab one of the black boxes we recommend, install it, and enjoy worry-free towing. More

It doesn’t matter if it’s after a flat tire on the side of the road or a first home oil change in the garage. At some point in every car owner’s life, they’re going to need to lift their vehicle away from the ground to perform maintenance or emergency repairs.
As very few people on this planet can lift a car alone, let alone change a tire while doing it, that means everyone who drives a car is going to need to own a car jack eventually. But how do you know which is right for you? What makes a floor jack different from a trolley jack? If you’re asking these kinds of questions already, you’re in luck – this page was written just for you.

How to Evaluate a Good Car Jack
There’s tons that goes into figuring out what kind of car jack is good for you – everything from your make and model to the types of roads you drive on and the weather you do it in can make a difference in choice here.
Blindly buying a car jack is a great way to end up with a tool that won’t even fit under your vehicle – or might be too weak to hold it up, creating an incredibly dangerous situation for anyone nearby.
To help you make an informed purchase, we’ve broken down the criteria we used to evaluate these jacks for you.
Type
You’ll find a variety of choices of different types of car jacks, but they can mostly be broken down into options that use hydraulics and ones that don’t.
We have a lot more to say about your different choices in our guide below, so if you’re unsure of exactly what each car jack type means, make sure you check it out.
Capacity
This is the weight capacity of each car jack – how much it can lift without compromising its own integrity. Every jack we’ve chosen meets or exceeds the ASME PASE safety standards, meaning they should easily handle anything they say they can, but we do recommend caution when getting anywhere near the weight limit.
It’s best to go overboard where capacity is concerned. That means it’s important to know the weight of your vehicle and how that relates to tonnage (2,000 pounds is roughly one ton).
Lift Range
This is the height, from minimum to maximum, that the car jack can extend. Along with knowing how heavy your vehicle is, you’ll need to measure its clearance – that is, how much space there is between the underside of the vehicle and the ground below.
If your clearance is lower or close to equal to the minimum, you’re not even going to be able to get your jack under the car. Likewise, if your vehicle is too tall, even a fully extended jack might not lift your wheels. Always measure these things before making a purchase to make your life a lot easier.
Weight
Not all car jacks are created equal. Some are great for keeping in your trunk, light and easy to move around, while others are nearly hundred-pound hunks of metal designed to live on the floor of a shop or your garage. Make sure you match your needs and ideal use cases with the jack you’re buying, or else you may be stuck with a car jack you didn’t need.
Design
Design and convenience are the biggest elements that set the top car jacks apart. Under the design subsection in each review, you’ll find everything you need to know about the build quality, safety, and any unique features the car jack’s design itself provides. If there are design flaws or criticisms, we’ll also mention them here.
Convenience
This section is about general ease of use, transport, and quality of life things like warranties or customer support. With so many jacks to choose from, sometimes highly similar in use and design, overall convenience can be the deciding factor. We want to focus our attention on keeping our vehicles running well, not fussing about how to lift them.
With these aspects in mind, you should have a better idea on how we approached ranking this list. You can read on to see our picks for the top ten best car jacks money can buy, or head down to after the reviews, where we’ve got a detailed guide with everything you might want to know about car jacks.

Top 10 Best Car Jacks 2020

1. Best Overall Pick: Pro-Lift F-767 Floor Jack

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Why we like it: A well-constructed, reliable hydraulic jack that’s simple to use and offered for a reasonable price – we found Pro-Lift’s F-767 Floor Jack a great all-around choice for anyone looking to add a jack to their garage. It’s our favorite choice for the average car owner.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Notes
Type: Floor jack
Capacity: 2 tons
Lift Range: 3-½” – 14”
Weight: 30 lbs.
Design
This jack makes it easy to appreciate the simple joys of a basic floor jack. The low-profile design is perfect for getting under cars that sit too close to the ground for other jacks but can lift high enough to use on most sedans too. Our only let down was the lift range not being wide enough to use on compact SUVs despite having the capacity for it.
You might find yourself surprised at how deceptively light the packaging is once the Pro-Lift F-767 reveals just how large and sturdy it is. Despite that large size, well-oiled wheels make it easy to maneuver into place with the sturdy steel lever.
Convenience
This jack isn’t quite as portable as its smaller cousin we’ve also reviewed, but for a floor jack, it really is surprisingly maneuverable. It even comes with a carrying handle, which works in tandem with its relatively low weight to make it easy to move wherever you need it. It also builds pressure fairly quickly, meaning less pumping of the lever to worry about.
Verdict
You’ll be able to find fancier electric car jacks or behemoths capable of lifting even the largest of vehicles out there, but if you’re looking for a car jack that works great at home but is light enough you could throw it in the trunk in a pinch, the Pro-Lift F-767 will have you covered, making it our choice for the best overall car jack.

Pros

Simple, classic design executed well – very easy to use
Well-designed wheels provide great maneuverability
Surprisingly lightweight for such a durable jack
Low-profile design is great for low clearance vehicles

Cons

Lift range is a bit short, won’t work on higher clearance cars or SUVs

2. Best Premium Pick: ROGTZ Electric Scissor Jack

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Why we like it: For anybody looking for a car jack best described as ‘feature-packed,’ this is it. With a load of convenience features and no need for manual labor except unpacking it and sliding it under your car, the ROGTZ Electric Scissor Jack was our favorite choice for premium by far.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Notes
Type: Scissor jack
Capacity: 2 tons
Lift Range: 4-¾” – 16-½”
Weight: 13 lbs.
Design
The basic design of this car jack makes it a classic scissor jack, but that’s where the old-fashioned influence ends. We loved seeing a jack that tries to innovate with modern technology. Operating this jack is as simple as pressing a button, literally. There’s an electric motor you can either power with a 12v outlet – like the ones car-based phone chargers plug into, or hook directly up to your car battery.
All of this is especially great for anyone who can’t bend over for the long periods required to operate a normal jack. Even if you’re just looking for pure convenience, this car jack is an awesome choice.
Convenience
ROGTZ really went the distance when it comes to convenience features here. You get the sturdy carrying case, an included pair of work gloves, and even a set of three extra fuses in case you blow any. On top of that, the jack itself is waterproof and includes a bright LED light on it, making it easy to use even at night or in the rain. Just about the only inconvenience here is the jack won’t handle inclines.
Verdict
It was a pleasant surprise to find such a premium offering in a settled market like car jacks. You’re not going to get out of a bind on an incline with it, and if for some reason you can’t draw power from your vehicle, you’ll have to use the included manual hand crank. But if the more traditionally designed scissor jacks on this page are a little too hands-on for you, this is an expensive but well-made upgrade.

Pros

No spinning a handle or pumping a lever – press a button and it lifts
Premium features at a great price – comparable to non-electric jacks
Robust carrying case provides great portability
Plugs into an outlet or draws power from a car battery, so you can use it anywhere

Cons

Will not work on inclines

3. Best Budget Pick: Torin BIG RED Scissor Jack

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Why we like it: The Torin BIG RED Scissor Jack is a reliable portable emergency jack perfect for keeping in your trunk for flat tires. With the great budget price attached, this car jack is hard not to recommend for anyone looking for something light on the wallet.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Notes
Type: Scissor jack
Capacity: 1.5 tons
Lift range: 4-⅛” – 15-⅛”
Weight: 7.7 lbs.
Design
The jackscrew that provides the heavy-lifting strength is prominently displayed on this bright red car jack. Torin seems to have set out to try and prove there’s still a place for older car jack designs on the market, and it’s hard to deny they’ve hit their goal.
Made of high-quality drop forged steel, you shouldn’t have any issues with durability or strength when lifting under capacity, as long as you inspect your jackscrew and make sure it’s in good condition before use.
We do think it’s worth mentioning the safety tips we have below when dealing with a design like this, as it really isn’t meant to hold out for an entire brake pad or oil change. Any time you’ll be leaving your car jacked for longer than it takes to change the tire, use jack stands.
Convenience
Because of its small size and weight, this jack is incredibly easy to store away and quick to put to use when you need it most. Fully flattened out, you might even be able to fit it in your trunk’s spare compartment – but always measure things like this ahead of time, before you make a purchase.
Like we mentioned in the design section, you always want to inspect mechanical devices for defects before using them. If there is a defect, Torin provides a warranty that will guarantee you a free replacement within a year of purchase, as long as the damage didn’t come from misuse. Do yourself a favor and always keep an eye on the condition of your tools, new or old.
Verdict
A no-frills, reliable budget car jack – there’s not much else to it, but you don’t always need more than that. If you still don’t like the sound of spinning a handle yet like the idea of a scissor jack, we’ve covered jacks that can take care of that for you.
As long as you’re using it properly and not putting it under more stress than it’s designed for, this Torin BIG RED Scissor Jack will see you through plenty of uses, and that’s why we chose it as our best budget pick.

Pros

Great for anyone looking for a car jack on a budget
Collapsible and compact, easy to store in your trunk
The durable yet lightweight material is the best of both worlds
Year-long warranty that covers all manufacturer defects

Cons

Potential quality assurance issues – always inspect your jackscrew before use

4. Best Bottle Jack: Torin BIG RED Bottle Jack

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Why we like it: This lightweight, easy to use, and fairly priced bottle jack packs enough strength to lift even the heaviest vehicles on the market.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Notes
Type: Bottle jack
Capacity: 6 tons
Lift Range: 8-¼” – 15-¹⁵⁄₁₆”
Weight: 4 lbs.
Design
Except for some specialized multi-purpose bottle jacks we’ve reviewed, you’ll notice the best of this type stick to the basics when it comes to overall design. The hydraulic piston is well-sealed but easy enough to bleed or refill if you end up needing to. The adjustable screw that caps off the piston gives you those extra few inches of reach, adding extra range to the clearance or making it easier to hit that perfect jack point.
Convenience
We found the BIG RED Bottle Jack surprisingly light and compact for its strength, making it a great replacement for the manufacturer provided bottle jack that usually comes stock in SUVs and trucks. You’ll hardly notice the absence of wheels when Torin’s offering is so light and easy to move around. Obviously, this excludes the higher capacity models – the heavier the load you’re looking to jack, the larger the bottle jack you’ll need.
Verdict
This bottle jack is best in class and easily competes with the top picks on our list. It wins out over our other bottle jacks thanks to the wide range of models available, ranging from a tiny 2 ton all the way to a 50-ton monster that could jack an entire house off of the foundations. Not to mention with proper maintenance, these should last you for years to come.

Pros

High enough capacity to handle the heaviest vehicles on the market
Compact size and low weight make it easy to store and transport
Capable of lasting years with proper care and maintenance

Cons

Higher capacities take a lot of time and effort to raise

5. Best Portable Jack: Pro-Lift F-2315PE Trolley Jack

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Why we like it: A great portable alternative to the larger floor jacks on this list, Pro-Lift’s trolley jack fits the niche of anyone who finds a floor jack appealing but doesn’t have a need for such a heavy-duty piece of equipment in their garage or trunk.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Notes
Type: Trolley jack
Capacity: 1.5 tons
Lift Range: 5-¼” – 12”
Weight: 18 lbs.
Design
Pro-Lift continues to show why they’re one of the top manufacturers of car jacks with this down-sized version of a floor jack. They didn’t lose any of the reliability and build quality in the downsizing, but it’s not perfect.
You’ll definitely want to measure the distance between the ground and your car before getting a jack like this, because the biggest issue with it is the under 7 inches of lift range, easily one of the most limited on this list. Your vehicle will need to be in a bit of a Goldilocks zone for ideal use – not too close to the ground, but not too tall. Some people have had luck removing the wheels of their jack to get an inch or two more of clearance, but your mileage may vary.
Convenience
This makes for a great portable jack because of its weight, more comparable to a bottle jack than a massive floor jack. It’s only a little over a foot long, so it’ll easily fit in your trunk. There’s even a convenient carrying case, though some feel it could be a bit more durable.
Verdict
If you’ve ever been confused about the differences between a floor jack and a trolley jack, comparing this to its bigger sibling we reviewed is a great way to clear things up. What you’re losing in lift capacity, you’re gaining in portability, making this an awesome choice for compact cars. It’ll even work as a roadside jack in a pinch.

Pros

Carrying case and low weight make for great portability
The easy lifting and reliability of a floor jack but in a compact form
Wheels can be removed to help with the limited lift range a bit

Cons

Limited lift range means some cars can’t be lifted high enough to work on

6. Safest: Powerbuilt Alltrade All-in-One Bottle Jack

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Why we like it: Combining the lifting capabilities of a bottle jack with the solid support of a jack stand, Powerbuilt’s Alltrade All-in-One Bottle Jack is both versatile and one of the safest car jacks we’ve reviewed.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Notes
Type: Bottle jack/jack stand
Capacity: 3 tons
Lift Range: 11” – 17-¼”, up to 21” if manually adjusted
Weight: 22 lbs.
Design
One of our favorite designs on this entire list, Powerbuilt’s Alltrade jack is something other manufacturers should aspire to. As we break down after the reviews, one of the most important car jack safety rules is to never go under a vehicle supported by a car jack alone.
The way this jack pulls double-duty means you won’t have to worry about placing jack stands – just lock the stand in place with the heavy-duty safety lock and get to work. That means if you buy more than one of these, you can use them together as a budget lift of sorts, turning your home garage into a real mechanic’s shop.
Convenience
Though a bit bulkier than the average bottle jack, it’s easy to forgive when you compare it to the size of an average jack stand and realize this does the job of both. Thanks to the great lift range, this is perfect for trucks, SUVs, and vans alike – but the 11-inch minimum clearance requirement means you’ll need more compact options for anything sitting closer to the ground. As usual, make sure you measure the gap between the underside of your car and the ground before making a purchase.
Verdict
We’re huge fans of the double-duty design Powerbuilt has pulled off here. Safety is the highest concern when it comes to working on your car, so being able to get the reliable support of a jack stand out of a hydraulic bottle jack can’t be praised enough. It isn’t as well suited for low-clearance vehicles as our more compact bottle jack options, but is a brilliant addition to the garage for anyone with the right car.

