Massive Takata Recall Puts Millions of Drivers on Alert Over Air Bag Safety

If you haven’t yet, it might be time to start familiarizing yourself with the parts of your vehicle, as well as the brands that make them. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) just announced another air bag recall. This time, tens of millions of vehicles are under a Do Not Drive warning because the bags are not operating as designed. If your vehicle is included in this Takata air bag recall, you’ll need to get it repaired immediately; if you don’t you’re at serious risk of injury or even death.

Why Is There a Takata Air Bag Recall?

Per the NHTSA announcement, the issue is somewhat weather related.”Long-term exposure to high heat and humidity can cause these air bags to explode when deployed,” the brief warns. “Such explosions have caused injuries and deaths.”

This isn’t the first time Takata air bags have faced scrutiny. There was also a large recall of Takata air bags back in 2019. To avoid any confusion about who is and isn’t in danger, the NHTSA clarifies that “unlike the air bag inflators in the larger Takata recalls, this recall involves non-azide driver inflators.” So even if you already dealt with a similar issue, you’re not necessarily out of the water. Play it safe until you know for sure.

Who’s Affected?

The Do Not Drive warning affects tens of millions of vehicles including:

• 2002-2003 Acura 3.2 TL
• 2003 Acura 3.2CL
• 2000-2006 BMW 3 Series (E46) including M3
• 2000-2003 BMW 5 Series (E39) including M5
• 2000-2004 BMW X5s (E53)
• 2007–2009 Chrysler Aspen
• 2005-2015 Chrysler 300
• 2005–2011 Dodge Dakota
• 2005-2010 Dodge Magnum
• 2005-2015 Dodge Charger
• 2005-2014 Dodge Challenger
• 2004–2009 Dodge Durango
• 2003–2010 Dodge Ram
• 2003 Dodge Ram 1500
• 2004-2011 Ford Rangers
• 2005-2006 GT
• 2005-2014 Mustang
• 2006-2012 Fusion
• 2006-2012 Lincoln MKZ/Zephyr
• 2006-2012 Mercury Milan
• 2007-2010 Edge
• 2007-2010 Lincoln MKX
• 2001-2002 Honda Accord
• 2001-2002 Honda Civic
• 2002 Honda CR-V
• 2002 Honda Odyssey
• 2003 Honda Pilot
• 2002-2003 Infiniti QX4s
• 2007–2016 Jeep Wrangler
• 2004-2009 Mazda B-Series
• 2003-2013 Mazda6
• 2006-2007 MazdaSpeed6
• 2004-2011 RX-8
• 2004-2006 MPV
• 2007-2012 CX-7
• 2007-2015 CX-9
• 2006–2009 Mitsubishi Raider
• 2002-2006 Nissan Sentras
• 2002-2004 Nissan Pathfinders
• 2003-2004 Pontiac Vibes
• 2004-2005 Toyota RAV4s
• 2003-2004 Corollas, including Matrix

Is There a Fix?

The NHTSA says that if you own one of the vehicles on the list, you can confirm that yours needs repair through their Recalls Lookup page. Search with your vehicle identification number (VIN) and you should be able to see immediately if there’s a Do Not Drive warning or an outstanding recall. If so, the organization urges you to “immediately call your dealer to schedule a free repair. Replacement parts for these vehicles are available.”

Sources

Takata Recall Spotlight, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 2026.

Critical Do Not Drive Warning for Certain Vehicles with Takata Air Bags, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 2026.

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Are Today’s LED Headlights Too Bright for Safe Driving?

I have been driving and working on cars since before I had a driver’s license. In almost 60 years, I have witnessed tremendous advances in vehicle safety and technology. Our cars have been transformed into highly computerized, efficient vehicles with advanced driver assistance and safety features, cleaner powertrains, and dramatically increased reliability.

One of the more controversial safety aspects of modern cars is the use of LED headlights. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, “Driving at night is three times as risky as driving during the day.” LED headlights are brighter than previous type headlights and greatly improve driving safety by illuminating more of the road in front of us, helping to avoid an accident. However, the intense output of modern LED headlights can pose a danger by blinding drivers coming in the opposite direction, particularly on dark, hilly and curved roads.

This is especially true for older drivers, like me. The blinding glare from LED headlights can be so bad it keeps me from driving at night. Read along as experts in the field explain why modern LED headlight technology has improved driving conditions but has created new risks.

All “Light” Measurements Aren’t the Same

Just to clear things up:

• Use the lumen output rating rather than candlepower to compare the brightness of two light bulbs.
• Lumens are the total amount of light produced by a light source in all directions; a light bulb.
• Candlepower measures the intensity of a light source in one direction; a flashlight.
• Kelvin (K) is not related to lumens or candlepower, as it measures the color temperature of light. For reference, 5500 K is equal to the color temperature of sunlight at noon.

Why Are LED Headlights So Much Brighter Than Older Headlights?

