# General Discussion

**URL:** https://community.cartalk.com/c/general-discussion/8.md?page=398

[Latest](https://community.cartalk.com/latest.md) · [Categories](https://community.cartalk.com/categories.md) · [Tags](https://community.cartalk.com/tags.md)

**Page:** 399

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## [I want a sports car!](https://community.cartalk.com/t/i-want-a-sports-car/46918)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@boilerman2601](https://community.cartalk.com/u/boilerman2601)\
**Replies:** 39\
**Last updated:** [April 28, 2011, 8:50am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/i-want-a-sports-car/46918 "2011-04-28T08:50:09Z")

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OK, call it a mid life crisis, but I'm thinking of getting a sports car. I'm looking used and under $10,000. I want stick and convertable. Fast would be good, but not necessary. So.. I'm thinking of a BMW Z-3. Somebody…

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## [Tail Lights Melting - 2010 Mazda 6](https://community.cartalk.com/t/tail-lights-melting-2010-mazda-6/64153)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@gregsmazda6](https://community.cartalk.com/u/gregsmazda6)\
**Replies:** 3\
**Last updated:** [April 28, 2011, 6:02am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/tail-lights-melting-2010-mazda-6/64153 "2011-04-28T06:02:19Z")

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Ok, I just bought a 2010 Mazda 6 off company lease from a friend and noticed the rear tail lights are melting on both sides - yes, actually melting. Original bulbs are as installed. Brought it to the dealer and of course…

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## [Gas station](https://community.cartalk.com/t/gas-station/63999)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@judymiller34](https://community.cartalk.com/u/judymiller34)\
**Replies:** 15\
**Last updated:** [April 28, 2011, 1:35am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/gas-station/63999 "2011-04-28T01:35:37Z")

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Can anyone give me information on how to start researching what I should know before buying a gas station?

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## [Misuse of lights](https://community.cartalk.com/t/misuse-of-lights/63956)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@setzzz](https://community.cartalk.com/u/setzzz)\
**Replies:** 46\
**Last updated:** [April 28, 2011, 1:03am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/misuse-of-lights/63956 "2011-04-28T01:03:05Z")

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Would someone explain to me what it is with such rampant misuse of lights with so many drivers these days? Namely Turn Signal and Fog Lights. I am amazed at how many drivers are using their Fog Lights on perfectly clear …

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## [New features for the Car Talk Community](https://community.cartalk.com/t/new-features-for-the-car-talk-community/52247)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@dmayer](https://community.cartalk.com/u/dmayer)\
**Replies:** 28\
**Last updated:** [April 28, 2011, 12:54am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/new-features-for-the-car-talk-community/52247 "2011-04-28T00:54:40Z")

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Hi Car Talk Community Friends, I wanted to drop you a note, and let you know that the Car Talk web site crew is currently considering a change to a new back end for the forum. Later this summer or in early fall, we'…

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## [3rd world cars](https://community.cartalk.com/t/3rd-world-cars/63828)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@wsorey](https://community.cartalk.com/u/wsorey)\
**Replies:** 9\
**Last updated:** [April 27, 2011, 4:58pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/3rd-world-cars/63828 "2011-04-27T16:58:25Z")

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My daughter is a new Foreign Service Officer, soon to be posted in Sri Lanka for 2 years. She is considering buying a car there and wants to know what to look for, how many miles are OK, etc. She needs help. I told her t…

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## [Can you name this car?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/can-you-name-this-car/64004)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@y2k\_knight](https://community.cartalk.com/u/y2k_knight)\
**Replies:** 5\
**Last updated:** [April 27, 2011, 3:26pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/can-you-name-this-car/64004 "2011-04-27T15:26:33Z")

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When I was a kid (late 60's - early 70's) my mom bought on old car, I think it was a Cadillac. The really memorable thing about this car was what I think was very early cruise control. There were a series of button…

