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  • MichaellMichaell Moderator Posts: 262,995
    abacomike said:

    The new season of “Wheeler Dealers” premiers this coming Wednesday at 9;00 PM on the Velocity Channel.  “Ant”, Edd China’s replacement, does his magic on a 1995 Ford Escort RS Cogsworth.  

    I think I’m Going to miss Edd China, but I’ll reserve my final evaluation of the new season until I’ve watched 3-4 episodes.  This new guy “Ant” (short for Anthony or Anton, I imagine) seems more “hyper” in his personality than Edd was, but the proof will be in his skills as a mechanic!  

    I used to really enjoy that show - I pray they haven’t messed it up!   :o

    It's Anthony.

    And, he's on another show I've been watching, "For the Love of Cars", which is similar to WD but focuses specifically on British classics. IMO, he'll be a good replacement for Edd, but I wonder what other changes in the format they'll have for us.

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    2015 Subaru Outback 3.6R / 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX Prestige

  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,435
    are they at least back in Britain? For some reason, I like the shows from over there better

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • MichaellMichaell Moderator Posts: 262,995
    stickguy said:

    are they at least back in Britain? For some reason, I like the shows from over there better

    Nope, still being filmed here in the US of A.

    The trailer shows an Escort RS Cosworth, an Austin Healy, and an early 70's Mustang. A few others I can't remember.

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  • oldfarmer50oldfarmer50 Member Posts: 24,237
    abacomike said:

    The new season of “Wheeler Dealers” premiers this coming Wednesday at 9;00 PM on the Velocity Channel.  “Ant”, Edd China’s replacement, does his magic on a 1995 Ford Escort RS Cogsworth.  

    I think I’m Going to miss Edd China, but I’ll reserve my final evaluation of the new season until I’ve watched 3-4 episodes.  This new guy “Ant” (short for Anthony or Anton, I imagine) seems more “hyper” in his personality than Edd was, but the proof will be in his skills as a mechanic!  

    I used to really enjoy that show - I pray they haven’t messed it up!   :o

    Wish they had continued the Fast n' Loud show after Aaron left. Instead they have a new show where Richard cleans out various failing gas stations and fights with their OCD owners. More drama, no cars. I don't see it lasting long.

    2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    Michaell said:

    Michaell said:

    Michaell said:



    Hey, anyone have a source for car residual values? I know there are some sites that dealers subscribe to but a quick google search didn't lead to anything helpful. Just articles about "the top ten high residuals" etc.

    Gee, I think I can help you here. 

    What'cha need?
    Nothing specific, just wanted to poke around and compare various cars. I know dealers use ALG but I believe that's a subscription service.

    Edit: found this site which is interesting:

    http://residuals.cula.com/vehicleresidualcalculator/consumer-lease.aspx
    Well, I've got access to more reliable information, so if you've got a make and model you're curious about, let me know.
    I ran a new Mustang and new CTS6 through that site and got a 39% residual on the Ford and 25% on the Caddy after 60 months. Relatively speaking that would make the Caddy a used car bargin (unless it is a bad car from the start).
    That makes a huge difference in the cost of driving......those residual values. I take that into account to some degree when I buy a car, I hate trying to trade in a car that a dealer doesn't really want and getting a low trade in price. The same with houses, I like buying a house I know prospective buyers in the future will be interested in. OTOH, my wife gets the car or house she wants and couldn't care less about having to sell it later. My method works for me, and her method works for her.....but if it is a shared item like the house - we have to use her method! :'(

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • graphicguygraphicguy Member Posts: 14,126
    ab348 said:


    Craig....I have Amazon Music (total access free with Prime) on my iPhone downloaded via the App Store (free). I connect it via blue tooth to my car’s AcuraLink (HondaLink). It shows the artist, the track name, and album name on my lower screen. Sounds better than Sat Radio, too.

    At home (like now, as I’m sipping coffee), I have a blue tooth speaker (Marshal) that I stream Amazon Music to.

    In addition, I get all the original programming Amazon has on TV. Pretty good deal, I think.

    Unfortunately for us poor second-class saps up in Canada, Amazon Prime here does not include any music.

    For $79 a year, we get 2-day shipping and Amazon Video, which may or may not be the same video you see in the USA.
    Didn’t know that. I thought Amazon Prime was the same throughout North America!
    2024 Kia EV6 GT-Line AWD Long Range
  • graphicguygraphicguy Member Posts: 14,126

    abacomike said:

    The new season of “Wheeler Dealers” premiers this coming Wednesday at 9;00 PM on the Velocity Channel.  “Ant”, Edd China’s replacement, does his magic on a 1995 Ford Escort RS Cogsworth.  

    I think I’m Going to miss Edd China, but I’ll reserve my final evaluation of the new season until I’ve watched 3-4 episodes.  This new guy “Ant” (short for Anthony or Anton, I imagine) seems more “hyper” in his personality than Edd was, but the proof will be in his skills as a mechanic!  

    I used to really enjoy that show - I pray they haven’t messed it up!   :o

    Wish they had continued the Fast n' Loud show after Aaron left. Instead they have a new show where Richard cleans out various failing gas stations and fights with their OCD owners. More drama, no cars. I don't see it lasting long.

    Well....cross that one off my list. I liked Aaron. But, the crux of Gas Monkey was the buy, the build and the flip. I think towards the end, it was clear Rawlings cared more about his other endeavors (restaurant) than building/flipping cars. It seemed Aaron just wanted to build them.

    WD....seems the same twist almost. Brewer is more interested in the entertainment part and Chyna was more interested in the building of them.

