# General Discussion **URL:** https://community.cartalk.com/c/general-discussion/8.md?page=376 [Latest](https://community.cartalk.com/latest.md) · [Categories](https://community.cartalk.com/categories.md) · [Tags](https://community.cartalk.com/tags.md) **Page:** 377 --- ## [Looking for vehicle reccomendations for a BIG guy](https://community.cartalk.com/t/looking-for-vehicle-reccomendations-for-a-big-guy/68302)
**Author:** [@BigBobD](https://community.cartalk.com/u/BigBobD)\ **Replies:** 9\ **Last updated:** [October 2, 2011, 3:02pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/looking-for-vehicle-reccomendations-for-a-big-guy/68302 "2011-10-02T15:02:04Z")
At about 6' 6" and nearly 400 pounds, I'm a big guy. I've been searching on the Internet for vehicle suggestions, and I find a lot of articles about vehicles that are good for tall people (and a few for big people,) but… --- ## [Motor Trend and the Toyota Accelerator Problem](https://community.cartalk.com/t/motor-trend-and-the-toyota-accelerator-problem/68188)
**Author:** [@solarblast](https://community.cartalk.com/u/solarblast)\ **Replies:** 21\ **Last updated:** [October 2, 2011, 12:58pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/motor-trend-and-the-toyota-accelerator-problem/68188 "2011-10-02T12:58:03Z")
A friend tells me that some months ago that Motor Trend had an article about the Toyota accelerator problem that claimed Toyota was not at fault. Govt. and other data did not support the claim they were at fault. Anyone… --- ## [Volvo going to fours](https://community.cartalk.com/t/volvo-going-to-fours/68077)
**Author:** [@bscar](https://community.cartalk.com/u/bscar)\ **Replies:** 66\ **Last updated:** [October 1, 2011, 2:15pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/volvo-going-to-fours/68077 "2011-10-01T14:15:30Z")
http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/20/volvo-going-all-four-cylinder-or-less/ Volvo looking to have nothing larger than a 4cyl engine in a few years. Will offer 3 and 4 cyl engines in both gas and diesel. --- ## [Survey: 66% believe drivers rely too much on technology](https://community.cartalk.com/t/survey-66-believe-drivers-rely-too-much-on-technology/68186)
**Author:** [@bscar](https://community.cartalk.com/u/bscar)\ **Replies:** 28\ **Last updated:** [October 1, 2011, 2:08pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/survey-66-believe-drivers-rely-too-much-on-technology/68186 "2011-10-01T14:08:44Z")
http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/23/survey-66-believe-drivers-rely-too-much-on-technology/ According to a new study released by MetLife, around 66 percent of those surveyed believe that drivers rely too heavily on techn… --- ## [2001 BMW 325xi wagon setting alarm without the key?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/2001-bmw-325xi-wagon-setting-alarm-without-the-key/68329)
**Author:** [@marmotta](https://community.cartalk.com/u/marmotta)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [October 1, 2011, 3:22am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/2001-bmw-325xi-wagon-setting-alarm-without-the-key/68329 "2011-10-01T03:22:07Z")
Original owner, both keys will not recharge. New key is $125. I can use the key in the door to get into the car and turn ignition on but key does not recharge. This is NOT a battery issue, the key is the battery, if you … --- ## [Low octane fuel in a high-octane required vehicle?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/low-octane-fuel-in-a-high-octane-required-vehicle/68131)
**Author:** [@ghat](https://community.cartalk.com/u/ghat)\ **Replies:** 33\ **Last updated:** [October 1, 2011, 1:01am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/low-octane-fuel-in-a-high-octane-required-vehicle/68131 "2011-10-01T01:01:47Z")
hi I am proposing to get a new Subaru Forester. The Forester has 2 engine options, the usual one which works on normal/low octane gasoline, and the turbo which says that the high-octane gasoline is required... The turbo … --- ## [Prius, convertable or minivan?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/prius-convertable-or-minivan/68283)
**Author:** [@leeburkett](https://community.cartalk.com/u/leeburkett)\ **Replies:** 12\ **Last updated:** [September 30, 2011, 6:48pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/prius-convertable-or-minivan/68283 "2011-09-30T18:48:41Z")
Let's face it, I have "MPG Envy." My current ride gets between 19-20 miles to the gallon over the life of the tank. I am currently driving a 2002 Ford Ranger with 130K miles on her, Jenny has been a beautiful ride. Bu… --- ## [Jeep vs. Nissan?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/jeep-vs-nissan/68281)