Pros

Can hold a vehicle almost two feet off the ground, giving easy access to the underside
Locks in place and doubles as a jack stand
Works great in tandem with itself

Cons

Almost a foot of minimum clearance required rules out small cars

7. Best OEM Replacement: Pro-Lift B-004D Bottle Jack

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Why we like it: Rounding out Pro-Lift’s car jack offerings, this is a great, basic bottle jack at a cheap enough price you can replace the OEM jack in your SUV or truck with on a whim.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Notes
Type: Bottle jack
Capacity: 4 tons
Lift Range: 8” – 15-⅜”
Weight: 9 lbs.
Design
Extra attention has been paid to the durability of this simple looking bottle jack, the most stressed parts undergoing extra heat treatment. That means you’re getting a jack with parts that can stand the test of time. Thanks to its size it’s another jack that makes for a great replacement for the often harder to use jack your vehicle comes with.
We did notice some people have had issues getting the lifting piston to retract entirely, but lifting the jack from the bottom after unlocking it should give you enough room to pull it out from under your vehicle.
Convenience
This jack is light and easy to move around, another great choice for anyone seeking a good bottle jack for their collection. But we did find a few speed bumps where convenience is concerned. The instruction manual leaves a lot to be desired, covering only the basic operation and nothing about safety. It’s highly recommended you check out our safety tips on this page if you’re going for this jack.
Verdict
Pro-Lift’s Bottle Jack doesn’t stand out quite as well as their other car jack offerings, but that doesn’t take away from its quality. You’re getting a no-frills bottle jack with some extra attention given to durability, leading to a potentially longer-lasting jack.
Compared to the Torin Bottle Jack, Pro-Lift’s offering isn’t as available in as many sizes nor does it have as well written instructions, but you’ll find it does the job it’s meant to just as well as the competition, especially for the price.

Pros

Great replacement for your OEM bottle jack
Inexpensive but doesn’t sacrifice quality for the price
Heat-treated stress areas make for exceptional durability

Cons

Won’t retract as easily as some other bottle jacks – requires actual weight on the saddle
Instructions in the box aren’t as clear as they could be

8. Most Versatile: Torin BIG RED Floor Jack

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Why we like it: A durable high-capacity floor jack with a removable extended saddle neck and easy maintenance, the bright, cherry red paint job isn’t the only thing about Torin’s BIG RED Floor Jack that demands your attention.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Notes
Type: Floor jack
Capacity: 3 tons
Lift Range: 6” – 21”
Weight: 45.4 lbs.
Design
As if it isn’t obvious at first glance, this heavy-duty floor jack packs a ton of strength and has one of the widest lift ranges on this entire list. Thanks to the removable extended saddle neck, it’s easy to use on everything from sedans to vans and light-duty trucks, as long as they don’t exceed the rated capacity.
With the saddle neck attached, it takes far fewer pumps to actually get your car lifting – which is a relief because a lot of people have complained about the short length of the handle, making it awkward to pump at times.
Convenience
We did find this jack a little expensive compared to the competition on this list. The biggest difference in practice between the two is the extra ton of capacity on the BIG RED, but it’s hard to justify such a large increase in price for a single ton. Otherwise, it’s easy to roll around thanks to well-designed wheels, and isn’t so heavy you can’t pick it up and store it away on a shelf.
Verdict
Though it’s priced at a higher point than similarly strong car jacks on this list[, Torin upholds a reputation for quality jacks. The BIG RED Floor Jack rounds out their selection, along with the scissor jack and bottle jack that also made this list. The ease of use suffers a bit with a too-short handle, but if you can afford it, this is easily one of the best and strongest floor jacks available.

Pros

Great lifting range means it works on a variety of vehicles
Extendable saddle neck saves a lot of time when lifting high clearance vehicles
Maintenance seals are easy to access, refilling or bleeding fluid not a problem

Cons

Handle could be longer, sometimes hard to raise
High price compared to similar floor jacks

9. Easiest to Use: Arcan Quick Rise Floor Jack

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Why we like it: With a dual-piston pump that drastically reduces the time you’ll spend working the lever, this car jack is perfect for those looking for convenience and minimal time spent lifting.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Notes
Type: Floor jack
Capacity: 3 tons
Lift Range: 3-¼“ – 18”
Weight: 58 lbs.
Design
What really sets this jack apart is the dual-piston hydraulic lift. Nearly all other hydraulic jacks on the market operate off a single piston, which does the job well enough. Adding a second doubles the lifting force you get from each pump of the lever, making it far quicker and easier to raise to maximum height than other floor jacks.
This floor jack also features a large, rubber-padded saddle instead of a small, sharp metal disc. That protects the underside of your car and helps prevent any unnecessary bending of your jacking points. It also helps the jack’s stability quite a bit.
Convenience
The low profile of this jack means you’re going to have a hard time finding a vehicle it won’t slide under, making it a great choice for a garage that sees a variety coming through. It’s been seen lifting everything from 4Runners to low clearance stock racing cars. You’re really paying for this convenience, though, given the hefty price tag attached.
For something so expensive, we were a little disappointed to hear people have had issues with loose bolts and quality assurance on this Arcan floor jack as well. Though it’s nothing you can’t fix with a few tools laying around your garage, the fact that it’s necessary sometimes in the first place is a bit of a letdown.
Verdict
As the most expensive car jack on this list, higher even than the relative high-tech premium jacks on the market, the Arcan Quick Rise Floor Jack seems to have its sights set on the enthusiast and professional market. Still, if it’s good enough for them, it’ll most definitely meet the average person’s garage needs as long as they’re willing to part with the steep asking price.

Pros

Dual-piston lifting jacks your vehicle up in surprisingly few pumps
A large rubber saddle protects both the jack and vehicle while raising
High capacity but low profile means it’s great for all but the heaviest of vehicles

Cons

Very expensive – you could buy several other jacks for the price
Rare quality assurance issues, you may need to tighten bolts yourself

10. Most Stable: Alltrade Powerbuilt Heavy Duty Triple Lift Jack

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Why we like it: Thank to its wide surface, the Alltrade Powerbuilt Heavy Duty Triple Lift Jack
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Notes
Type: Floor jack
Capacity: 2 tons
Lift Range: 5-¼“ – 17-¾“
Weight: 85 lbs.
Design
Just one look at this heavy-duty car jack is all you need to know it means business. The wide, heavy, stand out feature is the ‘triple lift’ – called such because of the lift saddle and two padded lift rails that cap off the hydraulic arm. You usually see these lift rails on dedicated motorcycle jacks, but Alltrade has come up with a great design that works in the best of both worlds here.
The lift saddle provides a balanced jacking point while the rails help keep your vehicle as stable as possible. You can even remove the lift saddle, converting it fully into a motorcycle or ATV jack. This makes it perfect for adventurous types looking to maintain both their daily drivers and rugged exploration machines.
Convenience
While generally as hassle-free as one should expect from a floor jack, it does suffer from a few setbacks. The release mechanism for the jack can be a little unintuitive and tricky to operate – some people find their jacks apparently stuck with no way to lower, and others find it releases far too quickly, losing all strength immediately. We highly recommend reading through the instruction manual thoroughly, taking care to operate the floor jack correctly.
There have also been reports Arcan’s customer service is less helpful than they could be if you can get in touch with them at all. Luckily, this is a quality floor jack that shouldn’t need much interaction with the distributor, but it’s worth keeping in mind in case you do end up with issues.
Verdict
As with many of the heavier-duty jacks we’ve reviewed throughout this article, you’re going to have to pay a lot for a jack this large that is made out of quality metal. If the wide saddle is something important to you, though, we think that’s a fair price to pay for a jack that can lift almost anything with wheels, as long as it’s within capacity.
If you’re looking for durability like this without such a steep price tag, Alltrade’s Powerbuilt line also includes the Powerbuilt All-in-One Bottle Jack, which is reviewed elsewhere on this very page.

Pros

Incredibly heavy-duty and durable, easily the most on our list
Wide saddle means very little chances of slipping while jacking
Works great on ATVs, motorcycles, and even light trailers

Cons

Somewhat prone to difficulties lowering the jack
Complaints about unresponsive customer service are common

Guide to Car Jacks
[Image: https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/car-jack-560296651 alt text: scissor jack lifting vehicle]
If you own a car, you’re going to need a car jack – it really is that useful of a tool. Flat tires are inevitable, and it’s an expensive, time-consuming process to take your vehicle to the shop for simple things like oil changes. Ignoring these issues won’t work either – driving on flat or bald tires can be very dangerous, and neglecting oil changes can take literal years off the life of your car.
It’s important for every vehicle owner to understand how to use one of these. But if you’re feeling a little intimidated approaching the topic, not sure which car jack is right for you or how to safely operate them, we’ve got you covered with this handy guide to car jacks.
Car Jacks Explained
[Image: https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/young-male-mechanic-putting-red-hydraulic-460669228 alt text: kneeling mechanic using hydraulic jack]
Today, car jacks come in tons of shapes and sizes, allowing a single person to lift thousands of pounds with minimal effort. Using a car jack is easy enough most people take it for granted. Try to imagine how hard changing a tire would be if we had to hold the vehicles up ourselves!
Motor vehicle jacks are essential when it comes to maintenance and repair, so you can see why every car owner needs to spend some time learning about them.
Types of Car Jacks
[Image: https://www.shutterstock.com/image-illustration/hydraulic-floor-jack-bottle-scissor-3d-1031142178 alt text: several different types of car jacks]
While car jacks come in many different forms, you might be surprised to learn that most of them can really be categorized as one of two types – hydraulic or jackscrew. The difference comes down to how the jack actually gets its lifting strength and holds your vehicle up.
Jackscrew
The most classic type of jack is known as a jackscrew, or screw jack. They’re named for the large screw that makes their lifting mechanism possible. These use manual force alone rather than pressure, relying on something called mechanical advantage to turn a small amount of force – like spinning a handle – into enough strength to lift a vehicle.
As far as car jacks are concerned, there’s really only one type of screw jack you need to know about – the scissor jack. You can find a great example of a basic scissor jack on this very list. These work by using a jackscrew to expand the device like an accordion. There are even electrical jackscrews available that handle the spinning for you.
While the quality and safety of your jackscrew rely entirely on how well made the screw is, they’re a reliable design that’s been around as long as we’ve had jacks. It’s hard to go wrong with the time-tested option.
Hydraulic
The other type of car jack most commonly seen is a hydraulic jack. If you’re not familiar with hydraulics, they use a pressurized liquid (usually oil) to generate massive lifting force. You’re more likely to find hydraulic jacks inside of a shop or garage than in the trunk of your car, because they aren’t as flexible as jackscrews when it comes to ground condition and jacking points.
One major thing to note is hydraulic jacks are incredibly sensitive to shipping conditions. If they are handled carelessly or aren’t kept upright, they can easily leak fluid or find themselves with excess air inside. You can just as easily fix it yourself by learning how to maintain and care for a hydraulic jack – there are plenty of resources for that online, even in video form. There may even be businesses in your city that specialize in repairing and maintaining hydraulic equipment.
There’s a little more variety when it comes to hydraulic jacks than screw jacks. They range from ones perfect for personal use to those mighty lifts mechanics use to hold vehicles high enough to stand under, but the ones covered on this page are the ones you’re most likely to find while shopping.
Bottle jack: Resembling their namesakes, these are bottle-shaped jacks with a support pad affixed to an extending top. They’re strong but need a lot of clearance to get under a vehicle.
Floor jack: Close to the floor on wheels, a long lifting arm connected to a support pad provides lift. Flexible enough they fit most vehicles, you’ll find floor jacks in most mechanic shops.
Trolley jack: Similar to a floor jack, these set themselves apart by their more compact size and lower profile. If there’s a hydraulic jack in your car, it’s probably a trolley jack.
These aren’t the only types of jacks available to you, but they are the most commonly encountered ones. The difference between a floor and a trolley jack might be small, but it’s worth knowing, especially when ordering car jacks online.
Safely Using Car Jacks
[Image: https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/van-on-hydraulic-car-jack-stand-1432590413 alt text: van on jack stands]
It doesn’t take an expert to understand how dangerous trying to lift something as heavy as a vehicle is. You’ll want to take every safety precaution you can so you can focus on the task at hand without worrying about injuring yourself or damaging property. Studies have shown nearly 10,000 people a year injure themselves using motor vehicle jacks, and you don’t want to be one of them.
If you’re looking for some starter safety tips, we’ve put together a few to help you cover all of your bases when you find yourself using your car jack:
Park the car on the most level, paved surface available to you. If you have to park at an incline, park near the curb and point your wheels toward it.
Never use a jack on a soft surface like dirt, sand, or grass.
Consider using something to chock the wheels furthest from where you’re lifting, like bricks or wheel wedges.
Make sure you’re in park and the emergency brake is pulled.
Follow your car jack’s instructions carefully, taking care to place the jack properly.
If you’re going to work underneath the car, always use jack stands with your jack. Never use a car jack by itself when working under the car.
When the work is finished, safely remove any jack stands, slowly lower your vehicle, and remove any wheel chocks you used.
Even following all of these tips, it’s up to you to stay alert, aware, and smart when it comes to working on and around your vehicle. You might not even need a car jack for every job when a vehicle ramp could do the job just as well at home.
Car Jack FAQs
We’ve covered most of what you need to know, but if you’re looking for a quick answer to a question, read on to see what we think about some of the most frequently asked questions involving car jacks.
How Safe Are Car Jacks?
Used properly and kept in good shape, car jacks are perfectly safe to use. That said, because you’re dealing with heavy machines, it’s extremely important to follow the proper safety procedures, which we’ve detailed elsewhere on this page.
Can I Use a Car Jack Without Jack Stands?
As long as your car jack is rated for the weight it’s carrying, it should be able to support the weight of your vehicle on its own. We still highly recommend using them, however, as they’re quick and easy to set up but provide a strong extra layer of safety. The portable jacks you keep in your trunk work well but are only meant to be used alone in an emergency situation, like changing a tire on the side of the road. You should never go under a vehicle supported only by a car jack.
Do You Have to Use a Car Jack on Both Sides of a Car?
No, you don’t usually need to jack up a car on all sides unless you’re going to be leaving it that way for an extended period of time or you need access to the entire underside of the car. If you’re just changing the oil or a flat tire, lifting just the area of the car you need will work fine.
How Long Can a Car Jack Hold a Car?
Alone, a car jack should be able to hold a vehicle up as long as necessary, but if it’s going to be lifted for more than a day or so you should be looking into jack stands, as they provide a stable, reliable solution compared to a hydraulic or screw jack by itself.
Final Thoughts
Owning a car means owning some sort of a car jack – there’s no getting around that at the end of the day. Whether you’ve just got something for emergencies stashed away in the trunk of your car next to the spare or an elaborate set up with jack stands and ramps in your garage that can handle any vehicle you throw at it, you’ll be using a car jack at some point.
Knowing you’ve bought something you can rely on and learning how to use it safely means fewer worries about accidents, and the types of maintenance car jacks enable will mean your car will run smoothly for years to come. More

Vital to the safe, everyday functioning of your vehicle, it is hard to think of a component that needs to be chosen more carefully than the brakes. For peace of mind, you need to know that your car can come to a stop reliably and quickly should the worst happen.
That said, the choice should also be made with everyday use in mind. Emergency stops are rare, and what may matter most to you is the long-term use potential of your brakes. Healthy brakes don’t squeak, squeal or judder, and it is worth paying for quality to ensure you aren’t making replacements too often.