    Once fake drama is injected into any of these types of shows, it seems the quality of them goes down and they aren’t long for this world (i.e. Fantom Works or the guy who does MOPAR builds).

    I do like “Kindigit” and Chip Foose’s shows, however.
    2024 Kia EV6 GT-Line AWD Long Range
  • snakeweaselsnakeweasel Member Posts: 19,592
    driver100 said:
    driver100 said:
     I have that question that I wanted a mechanic to answer.....Could it be unsafe making an AWD BMW X3 into a 2WD car? I got some good answers here but I would like a mechanic to explain whether it can be done safely and the reasons. 
    I am not a mechanic but I will say that it can be done safely if you have a mechanic that has the skills to do it and you don't skimp on the funds. The next question is why do it and is it worth it?
    He did it because the dealer wanted $8000 to fix the car. He got a dodgy mechanic to fix the car for a few $100s, by changing it to 2WD. It just sounds like it is asking for trouble, but, I can't get a definitive answer as to how. I hadn't thought of it but maybe I can write to BMW....I will see if that is possible. It is possible....I sent BMW the question....see when and IF they get back!
    Remember I said it could be done safely if you have the right person for the job and spend enough money. I don't think it can be done safely for a few hundred dollars, I would think several thousand dollars at a minimum would be needed to do it properly. 

    2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    It sounds like those shows have "Jumped the Shark" so to speak.

    In case anyone doesn't know what that means:
    The idiom "jumping the shark" is pejorative, most commonly used in reference to gimmicks for promoting entertainment outlets, such as a television series, that are declining in popularity.[1]

    Originally the phrase was used to describe an episode of a television comedy with a gimmick or unlikely occurrence desperately attempting to keep viewers' interest. Moments labelled as "jumping the shark" are considered indications that writers have exhausted their focus;[citation needed] that the show has strayed irretrievably from an older and better formula; or that the series as a whole is declining in quality.

    Popularized by radio personality Jon Hein in the 1990s and early 2000s, the phrase derives from a scene in a fifth-season episode of the sitcom Happy Days in which the character Fonzie jumps over a shark while on water-skis.[2][3][4] This was deemed a ratings ploy, for it was outside of the original thrust of the sitcom.

    The usage of "jump the shark" has subsequently broadened beyond television, indicating the moment when a brand, design, franchise, or creative effort's evolution declines, or when it changes notably in style into something unwelcome

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594


    driver100 said:


    driver100 said:

     I have that question that I wanted a mechanic to answer.....Could it be unsafe making an AWD BMW X3 into a 2WD car? I got some good answers here but I would like a mechanic to explain whether it can be done safely and the reasons. 

    I am not a mechanic but I will say that it can be done safely if you have a mechanic that has the skills to do it and you don't skimp on the funds. The next question is why do it and is it worth it?
    He did it because the dealer wanted $8000 to fix the car. He got a dodgy mechanic to fix the car for a few $100s, by changing it to 2WD. It just sounds like it is asking for trouble, but, I can't get a definitive answer as to how. I hadn't thought of it but maybe I can write to BMW....I will see if that is possible.

    It is possible....I sent BMW the question....see when and IF they get back!

    Remember I said it could be done safely if you have the right person for the job and spend enough money. I don't think it can be done safely for a few hundred dollars, I would think several thousand dollars at a minimum would be needed to do it properly. 

    I noted that in your post. I have no idea. I have read of Jeeps being done very easily, but, I believe the JEEP 4WD system isn't as complex....it is either on or off....not working all the time to send signals to the wheels.
    I am sure it can be done for a price....he wouldn't have done it if it cost $1000s I don't think, although, with him, anything saved is money saved in his mind....even if it costs more down the road or if it leaves the car unsafe to drive.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • snakeweaselsnakeweasel Member Posts: 19,592
    driver100 said:the
    driver100 said:
    driver100 said:
     I have that question that I wanted a mechanic to answer.....Could it be unsafe making an AWD BMW X3 into a 2WD car? I got some good answers here but I would like a mechanic to explain whether it can be done safely and the reasons. 
    I am not a mechanic but I will say that it can be done safely if you have a mechanic that has the skills to do it and you don't skimp on the funds. The next question is why do it and is it worth it?
    He did it because the dealer wanted $8000 to fix the car. He got a dodgy mechanic to fix the car for a few $100s, by changing it to 2WD. It just sounds like it is asking for trouble, but, I can't get a definitive answer as to how. I hadn't thought of it but maybe I can write to BMW....I will see if that is possible. It is possible....I sent BMW the question....see when and IF they get back!
    Remember I said it could be done safely if you have the right person for the job and spend enough money. I don't think it can be done safely for a few hundred dollars, I would think several thousand dollars at a minimum would be needed to do it properly. 
    I noted that in your post. I have no idea. I have read of Jeeps being done very easily, but, I believe the JEEP 4WD system isn't as complex....it is either on or off....not working all the time to send signals to the wheels. I am sure it can be done for a price....he wouldn't have done it if it cost $1000s I don't think, although, with him, anything saved is money saved in his mind....even if it costs more down the road or if it leaves the car unsafe to drive.
    4WD systems tend to be easier because in most cases (maybe all) it's the driver who decides if it's going on 2 WD or 4WD. Most systems have a 3 way selection of 2WD/4WD/4WD low. Since the vehicle can be driven strictly in 2WD mode its easier to convert it to 2WD. 

