Edmunds Members - Cars and Conversations (Archived)

stickguy

I can't recall the last time I got dinged by EZ pass, and that was when it just did not register for some reason but I got that resolved. I just make sure the transponder is in the car (one resides in each, with a spare in the desk drawer). Though I did put on my to-do list to figure out how to get into the account and update the plates. I highly doubt the TLX is on there. I know the RDX is.

suydam

When I had a rental car I had to register that plate on my account.

driver100

venture said:

driver100 said:

Hopefully getting near the end of the backup camera story...hoping for Mike's sake.
Remember the first installer supplied by amazon was going to charge $199 for installation. They told me to bring the car in at 9 a.m., and leave it until 6 p.m. I figured the $199 wasn't enough to work on the car for 4 hours straight....wanted to do it during a quiet time. They called today and left a message....we can't install this on a Mercedes.

I still have the wireless backup camera/dashcam that Best Buy is supposed to install next week....we will see how that goes.

I had Best Buy install my dash cam. Front and rear view. I was skeptical, but they did a good job. I guess it depends on the individual installer.

Good to hear....most people seemed satisfied, get good ratings for installation. It seems to be pretty straightforward, if you know what you are doing.
Let "The Geek Guy" do it!

qbrozen

I am waiting to put in my camera before taking pics of my Charger stereo install. One little disappointing detail is it has USB only on the front. So using carplay requires a wire sticking out of the dash. I’ll likely plug one in and run it under the shifter base to the center console. At least hide it somewhat.

snakeweasel

driver100 said:

oldfarmer50 said:

driver100 said:

oldfarmer50 said:

roadburner said:

Smitty_7 said:

explorerx4 said:

I'm ok with the Mach E name, but a Mustang model and styling(lights), not so sure.
Maybe it looks better in person.

There's been some photos of the Mach-E out in the public that have come out and it really stands out.

So did the Aztec...

I’ve got no trouble with the looks of the Mach-E but I object to the dilution of the Mustang nameplate. It’s NOT a Mustang by any definition.

Why not just call it a Mach-E?

Tesla is the leader and has brand recognition. Ford is new at the E-car game and there is a lot riding on this, Ford gets a bit of a lead in by using the iconic Mustang name on the car. If the new car is called the Ford Electrolux, it kind of gets lost in the herd.

Hopefully, it won't devalue your "real"Mustang of.

Ford Electrolux? Are we back to the vacuum cleaner discussion again?

As to devaluing the brand, how did Dodge fare with putting the Charger name on a 4 door sedan? Perhaps they got away with it because the real Charger hadn’t been in production for a generation. The Mustang, however, is still being made so they are obviously riding on coat tails here.

What would be better than calling it the Mach-E and introducing it as a new creation rather than ticking off people who come looking for an electric Mustang?

I think the problem is Mach isn't a name you can probably get copyrighted. Mach 1 refers to the speed of sound, about 761 mph depending on temperature. Mustang Mach-E is protected by the Mustang name....Mach is probably generic.

About the Charger name. I get the Charger and Challenger cars confused. But, the Charger was absent for decades, so people have forgotten what it was attached to.

You cannot copyright it but you can trademark it and Ford has, or had, a trademark on "Mach 1" for a high performance Mustang. So "Mach" is associated with Mustang.

venture

jmonroe1 said:

venture said:

Just got back from Maryland after going down to see the new grandson. Had over 350 posts to wade through.

You guys have been busy.

I wouldn't say we have been busier than usual unless you think one of our poster buddies is trying to get to 50K posts in half the time it took him to amass 25K posts.

jmonroe

Quantity over quality?

venture

While cleaning my office I ran across the window sticker for my 1988 Buick Regal. One of my first cars.

MSRP was $12,782 and with options and destination it was $15,961. Everything was a single option; no packages. It had the optional radio with cassette player, "concert sound" speakers, and automatic power antenna. It sounded like crap if I remember correctly.

As a first year model it wasn't too bad except for the brakes. I always had trouble with them.

I recall being happier when I traded it in than I was when I bought it.

Michaell

venture said:

While cleaning my office I ran across the window sticker for my 1988 Buick Regal. One of my first cars.

MSRP was $12,782 and with options and destination it was $15,961. Everything was a single option; no packages. It had the optional radio with cassette player, "concert sound" speakers, and automatic power antenna. It sounded like crap if I remember correctly.

As a first year model it wasn't too bad except for the brakes. I always had trouble with them.

I recall being happier when I traded it in than I was when I bought it.

Just over $34K today, adjusted for inflation.

