Vehicle help please

[chickwhorips]

hello all. considering i am moving to the "big city" i need to purchase a car. :eek: :eek: :eek:

my thought is a Toyota 4Runner. i know if a toyota can last in cold bay, it can last in anchorage or anywhere for that matter. i also hear that the insuance is good on them.
though by off hand chance i can't find one (or one in my price range, nothing over $15K) what else is there? i thought of a nissan xterra, but don't know much about them or how reliable they are.

i need something that i can put my bike in plus a dog, or 3 big dogs in general. i don't want a truck, an suv is more my type.

any ideas or feeling on the subject?

thanks! :)

[7rider]

If you are looking at an Xterra or 4Runner for less than $15K, I imagine you are thinking "used." Yes?
I have a Ford Escape. It has been very reliable (dad always said the only thing Ford knows how to make are trucks.). However, I have the V-6. I've heard bad things about the 4-cylinder, so I'd say "Ford Escape with the V-6" would be a good option, although I don't know just how BIG your dogs are. It may be a bit small for your needs.
We regularly through 2 bikes on the back (we also carry them inside sometimes, but have to remove the front wheel to do so), 2 kayaks on the roof, a bale of hay in the back, and other assorted junk.

[xeney]

We have three big dogs and a 2002 Toyota RAV4, which is too small for three dogs plus bikes unless the bikes go on a rack outside. We are also kind of in the market for a new car because we will soon be adding a baby to that mix. There are not many occasions when we'll need to have dogs plus baby plus bikes ... but we do camp a lot so we need to be able to haul kid plus dogs, and right now the only way to take all three dogs is to remove the rear seats. We may experiment with removing only one rear seat, but I don't think that is enough space.

We are going to look at the new RAV4, which is quite a bit bigger, and also the Highlander. We really love our RAV4 and don't want to replace it so we are trying to get something similar, if we do have to upsize. So I am going to be watching this thread for suggestions, too. Gas mileage is fairly important to us, although we don't commute by car and drive fewer than 5,000 miles a year so space, reliability, and 4WD are more important in the big scheme.

[chickwhorips]

yes i am thinking used. can't afford to buy new.

the dogs are two german shepards (100+ lbs each) and my peanut who is about a 100 lbs. i would like to fit the bike inside without having to really take it apart. it just seems safer to me to have it inside. if i have the bike, i would probably only have peanut and not the other two.

[Kitsune06]

I suggest an Isuzu Rodeo Sport, next-gen of the Isuzu Amigo. Very nice, can be converted to topless if you want, will transport large dogs and bikes (though I reccommend a rack on the back for the bikes)

good luck.

[xeney]

I would worry about a bike falling over with a dog in the car, especially if you haven't taken a wheel off. Unless your dog rides on the seat?

[Mr. Bloom]

Consumer Reports (a trustworthy source to me) lists used 4Runner,Rav4, Pathfinder, Pilot, Forester, and Outback as a "Best Buy". I think they're all 4 wheel drive and/or SUV's.

Honda Element is on the list as well...if I wasn't old and frumpy, I'd get that!

[snapdragen]

As a devout Subaru fan, I say Forester. :D :cool:

[KnottedYet]

Back before you were born we called Subaru the "State Car of Alaska."

Have you considered a Subaru Legacy wagon? I've hauled 2 big dogs (110 lb Rottie and 75 lb mutt) in my Legacy without putting the back seat down, and also hauled 2 bikes inside it with the seat down. No dogs WITH the bikes in side the car, though.

Now I have an Impreza (my 3rd Subi), which easily hauls one bike inside or two dogs (75 lb mutt and 85 lb Griffon) with the back seat down. I haven't had the opportunity to try hauling 2 bikes yet. Imprezas are cheaper, but smaller. Same engine and such as the Legacy. The Forester is the same platform as the Impreza but taller and roomier inside.

All have AWD and generally more clearance (especially in the Outback versions of the wagons and the Forester) than the average pick-up truck. (gotta watch the pumpkin on a pickup!)

Edit: I get between 32-36 mpg in my Imp.

[Tuckervill]

I vote for an 03 or 04 Honda Element, which you can get for under $15, and with all-wheel drive.

Karen

[Tuckervill]

My bikes wouldn't fit standing up in a Forester, but they roll right in the Element. Plenty of room for dogs and bikes, even if you don't remove the back seat, because they fold up along the windows.

And Mr. Silver, I am old and frumpy, and I love my Element. My 72 yo pop has one, too. :)
Karen

[KnottedYet]

I looked at an Element and really liked it, but the increase in price (new) to get AWD was utterly insane (like $4k more than an Impreza) and the AWD at that time only came as an automatic. Grrr!

The Element is a very cool car for hauling stuff. Just be aware that the overlapping doors substitute for the "B" pillar in a crash. You don't have kids to worry about, so I don't imagine that'd be an issue.

I sure did like the Elements, though... but I have SKnot to consider!

[chickwhorips]

i just looked at the elements and i'm in lllllloooooovvvvvveeeeee!! :eek: the great thing is you don't have to take the bike apart. finding one, in my price range, in anchorae, may be a different story. :(

no kids, only peanut. she's more than enough to handle. couldn't imagine a human child thrown into the mix.

i looked into a subaru but they aren't high enough off the ground for my liking. they tend not to plow roads in anchorage and well crazy drivers, and i'd just feel safer.

[KnottedYet]

i looked into a subaru but they aren't high enough off the ground for my liking. they tend not to plow roads in anchorage and well crazy drivers, and i'd just feel safer.

Watch out for those optical illusions! The Element has 6.9 inches of clearance, the Subaru Legacy has 7.3 inches of clearance, and the Subaru Outback has 8.7 inches.

The Element is certainly taller head-room wise (and what's an inch or two of ground clearance among friends, anyway:D ) and would certainly be better for hauling both bikes and dogs at the same time!

They are awfully cool cars. If you can't find a used one, at least go to a Honda dealer in Anchored-down and take a new one for a test-ride! You could always make a trip to the lower 48 (say... hmm... maybe *Seattle*?) to find a used one.

Edit: Just for Snap I went back and searched the Forester's ground clearance. The LLBean limited has 8.1 inches, the standard has 7.9 inches.

