Michael Frank

Location

Hudson Valley, New York

Expertise

Automotive industry news, Product safety and innovation, Translating automotive minutia

Michael was there when Mercedes-Benz thought Maybach as a stand-alone brand seemed like a good idea, and remembers when Toyota thought Scion would be a hit.
He has been behind the wheel of a Mille Miglia at 100 MPH on the highway and 2 MPH crawling through traffic in Rome, which he recalls as the most thrilling automotive event he's participated in.
Michael is the humble owner of a 1979 Volvo 245 wagon. He believes that old cars teach you to respect new cars, and also to search for the clearest way to explain technology, whether it's brand new or ancient.

Experience

Michael Frank is an automotive writer and editor whose works have been featured in publications such as Forbes, the Wall Street Journal, Outside Magazine, Cool Hunting, Hagerty, TopSpeed, and many others. He also contributes regularly beyond the automotive sector, for publications like Consumer Reports. As both an editor and writer, his default is trying to think like the reader, and to ask what's less known but should be, especially when it comes to the world of automotive news. Also, to heed the wisdom of one of his mentors: "Don't ever take yourself too seriously; people are looking at this stuff on the toilet!"

Education

Michael Frank obtained his bachelor's degree in English literature at the University of Colorado, and received his master's degree from American University.

Jalopnik Editorial Policies

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In pursuit of our mission to provide accurate and ethical coverage, the Jalopnik editorial team consistently fact-checks and reviews site content to provide readers with an informative, entertaining, and engaging experience. Click here for more information on our editorial process.

Stories By Michael Frank

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Jalopnik Explains

Jalopnik Explains By Michael Frank

How You Should Clean Your Car's Touch Screen (And Mistakes You Need To Avoid)

Your car's touch screen is different from your smartphone's screen, and so are the ways you should clean it. Here are the right and wrong ways to get that done.
By Michael Frank Read More
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Jalopnik Explains

Jalopnik Explains By Michael Frank

Why Diesel Engines Last Longer Than Gas Engines

What's the secret to diesel engines usually lasting longer than their gasoline-powered counterparts? To some extent, it comes down to just one word.
By Michael Frank Read More
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Planelopnik

Planelopnik By Michael Frank

Here's How A Plane Can Land Safely With A Flat Tire

If your car gets a flat, you're wise to pull over immediately, or you risk ruining the tire and worse. Pilots aloft, though, can't just stop flying.
By Michael Frank Read More
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Jalopnik Explains

Jalopnik Explains By Michael Frank

Why Are Diesel Taxes Higher Than Gas Taxes In Some States (Especially California) And Lower In Others?

Higher taxes help make diesel cost more than gas in some states, but it's less harshly taxed in others. The reasons lie in different states' tax philosophies.
By Michael Frank Read More
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Jalopnik Explains

Jalopnik Explains By Michael Frank

Why These Two States Still Don't Have Hold-Open Clips On Gas Pumps

Even when it's minus 20 out and your hand will stick to the lever, there are states that still won't let you pump gas without continually holding the handle.
By Michael Frank Read More