Hot Driving & Safety How-Tos
How To: Keep your car seat cool with a reflective emergency blanket
If you've ever parked your car outside in direct sunlight and it's about 90 degrees out, you know what ends up happening 2 hours later when you get back into the car.
How To: Ride a motorcycle in a group
In this tutorial we learn how to ride a motorcycle in a group. You will have each person separated by enough length so you can each safely stop. There should be a trail of one in front of the other, not everyone next to each other. Follow the hand signals that each person gives so you call know where to go. You should have one leader and then other people following with one person in the back. If you are riding into the sun, make sure each person is wearing sunglasses because it will be brigh...
How To: Make a u-turn on a motorcycle
In this video, we learn how to make a u-turn on a motorcycle. You must be able to complete a u-turn without putting your foot down. Depending on the size of your motorcycle, you will need 20-24 feet to do this properly. The most common mistake is oversteering and putting your foot down. Keep the clutch in the friction zone, drag the rear bike the stabilize the bike, add throttle if needed, and shift your weight. Keep your head up and make sure you are looking all the way through the u-turn. D...
How To: Start out on a motorcycle
In this tutorial, we learn how to start out on a motorcycle. Before you ride a motorcycle, you will want to learn where all the controls are. After this, you need to make sure all the springs are in place and the clutch works well. Then, check the engine oil to make sure it's full, and then make sure the throttle is working correctly. The steering bar should also be checked and the ignition switch should be checked. Once you know that your bike is ready, then you can pull the kickstand up wit...
How To: Countersteer and turn on a motorcycle
In this video, we learn how to countersteer and turn on a motorcycle. First, you will push left and lean left while you are on the motorcycle. Push on the hand grip while you are leaning your body. Turn at a normal speed, not while you are going really fast, or you can fall off. You will turn the handlebars just like a steering wheel on a car going at a slow speed. This should be between 8 and 15 miles per hour, so you will have to countersteer. Practice this on a closed course and then you c...
How To: Make a quick stop on a motorcycle
In this tutorial, we learn how to make a quick stop on a motorcycle. You must reach a speed of 15 mph first. A quick stop means you stop right when you are in the middle of driving, without slowing down first. Close the throttle first, then pull in the clutch. From here, apply both brakes evenly and firmly without locking them up and keep the handlebars straight. Make sure you ride safe and you do this with a helmet on after you have learned the basics of riding a motorcycle. Once you learn t...
How To: Adjust the steering wheel in the 2010 Toyota Prius
In this tutorial, we learn how to adjust the steering wheel in the 2010 Prius. Every Prius has a tilt and telescopic steering wheel that should only be adjusted when the car is stopped. Reach under the steering wheel and push the lever down to release. Then, move the steering wheel in and out and up and down until you find the position that is comfortable for you. Pull the lever up to lock it into position. Make sure the steering wheel is completely locked into place before you start driving ...
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: Program the HomeLink setup in a 2010 Toyota Prius
In this tutorial, we learn how to program the HomeLink setup in a 2010 Prius. This can be programmed to operate any HomeLink compatible device. Up to three devices can be operated from the vehicle. To program a garage door opener, simply press both the remote and home link button until the indicator light flash rapidly. To program anything else, simply follow the instructions that are given to you when you purchase your car. This is a great feature that can save you time and add more simplici...
How To: Operate dynamic radar cruise control in the 2010 Toyota Prius
In this tutorial, we learn how to operate dynamic radar cruise control in the 2010 Prius. This supplements the conventional cruise control with a vehicle to vehicle cruise control. The radar system sees the car ahead and is less effected by bad weather conditions. The driver can select short, medium, or long driving distances. When cruising at a set speed that is faster than the car ahead, the vehicle will slow down to the speed of that car. A warning will be sounded to tell the driver to tak...
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: Adjust the front seat and heater in the 2010 Toyota Prius
In this tutorial, we learn how to adjust the front seat and heater in the 2010 Prius. First, you will need to adjust your seats by lifting the lever in the front of the seat. Move up and down until it's comfortable. On the side of the seat is a lever which will move the seat up and down. The other lever behind that will move the seat back up and down until it's in the right place. There is also a button on the side that will change the lumbar support for your back. There is also an option ava...
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: 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: Utilize the informational display in the 2010 Prius
In this tutorial, we learn how to utilize the informational display in the 2010 Prius. This is in the middle of the panel display and appears after the welcoming screen. It includes a clock at the top and can be changed when you press the correct button on the steering wheel. Pressing the display button will bring up different screens to give you information on how your vehicle is running and give you history of it. It will also provide access to settings of your car so you can change the clo...
