You know - I used to live on a dirt road and we talked to a dealership awhile back about the rocks getting kicked up and killing our A/C. Some manufacturers may offer an undercarriage cover. Look into it.

Also chains on tires. While tire advancements have been made within the last 4 decades, chains are a handy thing to have - and they're not just for 'mountainous regions' - my parents are from the east and (especially in upper new york state where there is a TON of snow) they used chains. I would definitely buy these even after you get all purpose tires. Tires get worn, let's face it, and if you see your neighbor's car with 'em on, you should go ahead and put yours on, too! When in Michigan, do as the Michiganians do - they know what they're doing!

As for your question - my parents are from the north, and I asked them awhile back why their old jackets were not only "different" but drastically better (I would wear theirs if I couldn't find mine) - their reply was that it was a different market because there were different needs. People in Texas and Florida don't really buy down jackets b/c they need relatively light jackets. But I wear a down jacket down here in south texas during the winter and i'm as warm as a button b/c I know northern coats are WAYY better! They're more expensive because of better material.

Ha! $200 for heat! You're complaining! Try a $600 electric bill in the summer! I swear A/Cs just can't handle texas desert heat! Bills can get exorbanent if you aren't careful....

Ohio's snow tactics aren't too far off from what occurs in Indiana and Illinois. Black ice is something to watch out for in those three states.. Some places prefer other minerals or materials over salt because salt only alters the temperature to a certain point. In other words, at certain temps, salt is ineffective. If you see your local Michigan area using something other than salt, you know it's a darn cold place to be! (or other minerals are cheaper/more effective in that area!)

__________________
Credits Racked Up.....71
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Spring 2009: Managerial Accounting, Business Cal, Statistics