Modern LED headlights produce a much tighter-focused whiter beam that mimics daylight. This makes them seem brighter even when their lumen output isn’t significantly higher. Their fixed optics and higher color temperature, up to 15,000K, easily light up road signs and dark roads, but can also create glare in the eyes of drivers coming the opposite way.

Why Are LED Lights the Standard Now?

Manufacturers switched to LED headlights because they’re more efficient, longer lasting, compact and fit nicely into modern headlight designs. Modern LED headlamps also allow manufacturers to design cars with less drag and different body styles that help increase fuel economy.

They also use far less power than halogens. Halogens typically draw 55 to 65 Watts per bulb (110 to 130 Watts total for two headlights), with most of that energy lost as heat. LEDs typically draw 15 to 30 Watts per headlight module (30 to 60 Watts total for two headlights) while creating clear, sharp light output.

How LED Headlights Work vs. Older Headlights

LED headlights work by passing electricity through many small diodes (semiconductors or microchips) rather than a traditional filament found in halogen or incandescent headlamps. The diode converts electrical energy into a bright, white light through a process called electroluminescence, which releases electrical energy in the form of photons—or light energy. LED headlamps throw a brighter, longer, wider light that helps increase road visibility. On older headlights, electricity heats tungsten filaments, causing them to glow. Most of the electrical energy becomes heat, not light.

• Halogen headlights are conventional incandescent light bulbs that use a tungsten filament housed in a quartz glass bulb filled with halogen gas. Typical output is between 700-1,200 lumens and a yellowish 3,200K.
• HID (High‑Intensity Discharge) headlights do not use filaments. They generate a controlled electrical arc inside a glass, xenon-filled gas capsule. Typical output is between 3,000-4,500 lumens and a whiter 4,300K to 6,000K.
• Incandescent (sealed) headlights also use a tungsten filament, but use an inert gas, such as nitrogen. Typical output is between 700 to 1,200 lumens and a warm yellow 2,700-3,000K.

Why LED Light Feels Harsher to Oncoming Drivers

The optics built into LED headlight capsule/lens assemblies (CLA) are precisely designed and shaped to cleanly slice the light beam in two, creating an acute horizontal line (called the cutoff). Light below the cutoff illuminates the road. Everything above the cutoff is deliberately dark. The sharp, concentrated light at the cutoff can feel harsh to oncoming drivers.

Additionally, according to a recent study by Chaiking Trial Group, although the cutoff is engineered to reduce glare, “The intensity of the light at the cutoff can make the boundary appear harsh or piercing, especially to older drivers whose eyes recover more slowly from bright light.” The study also notes that this contributes to “Disproportionately high number of fatalities due to headlight glare suffered by drivers aged 65 and older.”

Are LED Headlights Blinding Other Drivers?

Technically, no. Although glare complaints have increased, LED headlights are not designed to blind anyone. However, when a full-size pickup or SUV with higher-mounted headlights comes opposite to a compact or sedan that sits lower to the ground, the searingly bright LED beam is at the other driver’s eye level.

Dirty, cloudy, or oxidized, composite headlights or “any type of headlights that are even slightly misaligned can make the glare worse,” said ASE Master Technician Joe Simes. According to Ian Chaikin of Chaiking Trial Group, “Many drivers of all ages find headlight glare to be at least an annoyance, and at worst, a potential danger factor.” To help address this problem, manufacturers are equipping cars with adaptive and self-leveling LED headlights and automatic high-beams that illuminate the road ahead without blinding other road users, including cyclists and pedestrians.

Are LED Headlights Safe?

Yes. LED headlights greatly improve visibility, giving drivers additional reaction time. As LED headlights became standard, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) developed its own headlight rating program. According to the Chaiking study, IIHS first ratings in 2016 showed, “Only one out of over 80 headlight systems evaluated was rated ‘good’.” Based on 2025 ratings, 51 percent of the headlights tested by IIHs were rated ‘good’. 16 percent were ‘marginal’ or ‘poor’, compared to 82% in 2016.

“Safety depends on proper aim, clean, clear lenses, a clean, fog-free windshield and lights that meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards and [are] legal for on-road [use],” Simes added.

What the Research and Safety Data Say

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) (which maintains nationwide crash data between 2019-2023), road crashes at night and in non-lighted areas accounted for 46,154 fatalities. 446 of those were due to glare hindering the driver’s vision. “Out of around 24 million total crashes, fewer than 150,000 had glare coded as a contributing factor, and a far smaller fraction were both coded for glare and occurred at night,” reported the IIHS.

However, according to CBTNews, IIHS headlight safety ratings have unintended consequences. Brighter headlights often score higher in controlled tests giving manufacturers strong incentives to increase brightness levels to earn better ratings and a competitive edge. Overall, the data show that the safety benefits of high-quality, well-adjusted LED headlights far offset the issues linked with glare from overly bright LED headlights. In fact, IIHS data found no indication that headlight improvements have led to an increase in glare-related crashes.

