# General Discussion

**URL:** https://community.cartalk.com/c/general-discussion/8.md?page=494

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

**Page:** 495

---

## [Beans and rice](https://community.cartalk.com/t/beans-and-rice/25789)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@circuitsmith](https://community.cartalk.com/u/circuitsmith)\
**Replies:** 0\
**Last updated:** [January 30, 2009, 4:53pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/beans-and-rice/25789 "2009-01-30T16:53:46Z")

</div>

I want this soooo bad: ricecar dot com

---

## [Rice-A-Roney](https://community.cartalk.com/t/rice-a-roney/25787)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@circuitsmith](https://community.cartalk.com/u/circuitsmith)\
**Replies:** 0\
**Last updated:** [January 30, 2009, 4:37pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/rice-a-roney/25787 "2009-01-30T16:37:37Z")

</div>

http://www.ricecar.com/

---

## [Fuel consumption](https://community.cartalk.com/t/fuel-consumption/25649)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@timmytoast](https://community.cartalk.com/u/timmytoast)\
**Replies:** 7\
**Last updated:** [January 30, 2009, 3:00pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/fuel-consumption/25649 "2009-01-30T15:00:00Z")

</div>

Is there a basic formula for figuring how much fuel used while at idle? I realize how many variables are involved, ie. RPM,in gear or not, etc.

---

## [GPS Navigation Units. A Safety Device?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/gps-navigation-units-a-safety-device/25616)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@americar](https://community.cartalk.com/u/americar)\
**Replies:** 11\
**Last updated:** [January 30, 2009, 5:22am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/gps-navigation-units-a-safety-device/25616 "2009-01-30T05:22:39Z")

</div>

I Recently Purchase a GPS, and after using it started thinking if this device actually prevents accidents, and loss of life. Has there been any studies on this?

---

## [How hard was I hit?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/how-hard-was-i-hit/25553)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@angeliaclark](https://community.cartalk.com/u/angeliaclark)\
**Replies:** 13\
**Last updated:** [January 30, 2009, 12:39am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/how-hard-was-i-hit/25553 "2009-01-30T00:39:55Z")

</div>

I was driving 2004 monte carlo. ford ranger rear ended me running approx. 60 mph while I was sitting still. curious as to "impact" speed, velocity..unsure how to ask.

---

## [Volvo 850 totaled - replacement suggestions?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/volvo-850-totaled-replacement-suggestions/25737)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@pebrown](https://community.cartalk.com/u/pebrown)\
**Replies:** 4\
**Last updated:** [January 30, 2009, 12:00am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/volvo-850-totaled-replacement-suggestions/25737 "2009-01-30T00:00:34Z")

</div>

1997 volvo 850 totaled My 1997 volvo 850 was totaled recently. I bought it new , it was a great car and I'm not having fun looking for a replacement. I guess I'd like a reliable, safe car with decent gas mileage. Proba…

---

## [Donating your car to charity](https://community.cartalk.com/t/donating-your-car-to-charity/25743)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@vacavillechick](https://community.cartalk.com/u/vacavillechick)\
**Replies:** 4\
**Last updated:** [January 29, 2009, 5:37pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/donating-your-car-to-charity/25743 "2009-01-29T17:37:59Z")

</div>

any recommendations? I live in manhattan, just lost my job - and have a 2001 Golf that I would like to donate to a reputable charity... in return, I would like to get a tax deduction.

---

## [Why the Big Three are failing: A GM Tale](https://community.cartalk.com/t/why-the-big-three-are-failing-a-gm-tale/22999)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@dmayer](https://community.cartalk.com/u/dmayer)\
**Replies:** 45\
**Last updated:** [January 29, 2009, 4:48pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/why-the-big-three-are-failing-a-gm-tale/22999 "2009-01-29T16:48:31Z")

</div>

We recently received this letter at Car Talk, and thought folks at the Car Talk Community might be interested to read this well-written saga, which provides some perspective on GM's abilities... and lack thereof. A…

---

## [Buying a new car](https://community.cartalk.com/t/buying-a-new-car/23020)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@cheerylife](https://community.cartalk.com/u/cheerylife)\
**Replies:** 24\
**Last updated:** [January 29, 2009, 3:59am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/buying-a-new-car/23020 "2009-01-29T03:59:35Z")

</div>

Dear all, After driving the 96 Honda Civic for the past 8 years, I am finally going to upgrade to a new/newer car. I am in love with hatchbacks lately, spacious but not too big for a young female to drive. I've been…

---

## [Buying a used car](https://community.cartalk.com/t/buying-a-used-car/25729)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@mehran](https://community.cartalk.com/u/mehran)\
**Replies:** 7\
**Last updated:** [January 29, 2009, 3:54am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/buying-a-used-car/25729 "2009-01-29T03:54:13Z")

</div>

I'm trying to buy a used car (through the Internet) for my son who goes to school in Orange County (Laguna Niguel) California. My price range is between $4000 to $5000. Do you recommend any site or place? Do you reco…

