@driver100 Regarding dashcams, there's a whole variety, so there is not necessarily one set way that they operate.
For example, if you want a mobile unit (e.g., can move it from one vehicle to another easily), then you probably want something that is GoPro" style, where it has its own battery that will run for hours on end and attaches to the vehicle with a suction cup. With these, you can (but are not required to) plug them into 12V in the car if you don't mind the cord.
You can get a more permanently attached unit, like a BlackVue, that mounts to the windshield next to the rearview mirror. These are nice because you cannot even see them from the driver's seat, and you can run the 12-volt line through the A-pillar, headliner, and down the rearview mirror's chase so that the cord is basically hidden as well. If you get a unit that also has rear camera integration, then you will need to run a second line from the rear to front camera through the headliner (this is the toughest part of the install, IMO).
As for getting the recordings off, most of them use SD cards to store the data, so you can pop that out, put it in a computer, and look at the videos. Some record in proprietary formats, but most use mp4 or some other "universal" format. The BlackVue I have also has built-in wi-fi, so you can link a mobile device to it and use their application to view the files directly from the device (without downloading), as well as to download specific files for later viewing.
Video length is adjustable on some as well; typical video length is one minute.
Also, if you hard-wire the unit to your car's electrical system, you can get management boxes that allow the camera to run while the vehicle is parked without allowing the camera to drain the battery too low. Again, lots of options... how far down this rabbit hole to you want to explore?!
But, hey, if you end up getting one, then you get to share videos like this!
Mike Berry is probably the absolute best at scambaiting, AKA: scamming the scammers; his website https://www.419eater.com/ is definitely worth a look. To quote another admirer of Mr. Berry,
Mike has persuaded “Nigerian princes” to copy the Lord of the Rings trilogy and most of the Harry Potter series by hand, just by saying that he works for a handwriting analysis company and pays $30 per handwritten page. He has convinced them to book international flights and expensive hotel rooms for important business meetings that didn’t exist. He has manipulated them into getting tattoos. He once made a scammer fall in love with him by impersonating Gillian Anderson online. He has even faked his own death while the horrified scammer listens on the phone.
However, just for the sheer petty nastiness of it, our favorite trick of his has to be the time he conned a 419 scammer into carving a Commodore 64 computer out of wood...
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
If this is your friend`s DUI and if he wasn't too abusive to the cop, he probably will be given a warning.
Showing up in court with a lawyer is perhaps not a good strategy. It says I'm guilty and i'm going to buy my way out of this predicament. Instead he should appear to be contrite and throw himself on the mercy of the court. If he is tearful and sincere in his plea he just might walk Scott free.
I'd have to disagree; he's close enough to the per se limit that a judge or prosecutor is unlikely to amend it down at his initial appearance. This isn't like going 20 over and asking for 10 over and traffic school.
200% agree. Hiring a lawyer for a DUI says you take it seriously, especially if a first time offense. He will not walk away on his own here unless he has an Attorney. Not these days. Every jurisdiction I have seen takes DUI very very seriously - both the enforcement process by Police and the convictions.
2025 Jetta GLI Autobahn, 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xE
I debated about posting this story all weekend, but since no names are involved, and it’s sorta driving related, I’m going to.
One of my best friends (I was Best Man at his wedding many, many years ago) called me at 5:00 a.m. Saturday morning. That has never happened before, particularly with my friend.
He had been picked up for suspicion of driving under the influence. I don’t know if he was drinking, or he wasn’t. But, he’s going through a nasty divorce and I told him a few times recently that drowning his sorrows in a bottle is not a good idea. Doing it and getting behind the wheel is an even worse idea.
He lives in a County just east of me. I’m not THAT familiar with the area, but they had put him, in what looked like to me, a highly secure trailer that they can move around. I guess they use these whenever they set up an checkpoint? Or, when they’re combing an area for DUI drivers?
I don’t know how the whole process works. I thought they took you to the nearest jail, and I don’t even now where that is. Apparently, there’s a different procedure for DUIs?
They picked him up at around 11:00 p.m. and didn’t release him until the next morning (ergo, the phone call I got).
Was he drunk? Didn’t seem like it to me, but I wasn’t with him at 11:00 p.m., either. He said they picked him up for crossing a yellow line. He said it was very dark and if he did cross the yellow line, it was just barely and in a split second. Again, I don’t know how all of this works. He argued with the arresting officer (bad move on his part). I guess he became somewhat defensive when the officer told him why he was pulled over and he would not cooperate with the officer who was trying to give him a field sobriety test.
