# General Discussion **URL:** https://community.cartalk.com/c/general-discussion/8.md?page=396 [Latest](https://community.cartalk.com/latest.md) · [Categories](https://community.cartalk.com/categories.md) · [Tags](https://community.cartalk.com/tags.md) **Page:** 397 --- ## [Gas](https://community.cartalk.com/t/gas/64674)
**Author:** [@jwv](https://community.cartalk.com/u/jwv)\ **Replies:** 7\ **Last updated:** [May 16, 2011, 11:22pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/gas/64674 "2011-05-16T23:22:19Z")
Can regular gas be used in vehicles where premium gas is recommended or the manual says you have to use premium. --- ## [Converting 7 passenger minivans to 8 passenger](https://community.cartalk.com/t/converting-7-passenger-minivans-to-8-passenger/64686)
**Author:** [@wolfmanyoda](https://community.cartalk.com/u/wolfmanyoda)\ **Replies:** 9\ **Last updated:** [May 16, 2011, 11:08pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/converting-7-passenger-minivans-to-8-passenger/64686 "2011-05-16T23:08:24Z")
I've been looking around for an 8 passenger minivan but I'm not finding them in my price range (read:cheap). I have found plenty of 7 passenger minivans: Caravan, Odyssey, Quest, Montana.... I'm wondering if it's possi… --- ## [Looking for a VW Beetle mechanic in Mass](https://community.cartalk.com/t/looking-for-a-vw-beetle-mechanic-in-mass/64709)
**Author:** [@steveandjoyce](https://community.cartalk.com/u/steveandjoyce)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [May 16, 2011, 9:06pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/looking-for-a-vw-beetle-mechanic-in-mass/64709 "2011-05-16T21:06:33Z")
i am looking for someone who knows their way around a 2000 Beetle. i live on the northshore in mass. i would prefer to avoid the "chain"store mechanic. thank you. steve --- ## [Science fair project help, with used car parts](https://community.cartalk.com/t/science-fair-project-help-with-used-car-parts/64035)
**Author:** [@sailingsoul](https://community.cartalk.com/u/sailingsoul)\ **Replies:** 7\ **Last updated:** [May 16, 2011, 5:26pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/science-fair-project-help-with-used-car-parts/64035 "2011-05-16T17:26:41Z")
I have a question that I hope to get some feedback on about injectors etc.. I have no real experience with fuel injectors and need some feed back before I go off half cocked and waste my time. What I want to do is a scie… --- ## [Searching?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/searching/64687)
**Author:** [@Nate](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Nate)\ **Replies:** 2\ **Last updated:** [May 15, 2011, 10:11pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/searching/64687 "2011-05-15T22:11:33Z")
I am new to the community (though not to the program, which I have followed almost longer than I've been driving). What brought me here was a google search on towing a boat. And when I saw Car Talk come up, I thought, … --- ## [Car specific info](https://community.cartalk.com/t/car-specific-info/64671)
**Author:** [@gstuck](https://community.cartalk.com/u/gstuck)\ **Replies:** 6\ **Last updated:** [May 15, 2011, 3:47pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/car-specific-info/64671 "2011-05-15T15:47:24Z")
how do I get detailed specs via VIN for my car? Am looking for VIN-specific info for this car-not for make or model --- ## [Pack Your Engine With Crap By Running Out Of Gasoline?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/pack-your-engine-with-crap-by-running-out-of-gasoline/64553)
**Author:** [@common-sense-answer](https://community.cartalk.com/u/common-sense-answer)\ **Replies:** 16\ **Last updated:** [May 15, 2011, 3:32pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/pack-your-engine-with-crap-by-running-out-of-gasoline/64553 "2011-05-15T15:32:34Z")
I know that many (most) advise against running low or running out of gas because an in-the-tank pump can overheat and have a shortened lif as a result. However, I just read yet another article that stated there are dan… --- ## [What were they thinking?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/what-were-they-thinking/64520)
