# General Discussion **URL:** https://community.cartalk.com/c/general-discussion/8.md?page=379 [Latest](https://community.cartalk.com/latest.md) · [Categories](https://community.cartalk.com/categories.md) · [Tags](https://community.cartalk.com/tags.md) **Page:** 380 --- ## [Consumer Reports 'chronicles decline in Honda's design competitiveness'](https://community.cartalk.com/t/consumer-reports-chronicles-decline-in-hondas-design-competitiveness/67111)
**Author:** [@bscar](https://community.cartalk.com/u/bscar)\ **Replies:** 56\ **Last updated:** [September 8, 2011, 10:53pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/consumer-reports-chronicles-decline-in-hondas-design-competitiveness/67111 "2011-09-08T22:53:13Z")
Consumer Reports created quite a stir on the Internets when it announced that it would no longer recommend the Honda Civic. The reason? The consumer advocacy institution cites issues such as the brakes, fit and finish an… --- ## [What car to buy?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/what-car-to-buy/67727)
**Author:** [@chezkir](https://community.cartalk.com/u/chezkir)\ **Replies:** 6\ **Last updated:** [September 8, 2011, 3:19pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/what-car-to-buy/67727 "2011-09-08T15:19:48Z")
Hi I need a car. I have a budget of about $25K. I prefer small and foreign. I haven't driven in 11 years. Gas mileage is important - and snow driving (this is Chicago). Looking at Golf, Mazda 3, Fit Hybrid... What else w… --- ## [Need help choosing a hatchback: Fit, Focus or Accent?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/need-help-choosing-a-hatchback-fit-focus-or-accent/65741)
**Author:** [@switters](https://community.cartalk.com/u/switters)\ **Replies:** 24\ **Last updated:** [September 8, 2011, 3:15pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/need-help-choosing-a-hatchback-fit-focus-or-accent/65741 "2011-09-08T15:15:50Z")
I'm getting ready to buy a new car. Here are my criteria: Price (under $23k) Fuel economy \> 30 mpg combined Good interior features/styling Quiet / little road noise Fun to drive Cargo space Reliability I'm choosing … --- ## [Which Used Car Should I Buy: '70 Cadillac SDV or '73 Pontiac Grand Am?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/which-used-car-should-i-buy-70-cadillac-sdv-or-73-pontiac-grand-am/66886)
**Author:** [@flatout](https://community.cartalk.com/u/flatout)\ **Replies:** 10\ **Last updated:** [September 8, 2011, 2:38am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/which-used-car-should-i-buy-70-cadillac-sdv-or-73-pontiac-grand-am/66886 "2011-09-08T02:38:07Z")
I know of a dealership in Chicago that has 2 cars that have piqued my interest: a '70 Cad. SDV, & A '73 Pontiac Grand Am with-get this-a 4-spd! I know, right? Anyway, I love land yachts-I owned a '68 Buick Electra powere… --- ## [New car show to hit the airwaves; CarFellas](https://community.cartalk.com/t/new-car-show-to-hit-the-airwaves-carfellas/67705)
**Author:** [@bscar](https://community.cartalk.com/u/bscar)\ **Replies:** 4\ **Last updated:** [September 8, 2011, 1:05am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/new-car-show-to-hit-the-airwaves-carfellas/67705 "2011-09-08T01:05:28Z")
http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/29/discovery-releases-trailer-for-carfellas-reality-series/ Guy gets arrested for mob ties and racketeering, so he wants to get an honest job in the used car business. The trailer makes it… --- ## [Moving a Car](https://community.cartalk.com/t/moving-a-car/67679)
**Author:** [@marzolan](https://community.cartalk.com/u/marzolan)\ **Replies:** 4\ **Last updated:** [September 7, 2011, 8:23pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/moving-a-car/67679 "2011-09-07T20:23:41Z")
And I don't mean towing or driving it. I was wondering if anyone has experience or recommendations on shipping a car. I recently moved cross-country, left my car in the possession of my mother as a "just-in-case" backu… --- ## [Ford partners with ZipCar for some college campuses](https://community.cartalk.com/t/ford-partners-with-zipcar-for-some-college-campuses/67708)
**Author:** [@bscar](https://community.cartalk.com/u/bscar)\ **Replies:** 5\ **Last updated:** [September 7, 2011, 7:46pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/ford-partners-with-zipcar-for-some-college-campuses/67708 "2011-09-07T19:46:02Z")
In the two-year partnership, Zipcar would add up to 650 Fords to its car lineup in the current academic year and up to 1,000 vehicles during the life of the deal, Ford said in a statement on Wednesday. The company said… --- ## [Losing Mileage](https://community.cartalk.com/t/losing-mileage/67625)
