Markus Andrews

Windshield sun shades are a product that too many car owners ignore. Most people don’t think it’s worth the effort of installing sun shades onto their windshield every time that they get out of the car. However, doing so could seriously prolong the life of the upholstery and equipment within the vehicle. It could also keep the inside temperature of your car within a reasonable range that’s still fairly comfortable.
This isn’t a product that you just want to grab off the shelves. It’s not as easy as buying a charger for your phone. There are several considerations before choosing the best sun shade to buy for your car or truck. Keep reading to learn more about keeping your car cool and shielding it from damaging sun. You’ll also find our list of our favorite sun shades for 2020.

How to Choose the Best Windshield Sun Shades
Most windshield sun shades look oddly similar to one another. It can be hard to differentiate between two different types of windshield sun shades and narrow down your options if you don’t know what you’re looking for. The thing that sets each windshield sun shade apart from one another is the material that it’s made of, its size and fit and its ease of use. We’ll look at these factors in more detail below.
Material
This is where most windshield sun shades will vary. Although many products may look alike, they’ll actually be made from different materials. Consider the type of material that the shades are made of, how thick the material is and how well it can reflect the sun’s powerful rays away from your car. You should also ideally look for a product that has some insulating properties as well, as this will keep the inside of your vehicle cool even when it’s steaming hot outside!
There are many materials to choose from, but the best sun shades will be made out of polyester and have a thin coating of silver on top. The silver is the reflective material that prevents the sun’s rays from getting into the car.
Some other manufacturers may use other reflective materials. Another common material is nylon. Nylon windshield sun shades tend to be a bit cheaper; however, they’re not as effective at protecting the inside of your car from UV damage. It’s also not very good at keeping your car cool.
Another thing to consider about the material is its thread count (T). A higher thread count represents a higher density and tighter weave and will do a better job at blocking UV radiation.
Size/Fit
Every make and model out there will have a slightly different windshield size and shape. Make sure that you are buying a windshield sun shade that is the right size for your car. You want something that will be able to cover your entire windshield with ease to prevent any heat or UV rays from getting inside the car. Most windshield sun shades come in sizes XXS to XXL.
Some windshield sun shades are adjustable. Most of the time, you’re going to need to measure the size of the windshield and try to find a product that can offer as close of a fit as possible. Most products will have some type of flexible wiring inside that will allow you to alter the shape of the shades, so they wrap around the windshield perfectly.
Ease of Use
Last but not least, look for something that’s easy to install. You really don’t have that much room to move inside your car, so you want a product that is easy to fold and store. Ideally, the windshield sun shade shouldn’t take more than a couple of minutes to install and disassemble. Anything longer than that and the product isn’t really that convenient at all. When the sun shade is folded up, it should be small enough to store in the trunk or in the glove box. It should not take up too much space.
Now that you know what to look for, here are our top 10 selections. Looking for maximum sun protection? Be sure to also check out our list of the best side window sun shades.

Top 10 Best Windshield Sun Shades 2020
1. Best Overall Pick: Magnelex Windshield Sun Shade

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Why we like it: This windshield sun shade offers a universal fit for most sedans and mid-sized SUVs. It’s made from polyester and can block up to 99% of the sun’s rays!
Editor’s Rating:

Overview
The Magnelex Windshield Sun Shade is a high quality product made from good materials that are capable of blocking out most of the sun’s rays. It’s easy to install and easy to store, making it one of our favorite products on our list.
This windshield sun shade comes with a pouch and a steering wheel cover! The steering wheel cover will protect the steering wheel from fading or cracking. The pouch also makes it easy to store this product in your glove box or in your trunk.
You can also try this product risk-free. If you don’t like it at all, the manufacturer offers a money back or a free replacement guarantee!
Material
This windshield sun shade is made from 210T polyester. It’s very reflective and can block up to 99% of the sun’s rays. Polyester is also water resistant and coated to resist both rot and mildew, so this is a product that will last a long time. At the very least, this sun shade can maintain its color and strength for 5 years. The polyester does a great job at protecting your car from sunlight and keeping it cool.
Size/Fit
This is a universal sun shade, and one size will fit most sedans and mid-sized SUVs perfectly. It comes in three different sizes: medium, large and extra-large. A medium can fit a sedan the same size as a BMW 6 series or a mid-size SUV like a BMW X6. A large can fit a Chevrolet Malibu or Tahoe and an XL can fit a Chrysler Voyager.
This sun shade comes in one piece, so you need to take careful measurements of the windshield. If you’re looking for something with more adjustability and leeway for measurement errors, consider the EzyShade Windshield Sun Shade.
Ease of Use
This is a very easy product to install. It will pop open and unfold the minute that you take it out of its storage pouch. Simply place the sun shade against the windshield, and you’ll be good to go.
It’s also easy to store this product as well. All you have to do is fold the product in half and make sure that the frames are even and in place. Next, grab the top left and bottom right corners and twist in the opposite direction to make an ‘8’ shape. You can then push your hands together and the windshield sun shade will automatically fold together to make an even smaller circle. Wrap the sun shade with an elastic band (optional) and store it in the storage bag.

Pros
Fits perfectly to most sedans
Easy to install
Made from polyester
Comes with free pouch and steering wheel cover
100% money-back Guarantee

Cons
Material is thinner than other

2. Best Premium Pick: EcoNour Windshield Sun Shade

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Why we like it: This windshield sun shade is made from high-density 230T polyester and can reduce the cabin temperature in your car by up to 40℉.
Editor’s Rating:

Overview
Protect your vehicles from the sun’s ray using the EcoNour Windshield Sun Shade. This is a premium sun shade that can keep your car cool and will prevent harmful UV rays from entering the car. The products are designed in New Jersey, USA by a family-owned business that was founded in 2015.
This sun shade is a tad pricier than other alternatives, but it’s definitely well worth the price! EcoNour offers a 100% money-back guarantee. If you don’t love their sun shades, they’ll refund you your money! If you’re looking for something that’s a better deal price-wise, consider the EzyShade Windshield Sun Shade. It can reduce the heat inside the cabin by up to 82%!
Material
This sun shade is made from high density 230T polyester. It’s a bit thicker than the Magnelex Windshield Sun Shade, so it’s a bit better at preventing UV rays from entering the car. It can reduce the inside cabin temperature by up to 40℉.
It has 8 inches of overlapping circle in the middle and steel rings that hold the frames together. These steel rings are significantly stronger than the metal wirings used by other brands. All in all, EcoNour Windshield Sun Shades are high quality and will last for years.
Size/Fit
In comparison to other companies, EcoNour also has more size variations. They have the classic, the standard, the large, the XS and the X-Large. Most sedans and SUVs will fit a standard although a larger sedan like the Audi S5 will fit a large.
These windshield sun shades will cover the entire windshield and offer a great fit regardless of the make and model of your car.
Ease of Use
This sun shade is known for its quick installation and folding design. It is easy to store and most users usually keep them in their glove compartment or door pocket. When you take the sun shade out of its pouch, it will pop open. All you have to do is place the sun shade against the windshield and pull the visors down to hold it in place.
To fold the sun shade, fold the shade in half and twist both sides in opposite directions. Push your hands together and it’ll all collapse into a small circle. You can store this small circle in a pouch.