    2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D

  • ab348ab348 Member Posts: 20,316
    edited October 2017
    abacomike said:

    The new season of “Wheeler Dealers” premiers this coming Wednesday at 9;00 PM on the Velocity Channel.

    No indication of when the new series will air on Velocity Canada. They are still running and promoting the Edd China shows here.
    “Ant”, Edd China’s replacement, does his magic on a 1995 Ford Escort RS Cogsworth.  

    I think I’m Going to miss Edd China, but I’ll reserve my final evaluation of the new season until I’ve watched 3-4 episodes.  This new guy “Ant” (short for Anthony or Anton, I imagine) seems more “hyper” in his personality than Edd was, but the proof will be in his skills as a mechanic!  

    I used to really enjoy that show - I pray they haven’t messed it up!   :o
    The shows done in the USA just have not been as enjoyable for me. The most recent season was a new low for me and I didn't like them at all. A bit more fake drama, a bit more time-wasting with scenes outside the garage environment, but hard to put my finger on any one thing that dragged it down. I think Edd had already decided he was done and had checked out mentally. I think the series hit its peak around season 6 or 7. I enjoy seeing them work on Euro cars we are less familiar with.

    2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6

  • Mr_ShiftrightMr_Shiftright Member Posts: 64,481

    driver100 said:

    2014 XTS....fully loaded!

    What kind of mileage is on that car?

    I searched for various levels of equipment on the XTS within a large radius of Cincy here to see what the US dollars in the midwest are for that car. Various mileage and some may have dirty carfax and Carcheck records but the asking in US $ seems to run $25-30K, before the dealer tries to add on packs. Is it because the newer model replacing that one is much more desirable?

    I expected to find the pricing much higher in urban areas around here because the Cadillac SUVs are very popular.

    https://autotrader.com/cars-for-sale/2014/Cadillac/XTS/Cincinnati+OH-45245?zip=45245&startYear=2014&numRecords=25&sortBy=derivedpriceDESC&firstRecord=25&endYear=2014&modelCodeList=XTS&makeCodeList=CAD&searchRadius=200&trimCodeList=XTS|Premium Luxury,XTS|Premium,XTS|Platinum,XTS|Luxury

    Seems driver100's friend got a good offer.

    Told ya! B) I thought the dealer's offer was a tad generous.
  • iluvmysephia1iluvmysephia1 Member Posts: 7,709
    edited October 2017

    2017 Subaru Impreza hatch and sedan

    These new Subaru Impreza's are really quite...impressive. I know, but I just couldn't resist. They have a curb weight of 2,964 lbs. which seems a titch heavy but really isn't. When you consider what's riding on your tires. For a longer, wider Subaru Impreza, you're gonna want some weight to hold the car on the road when you lean back down in and straighten your Impreza out for the long haul on the straightaways ahead.

    Get out there and drive. I saw a black sedan and couldn't identify it. That's what got me looking in to what I saw that night. It was dark out and I couldn't make out the lines of the automobile. I thought Subaru because of it's body brand identity. It showed even in the side view at night. It was either a 2017 or 2018 Subaru Impreza. The underpinnings of the Impreza will now in the future be the underpinnings of each and every Subaru model. Including the CrossTrek.

    Every model of Impreza gets a rear view camera and Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, which is a great thing to have. And symmetrical AWD, of course. After all, it's a Subaru. Get out and drive. All 2017 and/on Subaru Impreza models are assembled in Lafayette, Indiana.

    2017 Subaru Impreza engine specs

    2.0L 1995cc 4 cylinder, engine code FB20
    Horizontally Opposed Boxer design
    DOHC with timing chain (not a belt)
    16 valve- dual active valve control system (DAVCS)
    new for 2017 Sequential direct fuel injection
    Dual Active Value Control System DAVCS
    Bore x Stroke 3.31" x 3.54" (84mmx90mm)
    new for 2017 Compression 12.5:1
    Composite intake manifold
    new for 2017 Composite valve covers
    new for 2017 Active grill shutter (Sport and Limited models only)
    Redline- 6600 RPM

    I like that the 2017 Subaru Impreza is built with a timing chain, not a timing belt. I have bad memories of a certain 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer GTS in automatic CVT transmission and Rally Red breaking a serpentine belt on the way to El Paso that fateful sunny day. The design was such that it caused the engine to seize up completely. Boy, the graphic on the information screen was really impressive, if not cryptic. Right after my accelerator went all the way down to the floor and I floated over to the side of Highway 54 south to El Paso, a weird graphic showed up on the screen showing a battery turning over and over again at all angles. I looked over at my wife and all I could say was "What going on here?" I called for a tow and the rest is history. Mitsubishi Corporate refused to play smart and grant us some kind of a engine part post-mortem rebate check of some kind. They lost me as a repeat new car customer after their attitude regarding that event.

    The 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer GTS had a timing belt, not surprising, considering what happened to ours. Looking forward to a better overall ownership experience with Subaru. BTW - apparently liberal War-shing-tonians love Subaru's. I didn't know that till I moved back to War-shing-ton. Man, there's Subaru's all over here. Gonna head over ta Wal*Mart and bring our garbage can back for a refund that we thought we needed at the rental here plus a part for my desktop that I don't need, either, because I found a pull-down that had "Wifi 2" on it. I couldn't connect to the wifi upstairs, even though my Motorola moto G4 was fully connected up and working fine. So I bought a wireless wifi extender and planned to connect it to my desktop today. Well, last night I sat down to my desktop and decided to check out my wifi settings a bit closer. I found a pulldown arrow and clicked on it. It said "wifi 2" and I let up on it. I clicked "connect" and Voila! It works! Yeah!

