Winter mats for the M was discussed on this board a couple of weeks ago. Anyone buy heavy duty rubber winter mats yet? I ordered a set from Mat4less.com and received them today. Overall the look is ok and fairly heavy with a nice high edge border all around--(the weathertechs mats dont have that high border on the upper part). I am somewhat disappointed in the coverage area though. On the drivers side, the upper left lacks proper coverage and the left side leaves over 2 inches exposed. I also wish they had better gripping nubs on the bottom for better grip--I guess I could cut a slit to slip over the floor hook but I would worry that some salt water would get underneath. Not sure if I will keep them or return to try another brand?
Anyone else here try the mats4less or weathertech mats. I believed someone menthioned another brand with better floor coverage and a higher border? Did you buy that brand? Satisfied?
Took "Beast" down to a site meeting with Hydro One yesterday right on the north shore of Lake Ontario. We were ouside for about 20 minutes.Wind blowing with ice pellets and rain. I was frozen. Jumped into beast and cranked on the seat warmers to" tilt" level. In two minutes I had warm buns and back. I've never had leather seats or seat warmers before but will never be without them again. Today I had to go out again and it was pretty foggy and raining and was on a roadway that I was not familiar with. Came upon a red light real quick in the fog and had to hammer the brakes. I figured that there was no way I would stop but Beast just dug in her claws and stopped me in plenty of time, ( My poor rotors). What surprised me was there was no pull or drift or chatter from the A.B.S. like used to get in my 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix. I was impressed. Dislikes- Really bad visuals from the rear window, rear pillars and small side mirrors when backing up and would like to see lights on the wheel controls and turn signal lever. Other than that I love driving it. I almost start to look for the autopilot button so I can flip it on and read a book or nap in the rear seat during long trips.
I am with you on the non lighted cruise control buttions (something I hope to correct one day soon)(more on this in the next message) and the rear visibility (I have partly corrected with my rear camera). The interior sound levels (read road noise), most of which has been corrected in later models (along with the deadining I added),but could still use more, and we shouldn't forget about the (power robbing) transmission. Other then these the car is excellent and a bargin for the buck.
I saw in a Target Ad some neon string lights. I thought to myself why not install one of these to the stearing wheel to light up the cruise contol buttions. I plan to darken the outward edges, so I do not see the light, but that it just lights up the buttons. I just wish they had it in green instead of purple. The other is power, air-bag or horn? I guess the horn will supply the power, unless I can find another circuit nearby. Time to pull out the service manual again.
I ordered a Nifty Products Catch-All Xtreme 4-Pc Set from www.mats4less.com. Hasn't arrived yet. Is that what you have? Mats4Less sells many different brands of mats for the 300M.
your lights will be on all the time. Actually, I think the horn circuit is just a switched ground to the computer -- not usable as power or ground (the computer can ground the horn relay for the OEM alarm; using it for other things may harm the computer).
And you really don't want to do anything with any part of your airbag...
Michael, you'll really enjoys those seat warmers in the coming months. Living in Vermont you come to appreciate these small things. Also the side mirrors self defrosting is very helpful especially in freezing rain.
Going into my second winter with the bun warmers, I don't know how I ever lived w/o them (the wife gets the garage, so her car isn't as cold) and I know I'll never go without them again
no , I did not order the extreme mats, but the next level, which I think they called premium mats--I didnt like the high edge on the extreme mats--I wonder if maybe they have more coverage than the ones I got from them---they are adequate, but you have to be careful to not put your feet on the area outside of the mats. Let me know how you like the ones you ordered. Anyone order from Weathertech?
I've just recently started reading this board, and am impressed with the ideas and experiences that are shared. Anyway, for the 1st time in my life I bought a used car this week--a '99 candy apple red 'M' w/Chrome wheels and spare, sunroof, and infinity, 49K miles garage kept, extended warranty (till 75k). Anyway, I can't offer any input to the mat discussion, but I was wondering if any of you had experience with any of the major car cover types. According to carcovers.com, Evolution 4 by 3M is pretty good. The best they claim is some other brand that I haven't heard of. Anyway, any input on outdoor car covers (for the days I don't use the M) would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.
also the extreme mats are carpeted--those carpeted mats do not hold up well in the northeast winters---the salt eats right through them---I would imagine Minnesota winter would be tough on those mats as well---those extreme mats look like they can hold the water and dirt, but I dont think they are very attractive---almost like putting your feet into a kitty litter pan---
"The Catch-All Xtreme is manufactured from Xynet, a tough, durable thermoplastic material," and cost a bit less than the Premium "Plush OE nylon carpet" ones. They are both made from the same mold. I'll see how well they fit soon enough. If I could find a kitty litter pan that fits, I'd use that. I hate road salt.