**Author:** [@davido33](https://community.cartalk.com/u/davido33)\ **Replies:** 9\ **Last updated:** [September 7, 2011, 2:16pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/losing-mileage/67625 "2011-09-07T14:16:02Z")
Since about 6 months ago I've noticed a significant drop in my mpg, as in from 20 down to 15. I drive a 1998 Nissan Quest with 98k miles, and keep it in very good condition.\* The head mechanic at the shop says it's due … --- ## [Oil use gauge](https://community.cartalk.com/t/oil-use-gauge/67680)
**Author:** [@frclyde](https://community.cartalk.com/u/frclyde)\ **Replies:** 16\ **Last updated:** [September 7, 2011, 4:06am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/oil-use-gauge/67680 "2011-09-07T04:06:27Z")
This is my first car with a gauge indicating remaining use of oil since last change. It reads 62 now. Car is used nearly in city driving--seldom go on highway. Can I trust gauge to indicate when to change oil? Or chan… --- ## [Carrying a load in my toyota corolla](https://community.cartalk.com/t/carrying-a-load-in-my-toyota-corolla/67596)
**Author:** [@BJC](https://community.cartalk.com/u/BJC)\ **Replies:** 11\ **Last updated:** [September 6, 2011, 9:50pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/carrying-a-load-in-my-toyota-corolla/67596 "2011-09-06T21:50:51Z")
I have a 2010 toyota corolla 4 dr. and would like to put on a roof rack and carry on top a 60 lb. tent that is 5 feet long and 9 in. sq. , and a louvered wooden door that is 15 lb. and measures 18 in. wide and 6.5 ft. lo… --- ## [On The Clock Humor](https://community.cartalk.com/t/on-the-clock-humor/67433)
**Author:** [@meaneyedcatz](https://community.cartalk.com/u/meaneyedcatz)\ **Replies:** 23\ **Last updated:** [September 6, 2011, 5:50pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/on-the-clock-humor/67433 "2011-09-06T17:50:24Z")
Any of you ever pull a fast one (in good taste) on a co worker at the shop? Now is your chance to tell about your "prank" on the clock. A bit of humor after the work week. An example Several years ago a co-worker and… --- ## [Should word get out that Toyota/Honda no longer makes the best cars?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/should-word-get-out-that-toyota-honda-no-longer-makes-the-best-cars/65390)
**Author:** [@mareakin](https://community.cartalk.com/u/mareakin)\ **Replies:** 130\ **Last updated:** [September 6, 2011, 5:33pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/should-word-get-out-that-toyota-honda-no-longer-makes-the-best-cars/65390 "2011-09-06T17:33:48Z")
I have 2007 Toyota Corolla CE, it's a fine car and I bought it basically because I didn't know enough about cars back then or about how my driving habits/taste would develop (that is to say, that I would prefer a more en… --- ## [Used car under $3000](https://community.cartalk.com/t/used-car-under-3000/67645)
**Author:** [@bmarcus220](https://community.cartalk.com/u/bmarcus220)\ **Replies:** 8\ **Last updated:** [September 6, 2011, 3:48am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/used-car-under-3000/67645 "2011-09-06T03:48:35Z")
I'm in need of a car under $3000, but safe and reliable. I know it'll have a bunch of miles on it but as long as it continues to run or requires cheap maintenance I'll be ok. Any ideas about specific cars I should be l… --- ## [But which Impala still has a front bench seat?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/but-which-impala-still-has-a-front-bench-seat/67626)
**Author:** [@RobertinNashville](https://community.cartalk.com/u/RobertinNashville)\ **Replies:** 7\ **Last updated:** [September 6, 2011, 3:31am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/but-which-impala-still-has-a-front-bench-seat/67626 "2011-09-06T03:31:37Z")
I know that the current Impala series offers a front bench seat. I've seen photos of some.I know --dinosaurs and all that. But after searching and searching, I cannot find which models have it so I can look for it LT?,… --- ## [Car Turn Over Noise](https://community.cartalk.com/t/car-turn-over-noise/67584)
