California changes GPS law

California is one of only two states where drivers have been prohibited from mounting  a portable GPS navigation unit on their vehicle’s windshield, due to concerns about  obstructing to the driver’s view. But Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger has moved to make windshield mounting legal, with the caveat that the unit must be placed on either the lower left or lower right corner of the windshield.

The new law goes into effect January 1, 2009. This will leave Minnesota as the only state prohibiting mounting a GPS unit on a windshield. Legislation banning drivers from text messaging has also been approved.

In other West Coast legislative news, California motorists who like to cuddle with their pets can breathe a sigh of relief: Schwarzenegger vetoed a bill that would have made it illegal to have a pet sitting in your lap while behind the wheel. (Learn the safe way to travel with pets.)

—Desiree Calamari

For more information on portable GPS navigation systems, see our Ratings and buying advice and watch our video guide. Discuss GPS devices in the forums.

New child booster seat ratings from IIHS

Today, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) released new ratings of child booster seats. The first of their kind, IIHS ranked boosters from those that performed as “best bets” to those that are “not recommended” based on the seat’s ability to correctly position a vehicle’s lap and shoulder belt for booster-age children, not on their performance in simulated crash tests. Unlike child restraints intended for smaller children that have internal harnesses, materials, and structures to restrain children and absorb crash energy, booster seats function as a positioning device to correctly place the child within the vehicle’s seatbelt system. It is the seatbelt that does the restraining with the boosters designed to position those belts across the stronger bony structures of the hip and clavicle/collar bone rather than across the softer tissue of the abdomen and neck.

IIHS, in conjunction with the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute (UMTRI), measured how the lap and shoulder belts fit a crash-test dummy representing the average size and weight of a six-year-old in each of 41 booster seat models. The booster seats were evaluated using a vehicle seat with lap and shoulder belts in a range of positions based on actual vehicle measurements. Though seatbelts are highly effective at reducing injury in a crash, those that are incorrectly positioned across the lap have the potential to cause injury to the abdomen if positioned too high and if they allow children to slide under them during a crash. Shoulder belts positioned too closely to the neck do not place the load ideally over the clavicle/collar bone but are also uncomfortable, which may cause children to hold the belt away from their neck or put the shoulder portion of the belt behind them, reducing the belt’s protection.

IIHS Best Bets

    * Graco TurboBooster backless with clip
    * Fisher-Price Safe Voyage backless with clip
    * Combi Kobuk backless with clip
    * Fisher-Price Safe Voyage
    * Britax Parkway
    * LaRoche Bros. Teddy Bear
    * Safeguard Go backless with clip
    * Volvo booster cushion
    * Recaro Young Style
    * Britax Monarch

Details of the ratings and how they were arrived at can be found at www.IIHS.org.

In making an assessment of which booster seats best fit children, IIHS provides an important and as yet unmeasured piece of the puzzle. Consumer Reports' Ratings include some of the seats also tested by IIHS and are based on our evaluations of how easy the seats are to use, how they fit in vehicles, and how they perform in a variety of simulated crash scenarios. Seats that we rate well and that also show as “good” or “best bets” in the IIHS evaluations provide the best potential for protecting a child in a crash.  If you own a seat that falls into the “not recommended” category from IIHS, it’s more important to perform your own assessment of fit with your own child and car based on the steps outlined below.

But don’t forget some important points:

•    Booster seats are an important step in child passenger safety and should not be overlooked.  Although laws in most states now require the use of boosters for children not yet ready for using the vehicle belts alone, and research has shown them to significantly reduce the potential for injury and death, non-use is still higher than among other child restraint types. Often, children are in vehicles wearing only the seatbelts or are not restrained at all before they’re old or large enough to do so safely.

•    Kids and cars come in all shapes and sizes. As IIHS points out, though the six-year-old dummy used in the study is designed to represent the average six-year-old in stature, it certainly does not represent all kids. Parents and caregivers should make a similar assessment of their own child in their own vehicle to determine if their booster seat is working as intended. Answer these questions to determine if your seat is providing the proper fit:
    o    Does the booster seat position the shoulder belt across the clavicle/collar bone, approximately mid-way between the neck and shoulder?
    o    Does the booster seat position the lap belt low across the hips/top of the thighs?
    o    Does either the booster seat or vehicle head restraint provide some support behind the child’s head?
    o    Is your child comfortable and not tempted to move the belts or themselves out of position after a period of time?

•     Don’t rush to move your kids to the next step (PDF download) in terms of restraint use. Very often a step-up to the next level of restraint means a step-down in terms of overall safety .

•    Regardless of how a seat rates, remember it is best for children to ride in any booster than to let them ride unbuckled or in the vehicle belts alone.

Learn more about how to choose the right child safety seat, including the available types and features.

—Jennifer Stockburger

Car, pickup truck, SUV, and tire recalls

Recently, there have been several recalls worth noting from Audi, Bridgestone Firestone, General Motors, Hyundai, Jaguar, Mazda, and Mercedes-Benz. But first, a major one from Ford:

Ford, Lincoln, Mercury – Nearly five million unrepaired vehicles could pose serious fire hazard

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is urging owners of certain Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury SUVs, pickup trucks, vans, and passenger cars to take their vehicles to a local dealership immediately for a corrective repair. The vehicles contain a defective cruise control switch that could lead to a fire at any time, even while the vehicle is turned-off, parked and unattended. Repair parts are readily available.

NHTSA remains concerned that many owners have yet to respond to multiple safety defect recall notifications from Ford. Of the 12 million vehicles involved in the recall, nearly five million have not yet been brought to Ford for repair.

The involved vehicles are:

1993–2004 Ford F-150
1993–1999 Ford F-250 (gasoline engine)
1993–1996 Ford Bronco
1994–1996 Ford Econoline
1997–2002 Ford Expedition
1998–2002 Lincoln Navigator
1998–2002 Ford Ranger
1992–1998 Ford Crown Victoria, Lincoln Town Car, and Mercury Grand Marquis
1993–1998 Lincoln Mark VIII
1993–1995 Ford Taurus SHO with automatic transmission
1994 Mercury Capri
1998–2001 Ford Explorer and Mercury Mountaineer
2001–2002 Ford Explorer Sport and Explorer Sport Trac
1992–1993 and 1997–2003 Ford E-150-350 gasoline or natural-gas vehicles
2002 Ford E-550 gasoline engine vehicles
1996–2003 Ford E-450 gasoline or natural gas vehicles
1994–2002 Ford F-250 through F-550 Super Duty trucks (gasoline engine)
2000–2002 Ford Excursion (gasoline engine)
2003 F-250 – F-550 Super Duty, Ford Excursion
1995–2002 Ford F53 Motor home chassis
2002–2003 Lincoln Blackwood

Consumers with questions should contact their local Ford/Lincoln/Mercury dealer, or call 1-888-222-2751. Additional information is available at Ford.com.

