However, right off the bat, you will not see this error on the dash or screen.

It is after you have run an OBD2 scanner that you will see this specific error.

When you experience this problem, the car will suddenly lose power, then you will see the following errors on the screen.

Then on the dashboard, you will see the following error icons.

Based on my experience, the DC / DC Converter Performance shows that the step-down/step-up transformer inside the inverter has malfunctioned.

Causes of the DC / DC Converter Performance Error

The two main reasons that are most likely the cause of a faulty inverter (step-up/step-down transformer) are wear and tear, and overheating.

Solution

My recommendation for how to solve this problem is to just replace the inverter.

There is the option of importing the inverter from Japan or sourcing one locally in Kenya.

Contact us if you need help sourcing for an ex-Japan inverter for your Mazda Axela Hybrid, the 2014 model.

Here is a photo of the process of replacing a faulty inverter.

Why did my engine stop while driving?

Your car can stall even after ensuring that everything is fine before going. However, the problem may not be as obvious, so taking it into a shop. These are some of the common issues that may cause your car to stop.

1. No fuel

While it seems unlikely that you didn’t notice that your tank is empty, it is more common than you imagine. It may also happen when you change your driving, so your car consumes more fuel than usual. This is why it is good to have some fuel in your car to get you out of such situations. This is one of the more straightforward issues to solve.

2. Bad ignition switch

If you are driving an old car that hasn’t been serviced as recommended, you may have a problem. The vehicle may stall when there is an issue with the ignition switch. This is caused by a current break between the battery and the starter. Unfortunately, there is no fast way to solve this problem, but you could try starting the car a few times before calling a tow.

3. Malfunctioning fuel pump

The fuel pump essentially takes fuel from the tank into the engine for combustion, which helps the car function. This needs to happen at a specific flow rate and pressure; any problem here makes the car stall. Still on the pump’s functions, if there is an issue with the filter, then it is likely the pump is delivering impure fuel to the engine. This could cause a blockage that could interfere with the delivery of power.

4. Low-quality fuel

Some engines require the best quality of fuel to function. It is known as high octane fuel, and if you feed it anything different, it could make the engine stop suddenly. This is why it is essential to be careful about where you refill your vehicle. Unfortunately, this is not a problem that can be instantly solved, so you need professional help.

5. Battery is dead

This is a critical component in your car since it allows it to ignite and run continuously. However, if it dies without your knowledge, then your vehicle would stall since it won’t have electricity for operating. If you suspect that the battery is the issue, don’t try too hard to restart it since this could overwork the alternator.

6. Malfunctioned alternator

A good battery is useless without a well-functioning alternator since it charges the battery to run the vehicle. You may not notice this problem until you get your car running since the alternator works when the engine is on. However, most new models can identify the issue, and you will notice a battery light on the dashboard. Don’t rush to change your battery without having the alternator checked.

7. Bad spark plugs

if your vehicle is gasoline or diesel operated, then it needs the spark plug to ignite it to combust fuel to run the engine. These plugs could malfunction or be hindered from performing their job, which would cause the engine to stop immediately. The issue could be with the spark plug themselves, plug wire, or crankshaft.

8. Signal sensors

If you are driving a very modern car, then you know that sensors are everything. Some read movements from the engine and direct the Electronic Control Unit (ECU). In the case of gasoline engines, they also work with spark plugs for ignition. The sensors could be faulty, stopping all operations in the vehicle or sending the wrong directions to the ECU. This culminates in the engine stopping while driving.

9. Faulty ECU

The sensors help the ECU to do its job. However, the sensors could function adequately, but the ECU could have a problem that prevents the car from running well. When the electronic unit is broken, the vehicle may lack adequate power to operate. The check engine light commonly signals this, but there are cases where it may not go on. An ECU issue should be solved immediately, so do not ignore it since it would easily get you a hefty bill.

10. Overheating

There are several reasons why your car may overheat; one is a faulty coolant sensor. The sensor could give inaccurate readings or stop working suddenly. When it doesn’t deliver coolant into the engine, it will stop immediately to avoid any damage.

What should you do if your vehicle stops while driving?

It is dangerous to start looking for a solution while on the road. You should be concerned about keeping yourself and other road users safe.

1. Turn on the hazard lights

This is the first thing you should do to ensure that other drivers can see the car, so they slow down while approaching you. It could also help you get some assistance from other users if need be by giving you space or helping you get a tow if you are unable to.

2. Get the car off the road

If possible, drive off your car to the side of the road as soon as possible before the car shuts down entirely. If it goes off, try restarting it a few times until you are safely off the road. In case you are unable to, keep the flashers on and try to get help from other drivers to push the vehicle off the road.

3. Try to restart the car

When your car has shut down fully, give it a few minutes to cool down, then try to restart it. Sometimes you may be successful. If you are, then the issue could be the fuel filter is clogged. If your vehicle uses gasoline, then it could be a faulty spark plug. Unless you have extensive knowledge of fixing cars, it is always advisable to get professional help.

The issue of your car stalling while driving is a broad one, and you may have a question about a situation in which you’ve found yourself. The following are some of the commonly asked questions.

What happens if your engine dies while driving?

The immediate effect when your engine stops while driving, then you will lose power in both the steering and brakes. This makes navigating the vehicle quite tricky, but you can slowly guide it off the road to better examine the issue.

Why did my car shut off while driving and won’t start?

Several issues could cause your car to switch off while driving, including a faulty ignition system. The ignition system supplies power for the engine to run, so your vehicle may suddenly stop if it has a problem. Most of these problems can only be identified and solved by a car mechanic.

Why would my car suddenly lose power while driving?

The issue could be mechanical or electrical. Mechanical problems could be caused by blocked and dirty filters or low fuel pump. Electrical issues have to do with the battery, so either the battery is dead, or the alternator is faulty. Another cause is the sensors malfunctioning, such as those in the engine or the coolant.

Can a dead battery cause a car to die while driving?

Yes, it can. Usually, if your battery is dead, then you cannot start the vehicle. However, if it is not fully there yet, the car may ignite but stall soon after, overworking the alternator. You could also damage the alternator, so before changing the battery, check that the alternator is in good condition.

What causes a vehicle to stop while driving?

If your fuel tank is empty or not at the correct pressure, it could suddenly stop. If your fuel injectors are faulty, especially in gas or diesel engines, it will lead to engine failure. A clogged exhaust pipe could also cause it since it interferes with how well the engine combusts fuel.

What causes a car to stall while driving?

