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Safe! - Acadia, Enclave, Outlook, Traverse top safety picks
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has awarded the Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse, GMC Acadia, and Saturn Outlook its Top Safety Pick designation for exemplary performance in frontal offset, side, and rear crash tests. To be eligible for this distinction, a vehicle also has to have standard stability control. These corporate siblings are highly rated by Consumer Reports. We liked their combination of ride, handling, smooth powertrain, and space efficiency. With these new crash-test results, the Acadia and Outlook now earn our top-level recommendation, which means they performed well in CR's tests and have average or better reliability. The Enclave is not recommended because we do not have adequate reliability data yet. The Traverse goes on sale in the fall. The Acadia and its siblings received top scores in the Institute’s frontal-offset and side crash tests, and also received top marks for whiplash protection based on the design of their head restraints. The Institute provides a detailed breakdown, rating injury measures for head/neck, torso, leg/pelvis, overall head protection, and structure/safety cage. In all instances for front and side, these SUVs earn the Institute’s highest rating of good. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also awarded the vehicles five stars in both their front- and side-crash tests. The NHTSA evaluations are less severe than those performed by the Insurance Institute, but they are considered a valuable measure of safety belt and air bag performance. The vehicles scored four stars in rollover resistance in NHTSA’s test of rollover propensity, a good rating for an SUV. Learn more about how the Institute and NHTSA perform their evaluations in “Crash Test 101.” And see the tests in action by choosing from the more than 250 crash test videos produced with IIHS. —Eric Evarts
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has awarded the Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse, GMC Acadia, and Saturn Outlook its Top Safety Pick designation for exemplary performance in frontal offset, side, and rear crash tests. To be eligible for this distinction, a vehicle also has to have standard stability control. These corporate siblings are highly rated by Consumer Reports. We liked their combination of ride, handling, smooth powertrain, and space efficiency. With these new crash-test results, the Acadia and Outlook now earn our top-level recommendation, which means they performed well in CR's tests and have average or better reliability. The Enclave is not recommended because we do not have adequate reliability data yet. The Traverse goes on sale in the fall. The Acadia and its siblings received top scores in the Institute’s frontal-offset and side crash tests, and also received top marks for whiplash protection based on the design of their head restraints. The Institute provides a detailed breakdown, rating injury measures for head/neck, torso, leg/pelvis, overall head protection, and structure/safety cage. In all instances for front and side, these SUVs earn the Institute’s highest rating of good. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also awarded the vehicles five stars in both their front- and side-crash tests. The NHTSA evaluations are less severe than those performed by the Insurance Institute, but they are considered a valuable measure of safety belt and air bag performance. The vehicles scored four stars in rollover resistance in NHTSA’s test of rollover propensity, a good rating for an SUV. Learn more about how the Institute and NHTSA perform their evaluations in “Crash Test 101.” And see the tests in action by choosing from the more than 250 crash test videos produced with IIHS. —Eric Evarts
Too little tummy time?
For many parents, baby chairs, swings and other strap-in seats are undeniably convenient. But they could be costing our babies developmentally important "tummy time," according to the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). The APTA says that many babies are spending...
For many parents, baby chairs, swings and other strap-in seats are undeniably convenient. But they could be costing our babies developmentally important "tummy time," according to the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). The APTA says that many babies are spending...
Do infant seats leave too little "tummy time" for tots?
For the first six months of my daughter's life, there were three items I couldn't do without: a nursing pillow, a front carrier pack, and the all-important bouncy chair. Although I carried Maddy much of the time, I relied on...
For the first six months of my daughter's life, there were three items I couldn't do without: a nursing pillow, a front carrier pack, and the all-important bouncy chair. Although I carried Maddy much of the time, I relied on...
Computer virus blasts into space
A few days ago, news broke that a computer worm had hitched a ride on the International Space Station by stowing away on the astronauts’ laptops, which were reportedly unprotected by antivirus software. The worm, Gammima.AG, which replicates itself and steals passwords to online games, was discovered about a year ago and isn’t considered high-risk. Still, if the astronaut has followed the advice in our 7 Online Blunders report, namely to make sure you’ve got activated and updated security software on your computer, Gammima.AG would never had made it out of earth’s biosphere. So no matter where you take your laptop (or desktop), make sure it has security software properly installed and running. —Jeff Fox
A few days ago, news broke that a computer worm had hitched a ride on the International Space Station by stowing away on the astronauts’ laptops, which were reportedly unprotected by antivirus software. The worm, Gammima.AG, which replicates itself and steals passwords to online games, was discovered about a year ago and isn’t considered high-risk. Still, if the astronaut has followed the advice in our 7 Online Blunders report, namely to make sure you’ve got activated and updated security software on your computer, Gammima.AG would never had made it out of earth’s biosphere. So no matter where you take your laptop (or desktop), make sure it has security software properly installed and running. —Jeff Fox
Driving a great, end-of-summer new car deal
Reviewing the latest car incentives, Consumer Reports analysis shows how to drive a great, end-of-summer new car deal.
Reviewing the latest car incentives, Consumer Reports analysis shows how to drive a great, end-of-summer new car deal.
Hitachi DB10DL cordless screwdriver: First Look
Review of the Hitachi DB10DL cordless screwdriver impact driver by the experts at Consumer Reports.
Review of the Hitachi DB10DL cordless screwdriver impact driver by the experts at Consumer Reports.
