Reviews

We get it. We’ve all been there. You know that there are things like ball-joints that need periodic greasing as part of regular maintenance, or there will be serious consequences down the road. Still, you never seem to get to it.
For many drivers, this comes down to simply not having the right tool for the job. We can help you with that. Keep reading for our picks of the best grease guns to buy for your car in 2020.

How to Choose A Grease Gun
Grease guns dispense grease, but the way they dispense grease can vary wildly. It’s important to get the right grease gun for the jobs you want to do, not necessarily the “best” gun. Here are the things you need to know to determine if a grease gun will suit your situation.
Power Types
The biggest difference between grease guns concerns the way they are powered. The following are the three most common, but there are some weird ones here and there that don’t fit into any category.
Manual
Powered only by “elbow grease,” manual grease guns are portable, cheap, and work for most situations. You’ll get a serious workout if you have a lot of fittings to grease, though.
Manual powered grease guns come in two different styles. Lever style guns can build a lot of pressure and are better for heavier duty applications. Check out this one we recommend.
Pistol style grease guns, like our number one pick, are easier to use than lever-style ones. Mostly because you can operate them one-handed. They take longer to build pressure and usually can’t build higher pressures like the lever style ones. They do tend to be cheaper. The lower cost and easier operation make pistol style grease guns the most common guns you’ll come across.
Pneumatic
In ye olden days of, well, not that long ago, air-powered grease guns were the choice of shops and professional mechanics everywhere. If you have to do a lot of greasing, letting an air compressor do all the actual work makes a lot of sense. You do, however, need an air compressor and a hose to be attached too. Those limitations have led to battery-powered guns taking over as the gold standard. They are still prevalent in small and medium shops and are very reasonably priced. Just check out this Azuno product we recommend.
Battery Powered
Battery-powered grease guns combine manual style guns’ portability and convenience with a pneumatic gun’s wrist saving automation. Battery technology has advanced to the point where these guns last through an entire workday on a single charge and have the power to rival anything else. The only reason that everyone doesn’t own one is the price. Even inexpensive battery-operated grease guns like the DeWalt we recommend are still hundreds of dollars more than their hand-powered competitors.
Size
After you’ve decided how much labor you want to do, you have to decide how much grease you need to do the jobs you have.
Tiny- There are grease guns made for very small jobs. The Astro Pneumatic on our list is the perfect companion for assembling motors.
Small- Standard grease tubes come in two sizes: 3 oz and 14 oz. 3 oz guns like our budget pick are perfect for small jobs and the occasional bigger job.
Medium- This group describes most trucks, small tractors, and shop machinery. Most guns, like our overall pick, fit this category.
Large- If you need to put out a lot of grease in a short amount of time, guns like the Milwaukee we recommend can really put out a lot of grease.
Putting it All Together
Take a moment and really consider what kind of jobs you will need to do with the gun. If you just have a car that needs some suspension work every so often, a small or medium-sized gun you operate by hand will probably be fine. If you need to work on an entire fleet of vans, you’ll probably want something you don’t have to pump by hand.
Before we get to the reviews, do note that it’s not the right choice to just get the biggest and best. First off, a big grease gun can be really unwieldy if you are working in tight spaces. Second, different types of fittings and application methods require different pressures. We’ll talk more about that in the section at the bottom of the article here, but if you are greasing something like a bicycle, there is a very real possibility that a heavy-duty lever style gun can blow apart the bearings.

Top 10 Best Grease Guns 2020
1. Best Overall Pick: Heavy Duty Grease Gun

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Why we like it: The Bravex Heavy Duty Grease Gun is cheap, easy to use, portable, and durable. That means you have no excuse not to keep up on your maintenance.
Editor’s Rating:

How It Works
The Bravex Heavy Duty Grease Gun is a pistol style gun, which means you operate it by squeezing a big trigger repeatedly. You can use it one-handed, which is really nice if you need to reach into a tight area. It also comes with a few different fittings so you can get the best angle on a grease spot possible.
The Jobs It’s Built For
The Bravex Heavy Duty is a general purpose grease gun. The long hose can get into small spaces, and the 14oz reservoir means you can grease an entire Humvee in one stint. Although, a lever style like this one or a battery-powered deal like this one would be better if you are a Humvee enthusiast. That would save you from the severe hand workout that the pistol-style demands.
Our Thoughts
Don’t know what you need? Get this one. It’s cheap, works in a ton of situations, and is durable enough to last through at least a few years’ worth of tune-ups.
It’s not the best at anything. The pistol trigger-style will leave your hand aching if you have to do a bigger job, and there are definitely higher quality guns that are the same style. The Lincoln pistol type will outlast this Bravex, especially if you are doing a lot of greasing. For the average person, though, the quality is perfect, and the price is even better.

Pros
Inexpensive
Good quality for the price
Very versatile

Cons
There are better options for large jobs
Could be more durable

2. Best Battery Powered Grease Gun: Dewalt 20V Cordless Grease Gun

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Why we like it: DeWalt is one of the most trusted brands in the tool world, so it’s no surprise that they make a really fantastic battery-powered grease gun.
Editor’s Rating:

How It Works
You hook the hose up to the grease fitting you want to fill with grease and then squeeze the trigger. An electric motor will do all the work. Add in the fact that the hose is 42” long, and you have a tool that you don’t even have to hold. Just set it on the ground and pull the hose over to your fitting.
The Jobs It’s Built For
The best thing about a battery-powered grease gun is that you can use it all day without needing to see a chiropractor after. In this case, all day means 16 cartridges per battery charge. If you have not greased things before, just trust us when we say that’s a lot. You could start at one end of your street and start greasing everyone’s car working your way to the other end, and you’d probably still have a charge.
Long story short, if you have to do a TON of greasing, whether it’s tractors or muscle cars, the DeWalt is there to see you through the job.
Our Thoughts
If you don’t have to do a lot of greasing, the DeWalt may be overkill for saving a few minutes of manual labor. This may be worth it to you. Body parts are hard to replace, after all. It’s just that the average person will be able to do everything they could ever want to do with a cheaper, manually operated grease gun without too much effort.
The lever style gun we recommend can build the same pressure, hold the same amount of grease, and costs a quarter of the price.
Those few minutes saved become hours saved if you have a lot of equipment that needs grease, though. You can put the DeWalt unit in your truck, drive out to the field, and grease the tractor, the plow, the blades, and the harvester all on a single charge. That’s pretty damn incredible.
Just be sure to keep it primed and clean.

Pros
Really good value
The battery lasts a long time
Easy to use

Cons
Will jam if you don’t keep the filter clean
Not as expensive as the Milwaukee, but still really expensive for a grease gun

3. Best Premium Pick: Milwaukee Cordless 2-Speed Grease Gun

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Why we like it: There’s no substitute for a good battery powered grease gun when you need to get a lot of work done, and Milwaukee is one of the most famous brands concerning battery power.
Editor’s Rating:

How It Works
To use this grease gun, you hook the hose up to the zerk fitting and you squeeze the trigger. It goes “whirr whirr whirr” and pumps grease at 10000psi. You read that right. That means you have to pay attention, or you will push grease throughout your entire machine in a matter of seconds.
Now we don’t want to be rude, the DeWalt also claims it can do 10k psi, but the hose on the Milwaukee gives you the confidence to actually try it.
The Jobs It’s Built For
This thing is for big jobs. It’s just like the DeWalt, but more hardcore. The pressure is higher, the flow is faster, and the hose is 4ft long instead of almost 4ft long. It even weighs more and has more steel bits. Have an entire fleet of tractors that need greasing every day? No problem, the Milwaukee can burn through 10 cartridges per charge.
Oh, and it can do little projects too. You can dial back the grease output and use it for your dirt bike. You know, after you finish lubing everything else on your block.
Our Thoughts
We are really into being truthful, so we are just going to come out and say this: the DeWalt is a better value. The Milwaukee system is expensive, the battery doesn’t last as long, and it’s heavier. If you are on the fence, get the DeWalt battery gun.
There are two main reasons to get the Milwaukee grease gun over the yellow one, though. First, if you value quality over everything else and are willing to pay the extra one hundred dollars for it, go for it. You won’t be disappointed. Second, you already have a bunch of Milwaukee tools, and you won’t have to buy batteries. We know how fierce brand loyalty can be. If you are already a fan of Milwaukee tools, don’t let us or DeWalt come between you and the M18 system.

Pros
The hose is really nice
Durability is unmatched
Can build a ton of pressure

Cons
Expensive
The battery doesn’t last as long as the DeWalt

4. Best Heavy-Duty Manual Grease Gun: Alemite 500-E

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Why we like it: Lever action guns like the Alemite 500-E allow you to make maximum pressure with minimal effort. It’s an indispensable tool if you have bigger vehicles or tractors.
Editor’s Rating:

How It Works
Unfortunately, by starting with the way it works, we are starting with the worst part about it. To fully utilize a lever action grease gun, you need three hands. One to hold the fitting, one to hold the gun, and a third to actuate the lever. Last time we checked, most people don’t have three hands, so you end up compromising and doing things like holding the hose in place with your hip. You’ll just wish the hose was long if you are using the hip method. It’s easier to get in close with other grease gun styles, the lever style works better further away.
The good news is that extra leverage makes it really easy to operate. You don’t have to use much effort to work the lever, especially compared to a pistol style gun, and it builds way more pressure in the same amount of time.
The Jobs It’s Built For
Really, at its core, the Alemite is just another general-purpose grease gun. It’s good for everything the Bravex gun is good for. It’s just a lot more industrial. Rusty, clogged fittings that have been abused for years will benefit from the extra pressure that the Alemite can generate, and the ability to use all sorts of loading methods means you can load the gun using barrels of bulk grease.
Our Thoughts
In the world of grease guns, there are some bigger players. Lincoln is probably the most well-known, and we do recommend both their pneumatic and pistol style grease guns. Alemite is a lot like Lincoln in terms of quality, but they tend to be a bit more hardcore in terms of function.
That comes through in a few ways. First, they build their guns around bulk loading. You can use cartridges, sure, but you can also use a loading pump, unlike many guns. It’s a tool, available here, to pull grease directly into the gun from bulk pails in a short amount of time.
Second, this particular lever-actuated gun can build 10000psi of pressure. That’s the same amount of pressure as the very expensive Milwaukee electric unit. You can blow apart bearings if that’s what you want to do for some reason. We don’t recommend it, but it makes for good visual representation.

Pros
Easily builds a lot of pressure
Less tiring to use than a pistol style
Good quality

Cons
Needs two hands to operate
The hose could be longer

5. Best Budget Pick: Horusdy Mini Pistol Grip Grease Gun

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Why we like it: The Horusdy Mini is small enough to get into any space, cheap enough to buy as a backup, and generates enough pressure to fill most automotive components with grease.
Editor’s Rating:

How It Works
It works just like any other pistol style grease gun in basic function. However, unlike standard guns like the Bravex, the reservoir tube is the handle. That makes it a lot more compact. You couple that with the fact that it’s only a 3oz reservoir instead of a 14oz, and you have a lightweight, easy to use gun that can fit almost anywhere.
The Jobs It’s Built For
The 3oz reservoir means that you really won’t want to use this for a project that needs a lot of grease. It’s perfect for small jobs and the occasional medium job, though. You have a go-kart that needs a full service? It’s fine for that. Greasing the suspension on your Honda Civic? No problem. Greasing an entire backhoe? You’d be way better off with something like the Lincoln gun here, but it can do it.
That’s the big advantage of the Horusdy Mini over other tiny grease guns. It is compatible with standard zerk fittings, so you can use it on bigger machines. There isn’t really enough pressure for heavy equipment unless they are in pristine condition, and it holds so little that it will take forever, but it can be used in a pinch.
Our Thoughts
A little gun like this is the absolute perfect thing to keep in a toolbox at all times, even if you have another larger gun. It can be used in most situations; it’s just not the best for large jobs. That makes it the perfect backup.
Of course, if you only need to do small projects, you don’t need to treat it as a backup. It can just be your main grease gun, and that’s awesome because they are really inexpensive. Just do your sanity a favor and don’t read any of the instructions it comes with. Watch a YouTube video instead, like this one.

Pros
Easy to operate
Fits neatly into most toolboxes
Inexpensive

Cons
Not enough pressure for using on heavy equipment
Only holds a 3oz cartridge

6. Best Pneumatic Grease Gun: Lincoln 1162 Fully Automatic Grease Gun

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Why we like it: If you have access to an air compressor, there’s no reason not to make your life easier by using a pneumatic grease gun. Lincoln just happens to make the best one.
Editor’s Rating:

How It Works
To use an air-powered gun, you first have to connect it to an air hose connected to an air compressor. You need at least 60psi to really make the grease gun work well. Then just connect the gun to a grease fitting and squeeze the trigger.
The nice thing about the air-powered guns is that they are a lot more lightweight than the battery-powered equivalents. Usually, if you have a unit like the DeWalt gun we mention, you’ll want to set the gun down in the dirt, attach the hose, then reach down and squeeze the trigger. The Lincoln Pneumatic Gun is much easier to use than a standard grease gun. Just lift it up with one hand, attach, and squeeze.
The Jobs It’s Built For
A pneumatic gun is really a shop tool. Since you need to power it with an air compressor, it’s not portable like all the other types are.
That being said, if you have an air compressor, you can work all day without succumbing to fatigue. It’s lightweight, can dispense grease continuously, and is really easy on your hands to use. If you have a lot of equipment that needs servicing or just don’t want to put the sweat into the job, a pneumatic gun is a great investment.
Our Thoughts
Lincoln is famous for its lubrication tools. If you ask around any job site or shop, you’ll find a lot of loyalty to the brand. That’s because they make great products and have for a long time. They even have the honor of being the only brand to appear on our list twice. First with this entry, and again with their high-quality manual powered gun here.
The only thing that can let you down is the tip. The hose fittings are not standard, so grab another one like this one here to make your life easier. Truthfully, and we’ll say it again in the tips and tricks section, you should consider doing that for any grease gun.

