How We Research

Start with the reader’s decision

Research begins with a specific problem or choice. We define the surface, vehicle condition, environment, budget, available time, and skill level that may change the answer.

Use the strongest available source

We prioritize:

1. Product manufacturers and vehicle manufacturers
2. Official instructions, technical data sheets, and owner’s manuals
3. U.S. government and regulatory guidance
4. Industry standards organizations
5. Credible automotive-care references
6. Independent sources used for cross-checking

Manufacturer claims are treated as claims, not as independent proof. A feature only becomes a recommendation when its use case and limits are clear.

Compare on meaningful criteria

Product types are compared by the work they require and the outcome they can reasonably support. Criteria may include surface compatibility, process risk, setup time, cleanup, storage, power or water needs, replaceable parts, documentation quality, and the user’s existing tool system.

We do not use invented scores or universal winners. Different readers can reach different conclusions from the same verified facts.

Separate fact from judgment

Published specifications and manual instructions are identified as sourced facts. Statements such as “better for apartment parking” or “not worth the setup for one vehicle” are editorial judgments based on an explicit scenario.

Document evidence limits

When Caritine has not performed first-hand testing, the page says so. Draft commercial articles remain unpublished when product records, comparison criteria, external links, or original analysis are incomplete.

Revisit old work

Important sources and external links are checked before publication and during major updates. The article’s last-verified date records the latest evidence review, not a claim that every product remains unchanged forever.