From that point, I guess it became “assume the position”.
Lots of details I don’t have. I just took him straight home. I didn’t smell any alcohol, but I have not been trained to, either. He went into hiding Saturday and yesterday.
Finally reached him this a.m. He apologized profusely for getting me out of bed to pick him up (was irritated at the time, but what are friends for?). He said he had a beer with a burger at a bar/restaurant he went to listen to a band.
I dunno? Would they arrest you for drinking a beer? Two? Three? I’m thinking he had more than one. But, he’s 6’3”...230#-240#. It would take more than a beer (or even 2 or 3) to get him drunk....especially if he’d also had something to eat.
I don’t know if he took a breathalyzer or failed the physical tests, if he even acquiesced and did any of those tests?
Anyway, he told me he talked to his lawyer who saw the video from the police cam this a.m. He said that it was pretty skimpy evidence for pulling someone over for a DUI. He’s going to try to get the charges reduced. But, for the lawyer to even try? $3K....up front......that’s just for a plea, and not an actual trial. Plus, if guilty, fines and fees would match that. Then there’s the insurance pound of flesh.
As I told my friend, not only are you now going back and forth to court for your divorce, you’ll be going back and forth for what could be a DUI. He can’t wait for this year to be over.
In NY refusal of breath test is grounds for license suspension no matter what the other outcome. He may win the case but lose his license.
If this is your friend`s first DUI and if he wasn't too abusive to the cop, and had not taken any illicit drugs he probably will be given a warning.
Showing up in court with a lawyer is perhaps not a good strategy. It says I'm guilty and i'm going to buy my way out of this predicament. Instead he should appear to be contrite and throw himself on the mercy of the court. If he is tearful and sincere in his plea he just might walk Scott free.
I disagree. Intoxicated driving is taken very seriously these days almost to the point of vengeance. GG’s friend might get off with a drinking driver program but no one gets off scott free any more. Bring a lawyer.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
The lovely Mrs D. got a pop up ad on her computer that says some Toyota dealer will install a dash cam and/or a rear camera that can also record. What a great idea and what a worthwhile extra, much better than trying to sell mop n Glo or pinstripes.
I would really consider having one installed in the C250, probably a back camera too mainly for the back up camera alone. But, only one that is wired in, I don't want wires running around or have to plug it into cigarette lighter.
A few questions; Any idea how much to get a built in dash cam installed....and where do you go? Will they build a rear camera in and hide the wiring? How much would each cost for camera and installation? How do you watch what has been recorder?
(Guess I should ask if I cause the accident how do I destroy what is on it before the police get there?)
My wife got me a dashcam about a year and a half ago that records on micro SD and connects to a smart phone so you can download the videos directly and watch them right away on your phone. It was about $200 and it was a removable suction cup type which worked well for me as I switched cars at work all the time. The power cable hanging down was an annoyance though.
Just recently though the dash cam started losing memory (date would reset) and would shut off randomly. Doesn't work at all now which sucks. It's called Transcend drivepro. I expected a longer lifespan out of it.
The advantage of a removable dash cam is that you can switch between cars and take it off when parked. Otherwise even if it's hard wired it's another thing thieves can break your window for and steal out of your car.
I'm very surprised though that by now auto makers aren't offering them as a factory option, even on higher end vehicles considering most luxury cars are already equipped with an array of sensors and cameras everywhere. I noticed Lexus offers them as a dealer installed option, and our dealership offers aftermarket units as well but it would be more convenient to have one built in on the car with a slot in the dash for the micro SD card, or even an ability do download footage from the car directly to your smart phone via Bluetooth.
I really don’t want to be in my friend’s business right now, but he is sort of using me as his “crutch”. I’m there for him, if he wants me to be. He knows that.
But, not sure a crutch is what he needs. One day at a time is the approach I told him to take.
I’m thoroughly convinced he doesn’t have an alcohol (and certainly not a drug) problem. With the divorce, his whole life has changed, and he’s not handling it well. Won’t get into details, but his estranged wife has been verbally and mentally abusive towards him for years. But, he still loves her. I believed once she left (over his protestations), his life would get better. Just the opposite has happened.