Pros
Lightweight, especially compared to the battery-powered brethren
Easy to use
Good quality

Cons
You need an air compressor to use it
The fittings could be better

7. Best High-Quality Pistol Grease Gun: Lincoln Lubrication 1134

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Why we like it: The Lincoln Pistol Grip is the perfect rebuttal for when someone complains that tools don’t last as long as they used to.
Editor’s Rating:

How It Works
Like any pistol style grease gun, you connect the hose and squeeze the trigger repeatedly. The Lincoln is a bit harder to squeeze, though, so you will get tired quickly if you have to do a ton of greasing. That extra work translates into extra pressure, so even though it takes more work to operate, you might be done faster. It’s tough to know whether you’ll burn more calories working an easier pump for longer periods or using a harder pump for less time.
The Jobs It’s Built For
Like the Bravex grease gun, this Lincoln is a standard, general-purpose tool. It will grease your lawnmower, and it will grease your Camry and your Peterbilt. The one advantage that the Lincoln has over other, similar style pistol grip grease guns is that it can build more pressure.
The pressure itself isn’t really the advantage; it’s all about the extra control that affords you. If you really need high pressure, get a lever style unit like this one, the extra 1500psi that the Lincoln offers over the Bravex won’t do much for stuck fittings. It will make it a lot easier to control how much grease you are putting into a fitting since you won’t have to go full force all the time.
Our Thoughts
We said it before here, but we will repeat it. Lincoln makes great products. If you want a grease gun that you can rely on for years and years, here it is. The hose is exceptionally high quality. That’s the first thing to break on most grease guns. Either cracks start to form around the fittings or splits begin to form where it bends for storage. The hose on the Lincoln is reinforced and extra durable.
It is more expensive. The price of quality is never low, so that’s expected. What isn’t as expected is that this gun might fight you a little bit. The springs are harder, and the whole thing is more intense, for lack of a better word. That can make loading it with grease and reassembling it takes more patience than other devices like the Bravex gun. Not the end of the world; just add some aromatherapy candles to your shop or something.

Pros
High-quality
Builds great pressure, especially for the style of gun
Easy to fines in the right amount of grease

Cons
Can be tricky to load
Expensive

8. Best for Small Parts: Astro Pneumatic Tool 101 Mini Grease Gun

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Why we like it: The Astro Pneumatic Mini is perfect for lubricating small parts. It’s like a grease gun that greases the parts of bigger grease guns.
Editor’s Rating:

How It Works
To use the Astro Pneumatic Tool, you first have to fill the reservoir with grease. To do that, you remove the metal cylinder and pack it full of grease by hand. We suggest using a tongue depressor; they work great as mini spatulas. There’s a great video featuring a very similar design by RJ the Bike Guy showing the process here.
After you reassemble it, prime it with a screwdriver. Just watch the video; it’s hard to explain. You dispense the grease by pumping on the button on the back. It’s easy to use one-handed, get grease into tight spots, and get small quantities onto parts.
The Jobs It’s Built For
It’s built for lubricating small things, like bike parts, or smearing a bit of assembly lube on bolts. Especially on stuff that is recessed into an area where you would normally try to poke your fingers into, and then give up and get a Q-tip and trap a bunch of loose cotton fibers into a bearing race. Don’t do that. Just get one of these little guns. You can stick the little needle right into tight areas and apply a perfect, clean dollop of grease.
The one thing to note is that these types of grease guns, including another one on our list here, do not snap onto standard grease fittings. They will not replace your bigger guns.
Our Thoughts
For less than $15, you can significantly cut down on the amount of mess you make assembling things on your bench. That’s worth it alone, but for the average home mechanic, there’s another reason. One that might make this the best sub $20 tool you buy this year.
If you have it, you will use it to keep your tools lubricated. Oiling and greasing tools is something that so many people neglect, but it’s essential if you care about keeping your tools working well for long periods. Have you ever had a fight with an adjustable wrench? Put a dot of grease on the screw, and you’ve won the battle.

Pros
Tiny and very precise, perfect for small applications
Holds 3oz of lube (that’s a good amount for a tiny tool)
Easy to operate one-handed

Cons
Can be annoying to load
Can’t be used with standard zerk fittings

9. Best Inexpensive Pneumatic Grease Gun: Azuno Pneumatic Grease Gun

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Why we like it: The Azuno Pneumatic Grease Gun strikes a great balance between much more expensive automatic guns and cheaper manual guns.
Editor’s Rating:

How It Works
It works the same as the Lincoln pneumatic grease gun; it’s just heavier and a bit harder to bleed. You hook an air hose connected to a 90psi air source up to the grease gun, then connect it to a grease fitting and squeeze the trigger.
The big thing that separates the Azuno from the Lincoln gun when it comes to operating is the hose end fitting. Azuno includes a quick connect fitting on the end of the hose. It’s a little spring-loaded tool that replaces the standard hose end and makes your life way easier since it locks onto a zerk fitting much more secure than a standard end. We wish more companies did that. It’s surprising to see one on a budget gun.
The Jobs It’s Built For
We called the Lincoln pneumatic grease gun the perfect gun for a shop. It’s great for pumping out a lot of grease, it’s great for saving your wrist, and as long as you have an air supply, it’s effortless to use. Fleets of vans are no match for a good pneumatic grease gun.
The Azuno gun is no different in function, but you won’t feel bad leaving it outside in the dirt.
Our Thoughts
For a budget gun, this thing is amazing. It comes with a quick connector at the end of the hose, just like we would otherwise recommend buying separately, and it does everything it advertises on the box. Sure, it’s not as high pressure or as nice to hold as more premium products like the Lincoln pneumatic, or even the Bravex hand pump.
But dang, it’s an excellent gun that is much cheaper than any of the big-name pneumatic guns and is almost 1/10th the price of the big battery-powered units. If you have an air compressor already, and do a lot of suspension work, it’s legitimately hard to find a reason not to give this Azuno a try.

Pros
Inexpensive
Great, easy to use end fitting
Easy to operate

Cons
Doesn’t build much pressure
You need an air compressor to use it

10. Best Injection Grease Gun: Finish Line Grease Injection Gun

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Why we like it: The Finish Line Injection Gun is dead simple and super tiny. It’s perfect for greasing bolts or bicycle parts.
Editor’s Rating:

How It Works
At first glance, it looks a lot like the Astro Mini. That’s because the purpose is mostly the same, it’s a precision grease applicator.
The way you get the grease though the needle is totally different, though. Instead of taking off the barrel and packing it with grease, you just screw the gun onto a tube of grease. You don’t prime it with a screwdriver; you just squeeze the tube. It’s about the most intuitive tool on this list. Screw it on, pump grease out.
The Jobs It’s Built For
The gun itself is built with bicycle mechanics in mind. The small needle can get right into the tiny areas between gears and cables. That doesn’t mean you have to use it for bicycles, though. Just like with the Astro Mini, it’s great for assembly, for lubricating tools, and for general purpose greasing.
Our Thoughts
Finish Line’s mini grease gun is only unique in that it’s streamlined for use on a grease tube. That eliminates the mess of filling up a container.
Unfortunately, it’s worse in almost every other way than the Astro Tools or similar canister grease guns. The build quality is bad; grease will leak out of places it shouldn’t, and if you drop it off a bench, it will probably break.
If convenience is the absolute most important thing to you, pick this thing up. It’s tiny, intuitive and you don’t have to worry about packing and priming grease. Just don’t step on it.

Pros
The unique loading system is very intuitive
Very compact

Cons
Quality could be better
Only works with grease tubes

All About Grease Guns
Using a grease gun can sometimes feel like voodoo. They’ll stop working mid-job sometimes, or they will slowly push grease out long after the trigger is released. In this section, we will talk about how the guns work, how you can make them work better for you, and some tips to take the voodoo out of the process.
What Is a Zerk Fitting?

When you talk about grease, you’ll see the word zerk thrown all over the place. A grease zerk, or grease fitting, or if you are old-school, an Alemite fitting, is the modern connection point for grease guns. It’s basically just a ball check valve that’s only ¼” in diameter. The end of a grease gun connects right to it so you can pump grease into whatever component is on the other side of the fitting. It’s called a “Zerk” because of the guy that invented it. If you really want to know more, here’s the wikipedia entry. It’s actually pretty interesting.
Filling a Grease Gun With Grease
Except for a few specialty tools, like the Atro Mini we recommend, most grease guns can be filled in one of two ways.
Cartridges
A grease cartridge will be the way that 90% of people get grease into their grease guns. Some guns, like the smaller Horusdy Mini we recommend, can only use grease cartridges. Grease cartridges come in a few different sizes, but most guns are designed to either use a 3oz or a 14oz cartridge.
Cartridges are good because they are clean and easy. You can swap grease types easily without cross-contamination, and since each one comes sealed, there’s no chance of getting debris mixed in. They are a bit more expensive, so over time, you spend a lot more than bulk filling if you are doing a lot of lubricating.
A Quick Tip Concerning Cartridges
Here’s the big pro tip we can give you about cartridges, and after you know it, you can spend hours laughing at the negative review sections of any grease gun listing. Cartridges have two ends: one end is capped, the other end has an aluminum lid. Take the cap off, and put the tube into the grease gun barrel with the aluminum lid up. There’s a lip on the top of the tube that locks it in place when the gun is assembled.
Pull the aluminum lid off with a screwdriver or your fingers if you have fingernails, and you are ready to go. Re-assemble the gun, prime it, and enjoy a laugh at the expense of all the people who put the tube in backward and ended up with a gigantic mess.
Bulk Fill
There are two easy to fill a grease gun from a big bucket of grease. The first is with a tool that fits on top of the bucket that forces the grease into the gun using air or a lever. If you work in a big shop or own lots of tractors already, you probably already have one. If you don’t, just know that the fill tool is a lot more expensive than any grease gun and takes a very long time to pay off.
The second method is to use the fill tube to suck grease out of the bucket. This is one of those cases where it’s just way easier to see it than explain it, so just take a look at this video. He’s got a funky clear grease tube that makes it really easy to see what’s going on.
Tips for Getting the Most Out Of Your Grease Gun
Ok, you have the gun, you’ve located the zerk fittings you need to access, and you’ve filled the gun with grease. Great, here’s a bunch of tips to make the rest of the process smoother.
Buy a better end. Your life will be so much better with a better grease end, like this one. Just trust us.
Learn to bleed your gun. This is one of the times you need to read the instructions since each gun is different. After you read the instructions, bleed the gun. 90% of the time, when someone can’t make a gun work, it’s because there is air in it. There is air in it because they didn’t bleed it right.
Use the right grease. The best way to know what grease to use is to google it or ask the clerk at any store that sells the grease. The standard types are pretty self-explanatory: High-speed wheel bearing grease is for high-speed bearings, wheel hub grease is for wheel hubs, etc.
Keep everything clean. It feels like we say this in every single article, and it never gets less important. Keep the fittings clean, keep the gun clean, and keep your workspace clean.
Be aware of over-doing it. This is another point that will require some research on your part, but lots of things are easy to over grease—especially bearings. The “grease it until it leaks” method is ok for some things, but bearings can be damaged by being overfilled.
Grease more often. We don’t know anyone that does it, but most professionals recommend greasing the ball joints on your car every six months. Most heavy equipment has detailed maintenance schedules printed in their manuals, but sometimes passenger cars and trucks won’t. A simple google search will usually fill in any missing information.
Grease Now, Save Later
No one wants to spend all day greasing a truck, but at least you can make the job as easy as possible by choosing the right tool for the job. Isn’t it annoying how no matter what, that’s always the case? Like, it doesn’t matter what you do, everyone always says that you should use the right tool for the job, and then you have flashbacks to your father scowling at you as you round off another bolt trying to use a pipe wrench to take off a valve cover? That’s just us? Anyway, remember to bleed the gun, grease things more often rather than less often, and keep the area clean. Happy lubricating. More

Ah, winter. A time of fulfillment and joy, Christmas spirit and wrapping toys. Holiday cheer and good times abound, short days and long nights with fluffy white all around. Winter’s great, isn’t it? Well, until you’re stuck shoveling snow and scraping your car every morning in the frigid cold.
If you aren’t looking forward to snow shovels, slick roads, and frosty windshields, you’re in good company. We can’t shovel your driveway for you or clear the roads, but when it comes to frost guard windshield covers, we’ve got you covered.