Audi is recalling nearly 14,000 A8 vehicles equipped with a five-speed automatic transmission. The locking cable may slide out of position over time, allowing the shifter to be moved out of the "Park" position even if the ignition key is not in the ignition lock. This could allow the vehicle to roll, risking a crash. Dealers will make the necessary modifications to secure the locking cable in place. The recall is expected to begin this month. Owners may contact Audi at 1-800-822-2834.

Bridgestone bias-ply motorcycle and scooter tires

Bridgestone Firestone (BFNT) is recalling over 4,000 Bridgestone bias-ply motorcycle and scooter tires that fail to conform to the labeling requirements of a federal safety standard. BFNT will notify owners and replace the noncompliant tires free of charge. The recall is expected to begin this month. Owners may contact BFNT at 1-615-937-3442.

2006-2008 Buick Lucerne, Cadillac DTS and Hummer H2; 2007-2008 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade EXT, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Acadia, Sierra, Yukon, Yukon XL, Saturn Outlook; 2008 Buick Enclave – heated wiper washer fluid system

GM is recalling over 850,000 Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, Hummer and Saturn vehicles equipped with a heated wiper washer fluid system that could overheat. Dealers will install a wire harness with an in-line fuse free of charge. GM has yet to announce when owners will be notified. In the meantime, owners may contact Buick at 1-866-608- 8080; Cadillac at 1-800-982-2339; Chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438; Saturn at 1-800-972-8876; GMC at 1-866-996-9436; or Hummer at 1-800- 732-5493; or MyGMLink.

2008 Buick Enclave and 2007-2008 GMC Acadia and Saturn Outlook – windshield wipers

GM is recalling over 88,000 Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia and Saturn Outlook vehicles currently or previously registered in the following states: AK, CO, CT, DE, ID, IL, IN, IA, ME, MD, MA, MI, MN, MT, NE, NH, NJ, NY, ND, OH, PA, RI, SD, UT, VT, WV, WI, WY and DC. Snow and ice buildup on the windshield or wipers could cause the wipers to become inoperative. Dealers will install a new wiper mechanisms. The recall is expected to begin during October. Owners may contact Buick at 1-866-608-8080, GMC at 1-866-996-9463, Saturn at 1-800-972-8876, or at MyGMLink.

2008 Hyundai Elantra – fuel pump

Hyundai is recalling 65,000 Elantra vehicles with 2.0-liter “beta” engines. The fuel pump motor may produce less pressure than required to supply the fuel-injection system. Dealers will replace the fuel pump subassembly free of charge. The recall is expected to begin this month. Owners may contact Hyundai at 1-800-633-5151.

2009 Jaguar XF – rear safety belt

Jaguar is recalling nearly 8,000 XF vehicles due to a problem with the rear safety belt. In the event of a crash, a seat occupant may not be properly restrained, increasing the risk of personal injury. Dealers will correct the condition. The recall is expected to begin this month. Owners may contact Jaguar at 1-800-452-4827.

2007-2008 Mazda6 – fuel tanks

Mazda is recalling 7,200 Mazda6 vehicles with California emission specifications. The metal fuel tanks on the affected vehicles may have been damaged during the assembly process, which could lead to a fuel leakage. Dealers will inspect and repair or replace the fuel tank, if necessary. The recall is expected to begin this month. Owners may contact Mazda at 1-800-222-5500, Option 2.

2001-2006 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class (Model 215), 2002-2006 S-Class (Model 220)
2003-2007 SL-Class (Model 230), 2007-2008 CL-Class (Model 216), 2007 S-Class (Model 221) – acceleration sensors

Mercedes-Benz is recalling over 4,500 CL-Class, S-Class and SL-Class vehicles equipped with Active Body Control (ABC) acceleration sensors on the front struts. The ABC sensors may have been installed improperly, which can adversely influence the vehicle's directional stability and could lead to a vehicle crash. Dealers will inspect and replace, if necessary, the front ABC sensors in all potentially affected vehicles. The recall is expected to begin this month. Owners may contact Mercedes-Benz at 1-800-367-6372.

—Desiree Calamari

Wake-up call: The dangers of texting

We’ve written about the dangers of texting while driving—particularly among teens—before. Now the practice has been brought to national attention with the news that texting may have played a part in last Friday’s fatal crash of a California commuter train. The National Transportation Safety Board reviewed cell phone records and found that the train's engineer was sending and receiving text messages while he was on duty. Federal investigators still need to determine if the engineer's texting with two teenage passengers while he was driving the train caused him to miss a stop signal, according to published reports. The California Public Utilities Commission has just banned the personal use of cellular communication devices while operating a train.

Six states and Washington, DC ban the use of handheld cell phones—for talking and/or texting—while driving. Simply put, if you’re driving any type of vehicle, keep your eyes on the road, not your cell phone, PDA, or other device. See our tips on how to reduce driver distraction. And share them with the teenagers in your life.

—Desiree Calamari

Honda and ESC – Safety for Everyone?

Honda has been using a slogan of "Safety for Everyone" for several years now. While this strategy has driven some major improvements, recently in some ways it seems to ring hollow.

First the good news: all current Acura and Honda vehicles have standard ABS and side-curtain air bags (except the S2000 roadster). The company’s vehicles do very well in crash tests, and they’ve been a leader in designing for pedestrian safety in this market. (See how more than 250 cars perform in crash test videos.)

The subject of electronic stability control (ESC) gets a bit stickier. By 2007, all of Honda’s SUVs had standard stability control. Some carmakers had ESC earlier, particularly European manufacturers and Toyota, which added ESC on all of their SUVs for 2004.

Honda’s passenger car implementation of ESC has been slower. The company didn’t get a sedan with ESC until the V6 Accord and S2000 in 2006 (the company added ESC on Acuras earlier). On the plus side, Honda gave all Accords standard ESC for 2008, one factor that led to the Accord being our "Top Pick" sedan for that year.

The 2009 model year sees ESC spread to more models of the Civic, and it shows up on the Fit for the first time. But contrary to the "Safety for Everyone" mantra, the approach seems to be "Safety for everyone—if you buy leather, a navigation system, or the sports model." While higher-end Civics, including the sporty Si, the hybrid, and the EX with leather, have ESC, the mass-market models don’t get it.

Availability is even more limited on the redesigned Fit; as noted in our previous blog ("Preview: 2009 Honda Fit"), you can only get ESC on the top-line Sport, and then only with the optional navigation system. As configured, a $20,000  Fit seems like a whole lot of money for a small car, no matter how clever the packaging.

Honda’s done this before. All of Honda’s luxury Acura line (except the defunct NSX sports car and RSX coupe) since 2004 had ESC. The first version of the Pilot with ESC was the most expensive leather-equipped 2005 EX-L. Only six-cylinder Accords had ESC for 2006-2007. And Honda certainly isn’t alone in bundling safety equipment with luxury trim levels. (I’ve complained about Subaru doing this in a previous blog ("Stability control - Doing the right thing"), but now for 2009, almost every Subaru model has standard ESC.)