It’s just a mess. We’re talking every day, which is something we’ve never done. If it helps, that’s good. I’m not a lawyer or a marriage counselor, though.
Anyway, he did secure the lawyer as I previously alluded to. The hope is that he’ll get the charges dismissed or, at the very least, reduced.
RB...his lawyer’s first line of defense has been exactly as you predicted. He’s attacking the validity and/or accuracy of the impairment test, as well as the entire reason my friend was detained in the first place.
Interestingly enough, my friend said the lawyer honed in on the fact that he doesn’t recall the arresting officer’s recitation of the Miranda rights. According to the attorney, it doesn’t appear on the officer’s dash cam, either. They don’t know if the officer was wearing a body cam, which would offer more eveindence, but apparently if there was, they have to turn it over to my friend’s lawyer. At the end of the day, it boils down to the officer’s word against my friend’s.
I think the camera system on the Tesla S can be used as a dashcam, but the quality isn't the highest. Blackvue now has a 4K HD model available. Mine is about 3 years old now and still running fine.
I bought an inexpensive (~$50) portable suction cup model on amazon a while back, to run in the fintail. It was fried about 10 seconds in - either defective, or the fintail's cigarette lighter has voltage issues. I got a refund anyway. I've tried using apps on my phone, but the images are unstable. If I ever upgrade the cam in the modern car, I might have the old one installed in the old car.
I'm very surprised though that by now auto makers aren't offering them as a factory option, even on higher end vehicles considering most luxury cars are already equipped with an array of sensors and cameras everywhere. I noticed Lexus offers them as a dealer installed option, and our dealership offers aftermarket units as well but it would be more convenient to have one built in on the car with a slot in the dash for the micro SD card, or even an ability do download footage from the car directly to your smart phone via Bluetooth.
Good point. I know my ATS has a camera behind the rearview mirror that is used by the rainsense wipers. Probably would not have taken much for them to upgrade that to full dashcam status.
@driver100 Regarding dashcams, there's a whole variety, so there is not necessarily one set way that they operate. Video length is adjustable on some as well; typical video length is one minute.
Thanks xwesx, I think I want one that is wired to battery. All good information. I take the car in for an oil change today, I will see if the indie Euro garage will install and what they say. Great info, much appreciated.
Boomcheck I'm very surprised though that by now auto makers aren't offering them as a factory option, even on higher end vehicles considering most luxury cars are already equipped with an array of sensors and cameras everywhere. I noticed Lexus offers them as a dealer installed option, and our dealership offers aftermarket units as well but it would be more convenient to have one built in on the car with a slot in the dash for the micro SD card, or even an ability do download footage from the car directly to your smart phone via Bluetooth.
Thanks for the info Boomer. I agree, it would make a great option for the car manufacturer to offer, and it could be nicely built in.
The lovely Mrs D. got a pop up ad on her computer that says some Toyota dealer will install a dash cam and/or a rear camera that can also record. What a great idea and what a worthwhile extra, much better than trying to sell mop n Glo or pinstripes.
I would really consider having one installed in the C250, probably a back camera too mainly for the back up camera alone. But, only one that is wired in, I don't want wires running around or have to plug it into cigarette lighter.
A few questions;
Any idea how much to get a built in dash cam installed....and where do you go?
Will they build a rear camera in and hide the wiring?
How much would each cost for camera and installation?
How do you watch what has been recorder?
(Guess I should ask if I cause the accident how do I destroy what is on it before the police get there?)
You can get a dash cam that you install yourself in Walmart for under $100. Most of them record for a long period or send data to your phone.
If you really want to go on the cheap there are apps for your phone that will work as a dash cam.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
A HS friend of mine will string along the IRS "collection" folks, and repost the conversations on Facebook. Here's one from a few weeks ago:
So, the IRS scammers are at it again. Had one on the phone for about 10 minutes. Talking about the taxes due and owing for (son's name). I told him my name was Robert Dewey, Esquire from the Law Offices of Dewey, Cheatem and Howe. And that I was representing my client.