Pros
Made from high quality 230T polyester
Capable of reducing the cabin temperature by up to 40℉
Offers UV and sun ray protection
Durable steel ring frames
100% money back guarantee

Cons
Pricier than other alternatives

3. Best Budget Pick: EzyShade Windshield Sun Shade

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Why we like it: This windshield sun shade can block over 99% of the sun’s rays and also reduce the heat inside the car by over 82%.
Editor’s Rating:

Overview
Every purchase comes with a storage pouch and an extra non-slip sticky dashboard mat. This mat is super convenient. You place it on your dashboard, and you can put your cell phone, change and other small items on top without worrying about them slipping.
Material
EzyShade Windshield Sun Shades are made from polyester and can block up to 99% of the sun’s rays and reduce heat in your vehicle by over 82%. It has a Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) of 0.18. Most other sun shades don’t even come close!
The only other sun shade that can probably do a better job is the EcoNour Windshield Sun Shade. This sun shade, however, will still keep your car nice and cool even during the sweltering summer months. The material is very lightweight, strong and durable.
Size/Fit
When it comes to size and fit, you’ll find these sun shades in three different sizes: sports, standard and max. The sports size can fit a sedan like the BMW 3 series or a Buick Reatta. The standard size can fit a Chevrolet Astro or a Cadillac ATS and the max size can fit a Ford Escape or a Benz R-Class.
These sun shades come in 2 identical rectangular shades. You can install them vertically or horizontally, as a portion of each sun shade will overlap with the other. They’ll stay put even if you don’t use the visors to hold them in place.
Ease of Use
This is one of the easiest sun shades to install. All you have to do is pop them out of their storage bag and place them onto the back of the windshield. The product is also relatively easy to fold as well. All you have to do is layer the two sun shades together, twitch them into an ‘8’ shape and fold it into a circle before storing it in its pouch.

Pros
Strong and durable polyester material
Capable of blocking up to 99% of the sun’s rays
Can reduce heat by over 82%
Easy to install and adjustable
Comes with a non-slip dashboard mat

Cons
Not a perfect fit

4. Best ASE-Certified: A1 210T Windshield Sun Shade

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Why we like it: This sun shade comes in 7 different sizes! You’ll easily find one that perfectly fits your vehicle!
Editor’s Rating:

Overview
This windshield sun shade was designed by an ASE-Certified Master Technician, so you can rest assured that it’s high in quality. Its price point is very similar to the Magnelex Windshield Sun Shade. This sun shade blocks UV rays and heat well although not as efficiently as the Magnelex Windshield Sun Shade.
Material
This product is made from a mix of polyester and nylon. Polyester is the superior material and does an excellent job at blocking almost all of the sun’s rays and heat. If you’re looking for something that’s made completely out of polyester, you’re better off with EcoNour Windshield Sun Shade. The nylon in this product does make it a bit more flexible and bendable.
Although it’s made from a mix of different fabrics, the A1 210T Windshield Sun Shade is still a fairly efficient and durable sun shade, as the thread count is 210. It has a twin-support conjoined design that makes the sun shield even sturdier.
Size/Fit
This is where this sun shade really shines! Unlike many other competitors, like the Magnelex Windshield Sun Shade, these sun shades come in 7 different sizes. It’s really easy to find a size that will fit your windshield perfectly. It offers a perfect fit on vertically short windshields. A small will fit a BMW X2 or Z4 and a XL will fit a truck like the Ford F150.
The product is made with high ductile materials. This gives it overlapping features that allow for a perfect fit that you can easily adjust.
Ease of Use
This windshield sun shade is just as easy to install and remove as most other products. Simply pop the sun shades out of their bag and they’ll unfold. You can slide your sun shade right above the dashboard on the car’s interior.
To fold the sun shade, fold the two sides together and twist it an ‘8’ shape before collapsing both sides together. You can store this product in the storage pouch that it comes with.

Pros
210 Thread Count
Blocks sun’s rays and heat efficiently
Quick installation and convenient storage
Comes in 7 different sizes
Designed by ASE-Certified Master Technician

Cons
Made from a mix of nylon and polyester

5. Best 2-Piece: Autoamerics Windshield Sun Shade

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Why we like it: The innovative 2-piece design makes this sun shade extremely easy to install.
Editor’s Rating:

Overview
The Automerics Windshield Sun Shade is another popular choice thanks to its innovative 2-piece design, which is similar to the EzyShade Windshield Sun Shade.
If aesthetics is a huge component of your purchase, this sun shade isn’t going to measure up to the BDT Auto Front Windshield Sun Shade, which comes in 12 different designs.
This sun shade comes with a storage pouch and two anti-slip pads for the dashboard. You can use these pads to hold small items like your keys or change.
Last but not least, this product is designed in the USA!
Material
It’s made from high density UV reflective material that’s reinforced with high strength ductile wire. This makes this product incredibly sturdy and durable. With that said, the manufacturer never specifies the thread count of the material or the exact fabric.
The EzyShade Windshield Sun Shade has the same design but is made from 100% polyester. You can rest assured that it’s high in quality, sturdy and durable.
That said, the manufacturer claims that this sun shade can offer over 99% UV protection and sun reflection. It will keep the inside of your car cool even in the scorching summer heat, and will protect the dashboard and upholstery from fading or cracking.
Size/Fit
This windshield sun shade comes in 3 different sizes: sports, standard and max.
Each sports piece measures 23.5 by 29 inches, and will fit most compact and sports cars, like an Audi R8 or a BMW 3 series, with ease. Each piece of a standard sun shade measures 28 by 31 inches and will fit most standard cars, sedans and mid-size SUVs and trucks with ease. It’ll fit a Chevrolet Astro or a Buick Cascada. A large piece measures 32.5 by 36 inches and will fit large SUVs and trucks, like a Hyundai Entourage.
The innovative 2-piece design is quite popular amongst many car owners because it can be installed vertically or horizontally. It’s easy to get the perfect fit! You can also overlap the pieces in the middle in order to accommodate different windshield sizes.
Ease of Use
This sun shade is easy to store and install. If you take the sun shades out of their storage pouch, they’ll pop open. You can place the sun shades against the dashboard and use the rearview mirror or the sun visors to hold them in place.
To store the shades, align them together and twist them into an ‘8’ shape before collapsing both sides together to create a small circle. Slide the shades into the storage bag and you’re done!
Unlike the Shinematix 2-Piece Windshield Sun Shade, it doesn’t come with an elastic that holds the small circles in place. With that said, it is quite a bit cheaper than the Shinematix 2-Piece Windshield Sun Shade, so if you can master putting the shades back into their bag without an elastic, you’re golden!