When we rent our M (just before Thanksgiving rented an M for 7 days, extended it to 8) we normally include La Jolla for the boss's shopping & eating at Shelter Island. But curious: in times past in other (expendable vehicles) we occasionally drove to the Tijuana border and took the foot bridge for more shopping. Think it's a good idea to risk an M at one of those border lots? Or should we trolley? Is Julian good for scenery and/or shopping? Heard from bystanders a couple of times "nice car" when getting gas... never heard that with other car rentals. Beautiful comfortable car for long cruises so far.
Happy Birthday, 11000 miles, not any problem so far always use 89 octane gas gas mileage: never better than 23, more related to my driving, around 80 on freeway toppest speed so far: around 135 mph, I saw the needle pass 120 and close to the mileage window Wish the car have more responsive transmission and more quiet.
Thank you for all the posts in here which gives me valuable info, and also all the nice people in here. Although I don't come here often but reviewing here is almost my regular Friday night treat.
SDMike2: sound to me you come to San Jose quite often, when do you think you would drive your big red up here. I can see more and more 300M in Silicon Valley but I haven't seen a burning red yet.
As you all know, after our 300M was demolished from the rear on Oct. 22, we have done nothing but fight with insurance companies. For more than a month now, the 300M has been sitting at a repair shop for over a month, with them just working on it in the last week or two. Finally, the day before Thanksgiving and the 30th day of the claim, we were called and told that we could finally get a rental car after a month and it would be paid for.
Well, to make a long story short, we ended up getting a 2002 Buick LeSabre Custom from Enterprise last Friday. As expected, when we called the body shop this week, they said they expect to have the 300M finished by mid to end of next week. In the guy's words: "Yeah, it looked horrible before, but it's starting to look better." I interpret that to mean, they have at least started to rebuild the entire rear-end. Anyway, in the meantime, 15 minutes after that call, the at-fault insurance claims adjuster called saying that he heard our car would be done soon--gee, I wonder why he waited until last Wednesday to approve a rental car, hmm?
So, my mother has been driving the LeSabre for the past week. As you know, she DOES NOT plan on keeping the 300M very long, for she already has bad dreams and can't sleep when she thinks about driving after it's rebuilt. Simply, we need to start looking for a new car and soon. For some time, she has been on the SUV craze, thinking that's what she wanted and that she's have to lease one. But, by this week, she has figured out that they're ovrpriced and has changed her mind on leasing. What does she want now? A BUICK LESABRE!!!!
For the life of me, I'm trying to think of a way to steer her some other way, but it isn't working too well. Why in the world does she want one of these rental specials? Her thoughts--"It's the quietest smoothest car I'ver ever been in. I like those radio controls on the steering wheel. I like the front bench seat more than buckets and the car is a lot more roomy." Mainly, it's the quiet and smooth thing, that has drawn her in. I told her that the Buick is meant for older folks who like to float down the road and the 300M is more for riding smooth and biting into the corners, a sporty car. The main thing is though, now thay both my mom and dad have driven in the Buick, they both agree that the 300M is way, way too noisy. As my dad says, "The 300M is a good looking car but the noise inside is completely unacceptable. It's not that hard when you design a car to make it at least somewhat quiet." As for mom, "I don't care what you say about the 300M. Compared to this car, it rode like a buckboard and was too loud."
Help! What do I do? I must admit, I enjoy riding in the LeSabre and love how quiet and smooth it is, but it looks way too much like a cross between the Titanic and a walrus, all rolling along on 15" donuts, not to mention those ugly wheels typical for Buick. I know that my mom sometimes likes to or has to drive fast and likes a car that is more in control. But, the quiet is still the most tempting for them. Not to mention the 5* all-around safety ratings of the car. We have to look for a car soon, still not sure what we can get for ours, especially if and when they find out about the $10,000 re-construction. I really don't want them, my mom, 36, and my dad, 41, to be driving a Buick already but it may be unavoidable. Now, if I could only convince them into something else. Any ideas?
