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["K. Jo Garner" <kelly AT metalab.unc.edu>]

On Mon, 12 Jun 2006, Roger Austin wrote:

->it just sucks. Toyota Tundra is probably in my future.

My SO has a 99 Tacoma which he has faithfully maintained and it has given 
him no problems. He's up to 89K miles now. 

I have a 96 Dodge Neon that the previous owner put some aftermarket things 
on (muffler, air filter) and took good care of. I got it at 100K, it's now 
almost at 200K. Only 1 problem with the dashboard computer (the connection 
is now getting tetchy - so the gauges will sometimes flatline) but all 
else is great. 

I paid $3000 for my car in 2001 at Al Smith's Used Car center, the "deals" 
place next to the building formerly known as the Ritz. I got $300 knocked 
off on the spot because I asked for it.  But, I don't think that 
particular division is in business any longer. However, I would imagine 
that any car dealership which is giving good deals on new cars would have 
a fair number of trade-ins that would be in good condition. Don't be shy 
about taking it to your mechanic for an evaluation.

I also want to give a shout out to the Subaru GL wagon I had (1987; 250K 
miles) - hauls like a truck, handles like a wee car, lasts forever. Mine 
did finally give up the ghost after 3 years of ownership. 

Whatever you do, get a Haynes or Chilton's manual about the particular 
vehicle you own so you can be knowledgeable about the way it works and is 
put together - you may be able to make minor repairs on your own. 
Otherwise, you are at the mercy of the mechanics. 

Also - a one month CARFAX VIN check subscription will run you $24.99 but 
is well worth it for the ability to get vehicle history on your potential 
ride.

Good luck with the car shopping - take your time, take pictures, do the 
research and bring a friend!

Cheers
KJ

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