# General Discussion

**URL:** https://community.cartalk.com/c/general-discussion/8.md?page=462

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

**Page:** 463

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## [Storage](https://community.cartalk.com/t/storage/39057)

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**Author:** [@Norway](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Norway)\
**Replies:** 8\
**Last updated:** [November 9, 2009, 1:30am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/storage/39057 "2009-11-09T01:30:00Z")

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I need to leave 3 cars, 2 Volvo 860s and a Toyota 4 runner from December through May in Maine. Two can be in an unheated garage, the third outdoors. What do I need to do beyond disconnect the batteries? Do I need to put …

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## [Head On car crash](https://community.cartalk.com/t/head-on-car-crash/39130)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@drjay888](https://community.cartalk.com/u/drjay888)\
**Replies:** 11\
**Last updated:** [November 8, 2009, 1:19am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/head-on-car-crash/39130 "2009-11-08T01:19:48Z")

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If two cars of the same weight (mass), size, shape, etc. hit head on at 50 mph, does that equate to a relative force (for passengers) as if the car was traveling at 100mph? I can understand the relative approach speed…

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## [New used Vibe or other wagon -suggestions?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/new-used-vibe-or-other-wagon-suggestions/39123)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@toyota2](https://community.cartalk.com/u/toyota2)\
**Replies:** 7\
**Last updated:** [November 7, 2009, 8:45pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/new-used-vibe-or-other-wagon-suggestions/39123 "2009-11-07T20:45:58Z")

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I have an old 94 Corolla wagon that is starting to get a bit unreliable (high repair costs lately). I'm thinking of a newer used car/wagon. I drive lots of highway miles (200-300+ per week), less in city. Would like …

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## [Overdrive](https://community.cartalk.com/t/overdrive/39048)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@tiptoe](https://community.cartalk.com/u/tiptoe)\
**Replies:** 17\
**Last updated:** [November 7, 2009, 1:47am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/overdrive/39048 "2009-11-07T01:47:04Z")

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When do I use the overdrive system in my car? Some one said I should put my car in overdrive when I reach a speed of 55mph. Is that true. Or should my overdrive be on all the time? Please help me with this matter.

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## [Leaving all the equipment on](https://community.cartalk.com/t/leaving-all-the-equipment-on/39002)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@LauraSh](https://community.cartalk.com/u/LauraSh)\
**Replies:** 18\
**Last updated:** [November 6, 2009, 10:42pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/leaving-all-the-equipment-on/39002 "2009-11-06T22:42:04Z")

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Along the lines of "Husband needs to put a stop to the way he shifts", my husband leaves the radio, heater on when he turns the car off. That way it heats up when he uses the remote start. I tell him this is bad for th…

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## [MPG better in summer?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/mpg-better-in-summer/39090)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@chesswrangler](https://community.cartalk.com/u/chesswrangler)\
**Replies:** 6\
**Last updated:** [November 6, 2009, 6:07pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/mpg-better-in-summer/39090 "2009-11-06T18:07:58Z")

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I have a 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier and a long commute. I have noticed I get 30-32mpg when the weather is warmer and only 27 - 29 when the weather is colder. No change in driving style, can this just be temperature relate…

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## [What should i get for my next car](https://community.cartalk.com/t/what-should-i-get-for-my-next-car/38982)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@mark15](https://community.cartalk.com/u/mark15)\
**Replies:** 8\
**Last updated:** [November 4, 2009, 10:59pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/what-should-i-get-for-my-next-car/38982 "2009-11-04T22:59:56Z")

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WHAT SHOULD I GET FOR MY NEXT CAR? I WILL BE IN THE MARKET FOR A NEW CAR THIS SPRING OR SUMMER. TELL MY WHAT MAKES MORE SENCE JETTA TDI OR THE MAZDA 3S ON THE OTHER SIDE WHEN IT COMES TIME TO TRADE THESE TWO IN LET'S…

