Yep, sprung for both the luxury group and PHG. In fact, this car has every single option available on the M. More than I wanted initially, but after listening to you guys I couldn't decide what to leave out!
I'm not sure what you guys are getting. When I post the links I get my edit pages, not what looks like a public album. I resized the photos to be clearer at normal view, but I'm not sure what everyone is seeing. Let me know if I'm posting the wrong. Thanks.
You believe that I didn't even notice that it didn't have a chrome insert??? Holy moley. I'm going to ask them about it because I think it looks great. I looked at so many cars and they all had it so I guess I stopped paying attention! Time to go to www.zainobros.com.
All, I have some streaky, filmy marks on the outside of my windshield and on my roof pillars. Makes them look dirty/streaky. Windex doesn't remove them. Any idea what I'm talking about and, any ideas what I can use to remove them?
Also, I'm about to place an order with Zaino. I know I want the Z-1, Z-2 and Z-10 (leather treatment) but I'm unsure on other stuff. I read that the Z-10 is also great for the dash so I won't need anything specifically for that. Any of you use the Z-6? Worth the $10?
I bought my 300M on 5/19/99. I have 27704 miles on it.
I have used 1,266.88 gallons of fuel for an average of 22.15 mpg (total cost: $1,872.61 or 1.478 per gallon, mid-grade)
I have spent $1,540.62 on "service" items. This includes oil changes, tranny service, car washes, a replacement K&N filter (with cleaner) and (most of all) a new set of tires.
My insurance cost me $2,165.70 and lasts through May.
Things I call "ownership" costs include principal, interest, license plates, and modifications (window tint, wheels). These costs total $13,016.37.
Total "operational" costs (fuel, service): $3413.23 or 12.3 cents per mile. Total costs: $23,262.60 or 84.0 cents per mile.
Your mileage may vary. [Insurance will vary on coverage and location. Principal and interest will depend on your loan/lease/etc. Your service will in all likelihood be less because you won't have been dumb enough to put $1,100 worth of tires on the car (twice!).]
First, congratulations on your new baby. We all knew if you hung around us long enough that you'd get addicted and just have to have one. Now just look what you've gone and done.
Photopoint: when you access the site from the PC where you set up the account, you'll always get the edit view.
Chrome shifter: don't know exactly when, but they stopped installing them as a cost savings. LOL, How much can a chrome insert cost?? Talk your dealer into a swap with one on the lot. It's held by a small socket head setscrew on the front side, 5 minute job to swap out. I installed one on my 2K 300M.
Zaino: Get the Z5 too, it's a direct substitute for Z2 but is great for small scratches and swirl marks. The Z6 is worth the extra bucks. Makes it slicker than a baby's butt.
300M Enthusiasts Club: check us out at http://www.300mclub.org. Get your dealer to sign up in our discount program and save 10% on all your parts and service. Thats a great return on a $10 investment. Also watch the site for an important announcement that will be great for all us West Coast M owners. Oops, I've already said too much!!
Enjoy your new ride. She's a head turner fer shur.
Roger Waters, President Chrysler 300M Enthusiasts Club
I decided to put the full sized photos up so I deleted the old album. I assumed that with the same user name and album name the link would be the same. WRONG!
So if I get the Z-5 I don't need the Z-2? Sounds like Z-1, Z-5 and Z-6 are the answer (plus the leather conditioner). Did you use the Z-10 on the plastic dash or did you use something else? I have a couple of pretty bad silver dollar sized swirl marks that might need professional help. Thank god I got the dealer to put in writing "small scratches to be fixed by dealer" in writing before I drove off the lot. I didn't see any, but now that I do I'm pretty glad I did that.
Any ideas on my discoloration of the roof pillars? It almosts looks like oily water spots...but I can't seem to get them off using standard methods. If you don't know what the heck I'm talking about I can take a picture of it.
Ok, I am officially jealous...I was supposed to go car shopping today to tet drive my finalists (300M, I30t and new Passat GLX), but plans change...and now that I'm free, NCAA hoops. Hopefully tomorrow.
Anyways, congrats on your red rocket. I cruise down to SD at least once a week on biz so I'll look for you on the highway! I'll be the one in the 1991 G20 that you are passing!
