Do not despair. You have gotten some GREAT info from these folks. If you're at about 100K in mileage the PNP switch is just about right to go bad and does the blinking between E-S-W and then the arrow on the dash. The repair is about $350 to $400 at the dealer. These cars are notorious for the thermostat (and the PNP switch) to go near the 100K mile. The thermostat repair is cheap and it sounds like it will take care of the plugs and mpg. If not the OBD should point you somewhere else like an O2 sensor. No, the tires don't go at 3K miles. Have it checked by a reputable front alignment house and they'll tell you immediately what's going on. Obviously something in the front end has the BOTH tires leaning on the outside edges. I can't imagine you'll find it's a difficult fix. I doubt seriously it's the steering rack. Once you get these taken care of I am sure you will find the car an enjoyment to drive.