It could be caused by inadequate airflow to the engine, or low-quality fuel could cause temporary stalling. Also, issues with the fuel filter, especially when dirty, could prevent the engine from functioning correctly.

What causes a car not to start if the battery is good?

If you are confident that your battery is working, then the likely problem is with the alternator. The alternator charges the car battery, which ensures that your engine functions properly. If the alternator has a problem, then the battery cannot charge, and your car won’t start.

How do you know when the alternator is going out?

A standard indicator that the alternator is not working well is some whining noises from the hood. If your car stalls frequently and you have just changed the battery, then it is a sign that the alternator is faulty. In some cars, you could also get a battery light indicator that there is a problem.

Can low oil cause a car to shut off?

Usually, low oil doesn’t lead to your engine shutting off. However, when the oil is too low- almost empty, then this causes low oil pressure. This could cause the engine to stop to prevent any potential damage.

One of the best ways to avoid your car dying while driving is to start on top of servicing and repairs. A mechanic could identify many of these problems during the regular checks, so you are not inconvenienced. It is also best to address any emerging issues as fast as possible. This includes any warning lights since ignoring them could lead to bigger concerns.

It is legal to drive in flip-flops in all 50 states, and a US police officer has no right to charge you for driving with flip-flops. However, if you are caught in a potentially dangerous offense while driving in flip-flops, you will be charged with careless driving. While it is not legal to drive in flip-flops or barefoot, they increase the risks of causing an accident in certain circumstances.

Why is it dangerous to drive in flip-flops?

There are no laws against driving in loose footwear like flip flops and high heels, but they are potentially dangerous to wear when driving for several reasons.

• Flip flops can physically prevent the ability to drive and affect response time. Anything can happen on the road, and sometimes you are required to respond very quickly. Flip flops can prevent you from applying the right pressure to brake or accelerate promptly.
• Flip flops do not have ankle support, so your feet are likely to slip when pressing on a pedal or switching pedals.
• Flip flops do not have the proper restraints for your feet and can be a distraction when driving when they keep moving around.
• Since flip flops are loose shoes, the straps can get tangled around the pedals, and you may get distracted while attempting to free the shoes or tamper with the pedals.
• Some flip flips have rigid soles, so you may end up putting too much pressure on the gas pedal and end up accidentally accelerating and ramming into something.
• Also, wearing flip-flops when an accident occurs can nullify your car insurance and prevent you from seeking full compensation.

So you may want to reconsider the next time you wear flip-flops when driving. The footwear you choose when driving can significantly affect how the pedals feel, the ease of switching, and the pressure you exert on a pedal.

Can you drive barefoot in case you have no other appropriate driving shoes?

When it comes to driving barefoot, the debate is even more apparent. There is no law or legislation in the US against wearing a particular type of footwear or being barefoot when driving; however, there are also risks involved with driving barefoot. They include:

• Your feet may sweat and make the pedals slippery.
• Your feet can easily slip off from pedals as they d not have the same grip as shoes give.
• You may be unable to apply the heavy pressure required for the clutch pedal.
• If you have socks or stocking on, they can reduce traction between your feet and the pedals, therefore, reducing grip.

Even though driving barefoot is legal, people have a difference in opinion on what is safer between driving in flip-flops and barefoot. Most people, including legal practitioners and law enforcers, agree that driving in flip-flops could cause an accident. But opinions are split when it comes to driving barefoot. Some people say that it is best to drive barefoot as you have more control of the pressure you exert on the pedals than when wearing flip-flops. We can also make the same argument about other shoes like boots and high heels.

We also have those who argue that driving barefoot is less safe than wearing flip flops because your ability to apply the right pressure on the pedal is different when not wearing any footwear. If you are barefoot, it seems less likely to use the appropriate force on a pedal when in certain situations, such as wearing nylon stockings or having sweaty feet, increasing your response time and making it less safe to drive barefoot. Another reason against driving barefoot is your feet may slip down as they do not have the needed grip to stay stable on the pedals, which ultimately increases response time.

Those who are for driving barefoot claim that it is the best way to drive. They say that your feet are more comfortable and light. You also have better control when switching your foot since you have no footwear weighing you down. They also say that you are more likely to notice brake problems as you may feel vibrations from the brake pedal better with bare feet. But similar to wearing flip flops if you get into an accident when barefoot, you can still be charged for careless driving for lack of proper footwear when driving.

Despite some drivers’ argument on barefoot driving being safe, some states such as Ohio and South Dakota do not recommend driving barefoot though it is legal. In a state like Alabama, it is illegal to ride a motorcycle barefoot. Here are some common questions people ask about footwear when driving and whether or not they are legal:

Is it illegal to drive with flip-flops in New Jersey?

The police will not charge you for driving with flip flops in NJ or barefoot, but if you cause an accident, they will assume and argue that wearing flip flops or lack of footwear made you lose control over your pedals.

Is it illegal to drive with flip-flops in California?

The state government in California does not prevent anybody from driving barefoot or in flip-flops, but they insist that the shoes you wear should allow you pedal control when driving.

Most nonresidents and even residents in most states in the US may not be aware of the laws and regulations that involve footwear when driving. If you love to travel or are traveling soon, it is best to know the laws that apply in that country when it comes to footwear when driving.  I have done a short research on popular tourist destinations and their laws or opinions about driving in flip-flops or barefoot.

Though most countries have no explicit law against bare feet or wearing flip-flops or any other kind of footwear while driving, there are countries and even places in those countries with very stringent regulations on when you are allowed to wear flip-flops or drive bare feet. Remember that the court can prosecute you if your choice of footwear when driving puts the lives of others and yours in danger.

Conclusion

People’s opinions also vary on what is safer between wearing flip-flops and being barefoot while driving. Still, the key is to examine how bare feet or flip-flops affect your driving ability. The choice of footwear may vary from person to person. Ultimately, it is your personal decision as a driver to make the choice that keeps you and those around you safe.

About 20 percent of drivers get distracted while driving. Do you want to be part of that statistic? Probably not.

Remaining focused and a simple trick of checking your mirrors often can help you stay away from accidents.

I’ve always checked my mirrors when driving and I’ve never rammed into another car. Let me share my tips.

From my experience, it is practical to check all your three car mirrors within every 10 seconds. While driving in traffic, my frequency of checking the mirrors is usually about every three seconds. In less busy roads, that frequency drops but remains within the 10 seconds I’ve mentioned.

I’ve explained my answer in-depth in the following section.

How often should you check your mirrors while driving?

From my short answer above, you can see the frequency of checking your side mirrors and rear mirror varies.