Federal Headlight Brightness Standards

According to Chaikin Study, the Official U.S. headlight standards for minimum and maximum brightness have been unchanged since 1997. All headlights in the U.S. must comply with FMVSS 108 (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards), which sets requirements for light intensity, beam patterns, color, and durability. Headlights must emit white or soft yellow light and be properly aimed to avoid blinding other drivers.

There are no exact minimum or maximum federal output ratings for headlights. For example, FMVSS output for a low beam is, “Few hundred candela straight ahead so drivers can see down the road.” While high beams are required to produce several thousand candela straight ahead for long‑range visibility, with a limit of 75,000 candela at the center point [of the bulb].

75,000 candela doesn’t mean 75,000 lumens, Kelvin or Watts. For example, efficient optics of an LED headlight CLA concentrate the light of a 1,500 to 2,000‑lumen LED high beam into a tight, extremely strong, bright narrow beam. Factory-installed LED headlights are legal because they meet these federal standards.

“The PennDot Vehicle Inspection Regulations state, 7,500 candle power is the minimum for a low beam and minimum candle power not less than 10,000 candle power for the high beans” said Simes. In PA, the maximum total for head lamps and auxiliary lamps is 150,000 candlepower

Can You Adjust Your LED Headlights to Reduce Glare?

Yes. Most headlamp CLA can be vertically adjusted. Simes noted, “Even a slight turn can make huge changes to the light’s direction. Make sure your [car is] on level ground, set tire pressure, ensure there is no excess weight in the passenger compartment or trunk/frunk before adjusting.” If the vehicle has bubble levels built-in to the CLA, always adjust them first. Also, to help decrease glare for oncoming drivers, check suspension height and avoid aftermarket “retrofit” LED bulbs.

LED Headlights vs. Halogen: Which Is Safer for Your Car?

LED headlights are safe. Although LED headlamps do have a few drawbacks, they offer many advantages over other type headlamps. While halogens are less likely to cause glare to oncoming traffic, LED headlights are efficient, long-lasting and provide excellent forward visibility. The key to making LEDs safe for oncoming drivers remains proper aim, clean, clear headlight housings and using bulbs designed for your specific headlight assembly.

FAQs

What can I do to help reduce headlight glare?

Besides what is mentioned above, be sure to clean and check your windshield wipers are clean and in good shape, and your washer fluid is full. Dim the dashboard lights and adjust the rearview and outside mirrors to prevent getting blinded by the car behind you. Make sure prescription glasses are clean or try a pair of anti-reflective glasses to help lessen glare. Even though I had my cataracts replaced, I still find it difficult driving at night, especially in the rain, and reduced my speed when facing oncoming traffic.

Experts

Joe Simes has over 20 years of experience as an ASE and Toyota Master Technician. Joe’s insight as PennDOT certified emissions and safety inspection instructor and inspector gives him a unique perspective on everything headlights and headlight adjustment. Joe also served as the deputy fire chief and training officer (retired) for Montgomery County, PA. (Phone and email communication Apr 16, 2026)

Ian Chaikin is the founder Chaikin Trial Group. Ian earned his degree in Banking and Finance from Hofstra University in 2001 and his law degree from the Maurice A. Deane School of Law at Hofstra University in 2004. He has extensive experience in vehicle accident investigation, analyzing evidence and identifying negligence. (Phone and email communication Apr 20, 2026)

Resources

CarLightVision: “How to Reduce Headlight Glare for Safer Night Driving: Tips & Maintenance Guide” (Apr 17, 2025)

CBTNews: “Modern car headlights are too bright – here’s why they are dangerous”

Chaikin Trial Group: “How Dangerous Are Modern LED Headlights?” (Apr 14, 2026)

IIHS: “Headlight complaints abound, but glare-related crashes haven’t increased” (Oct 2025)

IIHS: “Headlight glare in police-reported crash data: prevalence, contributing factors, and potential effects” (Oct 2025)

Kelly Blue Book (KBB): “What Are Auto-Leveling Headlights?” (May16, 2024)

LegalClarity: “DOT Headlight Regulations: Requirements and Penalties” (Apr 1, 2026)

Matt Clamp, at Scrap Car Comparison

NHTSA, FARS: “Detailing the Factors Behind Traffic Fatalities on our Roads” (Apr 14, 2026)

State Farm: “Night driving and headlight glare” (Mar 10, 2025)

U.S. National Archives, Code of Federal Regulations: “Title 49, Subtitle B, Chapter V, Part 571, Subpart B, § 571.108” (Amended Apr10, 2026)

USAToday: “Some LED headlights can be painfully bright. Are they legal?” (Feb 15, 2026)

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What the Lincoln Memorial’s Algae Problem Teaches Us About Water Feature Maintenance

By now, most of us have seen images of the soupy-green colored Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. The algae bloom came just days after the more than $14 million restoration was completed. Ironically, the project began when President Trump ordered the bottom to be painted “American flag blue” to transform it from what he described as “filthy” into a “beautiful” site for the country’s 250th anniversary celebrations.

