Originally Posted by RICK...

I read a lot of threads and I can say I've only ever seen one or two where the newbie has had a hissy fit, but that's generally because they are spoken down to as if they couldn't possibly have any idea what they're talking about and made to look stupid.

The sole reason I stay on this site is because of the amount of knowledge there is. And it's the only reason I paid for my membership, as I felt I needed to give something back...

I've gone from brand new company cars/lease cars to buying a Classic Impreza. The most I could probably do when I got it four months ago is change the wheel! Thanks to this site every issue I've had I've managed to sort myself, which is a massive achievement for me lol, as I'd normally just pay a garage to do it!

When I first joined and had a browse, all I'd stumble across is bitching, arguments etc, so my first impressions of the site were pretty poor.

I also find it quite cliquey in places, I've tried to get involved in a few threads and just get totally blanked.

There are quite a few welcoming members and there are a lot of nice people, but the general feeling I get is that it's old school members only and newbies can do one!

edit - Oh and one last thing, I honestly don't think there is enough moderation on the forum as quite a few threads get way out of hand, this is the first time I've ever seen a moderator post since I joined!