KVAL - News - Consumer

AP IMPACT: Clunker pickups traded for new pickups

The most common deals under the government's $3 billion Cash for Clunkers program, aimed at putting more fuel-efficient cars on the road, replaced old Ford or Chevrolet pickups with new ones that got only marginally better gas mileage, according to an analysis of new federal data by The Associated Press.

Overdraft protection: A convenient excuse?

U.S. banks collected $28 billion in overdraft fees last year. That's up 35 percent from 2006. Why so much in fees? Consumer groups blame a banking system that lets you spend money you don't have, then socks you for the mistake.

Stinky washers give consumers the 'willies'

Consumers like front-loaders because they save water and energy - and get your clothes really clean. But many front-loading washers have an annoying odor problem.

Save, or pay down debt?

It's a common question these days: is my first priority paying down debt, or putting some money aside for savings?

Children's Halloween flashlights pose burn risk

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

People still falling for fake 'grandkids' call

The bad guys in Canada are calling people all around Western Washington. Too many are falling for the scam.

Ten ways counterfeit check scammers find you

Despite all our warnings, even people who think they know better are being taken in by counterfeit check scams. Here's a heads up for the top 10 ways scammers can track you down.

Federal regulations for credit cards clear first hurdle

The House Services Committee has cleared the first hurdle towards establishing a federal agency to regulate financial services. But be prepared for your banks and credit card companies to strike while they can.

Prepaid cell phones can help you save a bundle

Anytime Wal-Mart starts to sell a product, you know it's gone mainstream. And last week, the giant retailer started selling unlimited prepaid wireless plans -- unlimited voice and text for just $30 a month, and that includes the cost of the phone!

FDA: Beware of bogus swine flu 'cures'

The swine flu emergency has become a big sales opportunity - for people marketing bogus medical products. Dozens of products are being pitched on the Internet - products that have not been proven to prevent or cure the swine flu.