Last Scion is inexpensive, sporty
The Scion brand is going away, but there's still time to get a 2016 iA, an inexpensive sedan with impressive handling, top fuel mileage and surprising standard features.This iA is new for 2016 and rides on a front-wheel drive platform and suspension that is noteworthy for its sporty handling. The starting manufacturer-suggested retail price, including destination charge, is $16,495 for a five-seater with six-speed manual transmission, while the six-speed automatic is $17,595. The four-door model is a recommended buy of Consumer Reports magazine.But it's not a stripped-down vehicle: ...
Teen learns to drive ‘64 Fairlane
Melinda Glenn is well familiar with every aspect of her 1964 Ford Fairlane 500. She is one of seven children who grew up in LaCrosse, Wis.As her older siblings reached driving age they acquired, with their father's assistance, second-hand Ford Mustangs that were in need of resuscitation. Her father was of the opinion that if the young drivers invested time working on the cars they would treat them gently and safely.As Glenn approached driving age she naturally assumed her father would find her a used Mustang. She didn't know that in his youth her father owned a 1964 Ford Fairlane 500, so ...
Key dirt causes ignition wear
Dear Doctor: I have a 2007 Lexus ES 350 with 80,000 miles. For the past seven years, the ignition key system locked so that when the key was put into the ignition cylinder, the key was difficult to turn. I was told to jiggle it with considerable force to free it. I finally gave up with having to go through this routine and replaced the ignition cylinder at a cost of $750. Why did this happen? OwenDear Owen: Ignition cylinders and keys wear out, particularly so when there are several keys hanging from a key ring. Dirty keys (with any kind of grit) cause premature wear to the wafers in the ...