But it seems to me that a company which advocates and markets "Safety for Everyone" should have standard ESC on all of its cars. The market is heading that way, and ESC is mandated for 2012 on all cars – whether or not they have sports packages, leather seats, or navigation.

—Tom Mutchler

Learn more about automotive safety.

Safe! - Acadia, Enclave, Outlook, Traverse top safety picks

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has awarded the Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse, GMC Acadia, and Saturn Outlook its Top Safety Pick designation for exemplary performance in frontal offset, side, and rear crash tests. To be eligible for this distinction, a vehicle also has to have standard stability control.

These corporate siblings are highly rated by Consumer Reports. We liked their combination of ride, handling, smooth powertrain, and space efficiency. With these new crash-test results, the Acadia and Outlook now earn our top-level recommendation, which means they performed well in CR's tests and have average or better reliability. The Enclave is not recommended because we do not have adequate reliability data yet. The Traverse goes on sale in the fall.

The Acadia and its siblings received top scores in the Institute’s frontal-offset  and side crash tests, and also received top marks for whiplash protection based on the design of their head restraints. The Institute provides a detailed breakdown, rating injury measures for head/neck, torso, leg/pelvis, overall head protection, and structure/safety cage. In all instances for front and side, these SUVs earn the Institute’s highest rating of good.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also awarded the vehicles five stars in both their front- and side-crash tests. The NHTSA evaluations are less severe than those performed by the Insurance Institute, but they are considered a valuable measure of safety belt and air bag performance.

The vehicles scored four stars in rollover resistance in NHTSA’s test of rollover propensity, a good rating for an SUV.

Learn more about how the Institute and NHTSA perform their evaluations in “Crash Test 101.” And see the tests in action by choosing from the more than 250 crash test videos produced with IIHS.

—Eric Evarts

Preparing to drive back to school

The summer season is coming to an end and it's almost time to go back to school. For some students that means packing up the car and heading out on a road trip to campus. Here are some tips to help you pack smartly and prepare your car for the journey.

Put the heaviest items up front
Make sure the heaviest items are put as far forward in the cargo area as possible, and keep them on the floor. In all vehicles, and SUVs in particular, it is important to keep the heaviest items toward the center of the vehicle. This reduces the potential adverse effect on handling that could be caused by the cargo weight; significant weight at the back could compress the rear springs and reduce the weight over the front wheels, impacting steering and braking. Further, this strategy helps keep the overall center of gravity lower, reducing the likelihood of a rollover.

Secure loose items
To prevent cargo from flying around during a sudden stop, pack smaller items into boxes and strap down larger ones using the car's cargo anchors. Secure in the cargo section to prevent them from striking passengers in an emergency situation. Refrain from loading large items—or even small, loose items—on the top of your cargo pile, as these can become dangerous projectiles in a panic stop or a crash.

Rear visibility is important
Make sure that you don't stack your belongings so high that you can't see out. An obscured rear window makes driving difficult and creates considerable risk when reversing.

Keep essentials handy
Keep a roadside emergency kit, cell phone, and maps or portable GPS system accessible. An emergency kit should have a few basic items such as a first aid kit, fire extinguisher, flares, and a flashlight. See our report on emergency kits for more information on what to keep with you.

A cell phone is also useful for an emergency, but make sure you pull over to a safe location before you make a call as to not get distracted on the road. Also, pack a cell phone charger as well. Check out our cell phone Ratings if you’re looking for a new model.

For more information on preparing for the new school year, see our back to school guide.

—Liza Barth

Small SUV crash tests - New Top Safety Picks

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has named six small SUVs Top Safety Picks: the Volkswagen Tiguan, Mitsubishi Outlander, Ford Escape, Mazda Tribute, Mercury Mariner, and Nissan Rogue.

To qualify for this accolade, the six got the Institute's top rating of Good in offset frontal and side crash tests, plus an evaluation of rear crash protection. They also all offer electronic stability control as standard equipment. The Mercury Mariner and the Mazda Tribute are twins to the Ford Escape; the test results also apply to the hybrid versions of these models.

The Honda CR-V, Honda Element, and Subaru Forester are also Top Picks in this class based on earlier tests.

IIHS rates cars in an offset frontal crash that is more severe than U.S. government crash test standards and more closely mimics real-world accidents. Side crash tests are conducted to simulate a vehicle being hit in the side by a tall, heavy SUV. Vehicles are rated on a scale of Good, Acceptable, Marginal, and Poor. (Learn more in "Crash Test 101.")

Other small SUVs, including the Suzuki Grand Vitara, Jeep Patriot, Chevrolet Equinox, Pontiac Torrent, Jeep Patriot, and Jeep Wrangler received lower grades in one of the crash measures. The Wrangler offered Poor protection in a side crash when tested without its optional side air bags.

If you're in the market for a small SUV, we recommend you look for one that has Good crash scores from both the IIHS and the government, as well as one that performed well in our testing and has good predicted reliability.

Of the IIHS Top Picks, we recommend the Honda CR-V and Element, Mitsubishi Outlander, and Subaru Forester. The Forester is our Top Rated small SUV.

Read our recent Small SUV and Sporty SUV tests covering many of the models featured here, including the Tiguan featured in the embedded CR road test video. Crash test videos based on the latest tests will be posted next week.

View more than 250 crash test videos.

—Eric Evarts

Connecticut Sets Example for Teen Driver Safety

Teen drivers die in fatal motor vehicle crashes at a rate at three times the rate for drivers ages 35-49. Hence, motor vehicle crashes remain the number-one killer of children under the age of 18. These young novice drivers are at elevated risk on the road because they have not yet developed the judgment and driving skill that comes with experience. Most states have implemented a three-stage graduated licensing system, in which the new driver obtains initial experience in lower risk conditions, such as driving with a parent, driving with a restricted number, or no passengers, and driving only during the day. Although most states have some form of graduated licensing program, the details of each of the programs varies widely across the country. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety also provides a rating of the graduated licensing system in each state.

As of August 1st, 2008, 16- and 17-year-olds learning to drive in Connecticut will have new driving and training laws as well as tough new suspensions for violations. These new requirements include:

Instead of a paper style learner’s permit, new drivers will receive a newly designed license document which incorporates the security features in other DMV license credentials.

16- and 17-year-old teens must take a longer more comprehensive test.

Drivers under 18 must be off the road by 11:00 PM.

Parents of those obtaining a learner’s permit must attend two hours of instruction on teen-driving laws before their teen takes his or her driving test.

On-road training is doubled from 20 to 40 hours.

Increased penalty for teen drivers’ and their passengers not wearing seat belts.

Increased suspension periods for 16- and 17-year-olds for reckless driving and vehicle racing.

60-day license suspension for speeding and 30-day suspension for use of cell phone while driving.