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## [Fiat 500 or Scion TC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/fiat-500-or-scion-tc/63630)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@isshanna](https://community.cartalk.com/u/isshanna)\
**Replies:** 29\
**Last updated:** [April 27, 2011, 12:43pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/fiat-500-or-scion-tc/63630 "2011-04-27T12:43:39Z")

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Somebody might have already asked this, but i didn't see it anywhere on the forums. My friend is looking at getting a new car, and for some reason she is dead set on a brand new scion tc, where as my roommate is convince…

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## [Sun's Rays](https://community.cartalk.com/t/suns-rays/64121)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@skomjathy](https://community.cartalk.com/u/skomjathy)\
**Replies:** 2\
**Last updated:** [April 27, 2011, 3:24am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/suns-rays/64121 "2011-04-27T03:24:41Z")

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Here?s a home-grown puzzler that wouldn?t show up very well on radio: What accounts for the angles between the sun?s rays in the photo at the following link? http://not...n-rays.jpg Rays from the sun shoul…

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## [Need a new vehicle - your suggestions?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/need-a-new-vehicle-your-suggestions/64100)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@readthebook](https://community.cartalk.com/u/readthebook)\
**Replies:** 9\
**Last updated:** [April 27, 2011, 2:45am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/need-a-new-vehicle-your-suggestions/64100 "2011-04-27T02:45:50Z")

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My 11 year old Plymouth Grand Voyager finally came to its final rest. I need a new vehicle. I know nothing is perfect but I'm trying.... I would really appreciate hearing your suggestions on vehicles that worked well f…

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## [How much is too much to pay for fuel?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/how-much-is-too-much-to-pay-for-fuel/63415)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@Whitey](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Whitey)\
**Replies:** 184\
**Last updated:** [April 27, 2011, 12:19am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/how-much-is-too-much-to-pay-for-fuel/63415 "2011-04-27T00:19:52Z")

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It amuses me to see all the threads about saving fuel and the price of fuel. Every time the price of fuel spikes, I make the point that paying $4/gallon is a bargain. A gallon of gas will move a 3,000 pound car 30 mile…

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## [Common matainance gaps that casue early failure of your car](https://community.cartalk.com/t/common-matainance-gaps-that-casue-early-failure-of-your-car/63873)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@Red-Tail](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Red-Tail)\
**Replies:** 74\
**Last updated:** [April 26, 2011, 10:58pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/common-matainance-gaps-that-casue-early-failure-of-your-car/63873 "2011-04-26T22:58:56Z")

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I am giving a little speech for a class of mine, and I need a couple of quote-able quotes from a certified mechanic. (Sort of a 'personal' interview if you will). I am giving an informative speech on how the average …

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## [Air bag light came on](https://community.cartalk.com/t/air-bag-light-came-on/64071)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@MJEFFURBER](https://community.cartalk.com/u/MJEFFURBER)\
**Replies:** 12\
**Last updated:** [April 26, 2011, 5:02pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/air-bag-light-came-on/64071 "2011-04-26T17:02:02Z")

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My airbag light came on in my 2006 Tacoma, had it fixe for $580, as my dealer told me: 1. It would not deploy during a accident 2. could not get a inspection sticker 3. It was not covered by my warranty 4. It was…

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## [Mazda Cx-9 or Toyota Highlander?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/mazda-cx-9-or-toyota-highlander/64030)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@natahoa](https://community.cartalk.com/u/natahoa)\
**Replies:** 12\
**Last updated:** [April 26, 2011, 12:46am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/mazda-cx-9-or-toyota-highlander/64030 "2011-04-26T00:46:42Z")

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I am planning to replace my Odyssey van with a "crossover" and my priorities are to have a comfortable car for long trips, large enough to haul my college-kids' stuff around a few times a year. I'm considering the Mazda …

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## [Mazda Recall 4206F - not being honored - advice?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/mazda-recall-4206f-not-being-honored-advice/63944)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@jessisantos](https://community.cartalk.com/u/jessisantos)\
**Replies:** 12\
**Last updated:** [April 25, 2011, 10:00pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/mazda-recall-4206f-not-being-honored-advice/63944 "2011-04-25T22:00:25Z")

