# General Discussion **URL:** https://community.cartalk.com/c/general-discussion/8.md?page=468 [Latest](https://community.cartalk.com/latest.md) · [Categories](https://community.cartalk.com/categories.md) · [Tags](https://community.cartalk.com/tags.md) **Page:** 469 --- ## [Hyundai Sonata & Audi A4](https://community.cartalk.com/t/hyundai-sonata-audi-a4/36761)
**Author:** [@gsrcjr](https://community.cartalk.com/u/gsrcjr)\ **Replies:** 5\ **Last updated:** [September 18, 2009, 1:52am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/hyundai-sonata-audi-a4/36761 "2009-09-18T01:52:19Z")
Does anyone think that the Hyundai Sonata looks very similar to the Audi A4? I know there is a big difference in the engine, performance etc, but in terms of just looks alone, it seems very similar. Any thoughts in … --- ## [What does this Rim/Wheel fit?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/what-does-this-rim-wheel-fit/36605)
**Author:** [@Glenn\_D](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Glenn_D)\ **Replies:** 9\ **Last updated:** [September 17, 2009, 8:10pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/what-does-this-rim-wheel-fit/36605 "2009-09-17T20:10:17Z")
If I have 14X6JJ five lug rim. How do I learn what vehicles it will fit? I think there's a matter of measuring the distance between the holes - but can someone tell me which ones I measure? And what's the next step fo… --- ## [4 Cylinder ranger](https://community.cartalk.com/t/4-cylinder-ranger/36258)
**Author:** [@budman71655](https://community.cartalk.com/u/budman71655)\ **Replies:** 11\ **Last updated:** [September 15, 2009, 3:08am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/4-cylinder-ranger/36258 "2009-09-15T03:08:41Z")
My friend's ranger has four cylinders and eight (8) spark plugs. I've never seen this before. What's the purpose of the "extra" plugs. And, wouldn't this thing be a problem to set the timing?? --- ## [Possible big fuel and emissions saver?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/possible-big-fuel-and-emissions-saver/36083)
**Author:** [@robobass](https://community.cartalk.com/u/robobass)\ **Replies:** 13\ **Last updated:** [September 15, 2009, 2:48am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/possible-big-fuel-and-emissions-saver/36083 "2009-09-15T02:48:12Z")
Do you turn your engine off when waiting for a train to pass? What about a red light that you just missed and know from experience will take several minutes to go green again? Would you do it more often if you always kne… --- ## [Researching old registration - 1914](https://community.cartalk.com/t/researching-old-registration-1914/36639)
**Author:** [@bizshrink](https://community.cartalk.com/u/bizshrink)\ **Replies:** 2\ **Last updated:** [September 14, 2009, 9:56pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/researching-old-registration-1914/36639 "2009-09-14T21:56:59Z")
Dear Car Talk Folks - While walking the beach recently in Mattapoissett MA I found an old license plate from 1914. The numbers are clear and I'd like to know how to research the plate number and find out more about the … --- ## [School for auto mechanic](https://community.cartalk.com/t/school-for-auto-mechanic/36512)
**Author:** [@Jperci](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Jperci)\ **Replies:** 11\ **Last updated:** [September 14, 2009, 7:25pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/school-for-auto-mechanic/36512 "2009-09-14T19:25:48Z")
Hi, My son is 19 years old and is interested in a career as a mechanic. Can anyone recommend a school or program in Massachusetts? Thanks for your help! --- ## [Ranger](https://community.cartalk.com/t/ranger/36596)
**Author:** [@auldmon](https://community.cartalk.com/u/auldmon)\ **Replies:** 3\ **Last updated:** [September 14, 2009, 4:10pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/ranger/36596 "2009-09-14T16:10:03Z")
A '98 Ford Ranger with a 300cu. in. engine, five speed manual trans.The truck drives fine up to about 70 mph in 5th gear. Then it feel like it grabs and bucks, just momentarily, at higher speeds it appears to be ok. In… --- ## [2008 Expedition What Octane at 5,280 feet elevation?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/2008-expedition-what-octane-at-5-280-feet-elevation/36571)