Factors to Consider When Buying a Frost Guard Windshield Cover
The first thing you should consider when deciding whether or not to buy a frost guard windshield cover is deciding if you actually need one or not. To help you figure this out, we have a short checklist that can help you decide if such a product is right for you:
If you answered yes to at least one of these questions, then you might want to consider buying one. Now assuming you do, there are a few things you should consider when looking for a frost guard.
Types of Fittings
You’ll want to pay attention to the type of fittings it comes equipped with. Many guards come equipped with multiple styles, each of which will determine how well it stays secured to your vehicle through hail and gale, snow and rain.
Side Mirror Straps
The most common type of fixture for frost guards, these are usually elastic straps that either loop around your mirror or attach to built-in mirror covers. Be wary of guards that only utilize these elastic straps, as they are susceptible to failure from cold and direct sunlight.
Magnets
Frost guards sometimes utilize small pouches that contain magnets that stick to the metal body of your vehicle. These will not only help keep the guard in place, but they’ll also prevent the cover from ballooning under windy conditions.
There are potential issues with magnets, so you’ll want to check out our section on these issues if you’re considering a guard that utilizes magnets.
Door Flaps
Door flaps are a standard on most frost guards. They help keep the guard in place, but they don’t just keep the wind from taking your guard – they help prevent people from taking it as well.
Like magnets, they are commonly effective, but they present a unique danger to your car under certain weather conditions. With the potential for water to make its way inside your vehicle, you need to be careful about when you choose to use them.
We’ll talk about this more later, but if you want a frost guard that doesn’t have this issue, you might want to check out the Marksign Windshield Cover.
Wheel Hooks
To add extra stability to the cover, some frost guards utilize hooks that attach to the rims of your wheels. Having an extra point of contact with your vehicle will help ensure the wind doesn’t undermine your efforts to keep your window clear of snow and ice.
Size
How many times have you heard the phrase “size doesn’t matter”? Well when it comes to frost guard windshield covers, size certainly does matter. It can mean the difference between buying an effective frost guard and a frigid fight with your vehicle to reclaim your frost guard.
The size of the guard not only impacts how much of your windshield it covers, but how well it adheres to it. A guard that’s too big or small might allow water to permeate the underside of the guard, and in cold conditions, that means the guard may freeze to your windshield.
To ensure you’re getting a properly fitted frost guard, remember to always measure your vehicle’s windshield before buying one. We sincerely can’t stress this enough.
Material
Many frost guards are made from similar materials, mostly consisting of PVC, PEVA, and sometimes nylon. A lot of them also contain cotton for insulation. Sometimes aluminum foil is also used as a reflective outer material and works well for guards that aim for year-round use.
Ease of Use vs Stability
While all frost guards are relatively easy to use and will save you the hassle of scraping your windshield, some may require more work than others. If you live in a more temperate climate, you might want something that’s easier to use. Conversely, if you live somewhere that’s frequently windy, you might consider stability over convenience.
Ease of Use
We consider a frost guard easier to use when it utilizes fewer connection mechanisms that make setting it up more difficult and time-consuming. Something like the FrostGuard Plus only has door flaps, decreasing the time you’ll spend adding or removing it from your vehicle.
Stability
A guard that has more connection mechanisms, though, such as the Laptom Windshield Snow Cover, is more stable than a guard like the FrostGuard Plus. This stable cover is capable of withstanding high winds and blizzards better than a guard that only secures with door flaps. The trade-off here is that more stable guards take longer to put on or take off.
Something like the FrostGuard NFL Windshield Cover is a good middle ground option that effectively balances ease of use with stability.
Now, let’s review the best frost guard windshield covers we’ve found.

Top 10 Best Frost Guard Windshield Covers 2020
1. Best Overall Frost Guard: OxGord Windshield Snow Cover

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Why we like it: It’s quick and easy to use, and traps heat to prevent ice formation. The company also offers rear window covers as well.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Fittings: Side mirror straps, door flaps
Size: 75”L x 42.25”H
Material: 600D polyester and PVC
Anti-theft protection: Yes
Storage bag: Yes
The OxGord Windshield Snow Cover is a frost guard that promises to be both durable and simple to use. The company also has a rear window guard available separately, something other manufacturers on our list don’t appear to offer. Making this additional purchase can further reduce the amount of work you’ll need to do to clear your car in the cold weather.
Ease of Use
Thanks to its simplicity, all you need to do is loop the side mirror straps around the mirrors and shut the flaps into the door. With no magnets or hooks, you don’t have to worry about it scratching your vehicle’s paint.
Stability
Made with 600D polyester and PVC, the windshield cover portion of this frost guard is tough and should weather any storm, but its elastic straps are concerning. Since they are one of two points of contact, it means that if they break, the cover loses a lot of effectiveness. This is a problem with all elastic bands, so you’re essentially trading stability for convenience with a cover like this.
If convenience is a secondary issue for you, you may consider another frost guard, such as the Laptom Windshield Snow Cover. Having extra connection mechanisms, Laptom’s guard is not quite as convenient as this guard, but its added points of security can ensure it stays effective for longer.
Additional Considerations
In addition to its high price, the sizing of this guard is concerning. Like us, the company recommends you measure your windshield before making a purchase. However, the company’s measurement of 75 inches in length includes the door flaps, meaning the windshield portion of the guard is actually smaller.
It’s also not suitable for larger vehicles, such as a Ford F-150. In that case, you might consider a larger guard like the Marksign Windshield Cover. Like our previous recommendation, it might not feature the same convenience as this guard, but it will provide better coverage for large vehicles.

Pros
Made of thick, strong polyester
Outer layer traps heat to keep windshield from freezing
Quick and easy to use
Company also makes a rear window cover

Cons
Doesn’t provide accurate measure of windshield guard
Not as stable as some other guards
Not suitable for larger vehicles

2. Best Premium Frost Guard: Laptom Windshield Snow Cover

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Why we like it: It trades convenience for stability, making it great for tumultuous weather.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Fittings: 2 tire, door, and side mirror straps (with mirror covers), 4 magnets, interior buckle
Size: 85″L X 50″H
Material: PEVA, cotton, and non-woven fabric
Anti-theft protection: Yes
Storage bag: No
Of all the frost guards we’ve reviewed on this list, the Laptom Windshield Snow Cover has to be the most stable and well-rounded product on the list.
Ease of Use
The major drawback to this guard is that it’s not as easy to use as other guards on the list. While frost guards like the OxGord Windshield Snow Cover are super quick and simple to use, this guard from Laptom is a bit more of a pain.
Using the interior buckle is optional, but having to properly secure tire straps, mirror covers, and properly placing the magnets on your vehicle means it’ll take a bit longer than simply slipping a couple of elastic bands over the mirrors and shutting a couple of flaps into the driver and passenger doors.
Stability
What it lacks in convenience it more than makes up for in stability. The part that covers the windshield is a 3-layer combination of PEVA, cotton, and a non-woven fabric. With multiple points of contact with your vehicle, as well as an easy-to-use interior buckle providing extra security from both high winds and theft, it can easily justify the added inconvenience if it means you’re left with a more effective guard than others on the list.
Additional Considerations
We really like that this guard includes magnets on both the top and bottom of the guard, rather than just one or the other. However, it would benefit from including at least one more on each side, for greater security and to prevent ballooning during windy conditions.
Still, it’s one of the best frost guards we’ve found in terms of stability. At its competitive price, it’s well worth the investment to avoid needing to scrape your windshield.

Pros
Has many points of contact to keep it stable
Magnets on top and bottom
Luminous mirror strips for street parked cars
Interior buckle for greater security

Cons
Takes longer to set up than some other guards
Not enough magnets on each side

3. Best Budget Frost Guard: Shynerk Magnetic Edges Car Snow Cover

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Why we like it: It works well in both cold and warm weather, and it’s an inexpensive alternative to similar types of frost guards.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Fittings: 2 tire straps, door flaps, 4 magnets
Size: 82″L x 48.8″H
Material: Polyester
Anti-theft protection: Yes
Storage bag: Yes
If you’re a thrifty consumer who wants to avoid shelling out some cash as much as you want to avoid scraping your windshield, then the Shynerk Magnetic Edges Car Snow Cover is a worthy consideration. It’s light, portable, and works well during both the cold and warm months. For the price it’s also quite large, and should work well with all but the largest vehicles.
Ease of Use
With its inclusion of both magnets and tire straps, it’s fairly easy to use. Since this guard is rather thin, it can make it a bit of a pain to put on during windy conditions. By including a couple of side mirror straps, this issue could easily be mitigated, but it’s relatively easy to put on during windless weather conditions.
Stability
In terms of stability, this guard works adequately. With a combination of tire straps, door flaps, and roof magnets, it should withstand all but the worst storms, making it a great choice for moderate climates.
Additional Considerations
Despite this guard having 4 magnets, all of them are located near the roof. This guard could stand to include more, particularly on the bottom half, to help decrease the likelihood of ballooning. Because of this, we can’t really recommend this if you live in a windy area. (Instead, check out the more expensive Laptom Windshield Snow Cover.) However, if you live in an area with a more forgiving climate, then this guard from Shynerk is a great budget option for you.

Pros
Inexpensive for thrifty consumers
Suitable for year-round use
Larger than a lot of other guards

Cons
Difficult to put on in windy conditions
Susceptible to ballooning in high winds

4. Best Magnet-Free Frost Guard: Fedciory AutoClub Car Windshield Snow Cover

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Why we like it: A good magnet-free alternative to similar frost guards that will stay attached to your vehicle through the worst weather.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Fittings: 2 tire, door, and side mirror straps (with mirror covers), interior buckle
Size: 87″L x 50″H
Material: PEVA, cotton, and non-woven fabric
Anti-theft protection: Yes
Storage bag: Yes
The Fedciory AutoClub Car Windshield Snow Cover is another great frost guard that aims to keep your windshield clean. It’s another competitively priced offering that has a few minor benefits and drawbacks over competing products.
Ease of Use
Since this guard is very similar to the Laptom Windshield Snow Cover, it’s safe to say it’s equivalent in terms of ease of use. It trades convenience for stability, which is great if you’re looking for a guard that utilizes multiple points of contact to keep it secured to your vehicle.
Stability
In terms of overall stability, this is where the guard shines. With tire, door and side mirror straps, and the internal buckle for extra security, this cover should remain attached to your vehicle through the windiest conditions. With interior buckles it will be difficult to steal, and it won’t blow off of your vehicle.
However, unlike the Laptom guard, it does not have any magnets in it – this could be either good or bad, depending on your preferences. Having no magnets, it leaves a greater possibility of ballooning that could allow water to find its way under the guard.
Additional Considerations
One significant drawback we’ve noticed with this guard is that the interior buckles aren’t adjustable. For large vehicles, this likely isn’t a problem. But it may cause problems with smaller vehicles, as it can cause the cover to sit loosely against the windshield, thereby increasing the likelihood of ballooning in windy conditions.

Pros
Priced competitively with other guards
No magnets means no damage from scratching
Highly stable

Cons
Interior buckles aren’t adjustable
Water can get inside in windy conditions

5. Easiest Frost Guard to Use: FrostGuard Plus Winter Windshield + Mirror Covers

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Why we like it: In addition to being sturdy, it’s easier to put on your vehicle than any other frost guard we’ve found.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Fittings: Door flaps, mirror covers
Size: 61″L x 41″H (standard)/68″L x 41″H (XL)
Material: Polyester and PVC
Anti-theft protection: Yes
Storage bag: Yes
Another offering from FrostGuard, the FrostGuard Plus Winter Windshield Cover makes it simple to keep you from having to scrape your windshield in the blistering cold of winter. Available in two sizes and three colors, this cover is slightly larger than its NFL counterpart and comes with a 3-year warranty.
Ease of Use
Perhaps the simplest frost guard we’ve found, the FrostGuard Plus only has one connection mechanism: door flaps that shut in your driver and passenger side doors. With PVC tubes on the left and right sides of the cover, you won’t have to worry about fighting with a guard that doesn’t want to stay unraveled in the wind as you put it over your windshield.
Stability
Just as the other FrostGuard product on our list, the windshield cover is stable. However, unlike the NFL-themed guard, the FrostGuard Plus only secures via door flaps. This seems like a strange design choice for stability, having fewer points of contact with your vehicle. This means the guard solely relies on the door flaps and tubes to keep the guard firmly secured through hell and high wind.
Additional Considerations
The included mirror covers are a nice touch to keep your mirrors clean and clear, though they’re not attached to the rest of the guard. This guard is also a bit short, considering it should cover not only the windshield, but the windshield wipers as well.
That means that for larger vehicles, you may not have the same luxury of keeping your wipers snow and ice-free as smaller cars, especially considering the XL design is no taller than the standard size. Finally, considering the simplicity and oversights of this guard’s design, we expect that it would be more competitively priced.
However, it’s rather expensive for what it is, and at its price-point, it’d be worth considering something a bit more well-rounded. Other options may better suit your needs, such as the Laptom Windshield Snow Cover (if you don’t mind sacrificing a bit of convenience) or the OxGord Windshield Snow Cover (if you want to retain similar convenience with slightly more security). Neither of those guards come with the same stellar warranty as the FrostGuard Plus, but they’re worthy considerations if the price and design flaws of this guard are a concern.