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## [Insurance claim](https://community.cartalk.com/t/insurance-claim/38999)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@cbgsma](https://community.cartalk.com/u/cbgsma)\
**Replies:** 7\
**Last updated:** [November 3, 2009, 11:30pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/insurance-claim/38999 "2009-11-03T23:30:28Z")

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I recently scraped the side of my car against the side of my garage, damaging the front fender. A week later, I got sideswiped in the same area, causing a little more damage. The estimate (from an expensive body shop) …

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## [To buy it or not to buy it](https://community.cartalk.com/t/to-buy-it-or-not-to-buy-it/38986)

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**Author:** [@kweeden](https://community.cartalk.com/u/kweeden)\
**Replies:** 4\
**Last updated:** [November 3, 2009, 5:46pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/to-buy-it-or-not-to-buy-it/38986 "2009-11-03T17:46:01Z")

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I want to downsize from a van to a smaller economical car. I have been offered a 2003 Honda civic hybrid (115,000) in good shape for $5000. Blue book value is 5470. It has been really well maintained, but my husband i…

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## [Old BMWs the 540 vs the 740, advice on which to buy](https://community.cartalk.com/t/old-bmws-the-540-vs-the-740-advice-on-which-to-buy/38961)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@nickyjo68](https://community.cartalk.com/u/nickyjo68)\
**Replies:** 8\
**Last updated:** [November 3, 2009, 2:49pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/old-bmws-the-540-vs-the-740-advice-on-which-to-buy/38961 "2009-11-03T14:49:22Z")

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hi am looking to buy a 1994-95 BMW and dont know if there are significant differences between the 540 and the 740. Any advice?

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## [Selling a Junker - What options are available in Boston?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/selling-a-junker-what-options-are-available-in-boston/38900)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@GreyHawk](https://community.cartalk.com/u/GreyHawk)\
**Replies:** 6\
**Last updated:** [November 3, 2009, 10:17am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/selling-a-junker-what-options-are-available-in-boston/38900 "2009-11-03T10:17:19Z")

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I have a Mazda MX-6 that's been in the driveway for 4+ years; the engine had an oil leak and blew. The tires are now flat (didn't put it up on blocks). Before it died, had just had the brakes done. Now, it's a very larg…

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## [A used Diesel car Vs a Hybrid (perhaps new)](https://community.cartalk.com/t/a-used-diesel-car-vs-a-hybrid-perhaps-new/38962)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@sciconf](https://community.cartalk.com/u/sciconf)\
**Replies:** 5\
**Last updated:** [November 3, 2009, 3:20am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/a-used-diesel-car-vs-a-hybrid-perhaps-new/38962 "2009-11-03T03:20:02Z")

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1) Diesel Someone told me to get a used Diesel as opposed to buying a Insight. What's so special about Diesel? 2) In a previous post here, someone told me not to touch on a used Volvo or VW (didn't recommen…

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## [An Audi or Mercdes](https://community.cartalk.com/t/an-audi-or-mercdes/38964)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@Maresc43](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Maresc43)\
**Replies:** 7\
**Last updated:** [November 3, 2009, 1:50am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/an-audi-or-mercdes/38964 "2009-11-03T01:50:05Z")

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Hi! I am looking to replace my 2004 fully loaded Toyota Sienna minivan with a 7 seater "mini" suv. I am considering an Audi Q7 or the Mercedes GL. If you were purchasing one of these toys which would you buy and why?…

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## [WHAT SHOULD i GET FOR MY NEXT CAR](https://community.cartalk.com/t/what-should-i-get-for-my-next-car/38892)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@mark15](https://community.cartalk.com/u/mark15)\
**Replies:** 12\
**Last updated:** [November 2, 2009, 5:44pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/what-should-i-get-for-my-next-car/38892 "2009-11-02T17:44:51Z")

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I would like to get the all New Jetta fifty state diesel in seven to ten years how easy of a trade in would it be would I be better off with a Mazda 3s four door what is your thinking on that?