---

## [Passing Out Behind the Wheel](https://community.cartalk.com/t/passing-out-behind-the-wheel/25667)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@Whitey](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Whitey)\
**Replies:** 5\
**Last updated:** [January 28, 2009, 10:39pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/passing-out-behind-the-wheel/25667 "2009-01-28T22:39:42Z")

</div>

Regarding Tom and Ray's latest column, I would like to offer a second opinion. "My significant other has collapsed several times in restaurants. My children are concerned about his driving me around. What does one d…

---

## [Best used minivan](https://community.cartalk.com/t/best-used-minivan/25629)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@Inanna](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Inanna)\
**Replies:** 10\
**Last updated:** [January 28, 2009, 2:11am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/best-used-minivan/25629 "2009-01-28T02:11:21Z")

</div>

I need a used minivan or suv. Did dodge ever solve the tranny problem and if so when? If not, what other make/model is reliable?

---

## [Tires Size](https://community.cartalk.com/t/tires-size/25668)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@rellim325](https://community.cartalk.com/u/rellim325)\
**Replies:** 5\
**Last updated:** [January 28, 2009, 12:28am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/tires-size/25668 "2009-01-28T00:28:16Z")

</div>

I currently have 265 75 17's on my 98 Expedition and I have an opportunity to buy 315 75 17's at a good price will they fit?

---

## [Cars for men](https://community.cartalk.com/t/cars-for-men/25313)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@Brian\_Beaulieu](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Brian_Beaulieu)\
**Replies:** 31\
**Last updated:** [January 27, 2009, 10:58pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/cars-for-men/25313 "2009-01-27T22:58:07Z")

</div>

I have been unable to log in and I guess I missed the discussion on which cars men can drive without ridicule, a topic dear to my heart. Can someone please sum it up for me or point me to where I can find dout more? Than…

---

## [How to get out from under a car loan](https://community.cartalk.com/t/how-to-get-out-from-under-a-car-loan/24445)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@cameronjones](https://community.cartalk.com/u/cameronjones)\
**Replies:** 21\
**Last updated:** [January 27, 2009, 12:26am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/how-to-get-out-from-under-a-car-loan/24445 "2009-01-27T00:26:29Z")

</div>

OK, so I have a friend who is in a tough spot. She has a $15,000 balance on a car she could only sell for around $10,000. Her job is not reliable right now, and she only drives the car about once a month. I've run the…

---

## [Growing stock of unsold vehicles](https://community.cartalk.com/t/growing-stock-of-unsold-vehicles/25618)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@bscar](https://community.cartalk.com/u/bscar)\
**Replies:** 2\
**Last updated:** [January 27, 2009, 12:00am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/growing-stock-of-unsold-vehicles/25618 "2009-01-27T00:00:31Z")

</div>

http://www...=341883529 13 pictures of what the market looks like in terms of new car sales

---

## [Car talk](https://community.cartalk.com/t/car-talk/25615)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@RodeoProblem](https://community.cartalk.com/u/RodeoProblem)\
**Replies:** 0\
**Last updated:** [January 26, 2009, 11:30pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/car-talk/25615 "2009-01-26T23:30:26Z")

</div>

I have a 2001 Isuzu Rodeo that has been stalling for about 6 months now. I have taken my car into shops and they were not able to figure anything out. When the car stalls the check transmission light and cruise control l…

---

## [30-second idling](https://community.cartalk.com/t/30-second-idling/25459)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@WilliamCutler](https://community.cartalk.com/u/WilliamCutler)\
**Replies:** 9\
**Last updated:** [January 26, 2009, 10:53pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/30-second-idling/25459 "2009-01-26T22:53:35Z")

</div>

Energy conservation experts advise shutting off the car's engine if it is going to be idling for more than 30 seconds. That would mean shutting off and restarting at almost every stoplight. That doesn't sound like a go…

---

## [All wheel drive vs 4 wheel drive](https://community.cartalk.com/t/all-wheel-drive-vs-4-wheel-drive/25511)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@grady8](https://community.cartalk.com/u/grady8)\
**Replies:** 6\
**Last updated:** [January 26, 2009, 5:06am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/all-wheel-drive-vs-4-wheel-drive/25511 "2009-01-26T05:06:04Z")

</div>

Is all wheel drive as effective as 4 wheel drive in deep snow ( 2 feet or more)?

---

## [New Camry-Poor MPG](https://community.cartalk.com/t/new-camry-poor-mpg/25552)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@TBShirley](https://community.cartalk.com/u/TBShirley)\
**Replies:** 0\
**Last updated:** [January 26, 2009, 12:10am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/new-camry-poor-mpg/25552 "2009-01-26T00:10:45Z")

</div>

We just purchased a new 2009 Camry LE-4cylinder. We have around 1000 miles on it, and are only getting 20 mpg for mixed driving, and 21 for highway driving. Is anyone else having this problem? We traded in the same model…

---

## [What are odds you''ll buy a car you test drive?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/what-are-odds-youll-buy-a-car-you-test-drive/25512)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@anthony1429](https://community.cartalk.com/u/anthony1429)\
**Replies:** 3\
**Last updated:** [January 25, 2009, 10:35pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/what-are-odds-youll-buy-a-car-you-test-drive/25512 "2009-01-25T22:35:21Z")

</div>

Ok guys you got me on the first question.but how about you what are chances you'ii buy when you test drive a new car.(thanks to those that did try to help).