When I’m cruising on the highway at about 80 miles per hour, I tend to glance at all my mirrors every 10 seconds. However, I find myself checking my rear view mirror more often than the side mirrors because of no lane changing.

Also, since my highway driving needs few to no road position changes, checking my rear view mirror gives a great distance estimation of the vehicle behind me.

Side mirrors have concave mirrors that show the object further than their actual position.

The other reason I glance at my car mirrors less often on the highway is because I’m usually at high speed and need to focus on the road ahead.

On a busy road, I check my mirrors every few seconds.

On such roads all the vehicles around have slowed down and I can afford to take my eyes off the road ahead more often.

I’ve shared below the order in which I check my mirrors.

How to remember to check mirrors when driving

Quite a number of drivers have trouble remembering to check their car mirrors when driving.

For me, checking mirrors is second nature. Let me share how I manage to do it that easily.

The idea is simple. Every time I get into a car, I remind myself it only takes one second for an accident to take place. So, I stay alert and focused, which involves keeping my eyes on the road ahead and checking my mirrors often.

While driving, I also keep reminding myself that the other drivers on the road can lose their focus at any time. With that in mind, I just have to check my mirrors to keep a safe distance from other cars around me.

Remembering how to often take a glance at your rear and side mirrors is more of a habit. You need to practice to hone this habit.

I went back in time to when I was a beginner driver to remember what I did to be good at checking my mirrors. Here are tips you can use to remember to check your car mirrors.

1. Get a “co-driver”

Get a passenger to act as a co-driver. The work of the passenger is to keep you reminding you to check your mirrors.

The passenger can use a stopwatch to count every 10 seconds. If you prefer you can set the interval at 15 seconds.

Do this trick on a less busy road several times and it will start to stick as a habit.

2. Practice for 30 minutes everyday

If you really want to never forget to check your mirrors, there’s no other way than practicing.

Take 30 minutes off your schedule and go practice to check your car mirrors when driving.

During the practice the idea is to keep checking the rear and side mirrors to know what’s around your car while focusing on your driving.

Practice every day for a couple of weeks and you’ll soon find a comfortable rhythm and a sense of how often to glance at your mirrors depending on the driving situation.

3. Use the Mirror-Signal-Maneuver (MSM) approach

I remember my driving instructor always reminding me to check my mirrors first before signaling if I wanted to change my road position.

Over time it became part of my driving.

So, if you keep forgetting to check your mirrors, tell yourself to always remember the initials MSM.

Before you signal you want to change lanes or make a turn, always check the mirrors.

If you want to change your road position to the left, check the rear view mirror then the left side mirror then signal. When planning to change lanes to the right, check the rear view mirror then the right side mirror then signal before moving to the right.

4. Use triggers

The triggers you’d want to use to help you always remember to check your side mirrors are the following.

• When you want to change lanes
• When slowing down
• When you want to accelerate
• If you’re planning to make a turn

I’ll explain why it’s necessary to check your mirrors in the situations listed. Keep reading.

5. Enroll for defensive driving lessons

If you’ve tried the tips above and you still can’t remember to check your car mirrors when driving, then the last resort is to go for defensive driving lessons.

These driving lessons are intense and will really hone your driving skills.

Just to highlight what these classes entail, you’ll learn to not only learn how to be a keen driver with minimal mistakes on the road, but also be aware of other drivers and how to quickly react to incidents as a driver.

How do you check mirrors while driving?

The correct way of checking your mirrors is using the MSM approach.

Start with the rear view mirror then the side mirrors. As I have already mentioned, to be aware of what’s happening on the left side of your car you need to check the rear then the left side mirror.

To know what’s on the right side of your car, you have to take a glance at the rear then the right hand side mirror.

If it’s already a habit, you’ll find yourself checking the rear view mirror more often than the sides. Afterall checking the rear mirror more frequently is a good thing since it gives you a more accurate distance estimation of the car behind than the sides.

When should you check your mirrors when driving?

If you’ve read the section above about how to remember to check your mirrors, I mentioned some triggers.

Actually, the triggers I listed are good indicators for when you should check your car mirrors when driving. Let’s go through them.

1. Before you change lanes or road position

You’ll be putting yourself in danger if you change road lanes without checking your mirrors.

So, if you’re planning to change lanes in the next few miles ahead, make sure to check your rear view mirror then either the left or right side mirror depending on where you want to move.

When in such a situation you can frequently check your sides and only change your road position if the road is clear and there’s no car approaching at a high speed.

You also need to signal early enough to let the drivers behind you know you’re about to change lanes.

2. When braking

You do not want to step on the brakes especially without checking the rear view mirror.

Suddenly slowing down could cause the driver to ram into you if they hadn’t maintained a safe braking distance.

Taking a glance at the rear before braking will give you an idea of gently or quickly you can safely slow down.

3. When you’re about to accelerate

Make sure before you step on the gas to check all the three mirrors.

Knowing how other drivers around you are behaving will help you accelerate only when it’s safe. Accelerating without checking your rear and sides can easily lead to an accident especially if there’s another driver who’s already accelerating and planning to change lanes after overtaking you.

4. When you want to turn, exit a road, or join another road

Imagine making a left turn without checking your left side mirror. That’s dangerous.

You can easily crash into the vehicle on your left.

Start actively checking your mirrors about a mile before your next turn. Do the same when you’re about to exit a road or want to join another road to avoid a T-bone accident.

Conclusion

Checking the three mirrors on your car is a basic practice that many drivers learn early on as beginner drivers. Your instructor will keep reminding you to glance at your mirrors.

When on your own, you have to check the rear and side mirrors often to avoid getting into an accident. I do it about every 10 seconds. On a less busy road, you can afford to check after 20 to 30 seconds.

Generally, on a busy road the frequency of checking the three mirrors should be higher than on a road with few to no cars.

Now, what we need to know is whether it’s better to drive without or with shoes.

You might be spending hours going through your shoe collection to pick the best shoe for driving for your next road trip. What if you didn’t need that shoe at all and you’re more comfortable driving barefooted.

I always drive while wearing my favorite Vans or Chuck Taylors, let’s find out if barefoot driving can be an option.

Let’s start with the short answer for barefoot or shoed driving.

Generally, it’s better to drive with shoes than barefoot. Some beginner drivers say driving without shoes gives them better grip and feel of the pedals. The repeated stepping on the pedals can become painful on a long drive and you could lose the ability to control the car. Having comfortable shoes on gives much better grip.

What does the law say about driving without shoes?

Is it illegal to drive barefoot?

It is not illegal to drive a car without shoes in most parts of the world including the United States and United Kingdom. There’s no law that prohibits bare feet driving.

