Edmunds Members - Cars and Conversations (Archived)

28firefighter

GG, that is a crazy story.  Unfortunate that it happened, but glad they are treating you right and taking care of it. 

mako1a

They had a VSport that was mighty tempting. It was another several $1,000 bills, though.

CTS-V is the "bad boy". You can wave bye bye to any Mustang on the road including El Hefe with that one. But I think they only come in 2 door. BTW, wasn't your CTS a 2015?

Michaell

mako1a said:

They had a VSport that was mighty tempting. It was another several $1,000 bills, though.

CTS-V is the "bad boy". You can wave bye bye to any Mustang on the road including El Hefe with that one. But I think they only come in 2 door. BTW, wasn't your CTS a 2015?

No, the Vsport is different than the CTS-V. The -V had the supercharged V8 engine; the VSport has the twin turbo V6.

driver100

oldfarmer50 said:

Just thinking.

Could one if you Florida guys adopt me?

Sorry OF, my S-I-L kind of ruined your chances of that happening.

graphicguy

mako1a said:

They had a VSport that was mighty tempting. It was another several $1,000 bills, though.

CTS-V is the "bad boy". You can wave bye bye to any Mustang on the road including El Hefe with that one. But I think they only come in 2 door. BTW, wasn't your CTS a 2015?

Mako....'15s weren't out yet when I originally bought mine. They are now, though. I'm not one to look to screw anyone over. I know it's a model year ahead. but aside from a slight grill change and some added internet features (who cares), the '14 and '15 are identical. Same goes for the ATS, I believe (except for the new ATS coupe).

CTS coupe, in and out, are the previous gen style and platform, as are the CTS V versions.

Don't quote me on this, but I think the CTS V "Sport", on the new platform, is the one with the blown V6.

I talked to the dealer this a.m. and asked what would happen if I just wanted to scuttle the Caddy and get my money back. Obviously, they said they didn't want to do that, but would if that's what I wanted to do.

I liked the Caddy before. Like one that works well even more. They've gone above and beyond for me.

They said to drive the new one another day or two to make sure it's all sorted out. There is a significant difference in the suspension of the new one vs the old one (read it's better). This one's tighter, more planted, rides and handles better, which is saying something.

I'm still curious about what happened with the old one's control arm. I'll see if they'll tell me.

driver100

graphicguy said:

mako1a said:

They had a VSport that was mighty tempting. It was another several $1,000 bills, though.

CTS-V is the "bad boy". You can wave bye bye to any Mustang on the road including El Hefe with that one. But I think they only come in 2 door. BTW, wasn't your CTS a 2015?

They said to drive the new one another day or two to make sure it's all sorted out. There is a significant difference in the suspension of the new one vs the old one (read it's better). This one's tighter, more planted, rides and handles better, which is saying something.

I'm still curious about what happened with the old one's control arm. I'll see if they'll tell me.

They have been extremely fair with you GG. You have lots of good options, but, only you can decide. Since 14s may be in short supply you may just ask if they can substitute a 15, even for a bit more.

Let us know if they tell you more....I am surprised they have told you this much.

I still think when you buy a new car there are certain guarantees expressed or implied. If you get a car that was in an accident or which wasn't loaded on the truck right then they probably know you can sue for all the things they are offering....that's the only thing I can think of. Though, I guess it could be out of the goodness of their hearts.............

graphicguy

driver100 said:

graphicguy said:

mako1a said:

They had a VSport that was mighty tempting. It was another several $1,000 bills, though.

CTS-V is the "bad boy". You can wave bye bye to any Mustang on the road including El Hefe with that one. But I think they only come in 2 door. BTW, wasn't your CTS a 2015?

They said to drive the new one another day or two to make sure it's all sorted out. There is a significant difference in the suspension of the new one vs the old one (read it's better). This one's tighter, more planted, rides and handles better, which is saying something.

I'm still curious about what happened with the old one's control arm. I'll see if they'll tell me.

They have been extremely fair with you GG. You have lots of good options, but, only you can decide. Since 14s may be in short supply you may just ask if they can substitute a 15, even for a bit more.

Let us know if they tell you more....I am surprised they have told you this much.

I still think when you buy a new car there are certain guarantees expressed or implied. If you get a car that was in an accident or which wasn't loaded on the truck right then they probably know you can sue for all the things they are offering....that's the only thing I can think of. Though, I guess it could be out of the goodness of their hearts.............

Will keep you updated.