Way to go...the commit is sometimes difficult, but hopefully no regrets.
I use both the Z2 and Z5. Normally use Z2 but hit it with Z5 every third time or so. I use Z10 on the dash and seats. It leaves a nice satin finish, and keeps that new car smell thing going. The Z16 tire gloss is excellent also.
On the roof pillars, are you talking about the gloss black plastic?? Zaino is good for just about anything on the car except the grainy black plastic trim, and I don't think the 2001 has any of that, unless below the wipers.
Don't wanna scare you, but be very careful what you authorize the dealer to "touch up." One of our posters, "intrepidspirit" had an awful battle with the dealer after starting out with some minor touchups. They finally repainted almost the whole car over a 2 week period before they finally got everything to match. I'd try the Zaino Z5 several times on the swirl marks and see if that fixes them first.
Things are fine. The Type-S is treating me well. I bought it in October and due to scheduling and weather I have not had a chance to ZAino it or anything. One way or another though, a car finds a way to beat you up. You're well aware of my M story. Well the Type-S seems to be a damage magnet recently. Chip in the windshield, Chip in the hood, and today a car in front on me drop it's tailpipe right in my path. I couldn't avoid it. It hit the underside pretty good. I have to crawl under there and check things out. 10 Months with the M and only 2 instances. Both done by the folks at my 5*. UGH!
Congrates on the 300M. Be carful with the Zaino, It will make the car look like you always have your brake lights on:)
Dealer told me that the tires I wanted or on back order (could be up to 4 more weeks) I have been waiting 3 weeks already. Discount Tire said they would beat any offer I could find 18" Zennetti Vega's and 275/40 S0-2 Pole Positions, for $2400. I may have to keep my 17" and go with 255/50 Bridgestone 730's or BfGoodrich G-force.
Today my eccentric y2k slate/agate M seemed to really be acting up. The constant rattle behind the guages is back and is just as bad as before. The rest of the car is starting to make the same if not more creaks and buzzes over bumps and everything has become even noisier. On a highway with fresh pavement, the badyears were howling away and drowning out the stereo that was already cranked up. The engine was even more gruff and nasty sounding. Worse yet, I feel vibrations all over as I try to cruise down the road. Overall, everything on the car seems to have really loosened up and it doesn't like having to be driven very much. All this and only 6,700 miles! What a great car, huh? I still haven't had the lousy tires rotated because I'm constantly busy. Just last week everything was looking good and I thought that the car was getting back to the great set of wheels it originally was. Well, who knows?
Thanks. I like the looks of this model the best. Can't wait to put on the Zaino.
Evandermel-
I forgot that you got a CL Type-S too! I can't get enough of this car. I have over 600 miles already since Wednesday. Was out all afternoon driving. Not sure which CL group to go to here in TH. Don't want the ones that compare this to that. Just want one as nice, friendly and helpful as this 300 group!
laurasdada-
Thanks. If you don't need the backseat room or 4 doors, then go drive one of these Type S's. It must be time for a visit to Mohegan Sun. I remember when I got Christine, I said to the guy that I wanted VIP parking because I just got this car and didn't want any nicks or scratches yet! Not sure if I want anyone to drive this one yet! ;-))
bigmike5-
They just came out with a 2002 TL(?) Type-S that is $1,000 more then the CL. It has 4 doors. To me, those models, TL and RL or whatever they're called, all look blah. The CL has SOME character! I don't think the CL is Buickized at all. You asked about the tires. This is what they say- Michelin Pilots P215/50 R17 93V HXMXM4. Not sure if it's the tires that are quiet or the insulation on the car?
dustinnewton-
I never even inquired about what the Nav system would cost on the lease per month. I don't really know why because I love gadgets and computers. For some reason, I figured I couldn't drive, shift, smoke, use the cell phone and drink my Dunkin Donuts coffee all at the same time! LOL.... I did get Lojack for only $2.00 more a month though and will save 15% on my comprehensive insurance.
sdmike2-
GREAT PICS!! My favorite color! LOL.. Drive it in good health. Wait until you get the Zaino on it! WOW!! It is a headturner for sure in that color.
lalarry & sleepymw-
I can't leave this group! I was one of the original members back in June of 98. There's too many good people here to abandon just because Christine is gone! Besides, someone might end up buying Christine and then find this group and need help! LOL... I still have her VIN! I could be a big help- no?