**Author:** [@Robert-Gift](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Robert-Gift)\ **Replies:** 11\ **Last updated:** [September 14, 2009, 12:06pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/2008-expedition-what-octane-at-5-280-feet-elevation/36571 "2009-09-14T12:06:18Z")
5.4L. V-8 Ford says 87 octane 85 is often 10 cents less. I'm told that 85 is fine at this altitude? Correct? Thank you. --- ## [Alarm system screwy](https://community.cartalk.com/t/alarm-system-screwy/36610)
**Author:** [@artist295](https://community.cartalk.com/u/artist295)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [September 14, 2009, 11:03am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/alarm-system-screwy/36610 "2009-09-14T11:03:31Z")
'04 Chrysler Concorde: At night only, lights (front and rear) flash on and off for 3-4 times (with red alarm dash light), it will turn off for about 10-15 minutes, then go through the same cycle for 4 hours. Never during… --- ## [American Cars. Well, yuk](https://community.cartalk.com/t/american-cars-well-yuk/22133)
**Author:** [@sopwithcamel](https://community.cartalk.com/u/sopwithcamel)\ **Replies:** 106\ **Last updated:** [September 14, 2009, 1:51am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/american-cars-well-yuk/22133 "2009-09-14T01:51:15Z")
Of course it's unfair, and feels mighty unpatriotic to admit this, but in 25 years of buying cars, it has never really occurred to me to buy American. I know plenty of people who regard American cars as junk, but I don'… --- ## [Used Civic - how much of a risk?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/used-civic-how-much-of-a-risk/36546)
**Author:** [@phlatcat](https://community.cartalk.com/u/phlatcat)\ **Replies:** 14\ **Last updated:** [September 14, 2009, 1:51am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/used-civic-how-much-of-a-risk/36546 "2009-09-14T01:51:05Z")
Hi, First I appreciate all the knowledge that is shared here and have learned a lot. I made a big mistake and sold my 1996 Accord wagon and have regretted it every day. I've been shopping for a Civic to run around town, … --- ## [Advice Needed](https://community.cartalk.com/t/advice-needed/36593)
**Author:** [@jeffreywynn](https://community.cartalk.com/u/jeffreywynn)\ **Replies:** 6\ **Last updated:** [September 14, 2009, 12:22am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/advice-needed/36593 "2009-09-14T00:22:14Z")
I was hoping to pose a question to those with more knowledge than I on potentially selling my 1989 Porsche 911 Carrera Silver Anniversary Edition Cabriolet. Although the Blue Book value based on the mileage is one thing… --- ## [Blood transport 2008 Expedition Deep snow, then bare surface](https://community.cartalk.com/t/blood-transport-2008-expedition-deep-snow-then-bare-surface/36572)
**Author:** [@Robert-Gift](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Robert-Gift)\ **Replies:** 8\ **Last updated:** [September 13, 2009, 7:28pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/blood-transport-2008-expedition-deep-snow-then-bare-surface/36572 "2009-09-13T19:28:23Z")
4x4 1 a.m., blizzard conditions, hospital calls for bloodelivered as quickly as possible for trauma patient bleeding out in surgery. (MVA not wearing seat-belts.) We encounter deep snow for which chains would be … --- ## [Mazda vs subaru](https://community.cartalk.com/t/mazda-vs-subaru/36545)
**Author:** [@anxious\_car\_buyer](https://community.cartalk.com/u/anxious_car_buyer)\ **Replies:** 3\ **Last updated:** [September 13, 2009, 4:52pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/mazda-vs-subaru/36545 "2009-09-13T16:52:37Z")
I'm having a hard time deciding between purchasing a mazda 3 hatchback, or subaru outback, both are 2008 low miles --- ## [Tire Blowouts](https://community.cartalk.com/t/tire-blowouts/36496)
**Author:** [@tammy7250](https://community.cartalk.com/u/tammy7250)\ **Replies:** 8\ **Last updated:** [September 12, 2009, 7:17pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/tire-blowouts/36496 "2009-09-12T19:17:54Z")
Has anyone heard of a tire blowing out sitting in the driveway? We just purchased 4 new Goodyear Viva2 tires from Walmart. There was 20 miles put on it driving home. Approx. 2 weeks later the tire blew on the inside t… --- ## [Question about trips to the Sales Manager](https://community.cartalk.com/t/question-about-trips-to-the-sales-manager/36483)