Apparently (son) is a serial under reporter of income. Since the age of 8. He has underreported his income by over $250,000 (the little twerp, I knew it). But that they will “settle” the claim for $6,372.50. I asked if there was a discount if we brought cash to the settlement. That tossed him for a loop. He kept saying we cant take cash. So, I said “come on, lets say I pay you $4000 directly....Cash....you can make this go away, right?” He got real quiet and said “How can we do that?”, I said “I’ll meet you outside your building.” He had previously told me he was calling from the IRS office in downtown Baltimore (More like Mumbai). He said “My building?” I said “Yes, you told me you worked in the Baltimore office of the IRS”. And he confirmed that again. So I said “Your office at 31 Hopkins Plaza in Baltimore”. He then said “oh”. So I said “well, I could wire it to you”.
At this point he paused again. I said “I’ll wire it right now, all I need is your bank account number, The routing number, your date of birth, mothers maiden name, social security number and password to your online banking”
He then paused, and then he hung up.
I'll also note that said friend is a retired Assistant Director from the FBI, focusing on money laundering. The stories are hilarious.
Even if not true, it's well invented and funny enough to get a laugh.
I LOVE that idea. Hope it comes to my banks here shortly - I'd love to ditch the debit card. It is literally the only card I carry with me that is largely a direct link to cash and I almost never use it, only carrying it for emergencies.
Never understood the concept of a debit card. I spend mostly cash and use a credit card for large purchases.
Need a debit card to take the cash out of an ATM. Or, you call that card something else? Some people are not/cannot be trusted with credit cards (by banks, by parents), so they get convenience of plastic with a debit charge card. However, lack of legal protections on those (some banks give voluntary protections, but they can presumably pull them at any time, if they decided to) makes that not the best choice, more risky than many realize. A secured credit card, or unsecured card with a small limit may be a better way.
Close, and certainly scandal ridden but a bit farther north. It’s the city I grew up in and back in the 60s my father joined an independent group of citizen determined to oust the corrupt party in power. As a 12 yo I thought it was funny when their operatives would make phone calls to our house threatening death to our family. At that age I guess I was naive that there was anything my dad couldn’t protect me from.
Fast forward 50 years and the current administration is embroiled with wife beating allegations and FBI investigations. Playing fast and loose with the law is their speciality.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Having had a slight amount of experience in this area, and having seen quite a bit more trying to help out friends, I will offer the following advice. Take it for whatever it’s worth.
Number one, never show up in court without an attorney. The judge, the DA (assistant DA), everyone who has any say in the proceedings is an attorney. And they all believe in full employment for attorneys. On top of that, there are a great many ways that you can screw yourself accidentally, through ignorance. And no one is going to cut you any slack. None.
Number two, get a local attorney. Preferably someone who knows the players (the judge, the assistant DA, etc). Even better, an attorney who belongs to the same political party and is active in local politics. If the reason for this isn’t completely obvious to you, you should probably just shoot yourself now and save someone else the trouble.
Some might call the above advice cynical. I prefer the term “worldly wise”.
I LOVE that idea. Hope it comes to my banks here shortly - I'd love to ditch the debit card. It is literally the only card I carry with me that is largely a direct link to cash and I almost never use it, only carrying it for emergencies.
Never understood the concept of a debit card. I spend mostly cash and use a credit card for large purchases.
Need a debit card to take the cash out of an ATM. Or, you call that card something else? Some people are not/cannot be trusted with credit cards (by banks, by parents), so they get convenience of plastic with a debit charge card. However, lack of legal protections on those (some banks give voluntary protections, but they can presumably pull them at any time, if they decided to) makes that not the best choice, more risky than many realize. A secured credit card, or unsecured card with a small limit may be a better way.
I’ve never used an ATM so that’s moot. If I need money I go to the bank during business hours. I suppose there might be some circumstance where I’d need quick cash in the middle of the night but I usually have enough cash on hand to make that unnecessary.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Having had a slight amount of experience in this area, and having seen quite a bit more trying to help out friends, I will offer the following advice. Take it for whatever it’s worth.
Number one, never show up in court without an attorney. The judge, the DA (assistant DA), everyone who has any say in the proceedings is an attorney. And they all believe in full employment for attorneys. On top of that, there are a great many ways that you can screw yourself accidentally, through ignorance. And no one is going to cut you any slack. None.
Number two, get a local attorney. Preferably someone who knows the players (the judge, the assistant DA, etc). Even better, an attorney who belongs to the same political party and is active in local politics. If the reason for this isn’t completely obvious to you, you should probably just shoot yourself now and save someone else the trouble.
Some might call the above advice cynical. I prefer the term “worldly wise”.