Mold can be a problem for some front-loading washers
Front-loading washing machines are more efficient than traditional top-loading washers. Sure, you’ll pay a $400 to $500 premium for the average top-loader, but your electricity and water savings should offset the added expense over the lifetime of the appliance. Plus, front-loaders are among the highest-rated washers in our tests. But front-loaders don’t have a spotless reputation. We’ve received myriad comments from readers about water left behind at the end of the wash cycle, bleach spotting, excessive vibrations, unhelpful service reps, and other complaints common to all washers. But one issue seems unique to front-loaders: mold buildup in the rubber gasket of the door and the resulting odor on clothes. The mold problem is so widespread that class-action suits are targeting the LG, Whirlpool, and Sears, whose Kenmore front-loaders are made by Whirlpool. Maytag Neptune and Whirlpool Calypso front-loading washers have been part of similar lawsuits; settlements were reached for both. One Consumer Reports reader had a Whirlpool Duet for four months when it and her family’s clothes began to smell of mold. She contacted the manufacturer, which she says told her to clean the machine twice a week with bleach, wipe the door down after each wash, and leave the door open to dry it out. “I work full time and have five children—four who do their own laundry,” says Merryl Nall of Collierville, Tennessee, says. “Needless to say, that would not work.” Whirlpool took back the washer, and Nall has switched to a top-loader. Mold, according to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, can cause symptoms that include nasal stuffiness, eye irritation, wheezing, or skin irritation, fever, and shortness of breath. For people with chronic lung illnesses, mold infections can develop in their lungs. And exposure to mold can also bring on asthma attacks. Suggested remedies to the mold problem abound. Whirlpool sells Affresh tablets as a way to clean washer residue and mold. Sears warns against using non-HE detergents, cleaners that could create conditions for mold growth. And LG recommends that once or twice a month you run a special hot cycle to which you add bleach to clean the washer. Our advice: • When washing, use warm or hot water unless a load requires cold. • Wipe the door gasket and glass dry once you’re done washing. • Clean the detergent dispenser and any attachments once or twice a month. • Run a dehumidifier if your laundry room is damp. If you see mold buildup in a front-loading washer, call the manufacturer for service and save all paperwork related to the purchase and service of your machine. In the Maytag Neptune and Whirlpool Calypso settlements, plaintiffs eligible for restitution needed to document multiple authorized repair visits made during the warranty period and soon after the warranty expired. In response to the many reader letters we've received, we're asking owners of front-loaders whether repairs they’ve had done to their washers relate to mold alone. We’ll report on the findings from the Annual Questionnaire, conducted by the Consumer Reports National Research Center, in future stories.—Ed Perratore
Front-loading washing machines are more efficient than traditional top-loading washers. Sure, you’ll pay a $400 to $500 premium for the average top-loader, but your electricity and water savings should offset the added expense over the lifetime of the appliance. Plus, front-loaders are among the highest-rated washers in our tests. But front-loaders don’t have a spotless reputation. We’ve received myriad comments from readers about water left behind at the end of the wash cycle, bleach spotting, excessive vibrations, unhelpful service reps, and other complaints common to all washers. But one issue seems unique to front-loaders: mold buildup in the rubber gasket of the door and the resulting odor on clothes. The mold problem is so widespread that class-action suits are targeting the LG, Whirlpool, and Sears, whose Kenmore front-loaders are made by Whirlpool. Maytag Neptune and Whirlpool Calypso front-loading washers have been part of similar lawsuits; settlements were reached for both. One Consumer Reports reader had a Whirlpool Duet for four months when it and her family’s clothes began to smell of mold. She contacted the manufacturer, which she says told her to clean the machine twice a week with bleach, wipe the door down after each wash, and leave the door open to dry it out. “I work full time and have five children—four who do their own laundry,” says Merryl Nall of Collierville, Tennessee, says. “Needless to say, that would not work.” Whirlpool took back the washer, and Nall has switched to a top-loader. Mold, according to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, can cause symptoms that include nasal stuffiness, eye irritation, wheezing, or skin irritation, fever, and shortness of breath. For people with chronic lung illnesses, mold infections can develop in their lungs. And exposure to mold can also bring on asthma attacks. Suggested remedies to the mold problem abound. Whirlpool sells Affresh tablets as a way to clean washer residue and mold. Sears warns against using non-HE detergents, cleaners that could create conditions for mold growth. And LG recommends that once or twice a month you run a special hot cycle to which you add bleach to clean the washer. Our advice: • When washing, use warm or hot water unless a load requires cold. • Wipe the door gasket and glass dry once you’re done washing. • Clean the detergent dispenser and any attachments once or twice a month. • Run a dehumidifier if your laundry room is damp. If you see mold buildup in a front-loading washer, call the manufacturer for service and save all paperwork related to the purchase and service of your machine. In the Maytag Neptune and Whirlpool Calypso settlements, plaintiffs eligible for restitution needed to document multiple authorized repair visits made during the warranty period and soon after the warranty expired. In response to the many reader letters we've received, we're asking owners of front-loaders whether repairs they’ve had done to their washers relate to mold alone. We’ll report on the findings from the Annual Questionnaire, conducted by the Consumer Reports National Research Center, in future stories.—Ed Perratore