**Author:** [@Pithy](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Pithy)\ **Replies:** 6\ **Last updated:** [September 6, 2011, 12:12am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/car-turn-over-noise/67584 "2011-09-06T00:12:20Z")
Does anyone have any good onomatopoeias for an engine turning over? Bonus points if you can transition for turn over to idle. --- ## [(o)T(o) Railroad grade crossing flasher relay electromagnet question](https://community.cartalk.com/t/o-t-o-railroad-grade-crossing-flasher-relay-electromagnet-question/67540)
**Author:** [@Robert-Gift](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Robert-Gift)\ **Replies:** 24\ **Last updated:** [September 5, 2011, 5:11pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/o-t-o-railroad-grade-crossing-flasher-relay-electromagnet-question/67540 "2011-09-05T17:11:21Z")
This 10-Volt DC 1946 glass-encased relay made the lights alternate "40 to 45 flashes per minute". In the trackside signal cabinet it sat on springs and has two electromagnet coils which alternately energize and attract … --- ## [Less-driven Peugeot over a road-weary but reliable Saab (in Finland)?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/less-driven-peugeot-over-a-road-weary-but-reliable-saab-in-finland/66997)
**Author:** [@Penelope70](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Penelope70)\ **Replies:** 9\ **Last updated:** [September 5, 2011, 8:18am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/less-driven-peugeot-over-a-road-weary-but-reliable-saab-in-finland/66997 "2011-09-05T08:18:00Z")
I have a 2001 Saab 93 automatic with 174,000 miles on it. It's a sport model with all the spices and it has never let me down during winter. Oh, and did I mention I live 250 miles north of Helsinki? It starts cold in any… --- ## [Seeking suggestions for replacement SUV](https://community.cartalk.com/t/seeking-suggestions-for-replacement-suv/67631)
**Author:** [@oblivion](https://community.cartalk.com/u/oblivion)\ **Replies:** 6\ **Last updated:** [September 4, 2011, 9:32pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/seeking-suggestions-for-replacement-suv/67631 "2011-09-04T21:32:28Z")
My GF would like to get rid of her current vehicle, a 1998 Honda Passport, and get something newer before winter. Her Passport has held up fairly well, but with major rust on the frame, and over 200K on the odometer, it… --- ## [They're all shaped like wedges of cheese!](https://community.cartalk.com/t/theyre-all-shaped-like-wedges-of-cheese/67587)
**Author:** [@RobertinNashville](https://community.cartalk.com/u/RobertinNashville)\ **Replies:** 19\ **Last updated:** [September 4, 2011, 5:58pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/theyre-all-shaped-like-wedges-of-cheese/67587 "2011-09-04T17:58:36Z")
Dear Klick and Klack and other car fans, Help! I'm trying to find a car with reasonable window size and rear visibility and ceiling room. A late 90s Pontiac Bonnieville or Volvo are my ideas of people friendly architec… --- ## [BMW X3 versus Volvo XC60?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/bmw-x3-versus-volvo-xc60/67638)
**Author:** [@sajain](https://community.cartalk.com/u/sajain)\ **Replies:** 1\ **Last updated:** [September 4, 2011, 12:03pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/bmw-x3-versus-volvo-xc60/67638 "2011-09-04T12:03:45Z")
Having owned a 2001 BMW X5 for 10 years now wondering which to purchase the BMW X3 or Volvo XC 60 within the next month or so based on: 1. Safety 2. Reliablity --- ## [Trust](https://community.cartalk.com/t/trust/67574)
**Author:** [@timmytoast](https://community.cartalk.com/u/timmytoast)\ **Replies:** 12\ **Last updated:** [September 4, 2011, 3:24am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/trust/67574 "2011-09-04T03:24:43Z")
I just pick up my car from the dealership where I purchased it after having it inspected. Anyway Before I dropped it off I took my wifes advice and took my fishing gear & golf bag out of the car. But I counted the change… --- ## [Volkswagen Beetle GLS](https://community.cartalk.com/t/volkswagen-beetle-gls/67624)
**Author:** [@TinaMu](https://community.cartalk.com/u/TinaMu)\ **Replies:** 3\ **Last updated:** [September 4, 2011, 12:27am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/volkswagen-beetle-gls/67624 "2011-09-04T00:27:03Z")
We are looking at a 2002 VW bug for my husband's 22 year-old son. It seems people love them or hate them. Should we steer clear? --- ## [Misfiring on 2000 chevy astro van](https://community.cartalk.com/t/misfiring-on-2000-chevy-astro-van/67622)
