Hot Driving & Safety How-Tos
How To: Pass a California DMV Driving Test
If all things go well, you'll only have to take your road test once. That's the goal: to ace your test on the first try and then start driving on your own. Granted, it's a nerve-racking experience, but keep in mind that the California Department of Motor Vehicles wants you to pass. So much so, they give you the examination answers ahead of time! All you have to do is study.
How To: Unlock a Car Door with a Clothes Hanger
This video shows you how to unlock a car door with a hanger but warns it isn't easy and may take some practice. First you will need a hanger as long as your arm, then insert the hanger in the hole on the left side of the window. Try to feel around and find the pin inside the hole. After you find the pin pull up on it. Try not to lock your keys in your car so you don't have to do this anymore.
How To: Operate the headlamps on a 2010 Prius
Toyota USA shows you how to operate the headlights of the 2010 Prius. Follow this guide to operate the headlights on the 2010 Prius: To turn on the headlights, use the switch on the end of the left hand stalk. Rotate it once to turn on the parking lights, twice to turn on the headlights. The fog lights are switched on my rotating the inner control ring. If your model comes with LED headlamps, you can turn on the headlamp washers by pushing the button located to the left of the steering wheel.
How To: Pair a phone through Bluetooth with a 2010 Prius
Learn how to pair a phone through Bluetooth with a 2010 Prius in simple steps. 1. You can connect your phone to the vehicle through Bluetooth without using any wires. 2. Press the 'Info Phone' button on the right side of the display screen, press 'Phone' now and press 'Yes' when prompted. 3. Now enter the pass code when prompted on your phone to pair it successfully. 4. You can pair more than a single phone by using the same process but you can use only one at a time. 5. You can also transfer...
How To: Break into Your Car to Retrieve Your Keys
Have you ever locked your keys inside of your car before? I net you have, you've felt the frustration, you've felt the pain, but don't pull out that cell phone just yet... you don't need a locksmith.
Quick Tip: Pointing Your Car Remote at Your Head Increases Its Range
Keyless entry remotes are great, but they don't always work how you want them to. One of the most common complaints is that they just don't reach far enough, and there's nothing more annoying when you can't remember where you parked. After all, what's the point of having "remote" entry if you have to be right next to the car for it to work?
How To: Set the onboard clock in a 2010 Toyota Prius
In this tutorial, we learn how to set the onboard clock in a 2010 Prius. To the left of the audio system are the clock buttons. To set this, press repeatedly or press and hold the "h" or "m" button to change the hours or minutes. Then, you will be able to set the correct time. Above the clock buttons is a switch that will change your reading from miles per hour to kilometers per hour. The controls on the Prius are completely customizable so you can control what you see on your car and when. M...
How To: View gas "empty" distance on a 2010 Ford Lincoln MKX
If you own a 2010 Ford Lincoln MKX, you probably never knew about this handy feature. Not only can you see how much gas you have left in your car's tank, but you can see an estimate of how many kilometers or miles your car has left until your gas tank is empty. This is extremely helpful if you're in unknown territory. Watch and see how to set your Information Center to see how much gas you have remaining until empty in your 2010 Lincoln MKX.
Skip the Long DMV Line: Renew Your Driver's License at a AAA Office Instead (No Membership Required)
If there's one way to get a visceral response from someone, it's bringing up the DMV. Regardless of the reason, whether it's the long lines, disgruntled employees, or just general inefficiency, I have yet to meet a single person who doesn't mind the trip. Just look at all those happy faces.
How To: Start a car without needing the key
Please only use the information in this video if you have lost your own car key or you are helping out a friend who has lost theirs! If you need to start a car without the key, this tutorial shows you how to find the wires in the steering column to find the eight cables underneath. Here's what to look for and then what to do so you can get your car running and go to where you need to be.
How To: Enter Address in Hyundai Tucson Navigation System
How to enter an address in the navigation (infotainment) system in a Hyundai Tucson (2015–2016 model, formerly known as ix35) as well as other Hyundai models with similar systems.