Choosing the Right Car Brakes
While you can’t afford to skimp on such an important part, it shouldn’t cost the Earth either. There are options available for most budgets and we have curated some of the best to ensure you are getting value for money, even when you aren’t picking the premium price.
So, read on, and we’ll explain what you need to know and present you with our top picks to help you make your decision.
Main Components
The modern disc brake is comprised of a number of parts, though we cover only two in this guide. One is the rotating rotor disc, which spins with the wheel, and the brake pads, which are attached to calipers that squeeze the disc to slow its spin through friction when the brake is applied.
The rotor disc and the brake pads are both replaceable and are the components that wear the most under repeated use. Most products featured in this guide come with both, offering a full replacement.
Material
Rotors and brake pads come comprised of a variety of different materials, and these have differing properties you will want to be aware of when considering a purchase.
The discs are, most often, made of cast iron. Steel or layered steel is an alternative or, for a more premium price, you can also find carbon or ceramic discs.
Likewise, there is a choice to be made for brake pads, and this can be seen as more significant since your pads will usually wear and need replacing more often. Brake pads can be made of semi-metallic, organic or ceramic materials.
If you want to know more about this, we tackle this subject in more depth in our section on components below.
Position and Fitting
Buying car components can be a nightmare if you’re not already well-informed. It is sometimes difficult to know if a part is right for your car without significant research.
For example, it’s worth noting that front and rear brakes are different and should be chosen based on your specific needs. Additionally, some rotors and brake kits only fit certain models of car.
Thankfully, Amazon has you covered. At the top of each product page is an easy-to-use widget that allows you to input your car’s specific details, and then tells you if the part you have selected is correct. This is especially helpful on components as integral and important as the brakes. No more mistakes or waiting on refunds.
Rotor Types
Rotors are a basic component, but come in a variety of types. They can be cross-drilled (good for bad weather), slotted (great for high-speed stopping), both, or neither.
It is common to see rotors available that are both slotted and drilled. This combines the advantages of both, and are often the more expensive options on the market. They have the additional benefit of looking great, which may be a draw to discerning drivers.
We cover this in more detail in our guide to brake rotors below.
Additional Features to Consider
There are many features to note when evaluating a particular product for purchase. Some of these may provide additional value, depending on your needs and what you are looking for, so it is worth keeping them in mind.
Many rotors come with an anti-corrosion coating as standard, such as zinc plating. This is worth looking for as it will extend the life of your component, especially if you are routinely driving in inclement conditions such as rain or heavy dust.
You may want to consider the weight of the part, also. It is generally believed that lighter rotors are better, but there is contention on this idea. Lighter brakes do well on paper, and this has to do with lower rotor inertia and greater heat dissipation, though unless you’re a gear-head you probably won’t notice much difference.
Finally, some products come with small extras such as lubricant, which may save you another purchase later down the line. It is always worth keeping an eye open for these mini-bargains.
Now that we’ve armed you with some of the knowledge you need to make your decision, it’s time to look at the ten best brakes that we’ve cherry picked from the market. By the time you’re done reading you’ll hopefully have the product right for you, or at least have a good start searching for exactly what you need.

Top 10 Best Car Brakes 2020

1. Best Overall Brakes: Power Stop K2069 Front Brake Kit

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Why we like it: This product is a winner – boasting quality materials and high-performance stopping power at a very reasonable price.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Position: Front
Material: Carbon-fiber ceramic
Rotors: Drilled, slotted
Weight: 57.1 pounds
This product from Power Stop shows us why they are a leading brand in the market for brake kits and components. Not just a great all-rounder, it also comes at a very reasonable price that’s hard to beat.
The kit includes two rotors and four brake pads for a full replacement of your front brakes. It is recommended to replace both at the same time to prevent uneven wearing, so Power Stop has you covered here.
The rotors are drilled and slotted, so come with the benefits of both. This means extra stopping power when you put your foot on the brake, and better heat dissipation to reduce wear and warping. They also feature Silver Zinc Dichromate plating as a ward against rust and corrosion, keeping your brakes healthy for longer and saving you money in the long run.
Made of a carbon-fiber ceramic compound, Power Stop boasts that their brake pads are a significant improvement over regular ceramic materials—though they’re not quite as good as the excellent rotors here. This means less noise, more ‘bite’ and much less dust created. In some rare cases, however, they have been known to wear down faster than they should.
As a bonus, the kit comes with its own stainless steel installation hardware, to make fitting it yourself that much easier. A container of high-temperature brake lubricant is also included with the price. There is also a sixty day warranty—which is nice, but a lot of options on the market offer more, like this similar (though not quite as high-performance) Detroit Axle Brake Kit.

Pros

Good price
High performance
Quality materials

Cons

Only 60 day warranty
Pads not as reliable quality as rotor

2. Best Premium Brakes: Power Stop K6268-36 Z36 Truck and Tow Brake Kit

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Why we like it: Another solid Power Stop kit, this product may be pricey but provides all the stopping power you need for a heavy vehicle.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Position: Front or rear
Material: Carbon-fiber ceramicRotor: Drilled, slotted
Weight: 54.8 pounds
This PowerStop product is brake kit for both front and rear replacement, specially made to handle heavy vehicles and loads. As with other Power Stop kits, these brake components are packed with features that boost performance.
It’s worth noting that this is a full replacement kit, so it comes at a hefty price tag. This may be attractive if you want to upgrade all four of your brakes, or if you just want a few spares that may come in handy.
Slotted and cross-drilled, the rotors are machined to vent gas and clear debris from the friction surface, keeping your brake performance consistently smooth when you press the pedal. They also provide the additional bite that’s particularly important when it comes to stopping a large car or truck. The last thing you need when towing a large load down-hill are slow or unresponsive brakes.
Unfortunately, it is also worth noting that under long-term, heavy use these rotors have been rarely known to warp before their natural lifespan. It is always worth checking your brakes regularly to assess their health.
The brake pads are made of Power Stop’s proprietary carbon-fiber ceramic compound, which they say creates a larger amount of friction when it’s needed, as compared to other materials. This is also in addition to the benefits of quieter brakes and a considerably smaller amount of dust created.
A few extras come with the purchase. Steel installation hardware allows for more manageable fitting, and high-temperature brake lubricant keeps things moving.

Pros

Suited for large vehicles and heavy loads
Rotors are slotted and drilled for increased performance
Small extras make installation easier

Cons

Rotors have been known to warp prematurely
Premium price

3. Best Budget Brakes: Autospecialty KOE2069 OE Replacement Rear Brake Kit

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Why we like it: This is one of the cheapest options on the market, while being reassuringly high quality. It may skimp on price, but performs perfectly well for the everyday driver.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Position: Rear
Material: Cast iron, ceramic pads
Rotors: Standard
Weight: 57.1 Pounds
Autospecialty does it again with another basic product that delivers on performance and quality, while skimping on the optional extras that add dollars to the cost. We have chosen this as our top budget pick for a reason – you just can’t beat the price, compared to other options.
This particular kit only offers a single pair of replacement pads and rotors, specifically for the rear wheels of the vehicle. This is a major reason why the price is so agreeable, and you should be aware that you may need to search for a front kit also if all four of your brakes need replacing. We have also reviewed a four-pack kit from the same company, which may be of interest to you if this is the case.
The rotors are predictably blank, with no extra features. This is perfectly serviceable for normal driving, though will not dissipate heat as well as other products. A shorter lifespan can be the result, due to premature warping, though this is not guaranteed.
Like other Autospecialty products, this kit is shipped with ceramic brake pads. Widely-regarded as the most desirable material for this purpose, this is a bonus in such a reasonably priced kit and helps with the generation of less noise and dust.
Along with the purchase comes the installation hardware you need to get the brakes fitted, and a bottle of high-temperature brake lube.

Pros

Unbeatable price
Reliable performance quality
Ceramic brake pads

Cons

Unattractive appearance
Not suited for heavy loads

4. Best Full Brake Set: Power Stop K2164 Front & Rear Brake Kit

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Why we like it: A four-pack of Power Stop’s quality brakes, this kit is great for everyday driving and looks good while doing its job.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Position: Front and rear
Material: Cast iron, ceramic pads
Rotor: Drilled, slotted
Weight: 60 pounds
Power Stop continues to show its dominance in the market of car brake kits with another high-quality product. This one is similar to other Power Stop kits on this list, though it has some differences that make it worth its own mention.
With this product you’re getting the usual quality from this manufacturer, though this time in both front and rear replacements. That’s four rotors and eight brake pads, for a full replacement, or part replacement with spares.
The rotors are cross-drilled and slotted which, aside from the established benefits of added friction and better heat dissipation, also look great with low-profile tires or the right rims that can show them off. With an anti-rust and anti-corrosion zinc plating, they are guaranteed to stay looking good, too, under normal conditions. In regions of heavy weather, however, you may want to consider something more heavy-duty like this Detroit Axle set.
Unsurprisingly this product also comes with Power Stop’s specially-designed, carbon-fiber ceramic brake pads. This equates to whisper-quiet braking and less dust, which can prolong the lifespan of your components.
This product comes at a premium price, however this is still reasonable considering the amount of hardware you are getting for the purchase. Installation hardware is also included, along with the standard container of high-temperature brake lubricant.

Pros

Performs well in everyday driving
Looks great when used as a matching set
Four-pack provides extra value

Cons

Rotors sometimes known to rust in regions of persistent heavy weather

5. Best OEM Brake Kit: Autospecialty KOE2010 OE Replacement Brake Kit

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Why we like it: This is a basic kit with a price to match, while not skimping on performance quality. If you need something that works well and won’t break the bank, give this a look.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Position: Front and rear
Materials: Cast iron, ceramic pads
Rotor: Standard
Weight: 83.6 pounds
Autospecialty specializes in no-frills brake kits for those who are looking for a quick and budget replacement without the hassle. It is worth noting that this company is also part of the market-leading Power Stop family, which is a reassuring sign of quality.
This kit comes with a full set of four brakes for a complete replacement of front and rear rotors and pads. These are known as stock replacements and are similar to the style of brakes fitted in vehicles coming straight out of the factory. If you’re looking for a rear replacement only, our top budget pick is worth checking out, as it is made by the same company for a similarly attractive price.
Keeping with the ‘no-frills’ aspect of the product, the rotors are blank. This means that, while they perform their function perfectly well, they lack some of the premium features of other brands. This should not be an issue for everyday driving.
While the rotor may be basic, the pads, however, are ceramic and that comes with the benefit of lower dust and less noise compared to pads of other materials. A dual layer of rubberized shims also help to keep things quiet, padding the space between the pads and the calipers to prevent rattling.
Additionally, this kit comes with a few extra goodies to make life easier. Namely, a container of brake lube and some installation hardware – everything you need to get the replacement job done.

Pros

Simple and basic while not compromising quality
Very reasonable price
Ceramic pads are a bonus in an otherwise basic set

Cons

Rotors lack premium features that would increase performance
Unattractive aesthetic

6. Best OEM Brake Rotors: ACDelco 18A1705 Professional Front Disc Brake Rotor

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Why we like it: This simple product by ACDelco is built to OEM specifications so you can be assured of a very reliable level of quality and lifespan.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Position: Front
Material: Cast iron
Rotor: Standard
Weight: 26 pounds
As basic as it gets, ACDelco specializes in Original Equipment Manufacturer, or OEM, components that have the build quality of parts that come with your car straight out of the factory. If you’re not concerned with all the features and extras on offer from more premium brands, you can save yourself some dollars with this product and other products from the same company.
If you’re curious to read more about the concept of OEM components, we have covered the issue in our guide below.
ACDelco does not offer brake kits, only discrete components, and this is no exception. With this purchase you will receive only a single brake rotor suited for the front wheel of your car. As we may have mentioned, if you are making a replacement it is recommended to do so as an axle pair to avoid uneven wearing. As such, you may want to buy a second rotor to match. You’ll also need to pair it with some brake pads if you’re replacing those too.
A blank rotor, this is lacking in premium features such as slots and cross-drilled holes that would increase performance. To some this is a drawback, but the component quality is reassuringly high, meeting OE material standards, and it is perfectly suited to regular use over a long period.
This part comes with no extras, as may be expected, which helps keep it a solid budget pick.

