Erm, don't. Seriously. I have a strong recollection she doesn't like others manipulating her image. I could be wrong, but better safe than sorry.

It was a tongue-in-cheek suggestion.

Hivemind - K-Bug is looking for a car and found the following ad on Craigslist -

2001 Taurus SES, 71k miles, $3,500
New Front & Rear Brake, New Brake cylinder.Have All Maintenance records.
Engine: V6 3.0 Liter
Transmission: Automatic
Color: Black
Power Windows, Power Door Locks, Power Seats, ABS, AM/FM Stereo,Single CD Player, Cruise Control, FWD, Dual Front Air Bags, Power Steering, Tilt Wheel, A/C.

I have never bought a used car not from a dealer - what do we ask about? Does this look good?

what do we ask about?

The one key question: "do you mind if I take this to my own mechanic to have it checked out?" -- if they object, run. Otherwise, the mechanic can find more than you'd be able to spot yourself.

(note: answer does not apply to people who actually know stuff about cars.)

I wish I had a mechanic to take it to. Unfortunately, I don't know a mechanic, and this car is about a hour away from where we live.

My to do list is making me weep.

Suzi, I can tell you that Consumer Reports doesn't hate the Taurus sedan for that model year -- they rate it middling as a used car.

I haven't got a clue what you would ask, though.

Pop Tarts:

The DMV has a how to buy a used car page: [link]

It has lists like the following:

* Is the car easy to start?

* Does it turn over on the first try?

* Are the gears (manual transmission) easy to shift?

* Is the clutch easy to engage with no abnormal sounds or hesitation?

* In an automatic transmission, does the car move smoothly from gear to gear?

* Is there any unusual noise or hesitation while changing gears?

* Are the brakes strong?

* Is there a pull to either side as you step on the brakes?

* On the freeway, does the car have good acceleration?

* Can it easily reach speeds in order to merge with the flow of traffic?

* Do the turn signals work?

* Is the car easy to maneuver during lane changes?

* Are their any blind spots?

* Does the cruise control work?

* Around town, does the car handle well and idle steadily during stops?

* Is the acceleration strong starting off on a green light?

* Is the car easy to park in a number of types of parking spots?

* Do the air conditioning and heating systems function properly?

I'd also check the oil level (when the car is cold) - if it's low, then maybe the owner wasn't taking good care of the car. If it's dirty, ditto. If there's white stuff in the oil, run away....

Sparky, howze our Sassy today?

I'm about to run off to a client session, but I've been thinking about you guys all day.

You gotta come to next month's Yappy Hour...the 17th at 4pm. We're walking, we're walking t /Dave . Can't wait to use that joke.

Sassy is good. I didn't hear from the doctor today, but I'll call tomorrow if there's no message at home.

I think we'll be in town for that Yappy Hour!