# General Discussion **URL:** https://community.cartalk.com/c/general-discussion/8.md?page=440 [Latest](https://community.cartalk.com/latest.md) · [Categories](https://community.cartalk.com/categories.md) · [Tags](https://community.cartalk.com/tags.md) **Page:** 441 --- ## [Grades of Gasoline](https://community.cartalk.com/t/grades-of-gasoline/48448)
**Author:** [@mmeyers](https://community.cartalk.com/u/mmeyers)\ **Replies:** 5\ **Last updated:** [May 7, 2010, 2:14am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/grades-of-gasoline/48448 "2010-05-07T02:14:44Z")
A loyal reader of the Wisconsin State Journal in Madison, WI wrote in asking: I live in the mid-west where our grades of gasoline are rated 87, 89 and 92 octane. My car's owner's manual says to use 87 octane, the … --- ## [Can you open a car door with a tennis ball?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/can-you-open-a-car-door-with-a-tennis-ball/48438)
**Author:** [@Octoberprairie](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Octoberprairie)\ **Replies:** 15\ **Last updated:** [May 6, 2010, 9:49pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/can-you-open-a-car-door-with-a-tennis-ball/48438 "2010-05-06T21:49:27Z")
(I think I could with a bowling ball...) There's a video floating around showing a foxy young blonde opening a car door by putting a tennis ball with a hole in it over the lock and pushing. Apparently the air pressure… --- ## [Should I put a tow package on my](https://community.cartalk.com/t/should-i-put-a-tow-package-on-my/48412)
**Author:** [@manley99](https://community.cartalk.com/u/manley99)\ **Replies:** 12\ **Last updated:** [May 6, 2010, 5:37pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/should-i-put-a-tow-package-on-my/48412 "2010-05-06T17:37:28Z")
I have a 2005 Chrysler Town and Country with Stow and Go seating. It currently does not have a tow package on it. I just purchased a small 16 foot bass boat and need something to pull it to the lake. Should I put … --- ## [Hub bearings](https://community.cartalk.com/t/hub-bearings/48437)
**Author:** [@dmcalvin](https://community.cartalk.com/u/dmcalvin)\ **Replies:** 6\ **Last updated:** [May 5, 2010, 8:00pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/hub-bearings/48437 "2010-05-05T20:00:26Z")
I took my 2004 Monte Carlo SS in for tire rotation and was told I needed my front hub bearings replaced. They said that my vehicle was notorious for the bearings going bad. Can anyone confirm this? --- ## [Changing a tire](https://community.cartalk.com/t/changing-a-tire/48247)
**Author:** [@Perv2820](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Perv2820)\ **Replies:** 16\ **Last updated:** [May 5, 2010, 6:16pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/changing-a-tire/48247 "2010-05-05T18:16:24Z")
It has been my long held belief that anyone driving a car should know how to safely change a flat tire. If not physically able to do it, at least know where the jack is located and proper safety prcedures. Years ago, … --- ## [New car, long distance; old car, short distance; or other way round](https://community.cartalk.com/t/new-car-long-distance-old-car-short-distance-or-other-way-round/48338)
**Author:** [@jeffspc88mx](https://community.cartalk.com/u/jeffspc88mx)\ **Replies:** 10\ **Last updated:** [May 5, 2010, 5:34pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/new-car-long-distance-old-car-short-distance-or-other-way-round/48338 "2010-05-05T17:34:04Z")
I have a new vehicle and an old vehicle. My wife commutes 18 miles through the city (no freeway). I commute 66 miles over mostly freeway. In terms of vehicle longevity, which car should take the long freeway commute… --- ## [The Pittsburgh Left: How does everyone else manage?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/the-pittsburgh-left-how-does-everyone-else-manage/48307)
**Author:** [@meanjoe75fan](https://community.cartalk.com/u/meanjoe75fan)\ **Replies:** 15\ **Last updated:** [May 5, 2010, 4:22pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/the-pittsburgh-left-how-does-everyone-else-manage/48307 "2010-05-05T16:22:16Z")
Okay, for the unfamiliar, here is the basics of the P.L.: Imagine a 4-way intersection with a light. The light has no left turn arrows; the intersection, no dedicated left turn lane. It's rush hour and there are car… --- ## [Older Volvo SUV vs Saab SUV?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/older-volvo-suv-vs-saab-suv/28243)
