When exploring your options, perhaps the best way to start is by identifying the different types of electric vehicles available for purchase. As you’ll see, just because it includes the words “electric vehicle” in the description doesn’t mean you won’t have to keep buying gasoline.In fact, some “electric vehicles” aren’t even the kind you have to plug in so that it can charge.

As you begin your journey with electric vehicles (EVs), you’ll quickly learn that charging your vehicle means plugging in to one of three kinds of charging levels: Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3.And, as you’ll further see, these levels have implications regarding charging voltage, frequency, and current. However, the most significant aspect EV drivers will associate with charging levels has to do with speed — as in, “How rapidly will each level of charging put range back into my car’s battery?

People have questions about electric vehicles — this cheat sheet provides some answers. Whether it’s about the mysteries of charging, the vagaries of tax laws, extending battery life, or having a set of talking points you can use when people are asking you why you’re investing in an electric vehicle, this cheat sheet has you covered.

If you've ever been stuck on the side of the road with a dead battery, you know the frustration of having a pair of jumper cables but not knowing exactly how to use them. This video takes you step by step through the jump starting process, including which cables are attached to which vehicle and where and when to give up and call a tow truck.

Following some basic auto repair safety rules and a monthly maintenance schedule will keep you safe and prevent auto problems later. Disassembling auto parts and putting them back together is easier if you stay calm and avoid distractions.Auto repair safety rulesWhen you’re repairing your car or doing basic maintenance, practice these safety methods to avoid injury to yourself and damage to your automobile and to be prepared in case of a mishap: Don’t smoke while you’re working on your vehicle.

If your vehicle has squishy-feeling brakes, the way to get the air out of the lines is to bleed the brakes. To do the job, you need either a brake bleeder wrench or a combination wrench that fits the bleeder nozzle on your vehicle, a can of the proper brake fluid, a clean glass jar, and a friend. If you have ABS, EBD, BA, or another sophisticated brake system, you should really have a professional bleed the brakes for you to avoid getting air into the actuator.

Having a flat tire and not knowing how to change it can leave you feeling helpless. With a few simple tools, you can do it yourself. Changing a tire is easy, and everyone should have a general idea of what's involved. Watch this video or follow the steps below: Secure the vehicle so that it won't roll; and roll the spare tire to the scene of the action.