**Author:** [@CapnTightpants](https://community.cartalk.com/u/CapnTightpants)\ **Replies:** 14\ **Last updated:** [September 30, 2011, 4:51pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/jeep-vs-nissan/68281 "2011-09-30T16:51:03Z")
I have a specific amount of money to spend on a good used car. Here are the choices, I'm looking for those in the know to weigh in. I know actual comparison is apples to oranges, but which one would you pick for the mo… --- ## [Gotta move from sun to snow](https://community.cartalk.com/t/gotta-move-from-sun-to-snow/68244)
**Author:** [@mapleafmom](https://community.cartalk.com/u/mapleafmom)\ **Replies:** 31\ **Last updated:** [September 30, 2011, 12:07pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/gotta-move-from-sun-to-snow/68244 "2011-09-30T12:07:29Z")
I'm moving from Southern California to Western New York (yes, I'm leaving 70s and sunny to go to winter weather). I can take one of 3 cars: 2011 BMW 328i (rear-wheel drive), 2007 VW Passat Wagon 3.6L 4motion (with about … --- ## [Squirrels under the hood](https://community.cartalk.com/t/squirrels-under-the-hood/68093)
**Author:** [@kat933](https://community.cartalk.com/u/kat933)\ **Replies:** 16\ **Last updated:** [September 29, 2011, 7:01pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/squirrels-under-the-hood/68093 "2011-09-29T19:01:17Z")
how can i keep squirrels from getting under my hood, building nests, chewing through wires, and costing $$ in repairs??? --- ## [10 ways to make your old car seem new again](https://community.cartalk.com/t/10-ways-to-make-your-old-car-seem-new-again/68224)
**Author:** [@bscar](https://community.cartalk.com/u/bscar)\ **Replies:** 9\ **Last updated:** [September 29, 2011, 4:22pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/10-ways-to-make-your-old-car-seem-new-again/68224 "2011-09-29T16:22:02Z")
http://www.popularmechanics.com/cars/how-to/maintenance/10-ways-to-make-your-old-car-feel-new?src=rss&utm\_source=feedburner&utm\_medium=feed&utm\_campaign=Feed%3A+pm%2Fautomotive%2Fnew\_cars+%28Automotive%3A+New+Cars%2C+Tru… --- ## [Error Codes](https://community.cartalk.com/t/error-codes/68278)
**Author:** [@flashing\_lights](https://community.cartalk.com/u/flashing_lights)\ **Replies:** 4\ **Last updated:** [September 29, 2011, 3:48am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/error-codes/68278 "2011-09-29T03:48:36Z")
I am told I am possibly having some engine misfires and I need to get my error codes read. The problem is I don't want to drive the car to an auto parts store to get read because the engine is really rough and bumpy. So… --- ## [Good used car for under $2000 in Woodbridge, VA?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/good-used-car-for-under-2000-in-woodbridge-va/68269)
**Author:** [@noellesmoot](https://community.cartalk.com/u/noellesmoot)\ **Replies:** 3\ **Last updated:** [September 28, 2011, 9:30pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/good-used-car-for-under-2000-in-woodbridge-va/68269 "2011-09-28T21:30:56Z")
My father and I are still looking for a car for me. We expanded our budget to $2000 or so. We're looking for something that is good on gas and on the smaller size. We're also looking for something with good vision , as i… --- ## [Cost of driving Electric car?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/cost-of-driving-electric-car/68165)
**Author:** [@AlphaMale](https://community.cartalk.com/u/AlphaMale)\ **Replies:** 23\ **Last updated:** [September 28, 2011, 12:34am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/cost-of-driving-electric-car/68165 "2011-09-28T00:34:58Z")
Now, in fact, unless gas goes to $15 a gallon, for most folk, gas is a very small percentage of the overall cost of using a car. Initial cost (total cost INCLUDING INTEREST IF FINANCED), cost of maintenance and repairs,… --- ## [Massachusetts Supreme Court upholds policy of charging $70 fee to innocent motorists](https://community.cartalk.com/t/massachusetts-supreme-court-upholds-policy-of-charging-70-fee-to-innocent-motorists/68180)
