<p>Agree -anything made of rubber (hoses, wipers, etc.) will deteriorate with time even without wear due to oxidation. Ditto for a battery that sat without being recharged for a while. But that is such a minor stuff compared to the rest.</p>
<p>And ditto for stuff in the fuel line. We drive our s’s car about once a week (I took it to work today when my Lexus was in for its 50K service. BTW, a 50K service is essentially an oil change. Our local ASE certified mechanic did it, and turned off the silly “maintenance required” light. $20.)</p>
<p>Well folks, I bought the Highlander on Saturday. No Kidding. This was such a no brainer, I’m shocked I even questioned myself. Let me say that the man who owned the car was such a gentleman. We both said this was the best and easiest deal we ever made. That’s how life should be. When both parties feel good about the “deal”. Best car buying experience I ever had. He’s 90 year old and his wife is 87. They are both so vital and fun. I want to be them when I grow up. The End :)</p>
<p>I know you will enjoy having this car! My husband would tell you that you need a giant Labrador to ride in it (that was my excuse for buying one).</p>
<p>sabaray- How do you keep your labrador in the back. Do you have one of those gates?
We have a 1 yr old lab who is not good about staying in the back. We have a Land Cruiser and a BMW X3 if anyone has any suggestions.
Artmommy- enjoy your new car.</p>
<p>artmommy77:
Congrats - it sounds as if was a great transaction all around.</p>
<p>mom60:
We have a boxer who loves going for rides. When riding in the car we put a dog harness on him and clip the harness to one of the metal rings in the floor of the back of the SUV. The lead on the rope clipping him in is long enough that he can move around the back of the SUV but not into the seat area. The main reason is for his safety in case we need to stop suddenly but also for his safety if we’re stopped with a window down and if he was tempted to jump out. It’s also far safer for everyone to not have a dog suddenly jump on a driver or something. This system works well and is quick and easy to do.</p>
<p>Enjoy the car (and if you have a used one to sell, DadII is looking for one 
)</p>
<p>ucsd<em>ucla</em>dad, that’s a great idea. Our dog loves to ride–even to the vet. I only wish I could get him to stay in the back in the far back. He fully expects to ride in the “middle” seat and usually wedges himself in the footspace.</p>