Tag2000-
Isn't this a coincidence? I had NO intention of getting this car. I went with a friend to look at used CL's. While he was talking to the saleslady, I went to see a salesman to get some lease figures for the CL Type-S. Why? I have NO clue. I didn't even know what options there were on this car. I just knew that when I saw the car in person I liked it a lot. When he asked if I wanted to drive one I said great! That was it. I bought the car in RI though and not from this dealer. My brother knew someone who worked at the BMW section of this dealership in RI. So, I went there and had him introduce me to the Acura people. The next thing you know, I was signing papers! That was a week ago today and now she's in my driveway. Can't wait to go out tonight so I can drive again! Good thing I opted for the 15,000 miles again! LOL... This car just might have the max miles because of the 4 year, 50,000 mile warranty! Christine only had 35,432 miles or so on her. All I knew was that she was not going to be registered in MY name when she hit 36,000! My "5-STAR" dealers were less then accomodating when the car was in warranty. WHAT chance would I ever have of them helping me if something broke between now and June with NO warranty? I was not willing to take that chance especially with the sloppiness of the transmission shifting. I could have remedied that by pulling the TCM fuse again I guess. I'm just happy she's gone.
Sorry for the long post, but I just had to respond to everyone who commented about my new ride. At least now you won't have to listen to anymore stories about Christine! LOL.... I hope she does not reappear here with a new owner! Her last resting place was the Chrysler dealer in Newport, RI. WHERE she goes from there is anyone's guess!
Thanks for the heads up on the scratches. I'll certainly try Z-5 before I start letting the dealer mess with it. As for the other question, yes, by roof pillars I mean the black plastic columns between the front and back doors. I have discovered I have a similar problem with the windshield. Not as bad as water spots, but there is certainly something that looks oil-based "staining" the glass. I have tried windex and some other window cleaners, and even hit it with RainX cleaner and finisher. No change. It's the same stuff that seems to be discoloring the roof pillars. Maybe I'll drive down to the 5* on Monday and show their detail person and see if they know. It's SO hard to explain very well.
Other than that, I'm in love. I put about 100 miles on her today running errands and every moment was a joy. I went to the 5* to pick up my sunglasses and garage remote that I forgot, and all the sales guys were staring at her. By far the nicest car on the lot. I felt great when I put my glasses on and slowly pulled out of the lot. My wife got in it for the first time today and I was pretty sure I wasn't going to get her out of it. She never has much interest in cars, but she said this was far nicer than she expected. Dropped off some things at my friend's house, and his first words were "at least you picked a nice subtle color". LOL
..for the kind words about the new car. YOU MADE ME DO THIS! lol! Oh, by the way, the upgraded stereo is significantly better than the stock one (if anyone has the same question that I had earlier). My changer skipped about 5 times in the first 10 seconds of the first song and I was thinking "here is the CDR problem". Never did it again.
..and it looks great. Congratulations sdmike! If you're like myself, ten months and 17,000 miles later, you'll still feel pretty much the way you do now whenever you get into your 300M! Enjoy, and watch for me and my Deep Sapphire Blue 'DVYNE M' in and around San Diego from time to time!
got to get the Z-6 after the initial application of Z-1, Z-5, and Z-2 the Z-6 is all i use after each wash, its also good to apply Z-6 between every additional coat of Z-2.
as for the window film, i would try some Dawn dish washing liquid, it will cut it if it's oil based, you have to wash the car in Dawn before applying the zaino anyway.
Race - Thanks! Good idea. I'd just hate to put something that harsh on her right now. Worth a try on a wet rag though. Think I'm going to get the Zaino glass polish when I order tomorrow. My guess is that if anything can take it out the Zaino can. Hey, what do you use for your aluminum wheels?
lalarry - I'll be watching! If you see a guy in a big red M waving at you, rest assured it's probably me.
Our historic FIRST EVER car meet, the "M Monterey Rendezvous, 2001." We're going to drive, fly, hot-air balloon, however you want to get there will be fine.