**Author:** [@Grateful](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Grateful)\ **Replies:** 18\ **Last updated:** [September 12, 2009, 4:26pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/question-about-trips-to-the-sales-manager/36483 "2009-09-12T16:26:52Z")
What did they tell you about going to the Sales Manager- I feel that I trust my sales person until he comes back equipped with some feedback from the sales manager. He will start asking me directing if I thought his writ… --- ## [Good Beginner Project Car](https://community.cartalk.com/t/good-beginner-project-car/36429)
**Author:** [@Casey337](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Casey337)\ **Replies:** 17\ **Last updated:** [September 12, 2009, 5:05am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/good-beginner-project-car/36429 "2009-09-12T05:05:16Z")
I'm looking to get into car repair does anybody have any suggestions what would be a good first project car to buy? I want something a little older since new cars have a lot of computerized aspects. I saw an ad for a 1… --- ## [Car Purchase Areas of Negotiation](https://community.cartalk.com/t/car-purchase-areas-of-negotiation/36446)
**Author:** [@Grateful](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Grateful)\ **Replies:** 8\ **Last updated:** [September 12, 2009, 1:51am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/car-purchase-areas-of-negotiation/36446 "2009-09-12T01:51:12Z")
If a car salesman (who I actually like) says that cruise control has to come with a power package in all their cars (power windows, etc) so that this is a separate price on the invoice. I am also told that mats came with… --- ## [Negotiating a used car](https://community.cartalk.com/t/negotiating-a-used-car/36452)
**Author:** [@choifoto](https://community.cartalk.com/u/choifoto)\ **Replies:** 6\ **Last updated:** [September 11, 2009, 11:51pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/negotiating-a-used-car/36452 "2009-09-11T23:51:22Z")
I'm thinking about paying cash for a used car, but I'm not sure I should divulge this to the dealer. Are dealers more likely to give you a better price on a used car if they know you are financing with them, or does it n… --- ## [Missing catalytic converter on a certified pre-owned vehicle](https://community.cartalk.com/t/missing-catalytic-converter-on-a-certified-pre-owned-vehicle/35746)
**Author:** [@C30sad](https://community.cartalk.com/u/C30sad)\ **Replies:** 49\ **Last updated:** [September 11, 2009, 4:45pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/missing-catalytic-converter-on-a-certified-pre-owned-vehicle/35746 "2009-09-11T16:45:17Z")
Two weeks ago, I bought a Certified, Pre-Owned 2008 Volvo C30 with 28,000 miles on it from a reputable Volvo dealer. 130 point checklist, etc. Within 20 miles of leaving the selling dealership the Check Engine light cam… --- ## [Automotive Olympics](https://community.cartalk.com/t/automotive-olympics/36459)
**Author:** [@Bluemeaney](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Bluemeaney)\ **Replies:** 2\ **Last updated:** [September 11, 2009, 3:21pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/automotive-olympics/36459 "2009-09-11T15:21:39Z")
I'm the president of a local Classic Chevy club here in San Jose CA & a member of a Camaro club as well. We're having a picnic tomorrow. I listened to your radio show for years and you had a picnic or a gathering where y… --- ## [Toyota programmable keys](https://community.cartalk.com/t/toyota-programmable-keys/36457)
**Author:** [@vintagecar](https://community.cartalk.com/u/vintagecar)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [September 11, 2009, 2:43pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/toyota-programmable-keys/36457 "2009-09-11T14:43:01Z")
what year did toyota start programmable keys? --- ## [Intrepid gas siphoning](https://community.cartalk.com/t/intrepid-gas-siphoning/36439)