Garmin lowers GPS prices, discontinues some models
In the fast-moving portable GPS navigation market, the one constant is change. The latest move comes from Garmin, who has trimmed its car navigation line by retiring several, well-rated models including the Nuvi 350, 360, 370, 650, 660, and 670. The Nuvi 660 is a CR Best Buy at $350. A premium, full-featured device, the Nuvi 660 combines performance and portability with most available features, and it is a good choice for power users who can truly take advantage of its rich feature set. Despite their early retirement, you’ll likely still find these models for sale—at least for a while—in stores and online, possibly even at discounted prices . And speaking of discounts, Garmin has lowered the price of two other Nuvis: the 750 ($399 from $500) and the Nuvi 780 ($599 from $700). Be sure and check out our GPS Ratings (available to online subscribers), which are bigger and better than ever. We recently tested nine new GPS devices (including the Garmin Nuvi 205, Nuvi 205W, Nuvi 255, Nuvi 255W, Nuvi 880). We also updated how our Ratings are scored and displayed to better represent the factors that matter most to users, informed by a recent survey of over 2,000 GPS users, feedback on our Cars blog, forums, and user reviews. (Turns out, we’ll be updating our pricing soon to reflect this latest news.) Garmin has also just announced their roll-out of seven new Nuvi GPS models. We’ll be posting more on this soon. —Desiree Calamari
In the fast-moving portable GPS navigation market, the one constant is change. The latest move comes from Garmin, who has trimmed its car navigation line by retiring several, well-rated models including the Nuvi 350, 360, 370, 650, 660, and 670. The Nuvi 660 is a CR Best Buy at $350. A premium, full-featured device, the Nuvi 660 combines performance and portability with most available features, and it is a good choice for power users who can truly take advantage of its rich feature set. Despite their early retirement, you’ll likely still find these models for sale—at least for a while—in stores and online, possibly even at discounted prices . And speaking of discounts, Garmin has lowered the price of two other Nuvis: the 750 ($399 from $500) and the Nuvi 780 ($599 from $700). Be sure and check out our GPS Ratings (available to online subscribers), which are bigger and better than ever. We recently tested nine new GPS devices (including the Garmin Nuvi 205, Nuvi 205W, Nuvi 255, Nuvi 255W, Nuvi 880). We also updated how our Ratings are scored and displayed to better represent the factors that matter most to users, informed by a recent survey of over 2,000 GPS users, feedback on our Cars blog, forums, and user reviews. (Turns out, we’ll be updating our pricing soon to reflect this latest news.) Garmin has also just announced their roll-out of seven new Nuvi GPS models. We’ll be posting more on this soon. —Desiree Calamari
Cost of an oil change, value of car maintenance
The value of proper car maintenance is priceless, but the costs may be rising. I recently went to my local service station to get an oil change and when I went to pay the bill, I was surprised by the price. Just a few weeks prior, I had brought in my other four-cylinder car and it was $7 cheaper. The attendant explained that the price difference was due to the high cost of motor oil. From posting the weekly gas prices, I am intimately familiar with the price fluctuations and have been feeling the pain at the pump like all motorists. It was only a matter of time before it was reflected in an oil change, though it surprised me that it occurred over such a short time period. A colleague who also just had an oil change performed reported prices at his shop hadn’t increased. Perhaps I picked the wrong shop, or it may be a sign of things to come. (Share your recent experiences in the comments below.) Given the dramatic rise in crude prices, it makes sense that petroleum-based products would see their prices increase, though many service centers may struggle to minimize the consumer impact due to competition and drive to upsell other services. At any cost, oil changes are a critical part of maintaining your vehicle. For normal driving, many automakers recommend changing the engine oil and filter every 7,500 miles or six months, whichever comes first. This is sufficient for most passenger vehicles. For "severe" driving—with frequent, cold starts, short trips, dusty conditions, or trailer towing—the change interval should be shortened to every 3,000 miles or three months. (Check your owner’s manual for the specific intervals and oil weight recommended for your vehicle and use.) Special engines such as diesels and turbocharged engines may need more-frequent oil changes. Another important maintenance check is tire pressure. Under-inflated tires compromise handling and braking, wear faster, and reduce fuel economy. Plus they run much hotter, which can lead to tire failure. In our tests of a Toyota Camry, we experienced a 1.3 mpg loss in highway fuel economy when the tires were under-inflated by 10 psi. To find your vehicle’s correct tire pressure, look for the placard on the inside of the driver’s side door. The inflation pressure listed on the sidewall of the tire is the maximum inflation pressure but is not the recommended inflation for the vehicle. Stick with the recommendation for the vehicle—it is designed to provide the best interaction with suspension components of a car for the best balance of ride and handling. By filling tires to the maximum listed on the sidewall, it could adversely influence handling, as it would tend to pull the edges of the tire off the pavement. In other words, you would reduce the amount of rubber on the road. As you round the tire by adding additional air, you may also see an adverse consequence on wear, since it will tend to wear the center of the...
