Car Talk

January 1989

Dear Tom and Ray:

We just bought an '88 Peugeot 505 SW8 Wagon. The dealership we bought it from is small, family owned, and responsive. We got a good deal (we think), and we love our new wagon. It's safe (we think), has a third rear seat for the kids, and is quite comfortable. The problem is that I read recently that the Peugeot 505 is listed as one of the most complained about cars. So what's going to go wrong? Doug

Beat up old car

TOM: I think it was Lord Nelson who said "It is better to travel in hope, even then to arrive." I never understood why he said that. Maybe he owned a Peugeot.

RAY: I don't know why Lord Nelson said it either, and I have even less of an idea why my brother just repeated it. But in our experience, the Peugeot is no worse than average mechanically--and in many respects much better. Your great disadvantage is that you don't live in France. Aside from having to wait those crucial extra days for Beaujolais Nouveau to arrive here in the states, you may find yourself lacking some essential Parisian engine parts at some future date--particularly if you keep this car until--say--the Cubs win the National League East again.

TOM: The other problem with Peugeots is--like all French cars--they're weird. Vinnie, down at the corner gas station, is not going to be able to fix this car--although he may have fun trying. If you have a good dealership nearby, you can at least be assured that you'll be able to find out what's wrong with the car. I suggest you relax and enjoy the 505. Nothing may ever go wrong with it! But just in case, invest in a thick crossword puzzle book to keep you occupied while you're waiting for that set of special metric lug nuts to float over on le next barge.

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