# General Discussion **URL:** https://community.cartalk.com/c/general-discussion/8.md?page=459 [Latest](https://community.cartalk.com/latest.md) · [Categories](https://community.cartalk.com/categories.md) · [Tags](https://community.cartalk.com/tags.md) **Page:** 460 --- ## [I want to buy a used PT Cruiser, in Montreal - some opinions would be appreciated](https://community.cartalk.com/t/i-want-to-buy-a-used-pt-cruiser-in-montreal-some-opinions-would-be-appreciated/40379)
**Author:** [@violet0019](https://community.cartalk.com/u/violet0019)\ **Replies:** 17\ **Last updated:** [December 7, 2009, 3:10am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/i-want-to-buy-a-used-pt-cruiser-in-montreal-some-opinions-would-be-appreciated/40379 "2009-12-07T03:10:30Z")
I want to purchase a used PT Cruiser. I love the looks of this car, plus, as I have a medical condition - I find that the seat is very comfortable and this is very important for me. I live in Montreal, Canada where w… --- ## [Brain Pool: "Experts Needed" Please!](https://community.cartalk.com/t/brain-pool-experts-needed-please/40218)
**Author:** [@common-sense-answer](https://community.cartalk.com/u/common-sense-answer)\ **Replies:** 45\ **Last updated:** [December 6, 2009, 8:15pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/brain-pool-experts-needed-please/40218 "2009-12-06T20:15:52Z")
I recently posted a discussion suggesting that it would be interesting for Tom & Ray to tap our "experts" on this site to enhance their show, kind of a "Phone An Expert" thing. Link:http://community.cartalk.com/pos… --- ## [Brake Hose lengths](https://community.cartalk.com/t/brake-hose-lengths/40401)
**Author:** [@j1thoma1](https://community.cartalk.com/u/j1thoma1)\ **Replies:** 1\ **Last updated:** [December 6, 2009, 6:15am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/brake-hose-lengths/40401 "2009-12-06T06:15:45Z")
I am a Doctoral student trying to predict the shape of brake hoses in cars and SUVs. I would be grateful if you would let me know the most common lengths of hoses for these vehicles. I have considered hose lengths of 11i… --- ## [Need a used "station wagon" to fit 6'4" driver and piece of plywood](https://community.cartalk.com/t/need-a-used-station-wagon-to-fit-64-driver-and-piece-of-plywood/40173)
**Author:** [@carhope](https://community.cartalk.com/u/carhope)\ **Replies:** 17\ **Last updated:** [December 5, 2009, 6:38pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/need-a-used-station-wagon-to-fit-64-driver-and-piece-of-plywood/40173 "2009-12-05T18:38:43Z")
Hoping to find something used in the $6-8K price range that has decent gas mileage and that fits a tall person and a full 4X8 piece of plywood - unfortunately, the Matrix/Vibe isn't quite big enough for the plywood. … --- ## [Looking for a replacement mug](https://community.cartalk.com/t/looking-for-a-replacement-mug/40370)
**Author:** [@poorjohn](https://community.cartalk.com/u/poorjohn)\ **Replies:** 2\ **Last updated:** [December 5, 2009, 3:59pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/looking-for-a-replacement-mug/40370 "2009-12-05T15:59:55Z")
Right up there in importance with losing my brakes on the downhill side, I broke my mug - the dark blue one with the signoff text on it. They're obviously out of stock here, and my trusted source fleaBay doesn't have any… --- ## [Duramax diesels](https://community.cartalk.com/t/duramax-diesels/40195)
**Author:** [@wirenut3](https://community.cartalk.com/u/wirenut3)\ **Replies:** 10\ **Last updated:** [December 5, 2009, 1:26pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/duramax-diesels/40195 "2009-12-05T13:26:02Z")
has three been any changes to the duramax diesel engines over the years that reduce the fuel economy, like adding a after burner or any thing like that and what year did it take place. --- ## [Automotive Questions](https://community.cartalk.com/t/automotive-questions/40269)
**Author:** [@Terry\_Lucas](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Terry_Lucas)\ **Replies:** 10\ **Last updated:** [December 5, 2009, 1:02pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/automotive-questions/40269 "2009-12-05T13:02:36Z")
What is used on the cylinder walls of modern aluminum engine blocks to enhance life & reliability? Is it the casting material, or a cast iron or steel sleeve or liner, or a material plating or coating such as ?Nikasil? … --- ## [Coasting or in-gear: Scenario #2](https://community.cartalk.com/t/coasting-or-in-gear-scenario-2/40293)