It’s yet to be seen whether the sliminess will recede before the 4th of July; however, the calamity does offer some important insights for those of us with water features at home.

“The lesson is pretty familiar,” says home maintenance expert William Boynton. “Green water can show up fast once summer conditions kick in. That does not always mean the whole system is broken, just that water conditions shifted enough for algae to take advantage.”

Here are some takeaways from the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool for how you can prevent algae from taking over, and why water features are so hard to maintain in the summer.

What Went Wrong With the Reflecting Pool Renovation?

An Interior Department spokesperson told CNN that it was caused by “residual algae from the supply lines, which had been sitting dormant for eight weeks.” But, many experts have suggested that it’s likely more complicated than that.

Other underlying causes could include which water source was used for refilling the pool, the removal of beneficial bacteria and biofilm, a streak of hot weather and the new darker paint color, which absorbs more sunlight and heat.

Causes of Algae in Water Features

Algae thrives in shallow water where there’s ample sunlight, which is why it’s especially difficult to maintain water features in the the summer. It’s growth is furthered by poor water circulation and nutrients from fertilizer runoff, bird poop and the breakdown of pollen, leaves and grass clippings.

Is Algae Dangerous?

It can be. Besides looking and smelling bad, certain forms of algae are toxic. More commonly, though, the biggest issues at home are clogged filters, damaged pumps and slippery surfaces.

If your water feature uses chlorine, algae can also consume that, allowing more harmful things to grow, which pose health concerns like E. Coli, Legionnaires’ Disease and Norovirus, says water monitoring expert Justin Miller.

Another downside of algae is the ecological damage it can cause by reducing dissolved oxygen levels. “These declines can be so extreme that they kill all fish and other beneficial aquatic life living within your feature,” says home-buying expert Mike Otranto.

How to Keep a Home Water Feature Clean

Algae is a fact of nature, so your goal shouldn’t be to make conditions impossible for it to grow, but rather to keep the water environment balanced, so it can’t take over, says Boynton. “Algae is not always a sign that a water feature is broken. It is often just a sign that nature found an opening,” he says.

That means it’s imperative to say proactive about preventing algae by:

• Skimming out leaves and debris, before they break down in the water.
• Cleaning the filter and pump baskets, at least once a week.
• Keeping water levels high enough to not strain the pump.
• Brushing or cleaning surfaces before slime forms.
• Blocking sunlight with a shade sail or water plants like lily pads, which also take up extra nutrients.
• Ensuring good circulation, so the water gets amply filtered.
• Getting rid of stagnant areas.

Monitoring water chemistry and adding algicides can also be helpful, but circulation and debris management are really the keys, says Boynton, especially since chemicals can be harmful to fish, pets, kids and ecosystems in general. “A mistake I see people make is treating algae like a chemistry-only problem,” he says. “Since algae likes warm, still, nutrient-rich water, if the water is not moving well, or leaves and sludge are sitting at the bottom, chemicals are only going to buy you time.”

What Homeowners Can Learn From the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool

No matter how much money and engineering go into a project, there is no substitute for understanding biology. “Aesthetically pleasing layers of blue paint can’t stop nature from doing what it wants to do,” says Otranto.

So, keeping a home water feature from turning green means both not underestimating the power of nature, as well as working with nature to create a balance. That can be particularly hard in the summer, but ultimately it comes down to staying on top all of the small maintenance habits, before it’s too late and water starts to look bad, says Boynton.

“The biggest lesson is that water features are living systems, even when they are manmade and highly designed,” he says. “Homeowners sometimes think a pond, fountain or reflecting pool will mostly take care of itself once the equipment is installed, but it usually does not work that way.”

About the Experts

• William Boynton is founder of HomeScore, a homeowner intelligence platform which analyzes home systems and maintenance trends to help homeowners make better decisions about their property.
• Justin Miller is co-founder and CEO of General Galactic Systems Inc., a creator of smart water monitoring products for consumer and commercial pools and spas, including Crystal Water Monitor. www.generalgalactic.io
• Mike Otranto is owner of Wake County Home Buyers in North Carolina and has worked in real estate for 15 years, helping people buy and sell houses, plus perform repairs and renovations.

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The Simple Upgrade I Used to Protect My Truck Bed From the Elements

Install the bulkhead seal

The bulkhead seal is the foam strip that sits between the bulkhead and the header bar. This prevents water from entering and can help level the header bar to sit inline with the side rails.

• At the front of the truck bed, clean the top of the bulkhead with soap and water to rid of any dirt. You can also just wipe it clean with rubbing alcohol.
• Take the bulkhead seal and attach it to the top of the bulkhead. Then, work your way to the other end, sealing as you go. Trim any excess seal.
• Press down firmly on the seal along its entire length to ensure a watertight bond. Remove the protective film from the top of the foam seal before proceeding.