Pros
Blocks 99% of UV rays
Comes in 3 different sizes
Can be installed vertically or horizontally thanks to its 2-piece design
Easy to install and remove
Designed in USA

Cons
Doesn’t have elastic to hold it in place

6. Best Designs: BDT Auto Front Windshield Sun Shade

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Why we like it: If you like cute or fun designs, then BDT has exactly what you’re looking for!
Editor’s Rating:

Overview
If the design of the sun shade will be a major part of your purchasing decision, this is the best brand out there because the sun shades come in many printed designs rather than just one solid color. You’ll find some cute designs like a dog wearing sunglasses, some pretty designs like butterflies, and some patriotic designs with the American flag on it. There’s really something for everyone.
You can even flip the sun shade over and use the other side. The other side doesn’t have any prints on it and is just silver in color.
Material
It’s made with a double bubble construction, and much more durable and rigid than sun shades made from polyester or nylon, like the Autoamerics Windshield Sun Shade.
The two layers of air bubbles inside make this product more rigid, so it’ll hold its form even after many years. There’s more girth to the structure, and this makes it tougher.
The double-sided layer also does an excellent job at insulating your car and preventing any UV rays or heat from entering. In fact, this sun shade can reduce the interior car temperature by 30℉ to 50℉. That’s the difference between scorching heat and tolerable warmth.
Size/Fit
Unfortunately, this product only comes in one size, so there’s not a lot of room for adjustability there. Also, the accordion style does give you some leeway and will help make this sun shade suitable for almost all personal vehicles. You’ll need to use the rearview mirror as support.
This sun shade also has tapered edges that allow for a snugger fit. There are also deep cutouts that will fit the rearview mirror.
Ease of Use
Like with all accordion style sun shades, this sun shade is incredibly easy to fold up and store away. It is, however, a bit chunky. If you’re looking for something more compact, take a look at the X-Shade Windshield Sun Shade because it can be folded up to 1/10th of its original size. This sun shade does have a Velcro strap that you can wrap around it before you put it away.
Accordion style sun shades are, however, very easy to install. All you have to do is pop it open and place it on your dashboard. The whole set-up process will only take seconds.

Pros
Comes in 12 different designs
Accordion style for easy folding
Reduces the interior car temperature by 30℉ to 50℉
Provides 100% UV protection
Dual usage on both sides

Cons
Comes in one size and not as fitted as a 2-piece design
Can be a bit chunky when folded up

7. Best Reflective: Fortem Windshield Sun Shade

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Why we like it: Made from reflective polyester, this windshield sun shade comes with a 1 year warranty and a 100% satisfaction guarantee!
Editor’s Rating:

Overview
What makes the Fortem Windshield Sun Shade stand out is that it comes with a one year warranty and a 100% satisfaction guarantee! You can rest assured that you’ll get a full refund if you’re not in love with the product after you’ve received it!
Material
Made from reflective polyester, this sun shade is fairly durable and will do a great job at reflecting the sun’s rays and heat away from your car. This will keep the inside of your car as cool as possible, so you won’t have to spend as much money on AC.
Because of the material, this sun shade only comes in one color: silver. If you’re looking for more customizability, take a look at the Motor Trend Windshield Sun Shade, which comes in 7 different colors!
Size/Fit
In terms of sizing, this sun shade comes in 3 different sizes: standard, large and extra large. A standard will fit a compact like the Mercedes-Benz GLC. A large will fit a Honda Accord and an extra large will fit a Volkswagen Touareg.
Although the different sizes will give you a good fit that’s customized to the windshield size of your car, the fit isn’t as great as with a 2-piece windshield sun shade, like the Autoamerics Windshield Sun Shade. The fact that you can install the pieces vertically or horizontally allows for more adjustability.
Ease of Use
It’s easy to set this sun shade up. Simply unfold it and place it on your dashboard. When you’re done with it, fold it back up and put it in the storage pouch that it comes with. The entire process takes only seconds.

Pros
Made from reflective material
Comes in 3 different sizes
1 year warranty
100% Satisfaction Guarantee

Cons
Only one design
Not as fitted as 2-piece sun shades

8. Best for Winter: Motor Trend Windshield Sun Shade

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Why we like it: This one sun shade is designed for most personal vehicles, and is double-sided to keep your car cool during the summer and warm during the winter.
Editor’s Rating:

Overview
The Motor Trend Windshield Sun Shade is unique because it’s double-sided and made from reflective bubble foil. It does a great job at blocking the sun’s rays and heat, and will protect the inside of your car from discoloration and deterioration. It’ll protect LCD screens, GPS devices and upholstery. It also prevents the dashboard from fading or cracking.
This sun shade also comes in 7 different colors, so you can choose a product that fits the aesthetics of your car.
Material
This sun shade is double-sided to give you extra insulation from heat. It’s made with reflective bubble foil that offers excellent insulation against the heat emitted by the sun. The two layers of air bubbles in the middle will also strengthen the overall durability and toughness of this windshield sun shade by adding girth. It’s able to better hold its form in comparison to some other products, like the Fortem Windshield Sun Shade.
The bubble insulation foil does a good job at blocking the sun’s rays and heat. This sun shade offers 100% UV protection and can reduce the interior car temperature by 30℉ to 50℉.
Size/Fit
This windshield sun shade only comes in one size. If you’re looking for more sizes, take a look at the A1 210T Windshield Sun Shades, as they come in 7 different sizes!
With that said, this one size can fit most personal vehicles, as this sun shade is an accordion. You can easily adjust how you want to position the accordion creases to get the perfect fit. You’ll need to use the rearview mirror to support this sun shade and keep it in place. Also, the edges are tapered for a snugger fit.
Ease of Use
The accordion-style design of this sun shade makes it extremely easy to store. You can easily close it by folding it up. The Velcro strap will ensure that everything is in place. Even when you fold it together, this sun shade will still take up some room. If you’re looking for something that’s really compact when folded, take a look at the X-Shade Windshield Sun Shade.

Pros
Double-sided for convenience and enhanced heat insulation
Accordion style for easy storage and installation
Tapered edges for a snug fit
Can reduce the inside car temperature by 30℉ to 50℉

Cons
Only available in one size
Not very small even when folded

9. Most Portable: X-Shade Windshield Sun Shade

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Why we like it: This sun shade can be folded up to 1/10th of its original size. It also comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee!
Editor’s Rating:

Overview
With over 13 years of experience and over 100,000 happy customers, the X-Shade WIndshield Sun Shade is also another great choice for protecting your car from the sun’s rays and heat. You won’t have to worry about the scorching heat anymore if you have this handy sun shade with you.
You don’t have anything to worry about when you purchase the X-Shade Windshield Sun Shade, as it comes with a 100% satisfaction guaranteed. All of the products carried by X-Shade come with a 30-day guarantee. If you’re unhappy with what you received, you can get a full refund, no questions asked!
Last but not least, this sun shade comes with its own storage pouch and a non-slip pad. You can use the non-slip pad to hold your cell phone, keys or other small objects.
Material
It’s coated with silver nylon that’s capable of blocking 99% of the sun’s UV rays. Although this nylon coating is quite efficient, it is not as durable and sturdy as sun shades made out of polyester, like the EcoNour Windshield Sun Shade, which is made of high-quality 230T polyester.
The exterior is made from cotton lined fabric and it has a weatherproof housing aluminum foil lamination inside.
Size/Fit
This windshield comes in 5 different sizes. Although this is not as impressive as the A1 210T Windshield Sun Shades, it still offers more sizes than some other brands, like the Motor Trend Windshield Sun Shade.
A small will easily fit a Chrysler Crossfire and a medium will easily fit a Dodge Avenger. A large will fit a Honda Odyssey.
It offers a decent, snug fit with almost all car makes and models.
Ease of Use
One of the best features of the X-Shade Windshield Sun Shade is its compactness and portability. This sun shade is easy to fold, and will fold down to 1/10th of its original size, so you can store it easily in the middle console or the glove box.
This sun shade also comes in a cool and stylish pouch.
It’s equally as easy to install this product. Pop it out of its bag, and it will unfold by itself. You can then install it on your windshield and use a sun visor or the rearview mirror to keep it in place.
In short, you can install and fold this product up within seconds.