For instance, in Michigan, there’s no clause in their vehicle code that says it is wrong to drive without wearing any shoes.

That’s the case with all the other states in the US. You can drive around in any state without worrying about committing any offense that can accumulate points in the Point System.

Is it illegal to drive with flip flops?

Similarly, to driving barefooted, there’s no law that states the kind of footwear one has to put on while driving. So, you’ll be committing no offense if you choose to drive in flip flops.

What I’d want you to be aware of is the experience of driving with flip flops.

To some drivers, flip flops really feel comfortable while driving. The problem with this type of footwear is that they can be dangerous if they’re loose, slippery, or large.

Let’s talk about the challenges of driving in flip flops in the next section below.

Is it better to drive with flip flops or barefoot?

Actually, is it better to drive without shoes compared to flip flops? Does this come as a surprise to you?

Barefoot driving is even safer than flip flops.

Let’s start with driving without shoes being better than turning to flip flops as your driving footwear.

Driving barefooted will give you a good feel for the pedals. It usually translates to good control of the car while on the move.

On the flipside, most flip flops are loose and slippery. To say the least, you’ll struggle driving with flip flops. Part of your attention will go into trying to ensure the flip flops don’t slide off your feet. Sweaty feet will also add to your list of troubles controlling the car.

Also, in case the flip flops are wide, you could easily step on the gas instead of the brake pedal.

Is it safe to drive barefoot?

It’s within the law to drive without shoes. So, you can drive a car without shoes. However, is it safe to do so?

On short trips to run errands in an automatic transmission car, barefoot driving can be safe.

I’m yet to drive barefoot, but I have a friend who does it all the time. From my observation, it’s pretty easy and comfortable to drive without shoes. However, his drives are usually less than 50 miles. I don’t know how he’ll fare on a long road trip especially because he drives a 2014 Toyota Hilux with a manual transmission.

Logically though, you’re likely to sweat when driving especially in summer. Now imagine having sweaty and slippery feet while trying to drive a manual car. Your feet will lose grip and easily slide and miss the pedals. In such a tricky situation, you can lose control of the car in a heartbeat posing danger to yourself and other road users.

That should answer your question in case you were wondering is it dangerous to drive without shoes.

Driving barefoot means the skin on your feet gets worked and can develop blisters. With the blisters, it will only be a matter of time before the pain of controlling the pedals becomes unbearable. I guess you’d want to choose a painful driving experience instead of wearing shoes.

Now that we’re talking about shoes, do you have a preferred pair that you’re willing to bet they’re the best?

What are the best shoes for driving?

Picking the best shoes from the tons of options available on the market is a matter up for debate. Everyone has their favorite footwear. For me, I’ve driven in Chuck Taylors and a couple of Vans shoes and they’re really comfortable.

At the end of the day though, the best shoes for driving are those that fit perfectly, have a thin sole that’s grippy for the pedals, preferably low profile, and are comfortable to wear for long hours.

What shoes are you not allowed to drive in?

Just as is for barefoot driving, there’s no law that states the specific kind of shoes a driver should wear while behind the wheel. So, you can drive in any type of shoes that you want.

With the freedom of driving in any shoes you want comes responsibility. You need to pick wisely unless you want to end up with a pair of oversized boots. If for some reason you still wear oversized shoes while driving, you’ll quickly realize how tough it is to control the car.

Does driving barefoot invalidate your insurance?

Motor insurance companies (actually all insurance companies) are always keen on details. Also, some of their terms that can invalidate your cover are in fine print.

Since barefoot driving isn’t illegal, it is only in extreme cases that your insurer can invalidate your insurance cover especially after you get into an accident.

After an accident, the normal thing to do is to file for a claim payout. However, your insurance company will have to investigate the matter to determine the cause of the accident. You’ll only qualify for a payout if the reason for the accident wasn’t your fault.

If you’re driving without shoes and you get into an accident, the police can determine your barefoot driving as the cause.

With the help of that police report, your insurer could easily perceive your case as reckless driving. And in such a case, your chances of getting a payout will be close to zero.

So, it is safe to say you can occasionally drive barefooted without breaking the law. During such occasional drives, make sure you don’t cause an accident. That way, you can get away with both barefoot driving and not getting on the wrong side of the law.

Take away

You can drive without shoes in most parts of the world without breaking any law. However, you can lose control of the car if you’re barefoot behind the wheel.

Also, another point to note is that you’d rather drive barefoot than in heels or flip flops. Always choose comfortable and fitting footwear if you want smooth drives.

You’re likely to receive no payout if you’re involved in an accident and you were wearing no shoes while driving.

In my case, I have experienced a shaking steering wheel after a garage visit to replace my tie rods.

While getting my problem fixed, I found out that tie rod replacement can lead to a host of issues that I’ve covered below. Your car might be experiencing one of the following problems without you knowing.

1. Toe angle problems

One of the first problems you will encounter after a tie rod replacement is misalignment on the toe angle.

The common cause for a problematic toe angle is installing tie rods with mismatching lengths.

Toe adjustment only on one side is the other reason for toe angle problems.

Driving with an off toe angle can cause suspension damage and a bump steer if not fixed early enough.

2. Unsteady steering wheel

Another problem you may encounter after replacing your tie road is an unsteady steering wheel, especially when driving on a smooth flat surface.

Since the tie rod is responsible for steering a badly installed one so if it was not well installed or had issues, the steering wheel will be affected. You can test if your steering wheel is balanced by driving straight on a smooth pavement; if the steering wheel tugs to the left or right, you have an alignment problem. You will also feel like you do not have full control of the steering wheel, reducing your response time when turning.

3. Vibrating steering wheel

The tire rod replacement was supposed to fix the vibrating steering wheel, but if the issue persists after the change, you should get the new tie rod changed. A vibrating steering wheel may not seem that alarming, but it is usually an early sign that something is faulty in your steering system.

4. Uneven tire wear

You may notice that your wheels wear out faster or wear out unevenly after a tie rod replacement. When you look at the wear pattern on your tires’ treads, you will notice that the wear is not even. Typically, the vehicle’s weight is spread across all wheels equally when the components of the suspension and steering systems lock correctly. You should recheck your tie rod replacement as uneven tire wear will affect your driving ability and the vehicle’s balance as well.

5. Squealing noise from the tires

When tires are wearing out unevenly, they make a squealing sound that gets louder when accelerating or turning. This noise may not be noticeable soon after a tie rod replacement, but the squealing gets louder as the tires worsen over time.