Also, just for arguments sake, how much road noise is eliminated with a swap of the badyears for some new Dunlop SP Sport A2's, Yoko's, or Bridestone's? I don't care about the engine noise (which I like), but what is the new level of road noise like compared to say a Buick?
Just picked up my new 2001 Inferno Red, hole in the roof, luxury package and stereo three weeks ago. But to my disappointment no 17" chrome wheels. My dealer did not have one 300M on the lot with chrome wheels. Anyone out there know of a set of four for sale? Great car so far. Got a terrific deal for $24,995 for a new leftover. I haven't heard of anyone getting one that cheap. Had to have a rear spoiler installed to see to backup. Other than that all I need is the wheels.
On your 2001, I am assuming you have the new 10-spoke design. If you want a set of the Chrome Razorstars that came on 99-00 models, try these two sources:
On Ebay, type in "Chrysler 300M", and you should find many different things including wheels. On the last one, enter in the information for 99-00 if you want the Razorstars and 01 if you want the new design chromes. I think it's a little over $600. They send you the new chrome rims and you send back the silver ones.
Ebay tends to have different auctions for chrome razorstars often, sometimes for a really good price. Check it often. There are also other sites, just go to a search engine and enter "chrome wheels".
You have 3 options: 1. changing the tires on a 300m will make it quieter. 2. Taking them to a wrecking yard and showing them some Buick LaSabre's, the more smashed the better. 3. Let them buy the LaSabre, it is their live anyway. I know, it hurts.
I was just kidding about the air bag circuit. I would NEVER mess around with it. It is one of the taboo circuits in the vehicle. I do hope to check out the cruise control and horn circuits more. If not there are always fiber optics.
I'm thinking about adding an Infinity Basslink sub to my 300. I finally found an audio shop which had one I could listen to and compare the same music (mostly jazz) with & without the Basslink. It's a MAJOR improvement in the lower octives. I know several fellow Club members have had Basslinks for a while. Are you all still happy with them? Any info regarding ease (time) of installation & optimal positioning & tuning adjustments would be appreciated.
i am selling a set of 17" chrome razorstars with tires. they came off my 99. i have 20's on the car, so i dont need the wheels anymore. they have 10k miles on them and are in great condition. i'm looking to get $1000.00 for the rims with the tires. im in az.
IMHO as much as I love the 300M, and that I want to get one, the Buick LeSabre does have its good points. Prior to the 300M I used to rent those from Avis. They're excellent freeway cruisers, are enviously quiet, are very comfortable, very ccnvenient steering wheel controls, at the top as far as safety for cars, are a bit cheaper than the 300M... the only reason I wouldn't get one (I'm in your parents' age group too) is because it is such a plain, boring looking car inside and out. I also looked at the IIHS loss data some months back on numerous cars like the LeSabre, the Accord, and the 300M: injury losses were far less in the LeSabre & the 300M, theft losses were almost nonexistent for the LeSabre while they were about double the average car for the 300M. Bottom line to me is that while I'm opting for the 300M because of the beauty & fun of the car IMHO your parents will be happy w/the LeSabre.
I got mine on an eBay auction for $225. I knew there was a remote level control available to install under the dash, but when I tried to order one I was informed that there are two models of the BassLink-one upgradeable; one not upgradeable. Mine was not. So I am restricted to using the stock head unit bass slider, certainly not the best way to make ad hoc changes. The level, inflection point and boost controls on the unit itself are quite effective and have a large range of adjustment. I have had no problems with the unit (installed 6 months ago). Mine is located close to side wall of the passenger side of the trunk, firing across the trunk and slightly to the rear. This maximizes available trunk space and sounds great. It also places the unit in close proximity to the Infinity amp in the right rear behind the trunk liner.
Sound like a case of an offspring who is passionate about cars versus parents who aren't.
Since they're paying for it it's their call on what to buy, unfortunate for you.
I'm in their age bracket and personally would never consider any Buick. They're a bland, "old farts" car for people who don't "enjoy" driving. The Buick buyer demographics back this view up.