Pros

Highly tested for quality
Meets OE material standards
Basic price for a quality product

Cons

Buying multiple results in higher price compared to other bundled kits

7. Brakes with the Best Warranty: Detroit Axle – Front and Rear Drilled and Slotted Disc Brake Kit

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Why we like it: Detroit Axle is very reliable on quality, and this kit is no exception. Their extended warranty is a testament to its long-term performance.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Position: Front and rear
Materials: Cast iron, ceramic pads
Rotors: Drilled, slotted
Weight: Not provided by manufacturer
Detroit Axle makes high-quality kits for specific models of vehicle. It is worth bearing this in mind as most kits they offer have limited application. You are very much recommended to use the Amazon widget to see if this is the right product for you. If not, you may want to consider browsing for Detroit Axle products applicable to your car. The reliable quality of this brand is worth chasing.
With that out of the way, this kit is a full replacement, offering pads and rotors for both front and rear wheels.
As with the majority of the products on this list, the rotors are cross-drilled and slotted. This gives up to 20% better braking performance as compared to standard, smooth rotors. Better ‘bite’, and significantly improved dissipation of heat come with this, which helps extend the lifespan of the component.
Unfortunately, with a focus squarely on function, this rotor is not particularly attractive in appearance, which may be an issue to some—those who value aesthetics as well as function might want to consider the attractive Platinum Hart Drilled and Slot Brake Kit.
The brake pads are ceramic, which the manufacturer guarantees is 0% metallic composition. This is a benefit for performance, resulting in a good amount of friction while also being very quiet, as compared to metallic pads. A downside, however, is that it has been known for these pads to generate a significant amount of dust, which looks unsightly on attractive wheel rims.
As far as extras go, this product comes with all the hardware you need for installation, along with a canister of brake cleaner and a container of brake fluid. While this may not tip the balance they are nonetheless attractive additions that will be useful. The best extra here is the 10-year warranty—and the peace of mind that comes with knowing these brakes are built well enough for the manufacturer to offer such generous coverage.

Pros

Focus on function over form promotes performance
Great heat dissipation compared to other products
Extended warranty

Cons

Pads can generate a lot of dust
Rotors are plain in appearance

8. Best Looking Brakes: Platinum Hart Drilled and Slot Brake Kit

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Why we like it: A flashy product that doesn’t compromise on performance, you would be hard-pressed to find another kit that looks this good at this price.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Position: Front and rear
Material: Cast iron, ceramic pads
Rotors: Drilled, slotted
Weight: 96 pounds
Hart Brakes are a company that deals in attractive brake kits that perform just as great as they look. The company claims that performance brakes are not only for the race track. A bold statement, and one they strive to deliver on with this particular product.
This is a twelve-piece kit, containing four rotors and eight brake pads. It’s not often that all four brakes will need replacing at the same time, but you might want to consider it if you’re looking for a matching aesthetic. These rotors look great, with an eye-catching silver finish. Pair with suitably flashy rims for that high-performance appearance.
The rotors have all the features that are indicative of quality. They are cross-drilled and diamond slotted for proper air ventilation and extra friction, increasing overall performance. The signature diamond slots also help to prevent brake pad glazing in wet weather, ensuring safe operation at all times. Finally, they are coated with silver zinc plating to stave off rust and corrosion.
Made of ceramic material, the brake pads are otherwise not as high quality as the rotor. Don’t get us wrong, they are perfectly serviceable for long-term, everyday use, but they are known to shed more dust than other products of the same type. For a product that prioritizes its good looks, this can certainly be seen as a downside.
Brake hardware, used when fitting, comes as part of the purchase, along with a bottle of brake fluid to keep things topped up.
Overall, this is a quality product and a good choice if the racing aesthetic is what you’re after.

Pros

Flashy looks that are bound to get attention.
Diamond slots that help performance in wet weather
Very reasonable price for a pack of four replacements

Cons

Brake pads generate more dust than other options

9. Most Reliable Brakes: Complete Kit R1 Concepts eLine Drill/Slot Brake Kit

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Why we like it: This is an extremely reliable product from a company that focuses on performance and efficiency. Additional rotor features make this kit stand out.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Position: Front and rear
Material: Cast iron, ceramic pads
Rotors: Drilled, slotted
Weight: 75.8 Pounds
An established name in the market when it comes to brakes and braking hardware, R1 Concepts is a reliable choice whether you’re looking for a replacement or an upgrade. The products they offer tend to be flashier than other options, with a focus on performance, which may be attractive to discerning drivers.
As the title suggests, this is a complete kit featuring four rotors and eight brake pads. As with other twelve-piece kits, this can be a full replacement or offer a few spares for future fitting. It’s always good practice to replace axle pairs at the same time, but you may also want to consider a total replacement for a matching set and peace of mind.
Featuring both diamond slots and cross-drilled holes, these rotors are built with performance in mind. The standard increases to friction and reliability are there, along with some extras that boost component health and longevity. The drilled holes are chamfered, which will help prevent cracking, and the diamond tips on the slots are an indicator for rotor replacement. When the tips are gone, you should consider an upgrade.
The main criticism of this product is in the quality of the rotor anti-corrosion plating. While looking great out of the box, the rotors have been known to rust at the edges after some use in heavy weather. This is a shame considering how attractive they are when new. We recommend this product as an alternative if you’re particularly interested in aesthetics.
That aside, this is otherwise a very reliable kit in terms of performance and quality. If looks are secondary to your concerns there is no reason not to consider this product.

Pros

Reliable, high-performance design
Rotor features offer handy, additional functions
Good price for content

Cons

Attractive design sometimes let down by premature rust

10. Atmansta QPD10051 Front Brake Kit

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Why we like it: While a bare-bones kit with few extras this product still offers good performance and an attractive design.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Position: Front
Material: Cast iron, ceramic pads
Rotors: Drilled, slotted
Weight: 58.7 Pounds
A lesser-known brand in the field of braking and brake kits, Atmansta nonetheless offers a quality product that’s reasonably priced compared to its peers. A somewhat basic kit, there are no additional extras besides the main hardware, though the rotors are generously featured.
This product includes a single pair of rotors and four brake pads to match. This provides a replacement for both front brakes. Of course, as a partial kit, this is the main reason for the agreeable price. If you need a full replacement we recommend either this product by Power Stop or, at a lower budget, this product by Autospecialty.
The rest of this kit may be fairly ‘no-frills’, but the rotors have all the hallmarks of quality. Both slotted and cross-drilled they offer increased performance when compared to blank components. This means better stopping power and heat dissipation, which the discerning driver will appreciate, as it will lead to safer operation and longer life. They are also two-tone, which may provide a more striking appearance with the right rims.
As a bonus the pads supplied are ceramic, which reduces braking noise but in this case also means a little more dust. If this is an issue you may want to look to match the rotors of this kit with another set of brake pads that suit your needs better.
As stated, this kit comes with none of the handy extras that other products offer, but to some that may be a benefit. Why pay more for items you don’t need?

Pros

Good price for fully-featured rotors
Attractive two-tone design
Great stopping power

Cons

Lacking in useful extras
Pads generate more dust compared to other brands

Guide to Buying the Best Brake Components

Now that you’ve seen a selection of some of the finest brake kits and components on the market today, you may still have some questions to ask before making the decision. Here we aim to fill you in on some of the major issues and topics that are important to you when searching for the right part.
Brake Types
In the vast majority of cases there are two main brake types on the market today:
Disc brakes are, by far, the most common. The rotor, or brake disc, is attached to the main body of the wheel and is the rotating portion of the brake against which the second component, the brake pads, are applied. Attached to a set of calipers, the brake pads are squeezed against the rotor to create the friction needed to slow the wheel. Almost all modern vehicles use this type of brake.
Drum brakes are an older style of braking system that are not seen quite so often. They operate by using a set of pads that press outwards on the internal surface of a drum mounted on the wheel. These are most commonly seen in heavy-duty vehicles such as trucks, and have their own advantages, but for the most part have been overtaken by the more modern and popular disc brake.
Component Materials
A vital aspect to your brake components are the materials of which they are comprised, and shouldn’t be overlooked while searching for the right part.
Brake pads are arguably the part you should choose most carefully, as they tend to have a shorter lifespan so picking the right one can save you money in the long run. They come in a number of material compositions, each with their own advantages.
Semi-metallic pads are the most common, and come with the least cost. They are comprised of 30-60% metallic materials, with premium brands containing higher amounts. They are most suited for everyday driving as they are resilient and long-lasting, but can also be noisy compared to other options.
Organic pads are eco-friendly and perform well, though are not as durable compared to other materials and need replacing more often. They are recommended for use in lightweight vehicles and lighter road conditions where heavy braking isn’t an issue.
Ceramic pads are generally more expensive, offering a significant performance boost. They are considered best for high-performance vehicles, though also reduce brake noise, which can be attractive in normal driving conditions.
Rotors also come in a variety of material types.
Cast iron is the most common variety, and what you will see in the majority of rotors on the market. This is usually the cheapest and the heaviest option, as well as being most prone to corrosion. That said, it is certainly up to the task of day-to-day driving and has an acceptably long life span.
Steel, or layered steel, is an uncommon alternative to iron that is favored for its lighter weight and better heat dissipation. It is not as readily suited to everyday driving, however, as it is comparatively less durable and prone to warping under heavy use.
Ceramic rotors are even rarer still, but many premium options use them. They offer unbeatable performance in terms of heat dissipation and mechanical strength, but due to their high cost they are often reserved for suitably high-performance vehicles.
Rotor Features
Disc brake rotors can be machined in a number of different ways, creating a variety of options that each have their own properties. This can confer advantages but often add to the price of the part.
A blank, or smooth, rotor is generally the most common and is found on vehicles straight out of the factory. It has no special features, presenting only a smooth friction surface for the brake pads to clamp down on. While they serve their purpose perfectly well they do not dissipate heat or generate friction as well other types and, as such, can be prone to premature warping or wear-down.
Cross-drilled rotors are drilled with holes across their surface, which allows heat to dissipate more efficiently. They also increase braking performance in wet weather by allowing water to escape the friction surface.
Slotted rotors feature ‘slots’ or lines drilled into the surface of the disc. They serve a similar purpose to cross-drilled rotors, and also increases stopping power by allowing the pads to clamp with increased friction.
Cross-drilled holes and slots are often combined, as can be seen in many of the products on our list. This not only combines their advantages but also looks attractive to those who want a high-performance aesthetic. This product by Hart Brakes is a good example.
Brake Maintenance
Proper brake maintenance is vital to your continued safety while using your vehicle, so it is worth periodically taking the time to make sure your components are in good condition.
There are often built-in measures that will bring your attention to deteriorating brake pads. Small prongs or built-in sensors will squeal when braking, when the pads have worn past an acceptable level. This indicates that a replacement is in order.
Rotors are not quite so conveniently assessed, and instead it’s recommended that regular sight-checks are performed by a professional. You should generally consider replacing them after 30,000 to 70,000 miles, depending on your everyday driving conditions.
Rotor Tuning
‘Turning’ your rotors is also an option. This is the process by which rotors are repaired and maintained by machining off the top layer of the friction surface. This should be done approximately every second time you change your brake pads, but some damage can’t be repaired by turning and a replacement will be necessary. Your mechanic can advise here.
For both rotors and brake pads it is recommended that you replace axle pairs together, that is both wheels on the front or rear, to prevent uneven wearing. Failing to do so can result in uneven braking power and a tendency for the car to pull slightly in one direction.
You should also make the effort to check your brake fluid levels and quality periodically. In some cars, if your brake fluid is low the brake light will remain lit as an indicator. It is worth reading your vehicle manual, however, as some models differ.
Additionally, if your brake fluid is milky it indicates water has penetrated the system, and a full draining and replacement is needed. We recommend checking out this fluid by Bosch, which performs well and comes at an agreeable price.
Yourmechanic.com has a handy guide here on how often you should look at replacing your brakes.
Car Brake FAQ
Why do my brakes squeak or squeal when I step on the pedal?
This is one of the most common issues that plagues drivers when using their brakes and can be indicative of a few different problems. If you’re lucky it may be as simple as rust or debris being scraped off the friction surface and should stop after a few applications of the brake. However, if the sound is persistent it is a sign your brakes need attention.
As we’ve explained earlier, most brake pads are made with built-in indicators that let you know they are reaching the end of their lifespan by emitting a squealing noise when used. This may not always be the case, however, and noisy brakes can indicate a number of different problems such as a warped rotor. As such, it is good practice to take your car to a qualified mechanic to assess the health of your brakes.
My brakes judder when I use them. Why?
Brake judder is a vibration felt through the steering and suspension when the brakes are applied. This isn’t normal and there are a number of different causes, such as rotor warping, that will usually require a trip to your mechanic.
Wagner has a very informative article here that can help you diagnose the problem yourself.
What is OEM and why is it important?
This term crops up quite often when it comes to browsing auto parts. It means ‘Original Equipment Manufacturer’, which are the components your car was fitted with on the production line where it was made. The term can be used to describe parts created and endorsed by your car’s original manufacturer, or it can be used to designate components as built to OE standards. This means that there will be no modification needed to the part before installation, and you can be sure it will fit and operate correctly.
If you are interested in quality OEM parts we recommend looking at this product from ACDelco or this product from Autospecialty.
A full and detailed explanation of this concept, and the terms surrounding it, can be found here if you want to know more.
Why are my brakes wearing down so quickly?
Do you find that you’re replacing your brake pads far more often than you think you should? There could be a few reasons for this, though the major culprit will be your driving habits. If you commute or drive regularly in congested conditions your pads will wear far more quickly compared to drivers on clear roads. It is also worth noting that your front pads will naturally wear faster than the rear, as the front brakes handle a lot more weight.
You can normally expect to replace your pads anywhere between 25,000 to 70,000 miles, but there are a few things you can do to make that number as high as possible.
First and foremost, you need to be aware of your braking habits. Braking slowly, and giving yourself plenty of time to stop will wear your brakes less in the long run. Driving at lower speeds in general will help with that. Additionally, try to reduce the weight of your vehicle by avoiding heavy loads. Semi-regular cleaning can also help by spraying your rotors when you wash the car. This will get rid of any debris that might result in faster wear.
If you’re looking for a set of brakes that won’t wear down for years, you can’t beat this kit from Detroit Axle — which also have a 10-year warranty, so if they do stop working any sooner, you’ll be covered.
Is breaking in my brakes important? How do I do it?
‘Breaking in’ your brakes is the process by which new brakes are used and worn in to increase their performance. The short answer is yes, this is important to do. It is often done by your mechanic during a test drive after fitting your brakes, but not always.
This is particularly worth attention if you are replacing your pads, but not your rotors. After an extended period of use rotors can develop uneven grooves and ridges. When you upgrade to new pads there will not be 100% contact on the friction surface due to these irregularities.
It is recommended to take the car to a clear stretch of road, drive at 40 mph and then, every 100 yards or so, brake to 20 mph. It should not take more than a few miles and you will notice an improvement in stopping power as you proceed.
Safe Driving
We’ve come to the end of our guide and hopefully you now have enough to be able to make an informed decision on your purchase. Our list contains some of the top products on the market today as well as a selection of some hard-to-find gems, so you can be confident you’ll find something suited to your needs.
Whatever you choose, whether directly from our selection or just by taking inspiration, we hope it serves you well for many miles out on the open road. Until next time – safe driving. More

Safety is always the priority when you take your car on the road, and having a clean windshield is a big part of that.
Think about a situation where you’re driving down the highway in the rain, and a big truck passes you. This passing vehicle sprays dirty water and mud onto your windshield, making it difficult for you to see. You turn the wipers on, only to have the dirt and mud spread and streak across the windshield, exacerbating the problem.
Of course, the next step is to pull on the lever that releases the windshield washer fluid, which will clean your windshield and restore your view of the road, allowing you to see again. You won’t want to take any risks with a poorly performing product in this situation, which is why we’re looking at the top windshield washer fluids available today.