**Author:** [@kinosh](https://community.cartalk.com/u/kinosh)\ **Replies:** 20\ **Last updated:** [December 4, 2009, 11:19pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/coasting-or-in-gear-scenario-2/40293 "2009-12-04T23:19:57Z")
Lots of debate on moderate hills, but what about very steep hills (12% grade, speed limit of 50 mph) with a stop sign at the bottom? Coasting would be a bad idea, so how would you drive with a 5-speed? Downshift to 4th… --- ## [Car Security Alarm - Recommendations?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/car-security-alarm-recommendations/40166)
**Author:** [@sciconf](https://community.cartalk.com/u/sciconf)\ **Replies:** 29\ **Last updated:** [December 4, 2009, 10:00pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/car-security-alarm-recommendations/40166 "2009-12-04T22:00:25Z")
It seems Honda's are easy to get in especially older models. I am thinking of an alarm - is this a good idea? If so what features do I need in this alarm? I appreciate a recommendation for a product. Ar… --- ## [How often to wash a car in Winter?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/how-often-to-wash-a-car-in-winter/40065)
**Author:** [@snowflaque](https://community.cartalk.com/u/snowflaque)\ **Replies:** 13\ **Last updated:** [December 4, 2009, 8:37pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/how-often-to-wash-a-car-in-winter/40065 "2009-12-04T20:37:44Z")
I had my car detailed, and detailer said infrequent washing was best for car in winter. I live in Minnesota. He believes that water penetrates window seals and leads to eventual door rust This sounded nuts to me … --- ## [The Pope's limousine](https://community.cartalk.com/t/the-popes-limousine/40338)
**Author:** [@Z69105](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Z69105)\ **Replies:** 2\ **Last updated:** [December 4, 2009, 4:23pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/the-popes-limousine/40338 "2009-12-04T16:23:45Z")
What is the official name of the Pope's automobile - the one that looks like a sede gestatoria on the back of a Mercedes? It's my understanding that HH John Paul II of blessed memory considered the term "Popemobile" to … --- ## [Audi misfiring](https://community.cartalk.com/t/audi-misfiring/40318)
**Author:** [@jamaicaman](https://community.cartalk.com/u/jamaicaman)\ **Replies:** 2\ **Last updated:** [December 4, 2009, 3:55pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/audi-misfiring/40318 "2009-12-04T15:55:34Z")
My 1998 Audi A6 sometimes feels like it is only running on three or four cylinders . the enginge light comes on and starts flashing...last week the exhaust got really hot when this happened and the mechanic said it got u… --- ## [Can anyone Identify this Car](https://community.cartalk.com/t/can-anyone-identify-this-car/40307)
**Author:** [@Highlands](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Highlands)\ **Replies:** 20\ **Last updated:** [December 3, 2009, 10:35pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/can-anyone-identify-this-car/40307 "2009-12-03T22:35:28Z")
I am writing a book on the lady in the picture. She came here from Germany and brought with her the harlequin Great Dane. All our American harlequins go back to this ladies dogs. She is pictured here in Nurnburg with a B… --- ## [Partial front grill cover for winter](https://community.cartalk.com/t/partial-front-grill-cover-for-winter/38944)
**Author:** [@circuitsmith](https://community.cartalk.com/u/circuitsmith)\ **Replies:** 35\ **Last updated:** [December 3, 2009, 12:38am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/partial-front-grill-cover-for-winter/38944 "2009-12-03T00:38:59Z")
I blocked off the lower grill for the winter in hopes of warming up the engine quicker. A piece of black foamcore 4x30" behind the grill: http://mys...0916s.jpg http://mys...T0916d.jpg I'm hoping to save a lit… --- ## [Honda Insight Snow Tires](https://community.cartalk.com/t/honda-insight-snow-tires/40268)