**Author:** [@danioma3](https://community.cartalk.com/u/danioma3)\ **Replies:** 6\ **Last updated:** [May 3, 2010, 10:58pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/older-volvo-suv-vs-saab-suv/28243 "2010-05-03T22:58:46Z")
I am looking at '05's & '06's - any preference? --- ## [Buying from Carmax](https://community.cartalk.com/t/buying-from-carmax/48321)
**Author:** [@Fiddlemuse](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Fiddlemuse)\ **Replies:** 4\ **Last updated:** [May 3, 2010, 9:43pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/buying-from-carmax/48321 "2010-05-03T21:43:58Z")
I know I'm s'possed to take the vehicle to my mechanic and have him check it out. Should I ask the carmax folks if I can do this. the car has 33,000 miles ( 2009 , executive fleet ) and looks great , but should I still i… --- ## [Hybrid Battery- in it for the long haul?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/hybrid-battery-in-it-for-the-long-haul/47131)
**Author:** [@mctuna](https://community.cartalk.com/u/mctuna)\ **Replies:** 11\ **Last updated:** [May 3, 2010, 9:17pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/hybrid-battery-in-it-for-the-long-haul/47131 "2010-05-03T21:17:27Z")
How well will the batteries on a hybrid car hold up with light usage of the car? I put 3,000 miles on a car a year and my car can sit for days without being run. Is the lack of use detrimental to the battery performanc… --- ## [Windshield Wiper Motor Parts from the French](https://community.cartalk.com/t/windshield-wiper-motor-parts-from-the-french/48326)
**Author:** [@accuratewords](https://community.cartalk.com/u/accuratewords)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [May 3, 2010, 5:18pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/windshield-wiper-motor-parts-from-the-french/48326 "2010-05-03T17:18:52Z")
I'm a translator stumped by a colleague's request for help with French automotive terminology. I've been researching and this term does not seem to exist: "pastille de respiration." What could it possibly be in English… --- ## [Tyre press indication](https://community.cartalk.com/t/tyre-press-indication/48315)
**Author:** [@BAHAAMAGLAD](https://community.cartalk.com/u/BAHAAMAGLAD)\ **Replies:** 4\ **Last updated:** [May 3, 2010, 3:50pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/tyre-press-indication/48315 "2010-05-03T15:50:26Z")
i have a tahoe chevrolet 2007 model, the right hand rear tyre allways read 23 psi, tyre swapped but still, right hand rear tyre still reading 23 psi. what would be the cause and the fix please ? --- ## [Difference between 2010 & 2009 Prius?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/difference-between-2010-2009-prius/46217)
**Author:** [@horseladyjune](https://community.cartalk.com/u/horseladyjune)\ **Replies:** 31\ **Last updated:** [May 3, 2010, 3:44am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/difference-between-2010-2009-prius/46217 "2010-05-03T03:44:33Z")
Was considering leasing a new Prius until the recent recall up through the 2009 models. Were the 2010's not recalled because they are immune to the troubles for some reason? Currently have '98 RAV4, and would get t… --- ## [FORTE EX (Old Spectra5)](https://community.cartalk.com/t/forte-ex-old-spectra5/48239)
**Author:** [@RAYThOM](https://community.cartalk.com/u/RAYThOM)\ **Replies:** 9\ **Last updated:** [May 3, 2010, 1:12am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/forte-ex-old-spectra5/48239 "2010-05-03T01:12:26Z")
My '10 Forte EX came standard with satellite radio. Sirius... a nice concept but who needs the extra cost? Anyway, can anyone tell me if this radio can be rechipped/reprogrammed to receive HD radio or would that require … --- ## [Toyota Camry or Subaru Forester](https://community.cartalk.com/t/toyota-camry-or-subaru-forester/48256)