While I don't know for certain, my opinion is it wasn't a manufacturing problem. It wasn't a failed part problem. I think someone, be it the transporter, or maybe even a lot guy, who ran over something substantial. Maybe unloading it, maybe hitting a speed bump fast, maybe hitting debris. But, it's pretty hard to bend a control arm. And, it's pretty obvious if one is "bad".

The skeptic in me tells me there's more damage than they're telling me, given their readiness to just swap the car out. On the other hand, that I only noticed some groans and steering anomalies, tells me perhaps it could be some sort of part/manufacturing hiccup.

Who knows?

I told the dealer that I'd have some time to hook up tomorrow. Will let you know how this goes.

mako1a

GG, are you thinking like I am? Maybe get out of the Caddy and go with the E400. Make it a triple for MB. This board could become high end except for a few Mustangs (q,explorer, myself) and a junkyard courtesy oldfarmer.

roadburner

graphicguy said:

driver100 said:

graphicguy said:

mako1a said:

They had a VSport that was mighty tempting. It was another several $1,000 bills, though.

CTS-V is the "bad boy". You can wave bye bye to any Mustang on the road including El Hefe with that one. But I think they only come in 2 door. BTW, wasn't your CTS a 2015?

They said to drive the new one another day or two to make sure it's all sorted out. There is a significant difference in the suspension of the new one vs the old one (read it's better). This one's tighter, more planted, rides and handles better, which is saying something.

I'm still curious about what happened with the old one's control arm. I'll see if they'll tell me.

They have been extremely fair with you GG. You have lots of good options, but, only you can decide. Since 14s may be in short supply you may just ask if they can substitute a 15, even for a bit more.

Let us know if they tell you more....I am surprised they have told you this much.

I still think when you buy a new car there are certain guarantees expressed or implied. If you get a car that was in an accident or which wasn't loaded on the truck right then they probably know you can sue for all the things they are offering....that's the only thing I can think of. Though, I guess it could be out of the goodness of their hearts.............

Will keep you updated.

While I don't know for certain, my opinion is it wasn't a manufacturing problem. It wasn't a failed part problem. I think someone, be it the transporter, or maybe even a lot guy, who ran over something substantial. Maybe unloading it, maybe hitting a speed bump fast, maybe hitting debris. But, it's pretty hard to bend a control arm. And, it's pretty obvious if one is "bad".

The skeptic in me tells me there's more damage than they're telling me, given their readiness to just swap the car out. On the other hand, that I only noticed some groans and steering anomalies, tells me perhaps it could be some sort of part/manufacturing hiccup.

Who knows?

I told the dealer that I'd have some time to hook up tomorrow. Will let you know how this goes.

In any event, kudos to Cadillac for wanting to address the issue proactively. Many companies would deny there was a problem("they all do that") or attempt an incompetent piecemeal fix.

ab348

mako1a said:

GG, are you thinking like I am? Maybe get out of the Caddy and go with the E400. Make it a triple for MB. This board could become high end except for a few Mustangs (q,explorer, myself) and a junkyard courtesy oldfarmer.

Why would he do that? Given Mike's experience with his E400 order, GG might think he is getting one set of equipment and be sold another. Although maybe they could sell him Mike's rejected car for cheap.

graphicguy

mako1a said:

GG, are you thinking like I am? Maybe get out of the Caddy and go with the E400. Make it a triple for MB. This board could become high end except for a few Mustangs (q,explorer, myself) and a junkyard courtesy oldfarmer.

Mako....nothing against Benz's. I know Driver loves his, and Mike has had quote a few (maybe the end of the line for his ownership?).

After helping my sister buy a new Mercedes and having tested more than a few, they just aren't my cup of tea. I like more sport with my luxury. That's a personal thing, though. If I wanted more lux over sport, my decision might be different. That's why there are so many brands, and so many models. There's something for everyone.

Speaking of luxury, I spent a little bit of time in a new Escalade as a loaner. If anyone thought that ostentatiousness and opulence were dead in the automotive landscape, go drive an Escalade.

Cadillac seems to have taken everything from the previous Escalade, multiplied it by 5, and made the new one.

Being familiar with the old Escalade platform since I owned a Tahoe several years ago, the ride quality and handling were impressive for such a big, heavy vehicle. This isn't sports sedan territory by any means. But, compared to other vehicles of the same weight and size, Tahoe/Suburban/Escalade, and whatever GMC calls their full size SUV, are probably up there in most categories of driving dynamics.

The new Escalade is that, and more. You won't think you're in something smaller. It doesn't apologize for that, either.

I'm trying to think of an option I'd want in a vehicle that the Escalade doesn't have. Really, I can't.