[silver]

Ok, I know that you said SUV, and I don't know if there is a mini van that meets your road clearance and AWD needs, but I'll have to say that as much as I HATE the look of my minivan, it truly meets my bike and toting capacity needs. I regularly drive around with all gear necessary for running biking and swimming. It's the perfect triathlon vehicle. I'll bet with the seats out I could tote 4 bikes inside the van without removing wheels. I don't have dogs so I can't tell you about dog space. And You wouldn't have to pay a premium for an SUV.

[KnottedYet]

Remember the Mistubishi MPV minivan with 4 wheel drive!? That was an awesome minivan. I think Mitsu has come out with a new version, but it's more the luxury-type than the good ol' MPV was.

What about the Honda Vanagon or the Toyota M5? Those were good little 4wd minivans, too.

(I hope my Subi isn't reading over my shoulder... really Imp, I love you best!)

[chickwhorips]

for the record: i have nothing against mini's as a vehicle. great vehicle.

though as a teen i was TORMENTED by the fact that i had to drive one around. there were not one but TWO of them in my house. no way in he!! will i ever own one. i rather drive the worse vehicle out there then purchase a mini.

no offense to those that do drive a mini. like i said, they are great, but not for me. specially me, with no family, only a dog. in the opposite words of mr silver, i'm a young chick, i need something cool. :cool:

ironically when i was 20 and bought my alero, my dad said i should get a mini. i looked at him like :eek: :confused: are you crazy? i'm 20! and for the record, that was 6 years ago, i haven't changed my mind.

[KnottedYet]

I think Trek has an Alero. (I cleaned the thing, you'd think I'd remember what it is... brain like a steel sieve, I tell ya!) Now she's looking at Hondas and VW biodiesels.

[Trek420]

Yep. Olds Alero with a roof rack. Don't tell it I'm looking at other cars. :cool:

[Mr. Bloom]

And Mr. Silver, I am old and frumpy, and I love my Element. My 72 yo pop has one, too. :)
Karen

I love it! The women I bought my red mercedes from is 70 and drives a mini-cooper now!


ironically when i was 20 and bought my alero, my dad said i should get a mini. i looked at him like :eek: :confused: are you crazy? i'm 20! and for the record, that was 6 years ago, i haven't changed my mind.

Good Call in your 20's! Silver's been a real sport to tolerate keeping her minivan.

[chickwhorips]

The Element has 6.9 inches of clearance, the Subaru Legacy has 7.3 inches of clearance, and the Subaru Outback has 8.7 inches.

this is the only thing that has now halted my consideration of an element. :(

[7rider]

no offense to those that do drive a mini. like i said, they are great, but not for me. specially me, with no family, only a dog. in the opposite words of mr silver, i'm a young chick, i need something cool. :cool:



Wait!!! Are you talking Mini's - like Mini Coopers? Or mini - as in miniVAN?
:confused:

I think I read somewhere that Subaru Outbacks (didn't they used to just be a trim level in the Legacy line?) were re-categorized as a "truck" by Subaru to get around EPA mileage standards. Hmmmm.

That said, they're great buggies. Unofficially (maybe officially) the state car of Vermont, too. DH has a Impreza WRX. It's a little rocket! All my in-laws seem to have Subarus. You go to a family affair, and it's like a freakin' dealership parking lot in the driveway!

[chickwhorips]

Wait!!! Are you talking Mini's - like Mini Coopers? Or mini - as in miniVAN?
:confused:

mini as in minivan.

i think the mini coopers are cool! though not very practical in anchorage.

[KnottedYet]

<Knot sits back in her leather armchair, puffs her pipe, adjusts her bifocals, smoothes down her tweed jacket, and waxes pedantic...>

Picking a car is like picking a bike. It's all about fit, function, and true love. Ride (I mean drive) a lot of makes and models, choose the components (I mean trim lines) that meet your needs and budget, and test drive, test drive, test drive.

And wear lycra... ;)

[Crankin]

Subarus are very popular in New England, but my personal experience (good friends have 2) is that they are sluggish on the highway and we couldn't really fit 4 bikes and luggage for 4 people going on a trip in the station wagon.
I had a 4 runner for 6 years. I loved it. Drove great in heavy blizzards and my son drove it to races all over New England. No need to take the wheel off.
I would personally go for the new Rav 4. It's much bigger than the previous models and you get Toyota reliability.

[KnottedYet]

I think I read somewhere that Subaru Outbacks (didn't they used to just be a trim level in the Legacy line?) were re-categorized as a "truck" by Subaru to get around EPA mileage standards. Hmmmm.


yeah, the poor Outback H6 only gets 22-24 mpg. The Outback H4 (same engine as the Legacy/Imp/Forester) gets the same mileage as the rest of them.

The H4 is pretty darn powerful as it is, so unless you have a large object to tow I'd think the H6 wouldn't be worth the lower gas mileage.

MotorWeek did a review of the Outback H6. They only got 20 mpg. http://www.mpt.org/motorweek/longterm/2001outback.shtml

[7rider]

<Knot sits back in her leather armchair, puffs her pipe, adjusts her bifocals, smoothes down her tweed jacket, and waxes pedantic...>

Picking a car is like picking a bike. It's all about fit, function, and true love. Ride (I mean drive) a lot of makes and models, choose the components (I mean trim lines) that meet your needs and budget, and test drive, test drive, test drive.

And wear lycra... ;)

I would also recommend for CWR - if a criteria for purchase is that your bikes fit inside, by all means...bring your bikes along when you shop! Pop open the hatch, fold down the seats, and put them inside! If you buy from a dealer, they shouldn't bat an eye. If you buy private sale, well....try to make sure the bikes are clean, first! :p

[KnottedYet]

I would also recommend for CWR - if a criteria for purchase is that your bikes fit inside, by all means...bring your bikes along when you shop! Pop open the hatch, fold down the seats, and put them inside! If you buy from a dealer, they shouldn't bat an eye. If you buy private sale, well....try to make sure the bikes are clean, first! :p

I did that with my dog! The dealerships were totally cool with it.:D They had Tyvek mat-things in the backs of the various cars, so he couldn't get them dirty.

[chickwhorips]

didn't think of that. thanks!

i looked at the Rav 4 but it doesn't seem like it has much room. i remember my friend's and it seems kinda small.