**Author:** [@slicktrick](https://community.cartalk.com/u/slicktrick)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [September 3, 2011, 5:15pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/misfiring-on-2000-chevy-astro-van/67622 "2011-09-03T17:15:17Z")
I keep getting misfire on cyl. 4 and 6 according to computer. I have problem with arcking coil wire; even with new wire. And when I replace cap and rotor it runs good for a while then starts to act up again. When driving… --- ## [2003 Taurus vs. 1998 Corolla?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/2003-taurus-vs-1998-corolla/67459)
**Author:** [@acauseon](https://community.cartalk.com/u/acauseon)\ **Replies:** 9\ **Last updated:** [September 3, 2011, 11:35am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/2003-taurus-vs-1998-corolla/67459 "2011-09-03T11:35:32Z")
I drive a 1998 Toyota Corolla with about 119,000 miles on it. It's been reliable for me, though it has its quirks. I now have the opportunity to get a 2003 Ford Taurus for $1000. It has a little more size and comfort,… --- ## [Honda Accord or Nissan Altima - Help!](https://community.cartalk.com/t/honda-accord-or-nissan-altima-help/67572)
**Author:** [@akb](https://community.cartalk.com/u/akb)\ **Replies:** 8\ **Last updated:** [September 2, 2011, 2:36pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/honda-accord-or-nissan-altima-help/67572 "2011-09-02T14:36:06Z")
I'm shopping for a 4 door sedan, manual transmission, 2007 or 2008. Narrowed it down between the Altima (my favorite) and the Accord (always have had Hondas). I was all set to go with the Altima when I noticed a lot of… --- ## [An app that predicts traffic lights for better mpg](https://community.cartalk.com/t/an-app-that-predicts-traffic-lights-for-better-mpg/67492)
**Author:** [@bscar](https://community.cartalk.com/u/bscar)\ **Replies:** 9\ **Last updated:** [September 2, 2011, 2:23pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/an-app-that-predicts-traffic-lights-for-better-mpg/67492 "2011-09-02T14:23:01Z")
http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/26/mit-princeton-find-smartphones-can-improve-fuel-efficiency-by-2/ articles says they got a 20% bump in mpg by having the app time the lights so you can slow down or speed up to catch t… --- ## [Good first car?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/good-first-car/67495)
**Author:** [@mjoosten](https://community.cartalk.com/u/mjoosten)\ **Replies:** 14\ **Last updated:** [September 2, 2011, 2:14pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/good-first-car/67495 "2011-09-02T14:14:15Z")
what is a good first car for a 17 year old (no experience in fixing....but my dad has a bit) that is easy to fix if needed and between 1960-90? especially things like a firebird, camaro, mustang etc. --- ## [I-pad charge drain battery](https://community.cartalk.com/t/i-pad-charge-drain-battery/67537)
**Author:** [@Eclecticlz](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Eclecticlz)\ **Replies:** 7\ **Last updated:** [September 2, 2011, 11:49am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/i-pad-charge-drain-battery/67537 "2011-09-02T11:49:23Z")
can you charge an i-pad for 2 or 3 hrs. without having the car running. Will it drain the battery if you do? --- ## [Kyle busch losses license for 45 days](https://community.cartalk.com/t/kyle-busch-losses-license-for-45-days/67494)
**Author:** [@bscar](https://community.cartalk.com/u/bscar)\ **Replies:** 15\ **Last updated:** [September 1, 2011, 9:32pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/kyle-busch-losses-license-for-45-days/67494 "2011-09-01T21:32:10Z")
http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/24/kyle-busch-reportedly-loses-license-for-45-days-for-speeding-in/ 128mph in a 45 zone. $1000 fine, 45 day suspension, 1 year probation and 30 days community service. Too light, just … --- ## [1930's Ford - Flywheel came off?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/1930s-ford-flywheel-came-off/67508)
**Author:** [@hbrasington](https://community.cartalk.com/u/hbrasington)\ **Replies:** 19\ **Last updated:** [September 1, 2011, 9:16pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/1930s-ford-flywheel-came-off/67508 "2011-09-01T21:16:04Z")
I heard a story about someone turning too many rpms on a 1930s Ford hotrod, and that a flywheel came off the engine and rolled up the street. Could such a thing happen? Did these 1930's Fords have a flywheel that could… [Previous page](https://community.cartalk.com/c/general-discussion/8.md?page=378) [Next page](https://community.cartalk.com/c/general-discussion/8.md?page=380)