My CTS has real wood, real aluminum, real chrome, real suede, real leather, mood lighting, etc. The Escalade has all that, but in much larger quantities.

It actually has a "sport mode" which tightens up the steering and suspension. the suspension is worlds better than in my Tahoe. I didn't think anything could ride better than the Tahoe. Wrong....the Escalade does....in spades.

I wouldn't mind putting the seats in my home theater. They're that good.

Big screen in the back seat,,,,,but it plays Blu Rays, not just DVDs. And, it came with wireless headphones.

It really is a stop gap between an RV and a luxury coach. If Cadillac put in a sink, a mini-stove, and a mini bathroom, you could live in it, pretty luxuriously.

Here's the kicker.....MSRP 85,000. With all the engine management software, cylinder deactivation, etc., I bet 14 MPG is what you would average.

For that kind of jack, I'd be in a 750 or a 6 Series Grand Coupe. Maybe jump into an A8 (if Audi could ever get their customer service act together).

For even less money you could get a Maserati Ghibli or LD's favorite, a Jaguar XJ or XE sport.

Frankly, I don't know who might want an $85k Escalade. But, my dealer can't keep them in stock. Go figure.

jayrider

Frankly, I don't know who might want an $85k Escalade. But, my dealer can't keep them in stock. Go figure.

Well, they ride nice.

robr2

graphicguy said:

Frankly, I don't know who might want an $85k Escalade. But, my dealer can't keep them in stock. Go figure.

We may not know anyone but there are lots of folks buying them. The only person I know that buys them new does so through his company and he probably takes advantage of IRS Section 179 to take advantage of the tax deduction.

The people who want the are:

Someone who wants luxury and the ability to haul 8 passengers and their gear or a horse trailer or a high end glamping trailer.

Someone who wants and alternative to a Range Rover (base price $84K), a Lexus LX (base price $83K) or an MB GL (base price $115K).

Someone who wants to make a statement which could be done with an S or a 7 but they don't want to make that statement.

We can all laugh at the Escalade but they outsell the above 3 vehicles combined and GM makes a ton on each one.

oldfarmer50

graphicguy said:

driver100 said:

graphicguy said:

mako1a said:

They had a VSport that was mighty tempting. It was another several $1,000 bills, though.

CTS-V is the "bad boy". You can wave bye bye to any Mustang on the road including El Hefe with that one. But I think they only come in 2 door. BTW, wasn't your CTS a 2015?

They said to drive the new one another day or two to make sure it's all sorted out. There is a significant difference in the suspension of the new one vs the old one (read it's better). This one's tighter, more planted, rides and handles better, which is saying something.

I'm still curious about what happened with the old one's control arm. I'll see if they'll tell me.

They have been extremely fair with you GG. You have lots of good options, but, only you can decide. Since 14s may be in short supply you may just ask if they can substitute a 15, even for a bit more.

Let us know if they tell you more....I am surprised they have told you this much.

I still think when you buy a new car there are certain guarantees expressed or implied. If you get a car that was in an accident or which wasn't loaded on the truck right then they probably know you can sue for all the things they are offering....that's the only thing I can think of. Though, I guess it could be out of the goodness of their hearts.............

Will keep you updated.

While I don't know for certain, my opinion is it wasn't a manufacturing problem. It wasn't a failed part problem. I think someone, be it the transporter, or maybe even a lot guy, who ran over something substantial. Maybe unloading it, maybe hitting a speed bump fast, maybe hitting debris. But, it's pretty hard to bend a control arm. And, it's pretty obvious if one is "bad".

The skeptic in me tells me there's more damage than they're telling me, given their readiness to just swap the car out. On the other hand, that I only noticed some groans and steering anomalies, tells me perhaps it could be some sort of part/manufacturing hiccup.

Who knows?

I told the dealer that I'd have some time to hook up tomorrow. Will let you know how this goes.

I think your instincts are correct. Damage in transit sounds possible. Someone could have driven it over an obstruction and bent something that went unreported.

Years ago my son drove my Concorde over something and bent the K frame. The result was that the car pulled to the right so severely you could take your hands off the wheel and do circles in the driveway. He never would tell me what he ran over. Must have been a bunch of gravestones.

graphicguy

oldfarmer50 said:

graphicguy said:

driver100 said:

graphicguy said:

mako1a said:

They had a VSport that was mighty tempting. It was another several $1,000 bills, though.

CTS-V is the "bad boy". You can wave bye bye to any Mustang on the road including El Hefe with that one. But I think they only come in 2 door. BTW, wasn't your CTS a 2015?