Install the side rails

The side rails are usually labeled D (driver) and P (passenger) near the front corner cap.

• Place the side rails according to the label on the corner cap, on top of the bed rail. Position the corner cap at the front of the truck.
• Turn over the side rail. Locate the foam pad with four detachable corner weather seals. Peel and press one of the larger corner seals into the bottom corner of the front corner cap. Repeat on the other front corner cap.
• Flip them back over and place them on the bed rails. Ensure that the weather seal is flush and flat against the bed rail.
• Align the inside edge of the side rails with the inside edge of the bed rail. The end of the side rail should align with the back of the bed rail, where the inside of the tailgate sits when closed.
• Place three clamps on each side. One at the front, middle and back of the side rails.
• Tighten the side rail to the bed rail with the clamps by hand, as you will need to adjust the side rails later to fit properly. Connect the clamp’s teeth to the small channel grooves on the side rail, and secure the bottom of the clamp under the bed rail.

Install the header bar

The header bar contains the vinyl cover assembly.

• Set the header bar on top of the bulkhead seal and center it. Ensure that the straps for the cover hang down and are not caught between the bulkhead seal and header bar. Align the ends evenly on both sides.
• Insert one of the connecting corner caps of the side rail into the open cavity of the header bar. You may need to loosen the clamps slightly to connect them. There is no click or locking mechanism when you connect the corner cap to the header bar, so check that the header bar is flush and square at the connection. Repeat on the other side rail.
• Ensure the header bar is centered on the bulkhead with the side rails connected before moving on.

  

Unroll and align

As mentioned in previous steps, you will need to adjust the side rail clamps to ensure a secure and aligned fit.

• With the cover and header bar centered on the bulkhead, unroll the vinyl cover slowly back towards the tailgate.
• As you unroll, align the side rails so the cover’s cross bars sit between them. Move the side rail clamps, if needed, so the support bars do not rest on them.
• When you reach the tailgate, drop the end of the attached tail rail into place so it clicks into the side rail at the tailgate. There should be approximately a 1/8-in. gap between the tail rail and the side rail to allow it to properly latch.

Secure the clamps

Tighten all six clamps with a socket wrench.

• Unlatch and roll up the cover. Use your socket wrench to tighten the end clamps near the tailgate on both sides.
• Double-check that the header bar is still centered and fully connected at the corners. Then tighten the front clamps near the bulkhead.
• Move down to the middle clamps and tighten.
• Roll out the tonneau cover back to the tailgate and latch it in place to test the fit.

Final adjustments

• Unlatch the tail rail by pulling the cables downward at both ends. Roll up to expose the bottom corners of the tail rail.
• Place the last two small foam corner seals at the corners of the tail rail. Align the corner seal to the corners of the tail rail. Latch the cover and close the tailgate, ensuring it doesn’t hit the tailgate.
• To eliminate wrinkles, starting from the front, peel up the velcro edge on the side rail. Pull it taut and back towards the tailgate. Velcro it back down and work your way down to the tailgate.
• Switch over to the other side and repeat.

FAQ

Does a tonneau cover improve gas mileage?

Yes, but this also depends on the type of truck bed tonneau cover you have installed. Tonneau covers reduce drag in your truck, making it easier for you to reach your designated speed. Soft folding and soft roll-up tonneau covers are lightweight and don’t add much weight to the truck. As for heavier-duty tonneau covers, they will not improve your mpg as they add significantly more weight to your truck.

How is “tonneau” pronounced?

“Tonneau” is pronounced tuh-NOH

How should I clean a tonneau cover?

Wash your tonneau cover at a self-service car wash station or hand-wash it at home. Avoid automated car wash stations with brushes, as they can damage your tonneau cover and may shift it over time. If you must take it to a car wash, use a touch-free car wash station, which uses pressurized water and detergent rather than brushes.

RELATED:

• Do You Know What That Little Button on Your Seat Belt Is For?
• What Those Lines on Your Backup Camera Really Tell You
• Here’s What The Small Panel On Your Car’s Front Bumper Is For

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The Two States That Don’t Allow Hands-Free Gas Pump Clips, and Why

In most of the United States, gas pump clips are a common find at your local gas station. They make life easier; you can fill up your tank while washing your windows or running inside the store to grab a snack. But, as Michael Frank from Jalopnik reports, there are still two states that don’t allow these clips.

Which States Don’t Allow Gas Pump Clips

Per Frank, the two states that don’t allow gas pump clips are Rhode Island and New York. In both cases, the laws cite fire safety as the reasoning. However, these fire safety considerations vary by state.

New York’s codes are so confusing that while the clips aren’t outright banned across the board anymore, according to Frank, gas station owners are reluctant to add them even when they are allowed. Rhode Island, on the other hand, has hardly touched its laws despite safety technology rapidly advancing.

Are There Any Plans to Change the Laws?

With only two holdouts, it seems that if other states have figured out how to mitigate safety concerns, then Rhode Island and New York can one day remove their bans. But changing a law is a convoluted process.

