The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is responsible for issuing automotive safety recalls. Even though we are only in August, there have already been some concerning auto recalls in 2024. Here are the largest 2024 car recalls so far this year.

Tesla

Elon Musk had his share of disappointment with a recall that included more than two million units on January 30. Tesla’s recall notice was in effect for most of the units manufactured since 2012, including the Model S, Model 3, Model X, Model Y and Cybertruck. It turns out that there was a problem with the anti-lock and parking brake. In July, there were another 1.8 million vehicles recalled due to a defective hood latch. It shall be interesting to see if there are any more major recalls from Tesla this year.

Ford Motor

After receiving more than 150 consumer complaints, Ford issued a recall affecting nearly two million units of the 5th generation Explorer SUV. It appears that the clips supporting the trim over the roof support are loose and they can fly off while driving, which creates a safety concern.

Stellantis (Jeep, Dodge, RAM)

Let’s not forget that Stellantis has already recalled more than one million vehicles because of a software bug that affects the use of the rearview cameras. Software updates must be installed to fix the problem. This recall affects the 2021-2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee, 2021-2022 Dodge Durango and the 2022 RAM (1500, 2500 and 2500 trucks).

More 2024 Car Recalls

While these three recalls are among the worst so far this year, there are sure to be more. Stay posted to our recalls page to find out important news that you may need to know about. At the end of the year, we will likely run another post highlighting all of the major recalls that occurred.

Are you affected by these recalls? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

We’ve just had a glimpse of the refreshed Ford Maverick and it looks much sportier than the outgoing model. However, the changes also add a higher price. Is the 2025 Ford Maverick price worth the cost or is it better to go for a 2024 model?

2025 Ford Maverick Price

Remember back when the Ford Maverick first debuted in 2022, the sticker price was only $19,995? Things have changed a lot over just a few years. Now, the 2025 Maverick starts at $26,295. That’s a $2,375 increase over last year’s model. The largest price increase comes with the Tremor trim, now costing $39,795. Yet, there’s a model even more expensive for this year – known as the Lobo. This truck starts at $40,495 with a hybrid configuration.

Here’s the price list for all 2025 Ford Maverick trims:

• XL EcoBoost or Hybrid: $26,295
• XLT EcoBoost or Hybrid: $28,795
• Lariat EcoBoost or Hybrid: $36,735
• Tremor: $39,795
• Lobo $40,495

2025 Ford Maverick Changes

Now that the initial stick shock is over, it’s time to evaluate the changes to the 2025 Ford Maverick. The most notable change is that all-wheel drive is available with the hybrid powertrain – for the first time ever. More standard equipment is included, such as a 13.2-inch touchscreen with the SYNC4 operating system and a digital instrument gauge cluster. Finally, Ford redid the entire front end, with a fresh new look.

As far as trim levels, the Tremor becomes it’s own option, instead of being offered as an off-road package. Previously, it was available on the XLT or Lariat, but Ford built the new trim from the Lariat. There’s also the new Lobo trim is track-focused and the sportiest option of the bunch.

Is Ford Raising Prices Too High?

With the rising inflation and increasing prices of cars, one has to wonder when it will stop. Ford initially offered the Maverick as a budget-friendly truck, but it’s quickly becoming a little pricey. Enthusiasts won’t probably balk at the price and will continue driving the pickup, but we would like to hear your thoughts. Let us know in the comments below if this is a truck you would buy.

In the ever-evolving automotive industry, one trend has been making waves in recent years: the rise of electric vehicles (EVs). While electric cars have been gaining popularity, a new player has entered the arena, promising to revolutionize one of America’s most beloved vehicle categories—the pickup truck. With major automakers announcing plans to electrify their truck lineup, the automotive landscape is on the brink of a significant shift. The roads are ready for the arrival of the electric pickup trucks.

What’s the Hype About Electric Pickup Trucks

Traditionally known for their ruggedness, towing capacity, and off-road prowess, pickup trucks have long been a staple of American culture. However, concerns over environmental impact and rising fuel costs have prompted a reevaluation of the traditional combustion engine. Enter electric pickup trucks, poised to combine the utility of a truck with the sustainability of electric power.

Leading the charge is Tesla’s highly anticipated Cybertruck, unveiled with much fanfare and anticipation. Boasting futuristic design, impressive performance metrics, and a range of up to 500 miles on a single charge, the Cybertruck has captured the imagination of consumers and industry insiders alike. Its unconventional appearance may polarize opinions, but its potential to disrupt the market is undeniable.

