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Well, buy an Insight that doesn't need work then! Mine has been rock solid, I feel more comfortable and secure about taking it on long trips than any other vehicle I've owned. And, unlike most other vehicles, I feel like miles are nearly irrelevant in this one, so long as it's not burning oil and the IMA light isn't on. Yours was a bit of a beater, Balto, and buying a project is always a headache.
With underbody panels on and something other than RE92's, the Insight isn't actually all that loud, IMO. Most of the cabin noise is from overinflated tires that are loud to begin with, on bad roads. The difference between Michelin Energy Savers and Potenzas is actually pretty huge in terms of cabin noise, and if you're willing to sacrifice a little more MPG, dropping the pressure a little helps tremendously.
I've stuffed the doors and dash in mine with bits of high density foam to get rid of all of the tiny rattles (zero left) and it helps with sound insulation. I also have tracked down all of the squeaks and rattles in the engine bay and suspension, and frankly, when most people get in it they comment on how quiet it is. "Oh, I didn't know it was running.
I wouldn't put my mother in an Insight today, but I feel it is and always has been an enthusiast's car.
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