I know from experience that cars that are still in production that are more than five years old can be difficult to find parts for, especially if it was a limited edition model. We have had trouble finding parts for some of our cars and have had to find good used parts. I'm talking North American models that are still produced now

Right, so why worry in particular about the fact that the Matrix is a pontiac which was one of the (many) GM brands that were axed?

What do you mean by 'difficult to find'?

I purchased a new Subaru a couple of years ago. It's engine blew after 10,000kms. It took 2 months for a new one to be shipped from Japan. In that context, the part was hard to get hold of but it was still available, just not in local stock. Hard to believe current production vehicles aren't having spare parts made for them, or there isn't a warehouse of parts ready for distribution as required, even if it takes a little patience for them to arrive.

I purchased a 40yr old Spanish motorcycle last month for restoration and getting new (old stock) parts for that is a breeze.

So much for Subaru being a viable alternative to an Audi

Ah, the foolproof "one data point sample"

Subaru engines are quite commonly used in home built / ultralight aircraft due to their reliability... AFAIK thats not something that can be said for Audis

Dont know why they wouldnt use an aerospecific engine though..

No they look like shit too

Im having deja vu all over again...

I mean difficult to find in that dealerships can't actually get anymore as the parts are no longer made for that particular model and everyone is sold out difficult to find. For a lot of people they wouldn't necessarily know where to go for a good second hand part, let alone know what they are looking for. Not necessarily engine/running parts but trim/lights etc. For some this would not be an issue for others it is, believe me, for some it is I am talking Explorers/Expeditions... Especially ones that have had a facelift before a relaunch iykwim.

Also resale can be harder, which is why some discontinued makes of cars are cheaper than ones still in production.

As for really old stuff, if you were to purchase a '69 Mustang Fastback, you will be able to find every single part NOS or reproduction that you need, however if you are to restore a '74-'76 Gran Torino, you will find you have to look much harder for good parts at a reasonable price (especially wheel arch trim). SO it depends on what your restoring.

Oh and just for info for anyone looking at Escapes or Fusions:http://www.usatoday.com/story/money/...fires/1743203/

Didn't read the whole thread, but we love our Rav4. Forester was also on my shortlist. CVR highly rated for this class too.

Wouldn't mind an MDX if I could afford it...

Pattern parts are and will always be available for popular vehicles. Can't remember the last time I purchased a genuine vehicle part. Other than a used part from a salvage yard.

Not necessarily when it comes to trim.

Trim, huh lol, who buys trim

Now there's a thought? Anybody any comments on the Acura MDX..probably a little big for my needs..i could opt for a new Passat and purchase some winter tyres..if your looking for a good mid range 4x4 what about the VW Tiguan?

Very particular husbands, that's who

I am sure my old girl could benefit greatly from some 'trim'.
The problem is - where to start and where will it end.