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## [10/31 broadcast question re: convertible that overheats](https://community.cartalk.com/t/10-31-broadcast-question-re-convertible-that-overheats/38923)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@Mac\_s\_Fleetwood](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Mac_s_Fleetwood)\
**Replies:** 0\
**Last updated:** [November 1, 2009, 9:34pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/10-31-broadcast-question-re-convertible-that-overheats/38923 "2009-11-01T21:34:41Z")

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Hi Guys: I believe the boyfriend/girlfriend w/the Saab convertible would have smelled that 'sweet smell' if the car had a leak in coolant system. Also, if they simply added antifreeze (ethylene glycol) w/o adding water…

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## [What should I get for my next car?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/what-should-i-get-for-my-next-car/38901)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@mark15](https://community.cartalk.com/u/mark15)\
**Replies:** 0\
**Last updated:** [November 1, 2009, 4:20pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/what-should-i-get-for-my-next-car/38901 "2009-11-01T16:20:10Z")

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I'm ready for my next car this summer I would like to get the 2010 Jetta TDI. in place of the Mazda 3s. then in seven to ten years that I keep a car my Q. is how easy is It meaning the jetta for trade in or do yo…

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## [Cold air intake](https://community.cartalk.com/t/cold-air-intake/38755)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@Quicksilver1958](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Quicksilver1958)\
**Replies:** 11\
**Last updated:** [November 1, 2009, 8:41am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/cold-air-intake/38755 "2009-11-01T08:41:21Z")

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Has anyone ever hear that cold air intake filters help gas mileage.

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## [Moisture on dash](https://community.cartalk.com/t/moisture-on-dash/38854)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@mazdagirl](https://community.cartalk.com/u/mazdagirl)\
**Replies:** 3\
**Last updated:** [October 31, 2009, 10:23pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/moisture-on-dash/38854 "2009-10-31T22:23:05Z")

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I just purchased a 2003 Mazda Protege5. Last night while driving home I noticed moisture on the dash just on top of where the airconditioner and radio sit. I've never seen this in a car before. I did have my aircondition…

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## [Repair manual for 1985 mercury marquis 3.1L station wagon](https://community.cartalk.com/t/repair-manual-for-1985-mercury-marquis-3-1l-station-wagon/38847)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@pvdork](https://community.cartalk.com/u/pvdork)\
**Replies:** 0\
**Last updated:** [October 31, 2009, 3:28pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/repair-manual-for-1985-mercury-marquis-3-1l-station-wagon/38847 "2009-10-31T15:28:48Z")

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please tell me where to get a comprehensive repair manual for my 1985 mercury marquis 3.1L station wagon. also, i am looking for a wiring diagram/schematic for this car. thanks, in advance, for your help. twist

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## [Kudos to Ford](https://community.cartalk.com/t/kudos-to-ford/38824)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@rockstar07](https://community.cartalk.com/u/rockstar07)\
**Replies:** 0\
**Last updated:** [October 30, 2009, 8:46pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/kudos-to-ford/38824 "2009-10-30T20:46:16Z")

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Car makers take a lot of heat, most of it justified. I just wanted to thank one for a change. I bought a new Ford at the end of May which came with the Ford Protection Plan. I was aware of the plan when I bought t…

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## [Private Brand Tires - Who Makes Them?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/private-brand-tires-who-makes-them/38759)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@Caddyman](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Caddyman)\
**Replies:** 5\
**Last updated:** [October 30, 2009, 3:06am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/private-brand-tires-who-makes-them/38759 "2009-10-30T03:06:47Z")

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Here is a list of who makes what for whom. http://www...-tires.cfm

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## [Why most of the used Prius on sale has a salvage title?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/why-most-of-the-used-prius-on-sale-has-a-salvage-title/38707)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@sciconf](https://community.cartalk.com/u/sciconf)\
**Replies:** 13\
**Last updated:** [October 29, 2009, 5:54pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/why-most-of-the-used-prius-on-sale-has-a-salvage-title/38707 "2009-10-29T17:54:24Z")

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Once someone told me that Prius crumbles on impact - now I see most of the used Prius on sale has a salvage title, I am wondering about it,

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## [Chevy Venture Stalling](https://community.cartalk.com/t/chevy-venture-stalling/38747)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@lisadaughters2](https://community.cartalk.com/u/lisadaughters2)\
**Replies:** 3\
**Last updated:** [October 29, 2009, 4:11am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/chevy-venture-stalling/38747 "2009-10-29T04:11:31Z")

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Chevy venture stalls with no indication of stalling. No check engine lights, no codes. Taken to the dealership twice with no success. Still happening. Charged $1200 and still not safe vehicle? Any ideas?