Not to be outdone, traditional automakers are stepping up their game in the electric pickup arena. Ford’s F-150 Lightning promises the same toughness and versatility as its gasoline-powered counterpart, with the added benefits of zero emissions and lower operating costs. GM also enters the fray with the Hummer EV, a rugged off-roader with supercar-like acceleration and advanced off-road capabilities.

The shift towards electric pickup trucks represents more than just a technological advancement. It reflects a broader transformation in consumer preferences. With increasing emphasis on sustainability and environmental responsibility, electric vehicles are becoming increasingly attractive options for consumers.

Furthermore, the electrification of pickup trucks could have far-reaching implications beyond just reducing emissions. Electric powertrains offer superior torque and acceleration, potentially enhancing the performance and driving experience of these vehicles. Additionally, the lower operating costs of electric vehicles could make them more appealing to fleet operators and businesses.

However, challenges remain, including infrastructure limitations, range anxiety, and the high initial cost of electric vehicles. Overcoming these obstacles will be crucial for widespread adoption and success in the electric pickup truck market.

In Summary

The rise of electric pickup trucks represents a significant milestone in the ongoing evolution of the automotive industry. With major players like Tesla, Ford, and GM leading the charge, the future of pickup trucks is undeniably electric. As technology advances and consumer preferences continue to shift towards sustainability, electric vehicles are poised to become the new norm on American roads. The electrification of pickup trucks isn’t just a trend. It’s a transformative shift that promises to reshape the automotive landscape for years to come.

It’s not easy to find new cars with a manual transmission anymore. These vehicles are a dying breed, but some automakers are still hanging in there. Here’s the complete list of new vehicles that come with a stick shift in 2023. Let us know if we missed any.

2023 Cars With a Manual Transmission

Acura

Acura Integra

That’s right fans! The Integra is back. This compact hatchback comes with an available six-speed manual to go with the 200-horsepower turbo-four.

BMW/MINI

BMW M2

There’s a new M2 scheduled for release with a 453-horsepower twin-turbo inline-six and a manual transmission.

BMW M3/M4

Both the BMW M3 and M4 offer a manual gearbox. Both also include a 473-horsepower twin-turbo inline-six to offer plenty of fun.

MINI Lineup

There’s a manual option in the Cooper, Cooper S and Cooper Clubman. We are still waiting on the manual to be offered in the 302-horsepower John Cooper Works model.

Cadillac

Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing

If you have $60k to throw around, you may be interested in this 472-horsepower sports sedan with a six-speed manual transmission.

Chevy

Chevrolet Camaro

You may not be able to get the Corvette with a manual gearbox, but the Camaro still has one. There’s a six-speed manual available with more engine options, including the Zl1 with it’s 6.2L supercharged V8.

Dodge

Dodge Challenger

The American automaker wasn’t going to shrink away from the muscle car competition. It comes with an available manual gearbox on many variants, including the SRT Hellcat with its 6.2L V8 engine.

Ford

Ford Mustang

Joining the American muscle cars is the Ford Mustang. However, there’s no Shelby GT350 anymore and the Shelby GT500 can only be purchased with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. If you want something more tame, you can pair it with a six-speed manual.

Honda

Honda Civic

This Japanese automaker has left the manual option in the 2023 Civic, but only on select trims. With the sedan, you’ll only find it with the Civic Si paired to the 200-horsepower turbocharged engine.

Hyundai/Kia

Hyundai Elantra

The Elantra N Line no longer has a manual option, but the Elantra N does. It comes with a six-speed manual to go with the 276-horsepower 2.0L turbo-four.

Kia Forte

Grab a new Forte sedan in the GT form and you get a stick shift. This sedan is a lot of fun to drive with the 201-horsepower 1.6L turbo-four.

Mazda

Mazda3

You can’t get a stick shift with the sedan variant, but it’s still available in the hatchback. The six-speed manual comes standard with the Premium trim and FWD. It’s a great match to the 186-horszepower 2.5L four-cylinder.

Mazda MX-5 Miata

You can count on the MX-5 Miata to still be a RWD sports car with a stick shift. It can be found whether you choose a cloth roof or power-folding hardtop.

Nissan

Nissan Versa

The Versa sedan is still one of the best budget-friendly options and it comes with a five-speed manual. However, this stick shift is only available on the base S.

Nissan Z

The Z is brand-new for 2023. It replaces the old 370Z and comes with a 400-horsepower 3.0L twin-turbo V6 paired to a six-speed manual.

Porsche

Porsche 718 Boxster and Cayman

Put your money together and get the Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS or any variation of the 718 Cayman coupe or 718 Boxster converter  and you’ll get a manual transmission.

Porsche 911

The Porsche 911 may end being the last car to hold out. It’s still available with a stick shift.