I’ve never used an ATM so that’s moot. If I need money I go to the bank during business hours. I suppose there might be some circumstance where I’d need quick cash in the middle of the night but I usually have enough cash on hand to make that unnecessary.
Funny, I almost never stepped inside of the bank to take cash, or make a deposit. I have no time to go during banking hours. Even during those I'd rather take money from the machine outside (usually no people) than stand in line to a teller. My withdrawals are usually 3x20 bucks and they often last months at a time, as I pay with cards for almost everything (cashback rules). I do all my check deposits using iPhone/iPad app now, so no reason going to a bank for those, either. I'd only need to go inside if I wanted to take a little larger withdrawal ($1000-2000), which was a few times before I went overseas for a cash backup to bank cards, still preferred/cheapest form of currency conversion, especially now, when many credit cards no longer charge you a currency conversion fee (exchange rates still as good as they were when they did). I'd usually ask for larger denominations ($100s) and new bills, as they don't like used up bills in exchange points overseas, which is the main point of a withdrawal using a teller.
Fast forward 50 years and the current administration is embroiled with wife beating allegations and FBI investigations. Playing fast and loose with the law is their speciality.
Cohoes!
Of course NY state politics is notorious for corruption at both the state and municipal levels, so no real surprise. The mayor there sounds like a real winner though.
Having had a slight amount of experience in this area, and having seen quite a bit more trying to help out friends, I will offer the following advice. Take it for whatever it’s worth.
Number one, never show up in court without an attorney. The judge, the DA (assistant DA), everyone who has any say in the proceedings is an attorney. And they all believe in full employment for attorneys. On top of that, there are a great many ways that you can screw yourself accidentally, through ignorance. And no one is going to cut you any slack. None.
Number two, get a local attorney. Preferably someone who knows the players (the judge, the assistant DA, etc). Even better, an attorney who belongs to the same political party and is active in local politics. If the reason for this isn’t completely obvious to you, you should probably just shoot yourself now and save someone else the trouble.
Some might call the above advice cynical. I prefer the term “worldly wise”.
You never go to a courtroom unprepared.
Or, as the man said, "don't bring a knife to a gun fight".
jmonroe
'15 Genesis Ultimate just like jmonroe's. '18 Legacy Limited with 3.6R (Mrs. j's)
Fast forward 50 years and the current administration is embroiled with wife beating allegations and FBI investigations. Playing fast and loose with the law is their speciality.
Cohoes!
Of course NY state politics is notorious for corruption at both the state and municipal levels, so no real surprise. The mayor there sounds like a real winner though.
You didn’t hear it from me.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Am I sick or what? I keep looking at the Kia Soul as a replacement for my wife’s car. It has the higher seat high that makes it easy for her to get in and out and I’m impressed with the useable interior space. The ones I’ve driven handle and move acceptably. No, it won’t win any races but is looking better and better as a cheap grocery getter. I guess I’d prefer a Honda HR-V but at an Edmunds TMV near $16k for a 2019 the Soul appeals to my cheapskate nature.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Am I sick or what? I keep looking at the Kia Soul as a replacement for my wife’s car. It has the higher seat high that makes it easy for her to get in and out and I’m impressed with the useable interior space. The ones I’ve driven handle and move acceptably. No, it won’t win any races but is looking better and better as a cheap grocery getter. I guess I’d prefer a Honda HR-V but at an Edmunds TMV near $16k for a 2019 the Soul appeals to my cheapskate nature.
Either one would make a good little car. I like the look of the Soul, it seems substantial, and the reviews are very positive. Nothing wrong with HR-V too, guess you'd have to try them both or maybe you already have, but Mrs Oldfarmer would have to see which one suits her better....Soul is supposed to be very comfortable even on long drives, but, has harsher ride from what I just read.
Am I sick or what? I keep looking at the Kia Soul as a replacement for my wife’s car. It has the higher seat high that makes it easy for her to get in and out and I’m impressed with the useable interior space. The ones I’ve driven handle and move acceptably. No, it won’t win any races but is looking better and better as a cheap grocery getter. I guess I’d prefer a Honda HR-V but at an Edmunds TMV near $16k for a 2019 the Soul appeals to my cheapskate nature.
As long as you don’t get a lot of high winds your way. I found them somewhat tippy in those conditions. I’m sure they’re fine, but I didn’t care for the feeling.