The place is Monterey, CA and the dates are August 17 thru 19, 2001. We'll be meeting, socializing, and celebrating our "M-ness" together. (M-ness is a fanatical fondness for the 300M. Don't bother to look it up!)
The main event is the Rolex Monterey Historic Automobile Races at Laguna-Seca Raceway. The Monterey Historic Races are sponsored by Daimler-Chrysler, so what better place to have our first meet! Lets show up in droves and show the boys at DC that this car has a following.
Check out the details on the Club web site at http://www.300mclub.org. You don't have to be a club member to attend, but members will be given priority on booking hotel reservations. This is a BIG event, and most rooms are already booked in the immediate Monterey area.
This is our first step "outside the Internet" as a car club, and we want it to be a rousing success. Mark your calendars and start looking for babysitters now. This is going to be a terrific event.
300Mly,
Roger Waters, President Chrysler 300M Enthusiasts Club
The 300M picture on post 1524 must be a dual exhaust....right? My only regret about the first meeting is that, it is too early to see the 2002's if someone gets one. Also not much time to finish doing more mods:)
sdmike- no pics of the rain drenched M? There's nothing worse than a dirty M, especially since it's been so springlike here in SoCal...up until today that is. It's the first weekend of the month, and that's when the DVYNE M gets an additional coat of Zaino (lets see, it's April the 4th month, an even number, so it's Zaino 2!....I know, I know, call me obsesive...)
If you are placing a Zaino order get the CLay bar. That should get rid of those marks you are talking about. Trust me, the clay bar can get out alot of weird marks. It's expensive, but worth it. For wheel Cleaner, I use Castrol Super Clean all wheel cleaner, works great. I use the Z2, & Z6, ALso use the Leather cleaner. Very happy.
lalarry - She actually looked pretty fine in the rain, although I didn't get a picture of her. My order for Zaino gets called in tomorrow morning (they're closed on the weekends) so it'll likely be another week or more before I get her polished up good. When the rain cleared today and the sun came out I was surprise to see that there were not any water spots on the car. The only rain damage today was a couple of footprints on the floor mat and some road ick on the chrome wheels. *sigh*.
Fuzzy - I think I'll just ask ole' Sal if he can give me a good price on one of everything. LOL. Actually, I don't seem to have any particulate residue on the car at all, unlike my previous car. You could actually feel the roughness of the paint.
All, what is your gas mileage experience with the M? My guage said full when I picked it up with 25 miles on her, and now at 125 miles it says just over 1/4 tank. Either I'm getting 10mpg or my gauge needs some calibration (I'm not driving THAT hard) . It's also possible it wasn't really full. Guess I'll find out with my second fill. Also, what octane gas are you using. The manual says 87 is fine, but I'm inclined to put a good merlot instead of ripple into the tank.
I do a lot of mountain biking and I had some nice Yakima racks on my Galant (now for sale on eBay). Although I've kind of resigned myself to the thought of NOT being able to carry my bike on my M (wouldn't want some bulky bolt-on taking away from her beauty), I was wondering if anyone here has found a very stylish rack for the car that won't detract from the looks. Anyone look into this?
If I bet enough and buy enough jewelry I may be able to attend in August. Keep your fingers crossed. The SoCal owners should get together and mule train up to event. It would be quite a site to have several beautiful Ms all Zaino'ed up and cruising the I5.
Your fuel mileage should increase as you break in the engine. My mileage averages 21.5 with probably 60/40 highway/city with 13.5K miles.
I tried both mid grade and regular and couldn't discern any difference in performance or gas mileage, so I've settled in to using regular and saving the price difference for other goodies.
Bicycle Carrier- Roof Mount Part #: 82203471 MSRP: US $125.00
Carrier attaches to Sport Utility Bars to hold two bikes upright on the roof. Bikes securely mount by the front fork. Carrier includes front wheel holders. Two carriers can be used per roof rack. Requires Sport-Utility Bars (sold separately.) or Mopar Removable Roof rack*
Not for off road use.
Good luck with ole' Sal on the discounts. He seems to be pretty hardnosed about retail pricing. We tried to get a club discount with no success, but the worst he can do is say "no."
I like your idea on the M Caravan to Monterey. Hold that thought and start saving your money. I'll be heading up the Caravan from the North.