Things to Consider When Buying Windshield Washer Fluid
Windshield washer fluid is a simple product to use because all you have to do is pop your hood and look for the reservoir featuring a symbol with a windshield wiper in mid-spray. The cap might also say, “Washer Fluid Only.” If you’re unsure about where your fluid goes, consult your owner’s manual.
Filling the reservoir is as simple as popping the cap, opening the bottle, mixing the fluid if necessary, and carefully pouring the product into the car.
Once the fluid is in the reservoir, it will come out of a nozzle under your windshield wipers when you pull or push the proper lever. Keep in mind that these products come in various colors, but they’ll appear mostly clear when they touch your windshield.
Get to know the various products on the market before purchasing to ensure you end up with the right windshield washer fluid to meet your needs.
Does it Work?
First and foremost, you’ll want a windshield washer fluid that does an excellent job of cleaning and will improve your visibility when you need it the most. The best products on the market cut right through mud and dirt, ensuring that debris doesn’t impede your vision for long.
You could also end up with bugs all over your windshield in the summer or experience ice buildup in the winter, both of which could make it difficult to see. Luckily, there are specialized products that address these potential issues.
Types of Windshield Washer Fluid
There are three different types of windshield washer fluid from which to choose: summer, winter, and all-season. Your selection will depend on your location, your climate, and your preferences.
Summer Windshield Washer Fluid
Summer windshield washer fluid often provides the best cleaning action because it’s pure detergent without de-icer diluting the soap. Bug wash is a type of summer windshield washer fluid that does an even better job of loosening stuck-on debris, with the catch being that it costs a bit more than a basic summertime product.
Winter Windshield Washer Fluid
Winter windshield washer fluid usually contains methanol and ethylene glycol. Since you won’t run into as many bugs in the colder months, it doesn’t need the same foaming action as a bug wash, and can instead focus on eliminating winter driving problems like frost and ice.
All-Season Windshield Washer Fluid
Perhaps the most popular type of windshield washer fluid on the market is all-season, which works in most climates, even when the weather gets cold. All-season washer fluid can combine a bug wash with de-icer, providing the best of both worlds for your car. It does tend to cost more than seasonal options, however, and mixing usually means it’s slightly less effective.
Temperature Rating
Before making your purchase, you’ll want to look at the product’s temperature rating to ensure you’re selecting an item that’s right for your climate.
Generally, bug wash and other summer-use products are only usable to 32° Fahrenheit, while all-season products, like Prestone Deluxe 3-in-1 Windshield Washer Fluid, are functional down to -27° Fahrenheit. It’s possible to find winter windshield washer fluids, notably Nextzett Anti-Frost, that work down to -76° Fahrenheit, as well.
Water Repellent
Some higher-end windshield washer fluids will leave a layer of water repellent behind when you use them. Typically, leaving residue after use would be a bad thing, but in this case, it’s a positive. That’s because the rain will bead on the windshield, rather than streak across it after use.
The result is that you’ll use your wipers less and have a more transparent windshield when it rains. If you live in a rainy climate, investing in a product with a water repellent will make it easy to drive during a downpour.
Concentration Level
A final thing to consider when buying windshield washer fluid is its concentration level. Some products are pre-mixed and ready to pour while others come as a concentrate that you’ll have to add to some water.
Highly-concentrated products give you more bang for your buck and allow you to determine the product’s strength. You can mix less water if you want more cleaning power or more if you want the bottle to last longer.
On the other hand, concentrated fluids add an additional step for you. You’ll have to measure the correct amount of product and mix it with water. The job isn’t overly tricky, but does require some effort and care on your part.
Making Your Choice
As you can see, you’ll have some choices to make when selecting a windshield washer fluid, as the time of year, your community’s weather patterns, and your comfort level with mixing a detergent all factor into your decision.
Keep reading to learn which windshield washer fluid will work best for you.

Top 10 Best Windshield Washer Fluids 2020

1. Best Overall Windshield Washer Fluid: Prestone Deluxe 3-in-1 Windshield Washer Fluid

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Why we like it: Prestone Deluxe 3-in-1 Windshield Washer Fluid works in all climates, so you won’t have to worry about its effectiveness as the seasons change.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Low-temperature rating: -27° Fahrenheit
Water repellent: Yes
Ready-to-use: Yes
Prestone Deluxe 3-in-1 Windshield Washer Fluid does it all, making it an excellent choice for most locations throughout the country. This product is a bug wash, window cleaner, and cold-weather washer fluid in one, so you don’t have to worry about changing to a winter fluid unless it gets extremely cold where you live.
Product Use
This product doesn’t require any mixing and will remove everything from dust and dirt to ice and snow from your windshield. It also has water-repelling technology, so if you live in an area with a lot of rain, it will prevent water from limiting your visibility.
One drawback is that while the product is for use in temperatures as low as -27° Fahrenheit, it won’t immediately melt all of the ice on your windshield and can even freeze in temperatures above zero degrees. If you live in a frigid climate, a specialized winter fluid is a better bet.
Verdict
Overall, Prestone Deluxe 3-in-1 Windshield Washer Fluid is one of the most straightforward detergents to use because it works just as well in 90° weather as it does below freezing. While you might want to save some money with a designated bug wash if you live in a warm climate, and you might invest in a winterized fluid if you live in the extreme cold, this product provides all-around protection for most drivers.

Pros

Works in warm and cold weather
Requires no mixing
Removes ice
Does everything well

Cons

Not for extreme cold
More expensive than seasonal products

2. Best Budget Windshield Washer Fluid: Prestone Bug Wash Windshield Washer Fluid

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Why we like it: Prestone Bug Wash Windshield Washer Fluid does an outstanding job of removing bugs and other stuck-on debris from your windshield.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Low-temperature rating: 32° Fahrenheit
Water repellent: Yes
Ready-to-use: Yes
Prestone Bug Wash Windshield Washer Fluid is a top choice during the warmer months because it has a power cleaner that easily cuts through stuck-on bugs, grime, tree sap, and bird droppings. The product also repels water, making it an excellent option if you live in a rainy climate.
Product Use
This product lathers up nicely and quickly removes any debris that’s stuck to your windshield. After using it once, you’ll also notice that bugs come off even easier during subsequent washes because it leaves a layer of bug-stopper behind.
The problems with Prestone Bug Wash Windshield Washer Fluid are that it has a strong odor that you can even notice inside the vehicle and doesn’t work in freezing temperatures. As a result, you’ll have to buy a winterized product if temperatures drop below freezing in your area.
Verdict
Prestone Bug Wash Windshield Washer Fluid comes pre-mixed and will ensure that your windshield is clean throughout the spring, summer, and fall. Those who deal with ice and snow in the winter should change to a different detergent before the temperatures drop, but everyone else can use this fluid throughout the year.

Pros

Outstanding cleaning action
Leaves a bug stopping residue
Removes bird droppings without scrubbing

Cons

Freezes in cold weather
Strong odor

3. Best Premium Windshield Washer Fluid: Nextzett Kristall Klar Washer Fluid

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Why we like it: Nextzett Kristall Klar Washer Fluid is concentrated so you can mix it yourself and make it as strong as you wish.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Low-temperature rating: 32° Fahrenheit
Water repellent: No
Ready-to-use: No
Nextzett Kristall Klar Washer Fluid is a concentrated product, so one 8.5-fluid-ounce bottle creates 12 gallons of windshield washer fluid. Once you’ve mixed the product, you’ll see that it does an excellent job of removing dirt and bugs, while its included water softener prevents mineral buildup from occurring in your spray jets.
Product Use
Since Nextzett Kristall Klar Washer Fluid isn’t ready-to-use right from the bottle, you’ll have to mix it with water before putting it in your car. The result is that you’ll get a lot of washer fluid for your money, as a small bottle creates enough detergent to last you for years. This product is also free from ammonia and phosphates, so it won’t hurt your vehicle’s paint or rubber.
As with other concentrates, you run the risk of making a mistake while mixing Nextzett Kristall Klar Washer Fluid, so make sure you’re mindful of the ratios. Also keep in mind that this product is only for warm-temperature use.
Verdict
If you’re looking for a concentrated bug wash that will create multiple jugs of detergent from a small bottle of product, Nextzett Kristall Klar Washer Fluid is an option worth considering. Remember, however, that you’ll have to mix it yourself, so it’s not the best choice for leaving in your car or if you’re not confident with handling that job yourself.

Pros

Cleans bugs and grime
A little bit goes a long way
Prevents hard water buildup in the system

Cons

Only for warm weather
You have to mix it yourself

4. Best Environmentally-Friendly Windshield Washer Fluid: Qwix Mix Biodegradable Windshield Washer Fluid Concentrate

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Why we like it: One bottle of Qwix Mix Biodegradable Windshield Washer Fluid Concentrate makes 32 gallons of washer fluid, and its biodegradable properties ensure that it naturally breaks down.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Low-temperature rating: 32° Fahrenheit
Water repellent: No
Ready-to-use: No
Qwix Mix Biodegradable Windshield Washer Fluid Concentrate is a highly-concentrated liquid that turns eight fluid ounces of concentrate into 32 gallons of detergent. This product is for use in the summer and does an outstanding job of cleaning dirt and grime, although it might struggle to remove stuck-on bugs.
Product Use
You’ll have to mix Qwix Mix Biodegradable Windshield Washer Fluid Concentrate with water yourself. Still, the good news is that the product has a build-in measurement apparatus that provides you with accurate results. The product is biodegradable and has only three ingredients (soap, water, and dye), making it more environmentally friendly than some other products on the market.
Keep in mind that this product will quickly freeze once temperatures drop because of its basic ingredients. It doesn’t repel water either, so you might end up using excess amounts on rainy days.
Verdict
Suppose you’re looking for a simple product that you can customize to various potencies and will do an admirable job of cleaning debris from your windshield. In that case, Qwix Mix Biodegradable Windshield Washer Fluid Concentrate is worth a shot. If you want a premium product that repels water or works in the winter, however, you’ll want to look elsewhere.

Pros

Excellent value
Biodegradable and environmentally friendly
Comes with a measuring device

Cons

Will freeze
Doesn’t repel water

5. Best Windshield Washer Fluid For Extreme Cold: Nextzett Anti-Frost Winter Windshield Washer Fluid

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Why we like it: Nextzett Anti-Frost Winter Windshield Washer Fluid can work even in the coldest weather you’ll experience anywhere in the United States.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Low-temperature rating: -76° Fahrenheit
Water repellent: No
Ready-to-use: Yes
Nextzett Anti-Frost Winter Windshield Washer Fluid provides cold-weather coverage in temperatures reaching as low as -76° Fahrenheit, making it one of the best anti-freeze washer fluids on the market. For reference, the lowest temperature ever recorded in the contiguous United States is -70° Fahrenheit and the country’s lowest temperature ever is -80° Fahrenheit. Unless you end up in Northern Alaska in the middle of January, you should be fine when using this washer fluid.
The product is also free from toxic methanol, as it’s derived from 100% biodegradable ethanol.
Product Use
You can use Nextzett Anti-Frost Winter Windshield Washer Fluid in any weather, although it’s most useful when temperatures drop below freezing. Keep in mind that how you use this washer fluid depends on the temperatures where you live. If you live in a frigid environment, you can use this washer fluid without diluting it. In that case, it will work down to -76° Fahrenheit.
Those who live in climates that reach lows of about -6° Fahrenheit can save some money by diluting the product with water at a 1:1 ratio. The warmer the weather, the more water you can add. The washer fluid leaves an anti-ice residue behind, as well, making it easier to clear your windshield during subsequent applications.
The fact that you might have to mix this product is a concern because the ratio that you require could change with the season. For example, you might mix it at a 2:1 water-to-detergent ratio for the summer, but that mixture won’t work in the winter.
It’s best to use this product in an empty reservoir to ensure you don’t end up with too much water in your mixture.
Verdict
When winter comes, you can be confident that Nextzett Anti-Frost Winter Windshield Washer Fluid will keep your windshield free from snow and ice. No other product on the market protects at such low temperatures, making this a top choice for those in freezing climates. At the same time, those living in more moderate climates might look elsewhere for an easier-to-use windshield washer.

Pros

Works at -76° Fahrenheit
Non-toxic formula
Creates anti-freeze barrier

Cons

Not the best in the summer
You might have to mix it

6. Best Windshield Washer Fluid For Summer: Sonax Clear View Windshield Washer

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Why we like it: Sonax Clear View Windshield Washer is an inexpensive option that cleans dirt and grime at above-freezing temperatures.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Low-temperature rating: 32° Fahrenheit
Water repellent: No
Ready-to-use: No
Sonax Clear View Windshield Washer is a basic product that leaves windshields clean and streak-free. It’s also concentrated, so its 8.45-ounce bottle creates six gallons of fluid when you mix it with water. The formula is phosphate-free and has a pleasant scent.
Product Use
The good news is that, even when diluted, Sonax Clear View Windshield Washer takes care of oil, bugs, grime, and silicone, all of which can make their way into your windshield when driving. And since each small bottle is under $12, you’ll find excellent value when purchasing, although you’ll have to mix it up yourself.
However, you should know that this product doesn’t repel water and will freeze quickly at colder temperatures. Therefore, it works best in a climate without cold weather or excess precipitation.
Verdict
Sonax Clear View Windshield Washer is a reliable product that will clean your windshield when the weather is ideal. However, if you are in a climate with heavy rains or extreme cold, you’re better off going with a specialized washer fluid that better addresses your needs.