**Author:** [@TwinTurbo](https://community.cartalk.com/u/TwinTurbo)\ **Replies:** 18\ **Last updated:** [May 15, 2011, 3:10pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/what-were-they-thinking/64520 "2011-05-15T15:10:56Z")
I have been a staunch supporter of auto engineers in general. Their jobs are not easy and often criticized. Then I tried doing the lower ball joints on my '04 Trailblazer over the weekend... What a breeze to separate t… --- ## [Complete loss of power with key turn](https://community.cartalk.com/t/complete-loss-of-power-with-key-turn/64564)
**Author:** [@Scott](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Scott)\ **Replies:** 3\ **Last updated:** [May 14, 2011, 7:34pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/complete-loss-of-power-with-key-turn/64564 "2011-05-14T19:34:38Z")
My daughter drives a 94 Century (120+ K) and it was running great, no issues to speak of. Thursday morning she was advised that her brake lights were stuck on when the car was parked in school lot. This drained the batte… --- ## [Welcome to the New Car Talk Community!](https://community.cartalk.com/t/welcome-to-the-new-car-talk-community/64323)
**Author:** [@Car\_Talk](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Car_Talk)\ **Replies:** 48\ **Last updated:** [May 13, 2011, 9:21pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/welcome-to-the-new-car-talk-community/64323 "2011-05-13T21:21:38Z")
We've now completed the migration to our new home. During the coming days and weeks, we'll be addressing those inevitable, niggling issues that occur with the move to a new residence. In the case of the community, that m… --- ## [The Best Wiper Blades](https://community.cartalk.com/t/the-best-wiper-blades/64157)
**Author:** [@mb5191](https://community.cartalk.com/u/mb5191)\ **Replies:** 28\ **Last updated:** [May 13, 2011, 5:02pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/the-best-wiper-blades/64157 "2011-05-13T17:02:41Z")
Alright everyone, Springtime is upon us, and for some of us, that means spring showers and thunderstorms. I've always regarded wiper blades being an absolutely essential safety feature on any car. Its often overlooked, h… --- ## [Cross Country Tow, worth the wear & tear?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/cross-country-tow-worth-the-wear-tear/64610)
**Author:** [@CBinNJ](https://community.cartalk.com/u/CBinNJ)\ **Replies:** 10\ **Last updated:** [May 13, 2011, 2:35pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/cross-country-tow-worth-the-wear-tear/64610 "2011-05-13T14:35:16Z")
Trying to put together the numbers on getting two cars from the Philly region to Portland OR. A 2005 Honda Pilot and a 2008 Toyota Yaris (2300lbs). Before I start buying coolers & hitches, I'd love to hear people's thoug… --- ## [Fuel efficient vehicle for large people](https://community.cartalk.com/t/fuel-efficient-vehicle-for-large-people/64579)
**Author:** [@Jmmemm](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Jmmemm)\ **Replies:** 10\ **Last updated:** [May 13, 2011, 5:01am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/fuel-efficient-vehicle-for-large-people/64579 "2011-05-13T05:01:07Z")
I am 6'1" and 295 pounds and would like to know how to find a fuel efficient vehicle that would be easy to get into and out of. --- ## [Who Drives a Girlie Car?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/who-drives-a-girlie-car/64394)
**Author:** [@jtsanders](https://community.cartalk.com/u/jtsanders)\ **Replies:** 42\ **Last updated:** [May 12, 2011, 10:21am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/who-drives-a-girlie-car/64394 "2011-05-12T10:21:02Z")
TrueCar.com evaluated the sex appeal of all cars with over 1000 sales. Not surprisingly, the men were supremely attracted to pick-up trucks and sports cars: Porsche 911, GMC Sierra, Chevrolet Corvette, Chevrolet Silve… --- ## [Book Marking Discussions](https://community.cartalk.com/t/book-marking-discussions/64602)
**Author:** [@edb1961](https://community.cartalk.com/u/edb1961)\ **Replies:** 3\ **Last updated:** [May 11, 2011, 10:44pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/book-marking-discussions/64602 "2011-05-11T22:44:31Z")
How does one bookmark or unbookmark a discussion? Somehow I bookmarked a discussion and have no idea how to unbookmark it. Ed B. --- ## [Hybrid & Electric cars-can polonged exposure have negative health fx? Fact, Myth. or still studied?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/hybrid-electric-cars-can-polonged-exposure-have-negative-health-fx-fact-myth-or-still-studied/64516)