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I have a 2004 RX-8 and from the time of purchase (I was a second owner) i've had to replace the spark plugs countless times. I didn't think much of it but when my car finally starting acting up (it would die out when idl…

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## [Seafoam in Vacuum lines](https://community.cartalk.com/t/seafoam-in-vacuum-lines/64065)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@mb5191](https://community.cartalk.com/u/mb5191)\
**Replies:** 5\
**Last updated:** [April 25, 2011, 9:27pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/seafoam-in-vacuum-lines/64065 "2011-04-25T21:27:27Z")

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Hey everyone, I picked up a bottle of Seafoam at the car store today (sale) and I was planning on putting it in the vacuum line. Will this make any improvements in engine quality? And above all, is it safe in my 2002 Acc…

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## [Lease to Purchase?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/lease-to-purchase/64049)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@eking1960](https://community.cartalk.com/u/eking1960)\
**Replies:** 4\
**Last updated:** [April 25, 2011, 4:30pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/lease-to-purchase/64049 "2011-04-25T16:30:00Z")

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We love our 2008 Saturn Outlook, my concern is if we purchase the vehicle will parts be available, since Saturn Company is out in limbo! Does it become a collectible or just junk? Finally, is the lease contract negotiabl…

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## [(Gripe) Low-visibility Pedestrians](https://community.cartalk.com/t/gripe-low-visibility-pedestrians/56720)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@AMMinNY](https://community.cartalk.com/u/AMMinNY)\
**Replies:** 10\
**Last updated:** [April 25, 2011, 4:21pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/gripe-low-visibility-pedestrians/56720 "2011-04-25T16:21:52Z")

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In my area of the country (NYC suburbs), it is fashionable to wear dark colors at night, like black or charcoal grey. It is also fashionable to walk across busy streets and highways in places other than at a stoplight. …

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## [BOSS button](https://community.cartalk.com/t/boss-button/56970)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@Andyt59](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Andyt59)\
**Replies:** 12\
**Last updated:** [April 25, 2011, 3:41pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/boss-button/56970 "2011-04-25T15:41:44Z")

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What ever happened to the BOSS button? It saved my job many times when I was surfing the CT web site and not doing what I was suppose to!!!

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## [Less miles vs newer car](https://community.cartalk.com/t/less-miles-vs-newer-car/64043)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@snowangelinLA](https://community.cartalk.com/u/snowangelinLA)\
**Replies:** 2\
**Last updated:** [April 25, 2011, 12:00pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/less-miles-vs-newer-car/64043 "2011-04-25T12:00:00Z")

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sadly I've been forced in to this situation. I woke up to my Ma's car alarm...a neighbor drove in reverse a 1995 bronco(a tank)into my 04 Mercedes C230 crashing in to my Ma's 1999 Saab moving them both 2 car lengths(good…

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## [Fuel economy vs. throwout bearing](https://community.cartalk.com/t/fuel-economy-vs-throwout-bearing/64022)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@ChicagoRob](https://community.cartalk.com/u/ChicagoRob)\
**Replies:** 9\
**Last updated:** [April 24, 2011, 11:58pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/fuel-economy-vs-throwout-bearing/64022 "2011-04-24T23:58:10Z")

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I have a dilemma I hope will be resolved with some advice. Firstly, I drive a Camry, but not just any Camry. I drive a 1997 V6 Camry with 5 speed manual transmission. That was the last year (I'm told) you could get th…

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## [Salvage motor](https://community.cartalk.com/t/salvage-motor/64028)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@tiog4life666](https://community.cartalk.com/u/tiog4life666)\
**Replies:** 2\
**Last updated:** [April 24, 2011, 10:32pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/salvage-motor/64028 "2011-04-24T22:32:56Z")

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i have a 1992 geo tracker that i had smashed up with a backhoe. i heard from a guy that i could have salvaged the motor for $1200. Do you think that is true and if so where could i salvage it if its still good?

