Here in California, cars have always been kings. Look at the respect we refer to the highway. It is not just the 405, but the 405, a very unique monument to human ingenuity and aspirations as the great pyramid of Giza.
Still, California is the worst place to become a driver in many ways. It’s hard to beat the view from the PCH, but you can always turn it into a parking lot. And the troublesome emission standards — we can happily impose on other parts of the country — makes staying in street legal a boring throw.
This dichotomy generally applies to the automotive industry. As a driver, we didn’t have any more options, but these options can look disappointing and similar and restrictive, especially if you want a good old-fashioned gas gazler.
The cutting edge technology is at your disposal, but rather than enhancing it, it often hinders the driving experience.
When it comes to buying a car, I start going to the dentist every day. It takes disorientation and time, and you never know how hurt it will be.
Luckily, we have Lauren’s correction to relieve our pain. Longtime industry journalists and automotive experts are here to help you with Quick Fix, a regular feature that answers your car questions.
– Matt Himes, Managing Editor
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Welcome to Quick Fix. I’ll try to solve your car’s confusion. One question at a time.
After decades covering the industry, I developed my immunity to cars around hype and double talk. It’s not harmful that I’m a mechanic and an automotive entrepreneur.
Whether you buy a car, do insurance shopping, or deal with the myriad complications of being a driver in 2025, I want to use the experience to help you. Send your question.
After all, that’s the fun part.
Today’s questions come from Matt in Whittier, California. He writes: “After driving a used Tesla Model X for several years, my wife is set to upgrade to the new Model 3. My question is, lease or purchase – especially does Elon allow lease buyouts?
“Bonus question for you: I don’t think it will work, but can I suggest a Tesla alternative that I can sell to my wife?”
Check out my answers in the video below – and send me the car questions I answered at getquickfix@pm.me.