Pros
Easier to put on than any other frost guard
PVC tubes make it easy to put on
Includes mirror covers
3-year warranty

Cons
Sizing is confusing
Mirror covers aren’t attached to guard

6. Best Frost Guard for Large Vehicles: Marksign Windshield Cover

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Why we like it: Larger than most other frost guards, it covers more than just your windshield and secures to all 4 tires.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Fittings: 4 wheel hooks, interior door flaps
Size: 90”L x 60”H
Material: Aluminum foil lamination, PEVA, microfiber cotton
Anti-theft protection: Yes
Storage bag: Yes
The Marksign Windshield Cover tackles windshield coverage a bit differently than other frost guards on our list. That’s because instead of simply covering the windshield, it covers a sizable portion of the roof, hood, and front door windows of your vehicle as well.
It also comes with separate mirror covers, yet utilizes the side mirrors to help anchor the guard in place. Finally, Marksign offers a 3-year warranty on this frost guard, a significant indicator of quality and how well the company believes in its product.
Ease of Use
This frost guard is rather easy to use, thanks to the way it’s designed. It should even be easy enough to put on in windy conditions, thanks to the mirror slots, which will help stabilize the guard while you attach the wheel hooks and door flaps.
Stability
Since it utilizes your side mirrors and wheels to keep the guard on, it should maintain its integrity and stay intact through high winds and bad weather. The hooks are rubber, meaning they might have durability issues compared to metal. But they’re still quite durable, and they’re less prone to scratching your rims.
Additional Considerations
Instead of magnets, this guard has an elastic lining around the edges to keep wind from pulling it up. It’s not totally fail-safe, and you might still find that snow or water can find its way under the cover if conditions are right. On that note, there is one major concern here.
The underside of the guard is a microfiber cotton lining. This is great for your vehicle’s paint, as it’s soft and won’t cause scratching. However, if water makes its way under the cover and freezes to your vehicle, you’re going to have a bad time trying to free it from your roof.
Another noteworthy feature of this guard is its interior door flaps. While most guards have them to prevent theft, Marksign accounted for a common problem with this security measure: water leaking into the car through the door flaps. The flaps being on the underside of the cover means that water won’t have a chance to make its way into your vehicle, should you have the guard on during periods of rainfall.

Pros
Larger than other frost guards
Interior door flaps prevent water from running in vehicle
Cotton lining is safe for vehicle’s paint
3-year warranty

Cons
Cotton lining can easily freeze to vehicle
Outer elastic lining may be ineffective

7. Most Stylish Frost Guard: FrostGuard NFL Windshield Cover

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Why we like it: On top of featuring your favorite NFL team’s logo, it’s sturdy and stable without sacrificing convenience.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Fittings: 4 side mirror straps (with mirror covers), 2 door flaps
Size: 60″L x 40″H (standard)/68″L x 40″H (XL)
Material: PVC
Anti-theft protection: Yes
Storage bag: Yes
If you’re looking for a frost guard that’s effective, stylish, and brandishes your love for football, then look no further than the FrostGuard NFL Windshield Cover. This PVC-based cover amalgamates stability and convenience in a way that few other guards do. In addition to the team logo-adorned windshield cover, it also comes with a matching storage bag. There’s also two sizes available: standard and XL.
Ease of Use
One of the biggest advantages that FrostGuard’s NFL cover features over other frost guards is that it does not sacrifice convenience for stability or vice versa. Despite having multiple mirror straps, it’s really simple to use, even when you’re putting it on by yourself on a windy day, thanks to the weighted rods.
Stability
Those weighted rods we mentioned? They’re great for not only making it easy to put on, but for also keeping the guard stay flush against the windshield. Combined with the thick fabric, multiple mirror straps, and door flaps, it makes for a really solid frost guard that lives up to its promises of keeping your windshield frost-free.
Additional Considerations
Despite the superior combination of convenience and stability this has over other frost guards, the FrostGuard NFL cover is not without its flaws.
First, if you’re considering this product, then you’re probably a football fan. Unfortunately, you might not find a variant of your favorite team. Of the total 32 NFL teams, there are only 17 team variants. Furthermore, if you’re in the market for an XL guard for a larger vehicle, your choices are even more limited, with fewer team variants available in this larger size.
Aesthetic complaints aside, there seems to be an issue with sizing. While many frost guards aim to cover the entire windshield of your vehicle, this one seems to leave a gap on both sides of your windshield – a rather strange design choice. Fortunately, FrostGuard has very clear and concise sizing charts, but even at 68 inches in length for the XL variants, it seems rather small for large vehicles.

Pros
Stylish, stable, and easy to use
Weighted rods help keep it in place
Comes with an NFL bag
Multiple mirror straps for extra stability

Cons
Not all NFL teams are available
Sizing not adequate for all vehicles

8. Best Magnetic Frost Guard: Ice King Magnetic Windshield Cover

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Why we like it: It’s great for windy climates, thanks to the many strong magnets that keep wind from causing ballooning.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Fittings: Door straps (with interior tie straps), 13 magnets
Size: 70″L x 50″H
Material: PVC
Anti-theft protection: Yes
Storage bag: Yes
The Ice King Magnetic Windshield Cover is the king of magnetic frost guards. Featuring 13 rare N52 earth magnets, extremely powerful magnets to keep it attached to your vehicle, this guard is built to withstand high winds and extreme weather. It also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you’ll have ample time to try it before fully committing to it.
Ease of Use
The Ice King guard is a fairly simple cover that’s easy to use as long as you’re not working with it in windy conditions. Since the cover itself is rather thin, it can be difficult to put on during windy conditions.
Stability
This guard is stable enough to weather most storms. The powerful magnets are where this guard really shines, as they should remain in place during blizzards and freezing rain. Combined with the door flaps and interior tie straps, it’s fairly stable.
The only thing we see wrong with this guard is the durability of the fabric separating the magnets from your vehicle. The fabric is rather thin and may wear out quickly compared to other magnetic guards, perhaps from prolonged use in high winds.
Additional Considerations
One of the biggest reasons this guard isn’t higher on the list is because of the dangers it presents to your vehicle’s paint job. With many other frost guards that include magnets, the most common problem is the magnets not being strong enough to weather storms.
Contrarily, the magnets on the Ice King are actually so strong, they can cause deep scratches to your vehicle’s paint if the wind manages to move the guard. Furthermore, the magnets may also lift paint off of your vehicle during the removal process. This isn’t a common problem, but it presents a risk you should consider.
If you have an old beater of a car, or you just don’t care about the paint on your vehicle, then this product is hands-down one of the best on the market. But if you have a shiny new car and want to keep it looking new, you might want to search for something less prone to scratching your vehicle.
For example, the Marksign Windshield Cover might not weather high-wind storms and blizzards as well as the Ice King, but it also presents less of a risk of damaging your vehicle’s paint job.

Pros
Works reliably in windy climates
Lots of strong magnets that keep it in place
Tie straps help prevent theft
30-day money-back guarantee

Cons
Can be difficult to put on in windy conditions
Magnets are strong enough to cause damage
Material covering magnets may wear out quick

9. Best Frost Guard for Year-Round Use: Cosyzone Windshield Snow Ice Cover

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Why we like it: Not only does it work well as a guard against frost and snow, but it’s a great sun shade for the warm summer months.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Fittings: Side mirror straps, door flaps, and 3 magnets
Size: 58.6”L x 47.2”H
Material: Aluminum foil and cotton
Anti-theft protection: Yes
Storage bag: No
The Cosyzone Windshield Snow Ice Cover is another frost guard that’s extremely convenient to use. Built for all types of weather, it works well for both summer and winter months, and comes with a 90-day money-back guarantee.
Ease of Use
In terms of simplicity, this guard places an emphasis on convenience. It might be difficult to put on in windy conditions, but in fair weather conditions, it’s easy and effective. Since it’s a sun-shield too, you won’t have to switch it out seasonally like you would the other guards on this list.
Stability
It’s thicker than some guards, and sure to withstand heavy snowfall and scorching heat, but windy conditions may render it ineffective, especially compared to a guard like the Ice King Magnetic Windshield Cover. While its weak magnets may not work well to secure it in high winds, the magnets also aren’t strong enough to ruin your paint job.
Additional Considerations
This frost guard doesn’t come with a storage bag, so you’ll want to find something to store it in when it’s not in use. It’s also rather small, and thus it’s most appropriate for smaller vehicles. If you own a large vehicle like a truck or SUV, you’re better off with something like the Marksign Windshield Cover.

Pros
Great for year-round use
Good for use in calm weather
90-day money-back guarantee

Cons
Doesn’t come with a storage bag
Not suitable for large vehicles
Won’t hold up in windy climates very well

10. Best Universal Fit Frost Guard: SnowOFF Windshield Snow Ice Cover

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Why we like it: It’s larger than other similar frost guards, and comes in multiple sizes for both small and large vehicles, making it easy to find the right fit.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Fittings: Side mirror and wheel straps, door flaps (with interior suction cups), magnets
Size: 62″ x 50″ (Medium)/74″ x 57″ (Large)
Material: Nylon
Anti-theft protection: Yes
Storage bag: Yes
The SnowOFF Windshield Snow Ice Cover is another frost guard that comes in multiple sizes, both of which are larger than other similar guards we’ve found. Additionally, it’s long enough to cover your windshield wipers, and is the only frost guard with suction cups for your interior. This will help keep the guard secure and will go a little further in preventing theft.
Ease of Use
This guard is fairly simple to use in fair weather, but it may prove problematic in windy weather. With the various mounting methods this guard features, it will also take you more time to put on or take off the guard than others, like the FrostGuard Plus Winter Windshield Cover. However, the multiple mounts will keep it on your vehicle more securely than simpler guards like the FrostGuard Plus.
Stability
While the cover itself seems rather thin, albeit durable, there is a concern with the magnets not being strong enough to hold well on the vehicle. Since there are other mounting mechanisms, it should remain fairly stable, but high winds can render the magnets useless.
Additional Considerations
It comes with bonus gifts that other guards don’t: a microfiber cloth and an emergency thermal blanket. Who doesn’t like free gifts? Unfortunately, it feels as though its inclusion of these gifts are an unnecessary justification of the guard’s high price.

Pros
Larger enough for most vehicles
Comes with free microfiber cloth and thermal blanket
Has suction cups in addition to other mounts

Cons
Expensive, and free gifts feel like an unnecessary justification for higher price
Weak magnets
Relatively thin

Everything You Need to Know About Frost Guard Windshield Covers

So far, we’ve covered most of what you need to know about frost guard windshield covers. However, there are a few more things you should consider. We’ve outlined some potential problems and tips on avoiding common problems.
Problems to Watch Out For
As much as we’d love to suggest that these covers are foolproof products that’ll ensure you’ll never have to scrape ice off your windshield again, that’s simply not true. While they can curtail frosty windshields, problems may still arise.
Here are a few problems you should watch out for, and some solutions to them.
Door Flaps and Water Leaks
Door flaps are a great security measure, both against high winds and petty theft. However, they present an unforeseen problem in the presence of rain.
Because they go into your car doors, they can diminish the effectiveness of the rubber gaskets that keep your doors sealed. This can result in water finding its way into the interior of your car, leading to mold and mildew growth, among other things.
You might think this issue is limited to people with older cars, faulty seals, or loosely closed doors. But even brand new vehicles are susceptible, since vehicles aren’t designed with frost guards in mind.
For this reason, we recommend you try to avoid using these guards during rainfall as the best method for deterring this issue. However, that doesn’t account for unexpected overnight rain or high crime areas where door flaps are necessary. Not using the flaps can also diminish the effectiveness of the guard in general.
An alternative solution would be to test the flaps in a more controlled manner. Dumping multiple large cups of water on the secured door flaps, to simulate the effects of heavy rainfall, can help you determine whether this issue is present for you.
If you find water does not wick into the car through the flaps, then you’re presumably safe. If you do, then you can figure out if there’s a better way to position the flaps to prevent the issue.
Alternatively, you could choose a guard like the Marksign Windshield Cover to bypass this issue completely. It has door flaps located under the exterior cover, preventing water from making contact with the flaps and giving you peace of mind in knowing your cover and vehicle’s interior are safe.
Magnets
Magnets can be a great way to help secure your frost guard to the hood or roof of your vehicle. This can help prevent the guard from ballooning in high winds and help keep water from finding its way under the cover. However, weak magnets may be ineffective and may not hold up against strong winds.
Strong magnets do a better job of keeping the guard in place. However, they can present an issue with scratching or taking paint off of your vehicle. This is most likely to occur if debris sits between the magnets and your vehicle, or if the magnets are drug across the hood or roof.
Like the issue we outlined with door flaps, the best way to bypass this issue is to avoid them altogether. If you’d rather not risk magnets scratching your vehicle, then you might want to consider a guard like the Fedciory AutoClub Car Windshield Snow Cover.
However, you can further alleviate the risk of damage by ensuring the vehicle is free of debris when you place the magnets. You’ll want to avoid dragging the cover across the hood or roof when the magnets are engaged. You should also always check the cover for worn fabric where the magnets are located to ensure the magnets don’t come into direct contact with the vehicle, which may pull up paint or cause scratching.
Elastic Bands and Cold Weather
If you haven’t noticed, none of the covers we’ve included on this list solely rely on elastic bands to keep them in place. This is not only because elastic-only guards would present the risk of theft, but also because the rubber in elastic bands can suffer in cold weather and direct sunlight, and may not hold up to strong winds.
Because of this, we recommend using a frost guard that utilizes multiple points of contact with the vehicle and has a good warranty, such as the FrostGuard Plus Winter Windshield Cover. While the straps aren’t likely to break, you’re covered for 3 years after your purchase in case they do, to ensure you get your money’s worth.
Tips for Frost Guard Windshield Covers
Life is full of little things that we sometimes lose track of. But don’t worry, we’ve got your back. Here are some common sense tips and reminders to help you with your frost guard windshield cover.
Remember to Measure Your Windshield Before You Buy
We mentioned this earlier, but we can’t stress how important it is to get a frost guard that’s appropriately sized for your vehicle. If you buy a one that’s too large or small, then it won’t work effectively, so measuring your windshield could save you money and hassle down the road.
Apply the Cover to a Dry Vehicle
You should make sure your vehicle is dry when putting your frost guard on. That means you might need to wipe down the areas where the cover will sit. If it’s raining or snowing and you can’t keep your windshield dry, think twice about putting it on. Otherwise you might end up with a frozen frost guard.
Freeing a Frozen Frost Guard
Listen, we understand that bad things happen regardless of how many precautions you take. The wind catches your frost guard just right, water makes its way in, and you wake up to your frost guard frozen to your windshield. What do you do?
You certainly don’t want to pull on it too much! Trying to rip a frozen frost guard off your car can ruin your cover and your mood. Instead, try warming your car up as normal and letting the heat melt the ice. If that doesn’t help or you simply can’t wait that long, you can also use a de-icing spray to help with the process (remember to wipe off the guard afterward).
Getting Frozen Wheel Hooks Unstuck
Just like your doors and locks can freeze shut, wheel hooks can freeze to your rims after freezing rain or other severe cold weather. You might be tempted to try to pry them off, but this could be seriously dangerous to you, your frost guard, and your vehicle. Instead, we recommend using a de-icing liquid to safely melt the ice and free the hooks.
Storing Covers That Don’t Come With a Bag
Almost all the frost guards on our list come with a storage bag. However, if you decide on one that doesn’t, you can simply store it in a grocery or garbage bag. It’s certainly not the neatest way to keep your frost guard stored, but it sure beats wet seats. There are also waterproof bags available online, if you’re so inclined.
Final Thoughts
Don’t forget to measure your windshield before buying and consider exactly how much protection you need. Whether you’re looking to protect yourself from a seemingly unending harsh northern winter or just a few weeks of sub-zero temperatures, there’s a frost guard on this list that should fit you and your vehicle perfectly.
Scraping a frosty windshield every morning before work can sure be a pain. That’s why you might want to consider a good frost guard windshield cover. Now that you have an idea of what’s available and what might work best for you, you can find the right cover to keep your windshield frost-free! More