    Hopefully the Seahawk's will solve some of their problems and pick up win number 2 today against IND. Let's rumble.

    2021 Kia Soul LX 6-speed stick

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594

    driver100 said:

    2014 XTS....fully loaded!

    What kind of mileage is on that car?

    I searched for various levels of equipment on the XTS within a large radius of Cincy here to see what the US dollars in the midwest are for that car. Various mileage and some may have dirty carfax and Carcheck records but the asking in US $ seems to run $25-30K, before the dealer tries to add on packs. Is it because the newer model replacing that one is much more desirable?

    I expected to find the pricing much higher in urban areas around here because the Cadillac SUVs are very popular.

    https://autotrader.com/cars-for-sale/2014/Cadillac/XTS/Cincinnati+OH-45245?zip=45245&startYear=2014&numRecords=25&sortBy=derivedpriceDESC&firstRecord=25&endYear=2014&modelCodeList=XTS&makeCodeList=CAD&searchRadius=200&trimCodeList=XTS|Premium Luxury,XTS|Premium,XTS|Platinum,XTS|Luxury

    Seems driver100's friend got a good offer.

    Told ya! B) I thought the dealer's offer was a tad generous.
    The deal would probably be as generous as possible....my friend buys a new Caddie from him every 3 years....for about 30 years! He even has a Caddie golf cart (excuse the pun :p ) he bought through the dealer. He is the kind of customer a dealership loves....no questions asked, a new car like clockwork every 3 years....except this time.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    iluv.....the Impreza seems like a really good buy, and it looks like you may need that AWD. Better not buy it yet though, you will probably find something you like better by next week.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594


    driver100 said:the


    driver100 said:


    driver100 said:

     I have that question that I wanted a mechanic to answer.....Could it be unsafe making an AWD BMW X3 into a 2WD car? I got some good answers here but I would like a mechanic to explain whether it can be done safely and the reasons. 

    I am not a mechanic but I will say that it can be done safely if you have a mechanic that has the skills to do it and you don't skimp on the funds. The next question is why do it and is it worth it?
    He did it because the dealer wanted $8000 to fix the car. He got a dodgy mechanic to fix the car for a few $100s, by changing it to 2WD. It just sounds like it is asking for trouble, but, I can't get a definitive answer as to how. I hadn't thought of it but maybe I can write to BMW....I will see if that is possible.

    It is possible....I sent BMW the question....see when and IF they get back!

    Remember I said it could be done safely if you have the right person for the job and spend enough money. I don't think it can be done safely for a few hundred dollars, I would think several thousand dollars at a minimum would be needed to do it properly. 

    I noted that in your post. I have no idea. I have read of Jeeps being done very easily, but, I believe the JEEP 4WD system isn't as complex....it is either on or off....not working all the time to send signals to the wheels.
    I am sure it can be done for a price....he wouldn't have done it if it cost $1000s I don't think, although, with him, anything saved is money saved in his mind....even if it costs more down the road or if it leaves the car unsafe to drive.

    4WD systems tend to be easier because in most cases (maybe all) it's the driver who decides if it's going on 2 WD or 4WD. Most systems have a 3 way selection of 2WD/4WD/4WD low. Since the vehicle can be driven strictly in 2WD mode its easier to convert it to 2WD. 

    That explains it nicely, thanx.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    Hey moderators....can we get the shading corrected. I am getting tired of doing all my own editing...it isn't in my contract.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • fintailfintail Member Posts: 58,456
    I slowly stopped watching WD when they moved stateside. For me, a big part of it was the unusual cars that judt don't exist here. I can see Mustangs and Camaros every day if I want. But a weird old Saab rescued from the junkyard or Lamborghini Urraco, I'd tune in. Oh well.
    ab348 said:



    The shows done in the USA just have not been as enjoyable for me. The most recent season was a new low for me and I didn't like them at all. A bit more fake drama, a bit more time-wasting with scenes outside the garage environment, but hard to put my finger on any one thing that dragged it down. I think Edd had already decided he was done and had checked out mentally. I think the series hit its peak around season 6 or 7. I enjoy seeing them work on Euro cars we are less familiar with.

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    I saw one of these today:


    I like the red interior;


    I just read a review comparing the Alfa to a BMW 340 (I believe). They gave the Alfa an edge for being more unique, better handling, but the 340 won on interior and a better bet, for reliability. The reviewer said if you do decide on the Giulia lease it......might be in the garage more than on the road.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 18,352
    My friend Sam Smith's Alfa experience.

    I'd lease a Giulia but the residuals are dismal...

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
    Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
    Son's: 2018 330i xDrive

  • isellhondasisellhondas Member Posts: 20,342


    2017 Subaru Impreza hatch and sedan

    These new Subaru Impreza's are really quite...impressive. I know, but I just couldn't resist. They have a curb weight of 2,964 lbs. which seems a titch heavy but really isn't. When you consider what's riding on your tires. For a longer, wider Subaru Impreza, you're gonna want some weight to hold the car on the road when you lean back down in and straighten your Impreza out for the long haul on the straightaways ahead.

    Get out there and drive. I saw a black sedan and couldn't identify it. That's what got me looking in to what I saw that night. It was dark out and I couldn't make out the lines of the automobile. I thought Subaru because of it's body brand identity. It showed even in the side view at night. It was either a 2017 or 2018 Subaru Impreza. The underpinnings of the Impreza will now in the future be the underpinnings of each and every Subaru model. Including the CrossTrek.