Pros

Inexpensive
Smells nice
Removes most debris

Cons

Doesn’t repel water
Not for freezing temperatures

7. Best Windshield Washer Fluid For Winter: Prestone De-Icer Windshield Washer Fluid

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Why we like it: Prestone De-Icer Windshield Washer Fluid melts ice and frost quickly when temperatures drop.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Low-temperature rating: -27° Fahrenheit
Water repellent: No
Ready-to-use: Yes
If you’re going with different windshield washer fluids for summer and winter, Prestone De-Icer Windshield Washer Fluid is an excellent product to consider. This detergent performs to the same low temperatures as Prestone Deluxe 3-in-1 Windshield Washer Fluid and works even faster to remove ice, snow, and frost thanks to its higher methanol content.
Product Use
Prestone De-Icer Windshield Washer Fluid is a powerful formula that will address winter-related problems for your windshield in a hurry. The detergent’s make-up takes ice and frost into consideration, ensuring it can clear your windshield faster in extreme cold than many other products.
You can also use this windshield washer fluid in the summer, although you’ll notice a difference between it and summer-specific detergents. That’s Prestone De-Icer Windshield Washer Fluid isn’t a bug wash and doesn’t repel water. As a result, it struggles to generate the same cleaning power as other items on this list, limiting its warm weather effectiveness.
Verdict
If you’re doing a fair amount of winter driving this year, Prestone De-Icer Windshield Washer Fluid is worth throwing into your car because it’s inexpensive and does an excellent job of keeping ice and frost off your windshield when it’s cold. For more moderate climates or during the summer months, consider alternative options.

Pros

Works well in the cold
Removes ice and frost
Inexpensive

Cons

Doesn’t repel water
Not a bug wash

8. Best Windshield Washer Fluid Tablet: Wemk Car Windshield Glass Concentrated Clean Washer Tablets

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Why we like it: Wemk Car Windshield Glass Concentrated Clean Washer Tablets are inexpensive and easy to store anywhere in your home or vehicle.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Low-temperature rating: 23° Fahrenheit
Water repellent: No
Ready-to-use: No
Wemk Car Windshield Glass Concentrated Clean Washer Tablets are unique to this list because they are the only tab-based washer fluids. When dissolved in water, the product becomes a detergent that quickly removes dirt and other contaminants from your windshield. The package comes with 30 tablets, each of which makes four liters of fluid, so this product is cost-efficient for car owners, too.
Product Use
Just like the highly-concentrated formulas, you’ll have to mix Wemk Car Windshield Glass Concentrated Clean Washer Tablets with water before using. The good news is that you don’t have to measure anything, as you can just pop a tablet into water. There are two ways of combining the product, as you can either put the tablet in a jug and fill it with water or place the tablet directly in your reservoir and add liquid.
This product is a summer formula that only works to about 23° Fahrenheit. There’s also the chance that it will clog your sprayer jets if it doesn’t dissolve properly, leaving you with a potentially expensive repair to make. You can avoid this issue by pre-mixing the tablet in a jug and making sure it dissolves before adding it to your car.
Verdict
If you’re looking for an inexpensive and convenient alternative to traditional windshield washer fluids, consider Wemk Car Windshield Glass Concentrated Clean Washer Tablets. This detergent is an above-average product that you can keep pretty much anywhere, including in your glove compartment for emergencies. However, the tablets might clog your jets if they don’t dissolve properly, so keep that in mind if you go this direction.

Pros

Inexpensive
Remove dirt efficiently
Easy to store

Cons

Could clog your jets
Doesn’t work in cold temperatures

9. Rain-X Windshield Washer Fluid

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Why we like it: Rain-X Windshield Washer Fluid is a high-end product that’s a bug wash and de-icer in one.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Low-temperature rating: 0° Fahrenheit
Water repellent: Yes
Ready-to-use: Yes
Rain-X Windshield Washer Fluid is in the same class as Prestone Deluxe 3-in-1 Windshield Washer Fluid because it works in cold temperatures, removes bugs efficiently, and has water-repelling technology. Where it falls short is on the price, as it’s significantly more expensive than its competitors without performing better in cold temperatures.
Product Use
Rain-X is a giant in the windshield washer fluid industry, and its all-season formula is one of the best available. This product is ready to go directly into your windshield washer fluid reservoir, and since it works when temperatures drop, there’s no need to switch to a different product in the winter unless you live in an area with extreme lows.
Rain-X Windshield Washer Fluid falls short because it’s not quite as good or as inexpensive as other all-season options like Prestone’s 3-in-1.
Verdict
There’s nothing wrong with Rain-X Windshield Washer Fluid, and if you can find it at a reasonable price, you should have full confidence in its ability. In fact, it’s one of the best windshield washer fluids on the market and will provide you with everything you need from a slightly more expensive option.

Pros

Works in the winter
Protects the windshield
Cleans bugs and other difficult debris

10. Best Windshield Washer Fluid For Fleets: 2010 Products Windshield Washer Fluid – Ultra Concentrate

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Why we like it: One bottle of 2010 Products Windshield Washer Fluid – Ultra Concentrate turns into 55 gallons of high-quality washer fluid.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Low-temperature rating: 36° Fahrenheit
Water repellent: No
Ready-to-use: No
The best thing about 2010 Products Windshield Washer Fluid – Ultra Concentrate is that a 32-ounce bottle makes 55 gallons of fluid. That makes this product perfect if you have a fleet of vehicles, run an auto shop, or have a car dealership. Even if you only have one car, it’s nice to know that one bottle of this product will likely last as long as your automobile does.
Product Use
Setting this product up is as simple as putting two caps full of detergent into a one-gallon jug and then filling it with water. From there, you can replenish your reservoir with this high-end product that cleans bugs, removes grease, and is low in VOCs. Be aware, however, that this windshield washer fluid doesn’t work in cold temperatures.
Verdict
No other product on the market goes as far as 2010 Products Windshield Washer Fluid – Ultra Concentrate because once you buy a bottle of it, you might have enough windshield washer fluid to last the rest of your life. At the same time, you’ll need a different product to use in the winter, and you’ll have to go through the hassle of measuring it into a jug and adding water rather than using it right from the container.

Pros

Highly-concentrated
Washes away bugs

Cons

Only for summer use
Mixing it is a hassle

Guide to Buying the Best Windshield Washer Fluids
You’ll have some choices to make before selecting a windshield washer fluid for purchase, and much of it comes down to your personal preferences. Here’s a bit of additional information to help you along the way.
Bug Wash or All-Season
The differences between a summer bug wash and an all-season option are subtle but will influence which one you ultimately select.
When you go with a bug wash washer fluid, you’re selecting a product with powerful cleaning action that will quickly remove stuck-on debris. These detergents prevent bugs, tree sap, and bird droppings from streaking on your window and causing visibility problems.
All-season wiper fluids can also work well as a bug wash but have the added ability to melt ice and frost from your windshield. They’re also more expensive.
If cold weather is a concern in your area and you’re replenishing your reservoir in the fall or winter, an all-season option is your best bet. Those who live in warmer climates or are filling their cars with windshield washer fluid in the spring or early summer can save some money by choosing a bug wash.
Concentrated or Ready-to-Use
Another decision you’ll have to make is whether to select a highly-concentrated windshield washer fluid or go with a product that’s ready to use when you receive it. Once again, your choice comes down to your personal preference because concentrated fluids generally provide better bang for your buck and allow you to determine how strong a detergent you want.
On the other hand, pre-mixed fluids are more convenient because you can pour them right into the reservoir without measuring or mixing. You also can’t adjust the mixture to meet your needs and will generally cost you more long-term.
Car owners who aren’t scared of a little extra work can surely save some money by purchasing concentrated products, but if you’re willing to pay for convenience, the mixed items are the way to go.
Winterize Your Fluid
Just because you’ve bought a summer windshield washer fluid doesn’t mean you’ll have to use it all up before temperatures drop in the winter. That’s because you can add a de-icer, such as methanol, ethanol, or rubbing alcohol, to your existing detergent to make it freeze-proof.
Some products, such as Qwix Mix Biodegradable Windshield Washer Fluid Concentrate, even have instructions on the package explaining how to winterize the fluid. The chart shows how much de-icer you’ll need to add to your mixture for protection at your desired temperatures. You can also replace some of the fluid with a winter option like Nextzett Anti-Frost to give a little freeze-resistance in a pinch.
Health Warnings
It’s important to remember that many windshield washer fluids contain toxic ingredients that you’ll want to be careful not to ingest.
Products like Prestone De-Icer Windshield Washer Fluid contain methanol and ethylene glycol, both of which can harm people, even in small amounts.
A teaspoon of methanol, for example, can lead to blindness or death, while a tablespoon of ethylene glycol can cause kidney failure or death. Make sure you store any leftover product in a safe place and keep your children and pets away from the fluid.
Related Products
While you’re shopping for windshield washer fluid, consider some other products that are both inexpensive and make a big difference:
Car Wash Kits: Windshield washer will take care of the windscreen, but what’s keeping the rest of your car clean? Consider a kit with different products for different surfaces.
Other Fluids: While you’re topping off your windshield washer fluid, might as well top off your power steering fluid, brake fluid, and change your oil. You’ll be surprised how good it will feel to knock out all those maintenance tasks at once.
Window Tints: Looking to keep that custom windshield clean in both senses of the word? Buy a window tint to add a sleek look to your car.
FAQ
Do you have more queries about windshield washer fluid? Hopefully, this list of frequently asked questions can help.
Can I Use Pure Water?
Putting water in your windshield washer reservoir might seem like an easy solution when you run out, and it can work short-term in a pinch. However, the problems you’ll encounter will quickly outweigh any cost benefits.
For starters, mixing water with dirt makes mud. So, if you end up with dust and grime on your windshield, adding water to the mix will turn it into a mess.
The same can be said for bird droppings and bugs, as water will move the mess around, smearing it all over the windshield and reducing your visibility.
You also run the risk of cold temperatures freezing your entire reservoir if it contains pure water. If you find yourself in this position, you can end up with an expensive repair once ice cracks the plastic.
What Happens if I Use Summer Fluid in the Winter or Vice Versa?
Using a summer windshield washer fluid in the winter can be dangerous because it could freeze on your windshield and reduce your visibility. It’s a good idea to switch to a de-icing formula when the temperatures drop for safety reasons. Summer washer fluid is also prone to freezing in the water reservoir.
It’s less dangerous to use a winterized windshield washer fluid in the summer. The only catch is that the product will have less cleaning power because ethanol and methanol take up space in the container. The result is less soap for your money. You might have to use more fluid to eliminate bugs or other summertime debris because of this lessened cleaning ability.
Is it Hard to Mix Concentrated Fluid?
Not really, but you’ll want to be careful.
Windshield washer fluids have all kinds of chemical make-ups, with some being made purely from soap and other containing potentially dangerous materials like methanol. Low-temperature fluids are banned in most of California for that reason.
When mixing concentrated fluid, have a jug ready, and dilute the product with water immediately to avoid problems. You might also consider using gloves in case you spill.
A pro tip? Mix the concentrated fluid with water in a separate container, rather than directly in the reservoir, to prevent suds and foam from forming and temporarily clogging your system.
Why Does De-icing Fluid Sometimes Freeze?
If you live in a cold climate, you probably know that wiper fluid with temperature ratings down to -27° Fahrenheit can freeze on your windshield even in above-zero weather.
This freezing occurs because, as you drive, the methanol in the de-icer fluid evaporates, particularly before your car has a chance to warm up. Rain and melting ice can also dilute ethanol, causing similar problems.
You can prevent this issue by allowing your defrost to warm your windshield before you drive anywhere. A warmer windshield will prevent the ethanol from evaporating, keeping your cold-weather windshield washer fluid working as it should.
Wrapping Up
Your car’s windshield is your portal into the outside world, allowing you to see potential hazards as you navigate the roads. Without a clean windshield, you’re driving blind. Invest in the right windshield washer fluid to match the season, your driving conditions, and your climate for the best possible results. More

Truckers are a different breed: independent, hard-working, and focused. While in the old days of trucking, navigation happened using road atlases and radios, the new trucking industry relies on dispatchers, third-party logistics software, and GPS systems to get loads to the right place at the right time.
A GPS navigation system is a balance of the new and the old: although it relies on 21st-century tech to get the job done, it maintains the independent spirit of trucking alive by putting knowledge and autonomy into the hands of truckers while they are on the open road.

