(March 21, 2013) BETHESDA, Md. — How will you spend your tax refund? Another flat-screen TV? An iPad? Clothes? The Car Care Council has a better idea for your money: spend it on your second biggest investment, your car.

"Whether it's an oil change, replacing brakes or new belts and hoses, that periodic repair bill is a drop in the bucket compared to monthly payments on a new car," said Rich White, executive director Car Care Council.

(March 21, 2013) SANTA MONICA, Calif. — American auto brands are gaining strength with younger buyers in the U.S., while their Japanese rivals have taken a big step back, reports Edmunds.com.

(March 18, 2013) SANTA MONICA, Calif. — Extraneous credit checks could put an unnecessary dent in a credit score. That's why Edmunds.com advises car buyers to know when they should and should not grant car dealers permission to run a credit check.

(March 14, 2013) ATLANTA — Most U.S. drivers reported talking on their cell phone and about one in three read or send text or email messages when driving, according to a new study released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

(March 14, 2013) WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif. — Recent investments made by automakers and dealers in improving the customer service experience are paying off in terms of more highly satisfied and loyal service customers, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2013 U.S. Customer Service Index (CSI) Study released Wednesday.

(March 12, 2013) YONKERS, N.Y. — As owners hold on to their vehicles longer, fewer late-model used cars are available for sale, resulting in a limited supply and higher prices. To help Americans choose the best used car for their money, Consumer Reports compiled a Best & Worst Used Cars list for model years 2003 through 2012.

(March 12, 2013) WASHINGTON — General Motors took home the most awards with six of its models across three of its brands as winners — Chevrolet Suburban, Chevrolet Traverse, Chevrolet Cruze, Buick Verano, Buick Lacrosse and Cadillac Escalade — in the annual U.S. News & World Report "Best Cars for Families" ratings announced today.

(March 11, 2013) CHICAGO — The editors at Cars.com have released their list of the top 10 used cars that they recommend for shoppers who are looking to spend around $10,000. With a used car market that is sparser than it used to be, car shoppers have fewer options to choose from and higher prices to pay, but the Cars.com experts compiled a list of 10 used cars that will help shoppers get the best bang for their buck around the $10,000 price point.

(March 8, 2013) SANTA MONICA, Calif. — Both automakers and car buyers put a lot of thought into keeping drivers and passengers safe when they're on the road. But what about pets? Edmunds.com identifies 10 SUV's, minivans, hatchbacks and wagons that offer the most safety and comfort for everyone's favorite furry friends.

"Not only are these vehicles safe for pets, but they also offer a certain measure of convenience for pet owners," said Edmunds.com Automotive Content Editor Warren Clarke. "And with each one of these vehicles starting at under $35,000, owners won't have to chase their own tails to make ends meet."