Pros
Retractable and folds down to 1/10th of its size
Comes in 5 different sizes
Installs in seconds
Comes with a pouch and a non-slip pad
100% money-back guarantee

Cons
Not as durable as some other sun shades

10. Best for SUVs: Shinematix 2-Piece Windshield Sun Shade

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Why we like it: This innovative 2-piece design will perfectly fit most vehicles, including SUVs, and protect it from UV rays and heat!
Editor’s Rating:

Overview
The Shinematix 2-piece Windshield Sun Shade is another 2-piece sun shade like the EzyShade Windshield Sun Shade. This makes this product very easy to install and remove. It’s also adjustable, so you get a perfect fit every time. This sun shade can block up 99% of the sun’s rays and also reflect heat. It will protect the interior of your car from damages.
You’ll get a free microfiber cleaning cloth as well as a storage pouch with your purchase. The microfiber towel can be used in both wet or dry conditions, and will remove dust and other particles without scratching your car. The towel can also be used to clean the windshield. Last but not least, this product also comes with a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty. You’ll need to enable the warranty online.
This product is designed in the USA.
Material
This sun shade is advertised as premium 210T, but that only describes the thread count and not the actual material. It’s said to be made from a UV, high-density reflective material that is reinforced with wires and uses high heat reduction technology, but, once again, the material is not specified. This material can block 99% of the sun’s rays and can block heat from entering the car.
Size/Fit
This sun shade comes in three different sizes: small, medium and large. It relies on a 2-piece innovative technology that can be used vertically or horizontally, so you get the best fit possible. A large will fit most big-size SUVs, sedans and trucks.
Ease of Use
This windshield sun shade is incredibly easy to install. The innovative 2-piece system makes this a piece of cake. All you have to do is slide each piece in place above the dashboard. To store the sun shades, layer the shades over one another, twist into the shape of an ‘8’ and fold the pieces together. Attach the pieces together with the elastic strap on the side, and place the folded pieces into the included travel bag. You can install or remove this sun shade within seconds!

Pros
Protects the interior of the vehicle from UV rays and heat
Adjustable for a better fit
Easy to install and store, simply layer and fold
Comes with a storage bag and a microfiber towel
Designed in the USA

Cons
Not clear on what the material is although it is advertised as premium 210T

A Complete Guide to Windshield Sun Shades

Windshield sun shades work! They’re super effective and definitely worth buying if you want to keep your car in tip-top shape. These shades were first patented in 1911 by Frank H. Ilse of Chicago, but they have only become really popular since the mid-1970s.
These products will block visible light from entering the sun and getting absorbed by the objects in the car. You need to remember that most windshields are already tinted and will block a good chunk of the UV light coming from the sun. Finding a good windshield sunshade isn’t easy. Many of the products on the market look pretty similar to one another, which is why it’s important to always read the product information to get more insight into the technologies that are incorporated into each design.
Other Factors to Consider
Although windshield sun shades are simple tools, there are many things that you need to consider when narrowing down your options. Some other factors that may come into play are listed below.
Looks
Not all windshield sun shades look the same. Many of the newer products on the market now look quite stylish. Some have interesting designs on them, and can even be used as a type of decoration. Look for a color and design that you love and is somewhat reflective of the things that you like or your personality. You’ll feel like you got a better deal if you’re able to find a product that speaks to you.
Warranty
You’d be absolutely gobsmacked at how many manufacturers offer some type of warranty on windshield sun shades. Some of these products may come with no warranty, but others may come with a lifetime replacement warranty or even a 1-year warranty like the Shinematix 2-Piece Windshield Sun Shade.
Make sure that you check the warranty that’s offered first before you buy it. A good warranty will give you peace of mind knowing that you can easily get a replacement should anything happen to the product.
Durability
Consider how long the windshield sun shade will last you and how often you’ll need to replace it. Most windshield sun shades are fairly reasonably priced and within the same price range, so you’re not really going to find a great bargain on them. The biggest difference is the quality of the sun shades and how long they’ll last. A good windshield sun shade can easily last you decades. The only time that you’ll need to replace the sun shade is when you switch to a different car.
Type
Although most sun shades look almost identical, there are different types. They include:
A custom-fit, collapsible sun shade, which will fit perfectly to your car’s windshield. These sun shades are designed with the exact same dimensions as your windshield, so it can offer full coverage. These products tend to be a bit more expensive, as they can only fit one car model.  With that said, you’ll get a much better fit. You won’t have to worry about gaps or excess material spilling out from the edges.
A universal-fit, collapsible sun shade, which is designed to be used on a variety of cars. This may not be an exact fit. There may be some gaps on the edges or some material may spill out from the sides. However, these sun shades tend to be much cheaper than custom options and will do the trick as well.
An accordion sun shade, which folds in an accordion-like manner. These sun shades are less likely to slip off the windshields and usually offer a universal fit. However, due to the accordion-like nature of these products, they tend to be a bit bulkier.
Knowing which type is best for your car can be difficult, so you’ll need to take into consideration all of the factors as well listed here as well. Any type would fit your car. Although a custom may fit perfectly, a universal-fit sun shade may still cover everything that needs to be covered.
Adhesive
Some sun shades come with adhesives that will either stick to the side of the car or to the windshield. These adhesives prevent the sun shades from slipping, especially if you’ll be away from your car for long periods of time.
How to Install Windshield Sun Shades
Accurately measure the size of your windshield before purchasing a sun shade. Get a custom fitted one or a universal one that fits as close as possible. Place the top of the sun shade between the rearview mirror and the top of your windshield and push the bottom of the sun shade against the bottom of the windshield. Push the sides in at the side as well. Keep the sun shade in place by folding down the visors. Watch the video below for a walkthrough!
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PRO TIP: If the sun shades are slipping, consider taping it to the sides using Velcro tape. A 1.5-inch tape will usually do the trick just fine!
Reasons to Use Windshield Sun Shades on Your Car
Is it really worth the time and effort to place a windshield sun shade to your car every time you get out? While it is a personal choice, most experts do recommend putting in the effort for the reasons below.
#1. It’ll Cool Down Your Car During the Summer and Warm It Up During the Winter
That’s right. You should install windshield sun shades not only during the summer, but during the winter as well. Contrary to belief, it’s useful to install windshield sun shades on your car throughout the entire year.
During the summer, these shades will protect the inside of your car from becoming sweltering hot. In fact, good shades can reduce the internal temperature by up to 40 degrees! This is extremely important as the inside of your car can get a lot hotter than the outside temperature.
During the winter, these shades can also increase the temperature inside your vehicle, so you won’t freeze to death while you wait for your engine to heat up. Most windshield sun shades have heat-absorbing materials in them that won’t make the inside of your car feel toasty, but will make it bearable.
#2. It Can Block UV Rays
If you’re sitting inside your car, installing a windshield sun shade can protect you and your passengers from UV rays that can lead to skin cancer. The shades can also protect the interior from fading, so your dashboard, upholstery and console look new even as they age. UV rays can actually crack and fade your steering wheel. Last but not least, these shades can also protect electronics inside the car, like GPS devices, DVD players, phones or computer tablets that may be left inside. polyester sun shades can block up to 99% of the sun’s rays!
#3. They’re Really Affordable
For all of the things that windshield sun shades can do, they’re surprisingly affordable. You can easily buy one without breaking the bank. By installing this product, you can prevent costly repairs in the future. Replacing a cracked steering wheel can cost several hundred, if not thousands, of dollars depending on the make and model of your vehicle.
Protect the Inside of Your Car
Get a windshield sun shade to protect the inside of your car. They deflect heat, prevent UV rays from damaging the consoles and upholstery inside and are super affordable. They’re also easy to install and small enough that you can store them in a glove box or in the middle console. Best of all, you don’t need to be a rocket scientist to install them or put them away.
When looking for a windshield sun shade, take the time to research each product and consider some of our recommendations above. We’ve listed some of the best products on the market based on the materials they’re made of and other factors. More