The value of proper car maintenance is priceless, but the costs may be rising. I recently went to my local service station to get an oil change and when I went to pay the bill, I was surprised by the price. Just a few weeks prior, I had brought in my other four-cylinder car and it was $7 cheaper. The attendant explained that the price difference was due to the high cost of motor oil. From posting the weekly gas prices, I am intimately familiar with the price fluctuations and have been feeling the pain at the pump like all motorists. It was only a matter of time before it was reflected in an oil change, though it surprised me that it occurred over such a short time period. A colleague who also just had an oil change performed reported prices at his shop hadn’t increased. Perhaps I picked the wrong shop, or it may be a sign of things to come. (Share your recent experiences in the comments below.) Given the dramatic rise in crude prices, it makes sense that petroleum-based products would see their prices increase, though many service centers may struggle to minimize the consumer impact due to competition and drive to upsell other services. At any cost, oil changes are a critical part of maintaining your vehicle. For normal driving, many automakers recommend changing the engine oil and filter every 7,500 miles or six months, whichever comes first. This is sufficient for most passenger vehicles. For "severe" driving—with frequent, cold starts, short trips, dusty conditions, or trailer towing—the change interval should be shortened to every 3,000 miles or three months. (Check your owner’s manual for the specific intervals and oil weight recommended for your vehicle and use.) Special engines such as diesels and turbocharged engines may need more-frequent oil changes. Another important maintenance check is tire pressure. Under-inflated tires compromise handling and braking, wear faster, and reduce fuel economy. Plus they run much hotter, which can lead to tire failure. In our tests of a Toyota Camry, we experienced a 1.3 mpg loss in highway fuel economy when the tires were under-inflated by 10 psi. To find your vehicle’s correct tire pressure, look for the placard on the inside of the driver’s side door. The inflation pressure listed on the sidewall of the tire is the maximum inflation pressure but is not the recommended inflation for the vehicle. Stick with the recommendation for the vehicle—it is designed to provide the best interaction with suspension components of a car for the best balance of ride and handling. By filling tires to the maximum listed on the sidewall, it could adversely influence handling, as it would tend to pull the edges of the tire off the pavement. In other words, you would reduce the amount of rubber on the road. As you round the tire by adding additional air, you may also see an adverse consequence on wear, since it will tend to wear the center of the...
Sears recalls 145,000 Kenmore coffeemakers
Sears has recalled 145,000 Kenmore and Kenmore Elite coffeemakers because the wiring in the small appliances can overheat, posing burn and fire hazards. The retailer has received 20 reports of coffeemakers overheating, including 12 fires that caused damage to countertops, cabinets and caused melted plastic to drip on the floor. No injuries have been reported. The recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission involves 12-cup Kenmore coffee makers sold in black, white and red with the following model numbers: 100.80006 (black), 100.81006 (white), and 100.82006 (red). The recall also involves 12-cup Kenmore Elite coffee makers with thermal carafes (model number 100.90007) and 14-cup Kenmore Elite coffeemakers (model number 100.90006). The model number can be found on the bottom of the unit. There is a Kenmore or Kenmore Elite logo on the front of the base. The coffeemakers were sold at Sears, Sears Hardware, the great indoors, and Kmart stores nationwide, as well as Sears.com and Kmart.com, from August 2007 through April 2008 for between $30 and $100. Consumers should immediately stop using the coffeemakers and take them to their nearest Sears or Kmart store for a free replacement coffeemaker. For additional information, contact Sears at (800) 978-7615 between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. CT Monday through Saturday, or visit the following Web sites: www.sears.com, www.kmart.com, or www.thegreatindoors.com. We've written about countertop appliances posing fire hazards before. In March, the CPSC recalled more than 500,000 toasters, deep fat fryers and and indoor grills that accounted for at least three burn injuries. To check and see if an appliance you own has been recalled, visit the CPSC's Web site.
Sears has recalled 145,000 Kenmore and Kenmore Elite coffeemakers because the wiring in the small appliances can overheat, posing burn and fire hazards. The retailer has received 20 reports of coffeemakers overheating, including 12 fires that caused damage to countertops, cabinets and caused melted plastic to drip on the floor. No injuries have been reported. The recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission involves 12-cup Kenmore coffee makers sold in black, white and red with the following model numbers: 100.80006 (black), 100.81006 (white), and 100.82006 (red). The recall also involves 12-cup Kenmore Elite coffee makers with thermal carafes (model number 100.90007) and 14-cup Kenmore Elite coffeemakers (model number 100.90006). The model number can be found on the bottom of the unit. There is a Kenmore or Kenmore Elite logo on the front of the base. The coffeemakers were sold at Sears, Sears Hardware, the great indoors, and Kmart stores nationwide, as well as Sears.com and Kmart.com, from August 2007 through April 2008 for between $30 and $100. Consumers should immediately stop using the coffeemakers and take them to their nearest Sears or Kmart store for a free replacement coffeemaker. For additional information, contact Sears at (800) 978-7615 between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. CT Monday through Saturday, or visit the following Web sites: www.sears.com, www.kmart.com, or www.thegreatindoors.com. We've written about countertop appliances posing fire hazards before. In March, the CPSC recalled more than 500,000 toasters, deep fat fryers and and indoor grills that accounted for at least three burn injuries. To check and see if an appliance you own has been recalled, visit the CPSC's Web site.
Of wasps and gutter guards
As evidenced by the comments to this September 2007 Q&A on fall cleanup, we receive lots of requests from readers to review gutter-guard systems. You'll be happy to know that we've added gutter guards to our list of products to test. I've lusted after gutter guards, too, no time more strongly than when I recently hauled out my ladder to clean some debris from my gutters and the area under my elevated deck. I had a willing helper in my 4-year-old daughter, Thea, who loves to work with me on household chores. But as soon as I propped the ladder onto my deck and rested it against the gutter, Thea let out a sharp cry; she'd been stung by a wasp. I carefully removed the stinger ASAP (some good advice I remembered from our summer-safety quiz) and dashed into the kitchen to mix a paste of baking soda and distilled vinegar to apply to the sting. As I was searching for the wasp's lair, three of his cohorts dive-bombed me from above. I swatted away one, but two stung me on the chest. Fortunately, some of the baking soda-vinegar mixture was left over. Having had enough of these stinging pests, I ushered Thea inside and donned my sailing anorak, drew the hood and the face mask tight, slipped on some work gloves, and got back to cleaning the gutters—very carefully. You see, several years ago while cleaning a friend's gutters, I put my hand directly into a wasp nest and got stung on four fingers; it felt as if a lit cigarette was being applied to each one. So like you, I'm awaiting our tests of gutter guards. I know I'm not the only weekend warrior to suffer injuries—read more in this blog entry—but as they say, once bitten, er, stung, twice shy.—Gian Trotta Essential information: It's not too late to check out our Guide to Summer Health & Safety, including a review of the best insect repellents.