But I also have to admit that the 300M is not as refined in the NVH area as it could or should be for the class it sells in. Shame on Chrysler for that. I honestly don't expect to see any major improvement there until the 300N comes out in 2004, when it switches to the Mercedes E class RWD platform.
Different tires might help the 300M, but not signficantly. The problem is fundamental to the unit body suspense mounting points and stiffness of the isolators used on the suspension pieces. If you soften them up, you'll cut the noise. But it will be at the expense of the handling. They need to substandially stiffen the suspension mount points and re-tune the body. But that will cost way too much for a car that will be retired at the end of the next model year.
Just a odd suggestion, you might try to convince them to look at an Acura TL sedan. They handle well, ride quietly (VERY), and are in the same price class and general size as the 300M. At least it wouldn't be an "old farts" car.
Thank guys! The last post summed it up fairly well. My mom could care less abotu what it is she's driving, as long as it looks nice, drives well, and doesn't make any strange noises (i.e., rattles and the like). My dad however, is a big fan of old cars, having a 79' GMC van and a 69' Chevelle Malibu. I subscribe to about every car magazine there is and am a big fan and very active on Edmund's Townhall. I love cars! By the way, I am 15, and will start driving with a permit in February.
Yes, it's their money, but they do turn to me for a lot when they buy a car, and I try to help in any way I can. Matter of fact, it was because of me that we got a 300M in the first place. When my mother saw a picture of one in 98', she loved it. Then, after my dad got the Chevelle in July 00', she decided she wanted a new car too. I encouraged her to get a 300M after hearing such great stuff from all of you on this board. It worked. We looked at 2 different ones, and bought one the next day. Really, they're not dead set on a LeSabre but are thinking about it a lot but there are many other cars that are possibilities. Matter of fact, we're going to go looking tomorrow when the dealers are closed because she doesn't want them to wonder why we came in a rental car. Most likely, we may have something new in the next 1-2 weeks.
Our biggest problem now is what the 300M will be like. She already plans on taking it to dealers at night to hide any paint mismatches or other visible repair signs. I can only imagine who much we'll get for it, hopefully enough to pay it off and have a little down payment.
Well, once again, thanks guys. I'll miss not being a part of the 300M family, but maybe someday we'll be back. Hey, maybe she'll like the new 300N in 2004!
I still love mine. When I rent cars when I'm on the road that's what I miss the most, I think. There are detailed instructions for setting the controls included with the Basslink. You can control the gain, the level, and the crossover. Follow the instructions and fine tune the settings to taste with your bass slider in the center position. Then you can increase and decrease the bass as you need with only the slider. Works great in my opinion. Also, I had a shop install it for me. Apparently it's an interesting task to get through the firewall, and I didn't want to fight with the wiring and mounting. Cost me $75. Oh! One important thing. The basslink will shut off automatically after a minute or so if it's not getting a signal (e.g. you turn off the stereo or car), even if it's hot wired to the battery. The shop that installed mine charged me an extra $20 for an in-line switch because they thought that the unit wasn't shutting off by itself. Neither of us knew of the delay! DOH! Here are a couple of pictures of where I put mine. If I had to do it again, I'd probably turn the unit sideways to it didn't restrict my passthrough space as much.
Welcome to the board! I agree, I don't see many Ms in San Jose...mostly Bimmers and MB's still. heh. I won't be driving Big Red up there because I'm being let go from my job later this month, and I won't be travelling up there anymore.
I ran into same situation. I was at dealers lot he had one hold over 300M in white. He was offering it over $6,200.00 off sticker price. He said Chrysler was giving $6,000.00 dealer cash to move leftover 2001's. The funny thing is he took the chrome off of that one also. They did mark it down an extra $750.00, noting "removed chrome wheels". I guess they figured no one would care since they are knocking $6,000.00 off to begin with (not there loss mind ya). Then they turn around and profit on the wheels some how( maybe sweeten a high priced deal). Anyway I was gonna get. It drove GREAT in every way. I just felt it a little big for me, and wasn't sure of long term reliabilty. I went and bought a Maxima GLE. But as you may have noticed the "300M" group is a great bunch!
Hi folks. Rather than re-read some 11,000+ posts, I thought I'd ask for general opinions on the 300M. Based on the activity at this site, people are definitely passionate about the car.