Features to Consider in a Truck GPS Navigation System
If you’re a trucker, your cab is your office, and it’s worth investing in a nice truck GPS navigation system that can help you get your loads in on time, every time. Evaluate the following features when shopping to help pick out the best products.
Screen
From pocket-sized black and white screens to tablet-format GPS readers, screens are the most important physical part of a GPS navigation system. If you’re a long-haul trucker that relies on GPS all day, every day, investing in an HD, glare-free, full-color screen can be well worth the price.
Fleet Management Features
Depending on your status as a contractor, owner operator, employee, or logistics provider, fleet management features can save hundreds of hours, dollars, and gallons of gas each year.
Some truck GPS navigation systems can integrate with third-party logistics software or create an interlinked network that helps dispatchers monitor their fleets and get loads delivered. Fleet service capabilities vary from GPS system to GPS system in terms of power and connectivity, but even the most simple features can profoundly change how truckers operate.
Connectivity
While the most inexpensive units connect to GPS and nothing else, many navigation systems have a full host of features that can be accessed using WiFi and Bluetooth. These features range from simply connecting to your phone, all the way to voice control and inter-device communication with backup cameras, radios, and wireless speaker systems.
Ease of Use
When you’re hauling a load down the highway at 70mph, the last thing you need is a fussy GPS beeping, barking orders, and issuing confusing directions. It’s vital to have a simple, responsive, and easy-to-use touch screen in order to manipulate your navigation system while driving. If it’s hard to use your GPS system, it’s inconvenient at best and dangerous at worst.
Navigation
Each GPS manufacturer uses a completely different navigation system based on different maps, satellites, and route-building software. Remember the Apple Maps debacle back in 2012? That’s a great example of how things can go wrong, and the results of a poor backend to your GPS navigation are even worse as a truck driver. Stick with reliable GPS providers with good GPS coverage, truck-specific routing, and frequent map updates, or you could end up between a rock and a hard place.
With these features in mind, let’s take a look at some of the best truck GPS navigation systems out there:

Top 10 Best Truck GPS Navigation Systems 2020

1. Best Overall Pick: Garmin Dezl 780 LMT-S GPS

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Why we like it: Although this truck-specific system is expensive, it’s a clear standout based on its incredible accuracy, ease of use, and quality.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Screen Size: 7 Inches
Fleet Management Features: Yes
Connectivity: WiFi, Bluetooth
Review
The Garmin Dezl is the Kenworth of navigation systems: durability, ease of use, and comfort all combine to create a product designed solely with truckers in mind. While plenty of owner-operators have made do with sub-par navigation systems in the past, common issues with quality and navigation accuracy are completely resolved with this system.
The one downside comes when it’s time to pay the bill. This isn’t one of those direct-to-consumer sub-$100 units like the OHREX GPS Navigator System. In fact, it’s even more expensive than the already-premium-priced Garmin Dezl 580 LMT-S, its little brother. But in the world of trucking, a reliable unit can make the difference between a missed deadline and a satisfied client for an owner-operator. Besides, as the average trucker drives about 100,000 miles a year, at the end of the day, you’re paying about one cent every 250 miles for the privilege of using the device.
A seven-inch display is tied for second-largest on our list with the Rand McNally TND 740 System, meaning you can enjoy 3D HD graphics and a full-color display in large format.
Watch out for the fact that if you want to use the built-in dash camera feature, you’ll have to carefully set up the GPS so that you can see the screen from the driver’s seat and that the camera can fully see the road ahead—depending on your cabin setup, it can be a little tricky to get right.
Navigation
Garmin is well-known for having some of the best navigation in the game, with a phenomenal truck-centric database loaded with truck-specific advisories and waypoints like truck stops, way stations, bridge-height warnings, and more. Maps are comprehensive and frequently updated with live info, leading to fewer missed turns and more missed traffic jams.

Pros

Reliable truck-specific system solves common problems of truckers
3D HD Graphics on a large-format seven-inch screen
Incredible navigation accuracy
Truck specific advisories and waypoints

Cons

Premium price point
Can be tricky to set up the dashcam

2. Best Premium Pick: Rand McNally TND 740 IntelliRoute Truck Navigation GPS

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Why we like it: Truck-specific waypoints, live info, included Sirius XM radio, and an ELD-compatible setup help this device justify a well-above-average pricepoint.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Screen Size: 7 inches
Fleet Management Features: Yes
Connectivity: Bluetooth, WiFi
Review
Rand McNally’s mid-range GPS device after their flagship Rand McNally Overdrive Pro is a phenomenal, truck-specific, user-friendly device that prioritizes drivers in its approach. Along with the standard GPS features you might see in a car, it also pushes out truck-specific waypoints, real-time weather and traffic updates, and even gas prices.
Sensitive to the needs of truckers, the GPS offers Bluetooth hands-free calling and access to voice assistants via mobile devices. Connect it to your stereo system, and you’re ready to go with automatically included SiriusXM radio stations.
Info and maps are automatically updated, pushed out by Rand McNally’s system. These updates incorporate a high level of detail, with lane guidance in advance of exits, toll cost info, alerts, and even fuel level information that can help you more efficiently plan your stops.
It’s also ELD-ready and can be connected via app or cable to any FMCSA-approved device, making tracking for compliance both intuitive and accurate. Durability is a small concern, as this specific model has a history of some quality-control issues, but Rand McNally has strong customer support and will replace the device if you have any issues.
Navigation
Although this navigation system contains ‘IntelliRoute’ in the title, navigation and routing is far below average for the category and beat out by quite inexpensive products like XGody’s GPS Navigation System for one reason: the lack of non-commercial zones. If you’re in an area or state with non-commercial zones that aren’t fit for semi-trucks, watch out: this GPS could send you down an illegal route.

Pros

Accurate and user-friendly device with large screen
Compatible with ELD devices
High level of truck-specific detail
Strong customer support

Cons

Doesn’t keep track of routes with non-commercial zones

3. Best Budget Pick: Arova 256M Navigation System

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Why we like it: Even though this 7-inch GPS system lacks Bluetooth and WiFi, powerful navigation capacity and regularly updated maps make this a smart buy.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Screen Size: 7 Inches
Fleet Management Features: No
Connectivity: None
Review
While the Arova 256M lacks premium fleet management features, Bluetooth, and WiFi connectivity, it’s still a fantastic pick on the basis of its ridiculously low price. Maps are available for the entirety of the US, Canada, and Mexico. A seven-inch touchscreen displays both 2D and 3D modes of viewing in full color and stores up to 8GB of information.
The touchscreen is quite responsive during use and doesn’t freeze or lock up like other inexpensive devices. Also unique for inexpensive units is the screen, which is designed to be seen even in direct sunlight. And while there isn’t any Bluetooth or WiFi capability, there is an FM transmitter that allows directions to be broadcasted via the speaker.
While the unit itself is fantastic for the price, there are some issues with the GPS system. Where premium units like the Rand McNally TND 740 IntelliRoute pick up a signal practically instantaneously, sometimes it’s a significant wait for this device to sync up with the GPS network.
Navigation
While this GPS has some minor issues related to picking up a signal immediately after turning on the device, accurate navigation and regularly updated maps make up for some of our complaints. Arova pushes out free updates from their website regularly, simply connect to your computer or laptop and download the updates. There aren’t any automatic WiFi updates as with premium devices like the Garmin Dezl 580 LMT-S, but for a fifth of the price, it’s hard to complain too much.

Pros

7-inch screen with 2D/3D graphics
Economical price
8GB of map storage
Frequently updated maps for all of North America

Cons

Minor delays related to picking up a GPS signal
No Bluetooth or WiFi capability

4. Best for Long Hauls: Garmin Dezl 580 LMT-S

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Why we like it: Truckers have wildly different needs than road trippers and urban drivers, and legacy manufacturer Garmin makes a GPS system perfectly suited to these unique requirements.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Screen Size: 5 inches
Fleet Management Features: Yes
Connectivity: Bluetooth, WiFi
Review
The Garmin Dezl 580 is a fundamentally great product: it recognizes the problems of truckers, addresses them, and fixes them in a simple and convenient way. Take the difficult problem of truck routing, for example: with weight limits, steep grades, and low bridge heights to contend with, just program your truck’s dimensions into the system and the GPS will automatically send you down a hazard-free route.
Long trips that require overnight truck-stop stays and rest stops? Garmin has that covered as well, with specific waypoints for trucker-friendly services. And with incorporated fleet management services, the device can track multiple trucks moving all over the country, centralize the information, and present it in a simple and usable interface for owners and dispatchers.
The Garmin Dezl 580 also sells an (admittedly pricey) option with a front-facing dashcam that can not only help resolve insurance claims quickly and fairly in case of an accident but with some insurance providers, lower premiums in the first place. All in all, it’s a device designed to alleviate the most common navigation issues truckers experience.
Navigation
Garmin is a GPS company first and foremost (also selling car, bike, and running GPS systems), and thus their navigation capacity is well above average. They incorporate live traffic alongside truck-specific waypoints, and frequently update map systems with the newest and most accurate truck information. All in all, it’s one of the most advanced GPS and map networks on the market.

Pros

Phenomenal truck-specific GPS and mapping system
Contains up-to-date map and hazard info
Incorporates fleet management system
Specific waypoints with waypoints useful to truckers

Cons

Option with dashcam is quite pricey

5. Best Refurbished: Rand McNally TND 540 LM

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Why we like it: This major-brand-manufactured device is much less expensive than typical high-end GPS navigation systems.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Screen Size: 5 inches
Fleet Management Features: No
Connectivity: WiFi
Review
One of the least expensive truck-specific GPS devices available from a major manufacturer, the TND 540 LM feels like Rand McNally’s response to the ultra-cheap GPS units that have flooded the market in recent years. The screens of these cheap units are large but low quality, but this device has a small but sensitive screen. While the direct-to-consumer units piggy-back off of GPS networks, the slightly more expensive TND 540 LM relies on Rand McNally’s proven mapping system that includes free lifetime map updates and truck-specific routing.
Also truck-specific? A network of thousands of points of interest, a mapping network that spreads across the entirety of North America, live rerouting based on traffic, and a feature called ‘junction view’ which recommends a lane to drivers when coming up on turns or complex interchanges.
The user interface feels slightly awkward as it was initially designed to be compatible with slightly larger Rand McNally devices like the Rand McNally OverDryve 8 Pro. It’s not a dealbreaker by any means, but icons feel slightly missized and a bit too pushed-together. But defects aside, Rand McNally does an impressive job of cranking out a unit with the features we’ve come to expect that’s priced a bit more on par with the bottom-tier units.
Navigation
Navigation with Rand McNally devices is a mixed bag. While their GPS network is completely accurate in terms of location, sometimes it displays inaccurate speeds. Although more of a user-interface issue than an actual navigation one, the fact that it’s hard to change the size of the map view makes it particularly difficult to understand exactly where you’re supposed to turn, especially in tightly-spaced city environments.

Pros

An inexpensive response to these common newer units available from cheaper manufacturers
Truck specific features like POIs and a North America-wide mapping system
Free lifetime map updates

Cons

Hard to navigate in urban areas
User interface is awkward due to small format

6. Best 8-Inch Screen: Rand McNally OverDryve 8 Pro

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Why we like it: A premium product delivers pristine graphics and a boatload of features, although its below-average durability doesn’t completely justify the expensive price.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Screen Size: 8 inches
Fleet Management Features: Yes
Connectivity: Bluetooth
Review
The Rand McNally OverDryve 8 Pro is not an inexpensive unit at almost ten times the price of ultra-budget options like Arova Navigation System. How is that price justified? Primarily with premium features, incredible graphics, and a reliable trucking system. The main issue? Durability, as the last thing you want to worry about on a $500-plus GPS unit is breaking it.
While the price seems outrageous at first glance, remember that if you measure the price by hour used or miles driven, the cost feels a lot more reasonable. Even if it only lasts as long as its one-year warranty (it should work for longer), you’re only paying a little over a buck a day. So it seems fair to say that this unit isn’t necessarily expensive, just that budget units are really, really cheap.
So at the end of the day, if you’re looking for the best of the best and an incredibly sharp screen is important to you, the OverDryve 8 Pro could be a compelling option. Although if you’re looking for a slightly smaller value pick with most of this GPS device’s features, it’s worth it to check out the Garmin Dezl 580 LMT-S.
Navigation
While Rand McNally has had some navigation woes with models like the Rand McNally TND 540 LM, the OverDryve 8 Pro proves that sometimes, you get what you pay for. Navigation is pristinely accurate and the time it takes to lock in and connect is near-instantaneous. The margin of error comes down to just a few feet. If you need near-perfect navigation, pick this unit.

Pros

Extremely accurate navigation system
Large, high fidelity screen
One-year warranty

Cons

Very high price
Durability is iffy

7. Best Large Display: Garmin Dezl OTR1000 GPS Truck Navigator

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Why we like it: While the 10-inch screen, load-to-dock guidance, and navigation are best in class, it’s hard to justify this unit’s price against its almost-as-good competitors.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Screen Size: 10 inches
Fleet Management Features: Yes
Connectivity: Bluetooth and WiFi
Review
Although this device is perhaps the finest and most technologically advanced GPS units on the market, it’s still difficult for many to justify a near $1000 device when there are effective competitors available for under $100.
So what does that extra $900 get you? An iPad-sized screen, for starters, in crystal clear high-def and with both 2D and 3D graphics settings. Also available are Garmin’s custom truck routing (the latest tech in this model), and a full database of loading zones and storage lots.
Hardware is upgraded as well over more expensive units. Garmin sells this unit with a magnetic mount, an industrial-grade suction cup, a ball adapter, and a screw-mount if you need complete security.
The best features, however, and the ones that allow Garmin to command a category-topping price for this unit are the truck-specific ones. Input your truck size and weight information and you’ll get a customized route. Truck-friendly points of interest are available all across the country. Load-to-dock guidance is another proprietary feature that prevents endless driving around the block trying to find the exact load drop off location.
So yes, you get something for your money compared with more economical devices like the Rand McNally TND 540 LM. But is it worth four to ten times the price? That’s a decision you’ll have to make for yourself. For owner-operators, a few extra dollars to have access to loading zones and storage lots can easily pay off over time. For different drivers, especially those who are driving the same routes frequently, a less expensive GPS will get you 95% of the way there.
Navigation
As we’ve already touched on, truck-specific routing for different sizes and weights of trucks is a clear highlight of this unit. Garmin is known for generally quick and accurate navigation, so this unit shouldn’t let you down in terms of routing. Garmin’s network is impeccable as well, meaning signal dropouts will be few and far between.

Pros

Large format GPS with many truck-specific features
Industrial-grade mounting options
Customized routes for truck sizes and weights
Loading zone and storage lot database

Cons

Near $1000 price point

8. Best Map Updates: TomTom Trucker 620

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Why we like it: This name-brand device’s main advantage is the manufacturer-specific routing and map system it offers.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Screen Size: 5 inches, 6 inches
Fleet Management Features: No
Connectivity: Bluetooth, WiFi
Review
While well-known navigation system manufacturer TomTom offers a proprietary map and navigation system with a small format, it’s a far cry from being as slick as other models equally as expensive. A six-inch touchscreen (there’s also a five-inch option) is comparable with other similar devices, and the TomTom device has other common GPS features like hands-free capability and live traffic.
Although it’s compatible with your smartphone via a mobile app, there’s no Google Assistant integration and no Siri. Truck-specific features include routing that’s purportedly customized on vehicle size, weight, and speed to help keep trips incident-free. Unfortunately, no fleet services either.
Although TomTom claims to adjust routes based on your unique truck info and frequently updated-by-WiFi maps, TomTom often drops the ball on routing, beat out by direct-to-consumer sub $100 products like XGody’s GPS Navigation System. While it’s typically more inconvenient than dangerous, truckers might find themselves on strange backroads when following TomTom routes in rural areas.
Navigation
The biggest fault of this model is navigation. Piggybacking off of TomTom’s standard GPS network and mapping systems, the only addition TomTom adds is a handful of truck-specific features like travel centers and other types of truck-related points of interest. What don’t you get? Weight limits, bridge heights, or gradient info that’s no less than vital for truckers.