They said to drive the new one another day or two to make sure it's all sorted out. There is a significant difference in the suspension of the new one vs the old one (read it's better). This one's tighter, more planted, rides and handles better, which is saying something.

I'm still curious about what happened with the old one's control arm. I'll see if they'll tell me.

They have been extremely fair with you GG. You have lots of good options, but, only you can decide. Since 14s may be in short supply you may just ask if they can substitute a 15, even for a bit more.

Let us know if they tell you more....I am surprised they have told you this much.

I still think when you buy a new car there are certain guarantees expressed or implied. If you get a car that was in an accident or which wasn't loaded on the truck right then they probably know you can sue for all the things they are offering....that's the only thing I can think of. Though, I guess it could be out of the goodness of their hearts.............

Will keep you updated.

While I don't know for certain, my opinion is it wasn't a manufacturing problem. It wasn't a failed part problem. I think someone, be it the transporter, or maybe even a lot guy, who ran over something substantial. Maybe unloading it, maybe hitting a speed bump fast, maybe hitting debris. But, it's pretty hard to bend a control arm. And, it's pretty obvious if one is "bad".

The skeptic in me tells me there's more damage than they're telling me, given their readiness to just swap the car out. On the other hand, that I only noticed some groans and steering anomalies, tells me perhaps it could be some sort of part/manufacturing hiccup.

Who knows?

I told the dealer that I'd have some time to hook up tomorrow. Will let you know how this goes.

I think your instincts are correct. Damage in transit sounds possible. Someone could have driven it over an obstruction and bent something that went unreported.

Years ago my son drove my Concorde over something and bent the K frame. The result was that the car pulled to the right so severely you could take your hands off the wheel and do circles in the driveway. He never would tell me what he ran over. Must have been a bunch of gravestones.

OF...agree. But, I was also surprised they didn't come back with "WHAT DID YOU HIT?"

Maybe just accept the fact they're doing the right thing and be happy about it.

ab348

graphicguy said:

OF...agree. But, I was also surprised they didn't come back with "WHAT DID YOU HIT?"

Maybe just accept the fact they're doing the right thing and be happy about it.

Yes, I would have expected that also. Usually that is the comeback. I remember years ago buying a defective lawnmower on a Saturday morning, trying to use it and having it fail, and bringing it back to the store that afternoon. That line is exactly what they said.

GG, between this experience and the JD lawn tractor barbecue, you seem to have a strange mix of bad and good luck. Bad things happen, but the manufacturers/dealers are very good to you when that occurs.

driver100

ab348 said:

graphicguy said:

OF...agree. But, I was also surprised they didn't come back with "WHAT DID YOU HIT?"

Maybe just accept the fact they're doing the right thing and be happy about it.

Yes, I would have expected that also. Usually that is the comeback. I remember years ago buying a defective lawnmower on a Saturday morning, trying to use it and having it fail, and bringing it back to the store that afternoon. That line is exactly what they said.

GG, between this experience and the JD lawn tractor barbecue, you seem to have a strange mix of bad and good luck. Bad things happen, but the manufacturers/dealers are very good to you when that occurs.

Yeh, talk about making lemonade from lemons. He must have a very honest face. I always say, prepare for the worst case scenario, because that is probably what will happen. GG has things happen to cars and tractors and he comes out unscathed.

Nothing wrong with that....it's a good thing!

I'm still waiting for the cable guy. If it is a cable box problem that would be good, it's a rental so they should replace it. If it is the Vizio TV, it has a one year warranty still on it - though if Vizio is like Audi they will say it was a maintenance issue and our fault, though that would seem almost impossible. GG should offer his services, but products for people, if they fail he gets them a new one.

btw...just noticed the Passat is 2 years old and has 4000 miles on it....2000 miles a year! It would cost less to take a cab when we want to go somewhere.

About Escalades. IMO, buyers really want or need an SUV, but, they have the bucks to buy something luxurious......so, they are more than happy to spend the bucks to get a luxury high priced SUV. Also good as working vehicles but also good for impressing clients etc.

imidazol97

oldfarmer50 said:

ult was that the car pulled to the right so severely you could take your hands off the wheel and do circles in the driveway. He never would tell me what he ran over. Must have been a bunch of gravestones.

I can't find a link to the article, but a Mercedes did drive into a graveyard adjacent to a road in a small town in the area. She knocked over several tombstones and ran over a few. Happened early in morning, like dawn. Didn't seem liquor was a factor. Mercedes looked pretty bad.

venture

driver100 said:

ab348 said:

graphicguy said:

OF...agree. But, I was also surprised they didn't come back with "WHAT DID YOU HIT?"