I'm looking to lease a car by Spring next year. I presently have a '00 Olds Intrigue, which has been a great car, but will be discontinued after this model year. To preserve as much value as possible, I'm thinking I should move it now (or within the next 3-6 months) rather than hold on to it for another year or two. I usually replace my cars every 3-1/2 to 4 years, which has me thinking about a lease. In addition to the 300, I'm looking at the Acura TL, Volvo S60 and Pontiac Bonneville -- your basic mix of domestic and import near luxury sedans.
Are there any strong opinions out there opposed to the 300M based on past ownership experience or have most of you been happy with your experience? All comments appreciated.
With few exceptions I think everyone here would buy their 300M all over again. I personally believe it's a great combination of looks, performance, luxury and price that I didn't find in any other car. Many of us have made modifications to our cars that personalize them even more. I considered many of the cars you've listed plus many you didn't, and all in all I'm very very happy with my decision to buy "Big Red"
I drove a Bonnervile for two months (1998) and it was a nice car with a comfy ride, squishy around the corners,soft over the bumps etc.. If your over 65 it would be a great car for you. If you really want to go G.M I would suggest the Grand Prix. A lot more sportier and better handling. That was my last car and I really enjoyed driving it. As for the Accura TL my buddy has had a 2002 for the past three months in which I have ridden in several times and it is a great car. Handles well, good acceleration and well built BUT when you compare it to the looks of a 300M the Accura has the sex appeal of a turnip. It just doesn't turn heads like the M does. As for the Volvo I've had no experience. I'm sure any of the three cars would serve you well but as you may have noticed That on this board we are slightly biased in favour ot the M.
Oh, I'm fully aware of the depreciation on my Intrigue thanks to GM's decision to give it the axe. Add to that the current discounting/special financing arrangements and I'm not expecting a big return. I figure it is better to move it before the last one rolls off the assembly line though (unless the Intrigue is going to be a collector's car some day). Come to think of it, maybe I will just hold onto it for the next 20 years. All kidding aside, with Oldsmobile going the way of the dinosaurs, I assume I've either got to hold onto the Intrigue for life or take the hit on its depreciation. I'm not planning on getting much leverage out of it into my next car.
It's good to see the high level of interest in the 300M at this site. It definitely has a good combination of looks and refinement within its price range (but you folks already know that). I test drove one today and was definitely impressed.
be sure to tell them about the new warranty with the 300M--7 years---also see if you can get them to test drive the Special---you never know---they may like the subtle improvements to the car--see if you can find some reviews on the LeSabre that are negatively biased---also let them read this board for opinions of 300M owners---this is one of the top forums of Edmunds due to enthusiastic owners who love their M's---and I bet there is no owners club for the LeSabre--but we have one of the best: http://www.300mclub.org/
Thanks for the comments on the chrome wheels dabronxr. The only choice I had from the dealer was to purchase a set from the factory for $2000. I found that totally unacceptable when the dealer sells them when they come on a new car from the factory for a $750 option. My dealer wouldn't come down at all. How does everyone feel about the $24,995 price I paid for a new 2001 leftover, Inferno Red, hole in the roof, luxury group and stereo? I haven't seen one cheaper. So far the car has been great. After shopping around it turned out to be the best value for style, luxury and hopefully realibility.
I can't speak about US prices, but I have a problem with your dealer, removing factory installed equipment and then re-selling it for a higher price. It may be legal but is it ethical, and I wonder what DC has to say about it. I personnally would not deal with this dealer and I might suggest that you take it somewhere else for service or you might become a victim again of unethical practices. Just my opinion!!!!!!!!!
When you get new car with dealer add-ons they put dealer add-on sticker next to manufacturer sticker. When I saw the 300M I spoke of previously, I noticed the dealer add-on sticker. At first glance I assumed it was dealer add-ons. When I went back for 2nd look it was for chrome wheel removal and credit for $750.00. The dealer was up front about it. If you bought vehicle and it was not brought to your attention in any way, I would say that is fraud. You went there with invoice price in mind, so even though you did get A VERY GOOD DEAL, you still did not get what you thought you were getting.
I sat in an Acura 3.2TL. They are the most uncortable seats I have ever sat in. I have several friends with Acuras and they complain about the seats.
I think the seats in the 300M are quite good, almost as good as those in a Volvo. I agree that the Acura is quieter than the 300M by a slight margin. All in all I think the two cars are comparable.