Am I sick or what? I keep looking at the Kia Soul as a replacement for my wife’s car. It has the higher seat high that makes it easy for her to get in and out and I’m impressed with the useable interior space. The ones I’ve driven handle and move acceptably. No, it won’t win any races but is looking better and better as a cheap grocery getter. I guess I’d prefer a Honda HR-V but at an Edmunds TMV near $16k for a 2019 the Soul appeals to my cheapskate nature.
As long as you realize it is a gateway car that will lead to an unhealthy obsession with a Sentra
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
Am I sick or what? I keep looking at the Kia Soul as a replacement for my wife’s car. It has the higher seat high that makes it easy for her to get in and out and I’m impressed with the useable interior space. The ones I’ve driven handle and move acceptably. No, it won’t win any races but is looking better and better as a cheap grocery getter. I guess I’d prefer a Honda HR-V but at an Edmunds TMV near $16k for a 2019 the Soul appeals to my cheapskate nature.
Get the Kia Soul. That way in a few years the dealership will start sending you letters offering to buy your soul.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
And.....they'd be wrong......I suppose "on paper" they aren't too far apart, although the M3 is a full second or a little more faster 0-60 and faster in the 1/4. But when you include that washing machine engine and clunky shifter and nasty clutch action, you can just watch driver involvement circle the drain.
I like the Soul. Very functional, and it does have a good seating position. I could never get it past my wife however. She is a pill.
OF, you said you do all the driving, right (she doesn't any longer?) So if you like driving it, she likes the seat height and getting in and out of it, and it is cheap enough, go for it. A used won from the company could be a great deal.
Am I sick or what? I keep looking at the Kia Soul as a replacement for my wife’s car. It has the higher seat high that makes it easy for her to get in and out and I’m impressed with the useable interior space. The ones I’ve driven handle and move acceptably. No, it won’t win any races but is looking better and better as a cheap grocery getter. I guess I’d prefer a Honda HR-V but at an Edmunds TMV near $16k for a 2019 the Soul appeals to my cheapskate nature.
Either one would make a good little car. I like the look of the Soul, it seems substantial, and the reviews are very positive. Nothing wrong with HR-V too, guess you'd have to try them both or maybe you already have, but Mrs Oldfarmer would have to see which one suits her better....Soul is supposed to be very comfortable even on long drives, but, has harsher ride from what I just read.
I’ve driven the Soul several times and was pleased with what I experienced. Honda only sells us the Fit.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Am I sick or what? I keep looking at the Kia Soul as a replacement for my wife’s car. It has the higher seat high that makes it easy for her to get in and out and I’m impressed with the useable interior space. The ones I’ve driven handle and move acceptably. No, it won’t win any races but is looking better and better as a cheap grocery getter. I guess I’d prefer a Honda HR-V but at an Edmunds TMV near $16k for a 2019 the Soul appeals to my cheapskate nature.
As long as you realize it is a gateway car that will lead to an unhealthy obsession with a Sentra
LOL
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
I like the Soul. Very functional, and it does have a good seating position. I could never get it past my wife however. She is a pill.
OF, you said you do all the driving, right (she doesn't any longer?) So if you like driving it, she likes the seat height and getting in and out of it, and it is cheap enough, go for it. A used won from the company could be a great deal.
I showed my wife a picture and she said “you want me to ride in a rat’s car?”. But yeah, if the seat height is right and I like it (or a least don’t hate it) we’ll eventually get to “go ahead, you always do what you want anyway”
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Came across this in another forum... had to laugh.
Being removed from reality was one of the reasons GM went nearly extinct. They might have believed this b..s..t ad or not, in either case it was a disqualifier.
Am I sick or what? I keep looking at the Kia Soul as a replacement for my wife’s car. It has the higher seat high that makes it easy for her to get in and out and I’m impressed with the useable interior space. The ones I’ve driven handle and move acceptably. No, it won’t win any races but is looking better and better as a cheap grocery getter. I guess I’d prefer a Honda HR-V but at an Edmunds TMV near $16k for a 2019 the Soul appeals to my cheapskate nature.
Either one would make a good little car. I like the look of the Soul, it seems substantial, and the reviews are very positive. Nothing wrong with HR-V too, guess you'd have to try them both or maybe you already have, but Mrs Oldfarmer would have to see which one suits her better....Soul is supposed to be very comfortable even on long drives, but, has harsher ride from what I just read.