    Every model of Impreza gets a rear view camera and Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, which is a great thing to have. And symmetrical AWD, of course. After all, it's a Subaru. Get out and drive. All 2017 and/on Subaru Impreza models are assembled in Lafayette, Indiana.

    2017 Subaru Impreza engine specs

    2.0L 1995cc 4 cylinder, engine code FB20
    Horizontally Opposed Boxer design
    DOHC with timing chain (not a belt)
    16 valve- dual active valve control system (DAVCS)
    new for 2017 Sequential direct fuel injection
    Dual Active Value Control System DAVCS
    Bore x Stroke 3.31" x 3.54" (84mmx90mm)
    new for 2017 Compression 12.5:1
    Composite intake manifold
    new for 2017 Composite valve covers
    new for 2017 Active grill shutter (Sport and Limited models only)
    Redline- 6600 RPM

    I like that the 2017 Subaru Impreza is built with a timing chain, not a timing belt. I have bad memories of a certain 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer GTS in automatic CVT transmission and Rally Red breaking a serpentine belt on the way to El Paso that fateful sunny day. The design was such that it caused the engine to seize up completely. Boy, the graphic on the information screen was really impressive, if not cryptic. Right after my accelerator went all the way down to the floor and I floated over to the side of Highway 54 south to El Paso, a weird graphic showed up on the screen showing a battery turning over and over again at all angles. I looked over at my wife and all I could say was "What going on here?" I called for a tow and the rest is history. Mitsubishi Corporate refused to play smart and grant us some kind of a engine part post-mortem rebate check of some kind. They lost me as a repeat new car customer after their attitude regarding that event.

    The 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer GTS had a timing belt, not surprising, considering what happened to ours. Looking forward to a better overall ownership experience with Subaru. BTW - apparently liberal War-shing-tonians love Subaru's. I didn't know that till I moved back to War-shing-ton. Man, there's Subaru's all over here. Gonna head over ta Wal*Mart and bring our garbage can back for a refund that we thought we needed at the rental here plus a part for my desktop that I don't need, either, because I found a pull-down that had "Wifi 2" on it. I couldn't connect to the wifi upstairs, even though my Motorola moto G4 was fully connected up and working fine. So I bought a wireless wifi extender and planned to connect it to my desktop today. Well, last night I sat down to my desktop and decided to check out my wifi settings a bit closer. I found a pulldown arrow and clicked on it. It said "wifi 2" and I let up on it. I clicked "connect" and Voila! It works! Yeah!

    Hopefully the Seahawk's will solve some of their problems and pick up win number 2 today against IND. Let's rumble.

    When timing belts are changed on time they are rarely a problem.

    Most cars now call for a timing belt change around 100,000 miles. To me that isn't a big deal. Chains can cause troubles too!
  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    edited October 2017

    My friend Sam Smith's Alfa experience.

    I'd lease a Giulia but the residuals are dismal...

    Good article. Scary....such a great car in theory is going to be a mess of trouble. One small section mentioned:
    My last Giulia press car—two months ago, in Seattle—idled so unevenly, the cabin rocked. Its transmission didn’t like pulling away from stoplights, either slipping excessively or jerking to speed from a stop. Earlier this year, when our digital director, Travis Okulski, had a test Giulia, the headlight washer cover fell off, the seat-height adjuster came away in his hands, and the radio refused to change stations.

    and, he even talked about worse problems reviewers were experiencing. He talked about what a joy it was to drive....when it is working. Too bad!

    I don't even think I would lease it....just too frustrating to have such an unreliable car.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • houdini1houdini1 Member Posts: 8,351

    ab348 said:


    Craig....I have Amazon Music (total access free with Prime) on my iPhone downloaded via the App Store (free). I connect it via blue tooth to my car’s AcuraLink (HondaLink). It shows the artist, the track name, and album name on my lower screen. Sounds better than Sat Radio, too.

    At home (like now, as I’m sipping coffee), I have a blue tooth speaker (Marshal) that I stream Amazon Music to.

    In addition, I get all the original programming Amazon has on TV. Pretty good deal, I think.

    Unfortunately for us poor second-class saps up in Canada, Amazon Prime here does not include any music.

    For $79 a year, we get 2-day shipping and Amazon Video, which may or may not be the same video you see in the USA.
    Didn’t know that. I thought Amazon Prime was the same throughout North America!
    Well, I think we pay $99. a year, so $79. CDN is not that bad. Maybe there is an option for a few more bucks to get music.

    2013 LX 570 2016 LS 460

  • snakeweaselsnakeweasel Member Posts: 19,592
    driver100 said:
    driver100 said:the
    driver100 said:
    driver100 said:
     I have that question that I wanted a mechanic to answer.....Could it be unsafe making an AWD BMW X3 into a 2WD car? I got some good answers here but I would like a mechanic to explain whether it can be done safely and the reasons. 
    I am not a mechanic but I will say that it can be done safely if you have a mechanic that has the skills to do it and you don't skimp on the funds. The next question is why do it and is it worth it?
    He did it because the dealer wanted $8000 to fix the car. He got a dodgy mechanic to fix the car for a few $100s, by changing it to 2WD. It just sounds like it is asking for trouble, but, I can't get a definitive answer as to how. I hadn't thought of it but maybe I can write to BMW....I will see if that is possible. It is possible....I sent BMW the question....see when and IF they get back!
    Remember I said it could be done safely if you have the right person for the job and spend enough money. I don't think it can be done safely for a few hundred dollars, I would think several thousand dollars at a minimum would be needed to do it properly. 
    I noted that in your post. I have no idea. I have read of Jeeps being done very easily, but, I believe the JEEP 4WD system isn't as complex....it is either on or off....not working all the time to send signals to the wheels. I am sure it can be done for a price....he wouldn't have done it if it cost $1000s I don't think, although, with him, anything saved is money saved in his mind....even if it costs more down the road or if it leaves the car unsafe to drive.
    4WD systems tend to be easier because in most cases (maybe all) it's the driver who decides if it's going on 2 WD or 4WD. Most systems have a 3 way selection of 2WD/4WD/4WD low. Since the vehicle can be driven strictly in 2WD mode its easier to convert it to 2WD. 
    That explains it nicely, thanx.
    Speaking of 4WD i would love to see Chrysler bring back the original Eagle, a 4WD sedan and a 4 WD wagon with a higher than normal road clearance. Those cars were years ahead of their time. 