**Author:** [@bscar](https://community.cartalk.com/u/bscar)\ **Replies:** 15\ **Last updated:** [September 27, 2011, 10:45pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/massachusetts-supreme-court-upholds-policy-of-charging-70-fee-to-innocent-motorists/68180 "2011-09-27T22:45:17Z")
http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/24/mass-supreme-court-upholds-charging-75-fee-to-innocent-motoris/ ($20 for appealing the summons to a clerk, then another $50 to get the case in front of a district court judge). Gove… --- ## [Suggestions for Mom needing "new" used car](https://community.cartalk.com/t/suggestions-for-mom-needing-new-used-car/68183)
**Author:** [@missusdash](https://community.cartalk.com/u/missusdash)\ **Replies:** 5\ **Last updated:** [September 27, 2011, 9:13pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/suggestions-for-mom-needing-new-used-car/68183 "2011-09-27T21:13:26Z")
Can anyone suggest a reasonably-priced brand/model vehicle to me? Have 2 kids, a very modest budget and want to get the safest/most reliable car with the best gas mileage I can afford. Loved my Passat Wagon. It was qu… --- ## [2005 Honda CRV](https://community.cartalk.com/t/2005-honda-crv/68234)
**Author:** [@lwg1226](https://community.cartalk.com/u/lwg1226)\ **Replies:** 3\ **Last updated:** [September 27, 2011, 6:13pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/2005-honda-crv/68234 "2011-09-27T18:13:55Z")
Does the Honda CRV 4cyl. have a timing belt? --- ## [Ford and Chevy test new police cars in Detroit](https://community.cartalk.com/t/ford-and-chevy-test-new-police-cars-in-detroit/68181)
**Author:** [@bscar](https://community.cartalk.com/u/bscar)\ **Replies:** 15\ **Last updated:** [September 27, 2011, 4:56pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/ford-and-chevy-test-new-police-cars-in-detroit/68181 "2011-09-27T16:56:55Z")
http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/21/ford-police-interceptors-earn-official-pursuit-ratings/ http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/22/chevy-boasts-caprice-ppv-performance-in-michigan-state-police-te/ will they go for better br… --- ## [Tire pressure](https://community.cartalk.com/t/tire-pressure/68191)
**Author:** [@ramoro](https://community.cartalk.com/u/ramoro)\ **Replies:** 12\ **Last updated:** [September 27, 2011, 5:04am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/tire-pressure/68191 "2011-09-27T05:04:26Z")
Every 2 weeks I check my air pressure and 3 or 4 tires will have lost 10 to 15 pounds of air. I then reinflate and it happens again. This has been happening for 2 years. What could be causing this? --- ## [Ergonomic Seats](https://community.cartalk.com/t/ergonomic-seats/68004)
**Author:** [@ME2011](https://community.cartalk.com/u/ME2011)\ **Replies:** 17\ **Last updated:** [September 26, 2011, 7:57pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/ergonomic-seats/68004 "2011-09-26T19:57:28Z")
My spouse and I are Baby Boomers, with various medical conditions related to back problems (broken ribs, lumbar vertebrae damage, slipped disks, etc.) developed over the years. We are planning to purchase a new vehicle … --- ## [When to buy another car](https://community.cartalk.com/t/when-to-buy-another-car/68190)
**Author:** [@jacobsal](https://community.cartalk.com/u/jacobsal)\ **Replies:** 6\ **Last updated:** [September 26, 2011, 10:30am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/when-to-buy-another-car/68190 "2011-09-26T10:30:00Z")
I have a 2002 trail blazer- 112,000 miles. not a 4 wheel drive, just rear wheel. All the bells and whistles. Like it a lot- but costing me repairs.. like a new coil, brakes. I am on my own.. and a newly minted senior cit… --- ## [Disabled-looking for donated car or cheap one](https://community.cartalk.com/t/disabled-looking-for-donated-car-or-cheap-one/68138)
**Author:** [@juliewoolie](https://community.cartalk.com/u/juliewoolie)\ **Replies:** 6\ **Last updated:** [September 25, 2011, 4:15am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/disabled-looking-for-donated-car-or-cheap-one/68138 "2011-09-25T04:15:52Z")
Hi...I am on disability and my car was recently reposessed as I couldn't afford the payments since I had to stop working. Anyone know of any charities that might donate? Thanks... --- ## [Fuel Sensor problem-2006 Malibu 4 cyl with about 40,000 miles only](https://community.cartalk.com/t/fuel-sensor-problem-2006-malibu-4-cyl-with-about-40-000-miles-only/65584)