How To: Use steering wheel controls in the 2010 Prius
In this video, we learn how to use steering wheel controls in the 2010 Prius. The Prius has steering wheel mounted controls that come with touch tracer display. When you press these, the display produces the duplicate on the panel to see what you are doing. This is located in the driver's line of sight. You will find radio, volume, and radio channel controls on the left hand side. You will also find voice activation and phone on the left hand side. The switches on the right hand side will hel...
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: Adjust the interior lights in a 2010 Prius
In this video, we learn how to adjust the interior lights in a 2010 Prius. To adjust the intensity of lights, rotate the thumb wheel that is left to the steering wheel. Rotating up increases the intensity of the lights. Rotating downwards dims the instrument panel lights. There is a central light switch located on the roof. There are three positions that turn the lights on, off, and auto. There are also right and left map lights which you can switch to turn on or off. The lighting in this car...
How To: Adjust the mirrors in a 2010 Toyota Prius
In this tutorial, we learn how to adjust the mirrors in a 2010 Prius. The interior rear view mirror will dim automatically if it sense a glare coming into it. You can turn this function on and off by pressing the buttons on the mirror. There are also outside mirrors that have controls to the left of the steering wheel. Press the buttons to adjust the area the lens is at. There is also a defroster that will activate when you turn on the front or rear defroster. This will loosen any ice from th...
How To: Access XM Satellite Radio in a 2010 Prius
In this tutorial, we learn how to access XM satellite radio in a 2010 Prius. To access this feature, press the "sat" button the dash or the "sat" button the steering wheel. You can also use the voice recognition button on the steering wheel by saying "satellite radio" out loud after pressing it. You can search for music by channel or use the type scan button while in audio mode to find the type of music you prefer. There are a variety of channels offered, look at your channel guide to find th...
How To: Change temperature settings in a 2010 Toyota Prius
In this video, we learn how to change the temperature settings in a 2010 Prius. All the climate controls are on the center console. The steering wheel can also help you change the temperature control. Press the green switch first then you will be able to set the temperature that you want the car to be. The system will then maintain that temperature. If you want to use the fan, select the fan and then select the speed you want it to be at. There is also a front and rear defroster you can press...
How To: Choose which driving mode to use in the 2010 Prius
In this tutorial, we learn how to choose which driving mode to use in the 2010 Prius. The Prius offers four drive modes: normal, eco, power, and ev mode. To activate the mode, press the appropriate button the center console and the light will appear in the center console. Now, you can press it again to deactivate it if you no longer want it on. The Prius has a driving range of 1/2 mile and can operate at 25 mph using light throttle. If the battery needs charging or the speed exceeds 25 mph th...
How To: Acquire legal ownership of an abandoned car
Been keeping an eye on the car that's been sitting on the side of the freeway for the last month? This video shows you how to legally acquire the title for an abandoned vehicle. You'll need the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) and license plate number to locate the owner. Then work out the transfer title, and the car's yours!
How To: Ace your driving test
Driving is crucial to survival, but it's also a privilege, not a right. Contained in this video are the crucial steps that you'll need to take to ace that driving test with flying colors and get that license. Practice makes perfect!
How To: Use the XM NavTraffic feature in a 2010 Prius
In this video, we learn how to use the XM NavTraffic feature in a 2010 Toyota Prius. First, turn the system on and then use the plus button toe navigate to where you are on the map. Next, you will be able to see what is coming up in the next few miles and what road blocks or delays you can expect. You can also enter in the destination that you are headed to, and the system will give you directions on which way will get you there the fastest. You can mark different areas that you have been at ...
How To: Start the 2010 Prius
In this tutorial, we learn how to start the 2010 Toyota Prius. First, get in the car and make sure you are buckled up and have your keys with you. After this tap on the brakes and then simply turn the car on by pressing the power button. After you do this, the car will start to power up and the lights on it will load with all the car health information. To turn the car off, you will just simply stop the car and press the power button once more. This is a very easy car to use and it's very use...
How To: Ride a motorcycle safely with a passenger
In this tutorial, we learn how to ride a motorcycle safely with a passenger. First give your passenger gear for themselves, then have them sit behind you on the bike. Make sure they hold onto you while you are driving, and you take turns more slowly at first. Turn the sides gently and have them lean into the turns with you. Before each of you get on the bike, tell your passenger how to behave while they are riding on it. This will better equip your passenger to know what to expect and how to ...
How To: Drift using the handbrake
In this tutorial, we learn how to drift using the handbrake. First start off by driving and then pull the emergency brake and use the steering wheel to guide your car and drift. There is a sequence to using the gas and brake petal while you are doing this, to keep an even balance while you are drifting and you won't lose control of your vehicle. Start to do this when you get up to around 80 miles an hour. Practice doing this with a professional on a closed course. This is extremely dangerous ...