I have the stock single CD player and cassette deck in my 300M. Is there an after market product that will give more in dash CD capability.? The dealer will sell me a 3 disc in dash unit for $650.00 American. The new 300Ms come with a 4 disc unit which the dealer says will not fit in the 1999s. Any ideas? By the way I have the upgraded stereo with 11 speakers. Thanks
if you current radio has the cd controls built into it and has the DIN plug(round plug) on the back of the radio the 4 disk unit form the 00-01 M will indeed work . All you have to do is take ut that plastic storage bin under the radio and place the changer into this hole. A very easy job. A couple of screws ,route the cable to the back of the radio and thats it.But you have to have the radio that has CD-C (CD controls ) on it or it wont work.
no1 - Julian is a great place to drive the M ... lots of twisties. As far as shopping it's only good if you like crafty, rustic stuff. But a nice place to visit -- has a New England type atmosphere. Not sure about the parking lots outside of TJ as I have never parked there. As SDMike says trolly might be the best bet. But if it's a rental and you have adequate insurance...why worry. One word of caution though....since 9/11 crossing back over the border can take hours due to heightened security. Might not be worth any shopping bargains.
300M has very comfortable seats, but the TL-S seats are sportier. And CL-S seats are even sportier with bigger bolsters and they really hold you well.
Basically TL-S is a VERY nice car. Definitely much quieter than 300M.
It does not have auto headlights, does not have individual reading lights for the rear passengers, rear seats don't fold, and the trunk has gooseneck hinges. And so far I am not impressed with the acceleration at high speeds - no match for the blast that it produces at lower speeds.
my 300M was the opposite. Once it got passed 6,000 miles, it really showed off its great power. It still was not a blast from 0, but still fun. But at high speeds it produced a firm and steady acceleration while staying smooth. Acura's chassis is shorter and more narrow, I can feel more shaking.
Comments
The guy had to place ads on the site a few months ago in order to support the site. Maybe that did not help...
Anyone else here try the mats4less or weathertech mats. I believed someone menthioned another brand with better floor coverage and a higher border? Did you buy that brand? Satisfied?
Easyrider300M
warm buns and back. I've never had leather seats or seat warmers before but will never be without them again.
Today I had to go out again and it was pretty foggy and raining and was on a roadway that I was not familiar with. Came upon a red light real quick in the fog and had to hammer the brakes. I figured that there was no way I would stop but Beast just dug in her claws and stopped me in plenty of time, ( My poor rotors). What surprised me was there was no pull or drift or chatter from the A.B.S. like used to get in my 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix. I was impressed.
Dislikes- Really bad visuals from the rear window, rear pillars and small side mirrors when backing up and would like to see lights on the wheel controls and turn signal lever.
Other than that I love driving it. I almost start to look for the autopilot button so I can flip it on and read a book or nap in the rear seat during long trips.
And you really don't want to do anything with any part of your airbag...
http://store.yahoo.com/floormats4less/nifprodcatpr75.html
http://store.yahoo.com/floormats4less/nifprodcatxt216.html
300michael - NEVER NEVER cut or tap into the airbag power or ground wires.
11000 miles,
not any problem so far
always use 89 octane gas
gas mileage: never better than 23, more related to my driving, around 80 on freeway
toppest speed so far: around 135 mph, I saw the needle pass 120 and close to the mileage window
Wish the car have more responsive transmission and more quiet.
Thank you for all the posts in here which gives me valuable info, and also all the nice people in here. Although I don't come here often but reviewing here is almost my regular Friday night treat.
SDMike2: sound to me you come to San Jose quite often, when do you think you would drive your big red up here. I can see more and more 300M in Silicon Valley but I haven't seen a burning red yet.
Yet a proud 300M owner!
Well, to make a long story short, we ended up getting a 2002 Buick LeSabre Custom from Enterprise last Friday. As expected, when we called the body shop this week, they said they expect to have the 300M finished by mid to end of next week. In the guy's words: "Yeah, it looked horrible before, but it's starting to look better." I interpret that to mean, they have at least started to rebuild the entire rear-end. Anyway, in the meantime, 15 minutes after that call, the at-fault insurance claims adjuster called saying that he heard our car would be done soon--gee, I wonder why he waited until last Wednesday to approve a rental car, hmm?