[chickwhorips]

i bank through wells fargo just because they are everywhere. i also have an account with a credit union down in arizona, not much good it does me now. i called and to get a loan through them, would be no less than 2 weeks. ouch!

so now the question is: do i get a loan through wells fargo whose rates seem to start at 7.59% or close my credit union in arizona, and go through one up here that starts at 6.81%.

my credit: i've gotten a loan when i was 20 for the alero that my dad co-signed on. i paid every bill early (besides being terrified of my dad and his threats if i didn't pay it, he also pounded into my head good credit) and sold the car when i moved here. that is my only car experience, i had that loan through GMAC and at 6% interest. otherwise i would guess my credit is good, if not excellent. hopefully this means i won't have to have someone co-sign on a vehicle again after having that one for about 3 years i think.

i feel so lost!

[mountainchick]

As a devout Subaru fan, I say Forester. :D :cool:

I have one of these back in the States! I loooove it...but am willing to sell if someone wants to buy ;) Its a 2005 Forester X and I got 30mpg on the highway with it.

[mimitabby]

I have one of these back in the States! I loooove it...but am willing to sell if someone wants to buy ;) Its a 2005 Forester X and I got 30mpg on the highway with it.

The states are a big place, where in the states is your car?

[pepe6599]

My girlfriends cousin bought his car from Las vegas and even with shipping the truck to Hawaii it was cheaper then if he bought it on island. Just an idea.

Good luck car shopping.

[xeney]

The RAV4 is little if you need to transport more than two people (including the driver). But the older models (before last year) have rear seats that come out completely, and then you have a ton of room.

We tend to leave the seats out for months at a time.

[mountainchick]

The states are a big place, where in the states is your car?

Colorado

[KnottedYet]

chick - try asking your credit union in AZ about the loan. with the new CU Service Center (1-866-692-8669) you can get your loan anywhere, not just in the state of your credit union. I got 4.5% loan through my credit union and they arranged the whole thing from the dealership through the CUSC in about 20 minutes.

[chickwhorips]

chick - try asking your credit union in AZ about the loan. with the new CU Service Center (1-866-692-8669) you can get your loan anywhere, not just in the state of your credit union. I got 4.5% loan through my credit union and they arranged the whole thing from the dealership through the CUSC in about 20 minutes.

i did call my credit union. they said they could do it, but it would take 2 weeks for everything to go through. :eek: :eek: :eek: :eek:

[Lifesgreat]

I love my 2005 Honda CRV. Not as much as my bike, though. :)

[emily_in_nc]

I love it! The women I bought my red mercedes from is 70 and drives a mini-cooper now!.

See? No need to avoid a particular vehicle because of your age! I bought my Element at age 43, and my step-mom bought one in her 60s. We both love them. The salesman when I bought mine said that boomers were loving and buying them just as much as the target 20-somethings demographic, much to Honda's surprise! :p

Emily

[emily_in_nc]

Subarus are very popular in New England, but my personal experience (good friends have 2) is that they are sluggish on the highway and we couldn't really fit 4 bikes and luggage for 4 people going on a trip in the station wagon.

Agreed. I drove a Forester for four years, and my DH always complained about how tiny it was on the long trips we take. With suitcases and a dog kennel, it was packed. If we took bikes in it, we had to stack them on their sides and there was no room for luggage or dogs then. The Element is much, much roomier, and bikes go in upright!

Plus, my Forester needed a new transmission after four years, and I was plagued by a "check engine" light that just couldn't be fixed for any length of time. I put a lot of miles on that car, but that just didn't seem right. The dealership where I live were jerks too, so I've sworn off Subies, even though I like the company's values.

We also used to have a Rav4, which was really tiny, but it was one of the earliest ones with 2 doors. They've changed a lot since then.

Emily

[Mr. Bloom]

Chick:

I am a banker, albeit, a commercial one, not consumer. What you've described sounds like good potential for a great credit rating...but there are other factors (it's a top secret black box that is more protected than the secret formula for Coca Cola).

Be Self Aware: If you're interested in getting your credit bureau, you can go to www.freecreditreport.com but beware, I don't think that it's "Free" to get your actual credit score.

Don't Just Compare on Rate: The two week lag in getting the 'best rate' from the credit union can wind up costing you more...say you save 1/2&#37; on the rate (about $150 over four years on a $15,000 loan)...you could save considerably more than that by being able to negotiate a better price by having the loan "locked up" or getting it through the dealer. In other words, the dealer will not negotiate the best price if they have to wait two weeks to close the deal. Use www.edmunds.com to help determine fair value of the car you're considering.

My bank doesn't do many car loans primarily because we can't compete with the rates that are offered through the dealer. SO, I recommend you pay a few $ to get your actual credit score...if it's over 750, then you'll be able to get the best deal possible with a low/no down payment. If it's over 700 or 720, you'll still get a good deal, no matter where the money comes from.

Strategy: Also, you might consider working with a male salesman. WHile they've gotten more 'sensitive', Silver and I learned long ago that many don't know how to negotiate with a strong-willed woman...and this tends to accrue in your favor.

Beware: If you know your credit score and the dealer asks for your name/address/ssn BEFORE you've picked out a car, give them your credit score instead...otherwise, they may be running a credit bureau report on you and every time someone (not you) pulls one, it's about 18 points off the score. SO, save them the trouble in 'prequalifying' you by giving them the score and making them wait to pull the credit bureau once you've settled on the car and the price.

Sorry to be so long. Good Luck

[snowtulip]

I have an XTERRA and I love it! It does get horrible gas mileage compared to everything nowadays, but I bought it primarily for my recreational activites (camping, hiking, biking) and try to make up environmentally in other ways (less driving). When I went shopping I was looking for a vehicle with good clearance and this has it. Apparently 2003 and 2004 models are good, the newer models have some issues I've heard.

[chickwhorips]

mr silver thank you for your insight! i appreciate it.

i will have to pull my credit report and see what my score is. i've been on edmunds.com a bunch looking at their advice. i also found out my friend use to work as a new/used sales girl, and she also worked in the financial department. i'm taking her along for ammo.

this next vehicle i get, i'm going to be well armed! watch out sales man! you have a wild one who is well armed coming your way!!!!! :D

[Hub]

Remember to check Kelly Blue Book online to get pricing when shopping for used.

Happy Shopping

[roguedog]

Hey CWR,

I agree with Mr Silver...

Other info for you for what it's worth...

Two of the largest auto lenders are Citi and Capital One. I'm not sure if you're going to run into problems with other lenders because you're in Alaska.

I know our auto division didn't lend in some states.. and I *think* Alaska was one of them. Only telling you this in case you run into issues.