Maybe just accept the fact they're doing the right thing and be happy about it.

Yes, I would have expected that also. Usually that is the comeback. I remember years ago buying a defective lawnmower on a Saturday morning, trying to use it and having it fail, and bringing it back to the store that afternoon. That line is exactly what they said.

GG, between this experience and the JD lawn tractor barbecue, you seem to have a strange mix of bad and good luck. Bad things happen, but the manufacturers/dealers are very good to you when that occurs.

Yeh, talk about making lemonade from lemons. He must have a very honest face. I always say, prepare for the worst case scenario, because that is probably what will happen. GG has things happen to cars and tractors and he comes out unscathed.

Nothing wrong with that....it's a good thing!

I'm still waiting for the cable guy. If it is a cable box problem that would be good, it's a rental so they should replace it. If it is the Vizio TV, it has a one year warranty still on it - though if Vizio is like Audi they will say it was a maintenance issue and our fault, though that would seem almost impossible. GG should offer his services, but products for people, if they fail he gets them a new one.

btw...just noticed the Passat is 2 years old and has 4000 miles on it....2000 miles a year! It would cost less to take a cab when we want to go somewhere.

About Escalades. IMO, buyers really want or need an SUV, but, they have the bucks to buy something luxurious......so, they are more than happy to spend the bucks to get a luxury high priced SUV. Also good as working vehicles but also good for impressing clients etc.

I've often wondered why people buy an Escalade too. There are a few in my neighborhood, among all the Mercedes, BMW's and Audis, and the occasional Jag. One lady drops her kids off at the bus stop near my house. I've watched her try to turn around in my driveway to go back home numerous times. She always aborts the attempt and just drives around the block.

abacomike

Well, finally, my new car arrived at the dealership today.  The are going to put the new wheels and tires on the car tomorrow morning and we have an appointment to pick it up at 12:30 PM tomorrow.

venture

I haven't seen Mike all day. I wonder if he's out playing with his new car?

Edit: Never mind. There he is. You must type faster than I do Mike.

abacomike

venture said:

I haven't seen Mike all day. I wonder if he's out playing with his new car? Edit: Never mind. There he is. You must type faster than I do Mike.

I'm just psychic!

jayrider

Local mega dealer has " Below Zero Financing " I wasn't in the market for a new car but I'm tempted. You don't think this is a gimmick do you ?

abacomike

jayrider said:

Local mega dealer has " Below Zero Financing " I wasn't in the market for a new car but I'm tempted. You don't think this is a gimmick do you ?

How does one finance a car at a rate that is less than zero?  That would mean it would have to be a zero % APR with some rebate to the borrower.  I've heard of many gimmicks to attract buyers, but that's a new one for me.

ab348

"WE will pay YOU to buy this new car!!!"

Michaell

ab348 said:

"WE will pay YOU to buy this new car!!!"

No, that would be a selling price < $0

I suspect it's as abacomike says - 0% financing plus rebate. And some fancy word play to catch people's attention.

nelsonf

"OF...agree. But, I was also surprised they didn't come back with "WHAT DID YOU HIT?"

Maybe just accept the fact they're doing the right thing and be happy about it."

They must have seen something that led them to believe it was a defect issue.

Looking at it from the dealership's point of view, why wouldn't they assume that GG ran something over?

I think they are just covering Caddy's butt, which is good in this case. I'm glad they're not trying to pass the blame on to GG.

Nelson

oldfarmer50

venture said:

driver100 said:

ab348 said:

graphicguy said:

OF...agree. But, I was also surprised they didn't come back with "WHAT DID YOU HIT?"

Maybe just accept the fact they're doing the right thing and be happy about it.

Yes, I would have expected that also. Usually that is the comeback. I remember years ago buying a defective lawnmower on a Saturday morning, trying to use it and having it fail, and bringing it back to the store that afternoon. That line is exactly what they said.

GG, between this experience and the JD lawn tractor barbecue, you seem to have a strange mix of bad and good luck. Bad things happen, but the manufacturers/dealers are very good to you when that occurs.

Yeh, talk about making lemonade from lemons. He must have a very honest face. I always say, prepare for the worst case scenario, because that is probably what will happen. GG has things happen to cars and tractors and he comes out unscathed.

Nothing wrong with that....it's a good thing!