Teens that violate the provisions of the graduated license rules will lose their privileges for 30 days.

Suspension of license for at least one year upon referral to the DMV by the arresting officer for operating under the influence. Will be required to complete a mandatory Substance Abuse Training Program (SATP).

During the first six months of licensure, 16- and 17-year-old drivers can not have any passengers in the vehicle except for a licensed driving instructor, a parent or legal guardian, or a licensed person providing instruction who is at least 20 years old and whose license has not been suspended in the previous four years prior to training. During months seven through 12 of licensure, the only passengers allowed in the vehicle are members of the driver’s immediate family.

A full description of the new laws and other information can be found on the Connecticut DMV Web site.

If you are a parent of a soon-to-be teen driver, you might want to consider the benefits of having this type of graduated program. If you live in a state in which there are not strict enough guidelines, you may want to consider restricting teen driving privileges yourself in the interest of their safety and your own peace of mind. Each of the new restrictions in Connecticut is intended to address particularly risky behaviors and driving conditions that have been linked to teen driver crashes and fatalities. Additional information on each can be found at iihs.org. 

Also, visit our Kids and Car Safety special section.

-- Michelle Tsai

How to adjust your car seat for comfort, safety

We've all seen it: folks who drive with their car seat severely reclined, head barely appearing above the window sill, seemingly sitting in the back seat.

How you sit in a car affects not only your comfort, but your ability to control the car. Also, a car's safety features work best when you sit correctly; improper position can cause an increased risk of injury in case of an accident.

While vehicle features like telescoping steering wheels, seat and shoulder belt height adjustments, and power adjustable pedals help you tailor a good, safe driving position, it is up to you to use the car seat adjustments in your car properly. In our brief video, we give some tips for setting a proper seating position, regardless of what you drive.

—Tom Mutchler

Learn more about car safety.

From the archives: Motorcycle safety tips

Scanning through past Consumer Reports articles on motorcycles, scooters, and mopeds, advice from the June 1981 issue resonated with me today. The basic wisdom from decades past still applies today. I set this research aside to address later, along with lessons gleaned from the well-packaged Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s Guide to Motorcycling Excellence and other bike publications cluttering my desk. However, a news headline from Automotive News today ("Pininfarina CEO dies in road accident") drove home the importance of again sharing safety advice, particularly before a summer weekend. (Also see the Pininfarina company statement and New York Times article.)

Andrea Pininfarina, the CEO of famed automotive design firm Pininfarina, died this morning. He was reportedly riding a Vespa scooter to work when he was struck by a car. At this time, I do not know the particulars of this tragedy, though it underscores that safety must be of paramount concern when riding any motorcycle or scooter, and much of the following applies to both.

Excerpted from Consumer Reports, June 1981:

There are three main reasons [motorcycles have a higher death rate than automobiles]:

1. A motorcycle is much harder to see than a car.
2. A motorcycle offers its rider little or no protection
3. A motorcycle’s handling is tricky—if it skids, it often spills.

• Like any motorized two-wheeler, a motorcycle must be ridden with extreme care. Steering, accelerating, and braking require skill and a high degree of coordination to handle competently. If you’re used to power steering, power brakes, and automatic transmission, learning to balance a motorcycle while handling its clutch and gear-shifter can be a formidable task.
• If you’re a beginner, ride especially conservatively for the first six months or so. Learn to operate the clutch and both brakes smoothly and precisely, to avoid skidding. As your skill increases, gradually discover the limits of your motorcycle’s traction—but do it in a safe place, away from traffic, and do it carefully.
• A properly designed motorcycle, when cornered too hard, always skids out at the rear. To recover control, allow the skid to continue somewhat, without aggravating it. Reduce throttle so the engine is neither speeding you up nor slowing you down. Don’t touch the brakes. To maintain balance, steer in the direction of the skid—that is, turn the front wheel to the right if the rear wheel is skidding to the right. Brake only when you have the motorcycle under full control.
• Use the front brake carefully to avoid locking up the front wheel. If the front wheel begins to skid, release the brake instantly.
• Drive defensively. Assume that you are invisible and that motorists therefore will not give you the right of way. It’s unwise to place your life in the hands of every stranger who drives by.

Our current engineers also caution that traction varies widely on different road surfaces and in different weather. Learn to scan the pavement and determine the level of grip available. If it’s too shiny, it may be slick.

In the future, we explore the Consumer Reports archives further and dig deeper into safety and ownership issues. Learn more about motorcycle and scooter safety from the Motorcycle Safety Foundation.

—Jeff Bartlett

For more motorcycles and scooters coverage, read our blog entries:
Vespa LX150 scooter – A fair-weather friend
Tips on buying and driving a motorcycle or scooter
Downsizing to two wheels - Motorcycle interest revs up
Motorists move to scooters and motorcycles to save
Motorcycle death rates doubled; supersport bikes the most dangerous

Also, join in the Motorcycles & scooters forum discussion. 

Mapping out the safest roads

Are the roads in your neighborhood safe? Would you want to know how many accidents have occurred near your home or on the roads you take everyday? A new tool from the University of Minnesota’s Center for Excellence in Rural Safety maps out America’s deadliest roads. The site, www.saferoadmaps.org uses Google maps integrated with statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) to provide the details on crashes and fatalities.

Check out the Consumer Reports Safety blog for more details on how the site works. I also chronicle my experience finding out if the roads near where I live and along my commute route are dangerous death traps or safe havens.

—Liza Barth

Small pickup truck crash tests - Some results are dismal

For the first time, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has tested side-impact protection on small pickup trucks and the results are not favorable. (Learn about how the IIHS crash tests cars.) The Toyota Tacoma was the only pickup to earn the highest rating of good in the side test for occupant protection. The Dodge Dakota, Mitsubishi Raider, Ford Ranger, Mazda B Series, and Nissan Frontier all rated marginal; the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon rated poor in the side test, which simulates a side impact from an SUV or pickup.

The side-impact tests are important as it’s the second most common type of crash fatality. Side air bags are standard on more than 65 percent of new models and manufacturers are working to make them standard by the 2010 model year. A federal mandate on side air bags goes into effect for the 2015 model year.

Small pickups have the highest driver death rates of all vehicles and most occur in single-vehicle crashes and rollovers. Electronic stability control (ESC) is a key proven safety feature that can help prevent crashes and save lives, but the Toyota Tacoma and Nissan Frontier are the only pickups in this group that offer optional ESC. The 2009 version of the Tacoma, Colorado, and Canyon will come with standard ESC.

Small pickups
The July crash-test group is listed below in rank order, with the specific air bag configuration tested and applicable model years listed.