Pros

An inexpensive device with both five and six-inch versions
Hands-free capability
Live traffic updating

Cons

Navigation has limited truck-specific functionality
So-so routing capability

9. Best Inexpensive Large Screen: XGody GPS Navigation System

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Why we like it: This ultra-inexpensive GPS device offers a large screen and truck-specific features at a budget price, although it suffers from an ease-of-use perspective.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Screen Size: 9 inch
Fleet Management Features: None
Connectivity: None
Review
With a screen the size of an iPad, a bright LED display, and a loud speaker, your last problem with this GPS device will be missing a turn. Based on inexpensive, lightweight tablet designs, this GPS is easily transportable and includes a suction cup that hangs the system down from the roof of your vehicle and also sets up conventionally on your dashboard.
The similarities with high-end GPS systems like the Garmin Dezl 580 LMT-S stop there, while the purchase of a $500-ish computer gets you specific truck features and an easy-to-use touch screen, a sub $100 GPS makes some sacrifices in the name of price.
The screen? Relatively unresponsive. Truck-specific features? They exist, but this GPS is really a generic map package with an overlaid truck skin that tells you bridge heights without rerouting you, potentially leading to some sticky situations if you don’t pay attention. Still, it’s a heck of a lot better than nothing, especially considering it’s a large-format device with a nine-inch display. If a device like the Garmin Dezl 780 LMT-S GPS is a personal trucking assistant, think of this GPS as an automatically-scrolling road atlas. Not better, not worse, just a bit less comprehensive.
Navigation
While luxury computers offer impeccable coverage, regular updates, and truck-specific info, the XGody GPS Navigation feels like the GPS on a 2010-era smartphone—completely functional, but lackluster. Estimated travel times have a large margin of error, and the signal can drop out at inopportune moments. A savvy trucker will see this as a valuable assistant, but it’s far from a one-way ticket to never thinking about navigation again.

Pros

Inexpensive GPS with regular updates and full-nation coverage
More-than-functional GPS
Some truck-specific features

Cons

Inopportune signal dropouts
Travel times have a large margin of error

10. Best Back-up Unit: OHREX GPS Navigator System

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Why we like it: An expensive 7-inch screen is great for the price, especially with intelligent route planning, but it’s hindered by GPS connection issues.
Editor’s Rating:

At a Glance
Screen Size: 7 inches
Fleet Management Features: No
Connectivity: None
Review
With the same (regularly updated) maps and navigation as premium competitors, a 2D/3D display system, and intelligent route planning, at first glance, it seems like an obvious choice to buy this sub $100 computer over units in the $500 range.
Add a 7-inch capacitive touchscreen and intelligent navigation that adjusts directions based on driving speed, and a low price tag looks even better. But while this GPS navigation system has most of the features of expensive units, it’s the execution, not the features, that make more expensive units more attractive.
For one, battery life: the unit advertises an eight-hour lifetime, but after a few months of regular use, you’ll have to keep it plugged in if you’re looking to keep navigation for longer trips. The connection is an issue too, and the GPS can drop signal annoyingly and randomly. Although the unit uses the same maps as the pricier models, the navigation algorithm is poor and can seemingly randomly send trucks down back roads instead of fast arterial highways. What’s more? There’s neither WiFi nor Bluetooth capacity with this device, meaning that in the case you’d like to connect to a computer, you’ll have to do it with a cable.
Navigation
While OHREX pays for the same, regularly updated maps as premium brands, navigation is touchy. The first issue is signal: the best maps in the world don’t do much good if the GPS can’t figure out where you are currently—connection to the GPS occasionally seems to come and go at will. Routing can be strange as well.

Pros

2D/3D display system with intelligent route planning
7-inch capacitive touchscreen
Intelligent navigation system

Cons

No WiFi or Bluetooth capability
Poor signal quality

Guide to Buying the Best Truck GPS Navigation Systems for 2020
While truck GPS systems range from state of the art to bargain bin, each and every system has the potential to make or break your load. Pick carefully to make sure that your new device will make your trip easier, not harder.
Using Your Truck GPS Navigation System
Truckers often require GPS units with features not found in car GPS navigation systems. This means they can take time to get used to and set up properly. Take time to learn your device, as truck GPS navigation devices are so fully featured that you can miss out on important features if you’re not paying attention.
Fleet Services
Since premium Truck GPS Navigation systems like the Garmin Dezl 580 LMT-S]Garmin Dezl 580 LMT-S and Dezl 780 LMT-S GPS have begun to offer fleet services, shipping companies, owner-operators, and even warehouses have begun to take advantage. A couple of the most common features are explained below:
Tracking
Occasionally, manufacturers will incorporate tracking into their GPS devices, which allow stakeholders to track shipments. This isn’t only convenient for dispatchers and shippers, who are now better able to track loads, but access can also be given to clients. Drivers can use this as well for a log of trips. This can prevent fleet managers from needing to buy standalone GPS trackers for their trucks.
Break Planning
With ELD eLog requirements continuously more widespread and enforced, planning breaks require a new level of precision. Many truck GPS systems have FMCSA requirements incorporated into their planning features, automatically suggesting truck-friendly waypoints when a break is required.
Dispatch
Relatively few truck GPS devices come with dispatch connection features, by which dispatchers can track drivers, send messages, and automatically incorporate updated route info.
eLog
Watch for an ELD-ready GPS device that can connect to an FMCSA-registered electronic logging device, making changing duty status and uploading HOS info possible directly from a GPS screen.
Programming
Once you’ve ordered, received, and unpacked your navigation system comes the tricky part: programming. For a truck-specific GPS to function properly, you need to input the proper dimensions and features of your rig so that your device can route you correctly.
To make things easy, make sure you have all the necessary measurements on hand. It’s worth it to put some effort in during set up so you don’t have to worry about the bigger things once you’re ready to get on the road.
Setup
Most GPS devices incorporate some type of mount to attach the device to a dashboard. Some just have a small mount to stick the GPS to the dashboard, others like the XGody GPS Navigation System utilize more elaborate and adjustable suction-cup based mounts that can adjust in all dimensions.
GPS Tips
As with any piece of technology, many users have love-hate relationships with their GPS devices. After all, when you rely on a navigation system for delivering a load and it goes out on you, it can make for a bad day. On the other hand, it was already helping you get there in the first place. The following tips should help things run smoothly:
Familiarization
While many first-time users have the tendency to slap their GPS device up on the dashboard and hit the road, there’s a key step that can’t be ignored if you want a good experience with your GPS device: familiarization. From understanding your GPS system’s menus to getting the right screen angle, we’d recommend taking at least 60 minutes to read your unit’s manual, set up your truck-specific items, and really understand your nav system.
While it’s tempting to drive off and learn by doing, figuring out your GPS while sitting still in the parking lot will pay dividends later. Driving down the interstate with a deadline is not the time to figure out your GPS. It can lead to a wrong turn, or worse.
Troubleshooting
While some GPS difficulties come down to user error, there are plenty of cases (oftentimes in cheaper units) where GPS navigation software or hardware fails on you. And believe it, there’s nothing more annoying.
As with almost all technology, if you’re having issues with your device, the action you can take that’s most likely to solve your problem is a complete system reboot. Sometimes this means unplugging and replugging. In other cases, there’s a button to be pressed. Will it take a few minutes to restart? Yes. Is it worth the time to solve an annoying GPS issue? Absolutely.
Synching
To function properly when your GPS starts up, it has to sync with the global satellite network that allows you to know exactly where you are on the planet down to the meter. It is called a global positioning system, after all. The price of knowing precisely where you are? A small period of GPS synchronization.
While expensive GPS devices can sync almost immediately, cheaper devices like the OHREX GPS Navigator System can take several minutes to sync up. It’s worth it to have a bit of patience, settle in, and wait for your GPS to synch up properly. A good portion of GPS technical difficulties come down to users not taking the time to properly sync their device.
Passive Tracking Features
Almost all of the devices on this list offer some level of passive GPS tracking. This means that your device will track your position, routes, average speeds, and more. Although some drivers elect to opt out of these features, passive tracking can provide helpful data to both trucking companies and owner-operators.
From gas prices, to tracking mileage for tax purposes, to providing information for insurers, passive tracking features can save you time and provide insights into trucking habits. It’s worth it to look into exactly what your device offers.
Using Standard Consumer GPS Devices
Is it possible to use a standard GPS device as a trucker? Yes, and there are truckers, companies, and owner-operators that use standard devices meant for cars when driving. However, considering the high stakes of truck load delivery, it’s more than worth it, at least for most truckers, to purchase a unit that has some protection against the risk of heading down a route where trucks aren’t permitted or worse, won’t fit.
FAQs
How Will a GPS Navigation System Help With eLog Compliance?
In December 2017, ELD eLog ‘electronic logs’ were implemented into the trucking industry, requiring new, stricter standards for accuracy and completion of truck logs. These logs are maintained by FMCSA-registered electronic logging devices that monitor breaks and durations of trips. While there aren’t any truck-specific GPS navigation devices that actually function as FMCSA-registered electronic logging devices, some GPS displays can be connected with eLog devices, making changing duty status and HOS info easy and automatic.
Can I Set Routes Based on Cargo?
The trucking industry is all about planning, and a huge part of that is making sure the right freight gets on the right route. From hazmat loads, to temperature-sensitive loads, to loads that need to bypass certain states, life is easier if your GPS takes care of it. For the most part, only higher-end GPS devices will be able to program routes based on cargo.
How Do I Troubleshoot My GPS?
While high-end GPS devices like the Garmin Dezl 580 LMT-S claim to work on any point on the planet, some GPS networks and devices can be a little more lackluster. Nonetheless, the advice for most electronics holds true: restart, disconnect, reset, and, if you still can’t work it out, contact customer support (TomTom has a fantastic customer support line).
Why Some Navigation Systems are Better than Others
Most people don’t put too much thought into their navigation systems, they just plug in the destination and take off. While most of the time, it’s that simple, different systems give different routes, report different traffic conditions, and offer varying degrees of accuracy based on their programming. Oftentimes, bigger companies with bigger reputations are worth the extra price based on the effort they put into maintaining their networks.
Frequency of Updates
Roads are being built, repaired, narrowed, and widened on a constant basis. This affects traffic, distances, speeds, and if you can even get to your destination in the first place. While companies like Garmin issue frequent updates every three to four months, other manufacturers take years to re-update their maps. Others still piggyback off of third-party systems and thus don’t have much control over mapping systems, or worse yet, have to pay a larger company for updates.
Live Features
Mobile application makers like Google Maps and Waze use their network of mobile devices to read live traffic conditions and make routing decisions to help you get to your destination as quickly as possible. While bigger GPS manufacturers can reroute you based on live traffic inputs, other manufacturers don’t have the capacity or density of devices to provide live updates.
If you’re frequently trucking around high-density areas, it’s worth it to look into a device with live updates, but if you are mostly doing long highway miles, a device that reroutes based on traffic may not make much of a difference.
Access to Maintenance Reports
Truck GPS Navigation systems like the Garmin Dezl 780 and the Garmin 580 offer a high level of integration by plugging directly into the truck, giving feedback and alerting you of scheduled maintenance and eLog intervals. These are particularly valuable for those who use a fleet vehicle or for drivers that put huge miles on their trucks.
Truck GPS Navigation Apps
GPS navigation systems experienced a major heyday in the early 2000s, as smartphones took over general GPS apps. Eventually, truck-specific GPS apps began to gain market share against dedicated GPS navigation systems. While GPS apps have their place, many truckers still use and prefer a hardware-based GPS.
Benefits of a GPS Navigation System over an App
With the low cost and high accessibility of phone apps, truckers and trucking companies are sometimes hesitant to buy expensive GPS navigation devices. While the cost of a specific device isn’t insignificant, there are some distinct benefits that a GPS navigation system adds.
Reliability
With a cell phone, your fate is up to your phone battery and your service provider. An effective GPS works 100% of the time, in any spot on earth. Plus, as long as your truck is running, you’ve got the power to run your GPS.
Fleet Management
Apps don’t have fleet management integrations like truck-specific GPS navigation systems, which means they don’t offer the same organizational benefits. This means, among other things, no fleet tracking, no speed tracking, no route planning features, and definitely no access to maintenance reports.
Truck Specific Info
Most apps don’t offer the information that truckers find vital: road conditions, speed limits, truck-specific hazards like weight limits and bridge height limits, weigh stations, and other truck-specific information. GPS Navigation units? A totally different story.
Legality
An unfriendly police officer and messing with an uncooperative cell phone while driving can lead to a broken law, a pricey ticket, or even a license suspension. Avoid the problems before they happen by using a hands-free, voice-control GPS device.
Truck GPS Navigation Apps to Use
There are a few great truck-specific GPS apps to use, although most have at least some drawbacks compared to a dedicated system. The benefit, however, is cost, and apps cost a fraction of the price of a permanently mounted system.
CoPilot Mobile Navigation for Trucks: CoPilot Mobile Navigation is a dedicated system for trucks that installs on both Android and Apple devices. With fleet services, truck-specific routing, and offline capabilities, it’s the closest thing to a dedicated GPS, although it functions best on a tablet-style device (read: expensive), and a subscription model means that over time, it might not be cost-effective.
Sygic Truck Navigation: Popular abroad but now making its way into the domestic market, Sygic Truck Navigation is a relatively inexpensive truck-specific app with offline maps, but it relies on Google Maps for all routing. You’ll also have to buy your own devices to control routing.
Google Maps: Plenty of truckers like to use the ultra-convenient Google Maps to plot their driving routes, and although the app is free and provides accurate traffic information, it lacks truck-specific routes, fleet management services, and requires a data connection.
Wrapping Up
Experienced truckers are the most likely to have a tricked-out, custom cabin with all the latest technology, and for good reason: they know that keeping equipment up-to-date can be tremendously effective in terms of saving time and money.
Whether you’re an independent trucker or you control a whole fleet, a good truck GPS navigation system can be the difference between running a profit and losing money in this ultra-competitive industry. Effective shopping can mean the difference between a smooth trip and a lost load. More