I'm still waiting for the cable guy. If it is a cable box problem that would be good, it's a rental so they should replace it. If it is the Vizio TV, it has a one year warranty still on it - though if Vizio is like Audi they will say it was a maintenance issue and our fault, though that would seem almost impossible. GG should offer his services, but products for people, if they fail he gets them a new one.

btw...just noticed the Passat is 2 years old and has 4000 miles on it....2000 miles a year! It would cost less to take a cab when we want to go somewhere.

About Escalades. IMO, buyers really want or need an SUV, but, they have the bucks to buy something luxurious......so, they are more than happy to spend the bucks to get a luxury high priced SUV. Also good as working vehicles but also good for impressing clients etc.

I've often wondered why people buy an Escalade too. There are a few in my neighborhood, among all the Mercedes, BMW's and Audis, and the occasional Jag. One lady drops her kids off at the bus stop near my house. I've watched her try to turn around in my driveway to go back home numerous times. She always aborts the attempt and just drives around the block.

Funny you mention that. One of my middle school bus stops has a young lady who always steps out of either an Escalade or a Porche Panamara as I pull up. Both black. Another family I wish would adopt me.

imidazol97

ab348 said:

"WE will pay YOU to buy this new car!!!"

I'm betting on a tremendous documentation fee added onto the purchase.

abacomike

@oldfarmer50‌ said:

"Funny you mention that. One of my middle school bus stops has a young lady who always steps out of either an Escalade or a Porche Panamara as I pull up. Both black. Another family I wish would adopt me."

OF, I really enjoy your posts and I would really like to meet you one day - I like people with a dry sense of humor.

When you mentioned that both the Porsche and the Escalade were black, did you catch a glimpse of the interiors?

stickguy

good news Mike. They really did get it in about as quick as possible and well before Christmas. Hope you like this one, and it lasts longer than GG's Caddy!

abacomike

stickguy said:

good news Mike. They really did get it in about as quick as possible and well before Christmas. Hope you like this one, and it lasts longer than GG's Caddy!

Even I don't switch cars that quickly.  I have a hunch that GG's Cadillac's front end was not damaged in transit.  Cadillac would not be taking back the car so quickly.  It's either bad parts or poor manufacturing.

They just don't want another recall.  I am willing to bet that there is or will be a service bulletin on that issue.

explorerx4

Since I got my new cable setup, I have a bunch of new channels I can watch.
Last night I watched a couple of episodes of some show called Car Matchmaker.
One episode, the 3 choices picked for the buyer were an Escalade, Explorer Sport, and Range Rover Sport. The guy ended up picking the Explorer.
Next episode the 3 choices were Audi A4, Lincoln MKZ, BMW 3 series.
All models were AWD. The guy ended up picking the Lincoln.
Part of the episode had Jerry Seinfeld. I have never big a fan of his, but he was great.
Relaxed and real, and really funny.
Overall, it made me wonder if the show is sponsored by Ford, although the host seemed disappointed in the final choices.
The transmission pump in my Explorer is whining more often, so I guess I have no choice but to look for something else. It needs a bunch of other stuff, too.
The major decision will be to drop a vehicle. If I do, I'll be driving the same vehicle all the time.

driver100

abacomike said:

Well, finally, my new car arrived at the dealership today.  The are going to put the new wheels and tires on the car tomorrow morning and we have an appointment to pick it up at 12:30 PM tomorrow.

Good luck...I hope it goes as smooth as possible for you. A MB CLS550 parked next to me yesterday, and it did look beautiful. But, when I see how little the windows are and how low the roofline is I think I would choose an E anytime. Comfort is more important than looks and spedd these days.

Hope you enjoy the ride home.

ab348

Under no circumstances can I see a person picking a MKZ over either an A4 or a 3 series. The Explorer instead of either of the others seems even more unbelievable Sounds fishy.

driver100

explorerx4 said:

One episode, the 3 choices picked for the buyer were an Escalade, Explorer Sport, and Range Rover Sport. The guy ended up picking the Explorer.
Next episode the 3 choices were Audi A4, Lincoln MKZ, BMW 3 series.
All models were AWD. The guy ended up picking the Lincoln.

I am surprised at choosing the Explorer over the Escalade or RR. But, I have never seen the MKZ praised in any article. Almost every article says it is a fancy Fusion and really shouldn't be pushed as a luxury brand at all. If people are choosing what they would choose based on their budget...it might make sense.

The program sounds like it would be fun to watch.