Toyota Tacoma, crew cab models
Front - Good; Side - Good; Rear – Marginal
With front and rear head-curtain air bags and front torso air bags (optional in 2005-2008 models, standard in 2009 models).
Front, side, and rear: 2005-2008 models

Dodge Dakota/Mitsubishi Raider, crew cab models
Front – Good; Side – Marginal; Rear – Acceptable
Without optional side air bags.
Front, side, and rear: 2005-2008 models

Nissan Frontier, crew cab models
Front – Good; Side – Marginal; Rear - Poor
Without optional side air bags.
Front, side, and rear: 2005-2008 models

Ford Ranger/Mazda B Series, extended cab models
Front – Acceptable; Side – Marginal; Rear – Poor
No side air bags available.
Front and side: 1999-2008 models, rear: 2006-2008 models

Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon, crew cab models
Front – Acceptable; Side – Poor; Rear – Marginal
Without optional side air bags.
Front, side, and rear: 2004-2008 models

Check out our crash test videos on more than 250 vehicles. This latest pickup truck test will be available soon in our video player.

—Liza Barth

When considering a new vehicle, make sure to review the available safety features and safety Ratings.

Dangers of hot cars

Summer is in full swing and that means it's not only hot outside, but the temperature inside your car can be life-threatening. Each year, an average of 36 children die from hyperthermia after being left inside a hot car. At least 20 infants and children have died so far this year, according to a recent study by San Francisco State University (SFSU). In 2007, there were 35 fatalities. The ages range from infants to 13 years old, but the average age is about 24 months old. From 1998 to 2007, more than half of the incidents were caused by caregivers who forgot a child in the vehicle.

A car can heat up quickly even when it's relatively mild outside. On a summer day, temperatures inside the vehicle can climb more than 40 degrees in just an hour. The SFSU study points out that heatstroke occurs when a person's body temperature exceeds 104 degrees F. At just a few degrees more, 107 degrees F, cells are damaged and internal organs shut down, which can result in death. Children are particularly vulnerable, as their bodies are not as efficient as adults' bodies at managing temperatures. As a result, kids warm up much more rapidly.

Tips to help prevent these deadly accidents:

Never leave a child or pet unattended in a vehicle.

Check the car to make sure that all occupants leave the vehicle or are carried out when unloading. If you lock the door with a key, rather than with a remote, it would force that one last look in the car before leaving it.

Always lock your car and keep keys and remotes away from children.

Keep a stuffed animal in the passenger seat as a reminder of a child in the backseat.

Have a plan that your childcare provider will call you if your child does not show up.

For additional information on keeping your children  safe in and around motor vehicles, visit the Kids and Cars Web site.  Also, check out our car safety video above and learn more about hot cars. And do take extra care during the summer months to ensure that children and pets are not left behind.

—Liza Barth

Older drivers - Not the menace we’ve been told?

Jerry Seinfeld tells a joke about older drivers to the effect that in Florida it’s customary to back out of the driveway without looking first. Indeed, part of our culture believes in stereotypes about older drivers: that they’re a danger to the rest of us; that they don’t use turn signals (or do but then don’t turn them off); that they drive too slowly; and that they migrate to Florida like birds.

The view of older drivers emerging from a number of recent studies paints a more sympathetic picture, especially when viewed in the context of other drivers.

A 2007 RAND Corporation study came to these surprising conclusions:

• Statistics show older drivers are 16 percent likelier to cause a crash than drivers aged 25 to 64. But younger drivers are 188 percent likelier than those aged 25 to 64 to cause a crash.
• Older drivers, who represent 15 percent of the driving population, cause only 7 percent of all two-car crashes, while younger people, who comprise 13 percent of drivers, cause 43 percent of all two-car crashes.
• Drivers aged 70 and older are less likely to cause a crash than those aged 55 to 65. Of course, older drivers also drive far fewer miles per capita each year than younger people. But on the basis of crashes per licensed driver, they look pretty safe.

The RAND study found that older drivers are only slightly likelier to cause an accident but are much more likely to be killed in one. In fact, older drivers are almost seven times more likely to die in a crash than young drivers are. This is attributed to the increasing physical frailty that overtakes people as they age.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has done a number of studies along similar lines. The IIHS summarizes the fragility issue this way:

"In terms of fatalities, older drivers are a danger mostly to themselves and their passengers, who also typically are older and thus more vulnerable to injuries."

Several other factors characterize older drivers as a group that make them less of a highway threat than many believe. One of the most important factor is that older drivers self-regulate.

Many older drivers curtail their driving, take only familiar roads, avoid rush hour, and don’t drive after dark. Young drivers, on the other hand, drive many more miles per capita and travel at all times of day, but are much less susceptible to fatal injuries if they do have a crash. The net result is that the older-driver pool self-selects in favor of the safest drivers in the group.

When it comes to the question of whether older drivers should face more stringent licensing requirements, the jury is still out. Typical restrictions, varying by state, include shorter renewal cycles, visual acuity tests, and in-person written and road tests. The IIHS says it’s not at all clear whether these steps make a meaningful difference in preventing crashes.

The state of Oregon, meanwhile, has adopted an interesting alternative. Rather than making impaired driving an age-based issue, Oregon treats all drivers the same. Hospitals, doctors, other first responders and in fact anyone else can fill out a short form requesting the Department of Motor Vehicles to review somebody’s driving skills. The DMV takes particular care to weed out tattle-tale reports, which officials have said are pretty easy to spot. But if there is any sound evidence that an Oregon driver is not operating a vehicle safely, then the agency can call that person in for some testing, and then perhaps suspend or revoke that driver’s license.

In general, these studies show that while your grandparents may dawdle in the slow lane, they are likely safer drivers than the whipper-snappers that pass them.

—Gordon Hard

Grand theft auto–The most stolen vehicles

You may be worried that your shiny, brand-new car could be a target for theft, but car thieves find older models are more attractive to steal. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau’s (NICB) statistics, the 1995 Honda Civic is the vehicle most reported stolen for 2007 and only two out of the top 10 vehicles are later models: the 2004 Dodge Ram pickup (# 7) and 2007 Toyota Corolla (#10). The NICB says thieves target older models because they provide valuable replacement parts.

Early data from the FBI Uniform Crime Report (UCR) reveals that motor vehicle theft is headed for an 8.9 percent decrease in 2007, according to NICB analysis.

Here is the list of most stolen vehicles:

1. 1995 Honda Civic
2. 1991 Honda Accord
3. 1989 Toyota Camry
4. 1997 Ford F-150 pickup
5. 1994 Chevrolet C/K 1500 pickup
6. 1994 Acura Integra
7. 2004 Dodge Ram pickup
8. 1994 Nissan Sentra
9. 1988 Toyota pickup
10. 2007 Toyota Corolla

Tips on how to avoid a break in or theft:

The easiest thing to do is to lock your car and take your keys with you at all times.

Never leave your car running unattended.

Keep windows closed when driving and parked.

Don’t store valuables or expensive electronic devices in plain sight. If you use a windshield-mounted GPS navigation devices, wipe off the telltale suction cup circle from the glass when not in use.

