The Wall Street Journal-20080116-Me -amp- My Car
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Me & My Car
[Columnist Jonathan Welsh answers readers' questions about automobiles]
Q: My BMW service department says there is no need to rotate the tires on my 2004 325i due to the suspension system. Is this correct?
-- Terry Thystrup, Palm Desert, Calif.
A: I think you should rotate your tires despite your service department's advice. Some suspension designs can be easier on tires than others, but rotating the tires can still promote more even wear and help you save money by getting more miles out of them.
Q: We are interested in purchasing a new car and are looking at the six-cylinder Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Lincoln MKZ. Which do you suggest?
-- Joel Stein, Fort Collins, Colo.
A: It is worth your time to test drive all three. After driving each one on lengthy trips, I think the Accord has the best combination of space, performance and fuel economy. I'm a longtime skeptic regarding variable-cylinder-management systems, because they don't seem to help fuel economy in real-world driving. But the Honda's system doesn't seem to affect engine smoothness. The Lincoln is also a pleasant drive, though I think the Honda's interior is a bit nicer. I find the Toyota's driving position too low.
Q: We're looking to replace our minivan with a new crossover that can seat seven, and want to spend under $40,000. Our list includes the Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia, Acura MDX and Mazda CX-9. Which would you recommend?
-- Matt Slepian, Salem, N.H.
A: Well-equipped versions of any of the models you mention can be purchased for less than $40,000. The Acadia is probably the best choice. It has an airy, spacious interior and can be ordered with second-row captain's chairs that have an aisle between them, allowing the sort of easy access to the third-row seats you get in minivans. While the Buick and GMC are based on the same design, the GMC's interior makes it a better choice if you plan to use the third-row seat often.
Q: We are retiring one of our three cars, meaning I must convert my 1997 BMW 840i to a daily driver or purchase another car. It has 60,000 well-maintained miles; daily driving would add 850 more per month. Thoughts?
-- Craig Owen, Houston
A: Using the 840i as a daily driver may be the best thing you can do to boost its longevity. At 850 miles per month you would be driving it just over 10,000 miles annually, enough to keep its engine, fuel system, brakes, and other moving parts in good condition. By driving the car regularly, you'll avoid problems that befall little-used cars.