How To: Are You Being Followed? How to Check Your Car for GPS Tracking Devices
There's been a lot in the news lately about tracking devices, and it's been pretty much all bad. They can be useful if your car gets stolen, but if you weren't the person who installed it, chances are you don't want it there. Just type "GPS tracking device" into Google and on any given day you'll find an article about someone who got busted by one of these things. Even if you don't have to worry about getting into trouble, you still don't want people following you. Here's how to make sure you...
How To: Read the information displays inside a 2010 Toyota Prius
In this tutorial, we learn how to read the information displays inside a 2010 Prius. There are a lot of features on the Prius that can improve your fuel economy. The energy monitor and hybrid system indicator can help you save gas and tell you how your car is running, along with what kind of power it's using. On the next screen, you can monitor the consumption of your gas so you can see what mpg you are getting in the last hour or five minutes you were driving! You can do this for a trip or f...
How To: Pair your cell phone in a 2010 Toyota 4Runner
This instructional video demonstrates how to pair a Bluetooth-enabled cell phone with a 2010 Toyota 4Runner that does not have a navigational system. In a series of simple steps, the 2-minute video covers the precise process of pairing one's phone with the vehicle. Then, it finishes by showing how the voice-activated system in the 4Runner can be used to make a phone call. This short, step-by-step tutorial is perfect for anybody with a Toyota 4Runner who is having difficulty getting a cell pho...
How To: Pair your bluetooth phone to Ford SYNC
Sometimes pairing your mobile phone with your car is a difficult and unwritten chore to accomplish. But now with Ford's new SYNC system, you can easily pair your cell phone. It's as easy as pressing the Phone button. Let it search for already stored bluetooth devices, and if none are stored, simply press the Arrow buttons until you see the Add Bluetooth Device option. It's that easy!
How To: Want to Find Your Stolen Car Fast? Forget the Police and Call a Taxi
A car is stolen every 33 seconds in the United States, and from that, the percentage of vehicles recovered in the first day is a whopping 52 percent. Over the next week, that number rises to around 79 percent, but after those initial seven days are up, it's unlikely the vehicle will be found.
How To: Use the smart key for the 2010 Toyota Prius
In this video, we learn how to use the smart key for the 2010 Prius. You can use this just like any other keyless entry system. Press the lock button to lock the doors and the unlock button to unlock the doors. When you press unlock once it unlocks the drivers door, if you press it twice within 3 seconds, it unlocks all the door. After 60 seconds, the Prius will automatically lock itself. Press the red alarm key if you need to draw attention to yourself in an emergency situation. Make sure yo...
How To: Operate the solar powered vent system in a 2010 Toyota Prius
In this tutorial, we learn how to operate the solar powered vent system in a 2010 Prius. Prius models that come with a moon roof also have a solar powered roof. The control switch is on the left hand side of the steering wheel. With the ignition on and the switch turned on, you can exit and allow the ventilation system to start to clean the air out of the car. Since this doesn't rely on power, it will not drain your battery. This is not only eco-friendly, it's also great for your health and c...
How To: Use different drive modes in the 2010 Toyota Prius
In this tutorial, we learn how to use different drive modes in the 2010 Prius. The Prius offers a smooth and gentle ride, and new technology lets you tailor the driving experience to your needs. All you have to do is press the button and let the car do the rest. The EV mode lets you drive for longer distances at low speeds using the electric motor only. This is an extremely quiet ride that doesn't produce any emissions. The ECO mode makes the most of fuel economy, even on stop and go city str...
How To: Operate the backup camera on the 2010 Toyota Prius
In this tutorial, we learn how to operate the backup camera on the 2010 Prius. The Prius models can come equipped with a navigation and a backup camera. When you shift into reverse, the navigation screen will change to show what the camera sees behind the vehicle. You will also hear a repeating beep to indicate that you are going in reverse. This is a great tool to use while you are backing up your vehicle, which can help you avoid small things in the road. This is also a great tool to help a...