Park in a well-lit or public place. Use a garage if you have one available.

Use an alarm or visual warning device. These are common on new cars and may be installed aftermarket on older models.

Also standard on many late-model cars, smart keys or a fuel cut-offs system, aka engine immobilizer, can add security. Thieves won’t steal a car they cannot start.

VIN etching kits are inexpensive and can help protect vehicle glass from being resold after the car is stolen. You don’t need to pay the dealer several hundred dollars for this service when you buy a new car though.

For advanced protection, install a GPS or radio frequency tracking system in your vehicle to help police find it.

If you are in the market for a used car, see our used car buying advice for information on shopping for a used car, how to avoid a lemon, and how to inspect a used car.

—Liza Barth

How to reduce the risk of getting hurt on a motorcycle

People considering riding a motorcycle to save gas should be concerned about safety. After all, motorcycles are inherently less stable than cars and riders lack any significant protection from impacts. In fact, motorcyclists are about 34 times more likely to die in a crash than passenger car drivers, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Injuries also are often much more severe. However, a properly trained and outfitted rider can significantly reduce the risks, as revealed in the seminal study of the causes of motorcycle accidents and injuries, "Motorcycle Accident Cause Factors and Identification of Countermeasures."

Hugh Hurt, a motorcycle safety expert who now runs the Head Protection Research Laboratory, published a comprehensive study in 1981. While the study may be old, the scale and thoroughness provide valuable insights into accident causes, elements that enhance survivability, and ultimately suggests ways that motorcyclists can ride smarter and safer.

Hurt investigated 900 motorcycle accident scenes in the Los Angeles area. In addition, Hurt and his team analyzed 3,600 motorcycle traffic accident reports in the same region.

They summarized key factors that contributed to the investigated motorcycle accidents. The findings can be summed up in three solid pieces of advice:

Wear a helmet (and other dedicated protective clothing).

Make sure you're visible to other drivers.

Get training before you ride.

Beyond that, here are the main findings of the study in more detail:

INJURIES
The likelihood of injury is extremely high in motorcycle accidents. In the study, 98 percent of the multiple-vehicle collisions and 96 percent of the single-vehicle accidents resulted in some kind of injury to the motorcycle rider; 45 percent resulted in more than a minor injury.

Injury severity increases with speed, alcohol involvement, and motorcycle size. Wearing protective clothing can prevent or reduce abrasions and lacerations, which are frequent—but rarely severe.

ACCIDENT CAUSES
The failure of other motorists to detect and recognize motorcycles in traffic was found to be the predominant cause of motorcycle accidents.Approximately three-fourths of these motorcycle accidents involved collision with another vehicle, which was most often a car. The most frequent accident scenario was a car making a left turn in front of an oncoming motorcycle. Therefore, making the motorcycle and motorcyclist more conspicuous, especially from the front, is key to reducing accidents.

Accidents were found to be significantly reduced by using motorcycle headlamps and by the rider wearing a high-visibility yellow, orange, or bright red jacket. The study did not identify a clear link between motorcycle color and safety. The report said the color is likely to be insignificant because the accidents were most often frontal, where little of the motorcycle color would be visible to the other driver. Motorcycles equipped with fairings and windshields may improve visibility.

Most motorcycle accidents happened at intersections, involving a short trip, and occurred a very brief time after the trip originated.

LACK OF SKILLS AND PREPARATION
The typical motorcycle accident allows the rider less than 2 seconds to complete all collision avoidance actions.

Yet, riders involved in accidents had poor collision avoidance skills. Most riders would overbrake and skid the rear wheel and underbrake the front wheel, greatly reducing stopping power. The ability to countersteer and swerve was essentially absent.

The motorcyclists were found to be essentially without training; 92 percent were self-taught or learned from family or friends. Riders with previous experience riding dirt bikes were less likely to be involved in accidents than others.

Seventy-three percent of the riders in accidents rode without eye protection, and it is likely that the wind on the unprotected eyes contributed to impaired vision, which delayed hazard detection.

Inexperience with the bike is a major factor. More than half the riders involved in accidents had less than five months experience on the accident motorcycle, although the total street-riding experience was almost three years.

Bottom line: get proper training, be visible, and wear a bright jacket and full protective gear.

Riders, have your own tips? Please share them in the comments section, or in our forum.

—Eric Evarts

Also read: "Motorcycle death rates doubled" and "Motorists move to scooters and motorcycles to save".

Government enhances its crash test program for 2010

Beginning with the 2010 model year, new vehicle window stickers will feature an overall safety rating that combines frontal, side, and rollover tests, similar to Consumer Reports overall safety rating we have been compiling since 2001. Behind that rating will be several upgrades to the tests and rating processes used by the federal government. Most notably, female crash dummies will be used and a new side pole test will simulate a vehicle striking a tree.

Results from tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) through its New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) will be supplemented by a rating to indicate if advanced safety technologies such as electronic stability control (ESC), lane departure warning systems, and forward collision warning systems, are optional or standard equipment. However, the government agency will not rate the effectiveness of individual  devices.

High-impact changes
Changes to the program are warranted to better differentiate the crash performance between vehicles and clearly communicate which cars are safer to car shoppers. Back in 1978 when NHTSA began crashing cars at 35 mph in to a flat barrier and rating them for frontal impact safety. At the time less than 30 percent of the models tested earned four or five stars, or the equivalent, for the front driver. However, for model-year 2007, 98 percent of test vehicles earned four or five stars. Today, it can be  difficult for consumers to differentiate the performance for competing models based on NHTSA data alone.

NHTSA will continue to perform its front crash test at 35 mph using a rigid barrier. The side crash test remains based on a 3,015-pound car traveling at 38.5 mph striking the left side of the car.

These tests are notably different from those conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The IIHS used a frontal-offset test conducted at 40 mph, which simulates a typical head-on crash with another similar car. For the side test, the IIHS uses a 3,300-pound moving barrier that strikes higher up on the tested vehicle to simulate the car being hit on the side at 90 degrees by a typical-height SUV or truck. It is conducted at a lower speed, 31 mph. (See crash tests performed by IIHS.)

A new side-impact pole test has also been included in the NHTSA proposal that simulates a vehicle sliding off the road and hitting a tree or telephone pole. This is a more severe test than the regular NCAP test, but it will only assess the injuries to the driver. As the new side-crash pole test is phased in, most vehicles will meet the test requirements by September 2014. On the road to improving side safety, all new passenger vehicles will meet the head injury requirements of the Institute’s moving deformable barrier test by September 2009.

The addition of a small female dummy will enable to the tests to better represent a broad range of body types, specifically addressing women and larger children. In addition, new testing for leg injuries will be done, adding to the injury risk assessment.

Not done yet
Consumers Union, as well as other organizations and automakers, submitted recommendations to NHTSA when comments were solicited on this topic last year. Notably, CU was a proponent for the female crash test dummy, and we supported maintaining the current crash test speeds.