I think sdmike has a great idea for those of us in So Cal (actually, I think it's just 2 or three of us) to caravan up the I5 to Monterey. Count me in.
Mileage- I've not once reset my overhead mileage computer, and although durring the break in period the mileage wasn't too good, I've not been able to top 21.0. I do 60/40 Highway/Surface Street driving.
I use mid-grade, with an occasional "treat" of high octane with no real performance difference
My wife and I are looking at buying a 1999 300M . It has 26,000 miles,mint condition. What kind of problems if any exists with this model and does it have a good resale value?
Fastdriver talked Sal into giving us a chrysler 300m discount back in early 2000, i think it was by any 3 get free car wash...over 120 of us got in on that deal, Sal must have got out the calculator on that one. oh well i don't mind paying full price for full service and that's exactly what you get from Sal. Want to test it, send him an e-mail and see how fast he responds.
Check out http://www.300mclub.org/sites.htm and look at the recalls and Technical Service Bulletins on the '99 300M under "Miscellaneous."
While you're there, also check out some of the reviews and awards for the 300M. I think you'll be impressed.
There were problems with window motors on many of the '99s, but those should have all failed by now if they're going to. If the mileage is only 26K, you still have 10K miles left on the factory warranty. Not a bad deal on a used vehicle.
Resale value is not the best compared to the German and some of the Japanese marques, probably average with regard to American built cars in the same class. As with all cars, you can occasionally get a lemon, but overall we think the quality is good.
I'd sure be trying to contact the previous owner and see what their experience was with the car. If the dealer has nothing to hide, he should be willing to give that information to you.
Hope this helps,
Roger Waters, President Chrysler 300M Enthusiasts Club www.300mclub.org
Roger, are you in Norther California too? I talked to my wife about the trip, the only thing that concerns her is the distance of the hotels. Within 1 hour of Monterey could be San Jose or Gilroy? Whats the scoop?
Edmunds here has some information on the 99. Go to this page for more information. They also provide an estimate of the "true market value" of that car. Go HERE for that information. You will also want to look at www.kelleybluebook.com, and if you scroll back to message 1475 you'll see a great posting of links to other car sites where you can read more information. The links are for rebate information pages, but you can certainly go to the main site and find more stuff.
I haven't been able to find my 2001 Consumer Reports Buying Guide since my wife cleaned my desk, but I seem to remember the 99M having better than average repair records in all areas (electrical, engine, body integrity, etc.). You might also want to go to autotrader.com and look at what other 99Ms are selling for, and to http://www.carbuyingtips.com for a lot of helpful hints when buying a used car. Good luck, and we hope you join us.
I could never twist the damn thing off, so I always took my M to the dealer to change oil. Today, I decided again to give it a wack. Broke a few wrenches and the drain plug's head is not hexagonal anymore. I still can't twist it off. I even drilled a hole across the head hoping to stick something through it to help untwisting it... that something broke.
Question is: it seems that no one has ever taken the damn thing off to drain oil. Do the dealers and other shops have other ways to drain oil, besides the plug? Can they siphon it our through the filter opening?
it should be easy to tell if they change the oil. Just wipe your dipstick with a white paper towel before taking it in to see the current condition of the oil, then look at it again after the oil change. Now that you've trashed your drain plug you should go in for an oil change. If they don't notice the battered plug you know they're not going anywhere near it.
It's theoretically possible to suck the oil out the same way it went it, but they'd have to be nuts to do it that way...unless they couldn't get the drain plug out either. You should also put a mark on your filter that will show you whether or not they replace it.
It was about a year ago that we had the Zaino group purchase thing with Sal. The deal was- buy any 5 products and get a full size bottle of car wash free. I received over 200 e-mails with about 120 people ordering. I never received so much e-mail in my life. Kept me really busy for weeks!
I hear your anger and feel your pain. I hope it turns out to be something simple and fixable. We sure don't want to lose another valued member to the Acura camp (very nice car the Acura, nothing against it you understand).
Comments
The Pics
-M
the pics were better before you scaled them down, but we're seeing them just fine.
Race
Also, I'm about to place an order with Zaino. I know I want the Z-1, Z-2 and Z-10 (leather treatment) but I'm unsure on other stuff. I read that the Z-10 is also great for the dash so I won't need anything specifically for that. Any of you use the Z-6? Worth the $10?
