Is there any real way to convince friends and family that domestic-built cars are good enough? People ask me all the time about which import brand such as Toyota, Honda, or BMW, is the best for their next purchase. When I suggest they look at Ford or GM, I get the oddest looks like I'm suggesting suicide or something. Help!

There is a valid reason lots of folks steer towards Toyota and Honda. Even more so when buying used. They are safe, reliable and go the long haul. They hold their value and are cost effective to maintain. That's all we sell on our used car lot. They rarely come back with warranty issues, and folks are happy with their purchase for years to come. Amy Mattinat Probably because most people like to move in the same direction! Toyota and Honda have great maintenance history. BMW does not compare with the other choices however a nice car. I would also take a look at Chrysler. They have some very stylish cars this year. I think women will be pleasantly surprised with the quality and the features available with Chrysler. When you make your best deal, make sure you ask if they can throw in a few years of oil changes. I think they just might! Good Luck! Joy Sherman www.msmotorcars.com Domestic vs Import Purchase Let us not forget, there are quite a few "imports" being made in the good 'ol USA...Toyota and Honda products to name a few...many of the imports have crossed over technology in partnership with the domestic brands...Mazda and Ford have had ties for years, to mention one. Look at the recall lists and you will find many imports such as Toyota. If anyone is considering a particular vehicle (import or domestic) they should ask a few actual owners of the vehicles, about their experiences...you will find that many import owners have problems just as the domestics do, only more expensive to fix. Many domestic owners are very happy with their Fords and Chevy's. Saturn owners are very happy with their vehicles and the treatment they receive at the dealer level. Look on the freeways and shopping mall parking lots, and you will see a ton of domestic made cars and trucks. Also, the types of cars we see more of depends on which part of the country we live in...imports are visible more-so amongst the domestics on the west coast and domestics more visible in the central and eastern states, most likely due to the production plants and their locations. Most import corporations have headquarters on the west coast in Southern Claifornia, such as Toyota, Nissan, Honda and Acura. Domestics are worth giving a try. Remember, no matter which brand you choose, the vehicle should fit your needs and budget and you should always do your home work and background checks. Deanna Cross President The Spirited Maverick Media Company, LLC www.WomensAutomotiveNetwork.com