As evidenced by the comments to this September 2007 Q&A on fall cleanup, we receive lots of requests from readers to review gutter-guard systems. You'll be happy to know that we've added gutter guards to our list of products to test. I've lusted after gutter guards, too, no time more strongly than when I recently hauled out my ladder to clean some debris from my gutters and the area under my elevated deck. I had a willing helper in my 4-year-old daughter, Thea, who loves to work with me on household chores. But as soon as I propped the ladder onto my deck and rested it against the gutter, Thea let out a sharp cry; she'd been stung by a wasp. I carefully removed the stinger ASAP (some good advice I remembered from our summer-safety quiz) and dashed into the kitchen to mix a paste of baking soda and distilled vinegar to apply to the sting. As I was searching for the wasp's lair, three of his cohorts dive-bombed me from above. I swatted away one, but two stung me on the chest. Fortunately, some of the baking soda-vinegar mixture was left over. Having had enough of these stinging pests, I ushered Thea inside and donned my sailing anorak, drew the hood and the face mask tight, slipped on some work gloves, and got back to cleaning the gutters—very carefully. You see, several years ago while cleaning a friend's gutters, I put my hand directly into a wasp nest and got stung on four fingers; it felt as if a lit cigarette was being applied to each one. So like you, I'm awaiting our tests of gutter guards. I know I'm not the only weekend warrior to suffer injuries—read more in this blog entry—but as they say, once bitten, er, stung, twice shy.—Gian Trotta Essential information: It's not too late to check out our Guide to Summer Health & Safety, including a review of the best insect repellents.
Hospitals will have to pay for their mistakes
In 2004, the very hospitals where Dorothy Etheridge picked up infections and a bedsore were reimbursed by Medicare for the extra care she needed to recover from them. Etheridge, 73, a retired mental-health-care worker from New Hampshire, had a diagnosis...
In 2004, the very hospitals where Dorothy Etheridge picked up infections and a bedsore were reimbursed by Medicare for the extra care she needed to recover from them. Etheridge, 73, a retired mental-health-care worker from New Hampshire, had a diagnosis...
Ratings of DTV converter boxes: New models added
We've updated our exclusive Ratings of DTV converter boxes, which now cover 24 of the 50 or so models now available. New arrivals include a box with the best picture quality we've seen so far, another that has the first VCR timer we've encountered, and several boxes with analog pass-through. (Read the latest update to our DTV converter box guide for more information, including free access to the DTV converter box Ratings.) Prices for tested models range from about $50 to $90. (Prices are what we paid. Some readers have reported that they've found different, sometimes higher, prices.) You can use a $40 government coupon to defray the cost. Call 888-DTV-2009 or go to www.DTV2009.gov to request one or two coupons; you'll also find a list of online retailers there. Visit our guide to the digital TV transition, free to all visitors, for more complete information on the digital TV switchover and DTV converter boxes. The Channel Master CM-7000 was tops for picture quality. It's among the first boxes to have an S-video output, which can deliver better picture quality than a composite-video or RF out. It's pricey, though, at $80. The Apex DT250 also has an S-video out, though its picture quality didn't quite match the Channel Master's. Older TVs don't have an S-video output, so you'd have to use either the composite-video or RF output. With a run-of-the-mill TV set, it might be hard to appreciate the incremental improvement in picture quality offered by the top performers. Converter boxes that are a step down in picture quality provide better video than most analog sets and might be perfectly satisfactory. The Dish Network DTVPal, $60, has both a VCR timer and analog pass-through, as does its brandmate, the TR-40 CRA, which is available in limited quantities for $40. (It arrived too late to be included in this latest update to our DTV converter box guide.) The timer will change the channel on the box so your VCR can automatically record from different channels. Analog pass-through enables a box to feed your TV analog signals as well as digital signals converted to analog. Other tested models with this feature are the Philco TB100HH9, Magnavox TB100MG9 (seen above), and Digital Stream DTX9950. (See our "How to choose: DTV converter boxes" for more information that will help you decide which DTV box features are right for your needs.) As in our first round of tests, all tested models converted broadcast digital signals from our rooftop antenna into analog signals that an older TV can accept, with decent picture and sound quality. They also performed comparably in their ability to pull in digital stations. The number of digital channels that will be available to you depends on how many stations broadcast digitally in your area, the distance from your home, your antenna, and whether trees or other obstructions block the signals.