6. Increased fuel intake

If you are very keen, you may notice high gas mileage after replacing your tie rod. This problem happens if the tie rod replacement was not efficient. Your misaligned wheels will have increased resistance with the road leading to more fuel consumption.

One common question that many car owners ask is; do I need an alignment after a tie rod replacement, and can a tie rod affect alignment? Yes, and yes. Your vehicle’s tie rod is almost synonymous with a wheel alignment. And it is usually a very critical step after a tie rod replacement. Wheel alignment is mandatory after replacing any suspension or steering components. The tie rods control the steering angles, and if they have just been tampered with, the wheel angles have likely changed.

A wheel alignment will fix the toe angles back to the car’s specifications. Forgetting to do a wheel alignment after a tie rod replacement will lead to all the problems explained above and maybe even more expensive repairs. Subsequently, a faulty tie rod will affect your alignment and steering abilities. A wheel alignment will make your wheels last longer and give you a smoother drive. You also get to save on fuel consumption and frequent wheel changes.

Sloppy steering after tie rod replacement

What causes the steering wheel to feel sloppy after replacing inner tie rods?

The inner tie rod connects to the steering assembly, so a problem with the inner road replacement will lead to a loss of ability to steer the wheel. Below are some of the reasons behind a wobbly steering wheel after inner tie rod replacement.

If the joint that connects the inner tie rod and the outer tie rod was not adjusted properly, it could cause the steering wheel to feel sloppy after a replacement.

Another reason could be that you did not replace a worn-out tie rod end. If you replaced your tie rod due to wear, the tie rod end was also likely to wear out too, as they have the same lifespan. A worn-out tie rod end has excess free play, which causes the front wheels to lose their alignment. So driving with a new tie rod with a defective tie rod end will still cause an unsteady steering wheel and degrade the new inner tie rod quickly.

Worn-out ball joints could be a reason for a sloppy steering wheel. The ball joints are part of the suspension system; they support the vehicle’s weight and allow proper steering. Though the ball joints work independently from the tie rods, your steering ability also gets affected if the ball joints fail.

A torn tie rod boot can damage your new tie rod end and cause steering problems. Water and other contaminants damage the tie rod end, causing excessive play, which leads to a shaky or vibrating steering wheel. So you also have to replace the protective boot with the tie rod because, once the protective boot degrades, the tie rod end won’t last long.

If your inner tie rod replacement is okay, a wobbly steering wheel could be a sign of failing wheel bearings. Wheel bearings allow friction-free movement and wheel rotation, so if the wheel bearings become defective, it causes looseness in the steering wheel.

Damaged brake rotors and braking pads can cause the steering wheel to feel shaky. If the brake rotors wear out or warp, you will feel some vibration on the steering wheel when slowing down or braking.

Bad braking pads can cause a wobbly steering wheel. The front brake system connects to the steering wheel through a series of steering systems. So if the brake rotor is in good condition, the next most likely culprit has worn out braking pads.

Tips to remember when replacing your tie rod

These tips are essential to remember when replacing your tie rod to reduce the risk of premature tie rod failure.

After replacing your tie rod, always perform a wheel assignment. If you did the replacement yourself, have the alignment done at a reputable auto shop. If you have a mechanic replacing the tie rod, always confirm that the alignment is done and ask for a report. Most times, the mechanics charge the alignment separate from the tie rod replacement.

Tie rods do not have a universal design. What fits in one car may not work in yours. When buying a replacement tie rod, always make sure it is compatible with the old one or always go for a manufacturer’s recommendation.

When replacing the tie rod yourself, always confirm with your user manual on the proper torque values to use. The incorrect torque will lead to premature tie rod failure.

Apply lubrication oil such as WD40 on the nuts and other joints to minimize friction.

If you’re experiencing problems after a tie rod replacement, it indicates premature tie rod failure. You will experience a loose steering wheel and the effects of poor wheel alignment, which can also lead to an accident if you do not address the issue early. These problems tend to arise from poor or lack of wheel alignment after tie rod replacement, low-quality replacement parts, or the wrong tie rod for your car.

Conclusion

Put simply from the article; your car can’t steer without tie rods. And in the case that you develop problems after a tie rod replacement, it is imperative to do a diagnosis and repairs as soon as possible. Be on the lookout for any of the signs listed above and respond accordingly to avoid any further problems and repairs.

Here’s what I found after my research.

Usually, a thumping sound from your car is a sign that you have tire problems. When tires are wearing out unevenly, they produce a thumping sound. If the sound is loud enough for you to hear with the windows closed, then it is likely that more than one tire is affected. Sometimes the noise may seem like it’s coming from the tires, but the tires may not have issues.

Since a car has many complex systems, a thumping sound can mean different things.

Here’s a table showing different thump noises, meaning, and their estimated repair cost assuming you have a Honda Civic.

The table just gives a snapshot of how to quickly diagnose a thump noise.

Car thumb noises and their meanings

Here’s an in-depth explanation for the different sounds.

1. Noise caused by the type of tires

It would be best to know that different tires make different noises. For example, most tires will make a thumping noise on concrete surfaces with expansion joints.

If you had your tires replaced recently, the problem could be the type of tires. Steel-belted tires are very tough, stiff, and durable but are also very noisy. They have a distinct low thud noise when driving.

Belted tires using fiberglass or synthetic materials are quieter and give a smoother ride.

So if you just got new tires, the thump sound could be from the type of tires you have. But if the noise sounds new and abnormal, that sounds like a problem that needs fixing.

2. Uneven worn-out tires’ noise

If there is a thumping sound from the rear of the car, it is most likely a tire problem.

To put it to the test,  try driving your car on a smooth surface with no vehicles at about 2-3 miles per hour and let go of your steering wheel. If the steering wheel is unstable, it means your back tires are wearing out unevenly, which can be dangerous when you start accelerating.

It would be best if you got your wheels replaced immediately.

3. Worn-out struts or shocks

If the car sounds like it has a flat tire but doesn’t, there is a problem with either the struts or shocks.

Your vehicle has struts at the front wheels and shocks on the rear wheels for absorbing shock and support.

When the struts or shocks start to wear out, they vibrate against the car’s body, producing a thumping sound. You will need to replace the worn-out strut or shocks.

4. Broken starter motor mount

Another reason the front of your car is producing a thump when accelerating is a broken starter motor mount.

The starter motor mount connects the engine and the chassis and absorbs vibration coming from the engine.

So if you have a bad starter motor mount and you accelerate, it produces heavier vibrations. Replace the rubber seal on the motor mount to fix the problem.

5. Warped brake rotors

When there is a problem with your car’s braking system, it tends to make a thumping sound when slowing down or braking.