I’ve driven the Soul several times and was pleased with what I experienced. Honda only sells us the Fit.
I like the Soul. Only driven one twice, but as you say, as a grocery getter, Costco paper towel picker upper, and occasional drive to the country, it would fit the purpose well.
Never driven or been in an HR-V. It’s a Honda, so I’m thinking it’s probably well done.
Just got the estimate for damages to the wife’s PT. $2500.
With an Edmunds trade-in of about $2900 (which I assume is around auction value) it’s close to being totaled. Hope the shop doesn’t find any additional damage once they get into it.
If it does get totaled do any of you guys know how I would go about buying it back from the insurance company? What do you usually have to pay?
As much as I’ve been disappointed in this car recently it still runs and would make a decent winter beater.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
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For example, if you want a mobile unit (e.g., can move it from one vehicle to another easily), then you probably want something that is GoPro" style, where it has its own battery that will run for hours on end and attaches to the vehicle with a suction cup. With these, you can (but are not required to) plug them into 12V in the car if you don't mind the cord.
You can get a more permanently attached unit, like a BlackVue, that mounts to the windshield next to the rearview mirror. These are nice because you cannot even see them from the driver's seat, and you can run the 12-volt line through the A-pillar, headliner, and down the rearview mirror's chase so that the cord is basically hidden as well. If you get a unit that also has rear camera integration, then you will need to run a second line from the rear to front camera through the headliner (this is the toughest part of the install, IMO).
As for getting the recordings off, most of them use SD cards to store the data, so you can pop that out, put it in a computer, and look at the videos. Some record in proprietary formats, but most use mp4 or some other "universal" format. The BlackVue I have also has built-in wi-fi, so you can link a mobile device to it and use their application to view the files directly from the device (without downloading), as well as to download specific files for later viewing.
Video length is adjustable on some as well; typical video length is one minute.
Also, if you hard-wire the unit to your car's electrical system, you can get management boxes that allow the camera to run while the vehicle is parked without allowing the camera to drain the battery too low. Again, lots of options... how far down this rabbit hole to you want to explore?!
But, hey, if you end up getting one, then you get to share videos like this!
Mike has persuaded “Nigerian princes” to copy the Lord of the Rings trilogy and most of the Harry Potter series by hand, just by saying that he works for a handwriting analysis company and pays $30 per handwritten page. He has convinced them to book international flights and expensive hotel rooms for important business meetings that didn’t exist. He has manipulated them into getting tattoos. He once made a scammer fall in love with him by impersonating Gillian Anderson online. He has even faked his own death while the horrified scammer listens on the phone.
However, just for the sheer petty nastiness of it, our favorite trick of his has to be the time he conned a 419 scammer into carving a Commodore 64 computer out of wood...
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
Showing up in court with a lawyer is perhaps not a good strategy. It says I'm guilty and i'm going to buy my way out of this predicament. Instead he should appear to be contrite and throw himself on the mercy of the court. If he is tearful and sincere in his plea he just might walk Scott free.
I disagree. Intoxicated driving is taken very seriously these days almost to the point of vengeance. GG’s friend might get off with a drinking driver program but no one gets off scott free any more. Bring a lawyer.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Just recently though the dash cam started losing memory (date would reset) and would shut off randomly. Doesn't work at all now which sucks. It's called Transcend drivepro. I expected a longer lifespan out of it.
The advantage of a removable dash cam is that you can switch between cars and take it off when parked. Otherwise even if it's hard wired it's another thing thieves can break your window for and steal out of your car.
I'm very surprised though that by now auto makers aren't offering them as a factory option, even on higher end vehicles considering most luxury cars are already equipped with an array of sensors and cameras everywhere. I noticed Lexus offers them as a dealer installed option, and our dealership offers aftermarket units as well but it would be more convenient to have one built in on the car with a slot in the dash for the micro SD card, or even an ability do download footage from the car directly to your smart phone via Bluetooth.
2016 Audi A7 3.0T S Line, 2021 Subaru WRX
I really don’t want to be in my friend’s business right now, but he is sort of using me as his “crutch”. I’m there for him, if he wants me to be. He knows that.
But, not sure a crutch is what he needs. One day at a time is the approach I told him to take.