**Author:** [@sidsalscar](https://community.cartalk.com/u/sidsalscar)\ **Replies:** 7\ **Last updated:** [May 3, 2010, 1:00am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/toyota-camry-or-subaru-forester/48256 "2010-05-03T01:00:24Z")
I have a 2000 Forester with 126K miles and some issues. My dad is offering to trade me his 2004 Camry with 140K that seems fine. I really like the all wheel drive and space of the Forester, but I must admit I feel like… --- ## [Trouble starting](https://community.cartalk.com/t/trouble-starting/48289)
**Author:** [@petermunk](https://community.cartalk.com/u/petermunk)\ **Replies:** 2\ **Last updated:** [May 2, 2010, 11:47pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/trouble-starting/48289 "2010-05-02T23:47:59Z")
I have a 79 Alfa Romeo spider that is in mint condition with only 15,000 original miles. I start if religiously all winter and it turns over like a champ. But on a nice sunny day if I drive it to work and it sits in the… --- ## [Car Insurance - potential total loss](https://community.cartalk.com/t/car-insurance-potential-total-loss/48150)
**Author:** [@sciconf](https://community.cartalk.com/u/sciconf)\ **Replies:** 17\ **Last updated:** [May 2, 2010, 12:30am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/car-insurance-potential-total-loss/48150 "2010-05-02T00:30:45Z")
I am with Geico - thinking that I might loose the car either theft or ... is a financial hardship - a 2000 Integra. Because they try to use a 3rd party to undermine the value of the car - for what they give, I can… --- ## [Cars that are long lived](https://community.cartalk.com/t/cars-that-are-long-lived/48060)
**Author:** [@George\_Smiley](https://community.cartalk.com/u/George_Smiley)\ **Replies:** 19\ **Last updated:** [May 2, 2010, 12:28am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/cars-that-are-long-lived/48060 "2010-05-02T00:28:37Z")
I?m looking for a new car with qualities that aren't typically commented on. Can you recommend a few cars to look at? I could be facing retirement within 5 years and want a car (and a warranty) that is long lived. … --- ## [Dupont paint protection](https://community.cartalk.com/t/dupont-paint-protection/48207)
**Author:** [@lmuise](https://community.cartalk.com/u/lmuise)\ **Replies:** 5\ **Last updated:** [May 1, 2010, 11:20pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/dupont-paint-protection/48207 "2010-05-01T23:20:56Z")
how do i confirm the protection(new car) was applied? absent any documentation or sticker that i could find.thank you,larry --- ## [Old Gas?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/old-gas/48136)
**Author:** [@alaninmaine](https://community.cartalk.com/u/alaninmaine)\ **Replies:** 14\ **Last updated:** [May 1, 2010, 3:22pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/old-gas/48136 "2010-05-01T15:22:47Z")
I am going away for 6 weeks and want to know whether I should leave my gas tank full or nearly empty and if I should upgrade to premium fuel if leaving it for the summer in Pennsylvania. --- ## [Help!](https://community.cartalk.com/t/help/48137)
**Author:** [@grammalinda](https://community.cartalk.com/u/grammalinda)\ **Replies:** 13\ **Last updated:** [April 30, 2010, 10:59pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/help/48137 "2010-04-30T22:59:15Z")
I am writing a novel and need to know: How tall can you be and still be able to drive a VW Beetle (1970's model)?????? --- ## [Intensive driving instruction](https://community.cartalk.com/t/intensive-driving-instruction/47957)
**Author:** [@MaryFinIndiana](https://community.cartalk.com/u/MaryFinIndiana)\ **Replies:** 9\ **Last updated:** [April 30, 2010, 4:19pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/intensive-driving-instruction/47957 "2010-04-30T16:19:18Z")
My 23-year-old son graduates from college soon (yay!). For a graduation gift, I would like to send him to some sort of performance driving school. Most of what I have found on-line is either oriented toward race trainin… --- ## [Stick Shift Cars vs. Automatics](https://community.cartalk.com/t/stick-shift-cars-vs-automatics/47299)