We've updated our exclusive Ratings of DTV converter boxes, which now cover 24 of the 50 or so models now available. New arrivals include a box with the best picture quality we've seen so far, another that has the first VCR timer we've encountered, and several boxes with analog pass-through. (Read the latest update to our DTV converter box guide for more information, including free access to the DTV converter box Ratings.) Prices for tested models range from about $50 to $90. (Prices are what we paid. Some readers have reported that they've found different, sometimes higher, prices.) You can use a $40 government coupon to defray the cost. Call 888-DTV-2009 or go to www.DTV2009.gov to request one or two coupons; you'll also find a list of online retailers there. Visit our guide to the digital TV transition, free to all visitors, for more complete information on the digital TV switchover and DTV converter boxes. The Channel Master CM-7000 was tops for picture quality. It's among the first boxes to have an S-video output, which can deliver better picture quality than a composite-video or RF out. It's pricey, though, at $80. The Apex DT250 also has an S-video out, though its picture quality didn't quite match the Channel Master's. Older TVs don't have an S-video output, so you'd have to use either the composite-video or RF output. With a run-of-the-mill TV set, it might be hard to appreciate the incremental improvement in picture quality offered by the top performers. Converter boxes that are a step down in picture quality provide better video than most analog sets and might be perfectly satisfactory. The Dish Network DTVPal, $60, has both a VCR timer and analog pass-through, as does its brandmate, the TR-40 CRA, which is available in limited quantities for $40. (It arrived too late to be included in this latest update to our DTV converter box guide.) The timer will change the channel on the box so your VCR can automatically record from different channels. Analog pass-through enables a box to feed your TV analog signals as well as digital signals converted to analog. Other tested models with this feature are the Philco TB100HH9, Magnavox TB100MG9 (seen above), and Digital Stream DTX9950. (See our "How to choose: DTV converter boxes" for more information that will help you decide which DTV box features are right for your needs.) As in our first round of tests, all tested models converted broadcast digital signals from our rooftop antenna into analog signals that an older TV can accept, with decent picture and sound quality. They also performed comparably in their ability to pull in digital stations. The number of digital channels that will be available to you depends on how many stations broadcast digitally in your area, the distance from your home, your antenna, and whether trees or other obstructions block the signals.
Personalize your Garmin GPS - Follow that burrito!
Not to be outdone by TomTom's choice of celebrity voices to personalize their portable GPS navigation devices, Garmin offers an increasing variety of vehicle icons to replace the generic car used to identify your position on their units. They are available as free downloads from the company's Web site. Choices range from ones you might expect, like sports cars, racers, and motorcycles, to others you might not. Like images of food. You can choose an image that might look a little more like your own car, minivan, or truck. The Highway Hauler, for example, is an SUV. Come holiday season, you can download the version with a freshly cut tree on its roof, and it becomes the Holiday Hauler. A summer seasonal option is a heavily loaded station wagon bearing a remarkable resemblance to the Family Truckster from "National Lampoon's Vacation," right down to the wood paneling. Cue that one up for your family's own big adventure. An impressively accurate vintage Winnebago might appeal to motor home pilots, and the modified Jeep CJ looks ready for the Rubicon trail. For truckers or long-haul wannabees, a big rig is available. Icons for various emergency vehicles let you give yourself your own police escort, or chase your own ambulance. For those who'd rather be flying, as many of us would when stuck in traffic, a variety of aircraft are offered. And then there's the stuff you might not expect. My personal favorite is the burrito. Yep, as in foil-wrapped, takeout food. Like an edible beacon, the burrito now proudly leads the way on our Nuvi 205W, turning one way and another in appetizing fashion. Not in the mood for Mexican? Download the slice of pizza instead. In case you're wondering, no formal testing is planned to determine the impact of an eternal burrito or slice o' pie on our waistlines, but I'm thinking it can't be good. Pirates of the Caribbean fans can choose the pirate ship Black Pearl, available right side up or upside down. Now, I don't have a problem with someone who chooses to get their guidance from a fictitious pirate ship, capsized or otherwise. But those who opt for the cannon icon are another story. Motorists who like to follow an image of a large, deadly weapon while finding their way to Grandmas, the big box store, or wherever might have some serious road rage issues - but probably not as many as those who choose the tank. There is an impressive selection already, with many icons tied in with specific Garmin marketing campaigns, such as NASCAR racing, and a group for a whimsical winter. Browsing the selection has had us joking about the possibilities for future choices. A cute little bunny...a nuclear submarine...a road-line-painting truck...Pac-Man... Would you install custom guidance icons on your GPS device? And what would you like to see for choices? As for me, I installed a variety on the Nuvi 205W, but I'm sticking with the Burrito of Guidance. —Jim Travers For more...
Not to be outdone by TomTom's choice of celebrity voices to personalize their portable GPS navigation devices, Garmin offers an increasing variety of vehicle icons to replace the generic car used to identify your position on their units. They are available as free downloads from the company's Web site. Choices range from ones you might expect, like sports cars, racers, and motorcycles, to others you might not. Like images of food. You can choose an image that might look a little more like your own car, minivan, or truck. The Highway Hauler, for example, is an SUV. Come holiday season, you can download the version with a freshly cut tree on its roof, and it becomes the Holiday Hauler. A summer seasonal option is a heavily loaded station wagon bearing a remarkable resemblance to the Family Truckster from "National Lampoon's Vacation," right down to the wood paneling. Cue that one up for your family's own big adventure. An impressively accurate vintage Winnebago might appeal to motor home pilots, and the modified Jeep CJ looks ready for the Rubicon trail. For truckers or long-haul wannabees, a big rig is available. Icons for various emergency vehicles let you give yourself your own police escort, or chase your own ambulance. For those who'd rather be flying, as many of us would when stuck in traffic, a variety of aircraft are offered. And then there's the stuff you might not expect. My personal favorite is the burrito. Yep, as in foil-wrapped, takeout food. Like an edible beacon, the burrito now proudly leads the way on our Nuvi 205W, turning one way and another in appetizing fashion. Not in the mood for Mexican? Download the slice of pizza instead. In case you're wondering, no formal testing is planned to determine the impact of an eternal burrito or slice o' pie on our waistlines, but I'm thinking it can't be good. Pirates of the Caribbean fans can choose the pirate ship Black Pearl, available right side up or upside down. Now, I don't have a problem with someone who chooses to get their guidance from a fictitious pirate ship, capsized or otherwise. But those who opt for the cannon icon are another story. Motorists who like to follow an image of a large, deadly weapon while finding their way to Grandmas, the big box store, or wherever might have some serious road rage issues - but probably not as many as those who choose the tank. There is an impressive selection already, with many icons tied in with specific Garmin marketing campaigns, such as NASCAR racing, and a group for a whimsical winter. Browsing the selection has had us joking about the possibilities for future choices. A cute little bunny...a nuclear submarine...a road-line-painting truck...Pac-Man... Would you install custom guidance icons on your GPS device? And what would you like to see for choices? As for me, I installed a variety on the Nuvi 205W, but I'm sticking with the Burrito of Guidance. —Jim Travers For more...