    2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    I thought you meant this 4 WD Eagle;

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • houdini1houdini1 Member Posts: 8,351


    driver100 said:


    driver100 said:the


    driver100 said:


    driver100 said:

     I have that question that I wanted a mechanic to answer.....Could it be unsafe making an AWD BMW X3 into a 2WD car? I got some good answers here but I would like a mechanic to explain whether it can be done safely and the reasons. 

    I am not a mechanic but I will say that it can be done safely if you have a mechanic that has the skills to do it and you don't skimp on the funds. The next question is why do it and is it worth it?
    He did it because the dealer wanted $8000 to fix the car. He got a dodgy mechanic to fix the car for a few $100s, by changing it to 2WD. It just sounds like it is asking for trouble, but, I can't get a definitive answer as to how. I hadn't thought of it but maybe I can write to BMW....I will see if that is possible.

    It is possible....I sent BMW the question....see when and IF they get back!

    Remember I said it could be done safely if you have the right person for the job and spend enough money. I don't think it can be done safely for a few hundred dollars, I would think several thousand dollars at a minimum would be needed to do it properly. 
    I noted that in your post. I have no idea. I have read of Jeeps being done very easily, but, I believe the JEEP 4WD system isn't as complex....it is either on or off....not working all the time to send signals to the wheels.
    I am sure it can be done for a price....he wouldn't have done it if it cost $1000s I don't think, although, with him, anything saved is money saved in his mind....even if it costs more down the road or if it leaves the car unsafe to drive.

    4WD systems tend to be easier because in most cases (maybe all) it's the driver who decides if it's going on 2 WD or 4WD. Most systems have a 3 way selection of 2WD/4WD/4WD low. Since the vehicle can be driven strictly in 2WD mode its easier to convert it to 2WD. 

    That explains it nicely, thanx.

    Speaking of 4WD i would love to see Chrysler bring back the original Eagle, a 4WD sedan and a 4 WD wagon with a higher than normal road clearance. Those cars were years ahead of their time. 

    Yes, way ahead of their times. The Eagle was originally made by American Motors. That company was acquired by Chrysler in 1987, primarily to get their hands on the Eagle and its 4WD system. It was carried on as the Eagle for a few years by Chrysler.

    2013 LX 570 2016 LS 460

  • iluvmysephia1iluvmysephia1 Member Posts: 7,709
    edited October 2017

    2017 Subaru Impreza

    The Impreza has the same width as my 2011 Kia Soul and it's wheelbase is only 4" more. 

    The turning radius of the Soul is 17'2". The turning radius of the 2017 Subaru Impreza is 17'7".

    The Impreza is stretched longer at 182" to the Kia Soul's 162".

    Just enjoying looking at some specs of both cars - the chassis is the new "world build" chassis that Subaru is going to plop their entire 
    lineup on eventually.

    2021 Kia Soul LX 6-speed stick

  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,435
    did you drive one yet?

    ILuv, I think your attention wanders more than mine with the flavor of the moment (and that is a lot of wandering!)

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • iluvmysephia1iluvmysephia1 Member Posts: 7,709
    edited October 2017

    2017 Subaru Impreza

    I just love to explore my options, stick. It's good to have a solid, reliable car in the 2011 Kia Soul to fall back on.

    2021 Kia Soul LX 6-speed stick

  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,435
    having a car does take the pressure off. In 5 weeks, that would mean for me borrowing my wife's car!

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • iluvmysephia1iluvmysephia1 Member Posts: 7,709
    Are you turning a leased car in, stick?

    2021 Kia Soul LX 6-speed stick

  • ab348ab348 Member Posts: 20,316
    houdini1 said:


    Well, I think we pay $99. a year, so $79. CDN is not that bad. Maybe there is an option for a few more bucks to get music.

    Nope. No idea why.

    https://www.amazon.ca/gp/prime/pipeline/landing?ie=UTF8&ref_=footer_prime

    2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6

  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,435

    Are you turning a leased car in, stick?

    yes, unless I decide to extend it on a month to month basis, my car goes back 11/8. I plan to turn it in at that time, and figure out what to do next after that.

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • oldfarmer50oldfarmer50 Member Posts: 24,237


    2017 Subaru Impreza hatch and sedan

    These new Subaru Impreza's are really quite...impressive. I know, but I just couldn't resist. They have a curb weight of 2,964 lbs. which seems a titch heavy but really isn't. When you consider what's riding on your tires. For a longer, wider Subaru Impreza, you're gonna want some weight to hold the car on the road when you lean back down in and straighten your Impreza out for the long haul on the straightaways ahead.

