Yukonart

Well, that and he's got a manual transmission. . . . some downshifting now and again does a lot to preserve brakepad life. (Not that it's a substitute for braking)

A lot of how much of the sidewall gets used depends on a couple things: 1. How low the profile of the tire is 2. How much running tire pressure is present. I have 235/40-18s on my car, and at around 38psi the sidewalls don't flex enough to be used in cornering. . . even in autocross. For the shine, I use Meguire's gel . . . it goes on clean with an applicator (none on treads) and stays on through a few washings or a couple weeks of intermittent showers. From what I've gathered, it's one of the safer ones to use, too. Hell, I go through tires fast enough as it is, though. . . worrying about sidewall welfare isn't something I trouble myself with. . . .more like treadwear from the mileage I rack-up and the abuse I dish-out at the track every few weeks.

Thule load bars with the attachment kit for the WRX wagons. I use this setup for my sedan with the 206 fit kit (which you won't need) and it's great! From there, you can attach any of their racks, baskets, etc.

Does the clutch on the compressor engage when you push the buttion? (Does the engine lag a bit?) If not, then your clutch solenoid might be fried. Might also check the fuse to make sure it's not burned-out. (Doesn't sound like that's it since it worked intermittently for a while)

Dunno about the #1 gay and lesbian car. . . but the Outback certainly is the most usual visitor of REI. More often than not, the Outback is the one car I see in that parking lot more than any other.

Not an expert on AT coolers, but as for the gauge sender. . . is it possible it's going bad? (ie, less-than-great quality)