So, my mother has been driving the LeSabre for the past week. As you know, she DOES NOT plan on keeping the 300M very long, for she already has bad dreams and can't sleep when she thinks about driving after it's rebuilt. Simply, we need to start looking for a new car and soon. For some time, she has been on the SUV craze, thinking that's what she wanted and that she's have to lease one. But, by this week, she has figured out that they're ovrpriced and has changed her mind on leasing. What does she want now? A BUICK LESABRE!!!!
For the life of me, I'm trying to think of a way to steer her some other way, but it isn't working too well. Why in the world does she want one of these rental specials? Her thoughts--"It's the quietest smoothest car I'ver ever been in. I like those radio controls on the steering wheel. I like the front bench seat more than buckets and the car is a lot more roomy." Mainly, it's the quiet and smooth thing, that has drawn her in. I told her that the Buick is meant for older folks who like to float down the road and the 300M is more for riding smooth and biting into the corners, a sporty car. The main thing is though, now thay both my mom and dad have driven in the Buick, they both agree that the 300M is way, way too noisy. As my dad says, "The 300M is a good looking car but the noise inside is completely unacceptable. It's not that hard when you design a car to make it at least somewhat quiet." As for mom, "I don't care what you say about the 300M. Compared to this car, it rode like a buckboard and was too loud."
Help! What do I do? I must admit, I enjoy riding in the LeSabre and love how quiet and smooth it is, but it looks way too much like a cross between the Titanic and a walrus, all rolling along on 15" donuts, not to mention those ugly wheels typical for Buick. I know that my mom sometimes likes to or has to drive fast and likes a car that is more in control. But, the quiet is still the most tempting for them. Not to mention the 5* all-around safety ratings of the car. We have to look for a car soon, still not sure what we can get for ours, especially if and when they find out about the $10,000 re-construction. I really don't want them, my mom, 36, and my dad, 41, to be driving a Buick already but it may be unavoidable. Now, if I could only convince them into something else. Any ideas?
Also, just for arguments sake, how much road noise is eliminated with a swap of the badyears for some new Dunlop SP Sport A2's, Yoko's, or Bridestone's? I don't care about the engine noise (which I like), but what is the new level of road noise like compared to say a Buick?
P.S., I swear, this whole Buick thing is true!
http://www.ebay.com
or
http://www.4chromewheels.com
On Ebay, type in "Chrysler 300M", and you should find many different things including wheels. On the last one, enter in the information for 99-00 if you want the Razorstars and 01 if you want the new design chromes. I think it's a little over $600. They send you the new chrome rims and you send back the silver ones.
Ebay tends to have different auctions for chrome razorstars often, sometimes for a really good price. Check it often. There are also other sites, just go to a search engine and enter "chrome wheels".
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/aw-cgi/ebayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=598660211&r=0&t=0
Worth looking into. I already have those, so not interested. But I was looking for some other stuff. Thought there might be interest.
Where do you work in the factory? What is your job function there?
1. changing the tires on a 300m will make it quieter.
2. Taking them to a wrecking yard and showing them some Buick LaSabre's, the more smashed the better.
3. Let them buy the LaSabre, it is their live anyway. I know, it hurts.
Jon
let me know if you're interested.
tom
(dubson300m@yahoo.com)
(phtrde1@aol.com)
Good luck,
Silver
Silver
Sound like a case of an offspring who is passionate about cars versus parents who aren't.
Since they're paying for it it's their call on what to buy, unfortunate for you.
I'm in their age bracket and personally would never consider any Buick. They're a bland, "old farts" car for people who don't "enjoy" driving. The Buick buyer demographics back this view up.
But I also have to admit that the 300M is not as refined in the NVH area as it could or should be for the class it sells in. Shame on Chrysler for that. I honestly don't expect to see any major improvement there until the 300N comes out in 2004, when it switches to the Mercedes E class RWD platform.
Different tires might help the 300M, but not signficantly. The problem is fundamental to the unit body suspense mounting points and stiffness of the isolators used on the suspension pieces. If you soften them up, you'll cut the noise. But it will be at the expense of the handling. They need to substandially stiffen the suspension mount points and re-tune the body. But that will cost way too much for a car that will be retired at the end of the next model year.