The cable company came and replaced the cable box....that was my problem. Thanks for the help guys.(TV would play for 10 minutes, then just be bright blue for 20 minutes).

abacomike

@driver100‌

Thanks driver.  Yes, the CLS is quite low and visibility is very limited.  If I didn't have such a problem with how low it is and the lack of headroom, I would keep the CLS.  Not only is it beautiful, but the power, handling and stability are the best I've ever experienced.

sda

Just now reading. Funny you should mention dings and scratches. My wife says she is glad the Pilot we bought almost a year ago had normal wear and tear, so she doesn't get uptight if it acquires new marks of love. She knows that I fret over that though I never say anything. I am good with scratch remover and touch up paint.

nyccarguy said:

Id also like to add the Pilot has its fair share of minor dings, scrapes, & scratches so I don't have to go through the "Neurotic, OCD, New Car Phase" when I get in the truck to drive it over the weekend and I see crumbs on the floor or a door ding and go nuts:)

roadburner

ab348 said:

Under no circumstances can I see a person picking a MKZ over either an A4 or a 3 series. The Explorer instead of either of the others seems even more unbelievable Sounds fishy.

I agree, or else the show should drug test the contestants. I'd take my 1999 Wrangler over a new Explorer or Pimpcalade- never mind a Range Rover...

oldfarmer50

abacomike said:

@oldfarmer50‌ said:

"Funny you mention that. One of my middle school bus stops has a young lady who always steps out of either an Escalade or a Porche Panamara as I pull up. Both black. Another family I wish would adopt me."

OF, I really enjoy your posts and I would really like to meet you one day - I like people with a dry sense of humor.

When you mentioned that both the Porsche and the Escalade were black, did you catch a glimpse of the interiors?

Not sure about the interiors but I'm guessing black as well. I'll try to see next time.

oldfarmer50

explorerx4 said:

Since I got my new cable setup, I have a bunch of new channels I can watch.
Last night I watched a couple of episodes of some show called Car Matchmaker.
One episode, the 3 choices picked for the buyer were an Escalade, Explorer Sport, and Range Rover Sport. The guy ended up picking the Explorer.
Next episode the 3 choices were Audi A4, Lincoln MKZ, BMW 3 series.
All models were AWD. The guy ended up picking the Lincoln.
Part of the episode had Jerry Seinfeld. I have never big a fan of his, but he was great.
Relaxed and real, and really funny.
Overall, it made me wonder if the show is sponsored by Ford, although the host seemed disappointed in the final choices.
The transmission pump in my Explorer is whining more often, so I guess I have no choice but to look for something else. It needs a bunch of other stuff, too.
The major decision will be to drop a vehicle. If I do, I'll be driving the same vehicle all the time.

How many miles on that bad boy? My old F-150 had over 200k when it started whining and it shifted fine until I got the fluid changed and all the accumulated sludge and metal particles freed up killing it on the spot.

driver100

Some great American cars and automobile related items in this 4 minute clip.
THE RON PRATTE COLLECTION

It will bring back some good memories, Shelby's, Mustangs, 57 Chevys................

driver100

roadburner said:

ab348 said:

Under no circumstances can I see a person picking a MKZ over either an A4 or a 3 series. The Explorer instead of either of the others seems even more unbelievable Sounds fishy.

I agree, or else the show should drug test the contestants. I'd take my 1999 Wrangler over a new Explorer or Pimpcalade- never mind a Range Rover...

Jerry Sienfeld is a comedian.....................

graphicguy

ab348 said:

graphicguy said:

OF...agree. But, I was also surprised they didn't come back with "WHAT DID YOU HIT?"

Maybe just accept the fact they're doing the right thing and be happy about it.

Yes, I would have expected that also. Usually that is the comeback. I remember years ago buying a defective lawnmower on a Saturday morning, trying to use it and having it fail, and bringing it back to the store that afternoon. That line is exactly what they said.

GG, between this experience and the JD lawn tractor barbecue, you seem to have a strange mix of bad and good luck. Bad things happen, but the manufacturers/dealers are very good to you when that occurs.

AB....I think it's just a matter of finding and doing business with companies that place a high value on customer service....easier said than done, sometimes. Doing business with Lowes instead of Sears, for example. Buying John Deere over MTD. Shopping Costco instead of Sam's Club, is another example.

My wife turned me on to Bed, Bath and Beyond for that very reason. They will exchange anything that's defective, regardless of the amount of time you have it, with or without a receipt. She loves their 20% off coupons, too.

Another example, what frustrated me reading about Toyota's alleged unintended acceleration issue with their Lexus and Toyotas was the fact that they felt denial was the first course of action, instead of cooperation. Regardless of the outcome, that was the initial impression that most heard from them.

Actually, the nudging I got from guys like you, imid and Richard here at Edmunds kind of paved the way for me to consider Cadillac, again. The dealership and the new products did the rest.