**Author:** [@ichoosestick305](https://community.cartalk.com/u/ichoosestick305)\ **Replies:** 129\ **Last updated:** [April 30, 2010, 3:18pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/stick-shift-cars-vs-automatics/47299 "2010-04-30T15:18:49Z")
I am doing a research paper on why stick shift cars are fading out in the United States. From personal experience, I believe manual transmission cars to be superior to automatics for a variety of reasons, but was wonderi… --- ## [Need to pick a new car](https://community.cartalk.com/t/need-to-pick-a-new-car/48070)
**Author:** [@aleese](https://community.cartalk.com/u/aleese)\ **Replies:** 11\ **Last updated:** [April 30, 2010, 2:22pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/need-to-pick-a-new-car/48070 "2010-04-30T14:22:34Z")
I own a now-non-starting 1998 Ford Windstar. My husband and I are the original owners. We live in Brooklyn, NY and keep our car on the street. We no longer need a big car (kids grown, dog dead...) but we do need a car … --- ## [Attention webmaster: re. links at top of page](https://community.cartalk.com/t/attention-webmaster-re-links-at-top-of-page/47991)
**Author:** [@circuitsmith](https://community.cartalk.com/u/circuitsmith)\ **Replies:** 12\ **Last updated:** [April 29, 2010, 11:02pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/attention-webmaster-re-links-at-top-of-page/47991 "2010-04-29T23:02:39Z")
It would help if these links were in multiple columns. That would remove the expanse of red and triple space efficiency. As it is I just can't deal with it any more. --- ## [Used car for around $5,000](https://community.cartalk.com/t/used-car-for-around-5-000/48091)
**Author:** [@areyouaturtle](https://community.cartalk.com/u/areyouaturtle)\ **Replies:** 12\ **Last updated:** [April 29, 2010, 3:24pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/used-car-for-around-5-000/48091 "2010-04-29T15:24:39Z")
I am going back to school and need to save some money. I would like a reliable used car for around $5,000 that I hopefully will not have to put much money into over the next few years. What should I look for? When d… --- ## [Selecting right tye size](https://community.cartalk.com/t/selecting-right-tye-size/48080)
**Author:** [@maancartalk](https://community.cartalk.com/u/maancartalk)\ **Replies:** 4\ **Last updated:** [April 29, 2010, 10:20am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/selecting-right-tye-size/48080 "2010-04-29T10:20:34Z")
I have a 1991 honda accord altered its original engine with toyota 2000 d turbo and its automatic gear box with a compatible 5 speed gear box. plz suggest me the right rim size and tyre size so to get good optimum perfor… --- ## [Ford Fiesta 2011](https://community.cartalk.com/t/ford-fiesta-2011/47993)
**Author:** [@antfu59](https://community.cartalk.com/u/antfu59)\ **Replies:** 17\ **Last updated:** [April 28, 2010, 5:55pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/ford-fiesta-2011/47993 "2010-04-28T17:55:15Z")
Just wondering whether this is really a good choice, especially for new drivers and in snowy winter weather? Thanks --- ## [Can You Identify this Car](https://community.cartalk.com/t/can-you-identify-this-car/48011)
**Author:** [@plevakas](https://community.cartalk.com/u/plevakas)\ **Replies:** 15\ **Last updated:** [April 28, 2010, 4:18pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/can-you-identify-this-car/48011 "2010-04-28T16:18:38Z")
I own garages in Philadelphia, PA that are rented to a number of car owners. I have a delinquent tenant who's car I may need to sell If he does not remove it from the garage. I need an identification and a value on this … --- ## [Selecting right tye size](https://community.cartalk.com/t/selecting-right-tye-size/48081)
**Author:** [@maancartalk](https://community.cartalk.com/u/maancartalk)\ **Replies:** 1\ **Last updated:** [April 28, 2010, 12:27pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/selecting-right-tye-size/48081 "2010-04-28T12:27:14Z")
I want to know about the performance of toyota 2000 d turbo engine on a 1991 make honda accord along with an altered compatible 5 speed gear box. In terms of BHP, cc, top speed, etc. [Previous page](https://community.cartalk.com/c/general-discussion/8.md?page=439) [Next page](https://community.cartalk.com/c/general-discussion/8.md?page=441)