At any age, two-way radios never lose their cool factor. Two-way radios, or “walkie-talkies,” are a fun (and functional) way to communicate with friends, family, or other amateur radio enthusiasts across the country. For a technology that’s been around for over a hundred years, two-way radios are still going strong. They provide users with the nearly unmatched capability to stay in touch with one another in remote areas where cell phone reception can be unreliable —or non-existent.
The two-way radio market is flooded with an astonishing array of products, catering to every possible age demographic, price range, and level of expertise. We’ve extensively researched and sifted through what’s available to bring you the very best walkie-talkies for both adults and kids.
Whether you’re an aspiring member of the (still thriving) ham radio community, looking for the perfect birthday present for your little one, or gearing up for a camping trip or hiking expedition, you’ll be sure to find something on this list that fulfills your particular needs.

Key Considerations When Buying a Walkie-Talkie
While there are a wide variety of bells and whistles to think about when deciding which two-way radio you’d like to purchase, it’s important not to overlook the fundamental considerations common to all these devices. Regardless of what type of walkie-talkie you’re after, the top things you’ll need to think about are:
Power Output
The wattage of your walkie-talkie is perhaps the most important factor to consider, as this determines the signal strength, range, and sound clarity of your device. Buyers should also be aware that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has slightly different rules and regulations for high and low-powered walkie-talkies.
For children, and the great majority of casual adult users, a two-way radio with a 0.5W to 2W power output should more than suffice. Any device at or below this 2W threshold (like the Radioddity FS-T1) is allowed to freely operate on the “Family Radio Service” (FRS) —a short-distance communications band that has been set aside for public usage. While your signal range will be more limited compared to higher powered models, such as the BaoFeng 8 Watt Ham Radio, FRS compliant walkie-talkies do not require a license to operate.
More serious two-way radio users who wish to communicate over longer distances will require a device with a power output above 2W. Walkie-talkies at this power level operate on the “General Mobile Radio Service” (GMRS) communications band. To legally use these public frequencies, users require a license from the FCC. Additional information on the FRS and GMRS systems —and how to obtain a license for the latter— will be detailed below.
Battery Life
As with any mobile device, the battery is one of the most crucial components of a walkie-talkie. Transmitting and receiving radio signals is quite an energy intensive process. Given that fact, it should come as no surprise that one of the biggest problems people encounter with walkie-talkies is their rather limited battery life.
The battery life of your two-way radio will depend on its power output, how frequently you use it, whether or not it’s equipped with any power-saving features, and (perhaps most significantly) what type of battery it uses. Models with rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, like the BaoFeng BF-888S, are by far the best option for prolonged battery life.
Unfortunately, almost every walkie-talkie engineered for the children’s market uses either AA or AAA batteries. Although we’ve only chosen products with the best possible battery life available (such as the Motorola T100 Talkabout Radio) we would still recommend purchasing rechargeable AA or AAA batteries. You’ll be changing them quite frequently if your child uses their walkie-talkie on a daily basis.
Privacy Codes
As there are a finite number of publicly accessible radio channels, you’re likely to run into “interference” if you live in a densely populated area. This happens when two or more radio users within a relatively close proximity to one another accidentally overlap on the same frequency. They will be able to hear and speak to you, and vice versa.
In order to avoid this annoying occurrence, you —and the person to whom you’re communicating— need to use the same “privacy code” on a mutually agreed upon channel. These privacy codes automatically tune out anyone else who happens to be transmitting on that channel so that you can hear each other clearly.
This feature is particularly important for kid’s walkie-talkies. You teach your child not to talk to strangers on the street, and there’s no reason why the airwaves should be an exception to that rule!
All but one of the two-way radios included on this list are equipped to use privacy codes, many of which come preprogrammed on the device for easy plug-and-play use. Privacy codes will also be discussed in further detail below.
Now that you know what to look for, let’s get into our picks for the best two-way radios for beginners, experts, and everyone in between.

Top 10 Best Two-Way Radios 2020
1. Best Overall Radio: BaoFeng UV-5R Dual Band Two-Way Radio

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Why we like it: This radio has ample power and is loaded with special features, all at a remarkably low price point.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
VOX: Yes
Earpiece Included: Yes
Preprogrammed Privacy Codes: No
License Required: Yes
Maximum Range: 2-3 miles
Battery Type: 1800mAh, 8-10 hours, 7.4V rechargeable lithium-ion
Durability: Very good; water resistant; flimsy charging station
In terms of bang-for-your-buck, you aren’t likely to get better value than the BaoFeng UV-5R Dual Band Two-Way Radio. Not only is this compact device extremely economical, it’s also high-powered, programmable, and comes with a great variety of cool extras.
Its substantial 5W power output gives the UV-5R excellent range, and makes it capable of dual band transceiving in the Very High Frequency (VHF) and Ultra High Frequency (UHF) ranges. However, due to its higher power level, you’ll need to get a GMRS license to legally use it. The UV-5R also has a power-saver mode, which turns it down to only 1W. This will significantly prolong its battery life, up to twelve hours or so —though its signal range will be much shorter.
The UV-5R boasts a whopping 128 channels, and can utilize a total of 154 analog and digital privacy codes. Unfortunately, it doesn’t come preprogrammed with these, and the instruction manual can be overwhelming for beginners. To program it on your computer, you’ll need to purchase a specially-designed USB cable and install CHIRP —a free software program for two-way radios.
Other features include an FM Radio (listen only), a built-in LED flashlight, a keypad lock, a broad/narrowband toggle, an emergency siren and blinking light, and a Voice Activated Exchange (VOX) function that enables you to communicate without having to press the Push To Talk (PTT) button every time you speak.
The UV-5R is sturdy and resistant to light rain and splashes, but it isn’t completely waterproof like the ultra-durable Midland GXT1000VP4 Two-Way GMRS Radio. Unlike the device itself, the charging station is rather flimsily constructed.

Pros
High power output
Lots of privacy codes
Very good battery life
Extra features

Cons
Steep learning curve for programming
Flimsy charging station
Sold individually

2. Best Premium Radio: BaoFeng 8 Watt Ham Radio

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Why we like it: It’s extremely high-powered, super durable, and has a great battery life.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
VOX: Yes
Earpiece Included: Yes
Preprogrammed Privacy Codes: No
License Required: Yes (Technician Class)
Maximum Range: 5-10 miles
Battery Type: 3,800mAh, 20 hour, 7.4v rechargeable lithium-ion
Durability: Excellent; water resistant; flimsy charge station
With a massive 8W power output, this BaoFeng product the most powerful two-way radio on this list. Its lithium-ion battery is significantlylarger than its predecessor, making it capable of lasting up to 20 hours on a single charge. It also has 3 different power modes to help conserve the battery. This radio can transmit over 128 channels, and can run a total of 155 analog and digital privacy codes — though you’ll have to program these in yourself.
Combined with this hefty battery (which makes it slightly less portable than the UV-5R), it’s got two antennas (6 and 15 inches) antenna that give it an excellent range of over five miles on the VHF and UHF frequency ranges. It’s a perfect choice if you’re a beginner ham radio enthusiast who wants to connect with FM repeater stations and broadcast over long distances.
It’s outfitted with a reinforced, durable outer shell, which makes it nearly invulnerable to being damaged if dropped from a reasonable height. It’s also water resistant. However, like the UV-5R, its charging station isn’t as solidly constructed as the device itself.
Be warned: the high power output might cause it to interfere with local emergency responder frequencies in your area if you aren’t careful. Before using it, you will need to program it to stay off these particular frequencies.
Because its power output is above 5W, you will need to obtain a Technician Class license in order to legally operate it.
In terms of programming, the manual controls aren’t very intuitive, and the instruction manual can be somewhat mystifying for beginners. Luckily, BaoFeng does offer concierge tech support on this particular model. Similar to the UV-5R, you’ll also need to purchase a special USB cable and install CHIRP in order to program it on your computer.

Pros
Extremely high-powered
Excellent battery life
Highly programmable
Very durable

Cons
Steep learning curve for programming
Possible interference with emergency responder frequencies
Bulky
Sold individually

3. Best Budget Radio: Radioddity FS-T1

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Why we like it: They’ve got great range and sound clarity for a lower powered device at a bargain price.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
VOX: Yes
Earpiece Included: Yes
Preprogrammed Privacy Codes: No
License Required: No
Maximum Range: 5 miles
Battery Type: 1500mAh rechargeable lithium-ion, 2-5 hours
Durability: Good
The Radioddity FS-T1 is a great option for casual two-way radio users who want a good quality device without having to obtain a license from the FCC. For a walkie-talkie with only a 2W power output, it’s got a fairly good range of 2-5 miles, and the sound clarity is excellent within this distance. They come in a set of two.
The FS-T1 is compact and lightweight, making it convenient to carry around in your pocket. The mechanical construction is quite solid and it’s outfitted with a 1500mAh rechargeable lithium-ion battery that should last you through an afternoon of use.
This device doesn’t have an automatic scan function like the BaoFeng UV-5R, so channel surfing is done by turning the mechanical rotary switch channel selector.

Pros
Great range and sound quality
No license required
Economical

Cons
Poor battery life
No LCD screen
Privacy codes don’t sync with other brands

4. Best Radio For Kids: Obuby Walkie-Talkies for Kids

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Why we like it: These cute little walkie-talkies are super sturdy and completely waterproof.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
VOX: Yes
Earpiece Included: No
Preprogrammed Privacy Codes: Yes
License Required: No
Maximum Range: 1.8 miles
Battery Type: AA, 3-5 hours
Durability: Excellent; waterproof
Obuby Walkie-Talkies for Kids come in a variety of cool colors and are great value for money, available in packs of 2 or 3. Not only are they designed to withstand the rough-and-tumble wear and tear of regular use by children, they’re also completely waterproof! Unlike many other walkie-talkies on the children’s market, you won’t have to worry about this one breaking after only a few days or weeks of use. To top it all off, they have excellent range and sound quality for a lower powered, FRS compliant device.
These two-way radios are ergonomically designed for small hands, with rounded corners and smooth rubber buttons. Your kids will have no trouble figuring out how to use these devices, as they have a very easy to use interface.
These walkie-talkies are equipped with an auto squelch function that cancels out background noise. They also have a built-in flashlight, ten different call tones, and a talk confirmation tone that automatically emits at the end of each transmission. While your kids will enjoy these funky noises, you unfortunately can’t turn them down.
Obuby Walkie-Talkie for Kids can transmit over 22 channels, and come preprogrammed with 99 different possible privacy codes for each. They also have a keypad lock, which allows parents to set these devices to a particular channel and privacy code in order to avoid interference with other radio users in your area.
One drawback with these two-way radios is the lack of a power-saver mode or automatic shut-off feature, so your kids will need to be diligent about turning them off completely when not in use. The battery life is also fairly short, at only 3-5 hours. Since each unit takes 4 AAs, we’d recommend investing in a set of rechargeable batteries.