Rhode Island

As of now, it doesn’t appear that Rhode Island has a set timeline for updating the law. The closest the state has come at this point was carving out an exception to its ban. Gas clips were allowed on stage II vapor recovery nozzles, which are designed to collect the vapors that might otherwise escape the gas tank. Alex Kuffner of The Providence Journal reports that in 1993, the state required all gas stations to have these nozzles.

However, automotive technology was changing at the same time, and more and more cars came with their own vapor recovery systems. By 2006, these systems were so prolific that the ones at the pump were “redundant.” Kuffner states that “in 2015, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency approved Rhode Island’s plan requiring all stage II nozzles at gas stations to be decommissioned by Dec. 22, 2017.” The law has not been updated, however.

New York

Frank attributes New York’s dearth of gas clips to the fact that its “fire-suppression laws are so confusing that gas station owners have avoided updating their pumps.” As recently as 2025, New York lawmakers have pushed for revisions to the code to make clear allowances for these clips. State Senator Joseph Griffo, pushed for “Senate Bill 7418 [which] would authorize self-service gas stations to allow for hands-free gas dispensing by installing hold open clips on gasoline and diesel fuel dispensing nozzles.”

Sources

Why These Two States Still Don’t Have Hold-Open Clips On Gas Pumps, Jalopnik, 2026.

Why RI is one of the last states to ban hands-free fueling, The Providence Journal, 2026.

Griffo introduces bill allowing hands-free gas pumps, The New York State Senate, 2025.

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The Simple Method I Used to Remove Tint From My Car Windows

Heat the tint for removal

Heating the tint softens the adhesive beneath, making the film much easier to peel off in one piece rather than shredding into tiny, frustrating strips.

• Roll the window down about a third of the way to expose the top edge of the tint.
• Using your heat gun, apply heat to a small area at the top of the tint where you plan to start peeling. Pull the heat away once the area is warm. You’ll likely need to keep applying heat throughout the peeling process to keep the adhesive soft and workable.
• Use a utility knife or your fingernails to start lifting the tint from the heated area.

Peeling the film

The goal is to remove the tint in as few pieces as possible. Going slow and working evenly is the difference between one clean pull and a half hour of picking at shredded tint film with a razor blade scraper.

• Lift the tint from the heated area and work your way across the top of the window until you reach the corner.
• Peel the corner of the window slowly off at a diagonal — this helps prevent the film from tearing.
• Take your time and don’t force the tint off. Work the top and sides down evenly and slowly, applying more heat as needed to keep the adhesive releasing cleanly.
• When you reach the point where the window stops, roll it back up completely and continue working your way down.
• As you reach the bottom, pull the tint out of the window seam, starting at one corner, then work across until the film is completely removed.

Clean the window

Even a clean peel leaves adhesive residue on the glass. This step returns the window to bare glass, so it’s ready for new tint or a clear, streak-free finish.

• Spray the window with cleaner, then use a razor blade scraper to remove any remaining adhesive residue. Rubbing alcohol also works well to help loosen sticky spots.
• Continue scraping until all the adhesive is removed, then go over the glass with a non-scratch scouring pad for a final deep clean.
• Roll the window down to clean the top edge that’s been hidden by the frame.
• Spray the edges and bottom seam to flush out any remaining dirt and residue. Roll the window back up.
• Spray the entire window again, then wipe clean with a squeegee.

Remove tint from a fixed window

The process is the same as the roll-down window, with a few differences.

• Fixed windows like quarter panels have a dot matrix border — the band of black ceramic dots along the edges. This coating makes it harder to see where the tint starts. Use a flashlight at the top corner to find the edge of the film.
• Apply heat to the top corner. Use a utility knife to lift the corner — you may need small pliers if you can’t get enough of an edge to grip with your fingers.
• With the corner lifted, pull diagonally until the top starts to release, then use your other hand to work across the top. Apply heat as needed.
• Work your way down evenly. Unlike a roll-down window, the tint on a fixed window usually isn’t tucked into the window seam — the dot-matrix coating along the bottom and edges makes it unnecessary. So when you reach the bottom, the film should pull off cleanly without needing to work it out of a channel.
• Clean the glass the same way as the roll-down window — spray, scrape, scrub pad, squeegee. Be careful not to scratch or scrape off the dot matrix coating when using the razor blade scraper. Let the cleaner do the work and keep the blade angle low against the glass.

Check your work

Inspect all windows to make sure no adhesive residue remains and that no scratches occurred from scraping or scrubbing. Do a courtesy clean of the door panels and door frames to wipe up any cleaner or residue runoff from the removal process.

FAQ

Will removing tint damage windows?

It shouldn’t if you use the right technique. Use a clean stainless-steel blade in your scraper, keep it wet with cleaner, and hold the blade at a low angle flat against the glass. A dull, nicked, or dry blade is what causes scratches — not the scraping itself. Take your time and let the cleaner and heat do most of the work.