If you have ever had to spend a night in your car, you know how absolutely brutal on your back it can be. No matter how comfortable your car is while you are cruising, the seats are just not meant to be used as a mattress. The good news is that there are many products that are intended to be used in your car as a bed.

Getting into the World of Car Air Beds
Whether you own a compact car and just need a place to stick the kids when Grandma comes over, or are a hardcore overlander with a dedicated off-road SUV for camping, there’s an airbed for you. That’s pretty sweet. However, since there is so much variety, it can be hard to know how to choose the right one.
That’s where we come in. We have a list of the top 10 car air beds complete with reviews. We also have some great extra info in our full guide below. But first, let’s get you ready with the basic info you need to know before you start shopping.
Choosing the Right Bed for You
In truth, there are not that many decisions needed to narrow down which car air bed will work best for you. That’s largely because once you choose the size, your options dwindle rapidly. After all. You would look mighty silly trying to force a gigantic mattress into a tiny car. Here is what you need to know before shopping for your car air bed.
Size
Like we said, choosing the right size is the most important thing when choosing a car air bed. There are two primary considerations concerning size: the number and size of the people going to sleep on it, and the amount of space you have in your car.
We have a guide to figuring out what your car can fit a bit further down the page, but we can’t help you decide how many people you need to sleep. We also can’t help you determine how many people you are willing to cram into a tiny space. Just take a look at the general size and make sure it fits your needs.
Materials and Comfort
Some mattresses are thin and will ruin your back. Some are so thick it will feel like sleeping on a cloud. Some are made of only PVC and squeak every time you move. There’s no real one size fits all, but we can safely say that bigger beds will be more comfortable. Both in surface area, since not being able to stretch out can be annoying, and in thickness. The thicker the air bed, the more cushion there is between you and the ground.
You’ll also want to avoid seams and crevices. Air beds can be very complicated in shape, especially when meant to conform to your car. Those shapes can create arm traps that will cause you discomfort.
Types of Car Air Beds
There are a few different types of air beds that can be used in your car, ranging from giant truck mattresses to tiny backpacking rolls. We’ll hit the main categories, but know that there are actually more.
The Back Seat Bed
The back seat air bed is fantastic for people with smaller cars who just need to spend the night once or twice in their car. It is a mattress that has inflatable parts that take up the footwells, so you get the maximum width possible.
It’s not a lot of space, but it’s better than nothing. Just be aware that if you have a sportier car, like a Mustang or BRZ, they won’t fit. Really only a backpacking mattress will fit in the back of one of those, and that may even be worse than no mattress at all.
The SUV Bed
SUV beds are meant to expand over fold-flat rear seats and take up the cargo area. It’s definitely not limited to SUVs, though. Vans, minivans, station wagons, really these beds will fit in anything with fold-flat seats. Many will even fit into standard hatchbacks like the Focus and the Prius.
If you have space, they are better for two people and more comfortable in general. They can also be pulled out and used in other places.
The Truck Bed Air Mattress
Truck bed air beds go in truck beds. They have cutouts for wheel wells so that you get the full width of the bed for sleeping. They also tend to be way thicker and more comfortable than other categories.
If you don’t own a truck, though, they are just a costly standard air mattress.
The Standard Air Mattresses
No rule says you can’t just put a regular air mattress in the back of your vehicle. In fact, it’s usually the cheapest option. You just have to make sure they will fit since they aren’t meant for anything in particular.
You’ll also have to put up with the inconvenience of it. Beds made for cars fill up the entire space; you can’t fall off an SUV air bed. They also usually have bumpers to protect your head from things like handbrakes. Typical air mattresses have none of those things. There is a genuine possibility of falling off during the night and whacking your foot on a sharp seatbelt clip. Don’t ask us how we know.
With the basics out of the way, let’s get on with the list. We tried to find a great cross-section of styles and values; you are bound to find the perfect one for your lifestyle.

Top 10 Best Car Air Beds 2020
1. Best Overall Pick: Wey & Fly Air Mattress

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Why we like it: The Wey & Fly Air Mattress is comfortable, easy to inflate, and fits neatly in the back of a van or SUV.
Editor’s Rating:

Fit
It’s wide enough for two people at 53in wide and long enough for the average adult at just over 6ft in length. That’s really good for a car bed. Most backseat beds are much shorter, so if you need to stretch out, an SUV mattress is what you need.
You will need a bigger vehicle though, that’s what they are designed for. It doesn’t have to be an SUV, it can be a van or crossover, but there aren’t many cars that have more than 5ft of cargo length.
Finish
The Wey & Fly Mattress is really well built. It’s got a decent plastic shell that can withstand being pierced by sharp rocks, and it’s easy to clean on top of being durable. Beige was a weird color choice, though; it shows stains fairly easily, which can be unsightly.
Comfort is the biggest benefit of this mattress. It’s chambered so that you can use it in different configurations, but it lacks the seams that other versatile SUV beds have. The only thing you might really want are extra cushions to take up footwell cavities. They are simple enough to purchase as an extra. You can grab them here.
Our Thoughts
There’s really no substitute for the length that a larger mattress like the Wey & Fly offers when it comes to sleeping in a car. Even the nicest backseat beds won’t allow the average adult to stretch out, so if you need to sleep more than once or twice in a car, you have to have that length.
Yeah, you do need a larger vehicle to use it, but chances are if you are camping or going on long road trips, you already have a crossover or SUV. If you are concerned about the fitment, there are more versatile large mattresses like the Saygogo bed we talk about later. The Wey & Fly inflates faster, is easier to work with, and more comfortable. That’s why it’s taken our top spot.