How To: Start and ride a motorcycle with the basics
Learn the basic concepts to starting and riding a motorcycle! The motorcycle in this video is a Kawasaki Ninja model.
How To: Countersteer on a 2008 Ninja 250 motorcycle
In this tutorial, we learn how to counter steer on a 2008 Ninja 250 motorcycle. Vehicles will counter steer after you get to 12 mph and is where the car steers with the direction you push the bars in. You will push in the handlebars to go different ways, to go left press the left handle bar and to go right you push the right handle bar. Make sure you don't do this while you're on the right hand side or you will run into the sidewalk. If you push both at the same time your bike will shake. Thi...
How To: Perform clutchless shifting on a motorcycle
In this tutorial, we learn how to perform clutch-less shifting on a motorcycle. You will put a lot of pressure on your toe going up, then close the valves. It's been said that this is bad for your bike, but that depends on the person who is driving it. It takes a lot of practice to figure out how to do this, so take your time when doing this. Also, don't practice this in a busy street because you run the risk of losing concentration and hitting other vehicles. Don't do this often, so you don'...
How To: Change your car's wiper blades properly
They may not be as important as tires or oil, but wiper blades can be important during certain times of the year. Going without wiper blades during the winter, when rain or snow is common, can be a bad idea. These little guys help clear the view when driving on the road and make sure that you can see what's ahead of you.
How To: Avoid external distractions when driving
When you own a car, you're adding a big responsibility on your hands. Not only do you have to maintain it, but you have to make sure that when driving it, you do so correctly for the sake of you and others.
How To: Shift gears on a 2008 Ninja 250 motorcycle
In this tutorial, we learn how to shift gears on a 2008 Ninja 250 motorcycle. First, pull in the clutch, take it down to first, then give it gas and release the clutch to get the bike started. To shift gears, pull in the clutch, pick up, then ease out the clutch, then give the bike gas. Keep doing this to change in between the different gears on the bike. Practice doing this in an empty parking lot and don't forget to keep on the gas while you are doing this. You may let go of the clutch to q...
How To: Drift your car with ease
In this video tutorial, viewers learn how to drift a car. Viewers will learn 3 different ways of drifting. The first ways is the handbrake turn. Begin by building up speed in the first gear, swing the wheel over sharply, pull the handbrake, dip the clutch and release the handbrake. The second way is the 90 degree turn. Begin by driving in the second gear, nip the handbrake as you approach the turn, opposite lock and accelerate out of the slide. The third way is the handbrake turn into the rev...
How To: Use the paddle shifter in the 2010 Ford Flex
Not sure what a paddle shifter is? Well, if you own the 2010 Ford Flex, you are at least aware of its existence. You can switch your vehicle from automatic transmission to manual transmission in the 2010 Flex, and there's these things on the steering wheel called paddle shifters, which allow you to shift between gears without ever taking your hands off the wheel. Learn how to use them.
How To: Start your 2010 Lincoln MKT with the ignition button
No more do you need to fumble with keys. The 2010 Lincoln MKT has a button ignition instead of the standard key ignition. And it might be confusing at first, but this video will show you how to start and turn off your vehicle by using the push button (available on select models). No more digging in your purse or pockets… simply have the key fab within a certain distance and press the ON button. It's that easy!
How To: Use the front brake on a motorcycle
In this tutorial, we learn how to use the front break on a motorcycle. Using the front break only will give you 70% stopping power while you are on your bike and in motion. If you only use the rear break, you will have 30% stopping power while in motion and riding your bike. This is the worst option of all, because it will take you longer to stop and you have greater risk of hitting someone. Make sure to stop the proper way by using both the front and rear break to stop the bike while you are...
How To: Drift in your car easily
In this Autos, Motorcycles & Planes video tutorial you will learn how to drift in your car easily. In this video Bryan Norris tells you about basic drift techniques and counter steering. While at high speed when you turn a corner, the car will start to spin. What you do now is to counter steer. That is you turn the steering wheel in the opposite direction. As you come down the hill, step on the brakes. What this does is it transfers the weight of the vehicle from the rear of the car to the fr...
How To: Start riding a motorcycle
In this video, Crystal Charles tells us how to ride a motorcycle. First, you will need to make sure you have protective equipment: gloves, helmet, and jacket. You can use a long sleeved shirt if you don't have a riding jacket. You will want to inspect your gear to make sure it's all put together and there are no cracks in your helmet. Know how the features and controls work on our motorcycle and make sure you know where they are. You also have to learn how to use the motorcycle and know exact...