Retirement age headed for a boost?
When the dust and/or mud settles after the presidential election, one question likely to be on the national agenda is whether to “reform” Social Security and Medicare and, if so, how. Privatizing Social Security may be a dead duck, but...
When the dust and/or mud settles after the presidential election, one question likely to be on the national agenda is whether to “reform” Social Security and Medicare and, if so, how. Privatizing Social Security may be a dead duck, but...
Men, age and fatherhood
Women are used to hearing about their "biological clock" and how their fertility declines as they get older. But new research suggests that men's chances of fatherhood are also affected by how old they are. The research, presented at a...
Women are used to hearing about their "biological clock" and how their fertility declines as they get older. But new research suggests that men's chances of fatherhood are also affected by how old they are. The research, presented at a...
Buzzword: XRF
What it means. XRF is not the name of hipster rock band or a new "miracle" diet pill. Rather, this abbreviation stands for x-ray fluorescence, a technique used to detect the presence of elements like lead, cadmium, and arsenic in toys, paints, and other consumer products. If an element is present in a product, an XRF analyzer stirs it up with x-rays and measures the fluorescence activity to determine its relative level. XRF also has industrial and environmental uses. Why the buzz? As we reported in the December 2007 issue of Consumer Reports and as you might have read in news stories over the last year, a rising number of consumer goods have been found to contain dangerous levels of lead. X-ray fluorescence has become a part of the efforts to get these hazardous products off the market. Armed with XRF analyzers, public-health officials, advocacy groups, and responsible manufacturers are able to rapidly screen goods for lead and other harmful elements. XRF machines like the model shown are pricey, costing upward of $35,000, so you won't find them at a nearby home center. But you can hire a lead professional to perform an XRF test on paint and soil in and around your home. Note that homes built before 1978, when lead paint was banned, are very likely to harbor lead somewhere, sometimes buried, in the walls, woodwork or soil and exterior siding. To find a testing company in your area, go to www.epa.gov/lead (click on "lead professionals") or call the National Lead Information Center at 800-424-5323. With all the news about lead in toys and other products, the market for home lead-test kits is growing. Home-use lead test kits, while far more limited than XRF, are another way you can find sources of lead in your home. These kits detect only surface, or accessible, lead, not lead embedded below the surface. For more information, read our September 2008 review of lead and radon test kits. (Note that the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has not approved the use of these kits for the screening of toys, jewelry, and other consumer products.) The National Institute of Standards and Technology and the EPA have found that lead test kits can be effective in identifying lead paint when used correctly. Although, as our tests confirmed, they don't measure the levels of lead present, which, in some cases could be below the federal standards in some positive tests.—Daniel DiClerico Essential information: Read this post from the Consumer Reports Safety blog about Jeffrey Weidenhamer, Ph.D., a professor of chemistry at Ashland University who's been instrumental in raising public awareness about consumer products with high lead levels. And learn how to deal with lead paint in your home.
What it means. XRF is not the name of hipster rock band or a new "miracle" diet pill. Rather, this abbreviation stands for x-ray fluorescence, a technique used to detect the presence of elements like lead, cadmium, and arsenic in toys, paints, and other consumer products. If an element is present in a product, an XRF analyzer stirs it up with x-rays and measures the fluorescence activity to determine its relative level. XRF also has industrial and environmental uses. Why the buzz? As we reported in the December 2007 issue of Consumer Reports and as you might have read in news stories over the last year, a rising number of consumer goods have been found to contain dangerous levels of lead. X-ray fluorescence has become a part of the efforts to get these hazardous products off the market. Armed with XRF analyzers, public-health officials, advocacy groups, and responsible manufacturers are able to rapidly screen goods for lead and other harmful elements. XRF machines like the model shown are pricey, costing upward of $35,000, so you won't find them at a nearby home center. But you can hire a lead professional to perform an XRF test on paint and soil in and around your home. Note that homes built before 1978, when lead paint was banned, are very likely to harbor lead somewhere, sometimes buried, in the walls, woodwork or soil and exterior siding. To find a testing company in your area, go to www.epa.gov/lead (click on "lead professionals") or call the National Lead Information Center at 800-424-5323. With all the news about lead in toys and other products, the market for home lead-test kits is growing. Home-use lead test kits, while far more limited than XRF, are another way you can find sources of lead in your home. These kits detect only surface, or accessible, lead, not lead embedded below the surface. For more information, read our September 2008 review of lead and radon test kits. (Note that the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has not approved the use of these kits for the screening of toys, jewelry, and other consumer products.) The National Institute of Standards and Technology and the EPA have found that lead test kits can be effective in identifying lead paint when used correctly. Although, as our tests confirmed, they don't measure the levels of lead present, which, in some cases could be below the federal standards in some positive tests.—Daniel DiClerico Essential information: Read this post from the Consumer Reports Safety blog about Jeffrey Weidenhamer, Ph.D., a professor of chemistry at Ashland University who's been instrumental in raising public awareness about consumer products with high lead levels. And learn how to deal with lead paint in your home.