**Author:** [@pgchapman3](https://community.cartalk.com/u/pgchapman3)\ **Replies:** 5\ **Last updated:** [September 11, 2009, 12:20pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/intrepid-gas-siphoning/36439 "2009-09-11T12:20:46Z")
I have an Intrepid that no longer runs, engine shot. There is a full tank of gas that I would like to remove. I have tried a couple of different products to try to get the liquid out with no success. Is there a stop or b… --- ## [Cash for clunkers](https://community.cartalk.com/t/cash-for-clunkers/34215)
**Author:** [@loriex](https://community.cartalk.com/u/loriex)\ **Replies:** 21\ **Last updated:** [September 11, 2009, 11:43am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/cash-for-clunkers/34215 "2009-09-11T11:43:30Z")
I have a 98 Jeep Cherokee which I believe qualifies for the cash for clunkers program. It has 126,000 miles on it and my mechanics say I should be able to get another 100,000 out of it but I wonder at what cost. I've p… --- ## [Car Parts Interchangability information website](https://community.cartalk.com/t/car-parts-interchangability-information-website/36428)
**Author:** [@b11b11](https://community.cartalk.com/u/b11b11)\ **Replies:** 2\ **Last updated:** [September 11, 2009, 4:49am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/car-parts-interchangability-information-website/36428 "2009-09-11T04:49:24Z")
At what websites did I see car parts interchangeability information? For example, a 2005 car part is the same part that is in the 1995 car. --- ## [Does the car's computer "learn" how you drive?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/does-the-cars-computer-learn-how-you-drive/36422)
**Author:** [@quesera](https://community.cartalk.com/u/quesera)\ **Replies:** 6\ **Last updated:** [September 11, 2009, 3:43am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/does-the-cars-computer-learn-how-you-drive/36422 "2009-09-11T03:43:26Z")
I bought a 2009 Hyundai this year, and at my first service check, I mentioned that the car wasn't getting the kind of mileage I was expecting. He said it took 5,000 miles for the engine to break in (sounds fair), but al… --- ## [Better call Orkin!](https://community.cartalk.com/t/better-call-orkin/36337)
**Author:** [@kmccune](https://community.cartalk.com/u/kmccune)\ **Replies:** 22\ **Last updated:** [September 11, 2009, 12:07am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/better-call-orkin/36337 "2009-09-11T00:07:09Z")
What is the best material to make a car from(all materials will given due consideration)-Kevin --- ## [5-20 Motorcraft synthetic blend. 100% synthetic better?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/5-20-motorcraft-synthetic-blend-100-synthetic-better/36395)
**Author:** [@Robert-Gift](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Robert-Gift)\ **Replies:** 10\ **Last updated:** [September 10, 2009, 11:03pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/5-20-motorcraft-synthetic-blend-100-synthetic-better/36395 "2009-09-10T23:03:55Z")
2008 Expedition 48k Would we save fuel by using 100% synthetic, such as Wal-Mart's 5-quart jugs? Would the cost difference be worth the fuel savings? Less engine wear? Driven gently but sometimes the vehicle is … --- ## [Oil](https://community.cartalk.com/t/oil/36401)
**Author:** [@cupcake1](https://community.cartalk.com/u/cupcake1)\ **Replies:** 6\ **Last updated:** [September 10, 2009, 6:15pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/oil/36401 "2009-09-10T18:15:39Z")
should you check oil levels when engine is hot or cold? --- ## [Vintage VW cross-country trips](https://community.cartalk.com/t/vintage-vw-cross-country-trips/36355)
**Author:** [@austinw](https://community.cartalk.com/u/austinw)\ **Replies:** 8\ **Last updated:** [September 10, 2009, 2:12am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/vintage-vw-cross-country-trips/36355 "2009-09-10T02:12:30Z")
I saw the "Links we Like" section on this homepage and clicked on "California or Bust". Totally cool! A girl is driving from Penn to Calif in her 1966 vw bug. I signed up for her blog. I always wanted to do that, w… [Previous page](https://community.cartalk.com/c/general-discussion/8.md?page=467) [Next page](https://community.cartalk.com/c/general-discussion/8.md?page=469)