Recent content by peterthegreat

The Nissan, without question. It's also much more reliable.

If you don't live in CA, don't work in CA, don't register the car in CA, you don't pay CA sales tax. You pay sales tax in the state where you live, where you work, where you drive, and where you register the car.

No, they are only reflectors.

You are really upside down. You do know that if you "let it go back" to the bank, that you still owe them the money you borrowed after they sell the car at a junk auction? Right? The only difference between then and now is that you are now making monthly payments but if you let the car go back...

Sure. It happens all the time. I've haggled and negotiated for members of my family for years. It's a smart thing to do. Do it and you'll learn how to do it for yourself for next time.

Why do you think your insurance will total the car if it is drivable and has a dent in the front? Most likely, your insurance company will simply pay to have the car repaired, which if probably best for you, especially if you still owe more on your loan than the car is worth.

Your car needs a good tune-up -- and an oil change, which is why your maintenance light is on.

Mitsu Lancer EVO or Subaru WRX. Or Ford Mustang, or Chevy Camaro (2010), or Dodge Charger. Or supercharged Mazda MX-5 Miata. Or a Porsche Cayman or 911. Or a Hyundai Genesis V8.

Some Accords in those model years had transmission problems, but otherwise they are extremely reliable cars. If you decide to buy one, I suggest having a qualified mechanic look the car over, especially the transmission and the timing belt.

Consumer Reports magazine says the reliability of the Tribute is very good, although not excellent (like a Honda or Toyota). Previous models have experienced some minor reliability problems, but nothing of great consequence. If you want more details, I suggest you read the April 2009 issue of...

Toyota 4Runner is a proven good choice -- top quality, performance, and comfort. The Pathfinder is a little less reliable but otherwise a good vehicle -- if you like the cheap silver plastic that Nissan uses in most of its vehicle interiors.

GM is going to announce Monday that it's dumping the Pontiac brand. Will people be disappointed? How is that going to affect current Pontiac owners? Will it affect the price of their cars? Will parts still be available? Or does it really matter?

A bankruptcy stays on your credit report for seven years. If you are past those seven years, then you should have no problems, assuming your income and debts are no problem. Actually, many lenders now want to see at least a 700 score, but if you shop around you should be able to find one that...

Honda is the more reliable brand. If you keep the car for a few years, you may end up paying more for the Pontiac, even though the initial purchase price is lower.

I would advise that, for car that old and that many miles, you should take it to a mechanic. It's not wise to take the word of a seller about an old car's condition, even if it seems to drive okay. Remember, you can't take it back after the sale.