I'd follow Mr. S's advice and definitely shop for a loan. Also, I believe it's very powerful to come to the table prequalified. At the place I worked, once you applied, we fed ex'd you a check basically so you can buy on the spot.

And lastly, as you know.. I'm a Toyota person :)

[Mr. Bloom]

i also found out my friend use to work as a new/used sales girl, and she also worked in the financial department. i'm taking her along for ammo.

this next vehicle i get, i'm going to be well armed! watch out sales man! you have a wild one who is well armed coming your way!!!!! :D

:D :D :D A BIG THUMBS UP from Mister S!!!!:D :D :D

One more thing, keep in mind that the salesman has an incentive to get the best price...then the finance manager has a totally separate incentive to get the highest rate and to sell high margin products like warranties. The finance manager will be the slickest one...better educated and much more highly paid.

[Shiraz]

Chick,
We just went through the "what to buy that will fit our bikes inside" . I had a Toyota 4 runner and loved it. I could fit two bikes in without any problem. We have the bike rack that sits flat and you take off the wheel and attach the fork. We sold the 4 runner to my daughter and bought a Honda Pilot. I love it even more. There is more room in the cargo than the 4 runner. Both hold their value very well.

[Wahine]

CWR, I have a 2000 XTerra and I love it. It's a V6 basic Frontier engine that has the rep that it goes forever and because it's only 170 HP it gets better mileage than some of the more recent models. I can get my bike in the back without taking anything off if I lay it down. If I stand it up, I have to take the front wheel off. The other fun thing is that it has little rings and places to hook bungee cords so you can tie things in place to keep them from falling on the dog(s). Plenty o' room for the mutts.

[makbike]

I have a Ford Focus stationwagon ZTW and it does great. With the seats folded down I can easily slide either of my bikes (DF or recumbent) in the back and still have a little room in reserve (I've been known to stop at Sam's after a ride and pick up a few things and they all fit in the back with the bike).

I also have two big dogs, a Great Dane (130 lbs) and a blue tick hound (70 lbs) both of which fit comfortably in the back with the seats up or down. The bottom line is the back is very roomy and I continue to be amazed at what will fit back there!

Mechanically, I've not had any problems with my Focus (2003 model). It has just under 68,000 miles on it. It handles well on snow or wet roads. It is a tad bit noisy - the only drawback as I see it.

[Mr. Bloom]

THis month's Consumer Reports magazine is the annual auto guide...might be a few $ well spent.

[chickwhorips]

THis month's Consumer Reports magazine is the annual auto guide...might be a few $ well spent.

is it the new or used?

how long are they usually out for? i won't be able to buy one till i get into town at the end of the month.

[makbike]

If you can't find a copy at a store check out your local public library for chances are good that they will have it available for you to read and copy.

[Tuckervill]

i did call my credit union. they said they could do it, but it would take 2 weeks for everything to go through.

I have had to buy a couple of cars recently that I didn't intend to buy, but because they were unplanned, I had to use credit. I used Capital One's instant check program....The check is FedExed to you after you've picked out your car. You can go to the dealer or wherever you get your car and it's just like buying with cash. Sellers love that.

Karen

[Tuckervill]

Beware: If you know your credit score and the dealer asks for your name/address/ssn BEFORE you've picked out a car, give them your credit score instead...otherwise, they may be running a credit bureau report on you and every time someone (not you) pulls one, it's about 18 points off the score. SO, save them the trouble in 'prequalifying' you by giving them the score and making them wait to pull the credit bureau once you've settled on the car and the price.

Yes. Absolutely do NOT give them your identifying information that they could use to pull a credit report. That would just be giving them the advantage. Any dealer that would even ASK before negotiating on the car is the dealer I would walk right out of.

Just go in with your own financing and then you don't have to negotiate on anything but price and features.

Karen

[chickwhorips]

i went to freecreditreport.com and checked my score.

its 774. i've had one auto loan (and only loan besides credit cards) i had it for 3 years. does this mean i have a good chance of getting the loan by myself with no one to co-sign and at a low rate?

[Mr. Bloom]

i went to freecreditreport.com and checked my score.

its 774. i've had one auto loan (and only loan besides credit cards) i had it for 3 years. does this mean i have a good chance of getting the loan by myself with no one to co-sign and at a low rate?

There are other factors, but this score is outstanding. Depending on your debt/income ratio, they may even reduce the downpayment requirement, unless your car payment is a huge &#37; of you income (say 40% or 50%). I'm a commercial banker, so I'm not totally up on consumer underwriting...and every institution is different.

Once, I was told by a dealer that 750 would qualify for no downpayment, but that was several years ago.

[chickwhorips]

i paid off my debt, only the foot surgeries are on my card at the moment. but the ratio between what i have as credit and what i owe is probably about 5-10%.

i don't plan on having a loan that makes me over 20% of my monthly income.

thank you mr for all your help! i feel much more confident about getting this vehicle on my own.

thank you everyone else for your vehicle knowledge. i have so much to think of when i start test driving cars!

[Tuckervill]

I haven't had anyone ask for a down payment on a car in quite some time. Credit score is similarly outstanding. I can imagine the only folks who do ask for a down payment would be more conservative local banks. Capital One will probably qualify you. My two 20-something sons have recently bought cars and neither had to make a down payment, either.

It could be different in Alaska.

Karen

[Tuckervill]

Oh, of course, it's better if you DO make a down payment, because it saves you money on interest. It's better still if you pay cash for the whole thing, but that's not always possible, as I have suffered recently.

Karen

[SheFly]

I just now have read all of the posts in this thread, since I, too, am in the market for a new "car". The most important thing for us in this purchase is being able to fit the bikes INSIDE the car - this includes our tandems, which are 8 feet long.

Sadly for me, this means nothing less than a mini-van. On the one hand, I totally understand the purchase as it is completely practical given the amount of car travel we do with bikes. On the other hand, we HAVE NO CHILDREN, and NEVER WILL. I am having a really tough time getting my brain around the "soccer mom" label associated with a mini-van.

Oh, and FWIW, DH is goiung to the dealer this afternoon with the tandem to be sure it fits - we already told the salesman that this was one of our primary purchasing criteria! And, we are Toyota folks - this will be our 6th car from the same dealer (Sienna).

SheFly

[SheFly]

I just now have read all of the posts in this thread, since I, too, am in the market for a new "car". The most important thing for us in this purchase is being able to fit the bikes INSIDE the car - this includes our tandems, which are 8 feet long.

Sadly for me, this means nothing less than a mini-van. On the one hand, I totally understand the purchase as it is completely practical given the amount of car travel we do with bikes. On the other hand, we HAVE NO CHILDREN, and NEVER WILL. I am having a really tough time getting my brain around the "soccer mom" label associated with a mini-van.

Oh, and FWIW, DH is going to the dealer this afternoon with the tandem to be sure it fits - we already told the salesman that this was one of our primary purchasing criteria! And, we are Toyota folks - this will be our 6th car from the same dealer (Sienna).

SheFly

[chickwhorips]

i'm looking through the consumer report catalog, seems like its mostly new cars, but there are a few spots that talk about older cars.

it did recommend this websight: http://www.bankrate.com/ for comparing loans. doesn't give much for alaska, but might for everywhere else.

[Mr. Bloom]

i'm looking through the consumer report catalog, seems like its mostly new cars, but there are a few spots that talk about older cars.

it did recommend this websight: http://www.bankrate.com/ for comparing loans. doesn't give much for alaska, but might for everywhere else.

Good luck in actually finding the rates offered on bankrate.com. One time I saw a great rate at a friend's bank (not my own). Called him with a serious inquiry...and he didn't know where the rate came from. It wasn't "bait and switch" it was simply some clerk who answer an inquiry but didn't know what they were talking about.... UGH!!!!

Also, I'm looking at the April '07 issue of Consumer Reports. It has an issue on "Used Cars to Avoid". I'm looking at the magazine...not one of their specialty publications.

[snapdragen]

I'm an online Consumer Reports subscriber. Here's their list of best used cars:
Acura Integra
Acura MDX
Acura RL
Acura RSX
(except ‘06)
Acura TL
Acura TSX
Buick Regal
Chevrolet Prizm
Honda Accord
Honda Civic
Honda Civic Hybrid
Honda CR-V
Honda Element
Honda Odyssey
Honda Pilot
Honda Prelude
Honda S2000
Infiniti FX
Infiniti G20
Infiniti G35
Infiniti I30, I35
Infiniti QX4
Lexus ES
Lexus GS
Lexus GX
Lexus IS
Lexus LS
Lexus RX
Lexus SC
Lincoln Town Car
Mazda Millenia
Mazda MX-5 Miata
Mazda Protegé
Mazda3
Nissan Altima
Nissan Maxima
Nissan Pathfinder
Pontiac Vibe
Scion xB
Subaru Forester
Subaru Impreza
Subaru Impreza WRX
Subaru Legacy
Subaru Outback
Toyota 4Runner
Toyota Avalon
Toyota Camry
Toyota Camry Solara
Toyota Celica
Toyota Corolla
Toyota Echo
Toyota Highlander
Toyota Land Cruiser
Toyota Matrix
Toyota Prius
Toyota RAV4
Toyota Sequoia
Toyota Sienna
Toyota Tundra

And Worst Used Cars:
BMW 7 Series
BMW X5 (V8)
Chevrolet Astro
Chevrolet Blazer
Chevrolet Express
Chevrolet S-10 (4WD)
Chevrolet Venture
Chevrolet Uplander
Chrysler
Town & Country (AWD)
Dodge
Grand Caravan (AWD)
GMC Jimmy
GMC Sonoma (4WD)
GMC Safari
GMC Savana
Infiniti QX56
Jaguar S-Type
Jaguar X-Type
Jeep Grand Cherokee
Kia Sedona
(except ‘06)
Land Rover Discovery
Land Rover LR3
Lincoln Aviator
Lincoln Navigator
Mercedes-Benz CLK
Mercedes-Benz
M-Class (V8)
Mercedes-Benz
S-Class (V8)
Mercedes-Benz SL
Nissan Armada
Nissan Titan
Oldsmobile Bravada
Oldsmobile Cutlass
Oldsmobile Silhouette
Pontiac Aztek
Pontiac Trans Sport
Pontiac Montana
Pontiac Montana SV6
Volkswagen Cabrio
Volkswagen Jetta
(turbo, gas)
Volkswagen Jetta (V6)
Volkswagen
New Beetle (4-cyl.)
Volkswagen Touareg
Volvo XC90 (6-cyl.)

[chickwhorips]

snap are those the 2007 or used?

i made copies of the pages in the magazine that had the best new and used. they sorted them by price which was very nice.

[Mr. Bloom]

snap are those the 2007 or used?

i made copies of the pages in the magazine that had the best new and used. they sorted them by price which was very nice.


I also subscribe on-line. It's used models that are proven dependable over many model years. To quote them:

"These models, listed alphabetically, have performed well in Consumer Reports road tests and have had several years of better-than-average reliability according to our survey respondents."

The longer a model has been around without major design overhauls, the more likely it is to be very reliable. For instance, Mercedes has frequent design changes and as a result, they have dependability problems. BUT, Sienna mini-van (like Silver's) has had cosmetic changes, but not major mechanical redesigns...therefore, it's dependable. Avoid the first model year after a redesign...the bugs may not be 'ironed out'.

[silver]

I just now have read all of the posts in this thread, since I, too, am in the market for a new "car". The most important thing for us in this purchase is being able to fit the bikes INSIDE the car - this includes our tandems, which are 8 feet long.

Sadly for me, this means nothing less than a mini-van. On the one hand, I totally understand the purchase as it is completely practical given the amount of car travel we do with bikes. On the other hand, we HAVE NO CHILDREN, and NEVER WILL. I am having a really tough time getting my brain around the "soccer mom" label associated with a mini-van.

Oh, and FWIW, DH is going to the dealer this afternoon with the tandem to be sure it fits - we already told the salesman that this was one of our primary purchasing criteria! And, we are Toyota folks - this will be our 6th car from the same dealer (Sienna).

SheFly


Shefly....that's what I have....a toyota sienna. I love/hate it. I love how it does everything that I need it to do, but hate the image it has. But practicality wins, and my precious Madone goes inside!!!!

I do wish it had the fold down seats like the newer models. I can just barely manage to wrestle them out of the car by myself (but I can). but I have wondered if having the fold down seats would take up some of the vertical space. Right now I need all the vertical space to roll my bike in.

[tygab]

Agreed. I drove a Forester for four years, and my DH always complained about how tiny it was on the long trips we take. With suitcases and a dog kennel, it was packed. If we took bikes in it, we had to stack them on their sides and there was no room for luggage or dogs then. The Element is much, much roomier, and bikes go in upright!

Plus, my Forester needed a new transmission after four years, and I was plagued by a "check engine" light that just couldn't be fixed for any length of time. I put a lot of miles on that car, but that just didn't seem right. The dealership where I live were jerks too, so I've sworn off Subies, even though I like the company's values.
Emily

My husband and I both have Subarus of roughly the same age and mileage, which we love as cars, and it's how we met so I feel we "should" always have a Subaru. Mine is a WRX wagon which I got when they first came to the US. Great to drive, and Subaru's AWD + snowtires combo is rock solid in winter (not that we had much of one this year). Anyway, long story short, I just got an Element a few months ago, and I love it too. The Subaru wagon simply cannot carry bikes + gear, kayaks + gear, camping gear and 2 people, even though this to me does not sound like that a crazy load. I disliked being forced to choose between biking or kayaking when we'd set out someplace. Even without two people's stuff, I had to arrange my bike into the interior since we have the kayak racks on it.

After looking at current Subaru offerings, the Forester's never caught my eye, and the Outback seemed too... I dunno, plushy and not giving us much more cargo space for what we wanted. I did go to test drive the new Outback. Add some frustrating interactions with dealer service departments (though nothing major has broken on the car), and I started looking at other vehicles.

The Element really became my vehicle of interest because of it's flexible and large interior. I can put the bikes, upright with NO changes to the wheels inside it. I can put the kayaks on top. And we'll still have room to throw camping gear and whatever else in there, with just some seat changes. I'm most undecided about if I'll remove one or both of the seats for the summer, but we'll see. It also gets pretty good MPG for a SUV/boxy type car, no worse than my Subaru, and takes regular gas (WRX is premium fuel due to the turbo). It has AWD and I took it on a ski trip two weeks ago where it handled quite well in fresh snow roads (though I will want to get snow/summer tires once the stock ones are done). [I got mine preowned which is nice because I got a longer warranty this way.]

I'll be able to wipe out the dirt we will get in it with just some cleaning cloths. Sounds about perfect to me and I can't wait to have it fully loaded up. I named it Bento. :D

[Mr. Bloom]

My husband and I both have Subarus of roughly the same age and mileage, which we love as cars, and it's how we met so I feel we "should" always have a Subaru.

Interesting statistic: Subaru is the best selling car in America...kinda. Here's why: Subaru is not a "full line". They only have a few models targeting the customer niche they serve well, so their success in that niche doesn't get the notoriety it deserves since all the other manufacturers make so many more units. This is also why a Subaru dealership will also represent other brands as well.

Hope that's your fill of esoteric knowledge for the day!

[Tuckervill]

The Element really became my vehicle of interest because of it's flexible and large interior. I can put the bikes, upright with NO changes to the wheels inside it. I can put the kayaks on top. And we'll still have room to throw camping gear and whatever else in there, with just some seat changes.

I still haven't put a hitch on mine, yet, but when I do, likely the bikes will go on the bike rack on the hitch, kayaks on top, and camping gear inside when we go camping. It doesn't rain much in the hot summer time around here, so bikes outside won't be much of an issue. It's those cross country bike trips (Oregon in 4 weeks, woohoo!) that need the bikes inside.

You can even build a PVC frame for a full-sized air mattress, which can fit in the back (seats out), and then sleep inside! I think directions are on the elementownersclub site.

Karen

[sbctwin]

I do wish it had the fold down seats like the newer models. I can just barely manage to wrestle them out of the car by myself (but I can). but I have wondered if having the fold down seats would take up some of the vertical space. Right now I need all the vertical space to roll my bike in.

I have a Honda Odysee 2004 model. I hate the "big" car feel, but like it for several reasons. We fold down the third row bench seat and remove one of the mid row bucket seats. My bike is rather small (650cc wheels) and rolls in very nicely. My husbands Trek is a comfort bike and is very tall with high handlebars. His fits in too, but we do have to eek it in because of the high handlbars, but once in, it stands up. We have bungeed cord a freestanding bikestand where the bucket seat was and we can set our front wheels in and the bikes don't fall over each other. We leased this vehicle. When it is time to look at another vehicle, part of me wants a more economical, small car because it is just DH and me, but the convenience of being able to keep my bike inside the car is too great. I don't like dealing with car racks. At 4'10", everything is a challenge to reach. I also like the van because I sit higher....

[SheFly]

Shefly....that's what I have....a toyota sienna. I love/hate it. I love how it does everything that I need it to do, but hate the image it has. But practicality wins, and my precious Madone goes inside!!!!

I do wish it had the fold down seats like the newer models. I can just barely manage to wrestle them out of the car by myself (but I can). but I have wondered if having the fold down seats would take up some of the vertical space. Right now I need all the vertical space to roll my bike in.

The verdict from DH yesterday was positive - the TT tandem (which is longer than our regular road tandem) will go into the back of the van WITHOUT removing the front wheel (although he did have to turn the bars). I am heading to the dealer to write a big check later today.

The rear seats in the new model fold down, which is KEY for us. They do fold flat to the rest of the floor, so you don't take up any vertical room when they are down. Apparently the space that they fit into is where the spare tire used to sit - they have moved the tire UNDER the van to provide the extra space inside...

SheFly

[Trek420]

I'm an online Consumer Reports subscriber. Here's their list of best used cars:
Acura Integra
.......
And Worst Used Cars:
.......
Volkswagen Cabrio
Volkswagen Jetta
(turbo, gas)
Volkswagen Jetta (V6)
Volkswagen
New Beetle (4-cyl.)
Volkswagen Touareg
Volvo XC90 (6-cyl.)

Dang, and I was really looking at VW bio-diesel, Rabbit or Jetta and there they it is at the bottom of the bottom of the list, hmmmm

[silver]

The verdict from DH yesterday was positive - the TT tandem (which is longer than our regular road tandem) will go into the back of the van WITHOUT removing the front wheel (although he did have to turn the bars). I am heading to the dealer to write a big check later today.

The rear seats in the new model fold down, which is KEY for us. They do fold flat to the rest of the floor, so you don't take up any vertical room when they are down. Apparently the space that they fit into is where the spare tire used to sit - they have moved the tire UNDER the van to provide the extra space inside...

SheFly

OH! pictures!! with the bike in of course! :)

[emily_in_nc]

The Element really became my vehicle of interest because of it's flexible and large interior. I can put the bikes, upright with NO changes to the wheels inside it. I can put the kayaks on top. And we'll still have room to throw camping gear and whatever else in there, with just some seat changes.

Yep, that's us! We have the back seats out pretty much permanently so bikes can go inside upright, with plenty of room around them for luggage and gear, kayaks on top, and we're good to go. You also brought up a good point about the wipeable interior - I love it. I had bike grease stains on the carpet in my Forester's rear section.

I believe the Element also comes in a hybrid model now (confirmation, anyone?) I bought mine in '04 before that was an option. I would definitely go for it now if I were in the market, but I'll drive this one til it falls apart. :)

Emily

[Trek420]

I believe the Element also comes in a hybrid model now (confirmation, anyone?) I bought mine in '04 before that was an option. I would definitely go for it now if I were in the market, but I'll drive this one til it falls apart. :)

Emily

Not yet. I read somewhere that the teeny tiny itsy bitsy Honda Fit is close to cargo room of the Element and it's true:

Fit - passenger volume 90 cu ft
mpg 31/38

Element - 102.6 -105.4 cu feet.
mpg 22/27

[Blueberry]

I believe the Element also comes in a hybrid model now (confirmation, anyone?) I bought mine in '04 before that was an option. I would definitely go for it now if I were in the market, but I'll drive this one til it falls apart. :)
Emily

Nope - no hybrid. There's a rumor that there will be a diesel model next year, though. I might hold our for that, or might look at the Fit - they are cute:D :D (and I'm getting a little tired of various and sundry VW "issues")

CA

[Trek420]

VW's have "issues"?

[snapdragen]

VW's have "issues"?

They want to be Audis?

[Mr. Bloom]

They want to be Audis?

:D :D :D :D

[Tuckervill]

The Honda Fit was my car of choice when I got ready to replace the Beetle. That came sooner than I thought it would. They do, indeed show a bike inside the Fit in their brochures, but it was a small bike.

Bikes will not stand up front-to-back in a Fit. I checked. It's more like the back of a Subaru than the back of an Element. A bike on the small side WILL stand up if you fold up both back seats towards the back and roll it in side to side.

Ultimately, I couldn't get a Fit because my 6'7" hubby could not squeeze into the front seat, which is a requirement. Even the Element has less passenger side leg room than the Beetle did. A CRV would have held the bikes, too, but not as easily as the Element--and hubby still couldn't fit. He wouldn't be comfortable in the Element on a long trip, either.

About VW reliability--it's a problem. There are "known issues", but most of them are easy fixes, and there is a huge online community (newbeetle.org is one, with a lot of bio and petro-diesel info) which provides help similar to what this forum does for bikes. I owned a NB for 5 years (one a TDI), and nothing major happened that I didn't anticipate or prevent, because of the forums. Still, it's nice not to have to carry a Bentley manual for the car in the trunk all the time. If you want ultimate reliability, get a Honda or a Subaru. If you don't mind tinkering around and doing stuff yourself or living with broken window switches and the like, get a Volkswagen.

Even with all the issues, I loved all (5) of my (old and New) Beetles. The Element just doesn't have the same panache. But it's got All Wheel Drive! :)

Karen

[KnottedYet]

Ooooh, a diesel Honda Element.... biodiesel.... ooooh.

I'm holding out for a diesel Subaru, but a diesel Element (if it were stick and awd) might tempt me.

[emily_in_nc]

Nope - no hybrid. There's a rumor that there will be a diesel model next year, though. I might hold our for that, or might look at the Fit - they are cute:D :D (and I'm getting a little tired of various and sundry VW "issues")

CA

Thanks for the info! Someone told me the Element came in a hybrid now...obviously misinformed. I haven't seen a Honda Fit yet!

Emily

[SheFly]

OH! pictures!! with the bike in of course! :)

No pics with the bike in just yet (we just had a big snowstorm here in New England - bikes are sadly back on the trainers in the basement...). Thought I would share a couple pics of the new bike hauler in the meantime, though.

Oh, and I LOVE the way it rides! Very comfy...

SheFly

[Tuckervill]

Nice color. :) I can't believe an 8 ft tandem fits back there! wow.

This is what I worked on half the day yesterday. It's for our trip to Oregon. I probably wouldn't use it on a regular day. The bikes fit fine with the wheels on and I don't mind them moving around on short trips. I'm making a canvas bag to hold the front wheels, which I will hang from a hook on the side, but now I've got them velcro-strapped to their bikes. It's surprisingly stable. The attachments are called blockheads, from Yakima, in case someone asks.

Today is a dry run for our trip, while go to Little Rock for a few days. I'm having some concerns about the board sliding around, so I've got rug grippers under the feet. I took the left seat out altogether (simple), although I think they would have fit. The wheels would not be able to hang up, though.

Karen

[chickwhorips]

very nice tucker!

[SheFly]

Nice color. :) I can't believe an 8 ft tandem fits back there! wow.


Only with the second row seats out, and turning the front wheel to a 90 degree angle with the frame - but it DOES fit. If the snow ever goes away here, I will put the TT tandem (it's longer) in and take a pic to show you...

And I like the color of your car too ;) .

Nice job on the rack for the Element, BTW - we have a VERY similar rack that we use in the bed of the pick up, and will likely use in the Sienna now as well. That was going to be my choice for a new car, but the tandem wouldn't fit :( .

SheFly

[Cha Cha]

Not sure if it's much help - but can comment on the Volvo V70 and the Audi A4, both wagons...

The Volvo will hold two bikes with the 2/3 'half' of the rear seat folded - i.e. there is still room for one backseat passenger. Volvo also makes an interior rack for two bikes, but for some reason I think you have to take off the seats or something.... I'm not sure if it would fit a tandem, but the front passenger seat will also fold completely flat with the back seats, so it's good for long items. Cha Cha (the bike) is in and out of my V70 all the time, and it's a breeze. Disadvantage: it has the notoriously unreliable volvo electrical system, and maintenance is a bit pricey.

DBF has the A4 and loves it. It also will fit our two bikes inside, plus plenty of travel stuff. He also has a 2-bike roof rack, which works well also. Reliability appears to be a lot better.

True story: our first date was 'blind', and DBF pulled into the restaurant parking lot right after I got out of my car - and parked next to me. Not only do we both drive import station wagons, but they are both silver! Who knew! It was a nice ice-breaker - and the rest is history!

Happy Monday all!

[singletrackmind]

Whoo, am I late!

4Runner. Excellent. I have a 96 un-lifted with a 3.4 manual tranny. 4x4. It's suprisingly capable with no modifications.

19 mpg, about a 50/50 hwy/city driving w/10% ethanol gas. Not pretty.

I can carry a bike with the front wheel off without folding the rear seats. I use a sportworks hitch rack, though, and carry a baby trailer and all my bike stuff inside.

Stay away from the 3.0 (95 and older), underpowered engine, head gasket issues.

In the 3rd gens (96-2001, IIRC) the 99 is tallest. Get one with an e-locker if you can find it. Manual trans is better gas mileage wise. If you get an automatic it might be worth your while to get a transmission oil cooler. Don't bother with 2 wheel drive. If you get one with lift under 3" of suspension lift is recommended due to the strain on the CV joints. Body lift is another story, just remember the higher it goes, the more top-heavy it becomes. These things do fall over sometimes.

If you do your own maintenance it's not too bad with the 3.4 engine. It's no, say, Bronco II but if you fashion a funnel so you don't have to remove the skid plate oil changes are ok. Doing a timing belt and water pump weren't horrible, plugs are easy. It does have a timing belt so bank on that being changed every 60-90,000 miles. Also, the original water pump usually has to be changed too. Taken care of, the engine should last a very long time. Mine's at 156,000 miles, still going strong.

For more information on the 4runner try yotatech.com
Yes, there is a lot of wheeling tech, but there's also a ton of good information for the stock 4runner as well and the site is friendly and clean. There, the search button is your friend.

If you have any questions I can help with, like measurements in my '96 or whatever I'd be pleased to answer what I can.

[Pedal Wench]

didn't think of that. thanks!

i looked at the Rav 4 but it doesn't seem like it has much room. i remember my friend's and it seems kinda small.

I'm chiming in a little late, I know... The new Rav4 is significantly larger than the pre-2006 models. If your friend's was older, it's about 14 inches shorter! The new ones seem perfect for a few bikes, but I'm open for opinions. (Shopping too...)

[chickwhorips]

i would like to thank all of you for your help.

i purchased my vehicle last night..... drum roll please........ i got a..... '05 Honda Element. it is a blueish/silverish. i will get pictures. it was a little more than i wanted to spend, but its a great vehicle and i got a good deal. i couldn't find anything else that would match what i got in the price range that i got either.

[Mr. Bloom]

Congrats. Good choice. I'm jealous

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Yep- welcome to the Honda Element club...where you can just load two full size road bikes right into the back, standing up back there, without taking off any wheels. :p :p We LUV ours, and we sleep in the back while camping!

[Bikingmomof3]

Whoo Hooo! Congratulations CWR! How does Peanut like the new car?

[dingster1]

Woot!!! GOod choice. When the Element first came out I thought it was the UGLIEST thing! But now that I've gotten back into biking, and don't want to do a hitch thing, it's looking much better.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

MOst people used to think the VW beetle was pretty ugly way back when too.

Hey Chickwhorips- what color did you get?? Ours is the sunset orange with grey panels.

[KnottedYet]

Congratulations on the new dog-and-bike-carrier!! :D

[chickwhorips]

How does Peanut like the new car?

she got in easily and crawled right in the back seat. seemed very happy to me.

it is silver with blue.

[Bikingmomof3]

she got in easily and crawled right in the back seat. seemed very happy to me.

it is silver with blue.


Sweet! :cool:

[Blueberry]

Congrats! I'll be in the market for a new car soon, as I suspect my Golf is on its last legs. Element and Subie are at the top of my list!

Enjoy!!

Carrie Anne

[Mr. Bloom]

it is silver with blue

My Favorite Colors (with Silver of course being THE BEST!!!):D :D

[Tuckervill]

Welcome to the E club! Check out elementownersclub.com. Lots of things you can do with it.

Mine's Tango Red Pearl. No gray fenders. :)

Karen

[chickwhorips]

thanks tucker!

does anyone have a cd changer in theirs? i think i have a 6 cd changer, but have no idea how to put more than one cd in.

[Tuckervill]

You know, I think I have a 6 cd changer, too, but since I have XM built-in, I haven't tried to use it! hmmm...

I think with most of them you just load the CDs one at a time, and the radio tells you what to do.

Karen

[chickwhorips]

i have XM too in mine, but its available everywhere but alaska & hawaii.

i tried just to keep feeding it, and it didn't work. booo!!!!!

i need to get an owner's manual. mine didn't have one.

[DrBee]

Congrats CWR! I have an 04 Element and love it! It's so nice to be able to just roll the bikes in the back - you'll love it! Have fun!

[Starfish]

OK, chiming in late, here, but for anyone still looking for their vehicle, consider a used Chevy Astro Van. They don't make them anymore, but they are the only small passenger van (I think) built on a truck chassi. They run forever...easily 300,000 miles. They come in AWD, and they are HUGE inside compared to the little bullet-shaped minivans. My sister-in-law has one that is cherry red with great chrome wheels. I always thought if I was going to drive a van, I wanted it to look like someone was having sex in the back rather than having kids in the back! LOL...just my own image problems! :o ;)

[surgtech1956]

Congrats on the Element, love em. A friend of mine from work just bought one, a redish color - out of 60 people I was the only one who sided with her. She loves it for her bike too. I have a Jeep Grand Cherokee - I love JEEPS. My bike fits laying down, but thats it, have to use my bike rack. My next one is going to be a Jeep Wrangler. Anyone a Jeep Lover too????

[chickwhorips]

how do you girls strap down the bike or bikes in the back of the element and what kind of staps do you use?

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

how do you girls strap down the bike or bikes in the back of the element and what kind of staps do you use?

This is the "lazy" way, and maybe not the best way for really long distance bumpy drives:

Take the back seats OUT completely.
Open the back all the way. Lift your bike (don't take the wheels off or anything) into the back either front first or back first. It depends on which side you want to use- best to lean it with the derailleur side away from the wall. Lean it against the side of the car interior.
Take a long nylon luggage strap with adjustable buckle and thread it around both the top tube and the hand-hold handle above the passenger door near the ceiling. Buckle and pull the strap as tight as you can without lifting the bike off the floor. Use two straps if it makes you feel more secure. If you are really picky, drape a blanket between the bike and the side of the car for added protection.
Off you go!