Hanging with Paulie: Reviews, Rides, and Regrets… All for Your Benefit…and entertainment
Car Shopping: A Buyer’s Perspective
Buying a used car can be full of hidden risks, from misleading listings to undisclosed damage and inflated prices. In this firsthand account, a buyer shares real experiences navigating Facebook Marketplace and dealerships, uncovering issues like burnout abuse, “cosmetic” damage that signals neglect, structural alterations disguised as minor flaws, and Carfax reports that don’t tell the full story.
The article also highlights the dangers of overpriced vehicles, sellers with unrealistic expectations, and potential odometer fraud through instrument cluster swaps or unethical OBD tools. It explains how some states may issue clean titles even when insurance has declared a vehicle a total loss, making independent verification essential.
Key takeaway: trust sellers—but always verify. Doing proper research, asking the right questions, and staying emotionally detached can help buyers avoid costly mistakes and confidently navigate the used car market.
Storming the Car Deal: Auto Tempest
Tired of jumping between Craigslist, Autotrader, and Facebook Marketplace just to find one good car? AutoTempestsimplifies the process by letting you search multiple platforms at once. It’s a powerful, free tool that helps you cut through the noise and actually find your next vehicle faster.
Car Edge: Giving YOU the Edge or Overrated?
Car shopping doesn’t have to mean hours at the dealership or stressful negotiations. In this hands-on review of CarEdge, I tested their AI-powered negotiation tool to see if it actually delivers better deals—or just adds another subscription. Here’s what worked, what didn’t, and whether it’s worth your money.
Car Shopping: A Consumer’s Musings
Still searching for the perfect used enthusiast car? In this installment of Paulie's Picks, we break down the best car search tools available right now and compare the top contenders for the ultimate driver's car under $30K.
Car Search Tools Worth Bookmarking
AutoTempest aggregates listings from CarGurus, AutoTrader, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace in a single search. CarEdge's AI negotiator lets you set a target price on any VIN and handles the back-and-forth for you — a genuine time-saver for serious buyers.
Mazda Miata vs BRZ vs GR86 vs WRX
The Mazda Miata remains one of the most accessible used sports cars on the market, with NC2 models available at nearly every price point. The Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 have taken the lead thanks to a second-generation upgrade and the distinctive flat-four boxer engine. The Subaru WRX rounds out the list as a capable but slightly too-practical alternative.
The search is narrowing. Follow along for the final verdict.
Why I’m Taking a Break from Car Shopping
What if buying a car felt like your friend telling you to marry his cousin Olga after showing you a ten-year-old photo? That’s what some dealership experiences feel like. In this comic, I explore the red flags of car shopping—refusing inspections, rushed test drives, and suspicion toward enthusiasts—and why finding the right car should feel more like a good relationship than a blind commitment.