**Author:** [@SHERMAN3](https://community.cartalk.com/u/SHERMAN3)\ **Replies:** 2\ **Last updated:** [December 2, 2009, 4:51pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/honda-insight-snow-tires/40268 "2009-12-02T16:51:52Z")
I would like to put snow tires on my Honda Insight but do not know if I will need 2 or 4 tires (?). Also, I want to put the same size tires on as the current ones (especially if I only purchase 2 tires) -- are 165/65R14 … --- ## [Time for a New Car?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/time-for-a-new-car/40152)
**Author:** [@penpaper](https://community.cartalk.com/u/penpaper)\ **Replies:** 11\ **Last updated:** [December 1, 2009, 10:52pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/time-for-a-new-car/40152 "2009-12-01T22:52:54Z")
My Toyota RAV4 is 11 years old and has 154,000 miles on it. I had to replace the computer last year at this time and the water pump was replaced in early 2008. Just last month, the thermostat was replaced and the water … --- ## [Snow Tire Size](https://community.cartalk.com/t/snow-tire-size/40172)
**Author:** [@slc\_mom](https://community.cartalk.com/u/slc_mom)\ **Replies:** 7\ **Last updated:** [December 1, 2009, 8:57pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/snow-tire-size/40172 "2009-12-01T20:57:58Z")
Tire Rack suggests buying snow tires slightly smaller that my OE size for my VW Passat Wagon. 195/65-15 instead of 205/55-16 Any thoughts on whether this is a good idea? The smaller ones are cheaper. --- ## [Tom & Ray, Is It Time For "The Home" Or "Phone A Friend"?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/tom-ray-is-it-time-for-the-home-or-phone-a-friend/39516)
**Author:** [@common-sense-answer](https://community.cartalk.com/u/common-sense-answer)\ **Replies:** 10\ **Last updated:** [December 1, 2009, 1:45pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/tom-ray-is-it-time-for-the-home-or-phone-a-friend/39516 "2009-12-01T13:45:58Z")
When Capri Racer, a knowledgeable car guy and tire expert, responded to Tom and Ray's recent "Howard from San Francisco" segment, It got me thinking. http://act...32096.page I don't want any one to feel badly if I'v… --- ## [PS HELP!.....Audi A6 or Acura TSX](https://community.cartalk.com/t/ps-help-audi-a6-or-acura-tsx/40147)
**Author:** [@papabedu](https://community.cartalk.com/u/papabedu)\ **Replies:** 12\ **Last updated:** [December 1, 2009, 2:11am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/ps-help-audi-a6-or-acura-tsx/40147 "2009-12-01T02:11:31Z")
I need help making a decision. So about 2yrs ago, my honda civic died on me. In the process of buying a new car, I got an incredible deal on a 2006 Audi A6 and I jumped at it. However, I am comtemplating trading it… --- ## [At 105 mph, 2008 Expedition loses power](https://community.cartalk.com/t/at-105-mph-2008-expedition-loses-power/39351)
**Author:** [@Robert-Gift](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Robert-Gift)\ **Replies:** 181\ **Last updated:** [November 30, 2009, 7:35pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/at-105-mph-2008-expedition-loses-power/39351 "2009-11-30T19:35:37Z")
Is there a governer which prevents exceeding 105 mph? I was going downgrade, straight and dry pavement on I-70. Engine RPM was not high because not much load going downhill. Thank you. --- ## [Got A Minute? Want To Take A Driving Skills Test?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/got-a-minute-want-to-take-a-driving-skills-test/40066)
**Author:** [@common-sense-answer](https://community.cartalk.com/u/common-sense-answer)\ **Replies:** 18\ **Last updated:** [November 30, 2009, 6:22pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/got-a-minute-want-to-take-a-driving-skills-test/40066 "2009-11-30T18:22:27Z")
Click This link: http://mon...?gt1=33004 How'd you do? CSA --- ## [Amateur harpist needs used car ideas](https://community.cartalk.com/t/amateur-harpist-needs-used-car-ideas/39908)
**Author:** [@JenB99](https://community.cartalk.com/u/JenB99)\ **Replies:** 27\ **Last updated:** [November 30, 2009, 2:10am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/amateur-harpist-needs-used-car-ideas/39908 "2009-11-30T02:10:38Z")
My husband and I are looking to purchase a used car for me. The max we can spend is $5K. We'd like a reliable, safe automatic with good gas mileage (average 30 MPG or better). It would be a nice bonus if we could … --- ## [Selecting new vehicle](https://community.cartalk.com/t/selecting-new-vehicle/40102)