Pros
Waterproof
Extremely durable
Great range and sound quality

Cons
Relatively short battery life
Can’t turn down call noises

5. Motorola T100 Talkabout Radio

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Why we like it: These are an affordable plug-and-play option for kids, with excellent battery life.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
VOX: No
Earpiece Included: No
Preprogrammed Privacy Codes: No, and not capable of being programmed
License Required: No
Maximum Range: 0.5 miles
Battery Type: AAA, 18 hours
Durability: Average; water resistant
The cheap and cheerful Motorola T100 Talkabout Radio is a trimmed-down, bare-bones walkie-talkie without any complicated bells and whistles. If your child is a pre-teen (or just a particularly austere younger kid) who wants a two-way radio without all the cutesy, colorful stylings you usually find on a kid’s model, this walkie-talkie is the perfect choice. It looks nearly identical to Motorola devices for the adult market, and comes in a pack of 2.
The Motorola T100 Talkabout Radio does its job pretty well for a low powered FRS radio. It’s got fairly clear reception, though the signal strength is quite limited —while Motorola claims it can transmit up to 16 miles, it’s really more like half a mile in usual conditions.
It has an auto squelch feature to cancel out background noise, as well as a call tone and talk confirmation tone. These can be disabled if you find them irritating, but you have to do it every time you turn on the device.
The Motorola T100 Talkabout Radio is capable of transmitting on 22 channels. However, only 1-14 are designated FRS channels. While it’s legal for your child to listen to channels 15-22 (which fall under the GMRS band), you’ll need to instruct them not to transmit on these channels.
Unfortunately, these walkie-talkies are not capable of supporting any privacy codes. If you live in a crowded area with a lot of interference, you’ll have a hard time finding a free channel.
At 18 hours, the average battery life is incredibly good, especially for a model that runs on AAA batteries.

Pros
Excellent battery life
Adult-looking design
Reasonable sound quality

Cons
No privacy codes
No special features
GMRS frequencies not locked out

6. Retevis RT628 Walkie-Talkie for Kids

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Why we like it: They’re solidly constructed, have a good battery life, and get great reception despite their lower power level.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
VOX: Yes
Earpiece Included: No
Preprogrammed Privacy Codes: Yes
License Required: No
Maximum Range: 1 mile
Battery Type: AA, 8-10 hours
Durability: Very good, water resistant
The Retevis RT628 Walkie-Talkie for Kids is a sturdy piece of equipment with a decent battery life and a good signal range. Sold in a pack of 2, it has a backlit LCD display and comes in black, red, silver, or camouflage.
For a low-powered 0.5W FRS compliant radio, it has a great range of up to 1 mile. The sound quality is terrific within this distance. The automatic squelch function effectively cancels out background noise to gives you crisp, clear reception —even in noisy areas. Unfortunately, you can’t turn down the call noises.
The Retevis RT628 operates on 22 channels, and comes with 121 privacy codes. The keypad lock feature allows parents to set it to a particular channel and privacy code, and prevents unintentional button dialing when it’s in your kid’s backpack.

Pros
Excellent battery life for AA batteries
Great sound quality
Durable enough to be used by kids

Cons
Can’t turn down call noises

7. Radio with Best Battery Life: BaoFeng BF-888S

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Why we like it: They’re incredibly affordable and have an excellent battery life.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
VOX: Yes
Earpiece Included: No
Preprogrammed Privacy Codes: Yes
License Required: Yes
Maximum Range: 3 miles
Battery Type: 1500mAh, 3.7V lithium-ion, 48 hours
Durability: Very good; water resistant
For a basic, economical walkie-talkie, the BaoFeng BF-888S is extremely well-crafted. It has a 3W power output and is capable of dual band transceiving on UHF and VHF frequencies. The 1500mAh lithium-ion battery lasts about 48 hours and gives the device a range of roughly 3 miles. They come as a set of two, adding even more value.
The BaoFeng BF-888S has a power-saver mode, as well as a transmitter Time Out Timer (TOT), so you won’t completely drain the battery if the PTT accidentally gets pushed down for a prolonged period. An audible low voltage alert also lets you know when you need to recharge the device. It also has an emergency alarm, a broad/narrowband toggle, and a high illumination flashlight for nighttime use.
You scan through the channels using a rotary switch, while an English voice prompt lets you know what channel you’re on. There are 16 channels to choose from, and it comes preprogrammed with a total of 155 analog and digital privacy codes. While you can customize pre-set privacy codes for each channel, all programming must be done through a computer, since there isn’t an LCD screen.
Because it slightly exceeds the 2W limit for FRS radios, you technically need a license for the BaoFeng BF-888S. If you’re looking for an FRS compliant, license free two-way radio, try the newer BF-88ST model —it’s lower powered, but comes with a new integrated antenna and USB desktop charger.

Pros
Extremely affordable
Excellent battery life
Fairly good range

Cons
No LCD display
Requires a license

8. Selieve Toys Kids Walkie-Talkies

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Why we like it: These lightweight, compact radios are easy to use and ergonomically designed for children’s hands.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
VOX: Yes
Earpiece Included: No
Preprogrammed Privacy Codes: Yes
License Required: No
Maximum Range: 2 miles
Battery Type: AA, 3-5 hours
Durability: Very good; not water resistant
Selieve Toys Kids Walkie-Talkies are a great choice for kids on the go. They’re very portable, weighing only 90 grams. They come in a wide variety of nifty colors, like blue, purple, orange, red, and pink, and are sold in packs of 2. They’re also very durable, and designed to withstand being dropped from up to four feet.
The soft rubber buttons and a built-in LCD display make these easy to use. They also have a built-in flashlight and a ring function with several different tones that allows your child to alert you to their location from a distance. While this is a great alarm system, its volume isn’t adjustable.
These Selieve Walkie-Talkies have a 2W power output, with a very good range and great sound quality. They take 4 AA batteries each, and are equipped with an auto power-saver feature that darkens the LCD screen if no transmission has been sent or received in over five seconds.
Finally, they operate on 22 channels, and are capable of using 99 different privacy codes on each.

Pros
Power-saver function
Good range and sound quality
Durable and attractive, making them great for kids

Cons
Ringer can’t be turned down

9. Best Wearable Radio: Wishouse Wearable Walkie-Talkie

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Why we like it: They’re great value, good quality, and equipped with a handy lanyard attachment.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
VOX: Yes
Earpiece Included: No
Preprogrammed Privacy Codes: Yes
License Required: No
Maximum Range: 3 miles
Battery Type: AA, 8-10 hours
Durability: Very good, water resistant
These brightly colored walkie-talkies come equipped with an extendable (and detachable) lanyard that allows your kid to easily carry it around, preventing them from losing it. Sold in a pack of 3 or 4, Wishouse Wearable Walkie-Talkies are terrific value for money, and are available in green, purple, blue, and orange.
These two-way radios are FRS compliant, with a 0.5W power output. Despite their lower power level, they’ve got a decent range of about half a mile —up to 3 miles in an open area. The reception and sound clarity are excellent within this range.
Wishouse Wearable Walkie-Talkies have a built-in flashlight and an auto squelch feature for reducing interference. Your kid can also adjust the sensitivity of the VOX function for easy hands-free communication. They are drop resistant and water resistant.
These two-way radios can operate across 22 channels, with 99 privacy codes for each. Parents can also set the keypad lock to keep their kids tuned in to a particular frequency.
Each unit takes 4 AA batteries. While there is a power-saver mode, you’ll still have to remind your child to switch these devices off completely when they’re finished using them, since they don’t shut off automatically.

Pros
Handy lanyard
Excellent price-to-value ratio
Good range for their power

Cons
No auto-off function
Low power

10. Most Durable Radio: Midland GXT1000VP4 Two-Way GMRS Radio

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Why we like it: This sturdy, splash proof two-way radio is perfect for rugged outdoor use.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
VOX: Yes (adjustable)
Earpiece Included: Yes
Preprogrammed Privacy Codes: Yes
License Required: Yes
Maximum Range:
Battery Type: 700mAh, 6.0V lithium-ion (or 4 AA), 10 hours
Durability: Excellent; splash proof
The Midland GXT1000VP4 Two-Way Radio is a great pick for outdoor adventurers. Its 5W power output gives it terrific range and signal quality, while its tough, splash proof (misleadingly labeled “waterproof” in the product description) design make it a natural choice for braving the elements. It comes in a pack of 2 or 3.
A particularly cool feature with this two-way radio is the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) scan function, which will automatically find and lock onto the strongest available weather forecast channel for your region. It will alert you to severe weather risks in your area, too. It’s also equipped with an SOS siren for emergency situations.
The Midland GXT1000VP4 is designed for silent operation, and uses vibrations instead of caller tones. The “eVOX” (easy-VOX) feature has nine different sensitivity levels, allowing voice-activated transmissions even while whispering. This makes it ideal for hunting, bird watching, or simply maximizing your tranquility while enjoying the great outdoors.
The battery was a major issue with the Midland GXT1000VP4. Although it lasts almost 11 hours (thanks to its multiple power-saver settings), it takes just as long to recharge. You also can’t simply recharge the battery by itself, it has to be in the radio when you plug it in. While you can substitute the lithium-metal battery with 4 AA batteries, this reduces the power output to around 2W —the batteries will last longer, but the signal strength with be greatly reduced.
Lastly, this walkie-talkie has a total of 142 analog and digital privacy codes and operates on 22 different channels.

Pros
Splash proof
NOAA scanner/alert system
Silent operation

Cons
Slow battery recharge
Can’t recharge battery separately from device

Be a Knowledgeable (and Responsible) Two-Way Radio Owner
For a device that’s essentially just an antenna, a battery, a microphone, and a speaker linked together by some internal circuitry, there’s quite a lot to learn about walkie-talkies! Here we’ll break down the key factors behind improving the maximum range of your two-way radio, and give you a more detailed explanation about privacy codes and licensing requirements.
Range
Walkie-talkies work by converting your voice into radio signals —denoted in “megahertz” (MHz), or millions of cycles per second— and transmitting them over the airwaves to other devices tuned in to the same frequency. The distance over which you can transmit is determined by numerous different technical and environmental factors.
It’s important to realize that literally every two-way radio (on this list and elsewhere) greatly exaggerates the maximum range of their devices in the product description. The signal distance claimed by these companies is typically based upon theoretical “optimal conditions” —you’d only ever encounter these if you were in the middle of the prairies (or on the open ocean), under ideal weather conditions, with absolutely no obstructions anywhere in sight.
The range of your walkie-talkie depends on a number of different things:
Power Output
The wattage of your two-way radio is definitely the most important factor in increasing the range of your device. Not only does a higher power level increase the signal strength of your walkie-talkie, but higher frequencies like VHF and UHF have a limited ability to penetrate through concrete, trees, and other obstructions.
Terrain
The ideal place to maximize the range of your walkie-talkie would be on a tall mountain overlooking a flat, open expanse, clear of forests, buildings, and other obstructions. However, in most places (especially if you’re transmitting from a valley, or in a densely populated city) you’ll find any unevenness in the natural terrain and/or any nearby tall buildings will cut your signal range dramatically.
Atmospheric Conditions
Weather plays a key role in how far you’ll be able to transmit on your two-way radio. Rain and/or electromagnetic interference can be particularly disruptive in terms of attenuating your signal.
Antenna
If you don’t mind modifying your walkie-talkie with an after-market part, attaching a larger antenna will significantly boost your signal range. Diamond and Nagoya both offer antennas that are compatible with most devices on this list.
Battery Condition
If your battery is drained, or simply too old to hold a complete charge anymore, this will negatively affect the power output of your two-way radio, which will diminish its range. Using a power saver mode will also have this effect.
FM Repeater Stations
Amateur radio clubs across the country have set up a network of antennas at various TV and radio stations that are capable of re-broadcasting your signal over hundreds of miles. Higher powered devices (GMRS and above) are capable of using these networks.
Privacy Codes
Privacy codes work by attaching a low frequency, inaudible squelching sound to your radio transmissions that works like a signal identifier. When you and the person with whom you’re communicating set your two-way radios to the same channel and privacy code, you will mute anyone else broadcasting on that particular channel. This will allow you to talk clearly without any interference from other radio users.
CTCSS and DCS
If this feature is important to you, look for radios with a CTCSS (continuous tone-coded squelch system), or its digital equivalent, DCS (digital-coded squelch). While CTCSS and DCS fulfill the same function, they aren’t compatible with each other.
The analog CTCSS codes run from 1-38 and can usually be mutually accessed even if the person you’re communicating with isn’t using the same brand of radio.
DCS codes run from 39 to well over 100. Because they’re more numerous, you’re less likely to run into interference while using DCS privacy codes. However, DCS privacy codes often aren’t compatible with each other if you’re using different brands of walkie-talkies.
If a two-way radio (such as the Midland GXT1000VP4 Two-Way GMRS Radio) says it has “3,124 channel options”, this means that it’s capable of using 142 different privacy codes on each of its 22 channels (3,124/22 = 142).
WARNING
It’s very important to note that, while your transmissions will be “encoded” with this feature, they are not actually encrypted —only military-grade radios are capable of blocking out other transmissions this way.
Given the sheer number of different privacy codes, you’re much less likely to encounter interference than you would on an unencoded channel, but this is no guarantee. Someone could still accidentally stumble upon the same channel and privacy code and interrupt your conversation.
Please keep this in mind, and remember not to discuss any confidential or sensitive information on your walkie-talkie.
Licenses
In the United States, in order to avoid interference with military, police, and emergency responder radio channels, the federal government has reserved certain frequency bands for public use. The primary two are the Family Radio Service (FRS) and the General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS).
FRS
The FRS band consists of 22 authorized channels at the 462 MHz and 467 MHz ranges. FRS compliant two-way radios don’t require a license to operate, and (unless you happen to be a representative of a foreign government) you’re allowed to use these frequency bands for either business or personal use regardless of how old you are —hence the name, “Family Radio Service”. Given that FRS devices cannot have a power output higher than 2W, their range is usually limited to only a few hundred feet.
GMRS
GMRS actually operates along the exact same frequency bands as FRS, just at a higher power output —up to 5W. This added power greatly increases the strength of your signal, allowing you to broadcast over much longer distances than FRS compliant devices. The GMRS frequency bands also allow you to connect to FM repeater stations (antenna set up on TV and radio towers by amateur radio clubs), which could theoretically relay your transmissions over a range of hundreds of miles.
However, in order to reduce congestion on the airwaves, the FCC requires GMRS users to obtain a license to operate on these frequencies. A few key details you should know:
You must be at least 18 years of age to be eligible for a GMRS license.
Anyone in your immediate family (regardless of age) will be legally covered under your license.
Your GMRS license is valid for 10 years.
There is no examination required.
You will have to pay a one-time fee to the FCC.
Your GMRS license is only valid for non-commercial use.
You are only permitted to transmit on GMRS designated frequencies, and must stay within the power limitation assigned for each of them.
Getting a GMRS license is a fairly straightforward process:
Go to the Universal Licensing System (ULS) section of the FCC’s website.
Select “Register” and fill out the online questionnaire with your personal details.
You will be assigned an FCC Registration Number (FRN) after completing the one-page form. At this point, you must also set a password for your new account.
Once you have your FRN, login to your account through the “File Online” section of the ULS homepage.
Select “Apply for a New License”, and pick GRMS from the drop-down menu.
Finally, you will need to answer a few very basic questions, give payment for your GMRS license, and certify that the information you provided was correct.
A hardcopy of your GMRS license will then be sent to the mailing address you provided.
Technician Class License
If you decide to purchase a walkie-talkie with a power output above 5W (such as the 8 Watt Ham Radio), you will have to obtain a Technician Class License from the FCC. The process for this is rather more difficult, and involves passing an in-person 35 question examination on radio theory, regulations, and operating practices.
The national association for amateur radio in the United States, the American Radio Relay League (ARRL), has a wealth of helpful resources about this licensing process on their website. These include everything from practice questions to finding an exam session in your local area.
Anyone considering taking up amateur ham radio as a hobby should seriously consider becoming a member of the ARRL. They provide all sorts of great instructional materials and tutorial guides for beginners that will really jumpstart your entry into the thriving subculture of ham radio enthusiasts.
WARNING
It is ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY to obtain a license from the FCC if you intend to operate on higher powered frequency bands such as the GMRS. Failure to comply with this requirement can result in a severe fine, often in the tens of thousands of dollars.
“Over and Out!”
We hope that our helpful consumer guide to two-way radios has presented you with enough options and information to choose the right product for your particular needs. From young backyard adventurers to mature, serious hobbyists, kids and adults alike are sure to find walkie-talkies a fun and rewarding way to communicate with one another. More