How To: Operate the audio system of a 2010 Toyota Prius
In this tutorial, we learn how to operate the audio system of a 2010 Prius. Every Prius comes standard with a 6-speaker AM/FM tuner with a single CD player. There is an 8-speaker with 6-disk changer available as well. The top of the line comes with a premium auto system and a navigation system. The left hand knob switches the system on and off and controls the volume. To set a radio station, use the manual knob and press it down until you hear a beep when you find the station you want to list...
How To: Open & utilize the trunk area of a 2010 Prius
In this tutorial, we learn how to open & utilize the trunk area of a 2010 Prius. To access the cargo area, open the rear hatch by pressing on the release above the license plate. To keep items out of sight, there is a sliding cover that you can pull back and hook into slots. To open, pull towards you slightly, then reel it in. There is additional space under the floor which can be accessed by twisting the locks and removing from the vehicle. Underneath this, there is a cargo bin, and undernea...
How To: Use the auxiliary audio port in a 2010 Prius
In this video tutorial, viewers learn how to use the auxiliary audio port in a 2010 Toyota Prius. This car is equipped with a mini plug auxiliary input port in the lower rear section of the center console, below the armrest. This will allow users to use personal playback devices such as an iPod. Simply plug the device into the mini plug socket and press the AUX button to listen through the car's audio system. This video will benefit those viewers who have a Toyota Prius car, and would like to...
How To: Pop the trunk automatically on a Lincoln MKX
This quick video tutorial shows you how to open and close the trunk of a Lincoln MKX with just a push of two buttons. It's prefect for anybody was has to carry tons of books or groceries from their home to the trunk. It prevents you from needing to put the stuff down in order to open the trunk manually. So if you own, or plan on owning, this car check this video out!
How To: Set a waypoint destination in a 2010 Ford Lincoln MKX
It's easy to get around in the 2010 Ford Lincoln MKX, because it has a built-in navigation system. But how do you use it? How do you find your way around? This video will show you the steps necessary to set a waypoint on the touch screen inside the 2010 Lincoln MKX. Getting directions is so easy!
How To: Choose the safest possible parking space
Cars are expensive to buy, replace or repair. Check out this video and learn how to avoid the most statistically dangerous parking areas. There is no guarantee that no one will touch your vehicle, but by take precautions you are much less likely to be targeted.
How To: Get turn by turn directions with Ford SYNC
If you have just purchased a new Ford Taurus, you may have noticed the new SYNC feature. SYNC is a GPS built right into your dashboard. If this is your first time using a global positioning system, you may need a few pointers. Check out this video and learn how to access step by step directions and get where you need to go.
How To: Remotely access the a/c in a 2010 Prius
Prius models that are equipped with tilt-slide moon roof have a remote control button on their smart keys for the remote air-conditioning system. Before leaving the vehicle, make sure the headlights are switched off or set to auto. All windows are closed and check the temperature setting of the AC system. As you return to the Prius, press the remote AC button on the smart key remote to activate the air conditioning system. The cabin will cool to the pre-set temperature without turning on the ...
How To: Operate the windshield wipers in a 2010 Prius
Toyota USA provides this quick video guide to show you how to use the windshield wipers in the 2010 Prius. If you want to control the wipers and washers, take the following steps: To operate the wipers, move the right hand stalk up for a single wipe, or move it down to activate the intermittent setting. Move the stalk down one more position to select a slow and constant wiper mode. One more down pull selects the fast wiper mode. Pulling the entire stalk towards you will activate the windshiel...
How To: Open the gas door & cap in a 2010 Prius
Learn how to open the gas door and cap in a 2010 Toyota Prius in simple steps. Locate the remote fuel filler door which can be found on the floor next to the driver seat. Pull the lever up to open the fuel filler door. Remove the cap by turning it slowly counter clockwise and hang it on the filler door. After filling the recommended fuel place the cap and turn clockwise till you hear a click sound. Finally lock the fuel filler door to finish.
