01/10/2015
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//// After extensive research: The choice of which vehicle to purchase may be simpler than you think. The two most important things to consider are the ENGINE and TRANSMISSION. The auto manufacturers are digging deeper into the consumers' pockets by producing vehicles with inferior parts that will require "replacement" during regular "maintenance" intervals.
There are two basic factors that will make a significant difference in the cost and reliability of the vehicle throughout its lifetime. One being whether the engine has a "timing belt" or a "timing chain" made of steel. Many vehicles are now equipped with an engine timing belt, made of rubber, that must be changed every 30k-60k miles (approx) and on occasion they break. A broken timing belt can cause severe damage to the engine and a rebuild is expensive. Another factor to consider is if the vehicle is equipped with a real AUTOMATIC transmission instead of a CVT transmission or the DUAL CLUTCH transmission. The CVT automatics also use a belt made of rubber. The DUAL CLUTCH automatics actually have clutch plates similar to manual transmissions. A hydraulic system operates the dual clutch automatically and will require replacement of the clutch plates in the future.
In conclusion: Until there's a solution for battery life performance and we're all driving electric vehicles, be sure that you consider these factors when purchasing your next gas powered vehicle. I recommend an ENGINE with a TIMING CHAIN and an AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION if you prefer not to change gears manually with a clutch pedal.