Before the invention of power steering, driving a vehicle took a little more effort. If you’ve ever tried to turn a steering wheel while the engine is off, you know the challenge.
Today, for the most part, we don’t have to worry about strong-arming a steering wheel when going around a corner or backing out of the driveway unless, of course, the power steering fluid is leaking.
When you have a power steering fluid leak, you’ll eventually notice that turning the wheel becomes more difficult. Therefore, you’ll want to repair the leak and top-up your fluid as soon as possible, not only for convenience, but for safety as well.
Here’s a look at the best power steering fluid stop leaks on the market today.

Things to Consider When Buying Power Steering Fluid Stop Leak
Losing power steering fluid can hinder your vehicle’s performance and make it more difficult to drive. You’ll really have to reef on your steering wheel to get it to respond, which is a shock if you’ve never experienced it before. These systems have only existed since 1951 and have evolved to be ever more sophisticated and effective over that time.
In the early stages of a leak, you won’t notice any difference in the car. The only clue you’ll encounter is a pool of red or brown liquid under your vehicle, an early sign that something is leaking.
Later on in the process, you might notice a screeching or squealing sound when you turn the wheel.
There are numerous power steering fluid stop leaks available, and you’ll want to consider each option thoroughly before deciding on what to buy.
Effectiveness
Firstly, selecting a product that actually works is of the utmost importance. There’s no point in going through with the purchase if there isn’t a good chance of the stop leak meeting your needs.
In most cases, the effectiveness of the product depends on the size and type of the leak. Generally, these products work by restoring the rubber seals within your system but won’t work on larger leaks where you blow a gasket, or a hole develops in one of the hoses.
Of course, you’re more likely to have success with a premium option like ATP AT-205 Re-Seal Stops Leaks than with lesser-known brands.
Protects and Conditions
Before making your selection, you might look at whether or not the product protects and conditions your power steering system. As a general rule, most of these products will condition the rubber inside your power steering system, at least temporarily. The problem is that not all products work for preventative maintenance because they’ll cause the seals to overexpand and eventually burst.
Have a look at each product’s recommended uses to ensure you’re selecting the right option to meet your needs.
Amount Needed
Generally, you’ll only require a small amount of power steering fluid stop leak to get the job done. Most of the bottles are relatively small, and you’ll only need a few ounces every time. However, some products could take multiple applications before they stop your leak, which can add up if you’re using a product that requires you to add a lot of stop leak to your reservoir.
Compatibility
While many modern power steering fluid stop leak products are compatible with every make and model of vehicle, products like Prestone Power Steering Fluid with Stop Leak are formulated for specific makes of cars, formulated to condition the rubber compounds of a particular manufacturer. You’ll want to read your owner’s manual and the packaging to ensure you end up with a compatible product.
Other Uses
Some power steering fluid stop leak formulas work on other parts of your car. For example, Hapco Pro-Seal can stop leaks in your transmission, engine, differential, or hydraulic system, as well as your power steering system.
There are positives and negatives to these versatile formulas. Since the products can be used in multiple applications, they’re worth keeping around the house in case you experience an issue. At the same time, they might not perform at the same level as a designated power steering fluid stop leak.
Making a Decision
When selecting the right product to meet your needs, start by looking for something compatible with your power steering system and proven to work. From there, you can look at how much of the product you’ll need and how much extra protection it provides.
Power steering fluid makes it easier to control your car by ensuring your power steering system works. When you run out of fluid, either because of a leak or the product naturally breaking down, the vehicle becomes more difficult to steer and the absence of power steering fluid could ruin your pump.
As soon as you notice a leak in your power steering system, investing in a stop leak product is a must because it can save you thousands of dollars in repairs when applied correctly.

Top 10 Best Power Steering Fluid Stop Leaks 2020
1. Best Overall Power Steering Stop Leak: Lucas Power Steering Stop Leak

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Why we like it: Lucas Power Steering Stop Leak is guaranteed to stop seal leaks
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
How much you’ll need: One or two 12-ounce bottles per repair
Protects and conditions: Yes
Compatibility: All power steering fluids
Lucas Power Steering Stop Leak is a high-end product that does an excellent job repairing leaking seals inside your power steering system. The fluid is 100% guaranteed to stop any seal leaks you encounter, and the results are often immediate.
One problem is that the product is difficult to use because you have to wait until the power steering reservoir is nearly empty or drain it beforehand. You could also require multiple bottles to repair the leak.
Key Features
For pure performance, few items can match Lucas Power Steering Stop Leak. The product stops most power steering leaks immediately, and it can prevent rack and pinion issues, too. The result is a quieter car with more responsive steering. As a pure stop leak formula, few products can match the performance of Lucas.
Verdict
You can’t go wrong when using Lucas Power Steering Stop Leak because it performs at an extremely high level. Although waiting until the reservoir is nearly empty is a pain, the product’s performance is worth the hassle. You might require two bottles for your first application, but it’ll save you hundreds of dollars in repairs from a mechanic, making it worth the initial expense.

Pros
Guaranteed to stop your power steering fluid leak
Conditions and repairs the system
Improves steering performance
Works immediately

Cons
For use on an empty reservoir
Could need multiple bottles

2. Best Premium Power Steering Stop Leak: ATP AT-205 Re-Seal Stops Leaks

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Why we like it: ATP AT-205 Re-Seal Stops Leaks is a premium product that repairs rubber seals and gaskets in multiple systems within your vehicle.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
How much you’ll need: One eight-ounce bottler per eight quarts of fluid
Protects and conditions: Yes
Compatibility: All power steering fluids
ATP AT-205 Re-Seal Stops Leaks repairs leaks in rubber seals and gaskets in your power steering system, in addition to your engine, transmission, differential, and hydraulic system. Keeping a few bottles of this product on-hand ensures that you can handle repairs in a hurry if you end up with a leaking seal. However, keep in mind that the product isn’t formulated for use with power steering fluid, so it might not offer the same level of protection as a steering-system specific product.
Key Features
You’ll find ATP AT-205 Re-Seal Stops Leak easy to use because you can add it directly to your power steering fluid reservoir. From there, you’ll have to run the vehicle for about five hours to have it seal your rubber gaskets. The product doesn’t contain petroleum, so it won’t harm any internal components in your steering system by over-swelling if you add too much, and depending on your car’s make and model, you might not require an entire bottle for the repair.
Verdict
ATP AT-205 Re-Seal Stops Leaks is one of the top power steering stop leaks on the market because it efficiently repairs worn and dried out rubber seals. Just remember that it isn’t formulated for your power steering system like Lucas Power Steering Stop Leak, so it might not perform as well.

Pros
Versatile product
Professional strength sealer
Doesn’t over-swell

Cons
Not formulated for power steering

3. Best Budget Power Steering Stop Leak: Bar’s Leaks Power Steering Stop Leak

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Why we like it: Bar’s Leaks Power Steering Stop Leak is an economical way to restore all types of seals in your power steering system.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
How much you’ll need: One 11-ounce bottle per three quarts of fluid
Protects and conditions: No
Compatibility: All power steering fluids
At under $7 per bottle, Bar’s Leaks Power Steering Stop Leak is one of the most cost-efficient products on the market. The product stops gasket and O-ring leaks within your system and can make the steering system quieter, as well. However, despite one 11-ounce bottle treating three quarts of fluid (the typical car contains about 1 or 2 quarts of fluid), you might have to apply more because it doesn’t always work the first time.
Key Features
Bar’s Leaks Power Steering Stop Leak is an excellent product for small leaks because it does a great job of restoring gaskets and O-rings that are on their last legs. The result is that you can avoid expensive repairs to your steering system. The product prevents other steering leaks from occurring in the future once you apply it and can help your system’s interior components avoid corrosion.
Verdict
You might find that Bar’s Leaks Power Steering Stop Leak doesn’t work as quickly or as well as high-end products like ATP AT-205 Re-Seal Stops Leaks. However, you can’t go wrong with the price because even if you need to reapply a few times, you’ll still have your power steering system repaired for under $20.

Pros
Inexpensive
Repairs all power steering system seals
Prevents corrosion

Cons
Might need more than one bottle
Slow to work

4. Best Power Steering Fluid and Stop Leak in One: Prestone Power Steering Fluid with Stop Leak

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Why we like it: Prestone Power Steering Fluid with Stop Leak is a power steering fluid plus stop leak two-in-one, making it an incredibly convenient fix.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
How much you’ll need: Vehicle dependent
Protects and conditions: Yes
Compatibility: Ford, GM, and Chrysler
Prestone Power Steering Fluid with Stop Leak is a two-in-one product that often stops leaks in one application and can prevent further damage to your system. A potential issue is that the product doesn’t meet the service requirements of some global vehicle manufacturers. You’ll need to consult your owner’s manual to see how much of the product your car requires, as it’s a function of how much power steering fluid your car’s system needs.
Key Features
Prestone Power Steering Fluid with Stop Leak has a lot going for it, including its anti-wear agents, sludge-preventing antioxidants, and anti-foam agents. The result is a highly-functioning power steering fluid stop leak that also doubles as a standalone power steering fluid. The product can help maintain your current system, preventing leaks on high-mileage vehicles, too.
Verdict
Overall, Prestone Power Steering Fluid with Stop Leak is a reliable product at an affordable price point. It works well to fix seals that are leaking and will do the entire power steering system some good. However, it’ll take a bit of research to ensure the product is compatible with your car, and you might have to entirely drain your power steering reservoir for the best results.

Pros
Protects and conditions the power steering system
Rejuvenates all seals
One treatment is often enough

Cons
Not compatible with every type of fluid
The amount required depends on your car

5. Best Seal Conditioning Stop Leak: NO LEAK Power Steering Stop Leak

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Why we like it: NO LEAK Power Steering Stop Leak stops slow leaks and conditions your seals so they don’t leak again in the future.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
How much you’ll need: One 16-ounce bottle for five quarts
Protects and conditions: Yes
Compatibility: All power steering fluids
NO LEAK Power Steering Stop Leak is a solid product that can stop small or slow leaks within your power steering system. The product is easy to use, as you just have to pour it into your power steering reservoir, and it will begin repairing your leaking fluid problem. However, you might find that the product doesn’t work well on more substantial leaks. It can also take multiple days for this fluid to fix the problem after application.
Key Features
In addition to stopping power steering fluid leaks, NO LEAK Power Steering Stop Leak protects your system from leaks by conditioning your seals and gaskets. As a result, you can use the product in your preventative maintenance to keep your power steering system functioning at optimal levels.
Verdict
NO LEAK Power Steering Stop Leak works on many small leaks, but it isn’t the most efficient product on the market. You might require multiple bottles before you notice a slowdown in the leak, making this option more expensive than others, too. It could also take numerous days for NO LEAK Power Steering Stop Leak to repair your seals, during which time more fluid will leak onto your driveway.