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## [Winter ice radial tires](https://community.cartalk.com/t/winter-ice-radial-tires/38672)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@condos](https://community.cartalk.com/u/condos)\
**Replies:** 5\
**Last updated:** [October 28, 2009, 4:05pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/winter-ice-radial-tires/38672 "2009-10-28T16:05:14Z")

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Has anyone out there used winter ice radials & just left them on for summer driving. I know they will wear faster than all season ,but would they handle ok, also would they stand the heat of hot weather at 60 to 65 MPH & …

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## [Wheel offset](https://community.cartalk.com/t/wheel-offset/38597)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@adamstl1](https://community.cartalk.com/u/adamstl1)\
**Replies:** 3\
**Last updated:** [October 28, 2009, 7:02am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/wheel-offset/38597 "2009-10-28T07:02:00Z")

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I'm wanting to replace my wheels on a 1997 f150 truck. The ones I'm looking at have a -6 offset. Will this adversely affect the handling or drive characteristics of my truck?

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## [Bimmers gas type](https://community.cartalk.com/t/bimmers-gas-type/38693)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@encore131](https://community.cartalk.com/u/encore131)\
**Replies:** 7\
**Last updated:** [October 28, 2009, 2:30am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/bimmers-gas-type/38693 "2009-10-28T02:30:00Z")

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hey i was wondering if any bimmer could use 89 octane gas. I was considering buying a 90-00 3 series or 90 7 series

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## [Remakin a car](https://community.cartalk.com/t/remakin-a-car/38671)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@texasdude](https://community.cartalk.com/u/texasdude)\
**Replies:** 18\
**Last updated:** [October 28, 2009, 2:21am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/remakin-a-car/38671 "2009-10-28T02:21:26Z")

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waht all do i need to do to change my 1991 mazda 323's motor and tranny into a 4.3 twin turbo with a 5 speed?

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## [Electric Car Noise Is Becoming A Problem!](https://community.cartalk.com/t/electric-car-noise-is-becoming-a-problem/38594)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@common-sense-answer](https://community.cartalk.com/u/common-sense-answer)\
**Replies:** 25\
**Last updated:** [October 27, 2009, 10:51pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/electric-car-noise-is-becoming-a-problem/38594 "2009-10-27T22:51:01Z")

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It's not that EVs or Hybrids running on batteries are too noisy, but rather they don't make enough noise. People just stand around these cars when their drivers are trying to get going and often don't realize that t…

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## [Used Cars](https://community.cartalk.com/t/used-cars/38628)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@scytheye](https://community.cartalk.com/u/scytheye)\
**Replies:** 11\
**Last updated:** [October 27, 2009, 4:25am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/used-cars/38628 "2009-10-27T04:25:09Z")

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I'm looking to buy a car for college for about 2.5K but I've never bought a car outright from anyone and never bought a car period, from a private seller. What are some things I should look for and/or avoid to make this …

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## [Will I be able to trade in my 2004 Saturn ION?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/will-i-be-able-to-trade-in-my-2004-saturn-ion/38643)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@Lookin\_Good](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Lookin_Good)\
**Replies:** 6\
**Last updated:** [October 27, 2009, 1:10am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/will-i-be-able-to-trade-in-my-2004-saturn-ion/38643 "2009-10-27T01:10:35Z")

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I currently own a 2004 Saturn ION coupe. I am thoroughly disenchanted with Saturn's service department (not to mention the fact they will no longer be around). I want to buy a Honda Civic 2-door so I don't have to wear…

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