I was thinking last night, the busted up suspension could have been a result of someone going on a test drive, hitting something, and not telling the dealership. Although, you'd have to hit something pretty hard to bend a control arm. I guess it's possible to do that and not have any physical damage on the body be visible. But, wouldn't that show up during the pre-delivery inspection?

Mike....not sure I'll ever find out what the problem was, but the end result is what matters. I'm wondering if it did happen at the factory, there's no way the control arm, shocks, etc would have fit together if one or the other parts were not within spec. Right?

Talked with the dealer this a.m. I told him I'd accept the one I have now. He said no rush. Just give their business manager a call when I'm ready to come in and he'll have the paperwork ready...shouldn't take more than 5 minutes to transfer Vin. He said to make sure to bring title and the extra keys to the other one.

Sounds like a plan.

houdini1

graphicguy said:

driver100 said:

graphicguy said:

mako1a said:

They had a VSport that was mighty tempting. It was another several $1,000 bills, though.

CTS-V is the "bad boy". You can wave bye bye to any Mustang on the road including El Hefe with that one. But I think they only come in 2 door. BTW, wasn't your CTS a 2015?

They said to drive the new one another day or two to make sure it's all sorted out. There is a significant difference in the suspension of the new one vs the old one (read it's better). This one's tighter, more planted, rides and handles better, which is saying something.

I'm still curious about what happened with the old one's control arm. I'll see if they'll tell me.

They have been extremely fair with you GG. You have lots of good options, but, only you can decide. Since 14s may be in short supply you may just ask if they can substitute a 15, even for a bit more.

Let us know if they tell you more....I am surprised they have told you this much.

I still think when you buy a new car there are certain guarantees expressed or implied. If you get a car that was in an accident or which wasn't loaded on the truck right then they probably know you can sue for all the things they are offering....that's the only thing I can think of. Though, I guess it could be out of the goodness of their hearts.............

Will keep you updated.

While I don't know for certain, my opinion is it wasn't a manufacturing problem. It wasn't a failed part problem. I think someone, be it the transporter, or maybe even a lot guy, who ran over something substantial. Maybe unloading it, maybe hitting a speed bump fast, maybe hitting debris. But, it's pretty hard to bend a control arm. And, it's pretty obvious if one is "bad".

The skeptic in me tells me there's more damage than they're telling me, given their readiness to just swap the car out. On the other hand, that I only noticed some groans and steering anomalies, tells me perhaps it could be some sort of part/manufacturing hiccup.

Who knows?

I told the dealer that I'd have some time to hook up tomorrow. Will let you know how this goes.

If the damage was caused by rough use or an accident, that makes this whole thing even more astounding. I am shocked they didn't try to pin it on you.

graphicguy

nelsonf said:

"OF...agree. But, I was also surprised they didn't come back with "WHAT DID YOU HIT?"

Maybe just accept the fact they're doing the right thing and be happy about it."

They must have seen something that led them to believe it was a defect issue.

Looking at it from the dealership's point of view, why wouldn't they assume that GG ran something over?

I think they are just covering Caddy's butt, which is good in this case. I'm glad they're not trying to pass the blame on to GG.

Nelson

Thanks, Nelson. Lord knows I get blamed for plenty of other things. They could have just stood in line with all the rest of the "blamers".

imidazol97

graphicguy said:

I was thinking last night, the busted up suspension could have been a result of someone going on a test drive, hitting something, and not telling the dealership. Although, you'd have to hit something pretty hard to bend a control arm. I guess it's possible to do that and not have any physical damage on the body be visible. But, wouldn't that show up during the pre-delivery inspection?.

Hitting something hard enough to change dimensions on other strong parts of the structure would have bent the wheels and damaged the tires, in my thinking. There's a story here on why something is very wrong. If wrong parts were assembled, such as meant for a different model at the factory, the car would not have met alignment specs.

fezo

abacomike said:

I'm just psychic!

I knew you were going to say that

oldfarmer50

We were talking about pin stripes and vinyl roofs recently.

Today as my wife and I were exiting the eye center I saw what looked to be a fairly new Buick LaCrosse with both a vinyl roof AND a pin stripe.

Looked pretty bad.

imidazol97

oldfarmer50 said:

We were talking about pin stripes and vinyl roofs recently. Today as my wife and I were exiting the eye center I saw what looked to be a fairly new Buick LaCrosse with both a vinyl roof AND a pin stripe.

I would take it those items are a sign that the owners of the LaCrosse needed to be at the eye center for some new glasses.