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## [Optimum fuel saving speed](https://community.cartalk.com/t/optimum-fuel-saving-speed/63984)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@w4murw4mur](https://community.cartalk.com/u/w4murw4mur)\
**Replies:** 26\
**Last updated:** [April 24, 2011, 5:46pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/optimum-fuel-saving-speed/63984 "2011-04-24T17:46:59Z")

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Has anyone done any scientific research on what the optimum speed for maximum fuel efficiency is? I hear things like "every x mph above 60 mph uses y% more fuel" but I suspect it is just someone's opinion. Is 60 mph …

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## [Can you recommend a used car dealership in Chicago?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/can-you-recommend-a-used-car-dealership-in-chicago/56124)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@Reodor](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Reodor)\
**Replies:** 5\
**Last updated:** [April 24, 2011, 12:09pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/can-you-recommend-a-used-car-dealership-in-chicago/56124 "2011-04-24T12:09:49Z")

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I am a European who has moved to Chicago for a nine month period. I need a car, and wanted to see if I could find a dealership that could take care of insurance for me and hopefully buy the car back from me for an OK pri…

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## [An ephipany while using my Coleman stove](https://community.cartalk.com/t/an-ephipany-while-using-my-coleman-stove/64008)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@meanjoe75fan](https://community.cartalk.com/u/meanjoe75fan)\
**Replies:** 3\
**Last updated:** [April 24, 2011, 12:00pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/an-ephipany-while-using-my-coleman-stove/64008 "2011-04-24T12:00:26Z")

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I finally swapped out the gas generator on my '88 Colman two-burner for a dual-fuel one. (It was time, too: it was putting out a yellow, sooty flame that no amount of cleaning fixed.) Anyhow, I noticed that the soot…

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## [New car MPG](https://community.cartalk.com/t/new-car-mpg/63991)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@MysticStar57](https://community.cartalk.com/u/MysticStar57)\
**Replies:** 5\
**Last updated:** [April 24, 2011, 2:45am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/new-car-mpg/63991 "2011-04-24T02:45:39Z")

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I have a question that no one has been able to answer. I have a 1980 Chevrolet Monza that I bought brand new. The car is a standard shift, carburated, engine, 4 cylinder, NO computer, it weighs 2,800 pounds, it's been …

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## [Crossover Camper](https://community.cartalk.com/t/crossover-camper/63970)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@crizmon](https://community.cartalk.com/u/crizmon)\
**Replies:** 4\
**Last updated:** [April 23, 2011, 7:58pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/crossover-camper/63970 "2011-04-23T19:58:26Z")

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I have been driving a full size van where I can have a bed and a place for my bike and camping gear. The van is aging and I need a new vehicle. I need suggestions - I still want room to sleep (I am over 6 feet tall…

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## [Fuel comsumption2](https://community.cartalk.com/t/fuel-comsumption2/63924)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@armando](https://community.cartalk.com/u/armando)\
**Replies:** 3\
**Last updated:** [April 23, 2011, 10:11am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/fuel-comsumption2/63924 "2011-04-23T10:11:31Z")

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what is the ratio of fuel consumption of the 4k engine with 4k carburetor and the 3a-u engine using a 4k carburetor?

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## [Advice regarding AWD cars](https://community.cartalk.com/t/advice-regarding-awd-cars/63764)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@somenamehere](https://community.cartalk.com/u/somenamehere)\
**Replies:** 15\
**Last updated:** [April 23, 2011, 2:56am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/advice-regarding-awd-cars/63764 "2011-04-23T02:56:00Z")

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I am trying to decide on what kind of AWD car might suit me best. We get a good amount of snow and being in the country, the roads do not get plowed that often (and not immediately) and the drive to my house from the mai…

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## [Digital readout gas gauge?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/digital-readout-gas-gauge/63875)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@Kevingets](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Kevingets)\
**Replies:** 6\
**Last updated:** [April 22, 2011, 10:38pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/digital-readout-gas-gauge/63875 "2011-04-22T22:38:13Z")

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Is there a digital readout gas gauge so that when I am driving down the road I can see exactly how much fuel is in the tank

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