Pros
Segmented for versatility
Easy to take out of the car and use for camping, in-laws, or whatever
The seamless mattress is very comfortable

Cons
Even though the air pump is fast, it can take a while to inflate because of the chambers
White color stains easily

2. Best Budget Pick: FBSport Inflatable Mattress

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Why we like it: The FBSport car bed is cheap, rugged, and comfortable. What more could you want?
Editor’s Rating:

Fit
The FBSport mattress is your everyday standard backseat mattress. It has chambers that fill up the footwell space and offer the most area you can get in the back of a car. It’ll fit in the back of anything but the cars with the smallest back seats, and it’s perfect for children and pets.
It does suffer from one problem: it’s short. That’s the limitation of every backseat mattress. A car can only be so wide, after all. That means a grown adult can’t stretch out fully. If you need that, consider getting something that can fit over fold-flat seats like the Saygogo mattress instead.
Finish
At its core, the FBSport inflatable bed is a cheap air mattress. Just like the other cheap air mattress on our list, the durability isn’t as good as others. If you are really looking for a bulletproof backseat airbed, take a look at the Caloer option instead.
Aside from the short size, though, it’s comfortable enough. The soft fabric top can be slept on without sheets if you want, and there’s enough cushioning to keep you off the bumps and curves of your car’s seats. We do wish it had more of a headboard. If you aren’t careful, it’s easy to hit your head on a door handle. That makes for a rude way of waking up.
Our Thoughts
Sometimes simple is exactly what you need, and that’s what the FBSport inflatable mattress embodies. It’s perfect for the occasional night in a car. It’s not comfortable enough for extended stays or anything, but it beats trying to find a way to sprawl out across the backseats without a mattress. The simplicity also has another benefit; this unit is cheap.
The durability could be better, and sometimes the air valve will stick open, but it’s still a great value for the price. If you are still on the fence about buying a backseat bed, you can buy this without feeling bad.

Pros
Inexpensive
A good amount of comfort for what it is
Fits on most back seats

Cons
Could use a headboard
Air valve can be temperamental

3. Best Premium Pick: Pittman Outdoors AirBedz Pro3

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Why we like it: You’ll never want to sleep on another air mattress after spending a night on the Pittman Outdoors Pro3.
Editor’s Rating:

Fit
At almost 8ft long and over 5ft wide, the Pittman Outdoors Pro3 is the largest mattress on our list. That’s the same surface area of a king mattress. This means you’ll have no issues fitting a couple of people comfortably for a night of sleep (or other nighttime activity, we don’t judge here). It’s also the thickest mattress on our list, which means even if you load it full of people, they will all be comfortable.
The downside is that you need a ton of space to use it. It has cutouts for the wheel wells on a truck, and it’s wide enough that only larger trucks have enough width to make a good fit. You might be able to get it into a larger van, but the reality is that if you have anything smaller than an F-150 long bed, you’d be better off with a different mattress.
Finish
The mattress is a foot thick and has a soft fabric top. It’s easy to say that there isn’t a more comfortable bed on our list. The only thing you might want to do is bring an extra couple of blankets to fill the wheel well area completely. Just like the less expensive version we talk about on our list here, the wheel well cutouts can be just a little too large for many trucks.
The premium version here is a lot more durable than the less expensive counterpart, though. The pump is built-in and can run as soon as the air starts to leak out, keeping it inflated throughout the night, and the material is thick enough to withstand a lot of abuse. Without going completely airless and getting something like the Xprite mattress, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more reliable bed.
Our Thoughts
The Pittman Outdoors AirBedz Pro3 is a premium product, and it has a premium price tag. It carries an even higher price since you need a big truck just to utilize it, and those are never cheap.
It’s totally worth the price if you have a big truck and plan on spending multiple nights away from civilization. The leak-proof, fast inflating bed might even be more comfortable than your home foam and spring unit.

Pros
The integrated pump is fast
The large amount of area, perfect for two (or more) people
The thickest, most comfortable mattress on this list

Cons
Expensive
Only fits in the bed of a full-size truck

4. Most Versatile: Saygogo SUV Air Mattress

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Why we like it: Saygogo’s Air Mattress can be either a backseat mattress or an SUV/Van full-size mattress.
Editor’s Rating:

Fit
Saygogo chose to make this mattress all about fitment. It’s got footwell cushions so you can lay across the entire back of your vehicle uninterrupted. It can also fold up and be inflated in sections, converting it from an SUV style mattress to a backseat style bed.
There are not many vehicles that this bed wouldn’t fit into between the different chambers and the extra footwell cushions. SUVs, vans, and crossovers can easily fit the bed when it’s expanded and sleep multiple people. Small cars can use it as a backseat bed for a single sleeper, pets, or kids.
Finish
The very thing that makes it great also makes it less comfortable than some of the competitors. Each of those chambers is outlined by a deep seam that can cause a lot of discomfort if you get an arm trapped in them.
The thickness is good enough to be comfortable multiple nights, though. As long as you don’t fall into the crack, it’s as good as the Wey & Fly bed we recommend. It’s also fine in terms of durability, and is easy to clean. It’s not as strong as some, but it will outlast most cheap air mattresses.
Our Thoughts
If you aren’t sure about how big a mattress will fit into your car, then grab this Saygogo. It’s bound to fit in some configuration, and it’s wide enough to be used as just a backup guest bed on your floor, even if it doesn’t fit.
We do have a bit of an unusual criticism of the product, though. The ads, instructions, and online support are all terrible. Even the product page includes gems like “Get the warty. with email, a replacement or refund is allowed.” That’s not very confidence-inspiring, if something goes wrong, you are probably on your own. Not the worst thing to say about a product, since it does work, but it’s worth mentioning.

Pros
Versatile
The included pump can be powered in a variety of ways
Wide enough for larger SUVs

Cons
The seam can be uncomfortable when slept on
Documentation, like instructions and online-help, is terrible and full of poor English

5. Best Bed for SUVs: SuitedNomad Double Sleeping Pad

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Why we like it: SuitedNomad’s inflatable mattress is incredibly compact when deflated, so it’s easy to keep in your vehicle.
Editor’s Rating:

Fit
The SuitedNomad is big enough for two people who are comfortable with each other, and it fits most SUVs and Crossovers. In fact, at 4ft wide and over 6ft 5in long, it’s actually a bit bigger than other SUV mattresses.
You can even shoehorn it into smaller spaces. It’s flexible enough and thin enough to conform to nearly any space. The thin flexibility leads to its other big strength when it comes to fitment. You can roll it up to be super compact; it’s easy to justify taking on an adventure since you won’t be sacrificing cargo capacity.
Finish
Like the backpacking mattress we recommend, the SuitedNomad is very thin. That means that other SUV mattresses will be more comfortable. Ones like the Saygogo SUV mattress still fold up fairly compactly, are more comfortable, and just as versatile.
Almost nothing is more durable than the SuitedNomad, though. It’s got a soft cover that is stain resistant and thick enough to keep the rocks from puncturing holes in it. Also, like other thin mattresses, it’s very easy to inflate, even without a pump.
Our Thoughts
Compact mattresses work great for adventuring. They are better than sleeping on a hard surface, even if they aren’t the most comfortable things out there, and they are compact enough that they don’t take up any precious cargo room.
There are just two complaints we have about the SuitedNomad offering. First, it doesn’t come with a good pump. Getting a small, battery-powered pump will serve you a lot better than the bag pump that it comes with.
Second, in their effort to make it more versatile, the SuitedNomad mattress creators decided to chamber it. That makes it easy to fold in half and create a better condition for a single sleeper. Unfortunately, that means there’s a seam running the length of the bed.