**Author:** [@carvesnow4fun](https://community.cartalk.com/u/carvesnow4fun)\ **Replies:** 14\ **Last updated:** [May 11, 2011, 8:50pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/hybrid-electric-cars-can-polonged-exposure-have-negative-health-fx-fact-myth-or-still-studied/64516 "2011-05-11T20:50:53Z")
I've been looking around some on car forums for any solid RECENT studies with Hybrid and Electric Cars with prolonged use to the huge electro magnetic field that is being used, if there are any SOLID facts about health p… --- ## [BMW 335d](https://community.cartalk.com/t/bmw-335d/64560)
**Author:** [@munashik](https://community.cartalk.com/u/munashik)\ **Replies:** 16\ **Last updated:** [May 11, 2011, 8:50pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/bmw-335d/64560 "2011-05-11T20:50:40Z")
I'm in the market for a used BMW 335d, which are hard to come by b/c they're relatively new. This will be my first car, and I'm kinda confused by the buying process. I found a used one for about 5 grand less than the res… --- ## [Gas to steam conversion](https://community.cartalk.com/t/gas-to-steam-conversion/64517)
**Author:** [@DanO67](https://community.cartalk.com/u/DanO67)\ **Replies:** 27\ **Last updated:** [May 11, 2011, 3:03pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/gas-to-steam-conversion/64517 "2011-05-11T15:03:50Z")
Could I have a cam made to open the intake valves every time the piston is going down and open the exhaust valve every time the piston comes up eliminating the compression stoke. Then pull off the carburetor and with a s… --- ## [Engine overhaul manual options?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/engine-overhaul-manual-options/64200)
**Author:** [@ccooper](https://community.cartalk.com/u/ccooper)\ **Replies:** 17\ **Last updated:** [May 11, 2011, 3:45am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/engine-overhaul-manual-options/64200 "2011-05-11T03:45:02Z")
I am planning on doing an overhaul on a '94 3/4 ton Dodge. It has the 360 in it, and I was wondering if anyone has a suggestion on the brand of manual to use. I feel apt enough to do the work, but I need something for th… --- ## [Favorite Integra](https://community.cartalk.com/t/favorite-integra/64344)
**Author:** [@Tenorsextets](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Tenorsextets)\ **Replies:** 15\ **Last updated:** [May 11, 2011, 1:53am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/favorite-integra/64344 "2011-05-11T01:53:20Z")
I'm hoping to get an Acura Integra sometime in the near future. I'm at a bit of a crossroads of what generation I want. I like the body style of the old DA/DB's (1989-1993), especially the front end. It looks more lik… --- ## [Old car with low mileage versus Newer car with high mileage?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/old-car-with-low-mileage-versus-newer-car-with-high-mileage/64348)
**Author:** [@msalley1](https://community.cartalk.com/u/msalley1)\ **Replies:** 9\ **Last updated:** [May 10, 2011, 7:59pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/old-car-with-low-mileage-versus-newer-car-with-high-mileage/64348 "2011-05-10T19:59:33Z")
I am looking for a minivan for my family of 5. We currently have 2 honda accords and love them. I would like to purchase either a Honda Odyssey or a Toyota Sienna. I can't afford new and am therefore looking at used v… --- ## [5.0](https://community.cartalk.com/t/5-0/64533)
**Author:** [@stevenmcds](https://community.cartalk.com/u/stevenmcds)\ **Replies:** 10\ **Last updated:** [May 10, 2011, 3:56pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/5-0/64533 "2011-05-10T15:56:01Z")
I have a 95 ford 150 want to get more power out my 5.0 engine so I can climb hill faster and pull a trailer should I install a larger engine or maybe add tubro I plan on keeping my truck for a very long time so insta… --- ## [Headlight for 2004 honda civic](https://community.cartalk.com/t/headlight-for-2004-honda-civic/64541)