Thanks
I have 27704 miles on it.
I have used 1,266.88 gallons of fuel for an average of 22.15 mpg (total cost: $1,872.61 or 1.478 per gallon, mid-grade)
I have spent $1,540.62 on "service" items. This includes oil changes, tranny service, car washes, a replacement K&N filter (with cleaner) and (most of all) a new set of tires.
My insurance cost me $2,165.70 and lasts through May.
Things I call "ownership" costs include principal, interest, license plates, and modifications (window tint, wheels). These costs total $13,016.37.
Total "operational" costs (fuel, service): $3413.23 or 12.3 cents per mile.
Total costs: $23,262.60 or 84.0 cents per mile.
Your mileage may vary. [Insurance will vary on coverage and location. Principal and interest will depend on your loan/lease/etc. Your service will in all likelihood be less because you won't have been dumb enough to put $1,100 worth of tires on the car (twice!).]
Igor
I'd really like to see what my California "neighbor" is driving.
BTW Mike, I get down to S.D. often on business, I'll be watching for you!
Photopoint: when you access the site from the PC where you set up the account, you'll always get the edit view.
Chrome shifter: don't know exactly when, but they stopped installing them as a cost savings. LOL, How much can a chrome insert cost?? Talk your dealer into a swap with one on the lot. It's held by a small socket head setscrew on the front side, 5 minute job to swap out. I installed one on my 2K 300M.
Zaino: Get the Z5 too, it's a direct substitute for Z2 but is great for small scratches and swirl marks. The Z6 is worth the extra bucks. Makes it slicker than a baby's butt.
300M Enthusiasts Club: check us out at http://www.300mclub.org. Get your dealer to sign up in our discount program and save 10% on all your parts and service. Thats a great return on a $10 investment. Also watch the site for an important announcement that will be great for all us West Coast M owners. Oops, I've already said too much!!
Enjoy your new ride. She's a head turner fer shur.
Roger Waters, President
Chrysler 300M Enthusiasts Club
Big Red Pics
Make sure to look at the full size pics. Now it's time to go driiiiiive!
Any ideas on my discoloration of the roof pillars? It almosts looks like oily water spots...but I can't seem to get them off using standard methods. If you don't know what the heck I'm talking about I can take a picture of it.
Back later! Gonna go put about 100 miles on her.
Anyways, congrats on your red rocket. I cruise down to SD at least once a week on biz so I'll look for you on the highway! I'll be the one in the 1991 G20 that you are passing!
Way to go...the commit is sometimes difficult, but hopefully no regrets.
- Bob in RSM, CA
On the roof pillars, are you talking about the gloss black plastic?? Zaino is good for just about anything on the car except the grainy black plastic trim, and I don't think the 2001 has any of that, unless below the wipers.
Don't wanna scare you, but be very careful what you authorize the dealer to "touch up." One of our posters, "intrepidspirit" had an awful battle with the dealer after starting out with some minor touchups. They finally repainted almost the whole car over a 2 week period before they finally got everything to match. I'd try the Zaino Z5 several times on the swirl marks and see if that fixes them first.
Have fun,
Roger
Dealer told me that the tires I wanted or on back order (could be up to 4 more weeks) I have been waiting 3 weeks already. Discount Tire said they would beat any offer I could find 18" Zennetti Vega's and 275/40 S0-2 Pole Positions, for $2400. I may have to keep my 17" and go with 255/50 Bridgestone 730's or BfGoodrich G-force.
Thanks. I like the looks of this model the best. Can't wait to put on the Zaino.