How To: Operate cruise control in a 2010 Prius
Operating the Toyota Prius 2010 cruise control is very simple if you watch this video. The switches of the cruise control is located on the stock which is behind the right side of the steering wheel. The on/off button is at the end of the stock. Once you turn it on, accelerate to your desired speed and push the stock down to set it on the current speed. If desired to change speed, hold the stock up to increase the speed and release it when speed desired is reached, and to decrease the speed h...
How To: Use parking assist mode in the 2010 Prius
Learn how to use the parking assist mode in the new 2010 Toyota Prius in simple steps. Press the Intelligent parking assist button located under the power button when you park you car. Now select the type of parking you want to park your car which is either parallel parking or back in mode. For the parallel parking stay 3 feet away from the vehicle to your right and stop when you hear a beep. Press OK when ready, release the steering and gently control the speed as the system will steer for y...
How To: Operate headlights manually on a 2010 Toyota 4Runner
This video shows you how easy it is to operate the headlights manually on a 2010 Toyota 4Runner. On the end of the directional lever is the control knob to your exterior lights. When the white hash mark is pointing at "O" the lights are off. In the DRL position when the engine is running and the parking brake is released, the amber lights next to the fog lights come on to make it easy for other drivers to see you during the day. The next position rotated upwards is the parking lights. Rotatin...
How To: Pair phones to a 2010 Toyota 4Runner navigation system
In a 2010 Toyota 4Runner, you can connect your phone to the car via Bluetooth. To do this, make sure the car is stopped. Then click the info button next to the navigation screen. Press "Phone" and confirm that you want to connect a new phone. Press "Add New". The car's system will begin searching for Bluetooth devices. Make sure that your device's Bluetooth feature is on. When prompted, enter the code on the car's navigation screen into your phone. A message that says "Bluetooth connection su...
How To: Unlock a Car Without a Key
How many times have you locked your key inside your car and had to pay those outrageous locksmith fees? Ever worked for an hour or sometimes longer trying to coax a coat hanger in through a window, all the while wishing there was an easier way to unlock your car door? Well, there is, and this video will show you how. You can pop that lock open in a matter of seconds with something as simple as a tennis ball. Check it out!
How To: Get a Free Tow Home This New Year's Instead of Leaving Your Car at the Bar (Or Driving, You Drunk Fool)
Assuming that you're not going to knit a sweater and celebrate New Year's Eve with Ryan Seacrest and Jenny McCarthy on ABC's “New Year's Rockin' Eve," it's a pretty safe bet to say that you're probably going to consume alcohol—a considerable amount of alcohol.
How To: How Anonymous Texting Can One Day Help You Avoid Tow Trucks, Parking Tickets, & Vandalized Cars
Parking. Ugh. Parking is about as fun as running through a swarm of bees while being chased by a pack of wolves from The Grey.
How To: Find a Sweet Parking Spot at Peak Times (Then Locate Your Car Afterwards)
Living in Los Angeles has taught me one thing—parking is a luxury. If you are lucky enough to find street parking anywhere near your desired location, do not pass it up thinking you will get an even closer one. It does not exist. Looking for free parking? Get real. You can't even park at a busted meter in Los Angeles, despite state law saying otherwise. Now, finding a good parking spot is not just relevant for Los Angeles, but for other large cities and any other crowded areas, be it a shoppi...
Sponsored Content: How to Add Some Fun to Your Daily Commute
Sure, "normal" is cozy and safe, like a glass of warm milk before bed. It gets the job done, but there's no pizzazz, no flair. We wake up, slug back some okay coffee (not good, certainly not great, but just okay), and we're shunted off to a gray cubicle in a gray building. Sure, we can't all be stuntmen and rock stars, but there is a way to inject a little zip into your day.
How To: Perform the Right Hand Reverse for Advanced Driving Tests in England
Here is a manoeuvre that you won't see every day. It is intended for drivers in commercial vehicles who cannot see to the rear. By reversing with the flow of traffic it is possible to see approaching vehicles through the front windscreen and the right hand kerb by looking down over your shoulder. This manoeuvre sometimes occurs on the ADI, Part 2 Test of driving ability.