Average gas prices--August 25, 2008
Gas prices decline significantly from last week. National retail fuel price averages Price Change from last week Regular gasoline/gallon $3.69 ↓ .06 Diesel fuel/gallon $4.15 ↓ .06 Regional regular gasoline prices Price Change from last week East Coast $3.63 ↓ .07 -New England $3.66 ↓ .07 -Central Atlantic $3.67 ↓ .06 -Lower Atlantic $3.60 ↓ .07 Midwest $3.69 ↓ .02 Gulf Coast $3.52 ↓ .08 Rocky Mountain $3.83 ↓ .05 West Coast $3.91 ↓ .07 -California $3.96 ↓ .08 Source: Energy Information Administration, 8/25/08 For more information on saving fuel see our reports on how to get the best gas mileage and where to find the cheapest gas.
Gas prices decline significantly from last week. National retail fuel price averages Price Change from last week Regular gasoline/gallon $3.69 ↓ .06 Diesel fuel/gallon $4.15 ↓ .06 Regional regular gasoline prices Price Change from last week East Coast $3.63 ↓ .07 -New England $3.66 ↓ .07 -Central Atlantic $3.67 ↓ .06 -Lower Atlantic $3.60 ↓ .07 Midwest $3.69 ↓ .02 Gulf Coast $3.52 ↓ .08 Rocky Mountain $3.83 ↓ .05 West Coast $3.91 ↓ .07 -California $3.96 ↓ .08 Source: Energy Information Administration, 8/25/08 For more information on saving fuel see our reports on how to get the best gas mileage and where to find the cheapest gas.
Cover America: Denied insurance because of a medical coding error
With all manner of high costs, limited protections, and confusing fine print, it’s tough going it alone in the health-insurance market. It’s all the more intimidating for those whose health history is being quietly tracked by a little-known insurance-industry group...
With all manner of high costs, limited protections, and confusing fine print, it’s tough going it alone in the health-insurance market. It’s all the more intimidating for those whose health history is being quietly tracked by a little-known insurance-industry group...
Preparing to drive back to school
The summer season is coming to an end and it's almost time to go back to school. For some students that means packing up the car and heading out on a road trip to campus. Here are some tips to help you pack smartly and prepare your car for the journey. Put the heaviest items up front Make sure the heaviest items are put as far forward in the cargo area as possible, and keep them on the floor. In all vehicles, and SUVs in particular, it is important to keep the heaviest items toward the center of the vehicle. This reduces the potential adverse effect on handling that could be caused by the cargo weight; significant weight at the back could compress the rear springs and reduce the weight over the front wheels, impacting steering and braking. Further, this strategy helps keep the overall center of gravity lower, reducing the likelihood of a rollover. Secure loose items To prevent cargo from flying around during a sudden stop, pack smaller items into boxes and strap down larger ones using the car's cargo anchors. Secure in the cargo section to prevent them from striking passengers in an emergency situation. Refrain from loading large items—or even small, loose items—on the top of your cargo pile, as these can become dangerous projectiles in a panic stop or a crash. Rear visibility is important Make sure that you don't stack your belongings so high that you can't see out. An obscured rear window makes driving difficult and creates considerable risk when reversing. Keep essentials handy Keep a roadside emergency kit, cell phone, and maps or portable GPS system accessible. An emergency kit should have a few basic items such as a first aid kit, fire extinguisher, flares, and a flashlight. See our report on emergency kits for more information on what to keep with you. A cell phone is also useful for an emergency, but make sure you pull over to a safe location before you make a call as to not get distracted on the road. Also, pack a cell phone charger as well. Check out our cell phone Ratings if you’re looking for a new model. For more information on preparing for the new school year, see our back to school guide. —Liza Barth
1The summer season is coming to an end and it's almost time to go back to school. For some students that means packing up the car and heading out on a road trip to campus. Here are some tips to help you pack smartly and prepare your car for the journey. Put the heaviest items up front Make sure the heaviest items are put as far forward in the cargo area as possible, and keep them on the floor. In all vehicles, and SUVs in particular, it is important to keep the heaviest items toward the center of the vehicle. This reduces the potential adverse effect on handling that could be caused by the cargo weight; significant weight at the back could compress the rear springs and reduce the weight over the front wheels, impacting steering and braking. Further, this strategy helps keep the overall center of gravity lower, reducing the likelihood of a rollover. Secure loose items To prevent cargo from flying around during a sudden stop, pack smaller items into boxes and strap down larger ones using the car's cargo anchors. Secure in the cargo section to prevent them from striking passengers in an emergency situation. Refrain from loading large items—or even small, loose items—on the top of your cargo pile, as these can become dangerous projectiles in a panic stop or a crash. Rear visibility is important Make sure that you don't stack your belongings so high that you can't see out. An obscured rear window makes driving difficult and creates considerable risk when reversing. Keep essentials handy Keep a roadside emergency kit, cell phone, and maps or portable GPS system accessible. An emergency kit should have a few basic items such as a first aid kit, fire extinguisher, flares, and a flashlight. See our report on emergency kits for more information on what to keep with you. A cell phone is also useful for an emergency, but make sure you pull over to a safe location before you make a call as to not get distracted on the road. Also, pack a cell phone charger as well. Check out our cell phone Ratings if you’re looking for a new model. For more information on preparing for the new school year, see our back to school guide. —Liza Barth