Evandermel-
I forgot that you got a CL Type-S too! I can't get enough of this car. I have over 600 miles already since Wednesday. Was out all afternoon driving. Not sure which CL group to go to here in TH. Don't want the ones that compare this to that. Just want one as nice, friendly and helpful as this 300 group!
laurasdada-
Thanks. If you don't need the backseat room or 4 doors, then go drive one of these Type S's. It must be time for a visit to Mohegan Sun. I remember when I got Christine, I said to the guy that I wanted VIP parking because I just got this car and didn't want any nicks or scratches yet! Not sure if I want anyone to drive this one yet! ;-))
bigmike5-
They just came out with a 2002 TL(?) Type-S that is $1,000 more then the CL. It has 4 doors. To me, those models, TL and RL or whatever they're called, all look blah. The CL has SOME character! I don't think the CL is Buickized at all. You asked about the tires. This is what they say- Michelin Pilots P215/50 R17 93V HXMXM4. Not sure if it's the tires that are quiet or the insulation on the car?
dustinnewton-
I never even inquired about what the Nav system would cost on the lease per month. I don't really know why because I love gadgets and computers. For some reason, I figured I couldn't drive, shift, smoke, use the cell phone and drink my Dunkin Donuts coffee all at the same time! LOL.... I did get Lojack for only $2.00 more a month though and will save 15% on my comprehensive insurance.
sdmike2-
GREAT PICS!! My favorite color! LOL.. Drive it in good health. Wait until you get the Zaino on it! WOW!! It is a headturner for sure in that color.
lalarry & sleepymw-
I can't leave this group! I was one of the original members back in June of 98. There's too many good people here to abandon just because Christine is gone! Besides, someone might end up buying Christine and then find this group and need help! LOL... I still have her VIN! I could be a big help- no?
Tag2000-
Isn't this a coincidence? I had NO intention of getting this car. I went with a friend to look at used CL's. While he was talking to the saleslady, I went to see a salesman to get some lease figures for the CL Type-S. Why? I have NO clue. I didn't even know what options there were on this car. I just knew that when I saw the car in person I liked it a lot. When he asked if I wanted to drive one I said great! That was it. I bought the car in RI though and not from this dealer. My brother knew someone who worked at the BMW section of this dealership in RI. So, I went there and had him introduce me to the Acura people. The next thing you know, I was signing papers! That was a week ago today and now she's in my driveway. Can't wait to go out tonight so I can drive again! Good thing I opted for the 15,000 miles again! LOL... This car just might have the max miles because of the 4 year, 50,000 mile warranty! Christine only had 35,432 miles or so on her. All I knew was that she was not going to be registered in MY name when she hit 36,000! My "5-STAR" dealers were less then accomodating when the car was in warranty. WHAT chance would I ever have of them helping me if something broke between now and June with NO warranty? I was not willing to take that chance especially with the sloppiness of the transmission shifting. I could have remedied that by pulling the TCM fuse again I guess. I'm just happy she's gone.
Sorry for the long post, but I just had to respond to everyone who commented about my new ride. At least now you won't have to listen to anymore stories about Christine! LOL.... I hope she does not reappear here with a new owner! Her last resting place was the Chrysler dealer in Newport, RI. WHERE she goes from there is anyone's guess!
fastdriver
Other than that, I'm in love. I put about 100 miles on her today running errands and every moment was a joy. I went to the 5* to pick up my sunglasses and garage remote that I forgot, and all the sales guys were staring at her. By far the nicest car on the lot. I felt great when I put my glasses on and slowly pulled out of the lot.
-Mike
-Mike
as for the window film, i would try some Dawn dish washing liquid, it will cut it if it's oil based, you have to wash the car in Dawn before applying the zaino anyway.
Race
Thanks! Good idea. I'd just hate to put something that harsh on her right now. Worth a try on a wet rag though. Think I'm going to get the Zaino glass polish when I order tomorrow. My guess is that if anything can take it out the Zaino can. Hey, what do you use for your aluminum wheels?
lalarry -
I'll be watching! If you see a guy in a big red M waving at you, rest assured it's probably me.
-Mike
The place is Monterey, CA and the dates are August 17 thru 19, 2001. We'll be meeting, socializing, and celebrating our "M-ness" together. (M-ness is a fanatical fondness for the 300M. Don't bother to look it up!)
The main event is the Rolex Monterey Historic Automobile Races at Laguna-Seca Raceway. The Monterey Historic Races are sponsored by Daimler-Chrysler, so what better place to have our first meet! Lets show up in droves and show the boys at DC that this car has a following.
Check out the details on the Club web site at http://www.300mclub.org. You don't have to be a club member to attend, but members will be given priority on booking hotel reservations. This is a BIG event, and most rooms are already booked in the immediate Monterey area.