While we are encouraged by the advancements this program will make, there were several suggestions made by CU that did not make the cut and we feel have merit:

• Conduct a dynamic rollover test to assess body structure, seat belt design (including pretension), side-curtain airbags, roof strength, door locks and, and the retention of window glazing, rather than the static roof crush tests.
• Review the implementation of rear-impact tests, like those conducted by the IIHS.
• Consider a manufacturer self-certifying process in which the industry would test and rate its own vehicles and undergo spot checking of their test results by NHTSA. This would operate much like the verification test process used by the IIHS for front crash ratings, and it would accelerate the availability for crash data to consumers.
• Research a rear-visibility rating to address blind zones that put children at risk.
• Work with international safety researchers to develop a pedestrian-friendly rating.

Bottom line
We applaud the efforts made by NHTSA to improve its automobile safety program and the work to be done by the auto industry to address the increasingly stringent safety standards.

In the end, the consumers win. Car safety continues to improve, and a clearer presentation of more-detailed crash-test results and standard safety equipment can empower car shoppers to make better, informed purchase decisions.

—Jeff Bartlett 

Learn more about Car Safety, and view more than 250 crash test videos showing the tests conducted by the IIHS.

   

Fuel economy feedback

A number of letters and e-mails have reached my desk regarding our most recent test of compact economy cars in the July 2008 test group.

One of the more frequent comments was why we didn't test Volkswagen's diesel models. We would have loved to include a TDI Jetta or Rabbit, but there's one, slight problem: neither are currently for sale in the United States. We tested a Jetta TDI in 2006 (available to subscribers) and got 34 mpg overall. VW plans to reintroduce the Jetta TDI this August; we'll buy and test one as soon as we can. (Read "How we test fuel economy.")

Another comment burning up my in-box was from readers saying how their 3-cylinder Geo Metro got 50 mpg gallon and "Why the heck aren't modern cars as fuel efficient?" One of the reasons cars today haven't made greater strides in fuel economy is that while engines and transmissions have gotten more powerful and efficient, the cars themselves have gotten heavier. You see, over the years, we've all become accustomed to air conditioning, power windows and door locks, quiet (heavily insulated) interiors, and high-end, multi-speaker stereo systems. Plus we take comfort in having front and side air bags, side-impact door beams, and solid overall structures. Plus, larger vehicles are often fitted with all-wheel drive and third-row seats. All of these creature comforts and safety gear add weight. And the extra poundage detracts from fuel economy.

Also, the engines and transmissions in cars today have helped improve performance to levels that was unheard of 20 years ago. For example, the last Toyota RAV4 V6 we tested went from 0-60 mph in 6.7 seconds and still returned 22 mpg overall. Our model had a third-row seat, standard stability control, and could tow 3,500 pounds. Put this in historical perspective and it's impressive: A two-seat Nissan 300ZX we tested in 1992 made it to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds, but certainly didn’t have the utility, safety equipment, fuel economy, or light-duty off-road ability of a modern RAV4.

However, in some respects, while cars haven't made the fuel economy strides they could have, all the vehicles are a LOT safer. While most of this safety equipment adds weight, we think it's a fair tradeoff. And when you think about it, the 1980s micro cars were all very thrifty on fuel, but none had antilock brakes, stability control, or front-, side-, or head-protection air bags.

Ideally, we think fuel economy should not come at the expense of safety. Today's cars are safer than anything built 20-30 years ago; they’re also cleaner and more comfortable. I don't miss the "good old days" in terms of automotive safety. And the future looks exciting with all the emerging technologies (electric cars; plug-in hybrids; cleaner diesels). And yes, we'll test all that we can, once they become available.

—Mike Quincy

For information on the most fuel-efficient cars and alternative fuels, see our guide to driving green. Also, see our video above on how to improve your gas mileage.

Tips on buying and driving a motorcycle or scooter

Anxious to reduce your fuel costs and looking to a motorcycle or scooter? If you can accept the significant safety risks, but are not sure where to start, here are some tips to aid your purchase and use.

Do I need a license? Motorcyclists usually require a special license. Check with your local DMV to determine operator age or engine size restrictions.  In some states, a scooter that displaces less than 50cc requires only a vehicle license to operate, not a motorcycle license. New York State for example, requires a special license when the top speed of the scooter or motorcycle goes above 30 mph. Below that, you don’t need a special license, but there are limitations on where it can be operated. Vehicles that go below 30 mph need to stay in the right lane or shoulder. Other states require completion of a motorcycle training course. Check with your local DMV as the laws vary based on the state in which you live.

How to learn to ride? A training class for motorcycles or scooters is highly recommended, especially for first-time riders. Beyond learning balance, the use of throttle, brakes, and cornering are all very different from driving an automobile. Professional instructors can teach proper, safe riding techniques, explaining such things as how to ride in a lane and how to remain visible to other vehicles.

What about insurance? You need insurance to drive a motorcycle or scooter, and it’s less expensive than insuring a car. You can start by checking with your current vehicle insurer to see if they offer insurance. You must register the vehicle with the DMV, as well.

Is a helmet required? Helmet laws vary in each state. Currently, only 20 states require one for everyone, but other states require them by age. Your local DMV will be able to help. Consumer Reports recommends full-face helmet use for everyone. Head injury is the leading cause of death in motorcycle crashes. In 2006, 41 percent of motorcycle deaths were from those not wearing a helmet. When purchasing a helmet, look for ones that are compliant with the Department of Transportation standards (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 218).

What gear is important? In addition to buying the bike/scooter, you need to determine what gear is necessary. Besides a helmet, a face shield will help protect you against the elements (which can include dust, wind, rain, pebbles, and bugs). Glasses or goggles are not as effective as a full-face shield. Motorcycle-specific jackets, pants, boots, and gloves are also necessary to protect you in the event of a crash and from the heat, cold, debris, or mechanical elements on the bike. Bright colors can help make you more visible. Investing in proper motorcycle gear can provide significant protection, particularly from road rash, over regular street clothes.

Consider parking. Before you purchase that motor bike for your commute, consider where you will park. In most cities, you can park on the street like cars, but there is the risk of the vehicle being knocked over or vandalized. You may also get a ticket if you try to park in between designated spaces. In the city of Chicago, for example, motorcycles and scooters must be parked perpendicular to the street. Check with your local town/city for the guidelines. If you decide you want to be safe and park at a garage or lot, make sure that the garage allows them and check the fees—they may be the same as passenger cars.

If you have any other tips to share on motorcycles and scooters, please post in the comments below or visit our forum to discuss two-wheelers with other consumers.

—Liza Barth

Also read: "Motorists move to scooters and motorcycles to save".

To learn more about motorcycle riding from the American Motorcyclist Association.

More telematics options coming soon

Telematics, the combination of telecommunications and computing technology, is becoming more common in the vehicles we drive, offering a variety of safety and convenience features. In our last telematics blog, we covered some new features coming to GM’s OnStar system. Here, we will preview a new, competing system coming soon from Hughes Technologies.