**Author:** [@natural56](https://community.cartalk.com/u/natural56)\ **Replies:** 16\ **Last updated:** [November 30, 2009, 12:22am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/selecting-new-vehicle/40102 "2009-11-30T00:22:56Z")
I've had both a Grand Caravan (without seats for my business) and a Prius (for travel) for 5 years. Now I'd like to get back to one vehicle. Are there any suggetions for a vehicle with a lot of interior space that gets… --- ## [Will using a higher octane damage my engine?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/will-using-a-higher-octane-damage-my-engine/40120)
**Author:** [@sjb5001](https://community.cartalk.com/u/sjb5001)\ **Replies:** 13\ **Last updated:** [November 30, 2009, 12:01am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/will-using-a-higher-octane-damage-my-engine/40120 "2009-11-30T00:01:30Z")
I have a 2007 Toyota Yaris with a little over 30,000 miles on it. Over the past year or so I've noticed some slight pinging when getting up to speed on the highway or climbing hills, but since last week the engine began … --- ## [Auto insurance in texas](https://community.cartalk.com/t/auto-insurance-in-texas/40013)
**Author:** [@sbliebenberg](https://community.cartalk.com/u/sbliebenberg)\ **Replies:** 11\ **Last updated:** [November 29, 2009, 10:15pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/auto-insurance-in-texas/40013 "2009-11-29T22:15:54Z")
Can you insure your car after insurance company declares it totaled in TEXAS? Car is 10 years old and I want to buy it back but don't know whether I can get it insured. --- ## [Engine performance chip](https://community.cartalk.com/t/engine-performance-chip/40012)
**Author:** [@Al\_Evans](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Al_Evans)\ **Replies:** 11\ **Last updated:** [November 29, 2009, 6:05am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/engine-performance-chip/40012 "2009-11-29T06:05:27Z")
I have a 2004 GMC Envoy with a 6 cyl. 4.2 liter engine. Although its 3.42 ratio rear & towing package, is said to be capable of towing 5,300 lbs, I can not quite maintain 55 mph on level ground in 4th gear while towing m… --- ## [Suggestion/Help](https://community.cartalk.com/t/suggestion-help/40097)
**Author:** [@jessyxav](https://community.cartalk.com/u/jessyxav)\ **Replies:** 1\ **Last updated:** [November 28, 2009, 7:45pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/suggestion-help/40097 "2009-11-28T19:45:36Z")
2002 Hyundai XG350 - Problem While driving the car slows down and the RPM decreases even when the accelerator is pressed. To correct the problem I have to slow down or change to neutral to let the engine return to the … --- ## [Vovlo Keyless FOB - Is Our Car Safe?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/vovlo-keyless-fob-is-our-car-safe/40037)
**Author:** [@rick\_vdl](https://community.cartalk.com/u/rick_vdl)\ **Replies:** 2\ **Last updated:** [November 28, 2009, 6:35am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/vovlo-keyless-fob-is-our-car-safe/40037 "2009-11-28T06:35:00Z")
Does anyone know how secure the Keyless FOB for a 2008 Volvo C70 is? My girlfriend recently had her car stolen - the police did find it abandoned, but now we're a little freaked out. How safe is our car from would-be t… --- ## [What's that song](https://community.cartalk.com/t/whats-that-song/40056)
**Author:** [@keith](https://community.cartalk.com/u/keith)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [November 28, 2009, 3:11am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/whats-that-song/40056 "2009-11-28T03:11:34Z")
What is that song used in the background of the Chrysler 300 commercial? Who is the artist? --- ## [25,000 MIle Oil Change](https://community.cartalk.com/t/25-000-mile-oil-change/40024)
**Author:** [@system](https://community.cartalk.com/u/system)\ **Replies:** 6\ **Last updated:** [November 27, 2009, 3:43am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/25-000-mile-oil-change/40024 "2009-11-27T03:43:51Z")
25,000 mile report \[image\]ACCOUNT NUMBER OILANA078\*\*\*\*\* DATE SAMPLED N/A DATE RECEIVED 11/12/09 DATE COMPLETED 11/13/09 TRACKING #: 09090E01\*\*\*\* MANUFACTURER/MODEL: TOYOTA 4.7L LUBE MFR: AMSOIL LUB… [Previous page](https://community.cartalk.com/c/general-discussion/8.md?page=458) [Next page](https://community.cartalk.com/c/general-discussion/8.md?page=460)