If the brake rotors have worn out or warped, you will hear the rhythmic sound coming from your front wheels, which do most of the braking. You will also feel some vibration from your steering wheel. If they are twisted, you can quickly straighten them without needing a replacement.

6. Noise caused by worn-out brake pads

The pad material on cheap breaking pads wears out quickly and accumulates around the rotor.

Also, the metal chunks exposed by the worn-out pad material can scratch against the rotors and cause a thumping sound.

If you notice your braking pads are worn, you can easily replace them with quality ones.

7. Faulty transmission

A transmission problem can also cause a thumping sound from the front.

To identify this problem, go to a place with no cars and downshift the transmission while allowing the vehicle to slow down without stepping on the brake pedal.

If you still hear the noise from the front of the car, then there is a transmission problem. Check all your fluids and refill them.

8. Worn out spark plugs

Your car could be fine until you’re at a traffic light stop and you start hearing some knocking or thumping sound.

When the engine is not firing correctly on all cylinders, your car will make a thumping sound when idle, which causes heavy vibrations.

If you have worn-out spark plugs, they will prevent the engine from igniting the mixture of fuel and air properly on all cylinders, causing a misfire.

It would be best if you had your mechanic perform a cylinder balance test using a scan tool. A weak cylinder vacuum or thin seal valve may be the reason for a thumping on idle.

9. Bad wheel bearing

The most common way of identifying a bad wheel bearing is a wheel bearing thump when the car is going through a curve that also changes in proportion to the vehicle’s speed.

The noise can also be very inconsistent, and it can be loud sometimes or very quiet on other occasions.

You can confirm the bearings’ condition by jacking the car and rocking the tires back and forth.

Place a dial indicator on the hub while turning the wheel in and out by hand. The dial indicator measures the bearing play. Experts say that any bearing play of more than 0.005 is terrible, and you should replace them immediately.

Identifying the bearing with the problem may be difficult, so you have to measure the wheels bearing on all tires.

10. A damaged exhaust system

A thumping noise coming from your exhaust means there is a problem in your exhaust system. It also tends to be a shallow thumping sound and is more apparent when you stop the car without turning off the engine.

It would be best if you did not ignore any problem signs from your exhaust as it could leak carbon monoxide into your car.

11. Low tire pressure

When your car makes thudding noise while driving, it means that your tires have low and uneven air pressure. It could also mean that your wheels are misaligned. If you do not have a flat tire, the thud noise is usually accompanied by a bumpier ride, especially when driving on smooth roads.

12. Worn-out CV joint

After a trip to the mechanic, my car’s diagnosis is a damaged Constant Velocity joint (CV joint) on the left side, which the mechanic replaced. I also noticed grease dripping along the inside of the wheel rim from a tear in the CV joint.

The CV joint transfers power from the transmission to the wheels at a constant speed while supporting the suspension’s up and down motion. So when it wears out, it makes a thump or a click sound when turning, and the car also becomes bouncy.

Any unusual sounds coming from your car is always an excellent way to identify a problem before it worsens and leads to more expensive repairs. Since people describe sounds differently, you have to take your car to get a more professional diagnosis and repair.

Can you fill your tires with nitrogen at home instead of car center refills? Yes! It’s easy to give your tires a refill by yourself by using a nitrogen-filled cylinder and following the correct steps. Remove as much air as possible from the tires, then refill them with nitrogen. A 96-percent nitrogen fill is good enough since you cannot get rid of all the air before you start filling.

Fill your tires with nitrogen at home

Filling your tires with nitrogen at tire centers or car dealerships will quickly pile up your car maintenance costs. So, why don’t you invest in a home nitrogen refill setup? Here’s what you will need. Also, check the table below for the analyzed numbers.

1. Nitrogen tank or cylinder

For your home use, you will need a nitrogen cylinder (mid-sized tank) just like the ones you use for welding gases. You can opt for a tank that holds about 300 cubic feet of nitrogen, which will be enough for about 60 refills.

The mid-sized tank is a reasonable investment. Getting the 300 cu/ft size will cost about $400, so can opt for a small-sized one like a 125 cu/ft on Amazon. You’ll pay about $40 to refill 300 cu/ft if you run out of nitrogen.

If you do the calculations, your 300 cubic feet of nitrogen cylinder can refill your car tires about 15 times. You will end up saving lots of money since most nitrogen refills cost between $3 and $10 per tire ($12 – $40 for all tires).

2. Digital tire inflator

Tire inflators let you regulate how much air fills your tires. It connects from the nitrogen tank to the tire valve.

Connecting your digital tire inflator or gauge is a matter of plugging and screwing. You can use Teflon tape for an air-tight connection to the gas cylinder.

Some inflator packs come with standard valve caps, which you won’t use (use the nitrogen valve caps instead).

3. Portable nitrogen analyzer

You don’t want all your effort in setting up a nitrogen filling system to go to waste. Get a portable nitrogen analyzer to check the nitrogen percentage in your tires after each refill.

Besides the cylinder, an N analyzer is the other expensive part of your DIY nitrogen filling station.

4. Nitrogen valve caps

After your tires are rocking at least 96 percent nitrogen, you want people to know you’ve gone green.

Have you ever seen those green tire valve stem caps labeled N2? Those are the ones you need to seal your tires.

5. Lift jack

As a car owner who loves DIYing, a lift jack is part of my toolset. If do not have one, it will another addition to the things you need during your tire filling procedure. I recommend getting a heavy triple lift jack (check the exact price on Amazon).

How much does it cost to fill tires with nitrogen?

With the breakdown of all the things you need to fill your tires at home with nitrogen, we can estimate how much you will spend.

Here’s an interesting comparison table.

Let’s break down the second table. We’re working with a 300 cubic feet cylinder that can roughly fill 60 tires. It means you can fill all the four tires of your car 15 times before buying another supply of nitrogen for your cylinder.

As mentioned, filling your tires at a gas center costs anywhere between $3 and $10. Let’s use $5 per tire fill, which means you’ll spend $20 for all your tires.

Procedure for filling nitrogen in your tires at home

The purpose of filling your tires with N gas is to enjoy the benefits it offers. We’ll discuss the benefits later in this post, but first here are the correct steps you need to follow.