---

## [New car dealer fees](https://community.cartalk.com/t/new-car-dealer-fees/25481)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@silverjym](https://community.cartalk.com/u/silverjym)\
**Replies:** 8\
**Last updated:** [January 25, 2009, 7:32pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/new-car-dealer-fees/25481 "2009-01-25T19:32:25Z")

</div>

I am purchasing a new Holda Fit. The dealer is trying to charge for "pre-delivery inspection", "conveyance" and "document" fees. Are these garbage fees or legitimate fees? Can they be negotiated or declined?

---

## [Cars for short people](https://community.cartalk.com/t/cars-for-short-people/25462)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@clewis](https://community.cartalk.com/u/clewis)\
**Replies:** 5\
**Last updated:** [January 25, 2009, 7:23pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/cars-for-short-people/25462 "2009-01-25T19:23:36Z")

</div>

I've been looking at small hatchbacks with good fuel economy but have been unable to find one that doesn't have a headrest that juts forward. Leaning back into the seat forces my chin into my chest; I end up driving as i…

---

## [What is closure ratio when a car is test driven?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/what-is-closure-ratio-when-a-car-is-test-driven/25485)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@anthony1429](https://community.cartalk.com/u/anthony1429)\
**Replies:** 7\
**Last updated:** [January 25, 2009, 6:02am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/what-is-closure-ratio-when-a-car-is-test-driven/25485 "2009-01-25T06:02:18Z")

</div>

I have got answers from 10%-70% I'm working on a marketing idea for a new car dealership that has moved to a larger location by several other dealerships

---

## [Puddles on floor after car wash](https://community.cartalk.com/t/puddles-on-floor-after-car-wash/25466)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@Franko](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Franko)\
**Replies:** 2\
**Last updated:** [January 24, 2009, 11:40pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/puddles-on-floor-after-car-wash/25466 "2009-01-24T23:40:42Z")

</div>

Our new Hundai develped puddles on the back seat floor after the first carwash in early December. We did not find the water until the next day. We took it to the dealer and waited until they had a loaner. They held the…

---

## [Choosing a used car for daughter in Chicago](https://community.cartalk.com/t/choosing-a-used-car-for-daughter-in-chicago/25175)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@Tom\_McIndoo](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Tom_McIndoo)\
**Replies:** 18\
**Last updated:** [January 24, 2009, 11:15pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/choosing-a-used-car-for-daughter-in-chicago/25175 "2009-01-24T23:15:40Z")

</div>

My 22 yr old single daughter is moving to Chicago. For around $15,000 what make & model car has good traction (snow tires?), turbo heater inside, safe, reliable starter, you know, we want her to have a reliable, safe, w…

---

## [Ford F350 MPG](https://community.cartalk.com/t/ford-f350-mpg/25371)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@RayD2206](https://community.cartalk.com/u/RayD2206)\
**Replies:** 6\
**Last updated:** [January 24, 2009, 5:54am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/ford-f350-mpg/25371 "2009-01-24T05:54:57Z")

</div>

I have a friend who swears that he saw a window sticker in a 2005 F350 at a Ford dealer in Cancun Mexico with a gas mileage or 38 city and 48 highway. Was he pulling my leg or do export Fords get better gas mileage tha…

---

## [Mpg](https://community.cartalk.com/t/mpg/25346)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@ShaonB](https://community.cartalk.com/u/ShaonB)\
**Replies:** 15\
**Last updated:** [January 23, 2009, 8:33pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/mpg/25346 "2009-01-23T20:33:04Z")

</div>

Just got a 2006 4WD Honda CRV. 16,000 miles on it. I'm only getting 16 mpg. It's been very cold here, is that why my mpg are so low?

---

## [Just how useless have we become?](https://community.cartalk.com/t/just-how-useless-have-we-become/25214)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@Bullfinch](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Bullfinch)\
**Replies:** 28\
**Last updated:** [January 23, 2009, 2:18pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/just-how-useless-have-we-become/25214 "2009-01-23T14:18:00Z")

</div>

I was sitting in a birthday party recently and heard one of the fellow parents mention their washing machine wasn't working and it was time to get a new one. From their description, I volunteered that I had recently had…

---

## [Airbag did not deploy](https://community.cartalk.com/t/airbag-did-not-deploy/25255)

<div class="topic-metadata">

**Author:** [@McCloud1933](https://community.cartalk.com/u/McCloud1933)\
**Replies:** 12\
**Last updated:** [January 23, 2009, 12:51am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/airbag-did-not-deploy/25255 "2009-01-23T00:51:49Z")

</div>

I was in a auto accident and traveling 50 KPH when another car attempting to make a right turn n front of me hit my left front, the damage was a write off. My airbag did not deploy. Who should I report this to?

[Previous page](https://community.cartalk.com/c/general-discussion/8.md?page=493)

[Next page](https://community.cartalk.com/c/general-discussion/8.md?page=495)