Does tint devalue a car?

Generally, no, but depending on who the buyer is and where you live, it can determine if tint will value and devalue your car. Some buyers like the tint for the benefits of having tinted windows but others stay away from it due to the tint laws of the state they live in and the difficulty of driving at night.

Can you remove tint from factory-tinted glass?

No, because of the dye and pigments embedded into the tint. You can apply tint or remove tint on the glass, but not when it is embedded.

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8 Budget-Friendly Ways to Refresh Your Home While You Save for a Remodel

Give Your Space a Fresh Coat of Paint

Painting is one of the simplest ways to refresh your interior—and it makes a major difference. Committing to one light, bright color—Benjamin Moore’s Chantilly Lace—throughout our space was one of the first design decisions we made, and we’re so glad we did.

“If you’ve purchased a new home and have a limited budget for immediate improvements, I always strongly recommend you start with painting,” explains Lauren Vallario, CEO and Principal Designer at Lauren Vallario Designs, Inc. “Painting can be a messy job, but it is one of the few that even an inexperienced homeowner can tackle themselves. It is also much easier to do right before you move in without all of your furniture and belongings in the home. The key to a good paint job is quality paint and precision. Consider investing in a good paint and good tools.”

Vallario says you can spend roughly $75 per gallon of paint, so if you aim to keep your spending at $500 or less, you can paint several rooms without blowing your budget (depending on the size of your home).

Keep in mind that doing your research is key. For instance, prepping your walls correctly and taking your time will help you obtain a more professional look overall.

Reevaluate Furniture That No Longer Suits Your Vibe

Sometimes, the difference between a drab sofa and a more aesthetically pleasing look can be as simple as investing in new throw pillows and blankets. Think about a color palette that will work, and even bring a picture of your couch with you as you shop.

Take it from a HomeGoods regular shopper and connoisseur: It may take a few trips to the store—and maybe even a few returns—but there’s an improved version for everything. The last time I went throw pillow shopping at HomeGoods, I actually bought two full sets I absolutely fell in love with—then styled each on my sectional to see what worked best. The set I almost left behind ended up being truly exceptional—very Serena & Lily-esque, for a mere fraction of the cost.

By going this route, I spent roughly $175 on a collection of eight throw pillows and a new blanket, as opposed to $3,000+ on a brand-new couch. A small swap like this has the power to completely transform a living area.

In addition, consider painting any accent furniture pieces that seem tired to give them a new life. You’d be amazed what a fun new paint color and whimsical hardware can do to a vanity, buffet, or TV console. Whether you will replace them at the right time or plan on keeping them for the long run, this small investment won’t go unnoticed.

Replace Lighting Fixtures

Replacing lighting fixtures is an expense you will likely have down the line that can be addressed now—if you know the style you want. In the meantime, this tip updates and improves the look of any room, whether it’s dreamy bathroom sconces (which can cost just $49 each) or a chic chandelier hanging over your kitchen table.

“When homes change hands, sellers often tend to replace good light fixtures with really basic ones,” Vallario says. “Consider changing fixtures that [your guests] are likely to see upon entering the home (foyer lighting, hallways, etc). Great lighting can really set the tone. If you’re trying to keep the budget to $500 or less, you may only be able to replace one or two fixtures, but that can easily make a big difference.”

If swapping fixtures isn’t an option, consider changing the bulbs to create a brighter or softer ambiance.

Swap Out Kitchen Hardware

Hardware is another area where you can let your personality shine. Replacing kitchen cabinet knobs and pulls is a seamless way to upgrade the overall look. Plus, a set of 10 sleek brushed brass pulls costs around $51 for a set of 10, as opposed to opting for new custom cabinets, which can be roughly $18/SF to $150/SF. Generally speaking, Niemela says that hardware can range anywhere from $3 to $20+ each, so prepare to budget around $75 to $600 for the average kitchen or bathroom.

“The first thing you want to do before you purchase new hardware is to measure the center-to-center holes of your existing hardware. The hardware needs to match the same size as your existing, or you will have to patch, paint, and redrill in order to replace it — which will certainly break the budget,” Vallario explains. “I always recommend doing a basic drawing of your cabinets and notating the sizes so you can easily know what size goes where and count how many you need to order. Once you have them, it is really simple to unscrew the old hardware and screw in the new ones. This is a project that you can accomplish in an hour or less.”

Tweak Your Furniture Layout

If you can re-work the layout of your bedroom furniture, you’ll feel like you’re sleeping in a brand-new space. Rather than completely remodeling a bedroom, you can easily work with what you have and shop with a budget of $250 for a fresh comforter, throw pillows, nightstands, and curtains to turn your bedroom into an oasis you look forward to retreating to at the end of the day. For instance, this comforter and sham set from Wayfair costs $45, a set of two rattan bedside tables from Target costs $150, and you can snag breezy semi-sheer curtains (set of two) from Birch Lane for $32.