    Get out there and drive. I saw a black sedan and couldn't identify it. That's what got me looking in to what I saw that night. It was dark out and I couldn't make out the lines of the automobile. I thought Subaru because of it's body brand identity. It showed even in the side view at night. It was either a 2017 or 2018 Subaru Impreza. The underpinnings of the Impreza will now in the future be the underpinnings of each and every Subaru model. Including the CrossTrek.

    Every model of Impreza gets a rear view camera and Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, which is a great thing to have. And symmetrical AWD, of course. After all, it's a Subaru. Get out and drive. All 2017 and/on Subaru Impreza models are assembled in Lafayette, Indiana.

    2017 Subaru Impreza engine specs

    2.0L 1995cc 4 cylinder, engine code FB20
    Horizontally Opposed Boxer design
    DOHC with timing chain (not a belt)
    16 valve- dual active valve control system (DAVCS)
    new for 2017 Sequential direct fuel injection
    Dual Active Value Control System DAVCS
    Bore x Stroke 3.31" x 3.54" (84mmx90mm)
    new for 2017 Compression 12.5:1
    Composite intake manifold
    new for 2017 Composite valve covers
    new for 2017 Active grill shutter (Sport and Limited models only)
    Redline- 6600 RPM

    I like that the 2017 Subaru Impreza is built with a timing chain, not a timing belt. I have bad memories of a certain 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer GTS in automatic CVT transmission and Rally Red breaking a serpentine belt on the way to El Paso that fateful sunny day. The design was such that it caused the engine to seize up completely. Boy, the graphic on the information screen was really impressive, if not cryptic. Right after my accelerator went all the way down to the floor and I floated over to the side of Highway 54 south to El Paso, a weird graphic showed up on the screen showing a battery turning over and over again at all angles. I looked over at my wife and all I could say was "What going on here?" I called for a tow and the rest is history. Mitsubishi Corporate refused to play smart and grant us some kind of a engine part post-mortem rebate check of some kind. They lost me as a repeat new car customer after their attitude regarding that event.

    The 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer GTS had a timing belt, not surprising, considering what happened to ours. Looking forward to a better overall ownership experience with Subaru. BTW - apparently liberal War-shing-tonians love Subaru's. I didn't know that till I moved back to War-shing-ton. Man, there's Subaru's all over here. Gonna head over ta Wal*Mart and bring our garbage can back for a refund that we thought we needed at the rental here plus a part for my desktop that I don't need, either, because I found a pull-down that had "Wifi 2" on it. I couldn't connect to the wifi upstairs, even though my Motorola moto G4 was fully connected up and working fine. So I bought a wireless wifi extender and planned to connect it to my desktop today. Well, last night I sat down to my desktop and decided to check out my wifi settings a bit closer. I found a pulldown arrow and clicked on it. It said "wifi 2" and I let up on it. I clicked "connect" and Voila! It works! Yeah!

    Hopefully the Seahawk's will solve some of their problems and pick up win number 2 today against IND. Let's rumble.

    When timing belts are changed on time they are rarely a problem.

    Most cars now call for a timing belt change around 100,000 miles. To me that isn't a big deal. Chains can cause troubles too!
    My Eclipse said change the belt at 60k, the stinky PT say 104k but I bet it will be a pile of rust by then.

    2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    OF, howcome you don't like the PT? Give us a review.
    I had a rental once....thought it had some good points...not enough to buy one though.
    Liked the high upright seats, liked the room especially all the room in the back. Steering was OK, but, that is about it. I felt like a mobster guy driving it. :s

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • fordfoolfordfool Member Posts: 240
    There was a story about digital billboards in today’s (10/1) Buffalo News. A camera picks up
    your car and plate number, identifies the car’s make and model, identifies you and your address
    through the plate number, and tailors the billboard ad to the type of person that drives that type
    of car living where you do.

    Most states are only too happy to sell the plate info. Big brother is watching and trying to sell
    you something. http://www.pressreader.com/usa/the-buffalo-news/20171001/281556586026807
  • oldfarmer50oldfarmer50 Member Posts: 24,237
    P
    driver100 said:

    OF, howcome you don't like the PT? Give us a review.
    I had a rental once....thought it had some good points...not enough to buy one though.
    Liked the high upright seats, liked the room especially all the room in the back. Steering was OK, but, that is about it. I felt like a mobster guy driving it. :s

    I don't really dislike it, we knew it was not the best technology when we bought it but the build quality has been disappointing. Warped rotors on a regular basis. Suspension bushings wearing out. Disappointing gas milage (the Mustang does better). The worst is that it's starting to rust at 38k miles.

    On the positive side it has great visability and handles pretty well. It's geared low which makes it zippy up to 45. Nice little supermarket cruiser. We bought it because wife thought it was cute and seating height made it easy for her to get in and out.


    2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible

  • ventureventure Member Posts: 3,170


    2017 Subaru Impreza

    I just love to explore my options, stick. It's good to have a solid, reliable car in the 2011 Kia Soul to fall back on.

    If you do decide to pursue an Impreza, check the 2018's too. Almost the same price and dealers will negotiate.

    2025 Forester Limited, 2024 Subaru Legacy Sport

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594

    P

    driver100 said:

    OF, howcome you don't like the PT? Give us a review.
    I had a rental once....thought it had some good points...not enough to buy one though.
    Liked the high upright seats, liked the room especially all the room in the back. Steering was OK, but, that is about it. I felt like a mobster guy driving it. :s

    I don't really dislike it, we knew it was not the best technology when we bought it but the build quality has been disappointing. Warped rotors on a regular basis. Suspension bushings wearing out. Disappointing gas milage (the Mustang does better). The worst is that it's starting to rust at 38k miles.