**Author:** [@lolly](https://community.cartalk.com/u/lolly)\ **Replies:** 4\ **Last updated:** [May 10, 2011, 3:06pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/headlight-for-2004-honda-civic/64541 "2011-05-10T15:06:06Z")
I recently purchased a headlight for the drivers side for the first time since buying the car new. I took it to two different shops and had four mechanics tell me it was not possible to change it without removing the ent… --- ## [First car-new driver... help me choose!](https://community.cartalk.com/t/first-car-new-driver-help-me-choose/64489)
**Author:** [@lostinjapan](https://community.cartalk.com/u/lostinjapan)\ **Replies:** 16\ **Last updated:** [May 10, 2011, 1:01am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/first-car-new-driver-help-me-choose/64489 "2011-05-10T01:01:28Z")
I will be returning to the USA next year after living abroad most of my life. I have never had the need for a car and have not had a license since I was in HS. I have always been in love with the Dodge Dart, (yo Tommy!)… --- ## [When were pickup trucks required to have side airbags?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/when-were-pickup-trucks-required-to-have-side-airbags/64538)
**Author:** [@Educated\_Hillbilly](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Educated_Hillbilly)\ **Replies:** 2\ **Last updated:** [May 9, 2011, 11:19pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/when-were-pickup-trucks-required-to-have-side-airbags/64538 "2011-05-09T23:19:03Z")
I'm in the market for a used pickup truck for my second vehicle. I'll only use it for occasional hauling of garden supplies, etc., so it can be small or medium size, and it must not be expensive. Having already been… --- ## [Toyota Prius](https://community.cartalk.com/t/toyota-prius/64456)
**Author:** [@Robbinsville](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Robbinsville)\ **Replies:** 7\ **Last updated:** [May 9, 2011, 6:22pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/toyota-prius/64456 "2011-05-09T18:22:15Z")
My parents own a 2006 Toyota Prius. Over a week ago, they were dropping off my toddler at my house after doing me the favor of babysitting for a few hours. As they were getting ready to park my driveway, the Prius had su… --- ## [Have engine clean](https://community.cartalk.com/t/have-engine-clean/64474)
**Author:** [@funnyface](https://community.cartalk.com/u/funnyface)\ **Replies:** 7\ **Last updated:** [May 9, 2011, 4:46pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/have-engine-clean/64474 "2011-05-09T16:46:43Z")
Bought a 2001 Dodge Caravan. Everything under the hood is very dirty. Should I get it cleaned? --- ## [Best 2011minivans for triplets](https://community.cartalk.com/t/best-2011minivans-for-triplets/64411)
**Author:** [@knutt](https://community.cartalk.com/u/knutt)\ **Replies:** 20\ **Last updated:** [May 9, 2011, 3:57pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/best-2011minivans-for-triplets/64411 "2011-05-09T15:57:52Z")
What are the best minivans or SUVs for a family expecting triplets? No price condition...only do we get all the available options! --- ## [Are there- Driver Only...with first class seating -Cars](https://community.cartalk.com/t/are-there-driver-only-with-first-class-seating-cars/64391)
**Author:** [@lifeishiking](https://community.cartalk.com/u/lifeishiking)\ **Replies:** 19\ **Last updated:** [May 9, 2011, 2:43pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/are-there-driver-only-with-first-class-seating-cars/64391 "2011-05-09T14:43:59Z")
Why are standard consumer cars always made with a passenger seat? Seems a waste. 95% of my driving is done with just me in the car. Right now I am owned by a 15 years young Honda Accord. There is so much I don’t need … --- ## [Why do they make cars that do only what the engineer prefers](https://community.cartalk.com/t/why-do-they-make-cars-that-do-only-what-the-engineer-prefers/64127)
**Author:** [@Troubleshooter](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Troubleshooter)\ **Replies:** 28\ **Last updated:** [May 9, 2011, 4:52am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/why-do-they-make-cars-that-do-only-what-the-engineer-prefers/64127 "2011-05-09T04:52:38Z")
Why do they make computer controlled cars with so many interlocked controls? Case in point is my 2002 Pontiac Bonneville: - They didn't provide any way to start moving in second gear in icy weather. - If t… [Previous page](https://community.cartalk.com/c/general-discussion/8.md?page=395) [Next page](https://community.cartalk.com/c/general-discussion/8.md?page=397)