A burnout is pretty easy to do, but it's a lot easier with a line-lock. A line-lock allows you to lock the front brakes independently of the rear brakes, so the car stays put while the tires smolder.

Brakes locking up without warning? Congratulations, you've just experienced the automotive equivalent of your pants getting caught on a doorknob. One minute you're cruising along, singing off-key to ...

Dear Tom and Ray: My 17-year-old niece is interested in a 2007 Toyota Matrix, but it does not have anti-lock brakes (ABS). She may be heading to college in a place where it snows. Is it critical to ...