Just a odd suggestion, you might try to convince them to look at an Acura TL sedan. They handle well, ride quietly (VERY), and are in the same price class and general size as the 300M. At least it wouldn't be an "old farts" car.
TS
Yes, it's their money, but they do turn to me for a lot when they buy a car, and I try to help in any way I can. Matter of fact, it was because of me that we got a 300M in the first place. When my mother saw a picture of one in 98', she loved it. Then, after my dad got the Chevelle in July 00', she decided she wanted a new car too. I encouraged her to get a 300M after hearing such great stuff from all of you on this board. It worked. We looked at 2 different ones, and bought one the next day. Really, they're not dead set on a LeSabre but are thinking about it a lot but there are many other cars that are possibilities. Matter of fact, we're going to go looking tomorrow when the dealers are closed because she doesn't want them to wonder why we came in a rental car. Most likely, we may have something new in the next 1-2 weeks.
Our biggest problem now is what the 300M will be like. She already plans on taking it to dealers at night to hide any paint mismatches or other visible repair signs. I can only imagine who much we'll get for it, hopefully enough to pay it off and have a little down payment.
Well, once again, thanks guys. I'll miss not being a part of the 300M family, but maybe someday we'll be back. Hey, maybe she'll like the new 300N in 2004!
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/aw-cgi/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=598531376
http://albums.photopoint.com/j/AlbumIndex?u=1620463&a=13418625&f=0
And yes, my trunk is still that clean. lol
I'm looking to lease a car by Spring next year. I presently have a '00 Olds Intrigue, which has been a great car, but will be discontinued after this model year. To preserve as much value as possible, I'm thinking I should move it now (or within the next 3-6 months) rather than hold on to it for another year or two. I usually replace my cars every 3-1/2 to 4 years, which has me thinking about a lease. In addition to the 300, I'm looking at the Acura TL, Volvo S60 and Pontiac Bonneville -- your basic mix of domestic and import near luxury sedans.
Are there any strong opinions out there opposed to the 300M based on past ownership experience or have most of you been happy with your experience? All comments appreciated.
dwg
Big Red's Page
As for preserving the value of the Olds:
I hope you are not surprised at the difficulty you may have selling or trading a used car in this time of 0% financing and other incentives.
Just my $.02
That was my last car and I really enjoyed driving it. As for the Accura TL my buddy has had a 2002 for the past three months in which I have ridden in several times and it is a great car. Handles well, good acceleration and well built BUT when you compare it to the looks of a 300M the Accura has the sex appeal of a turnip. It just doesn't turn heads like the M does. As for the Volvo I've had no experience. I'm sure any of the three cars would serve you well but as you may have noticed That on this board we are slightly biased in favour ot the M.
It's good to see the high level of interest in the 300M at this site. It definitely has a good combination of looks and refinement within its price range (but you folks already know that). I test drove one today and was definitely impressed.
I think the seats in the 300M are quite good, almost as good as those in a Volvo. I agree that the Acura is quieter than the 300M by a slight margin. All in all I think the two cars are comparable.
"I sat in an Acura 3.2TL. They are the most uncortable seats I have ever sat in."
I don't know if the TL seats are different than the CL-S seats, but there is NO comparison! Sit in them again! The CL-S seats just HOLD you in!
"I agree that the Acura is quieter than the 300M by a slight margin. All in all I think the two cars are comparable."
SLIGHT margin? I think you better go drive one for yourself. There is no comparison.
fastdriver
Not sure about the parking lots outside of TJ as I have never parked there. As SDMike says trolly might be the best bet. But if it's a rental and you have adequate insurance...why worry. One word of caution though....since 9/11 crossing back over the border can take hours due to heightened security. Might not be worth any shopping bargains.
Basically TL-S is a VERY nice car. Definitely much quieter than 300M.
It does not have auto headlights, does not have individual reading lights for the rear passengers, rear seats don't fold, and the trunk has gooseneck hinges. And so far I am not impressed with the acceleration at high speeds - no match for the blast that it produces at lower speeds.
my 300M was the opposite. Once it got passed 6,000 miles, it really showed off its great power. It still was not a blast from 0, but still fun. But at high speeds it produced a firm and steady acceleration while staying smooth. Acura's chassis is shorter and more narrow, I can feel more shaking.