More people are planning to hit the road for the holidays this year. While the number of travelers isn’t expected to be as high as in 2019, the availability of COVID-19 vaccinations and the easing of some restrictions have helped people feel more comfortable about vacationing. However, traveling today is more complicated than a few years ago, and leaving home during the holiday season always carries unique risks. The six tips below can help keep you, your home and your vehicle safe as we leave 2021 behind. Read more

Do you have a teenager who is about to start driving? Watch this video for some helpful tips. Read more

Headed out on a road trip this summer? Watch this video for some tips on how to prepare your car for a long drive. Read more

Throughout most of the year, Bay Area residents enjoy exceptionally pleasant weather, exemplified by mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine. The problem is, in this characteristically comfy climate, it’s easy to forget about preparing for when the weather isn’t so nice. Take winter road safety, which many Northern California drivers neglect to prepare for due to the relatively brief rainy season. However, with the slick roads and diminished visibility winter weather often brings, it’s necessary to address this crucial concern. To help you do this, we’ve created the following checklist of areas to assess on your vehicle. Read more

What’s the perfect accessory to go with a cap and gown? A set of car keys. With graduation season upon us, many young people will be getting their first cars before heading off to college or starting their first jobs. A car allows a young person to experience freedom and independence, but it’s also a serious responsibility. School may be over for your child, but the life lessons are just about to begin. To learn how you can help teach your child to be a responsible car owner, read these tips provided by five Diamond Certified Experts.

How to buy a car

For many young people, an auto dealership may be where the car of their dreams crashes into the reality of their bank accounts. Read more

In my role as the Savvy Consumer for the Diamond Certified Resource, I get many opportunities to tap into the expertise of Diamond Certified company owners. I interview them for radio spots for KNBR, KSFO and KGO, as well as for consumer tips that are published in Bay Area newspapers. Some of them are featured in this monthly newsletter. These experts have deep knowledge of their industries and have taught me many things, from how to improve my gas mileage to how to prevent water leaks in my bathroom.

Recently, I came across an interesting tip that deserves attention. Katelyn Radtke, operations manager of Foothill Locksmiths, Inc., has a warning about the potential hazards of letting teething children play with house keys and car keys. Read more

Do you know how to tell if your car’s tires have adequate tread wear? Watch this video for some helpful information. Read more