• Remove the valve core to let out as much existing air as possible from the tire. If you don’t have a special tool for removing valve cores, use a pair of needle-nose pliers. Lift your car using a lift jack before removing the valve core.
• Connect the digital tire inflator to the nitrogen cylinder and fill up the tire with about five pounds of pressure. Then, let it blow out again to eliminate the remaining oxygen.
• Before all the air blows out, screw back the valve core.
• Now, fill up the tire with pure nitrogen to full pressure.
• The next step is to find out how much N is inside your refilled tire. Use the nitrogen analyzer gauge by connecting its nozzle to the tire valve. Let it analyze the air coming out of the tire for about 25 seconds.
• Repeat the steps if the N reading is less than 96 percent.

Can I put nitrogen in my tires myself? Where can I fill my tires with nitrogen? These are some of the questions I saw people asking online during my research.

If you follow the steps I have listed above you can clearly fill your tires yourself, and do it at home.

How do you check nitrogen-filled tires?

Plug the nozzle of your N analyzer onto the tire valve. As air escapes from inside the tire, the analyzer will display the percentage of N.

Tires filled with nitrogen will generally show a percentage higher than 92.

You won’t have to worry much about your tires losing pressure if you go the ‘green way’. However, you can still use the digital tire inflator to check the tire pressure when it’s cold, before driving, or after 3 hours of driving. When using the inflator to check your tire psi, do not connect it to the cylinder.

Compare the psi you’ve measured with what the car manufacturer recommends. You can find those details on the doorjamb sticker usually found on the driver’s side. Both readings should be roughly the same. The inflator has a deflation button in case of excess pressure.

Does cold weather affect nitrogen-filled tires?

Yes, a drop in temperature affects tires filled with nitrogen. During the cold season, a 10-degree Fahrenheit drop will cause a two percent pressure loss in N-filled tires.

The solution for this issue is to fill your tires 10 percent higher than the manufacturer recommended psi. However, do not go beyond the tire’s recommended psi. It might blow up.

Benefits of filling tires with nitrogen

By nature, compressed nitrogen is more homogenous and has large molecules. Its large molecules minimize tire leak-outs. However, there are other benefits of using N to fill your car tires.

1. Minimal tire temperature changes

N does not heat up as quickly as compressed air does. Because of that, your tire temperature will remain consistent hence minimizing the chances of tire blowouts associated with overheated tires.

2. Its effect on tire life

A tire operating temperature plays a part in how it wears out. If you opt for nitrogen, your temperatures will remain almost constant even after long drives hence causing minimal wear and tire associated with heated tires.

3. How it holds-up your tire pressure

You’re guaranteed consistent tire pressure for the most part of using your car. Nitrogen maintains its temperature in a hot environment hence your tires won’t have an increased pressure like in air-filled tires.

Nitrogen particles are large compared to normal air so pressure loss will be slow even in cold weather.

4. Its reaction with your tires

N is inert and dry. It is way less reactive compared to normal compressed air that can react with moisture and cause rust on the metal rim.

5. Is it a real ‘green’ option?

Nitrogen is considered a green alternative since tire pressure is constant and consistently at the right level. I turn, your car tires will run smoothly with less rolling resistance hence fuel-efficient and save on fuel expenses.

Because N can lengthen the life of your tires there will be no need to replace them often hence help in slashing your tire maintenance costs.

Besides the advantages I have listed, vehicles that operate in hazardous areas like mines should use nitrogen in their tires to reduce fire risk since it is an inert gas.

Also, you can consider using nitrogen instead of normal air tire filling because of the following reasons.

• If you drive a high-performance vehicle
• Frequent travels to areas with cold weather (pressure loss in air-filled tires)
• Live in cold or warm areas since extreme temperatures can affect air-filled tires
• If you use high-quality tires and hope to extend their lifespan

What are the disadvantages of nitrogen?

Ditching compressed air tire filling comes at a cost.

For instance, here is a valid question.

1. How much does it cost to fill tires with nitrogen?

You’ll need to think about the cost. The standard cost to fill a tire can vary from $3 to $10 per tire. The price depends on variables like tire size and pressure.

On the other hand, standard air is mostly free or $1 at many gas centers. Some dealerships, tire centers, and service stations offer free refills on-site if you buy their tires or a car from them.

2. Less available compared to normal gas

Nitrogen can be challenging to find since it’s less popular as a tire refill gas and you’re more likely to find it in select service stations.

3. Tire manufacturer warranty issues

Some tire manufacturers have policies regarding filling up their tires with nitrogen. Not all tire brands appreciate nitrogen use and may not cover it in their warranties.

I advise that you check with the tire manufacturer to see if a particular tire model you have will still be covered by their guarantee or not.

Conclusion

Filling your tires with nitrogen at home is simple. The huddle you’ll have to cross is the initial investment cost of buying the cylinder, digital tire inflator, nitrogen analyzer (you don’t have to buy it), and the valve caps. In the long run, you’ll save money while enjoying better performing tires than when using normal compressed air in your tires.

Yes, we want to find out if Vans are good for driving.

I own a pair of black Sk8-Hi and they feel very comfortable while I’m driving, but don’t take my word for it. We dived deep into YouTube and found out Vans are great driving shoes in rush hour traffic or long trips.

From the 53 videos we watched, we noted that any type of Vans will be good for daily driving. In 33 of the videos, the drivers wore either the Classics or Sk8.

Also, 28 drivers on those videos were driving manual shift cars and had great pedal control in their Vans. If you’re driving an automatic shift car, you’ll be sure of easy control of the gas and brake pedals while wearing any pair of Vans shoes.

If you decide to get a pair of Vans Authentic, Sk8, Old Skool, or any type that has laces, you’ll have to properly laced them properly for a comfortable tight fit. Proper lacing will allow you to move your feet easily from the gas and brake, as well as the clutch (if it’s a manual shift car).

The best-selling Vans to choose for driving

Vans are among the most popular brands of shoes which different people prefer. The classic skate shoes and casual Vans are most preferred. Below is a list of the best Van shoes you can consider for your driving.

1. Vans classic checkerboard slip-on

It’s a simple slip-on shoe that features a stripped-back construction with no added features.  The grippy soles cling to the pedals entirely even when damp. The rugged yet flexible model makes the right combination of comfort and control.

Here are the things you’ll love about these classic Vans as driving shoes.

• Padded collar and footbed for increased comfort
• Shock absorbent footbed
• Durable
• Waffle rubber sole
• Lightweight
• Well-fitting
• Versatile

2. Vans Sk8-Hi

These are our favorites. The Sk8-Hi is durable with a more extensive shape for comfort and support. You’ll love the signature waffle outsole, best for dependable grip and traction.

You will probably get more life out of the Sk8-Hi as regular driving shoes than any other pair on this list.