“One of the biggest things homeowners overlook is simply decluttering and improving furniture layout. Sometimes the home itself isn’t the problem—it’s overcrowded rooms, poor lighting, and too much visual clutter,” Jeri Goodkin Dausey, Certified General Contractor & Certified Building Inspector at Violation Clinic, says.

Splurge on the “Little Things”

It’s easy to get trapped in the same old boring habits. Splurging on a few “little things” can make a big difference and bring daily joy to your space. For instance, head to Bath & Body Works for foaming hand soap for your bathroom, treat yourself to a bouquet of fresh florals each week for your dining table, or pick out just the right scented candles for every season—and light them regularly.

Niemela recommends updating small things in your master and/or guest bathroom—rather than a total reno that can cost upwards $10,000 to $80,000+—but do it as a complete package. This means including things like your bathroom mirror, faucet, towel holder, and vanity light.

“Expect to spend $450 to $1,200 for this upgrade,” he says. “Full bathroom remodel prices could range from $10,000 to $80,000+. Plus, accessories, depending on how fancy you go.”

Make sure to turn off the water under your sink before getting started. Niemela recommends installing your new faucet with the old faucet hole spacing and patching the wall where the holes from your old faucet were. Another rule of thumb? Hang your mirror so that it’s positioned 60 to 66 inches from the ground. In addition, keep metal finishes consistent throughout.

“Pro tip: Behind some old sinks, the plumbing supply lines and drain pipes can become rotten. Anticipate spending another $75 to $200 for these parts if needed,” Niemela adds.

Use Peel-And-Stick Backsplash, Shiplap, or Molding

Peel-and-stick applications like backsplash, shiplap, wainscoting, or molding are fun projects you can tackle at home—and many brands offer kits that make the process easy. For instance, you can elevate the look of a room with peel-and-stick shiplap wall paneling ($66) for a coastal vibe, or opt for peel-and-stick wainscoting panels ($52) to create an elegant, vintage-esque feel. And rather than completely remodeling your kitchen—which can range anywhere from $30,000 to $150,000—peel-and-stick backsplash is a stellar alternative. This is an affordable solution that will temporarily freshen up your look.

“Use peel and stick wisely. Tile that looks like wood might cost $100 to $300 as a peel-and-stick backsplash,” Niemela tells us. “Laundry room floors, powder room walls, and rental property backsplashes make great places to start since you won’t have to live with it forever. Apply peel-and-stick tile the same way you wrap a gift. Clean the area with a degreaser, wait for it to dry, locate the highest point on the wall, and mark a level line around the room. Start in the corner most people will notice first, and apply the tile with consistent pressure.”

Keep in mind that steam, heat, and texture can wreak havoc on any peel-and-stick tile. In addition, avoid using it in rooms where the humidity is higher, like shower walls.

Update Your Front Door or Porch Aesthetic

According to Vallario, curb appeal can set the tone for the rest of your space.

Opting for a new front door isn’t a major expense—typically starting around $400—and it can give your home’s exterior a new look and personality. It’s also an investment in the future, since it would likely be part of a bigger renovation down the road. If a new door is out of the question, a unique paint color can make a similar statement—and just one quart of paint will get the job done.

Vallario also recommends investing in new planters and florals to flank your front door. You can hang a lush wreath from your door and incorporate lanterns into your setup as well. Snag a new doormat the next time you’re out shopping, too.

Last year, I decided to refresh my front door—which came primed—with a quart of Benjamin Moore’s Fountain Spout, costing me roughly $29. I totally revamped my wreath to coordinate by adding more white and baby blue faux flowers. I’m now totally obsessed with my front porch and spend most of my mornings out there, sipping my coffee.

“Nothing says welcome more than a beautifully decorated front entrance,” she points out.

About The Experts

• Danny Niemela is the Vice President and CFO at ArDan Construction, a luxury home remodeling company in Scottsdale, Arizona. Niemela is also a Licensed Contractor, Professional Remodeler, and the current Board Chairman and former President of the Greater Phoenix Chapter of NARI. He regularly meets with homeowners on budgets for bathroom makeovers, kitchen remodels, and whole-home renovations.
• Lauren Vallario is the CEO and Principal Designer at Lauren Vallario Designs, Inc., a luxury residential design firm based in Stamford, Connecticut. Vallario has been creating functional, timeless designs for more than 15 years throughout the greater Fairfield and Westchester Counties and has earned an A.A.S in Kitchen and Bathroom Design from the Art Institute of Pittsburgh.
• Jeri Goodkin Dausey is a Certified General Contractor and the Founder and CEO at Violation Clinic, a team of trusted experts who resolve building and code violations throughout the state of Florida. Goodkin Dausey is skilled in sustainable design, and single-family homes.

Sources

• “How to Paint a Front Door” (2022)

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The post 8 Budget-Friendly Ways to Refresh Your Home While You Save for a Remodel appeared first on Family Handyman.

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