This is our first step "outside the Internet" as a car club, and we want it to be a rousing success. Mark your calendars and start looking for babysitters now. This is going to be a terrific event.
300Mly,
Roger Waters, President
Chrysler 300M Enthusiasts Club
Thanks DrPix!!
-M
She actually looked pretty fine in the rain, although I didn't get a picture of her. My order for Zaino gets called in tomorrow morning (they're closed on the weekends) so it'll likely be another week or more before I get her polished up good. When the rain cleared today and the sun came out I was surprise to see that there were not any water spots on the car. The only rain damage today was a couple of footprints on the floor mat and some road ick on the chrome wheels. *sigh*.
Fuzzy -
I think I'll just ask ole' Sal if he can give me a good price on one of everything. LOL. Actually, I don't seem to have any particulate residue on the car at all, unlike my previous car. You could actually feel the roughness of the paint.
All, what is your gas mileage experience with the M? My guage said full when I picked it up with 25 miles on her, and now at 125 miles it says just over 1/4 tank. Either I'm getting 10mpg or my gauge needs some calibration (I'm not driving THAT hard)
-M
Mike
If I bet enough and buy enough jewelry I may be able to attend in August. Keep your fingers crossed. The SoCal owners should get together and mule train up to event. It would be quite a site to have several beautiful Ms all Zaino'ed up and cruising the I5.
I tried both mid grade and regular and couldn't discern any difference in performance or gas mileage, so I've settled in to using regular and saving the price difference for other goodies.
On the bike racks, the following is from the DC accessories page at http://www.chrysler.com/universal/index.jsp
Bicycle Carrier- Roof Mount
Part #: 82203471
MSRP: US $125.00
Carrier attaches to Sport Utility Bars to hold two bikes upright on the roof. Bikes securely mount by the front fork. Carrier includes front wheel holders. Two carriers can be used per roof rack. Requires Sport-Utility Bars (sold separately.) or Mopar Removable Roof rack*
Not for off road use.
Good luck with ole' Sal on the discounts. He seems to be pretty hardnosed about retail pricing. We tried to get a club discount with no success, but the worst he can do is say "no."
I like your idea on the M Caravan to Monterey. Hold that thought and start saving your money. I'll be heading up the Caravan from the North.
300M with dual exhaust system
Take Care,
Roger
Mileage- I've not once reset my overhead mileage computer, and although durring the break in period the mileage wasn't too good, I've not been able to top 21.0. I do 60/40 Highway/Surface Street driving.
I use mid-grade, with an occasional "treat" of high octane with no real performance difference
Can anyone help us?
Race
While you're there, also check out some of the reviews and awards for the 300M. I think you'll be impressed.
There were problems with window motors on many of the '99s, but those should have all failed by now if they're going to. If the mileage is only 26K, you still have 10K miles left on the factory warranty. Not a bad deal on a used vehicle.
Resale value is not the best compared to the German and some of the Japanese marques, probably average with regard to American built cars in the same class. As with all cars, you can occasionally get a lemon, but overall we think the quality is good.
I'd sure be trying to contact the previous owner and see what their experience was with the car. If the dealer has nothing to hide, he should be willing to give that information to you.
Hope this helps,
Roger Waters, President
Chrysler 300M Enthusiasts Club
www.300mclub.org
Keith
The rooms we have booked are in Morgan Hill, just to the north of Gilroy.
Roger
I haven't been able to find my 2001 Consumer Reports Buying Guide since my wife cleaned my desk, but I seem to remember the 99M having better than average repair records in all areas (electrical, engine, body integrity, etc.). You might also want to go to autotrader.com and look at what other 99Ms are selling for, and to http://www.carbuyingtips.com for a lot of helpful hints when buying a used car. Good luck, and we hope you join us.
-M
Question is: it seems that no one has ever taken the damn thing off to drain oil. Do the dealers and other shops have other ways to drain oil, besides the plug? Can they siphon it our through the filter opening?
Is it possible that they never changed my oil?
It was about a year ago that we had the Zaino group purchase thing with Sal. The deal was- buy any 5 products and get a full size bottle of car wash free. I received over 200 e-mails with about 120 people ordering. I never received so much e-mail in my life. Kept me really busy for weeks!
fastdriver