**Author:** [@JTAMETHYST](https://community.cartalk.com/u/JTAMETHYST)\ **Replies:** 1\ **Last updated:** [September 25, 2011, 12:41am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/fuel-sensor-problem-2006-malibu-4-cyl-with-about-40-000-miles-only/65584 "2011-09-25T00:41:36Z")
Fuel gauge suddenly goes to zero or empty although tankful of gas. This happens several times. Dealer diagnosed fuel sensor problem. GM won't cover repairs, not even on Goodwill. I have never experienced this problem on … --- ## [Ball joints](https://community.cartalk.com/t/ball-joints/68062)
**Author:** [@system](https://community.cartalk.com/u/system)\ **Replies:** 14\ **Last updated:** [September 24, 2011, 4:12pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/ball-joints/68062 "2011-09-24T16:12:58Z")
Can I, as a weekend do it your-selfer, safely change out the lower ball joint on vehicle listed below? Is this usually done by replacing with a loaded lower control arm? This is not my car so I am not sure I will be de… --- ## [Purchase Advice: Should I sell my 1999 Subaru Outback and get a 2006 Audi S4 Avant?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/purchase-advice-should-i-sell-my-1999-subaru-outback-and-get-a-2006-audi-s4-avant/68092)
**Author:** [@ccatx](https://community.cartalk.com/u/ccatx)\ **Replies:** 14\ **Last updated:** [September 24, 2011, 11:40am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/purchase-advice-should-i-sell-my-1999-subaru-outback-and-get-a-2006-audi-s4-avant/68092 "2011-09-24T11:40:06Z")
I have a 1999 Subaru (Legacy) Outback with 124k miles, and it's working fine except for an extra klunk in the rear when I go over bumps (which my dealer suspects requires an $800 strut replacement). My dilemma is that I'… --- ## [The Lehman time bomb](https://community.cartalk.com/t/the-lehman-time-bomb/68078)
**Author:** [@bscar](https://community.cartalk.com/u/bscar)\ **Replies:** 7\ **Last updated:** [September 24, 2011, 10:18am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/the-lehman-time-bomb/68078 "2011-09-24T10:18:35Z")
Dealers are having trouble getting enough used cars. And the short supply means used-car prices are bumping up against some new-car prices. For example, kbb.com lists a used 2008 Chevrolet Malibu LTZ with 23,000 miles at… --- ## [Used car dealer RAISING the price](https://community.cartalk.com/t/used-car-dealer-raising-the-price/68029)
**Author:** [@Edickinson](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Edickinson)\ **Replies:** 31\ **Last updated:** [September 23, 2011, 9:29pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/used-car-dealer-raising-the-price/68029 "2011-09-23T21:29:52Z")
So, my husband and I are looking to buy a used car. I've been spending days on craigslist and carfax and auto trader looking for suitable vehicles to see in person. We stopped at a local small used car dealer the other e… --- ## [Mileage](https://community.cartalk.com/t/mileage/68111)
**Author:** [@dirtroadjunkie](https://community.cartalk.com/u/dirtroadjunkie)\ **Replies:** 12\ **Last updated:** [September 23, 2011, 3:29pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/mileage/68111 "2011-09-23T15:29:38Z")
Let's say you've got a 3-liter V-6. Why not unplug the injectors for the 2 middle cyls. and save some gas for highway driving. You could run them thru a 2-pole relay w/ dashboard switch for passing, hills., etc. The only… --- ## [Auto Interior Fabric Protection?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/auto-interior-fabric-protection/68058)
**Author:** [@vsluga](https://community.cartalk.com/u/vsluga)\ **Replies:** 8\ **Last updated:** [September 23, 2011, 10:20am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/auto-interior-fabric-protection/68058 "2011-09-23T10:20:36Z")
I just purchased a new car and did not pay extra for interior fabric protection but wondering if there is a product I could do myself. I will be using my car for adventures, to take clients to and from appointments, and… --- ## [Extended service/warranty worth it?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/extended-service-warranty-worth-it/68108)
**Author:** [@jankster](https://community.cartalk.com/u/jankster)\ **Replies:** 11\ **Last updated:** [September 23, 2011, 9:52am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/extended-service-warranty-worth-it/68108 "2011-09-23T09:52:49Z")
i just bought a new bmw and they were really pushing for me to get the tire/wheel insurance for the run flats and to get the extended service package to extend all inclusive service to 100K miles. i drive around 40K mil… [Previous page](https://community.cartalk.com/c/general-discussion/8.md?page=375) [Next page](https://community.cartalk.com/c/general-discussion/8.md?page=377)