Pros
Can either be inflated for one person or two people
Lightweight and extremely portable
Fits securely in the back of most SUVs and Vans

Cons
There are a lot of more comfortable mattresses
“Bag” pump has a high learning curve

6. Best Truck Mattress: Pittman Outdoors AirBedz Lite

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Why we like it: It may not be as thick as its more expensive counterpart, but the Pittman Outdoors Lite is still one of the most comfortable air mattresses you can get.
Editor’s Rating:

Fit
This behemoth of a mattress is only outclassed in size by its more expensive brother, the other Pittman mattress on our list. At 72in by 55in, it’s more than enough surface area for two people and a dog, and at 12in thick, it’s like sleeping on a cloud. A dense, fabric-covered cloud.
This is all fantastic, but only if you have a truck. Like the other Pittman Outdoors bed, the Lite version has cutouts for wheel wells and comes in sizes for short and long beds. You’ll have to double-check your truck bed dimensions, but if you have space, it will make a perfect bed out of your truck bed.
Finish
There are no seams to fall into, and the soft top is comfortable enough to sleep on without a blanket covering. You’ll still probably want one, though, just to keep it clean.
The only thing that might ruin your night is the wheel well cutouts. Unlike the thicker Pittman Outdoors bed, the mattress part that covers the wheel wells is fairly thin. If you roll into it during the night, you might sink down into the cavity. It’s nothing a few strategic blankets can’t fix, but it is something you’ll have to keep in mind.
Our Thoughts
If you have a truck and love camping, these kinds of air beds are the best thing you can get. Couple them with a truck bed tent or camper shell, and you’ve got RV level sleeping comfort for a tiny fraction of the price.
That means the only choice you have to make is whether you get the premium truck mattress we mention or this less expensive one. If you really need the ultimate in comfort, get the thicker Pro3 bed. You won’t be disappointed with the less expensive option, though. It’s still very comfortable, durable, and perfect for camping. Just bring an extra blanket.

Pros
Really comfortable
Big enough to fit two people very comfortably
Inexpensive compared to its rivals

Cons
Wheel well cutouts are too large
You need a truck with a wide bed

7. Best Compact Single Mattress: KingCamp Lightweight Sleeping Pad

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Why we like it: A backpacking roll makes a perfect car mattress to keep in your car for emergencies or a quick overnight trip.
Editor’s Rating:

Fit
It’s only 25in by 74in, which means it will fit in any vehicle with fold-flat seats. They do sell a double-sized version if you need to sleep two people, but the significant benefit to this mattress is the ultra-compact size. If you need to sleep two people, the Wey & Fly mattress costs less and is still reasonably compact when packed away.
Finish
Anyone that has ever been backpacking knows exactly how uncomfortable a backpacking mattress is. It’s better than dirt, but a lot is sacrificed in favor of the compact, lightweight construction. The only advantage of the thin design is that it only takes a few seconds to inflate.
It is long enough for most adults, so it may be more comfortable than backseat beds. It’s also super durable; it’s meant for backpacking after all. If you aren’t totally into ultimate comfort, there is really a lot to love about the KingCamp offering.
Our Thoughts
There are two mattresses on our list that are not car specific: the cheap, good enough Intex Dura-Beam, and this one, the KingCamp Lightweight. They couldn’t be more different, though. The Intex is thick, comfortable, and heavy. It’s also fairly likely to spring a leak since it’s made of thin PVC.
The KingCamp, on the other hand, is thin, made of durable fabric, and can easily be carried around in a backpack. That makes it perfect for people who do the occasional car camping or those who just want to keep an emergency bed around.

Pros
Very compact
Lightweight and easy to store
Easy to inflate

Cons
A bit expensive
Not the most comfortable thing out there

8. Best for Smaller Cars: Caloer Thickened Inflatable Car Air Mattress

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Why we like it: If you have a smaller car or hatchback, the Caloer mattress is the best inflatable car mattress you can get.
Editor’s Rating:

Fit
Like any backseat bed, the Caloer offering comes with two big inflatable pillows that take up the wheel well space and give you a full 34in of width to stretch out on. That’s about the size of a twin mattress, which isn’t enough room for two people but sure as heck beats sleeping on the narrow seats.
It’s also chambered, and the footwell supports detach and can be inflated to different levels. What that means is it’s actually more likely to fit your car than the less expensive FBSport backseat mattress. Still won’t fit into a subcompact or sports car, but everything bigger than a Yaris will have no issue.
The only thing you’ll really wish is that your car was another foot longer. At just over 4ft wide, you will need to employ the fetal position if you are average height.
Finish
It’s in the finish and comfort that the Caloer shines. It’s got extra inflatable cushions to protect you from the bumps and corners of your car. A big side cushion prevents you from rolling onto your center console, and the extra tall headboard will prevent your head from making contact with the door handle.
The Caloer is thicker than other backseat airbeds, and it’s covered in a no-slip fabric, which makes it a lot quieter than, say, the fairly noisy FBsport mattress. All in all, it’s about as nice a bed as can be made in the back seat of a car.
Our Thoughts
What kills the mood when we talk about any backseat bed is the part when we talk about the length. A full-sized adult will never be comfortably crammed into the back area of the cabin. If you have to do it, though, the Caloer mattress is the best way.
It’d better be, though, since you could buy 3 of the FBSport mattresses for the price.

Pros
Durable
Has extra cushions for a headboard and sideboard
The seamless mattress is more comfortable than many competitors

Cons
Expensive for a backseat air bed
Still too short to be a great alternative to a real bed

9. Best Basic Air Bed: Intex Dura-Beam Standard

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Why we like it: There’s no reason a standard air mattress can’t be used inside a car, and the Intex Standard is a very budget-friendly one.
Editor’s Rating:

Fit
It’s a full-size mattress and is not explicitly built for vehicles. The good news is that since it’s not specific to any vehicles, it will fit anywhere with a 53in by 75in space. Camper vans, RVs, big SUVs, flat truck beds, you name it.
A full-size mattress is bigger than every SUV-specific bed on our list, even the highly-rated Wey & Fly offering. That does mean it won’t fit into smaller SUVs, crossovers, or wagons. They do sell a twin sized version if you don’t have space for the full-sized one.
Finish
Let’s be real here: it’s a cheap air mattress. You can probably picture exactly how it feels already. It’s got a weird, pseudo fuzzy top and makes weird noises when you roll around on it. The thickness and width make it really comfortable, though, so it’s hard to hate.
Just definitely don’t expect it to last forever or anything. It’s a cheap air mattress, it will last you through the night, and if you are lucky, it will stay hole-free for a year or so.
Our Thoughts
There’s no reason not to just get a comfortable, cheap air mattress if you have space. The battery-powered pump works anywhere, and the extra size means that you can comfortably sleep two people.
It simply has all the drawbacks of a cheap air mattress too. It’s not a good thing to rely on in an emergency, and it doesn’t have wheel well cutouts or any other features. The battery pump is worth the price alone. If all else fails, you can keep the pump and use it to fill up any of the other mattresses we recommend, like the nearly indestructible SuitedNomad Double.