I’m thoroughly convinced he doesn’t have an alcohol (and certainly not a drug) problem. With the divorce, his whole life has changed, and he’s not handling it well. Won’t get into details, but his estranged wife has been verbally and mentally abusive towards him for years. But, he still loves her. I believed once she left (over his protestations), his life would get better. Just the opposite has happened.
It’s just a mess. We’re talking every day, which is something we’ve never done. If it helps, that’s good. I’m not a lawyer or a marriage counselor, though.
Anyway, he did secure the lawyer as I previously alluded to. The hope is that he’ll get the charges dismissed or, at the very least, reduced.
RB...his lawyer’s first line of defense has been exactly as you predicted. He’s attacking the validity and/or accuracy of the impairment test, as well as the entire reason my friend was detained in the first place.
Interestingly enough, my friend said the lawyer honed in on the fact that he doesn’t recall the arresting officer’s recitation of the Miranda rights. According to the attorney, it doesn’t appear on the officer’s dash cam, either. They don’t know if the officer was wearing a body cam, which would offer more eveindence, but apparently if there was, they have to turn it over to my friend’s lawyer. At the end of the day, it boils down to the officer’s word against my friend’s.
I bought an inexpensive (~$50) portable suction cup model on amazon a while back, to run in the fintail. It was fried about 10 seconds in - either defective, or the fintail's cigarette lighter has voltage issues. I got a refund anyway. I've tried using apps on my phone, but the images are unstable. If I ever upgrade the cam in the modern car, I might have the old one installed in the old car.
2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
I'm very surprised though that by now auto makers aren't offering them as a factory option, even on higher end vehicles considering most luxury cars are already equipped with an array of sensors and cameras everywhere. I noticed Lexus offers them as a dealer installed option, and our dealership offers aftermarket units as well but it would be more convenient to have one built in on the car with a slot in the dash for the micro SD card, or even an ability do download footage from the car directly to your smart phone via Bluetooth.
Thanks for the info Boomer. I agree, it would make a great option for the car manufacturer to offer, and it could be nicely built in.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
2018 430i Gran Coupe
Some people are not/cannot be trusted with credit cards (by banks, by parents), so they get convenience of plastic with a debit charge card. However, lack of legal protections on those (some banks give voluntary protections, but they can presumably pull them at any time, if they decided to) makes that not the best choice, more risky than many realize. A secured credit card, or unsecured card with a small limit may be a better way.
2018 430i Gran Coupe
Fast forward 50 years and the current administration is embroiled with wife beating allegations and FBI investigations. Playing fast and loose with the law is their speciality.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Number one, never show up in court without an attorney. The judge, the DA (assistant DA), everyone who has any say in the proceedings is an attorney. And they all believe in full employment for attorneys. On top of that, there are a great many ways that you can screw yourself accidentally, through ignorance. And no one is going to cut you any slack. None.
Number two, get a local attorney. Preferably someone who knows the players (the judge, the assistant DA, etc). Even better, an attorney who belongs to the same political party and is active in local politics. If the reason for this isn’t completely obvious to you, you should probably just shoot yourself now and save someone else the trouble.
Some might call the above advice cynical. I prefer the term “worldly wise”.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
2018 430i Gran Coupe
Of course NY state politics is notorious for corruption at both the state and municipal levels, so no real surprise. The mayor there sounds like a real winner though.
2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6
jmonroe
'18 Legacy Limited with 3.6R (Mrs. j's)
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
As long as you don’t get a lot of high winds your way. I found them somewhat tippy in those conditions. I’m sure they’re fine, but I didn’t care for the feeling.
'24 Chevy Blazer EV 2LT
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
You aren't thinking about picking up a creampuff from your employer?
All Nissan's lead to the Sentra.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic / 2022 Icon I6L Golf Cart
OF, you said you do all the driving, right (she doesn't any longer?) So if you like driving it, she likes the seat height and getting in and out of it, and it is cheap enough, go for it. A used won from the company could be a great deal.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
2018 430i Gran Coupe
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
LOL
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
2018 430i Gran Coupe
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Never driven or been in an HR-V. It’s a Honda, so I’m thinking it’s probably well done.
With an Edmunds trade-in of about $2900 (which I assume is around auction value) it’s close to being totaled. Hope the shop doesn’t find any additional damage once they get into it.
If it does get totaled do any of you guys know how I would go about buying it back from the insurance company? What do you usually have to pay?
As much as I’ve been disappointed in this car recently it still runs and would make a decent winter beater.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible