On this Bumper to Bumper radio show, Dave Riccio of Tri-City Transmission in Phoenix AZ talks about the value of using Consumer Reports Magazine to research cars before buying. Also on this show:

• Is Consumer Reports a good place to go before buying a car?
• Toyota has seven cars in the Consumer Reports top cars.
• What kind of cars to the Bumper to Bumper guys drive?
• Different personality types pick different cars.
• Renting a car is a good way to see if you like it.
• 1998 Ford Mustang. Owns a driver training program. Wants to modify car to use an electric remote for brake or turning off car.
• 2000 Ford Ranger with V6. Squeaking noise after starting.
• Does not recommend buying a first year model.
• MPG estimates on new cars are not always accurate.
• 1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo. Engine keeps overheating. Radiator and coolant is full. Has changed stats, water pump, and sensor.
• 2004 Jeep Wrangler. Needs to find a good car shop.
• 2005 Grand Caravan. Won't turn over when starting. Check engine light is on.
• 2004 Kia Sedona. Electric door locks with remote. Doors lock and unlock quickly by themselves.
• When purchasing tires for an all-wheel vehicle, do I need to buy them all at the same time?
• 1998 Ford Expedition. Four wheel drive is not working.
• Ford F350. For a six-tire vehicle, what order do you replace tires?
• 2009 Honda Sonata. Bought a new bumper and can't find a shop to install it.

Cars talked about on this show are the 1998 Ford Mustang, 2000 Ford Ranger, 1998 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 2004 Jeep Wrangler, 2005 Grand Caravan, 2004 Kia Sedona, 1998 Ford Expedition, Ford F350, and the 2009 Honda Sonata.