3. Vans Old Skool Gumsole

The best driving shoes, comfortable though not stylish, durable, and have grippy sole traction. The boots are super versatile with a  variety of outfits and in more different technical situations.

9 Reasons why Van shoes are good for driving

There are tons of good driving shoes on the market. For instance, Converse also has great options that we covered in this post. But why go for Vans?

1. Are they good during winter or summer?

Vans shoes have fleece inside to keep your legs warm during winter. During summer, the shoes can absorb moisture, ensuring your feet remain fresh and keep off odor. By being breathable, these shoes turn out to be the best outfit for a long drive.

2. Why lightweight and flexibility matters

When driving in a pair of Vans you won’t miss to notice how comfortable and highly responsive they feel. You’ll easily move back and forth from the accelerator to the brakes without any delay.

The easy movements also mean your feet won’t tire quickly.

3. How much do you love options?

Vans shoes come in almost limitless options. You can choose from a wide span of different combinations of colors and designs. There are low and high ankle options like the Authentics and the Sk8-Hi, respectively. Don’t forget that Slip-ons are also available.

With all the listed options, you’ll probably end up buying several pairs that match your taste. Again, you can wear Vans to any occasion and match them with your dress code.

4. What’s the cheapest pair of Vans?

The shoes are affordable with a price range for your pocket. As much as you consider the balance between quality and price, Van shoes will offer you both. Check out this cheapest pair we found.

5. Vans are comfortable

You won’t know how comfy Vans are until your try a pair. The looks of the Sk8-Hi may be deceiving. Those high-ankle shoes do not restrict your ankle movement, allowing you an excellent wide range of motion. Actually, they give you comfortable ankle support.

The shoes are also available in accurate sizes for a nice fit.

6. Two years and counting

My current pair of Sk8-Hi are two years old. Also, while watching people driving in Vans, we noticed quite a number of them were classics (meaning several years old).

These two observations prove that Vans are good quality shoes, durable, and made for rough use. Even if you go for the likes of the stylish Customs Racing Red UltraRange EXO that are a bit costly you are guaranteed it’s worth the price, the shoe will serve you for long.

7. Fashion and style

You can have them on with anything and still look stylish. Besides being good driving shoes, you can still rock them as part of your casual or professional wear.

8. Easy heel and toe movement

When driving a manual car, you need easy heel and toe movement. Pick a pair of Vans and you’ll thank me later.

The Classics, Authentic, and Sk8-Lo have a nice tight grip on the fit hence stepping on and off the pedals is pretty swift. On the other hand, the high-ankle options still offer easy heel and toe movement with nice ankle support.

When considering a pair of shoes for comfortable and safe driving we generally recommend you check out the following things.

• Decent stitching
• Heel support
• Cushioning and insoles
• Flexibility
• Pedal feel
• Extra padding around the toe box
• Grippy soles
• Best comfort

Vans shoes tick all the features and that’s why they are among the best shoes for most types of driving.

For those who’ve tried them, Vans are good for driving. You only need to pick the correct size for your feet, lace them up (if necessary) properly, and you’ll be ready for any type of drive. You can choose a pair that matches with most of your outfits if you mind your dressing style.

If you think about it, there are tons of shoe options that can ease your drive. If you ignore the options, are Converse good for driving for that matter?

Most Converse shoes are lightweight and have sticky soles that minimize slipping while stepping on your car pedals hence offer a comfortable driving experience. Be it a manual or an automatic gear shift, expect to have a less challenging long drive especially if you opt for the unisex Chuck Taylor low-top.

What makes Chucks good driving shoes?

In one way or another, you know about Chucks. They’re popular and have a rich history spanning over a century. Besides all that, here’s why I have always picked Converse as my go-to shoes for my many drives.

1. Appropriate sole thickness

Thin Sole – you will drive safely with converse due to the thin sole helping you make your calculation right when braking. It will allow you to feel the pedals properly and apply the correct amount of pressure

2. Comfortable on your feet

Chucks fit perfectly. You just need to pick your correct foot size to get a perfect fit.  Having well-fitting shoes helps you to drive efficiently and properly step on the pedals.

If you’ve ever owned a pair of Converse, you must have noticed the stretchable material that allows comfortable feet movement.

3. Ankle-protective

4. The sole should be non-slippery when wet

5. Rounded heels

The rounded-heels are perfect for allowing smooth control when releasing and pressing pedals for full brake pedal control

6. Slim Design

It helps the shoes take up only a small pedal area space. You can quickly shift your foot from the brake to the gas pedal accurately.

When searching for the best driving shoes online, you’re likely to find people recommending Vans shoes. Here’s a post talking about Vans as driving shoes.

While shopping for your shoes, these are the characteristics you should check out. The thin sole enables you to have the best pedal pressure when braking or accelerating. But if the sole is thick, it means more weight, which hinders you in controlling the pedal. The sole shouldn’t be wide, too, as it can touch two pedals. It should have a good grip also to avoid slipping. Shoes with tire tread fit driving as they can adequately grip the pedals.

What type of shoes is best for driving?

Chuck Taylor Converse shoes (Chucks) have what a driver needs for an evening traffic drive or a long road trip.

If you get a pair of Chucks or any Converse for that matter, you’ll feel how the excellent outer sole, lightweight, breathable material, laces for a secure fit make Converse ideal for driving.

It also has a tread pattern on the sole for excellent grip and traction. The rubber sole is thin and flexible for easy pedal movement.

Why are you not supposed to drive barefoot?

Driving without shoes is risky and not recommended at all. You may feel comfortable at first, but later your feet will get tired and start straining. Your bare feet may easily slip off the pedals or make you miss them. The feet do not have the same braking force as shoes and will not generate enough safe driving friction. The feet will also have injuries like burns or blisters since they have no protection.

Is it better to drive with or without shoes?

Driving with shoes is always better than doing so barefeet. Here’s why.

• The clutch may require heavy pressure that the feet can’t apply
• In case of an accident, appropriate shoes will offer protection from injuries, unlike bare feet.
• Your feet can slip off the pedal since they have no grip.
• Feet also sweat and become wet, making the pedals slippery.
• You need to apply more energy to push the pedal when barefoot than when with shoes.
• Repeated use of the clutch can cause cramps or spasms, which is painful, reducing your vehicle’s control efficiency.

Conclusion

Crash avoidance and bringing the car to a sudden stop requires effective brakes and the ability to react swiftly and apply sufficient pressure on the brake pedal. This reaction depends on the kind of shoes you are wearing. Go for comfortable, lightweight, thin soles with traction, breathable shoes for safe driving. Again, avoid driving barefoot as it has more associated risks.