Pros
Inexpensive
The battery-powered pump is great for travel
Versatile

Cons
No features that make it better for cars
Quality could be better

10. Best Foam Car Bed: Xprite Black NitePad Premium

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Why we like it: The Xprite mattress is a giant foam mattress that pieces together to fill the back of your SUV. It is super comfortable.
Editor’s Rating:

Fit
The Xprite is perfect for most larger crossovers, wagons, and SUVs. At a little under 42in wide and coming in at 70in long, it’ll fit very comfortably in the back of any minivan or SUV, and will fit snugly in the back of CUVs like the Outback and Rav4. They also make a version specifically for the bigger Wranglers, so grab that one if you own a Jeep.
It’s a little tight for two people, but 70in is the height of most doors. If you fit through your front door, the length won’t be an issue, which is nice.
Finish
The Xprite is a bit different than everything else on our list because it’s not an airbed. That does have some drawbacks. Creases run rampant throughout the unit; you can definitely lose an arm between cushion segments that might lead to uncomfortable sleep.
Generally, though, it’s going to be more comfortable than an air mattress of the same thickness. The foam is covered in an easy to clean leather-like material, and the best part is that there is zero chance of springing a leak. Even if you forget to take your boot knife off after a long day of cutting trails, there will still be enough mattresses in the morning to protect your back.
Our Thoughts
There are two reasons to avoid the Xprite NitePad, and they really highlight the advantages of an airbed. First is the price. Even the incredibly luxurious Pittman Outdoors Pro3 air mattress is cheaper. What makes that an extra tough pill to swallow is the Pittman’s comfort far outpaces the Xprite’s; the Xprite just isn’t thick enough to compete.
That brings us to problem number two. The Pittman Outdoors bed is much bigger while inflated, but much, much smaller deflated than the Xprite. Even though the Xprite folds up, it’s easier just to throw all your cargo on top of it and pretend it’s the floor.
The simple fact that it can’t spring a leak might make it the right choice for any overlander, though. Off-road trails are never gentle, so the peace of mind that your mattress will support you at night can definitely be worth paying extra.

Pros
Very comfortable
There’s no chance of an air leak
Easy to clean

Cons
Really expensive
Takes up a lot of space, even stored

Advice, Accessories, and Alternatives
Now that you’re ready to get a good night’s worth of rest in your car, there are a few things that can really improve the experience.
Making Sure it Fits
Don’t worry, you don’t need to measure every inch of your car. You just need to know a few things so you can make sure that the air bed you buy will fit in your car. First, and most importantly, you need to know what kind of vehicle you will stick the bed into. Generally, a bed made for an SUV will fit in most larger vehicles like crossovers, CUVs, and minivans without much trouble.
The other thing you will need to know is the general width, length, and height of the space you will be putting the bed in. Length is the most important measurement, especially for truck bed mattresses. Simply fold your seats down or measure across the back seat so you know the maximum size you can get.
Accessories
To get the most out of your experience, there are some items you should take with you. Most you will already have, but some simple things can be purchased for cheap and really help out.
A pillow. Even though most air beds, including the less expensive mattresses like the Fly & Wey we mention, have inflatable pillows. They are usually pretty bad, so grab your own instead.
A repair kit. The Saygogo, and many other mattresses, come with one, so you might be fine. If not, grab one here. They are cheap, and they are wholly necessary if you are doing multi-day expeditions.
It’s a bit obvious, but you probably want to be warm when you sleep.
You should have water in your car no matter what, but especially if you are planning on spending the night. You lose a lot of water when you sleep, and it’s a good idea to replenish it before continuing on your journey.
Tips
There are a few tips and tricks to help you get the most out of sleeping inside a vehicle. The first thing, though, is perhaps the biggest piece of advice we can give you.
Make Sure to Sleep Where It’s Legal
In most cities, you aren’t allowed to pull off to the sidewalk and sleep the night. If you don’t want to be woken up by your friendly neighborhood police officer, then take a look at local laws before you jump into bed. You can get a bit more information about the legalities of sleeping in your car right here.
There are a lot of spaces that you know will be safe, though. Campsites and dispersed campgrounds are the obvious ones, but most rest stops, Walmart parking lots, and anywhere labeled BLM (Bureau of Land Management) land are good places to park for the night and catch some shuteye.
Additional Tips and Tricks
Once you are sure that you don’t have to face the red and blue flashing sunrise, there are some great things to do to make sure you are as comfortable as possible.
Park so your head will be uphill if you can’t park where it’s level. It makes a big difference for long term comfort.
Be aware that the first time you use an air bed, it will seem like it leaks a lot of air. That’s not the case; it’s just stretching and forming. Re-fill it and try it again before assuming that it’s leaking.
Consider grabbing a battery or foot pump for backup. It beats trying to fill the bed with your lungs if the main pump goes out.
A sheet layer underneath an air mattress can eliminate a lot of squeaks and noises.
Extreme cold will deflate your bed as you sleep on it. If you are snowbound, consider a foam mattress like the Xprite bed we recommend.
Crack the front windows for a little bit of venting. That will keep the air from getting too stale and uncomfortable.
Tell people where you are. If something should happen and someone needs to find you and your car, it’s better that they don’t have to search for too long.
Alternatives

If you read all about air beds and are still not convinced they are for you, then no worries. There are some great alternatives.
Rooftop Tents
We talk about them at length here, but rooftop tents are probably the best alternative to an RV that you can get. They usually come with their own mattresses and mount to almost any vehicle. That way, you can keep your cargo bay for cargo and still maximize your comfort. Truck owners can also find some great tents that fit in the bed of a pickup truck.
Built-in Beds
Whether we are talking overlanders, van-lifers, or the RV crowd, the people who absolutely must rely on a comfortable bed inside a vehicle all have custom-built mattress frames and pads. They cost a lot, but if you plan an expedition across the states in a van, we guarantee it’s cheaper than paying doctors to repair your spine.
Pile of Blankets
The last alternative we’re going to talk about is also the most accessible, but probably the worst for your back. Pillows and blankets can be laid out to make a perfectly acceptable sleeping pad. You will have to contend with the footwells in the backseat area of most cars, and you will have to contend with lumps and pillars in the back of most SUVs. It’s better than just sleeping on the carpeted cargo area, but when an air mattress like the FBSport is the cost of a few lunches, there’s no reason to suffer like that.
Sleep Tight
Whether you are camping or just hiding from your in-laws, a car bed can be the difference between a world of sore muscles and pleasant dreams. Grab one for yourself. Even if you don’t see yourself ever sleeping in your car, they make great extra sleeping spaces for pets and children when you are on the road. They also make a good contingency plan for when everything goes to hell, and you need to survive the Mad Max apocalypse. Just, let’s not hope that happens, no matter how cool the cars seem. More

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