I've been around here since the early days and achieved nearly 10,000 posts. If I didn't value the site then I wouldn't have come this far.
So - yes, there are lots of good things about this forum. The amount of combined knowledge we provide is possibly unbeatable, so for the purpose of maintaining cars, the forum does it's job in an absolutely sterling way.
Also on the positive side, I have met a number of really firm friends here, which in itself has made joining up worthwhile.
So - on the balance of things, the good definately outweighs the bad, here.
On the flipside... I have seen it said a few times, by different people, that this forum is cliquey - including one member who quickly removed their account shortly after joining for this reason - so I think it's worth at least remaining mindful that some people hold this view, and take some personal responsibility to try our best to ensure we don't come across in this way.
I am learning the (somewhat difficult) lesson that it's not always possible to please everyone, and sometimes people will have different views than you. In these situations, it's important not to take it too personally.
On every forum, without exception, there will be people who are very quick to pick out flaws in things you say, and potentially flame you or antagonise you with it - in which case it's usually best just to let them get on with it and not give them the desired reactions.
I've been on a few forums, not all car related - and I've seen a LOT more trolls on them all, compared to OOF!
I think bottom line is, although this site is a great resource and a great community, things said ARE only on a website, usually by people you don't see very often, so aren't worth worrying about too much