    On the positive side it has great visability and handles pretty well. It's geared low which makes it zippy up to 45. Nice little supermarket cruiser. We bought it because wife thought it was cute and seating height made it easy for her to get in and out.


    That would be similar to my impressions, though on a rental I didn't get an opinion on build quality. I did like the high seating and the large storage space...really like a wagon. Chrysler was never great at quality control....except maybe those old slant 6 engines.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • ab348ab348 Member Posts: 20,316
    I had a rental PT Cruiser one time and hated it. I couldn't tell you one thing I liked about it. It was a big disappointment as I actually was looking forward to driving it when the agent told me what he was giving me. When I returned it at the end he asked me how I liked it and I told him "not much". He said a lot of people said that, and it seemed they were either a love it or hate it type of vehicle.

    2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6

  • ab348ab348 Member Posts: 20,316
    This was news to me: Subaru is introducing a large 3-row crossover, be be built in its Indiana plant.

    http://www.autoverdict.com/suburu/subaru-plant-prepares-for-ascent/

    2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6

  • cdnpinheadcdnpinhead Member Posts: 5,618
    I haven't driven a PT Cruiser since August of '04, when I put ~1300 miles on one driving around New England and Quebec. I enjoyed the drive, but the car was pretty so-so. Nothing broke and everything worked, which is my minimum standard for a corporate rental.
    '08 Acura TSX, '17 Subaru Forester
  • Mr_ShiftrightMr_Shiftright Member Posts: 64,481


    driver100 said:


    driver100 said:the


    driver100 said:


    driver100 said:

     I have that question that I wanted a mechanic to answer.....Could it be unsafe making an AWD BMW X3 into a 2WD car? I got some good answers here but I would like a mechanic to explain whether it can be done safely and the reasons. 

    I am not a mechanic but I will say that it can be done safely if you have a mechanic that has the skills to do it and you don't skimp on the funds. The next question is why do it and is it worth it?
    He did it because the dealer wanted $8000 to fix the car. He got a dodgy mechanic to fix the car for a few $100s, by changing it to 2WD. It just sounds like it is asking for trouble, but, I can't get a definitive answer as to how. I hadn't thought of it but maybe I can write to BMW....I will see if that is possible.

    It is possible....I sent BMW the question....see when and IF they get back!

    Remember I said it could be done safely if you have the right person for the job and spend enough money. I don't think it can be done safely for a few hundred dollars, I would think several thousand dollars at a minimum would be needed to do it properly. 
    I noted that in your post. I have no idea. I have read of Jeeps being done very easily, but, I believe the JEEP 4WD system isn't as complex....it is either on or off....not working all the time to send signals to the wheels.
    I am sure it can be done for a price....he wouldn't have done it if it cost $1000s I don't think, although, with him, anything saved is money saved in his mind....even if it costs more down the road or if it leaves the car unsafe to drive.

    4WD systems tend to be easier because in most cases (maybe all) it's the driver who decides if it's going on 2 WD or 4WD. Most systems have a 3 way selection of 2WD/4WD/4WD low. Since the vehicle can be driven strictly in 2WD mode its easier to convert it to 2WD. 

    That explains it nicely, thanx.

    Speaking of 4WD i would love to see Chrysler bring back the original Eagle, a 4WD sedan and a 4 WD wagon with a higher than normal road clearance. Those cars were years ahead of their time. 

    Yes, fair enough but frankly they were awful cars to drive. Gutless, terrible ride. That's why they didn't sell.
  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    I got back my email from BMW head office.


    Thank you for contacting BMW Canada. We appreciate your inquiry.

    Please be advised that for all technical information and assistance, we recommend speaking with the service department of your local BMW retailer. We assure you that our BMW field representatives are trained at the highest level to properly diagnose and repair our vehicles. As such, they are in the best position to assist you with any technical support.

    While our representatives are here to assist you, please be advised that we do not have technically trained representatives within our corporate office. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.


    I may write to the service department....but, I don't know if they would give out information for FREE. I imagine it will be, bring it in and we'll let you know.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • ab348ab348 Member Posts: 20,316
    I seriously doubt if anyone from the manufacturer is going to give any answer on how to defeat a factory drive system. Especially BMW.

    2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6

  • Mr_ShiftrightMr_Shiftright Member Posts: 64,481
    I think the definitive answer probably lies with a BMW Indy shop---they see the weirdest things.
  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    I thought the same.....bmw isn't going to recommend it. I doubt if the indie shop will give a real answer....no one wants to get sued by saying sit is fine....go ahead and do it.
    Hard to get a definitive answer!

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 18,352
    driver100 said:

    I got back my email from BMW head office.


    Thank you for contacting BMW Canada. We appreciate your inquiry.

    Please be advised that for all technical information and assistance, we recommend speaking with the service department of your local BMW retailer. We assure you that our BMW field representatives are trained at the highest level to properly diagnose and repair our vehicles. As such, they are in the best position to assist you with any technical support.

    While our representatives are here to assist you, please be advised that we do not have technically trained representatives within our corporate office. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.


    I may write to the service department....but, I don't know if they would give out information for FREE. I imagine it will be, bring it in and we'll let you know.

    As I mentioned previously, I talked with one of the best SAs at my dealership; he-like me-thought disabling the front diff was an incompetent hack job.
    What do you think another service department will tell you?

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
    Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
    Son's: 2018 330i xDrive

This discussion has been closed.