Hughes recently gave us a demo of the system that will soon be available Chrysler and Mercedes-Benz models. Sitting in a Jeep Grand Cherokee equipped with it, a company engineer started by selecting music by genre and artist by simply asking for it. The system complied, but this was small-change stuff we’ve seen before on the Ford Sync entertainment system. Next, he asked for a Seattle weather report. With no hesitation, the system reported it was raining. (What a surprise.)

The engineer also listened to and then replied to an e-mail by giving a spoken response, which the Hughes system repeated back to him for approval before sending.

Next up was a demo of customized personalized morning news, an example of how a user could set it up to start their daily commute. In the engineer’s example, the Jeep rattled off a few stock quotes, the local weather, sports scores for a favorite team, which local gas station had the best price today, and which of three pre-programmed routes looked like it had the least traffic for the ride to work. Your own morning routine could be whatever helps get you going. Maybe it’s the shortest distance to the nearest Starbucks, the joke of the day, a favorite tune for a quick sing along, or perhaps a compliment on your tie. “Good morning! My, you look sharp! By the way, the Mobil on the corner is $3.95 for a gallon of regular!” The possibilities are literally endless.

In terms of safety, Hughes engineers used the example of one Chrysler vehicle that had sixteen sensors around the car that could, among other things, determine the severity of a crash. Not only could the system automatically alert first responders after an accident, it could also tell them which part of the vehicle was hit. This could enable rescue personnel to better know what to expect upon arriving on the scene and prepare accordingly.

And then there’s the whole area of the car’s operation and maintenance. A telematics system can tell you all kinds of things, from low tire pressure in the right front, to why the “check engine” light is on. It can also tell you whether you should stop your car immediately or if it’s OK to keep driving. Reports of the car’s entire maintenance history can even be generated, you name it.

But with all this hands-free technology, we strongly remind drivers not to stop concentrating on the road ahead. Even though you’re not hitting lots of buttons here, you can still be distracted by this interactive system and focus less on the car in front of you.

Welcome to the future. The word is telematics. And it’s here.

--Jim Travers

For more on high-tech driving aids, visit our Mobile electronics special section. And join the discussions in our Mobile electronics & auto technology forums.

Car, SUV, and tire recalls

There have been a few significant recalls announced in the past few weeks affecting Dodge, Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen, plus a Toyota safety enhancement and a recall on tire valve stems. If your vehicle is listed here, you will be contacted by the manufacturer with the information on what you need to do or we provide a number to contact yourself. However, the valve stem recall requires action on the owner’s part.

2009 Dodge Journey

Chrysler is recalling almost 6,700 Dodge Journey SUVs equipped with a 3.5-liter engine due to a problem with the engine wiring harness that could contact the left transaxle mount and cause an engine fire.

Dealers will inspect the engine wiring harness for damage and repair to secure the harness away from the left transaxle mount.

Chrysler has yet to announce when owners will be notified. In the meantime, owners can call Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403.

2005-2006 Land Rover LR3 and Range Rover Sport

Land Rover is recalling over 37,000 LR3 and Range Rover Sport vehicles. The relative motion between the steering wheel hub and/or steering column cowl with the clockspring, which contains air bag circuitry, could cause a fracture in the driver-side air bag wiring connection. The SRS warning light will illuminate to alert the driver that a repair is necessary, but if a driver ignores the light and gets into a crash, the air bag may not deploy properly.

Dealers will make the necessary repairs to fix the alignment. The recall is expected to begin around July 21st. Owners may contact Land Rover at 1-800-637-6837.

2006-2008 Mercedes-Benz GL & ML class

Mercedes-Benz is recalling over 52,000 GL and ML class vehicles equipped with the Flex-N-Gate trailer hitch. Some of the seams connecting the hitch to the attachment bar used to connect it to the body frame do not meet specifications and may result in the hitch separating from the attachment bar.

Dealers will repair the trailer hitch and owners are urged not to use the hitch until it is repaired. Owners may contact Mercedes-Benz at 1-800-367-6372.

2008 Volkswagen Passat & 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan

Volkswagen is recalling over 4,000 Volkswagen Passat and 2,500 Tiguan vehicles equipped with 2.0T FSI ULEV II engines. The problem occurs when the engine is in idle and the air conditioning is turned on, the software may not control engine idle. As a result, the engine could surge unexpectedly.

Dealers will inspect and update the engine control module that contains the software, free of charge.

The recall began at the end of May. Owners may contact Volkswagen at 1-800-893-5298.

2004-2006 Toyota Sienna

Toyota is conducting a safety improvement campaign on over 196,000 Toyota Sienna minivans equipped with power rear liftgate struts. The gas struts used to help lift the rear power liftgate could wear out earlier than expected and could eventually cause the liftgate to fall a few inches or completely close.

Dealers will replace the gas struts with new ones that have a longer life. Owners can contact Toyota at 1-888-270-9371.

Tech International tire valve stems

Tech International is recalling 6 million snap-in valve stems manufactured between July and November 2006. The rubber portion of the stem could crack and cause a loss of tire pressure, potentially leading to a crash.

Tech International will replace the valve systems and the tire if necessary. Owners may contact Tech International at 1-740-967-9015.

For more information about this recall, read the Safety blog’s report: "Warning issued on faulty tire valve stems following rollover death."

—Liza Barth

Motorists move to scooters and motorcycles to save

With the rising cost of fuel, consumers are looking at other transportation options to ease the burden on their wallets. Consequently, interest in motorcycles and motor scooters has increased dramatically of late, evidenced by both sales and feedback from our readers. Because of this two-wheeler trend, Consumer Reports is taking a closer look at these products, including with this segment overview and reality check on safety.

Sales are revving up
Historically, motorcycles (which include on-highway scooters) have been increasing in sales and registrations since the mid-1990s, with cruisers and touring bikes having particular appeal to empty-nest baby boomers. In 2006, there were over 6.6 million motorcycle registrations, which is an increase of almost 500,000 from the previous year and up significantly over the past 10 years. Sales in 2006 are estimated to be just under 1.2 million.

According to the Motorcycle Industry Council, sales of scooters are up about 24 percent for the first few months of 2008. Yamaha scooter sales to date this year are up 65 percent over last year. Vespa set an all-time sales record in May, moving 2,758 scooters in the United States, besting the previous record from June, 2007, of 1,675.

The attraction of two wheels
Motorcycles and scooters offer increased fuel economy over traditional vehicles, ranging anywhere from manufacturer claims of 40 to more than 100 mpg depending on the engine size, vehicle weight, and passenger size, which can mean significant savings over most cars.

While the fuel benefits are alluring to buyers, there are some compromises—one is the limitation from driving in all seasons and the second is safety. Scooters and motorcycles are not good year- round transportation if you live in the Snow Belt. E