Subaru

Subaru BRZ

This RWD sports car may have a flat-four engine, but it comes with an available six-speed manual gearbox.

Subaru Impreza

You can still find an Impreza with a stick shift. The five-speed manual is only available with the base trim though.

Subaru WRX

Choose the top trim level, the WRX GT, and you’ll miss out on the six-speed manual available with the rest of the lineup.

Toyota

Toyota GR Corolla

The standard Corolla doesn’t have a manual in 2023, but the GR does. This hatchback comes with a 300-horsepower turbo-three, AWD and a six-speed manual.

Toyota GR86

The GR86 was co-created with Subaru, so it closely matches the BRZ with its six-speed manual gearbox.

Toyota Supra

There was once a time the Supra didn’t offer a manual gearbox, but those days are over. Now you can choose a six-speed manual.

Volkswagen

Volkswagen Jetta

Choose a new Jetta in the S or Sport variant and you can choose the six-speed manual gearbox. There’s also the GLI available if you want something that’s more fun to drive.

Choosing a New Car With a Manual Transmission

While there may be many automakers that don’t offer a manual transmission at all, you still have plenty of options. In fact, some companies (like Toyota) offer several vehicles with a manual gearbox. Which car would you choose?

RAM no longer believes that the regular cab pickup truck is in style. The automaker has decided to discontinue the RAM Regular Cab Truck moving forward. The news was first discovered by Mopar Insiders, but later confirmed by the manufacturer.

What is the RAM Regular Cab Truck?

The regular cab configuration contains two doors. It also has a six-foot four-inch truck bed according to the latest configuration information. You can get this style with the RAM 1500 Classic truck, which was originally introduced in 2009. It has been meant to provide a budget-friendly option along the remainder of the RAM 1500 lineup.

Why the Changes?

RAM hasn’t offered an explanation for the updates. In fact, there was once a big desire for the short bed, two-door truck. Over the past few years, consumers have been looking for more four-door trucks, so this could be the sole reason for making this decision. We also know that most automakers are focusing on selling more expensive models to make up for the semiconductor chip shortages.

This isn’t the only change coming down the pipeline. In fact, Stellantis (parent company of RAM) announced recently that one factory will cut the third shift at the plant. This factory is the one that currently builds the Jeep Wagoneer and RAM 1500 Classic.

Getting a New RAM Truck

There are still options available to you if you want to purchase a new RAM. The short bed, two-door 1500 Classic can still be purchased for $32,130 if you choose the V6 motor or $34,930 with a V8. You can also choose a regular cab model with the larger eight-foot bed with the 1500 Classic.

With that said, there’s also the RAM 1500 Quad Cab and Crew Cab models to still choose from. Both of these are available in multitude of trim levels and plenty of options for complete customization.

President Biden used the Inflation Reduction Act to reduce the list of vehicles included in the federal electric car tax credit. This change only adds to the reasons why people don’t buy electric cars. However, there are some vehicles that are still eligible, so it’s important to know what you should buy. With the new rules, all EVs and plug-in hybrid vehicles built outside of North America no longer qualify.

Examples of Cars Being Excluded

With this one change, many cars have become ineligible. Here’s an example of a few that are no longer eligible because of where they are manufactured.

• Hyundai IONIQ 5
• Toyota RAV4 Prime
• Kia EV6

On top of these, new income caps and sales prices will go in effect starting January 1, 2023. There are also new restrictions as to where the batteries can be manufactured. Tesla and General Motors still have eligibility, except the credits have been exhausted through the last program. For this reason, new credits won’t return until 2023.

The only exemption to these rules is if you have already entered into a contract before this law passed. Your old claim still applies with the previous rules.

Models Qualifying for Electric Car Tax Credit

Based on the current laws, there are some vehicles that are still eligible. However, you must know where the vehicle was manufactured, as it could have come from a plant overseas, thereby making it ineligible.

2022 Hybrid Models

• Audi Q5 Plug-in Hybrid
• BMW 3-Series Plug-in Hybrid
• BMW X5 Plug-in Hybrid
• Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid
• Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid
• Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe
• Jeep Wrangler 4xe
• Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring
• Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring
• Volvo S60 Recharge

2022 Electric Models

• Ford F-150 Lightning
• Ford Mustang Mach-E
• Lucid Air
• Mercedes-Benz EQS (2023)
• Nissan Leaf (including 2023)
• All Rivian models
• Ford E-Transit

Additionally, VW begun producing the ID.4 in Tennessee at the Chattanooga plant. These deliveries should arrive by the end of the year, allowing for tax credits.

Do you plan to take advantage of the electric car tax credit? Let us know what you plan to buy.