Pros
Seals small leaks
Conditions your seals and gaskets
Can be used for preventative maintenance

Cons
Doesn’t work on large leaks
Works slowly

6. BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak

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Why we like it: BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak provides a permanent repair on leaks in your power steering system.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
How much you’ll need: One-third of an eight-ounce bottle
Protects and conditions: Yes
Compatibility: All power steering fluids
BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak offers a permanent repair of power steering fluid leaks of all sizes. The product is easy to use, and since you only need one-third of a bottle to see results, it’s an inexpensive option, at least on the surface. Unfortunately, you might end up having to reapply the formula multiple times to get it to work, and there are situations where it won’t stop the leak at all, however, this is possible with all stop-leak products.
Key Features
You’ll find that BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak works quickly, as it seals leaks in the power steering system within a couple of hours. In the case of more severe leaks, it could be up to two days to see results. The product won’t damage your power steering system, so you can keep adding more if it doesn’t work the first time around. The product provides a permanent solution to many leaks, helping you to avoid a trip to the garage.
Verdict
When BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak works, it’s a real money-saver because it can permanently repair your system. On the other hand, there are situations where the product doesn’t work at all, mainly when dealing with larger leaks. Overall, BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak is worth a try, but keep an eye on your power steering fluid levels during use to get the gist of its efficacy.

Pros
Aims to repair leaks permanently
Small amount required
Works quickly

Cons
Doesn’t always work
Sometimes takes multiple applications

7. Best Universal Seal Conditioner: SealLube Seal Expander

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Why we like it: SealLube Seal Expander works to seal leaks in all types of fluid systems in your vehicle.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
How much you’ll need: One eight-ounce bottle for eight quarts
Protects and conditions: Yes
Compatibility: All power steering fluids
SealLube Seal Expander is a high-end product that not only repairs leaks in your power steering fluid system but also handles transmission, engine, air conditioning, differential, and hydraulic system leaks. This utility makes the product a valuable addition for any car owner. At the same time, since the product isn’t specifically designed for power steering systems, it might not work as well as specialized products like NO LEAK Power Steering Stop Leak.
Key Features
SealLube Seal Expander works by restoring flexibility to the seals within your car’s various systems. Once the flexibility is restored, the seal becomes more robust and less likely to crack. It also conditions your power steering system to prevent future leaks if you use it proactively. The product works quickly once applied.
Verdict
The good news is that SealLube Seal Expander works with all power steering fluid brands and will expand and condition your rubber seals to prevent leaks. However, the product doesn’t work on seals that are too far gone (no stop-leak does), and it’s more expensive than many other options. There’s also the issue of the product not being specifically designed for power steering fluid leaks, which could reduce its effectiveness.

Pros
Works quickly
Expands seals efficiently
Works with all fluid brands

Cons
Expensive
Not designed for power steering reservoirs

8. Hapco Pro-Seal

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Why we like it: Hapco Pro-Seal is a high-end product that expands and restores rubber seals to repair leaks efficiently.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
How much you’ll need: One ounce of product per quart of system capacity
Protects and conditions: Yes
Compatibility: All power steering fluids
Much like SealLube Seal Expander, Hapco Pro-Seal works on power steering systems, transmissions, engines, differentials, and hydraulic systems. The product won’t clog your system, as it’s designed to soak into rubber seals and expand them to slow or stop leaks. The product is compatible with all fluids and restores and conditions the rubber, as well. It could require multiple applications, however, making it an expensive option.
Key features
Hapco Pro-Seal is a quick and easy-to-use additive that you’ll put directly into your power steering fluid reservoir. Once there, the product conditions and expands the rubber seals inside to repair them. The product comes with a money-back guarantee and won’t clog your system so that you can use it for preventative maintenance, too.
Verdict
You’ll be happy to know that Hapco Pro-Seal stops all kinds of fluid leaks and works in a hurry, making it a great product to try. You might have to apply it multiple times to achieve a leak-free power steering system, which could make it costly. Overall, it’s worth keeping around the house because of its versatility.

Pros
Seals all types of rubber gaskets
Works in various systems
Restores worn rubber

Cons
Expensive
Might require multiple applications

9. STP Power Steering Fluid & Stop Leak

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Why we like it: STP Power Steering Fluid & Stop Leak is a two-in-one stop leak and power steering fluid that protects the system from future damage.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
How much you’ll need: Seven ounces per quart of power steering fluid
Protects and conditions: Yes
Compatibility: All power steering fluids
You can use STP Power Steering Fluid & Stop Leak instead of your regular power steering fluid, making it one of the most straightforward products on the market to utilize. Once in your system, the product will restore and repair damaged seals, fixing and preventing leaks. STP Power Steering Fluid & Stop Leak works better as a preventative product than a stop leak, however, so you might look elsewhere if you already have a leak.
Key features
First and foremost, STP Power Steering Fluid & Stop Leak is a high-end power steering fluid that performs well in most circumstances. The product has the added benefit of protecting and conditioning the power steering system’s seals, preventing leaks from developing. It can also stop minor leaks if they occur, but shouldn’t be relied upon if you have a severe ongoing leak.
Verdict
How STP Power Steering Fluid & Stop Leak works for you depends on the severity of your problem. If you’re driving a high-mileage vehicle and haven’t noticed a power steering fluid leak, pre-emptively using this product could keep it that way. However, you’ll find that other products like BlueDevil Power Steering Stop Leak work better if you’re already developing problems within your power steering system.

Pros
Works as a power steering fluid
Can prevent leaks from developing
Restores your seals

Cons
Isn’t good at repairing significant leaks
More of a power steering fluid than a stop leak

10. Motorkote All Seal Stop Leak and Leak Preventor

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Why we like it: Motorkote All Seal Stop Leak and Leak Preventor works to prevent seals from cracking and can repair already leaking components within your power steering system.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
How much you’ll need: Two ounces for every one ounce of capacity
Protects and conditions: Yes
Compatibility: All power steering fluids
Motorkote All Seal Stop Leak and Leak Preventor is usable in your power steering reservoir, in addition to your engine, crankshaft, and transmission. The product works by softening and expanding rubber seals within these systems, stopping minor leaks. You’ll find that Motorkote All Seal Stop Leak and Leak Preventor struggles to repair significant leaks in your system, however.
Key features
As a preventative measure against power steering fluid leaks, Motorkote All Seal Stop Leak and Leak Preventor is a high-end product that gets the job done. It conditions and restores the rubber gaskets and O-rings inside the system, keeping the fluid inside where it belongs.
Verdict
If you plan to use Motorkote All Seal Stop Leak and Leak Preventor on a significant leak, you probably won’t have much success. However, this product is useful when preventing power steering fluid leaks on older vehicles or stopping a slow leak. A bonus is that it works on other systems, so you can use your bottle to fix leaking rubber components in your car’s engine and transmission if necessary.

Pros
Multiple uses
Inexpensive
Don’t need much of it

Cons
More for maintenance than repairs
Not for large leaks

Guide to Buying the Best Windshield Washer Fluids

You should know a few more things before investing in a power steering fluid stop leak product. After all, the right product could save you thousands of dollars in repairs, while a bad one could make the problem even worse. Doing your research to find the right one is beneficial.
First, you should know how to tell if you have a power steering issue, and then you should get to the bottom of why it’s occurring.
You’ll then want to look at the best products on the market and come to a conclusion based on your analysis. You should also have a plan if the product doesn’t work.
Signs Your Power Steering System is Broken
Much like other problems with your car, an issue with your power steering system will start slowly. Initially, you might notice a squealing sound when you turn the wheel. The noise might not occur every time, as it often begins as an occasional annoyance.
Air getting into your power steering pump is the reason for this noise, and the air gets through because there’s fluid leaking. The pump should be full of fluid, which it moves to various parts of your system. When the pump isn’t full of liquid, air gets in and makes noise as it advances, much like the wind.
Keep in mind that air can damage your power steering pump, too, because the device isn’t meant to pump it. When you run into power steering pump damage, though, a full repair is necessary. Stop leak, unfortunately, cannot fix your power steering pump.
Why Your Power Steering System Needs a Repair
Are you aware of why your power steering system requires a repair in the first place?
Well, it really depends on the type of issue you’re encountering and how advanced the problem is. Your entire power steering system contains lines and hoses that connect to each other with rubber seals, gaskets, and O-rings.
For a stop leak application to work, you’ll have to catch the problem before there’s physical damage to your seals or O-rings. Once these seals crack or break, you’ll have to head to your mechanic for a pricey repair.
Stop leak works on seals that are starting to shrink and become brittle. As your car ages, things will begin to dry out a little. The rubber components inside your power steering system can start to wither, and fluid will start escaping.
The role of the stop leak formula is to swell the rubber and make it less brittle. Most products also condition the seals to prevent them from becoming breakable in the future.
The gist is that you need a power steering repair because your seals are old, worn, and starting to leak, and a stop leak formula can help.
What to Do If It Doesn’t Work
Applying a power steering fluid stop leak can repair many leaks in your power steering system. However, it’s essential to know that the product only works on these seals and won’t fix more extensive issues.
For example, if there’s a physical break in one of your hoses or lines, there’s nothing you can do besides replace the hose. The same goes for the pump and its housing and bearings, as damage to these components is far too complicated for a liquid additive to address. Stop leak will be most effective with small leaks.
If your power steering fluid doesn’t work the first time, it’s safe to try it again. Make sure you put the optimal amount of product into your reservoir and then top-up your power steering fluid. When multiple applications don’t seem to affect your leak, a visit to a mechanic might be your only option.
Pro Tip: Place some cardboard or newspaper under the front of your vehicle after applying some power steering fluid stop leak. Doing so allows you to see if any leaks develop overnight or if your repair is a success.
How to Use Power Steering Fluid Stop Leak
Using these products is relatively easy, as it begins by opening your hood and finding the power steering fluid reservoir. The reservoir is labeled, and there a dipstick that allows you to see how much fluid you’re losing.
If your power steering fluid levels seem low, there’s a good chance you have a leak of some type that you should address. Power steering fluid doesn’t just disappear.
You can apply most stop leak products to a nearly full reservoir of power steering fluid. However, you’ll want to remove an amount equal to the amount of stop leak you’ll be putting into your car to prevent overfilling. The instructions vary by brand and type, so make sure to read the product’s instructions.
Keep in mind that Lucas Power Steering Stop Leak works best if you empty the entire reservoir and then fill it with fluid afterward. It’s a bit of a pain, but the product does an excellent job of repairing leaks.
Once you have the stop leak product in your vehicle, you’ll need to drive around so it circulates throughout your system. The amount of time this process takes depends on the formula, your car, and the severity of the leak, but you’ll generally want to give it a few days before reapplying.
Pro Tip: Wear eye protection and gloves while putting the stop leak product into your power steering reservoir. These products can irritate your skin and eyes. It’s best to be safe, so you don’t have to deal with the aftermath.
Other Lifesaving Car Products
Ever since cars have been breaking down, clever inventors have come up with smart ways to fix and avoid those breakdowns. If you love to drive high-mileage cars, or if you just want to make sure you’ve got something on hand for every scenario, check out some of our favorite maintenance and repair-related products.
Radiator Stop Leaks: Plagued by mysterious drips and leaks? Pick up an inexpensive radiator stop leak that can at least get you back on the road, if not completely fix your problem.
Oil Stop Leak Additives: The most common leak issue and, therefore, the one most likely to ruin your day is an oil leak. If you’re power steering fluid is leaking and you’ve got a high mileage vehicle, your oil pan might not be far behind. Pick up an oil stop-leak additive to plug up pesky drips.
Garage Mats: While a leak is no fun for you or your vehicle, your garage floor might take the brunt of the abuse, soaking up fluids and oils of all types. Pick up a garage mat to protect your floor, they’re quite inexpensive.
OBD2 Code Readers: Any garage mechanic worth their salt (or anyone just looking to save money) should pick up an OBD2 code reader. If something’s going wrong, you’ll at least know what.
Is the Power Steering Fluid Stop Leak Permanent?
You might have noticed that some products claim to provide a permanent fix for leaks in your power steering system and wonder if these assertions are factual.
The answer is yes, to an extent.
When one of your seals is old and brittle, it needs the attention that power steering fluid stop leak provides. That seal will then be rejuvenated and returned to an optimal state. The other seals within the system will receive the same treatment, so you shouldn’t have similar problems with them in the future.
However, different problems can arise with these seals and other elements within your power steering system, causing leaks.
Don’t make the mistake of thinking your power steering system is now leak-proof because you’ve used a stop leak product. The truth is that even a product that claims to be permanent won’t stop all leaks, as you can still blow gaskets, break your pump, crack your reservoir, or have a hose form a leak.
These products do work for their intended use, but they won’t make your power steering system invincible.
Power Steering Fluid and Stop Leak in One
Prestone Power Steering Fluid with Stop Leak and STP Power Steering Fluid & Stop Leak are included on this list as power steering fluid and stop leak two-in-one products.
The benefit of this type of product, of course, is that you can use it just like a traditional power steering fluid, except it will condition and repair your seals. As your vehicle ages, you might consider switching to one of these products as part of your preventative maintenance plan.
However, the drawback of these products is that they don’t work well as a standalone stop leak once your seals are already leaking. That’s because these applications are a power steering fluid, first and foremost, that condition your seals as a bonus.
For that reason, it’s essential to look at what a stop leak formula attempts to accomplish before selecting one. Consider the age of your vehicle and any leaks you’re already encountering before making your selection.
Wrapping Things Up
A power steering fluid stop leak is a valuable tool to have available to you when you run into car problems. When used in their designed applications, these products work well as they can stop seals and gaskets within your power steering system from leaking. At the same time, these products aren’t miracle cures for all power steering problems, so you’ll want to carefully consider the type of leak you’re dealing with before going in this direction. More