Sandman6472

OF, So far, so good! Liking the new Enterprise gig a whole lot. Mostly older retired guys and a few women, about 35 of us, give or take. Our group is only at 5 drivers right now, but eventually, the team will contain 10 plus the lead. Today, I did a lot of the driving of the chase vehicle as the others had excuses as to why they didn't want to do it. Since I was the last guy getting in the Dodge minivan, the lead gave me the keys and said, drive please. Turns out, he does paperwork and gets texts and phone calls telling him what moves we're going to make. He took over the chase when we had cars to move. But he's a really nice guy, very calm and communicates well with all of the drivers. Stresses safety and says to not speed, take enough time to get there safely. His calmness has the rest of our crew actually having fun while learning the many places we're going to be going.
We've mostly been going between Palm Beach county and Broward county moving vehicles to the "recon" area. Luckily, I've been almost everywhere we've been going at all my other driving gigs, so it's been quite easy to just go. We eat on the road instead of always going back to base, which is a real time saver. Since some of us bring, we've been going to the service plaza on the turnpike so those who need to buy have a few choices. Quickest half hour of the day! First day, we worked from 7:30 to 7:30 as there were some issues on he last run which set us back close to an hour. But today, got back earlier and clocked out by 5:30. A few of us have volunteered to work Thursdays and Saturdays/Sundays if needed. He mentioned that since we'll always be off on Mondays, might be best to try and set all doctors appointments and other things we need to do for that day so we'll be free if needed those other days. Only a couple of the guys said they'd rather just work the three days they signed up for. He said that's cool, so we'll see how things go. Since it's season here now, I plan to work as many days/week as they need me as I know the summer will be a slower time. And they're letting me take my weeks vacation at the end of December as planned since I've basically worked all year with no real time off except for my allergy surgery in May. Everyone is very friendly which has made this transition from Hertz to Enterprise so easy.
Hard to believe that next month, I've been moving rental vehicles for seven years! The time has flown by and it's still as much fun as it was my first day in January 2013! I'm still happy to get up & go to work when scheduled so feel very lucky. Same way with the post office job I had. For that reason, I feel very blessed!

venture

Michaell said:

venture said:

While cleaning my office I ran across the window sticker for my 1988 Buick Regal. One of my first cars.

MSRP was $12,782 and with options and destination it was $15,961. Everything was a single option; no packages. It had the optional radio with cassette player, "concert sound" speakers, and automatic power antenna. It sounded like crap if I remember correctly.

As a first year model it wasn't too bad except for the brakes. I always had trouble with them.

I recall being happier when I traded it in than I was when I bought it.

Just over $34K today, adjusted for inflation.

Not much different than today. It's really hard to configure a car now that is similar to one that old. Most of the options on the '88 are now standard. Most of the options now didn't exist back then either.

driver100

venture said:

jmonroe1 said:

venture said:

Just got back from Maryland after going down to see the new grandson. Had over 350 posts to wade through.

You guys have been busy.

I wouldn't say we have been busier than usual unless you think one of our poster buddies is trying to get to 50K posts in half the time it took him to amass 25K posts.

jmonroe

Quantity over quality?

I am the "high volume" dealer!

driver100

Sad news today. I got a message on the answering machine......from the Geek Guy at Best Buy. He can't install the camera on a Mercedes, there are too many codes built into the system he would have to deal with. He said the young lady who sold it to me should have known that.

Now, a 30 minute drive through heavy traffic to return it, at least I know it is a waste of time trying...may have to look for a newer car. At least I would have a "real" excuse.

snakeweasel

driver100 said:

Sad news today. I got a message on the answering machine......from the Geek Guy at Best Buy. He can't install the camera on a Mercedes, there are too many codes built into the system he would have to deal with. He said the young lady who sold it to me should have known that.

Now, a 30 minute drive through heavy traffic to return it, at least I know it is a waste of time trying...may have to look for a newer car. At least I would have a "real" excuse.

Here is a really low cost alternative;

tjc78

driver100 said:

Sad news today. I got a message on the answering machine......from the Geek Guy at Best Buy. He can't install the camera on a Mercedes, there are too many codes built into the system he would have to deal with. He said the young lady who sold it to me should have known that.

Now, a 30 minute drive through heavy traffic to return it, at least I know it is a waste of time trying...may have to look for a newer car. At least I would have a "real" excuse.

They just don't want to deal with it.

If it's a standalone system it can be done on anything! At the end of the day it's a 12 Volt connection.

@fintail has a dashcam in his modern Mercedes. Not much different wiring than a back up cam.

driver100

I think they don't want to tap into the wiring that is there. My IT guy said they pay The Geeks minimum wages, they probably don't want to cause a major problem.
Maybe one of these other indie guys is more knowledgeable and could do it. The Geek said he can't do a Mercedes after about 2000 because he will be tripping codes.
Anyone know if it can be done?

Actually, we have been here for 6 weeks and I am getting used to not having a camera, but there are times when it would be a nice extra to have.

stickguy

Get the wireless set up, and just deal with the wire to the 12v plug. Can install that yourself!

driver100

I don't want a wire that goes to the cigarette lighter. I don't want it going any distance, but this would be worse, from the mirror down to the console. better to buy a newer car

nyccarguy

driver100 said:

I think they don't want to tap into the wiring that is there. My IT guy said they pay The Geeks minimum wages, they probably don't want to cause a major problem.
Maybe one of these other indie guys is more knowledgeable and could do it. The Geek said he can't do a Mercedes after about 2000 because he will be tripping codes.
Anyone know if it can be done?

Actually, we have been here for 6 weeks and I am getting used to not having a camera, but there are times when it would be a nice extra to have.

Believe me, I'm all for making up excuses to buy (or lease) a new car. I was in Costco a few weeks ago and swear they had a "wireless" backup camera that was integrated into a license plate frame.

suydam

venture said:

While cleaning my office I ran across the window sticker for my 1988 Buick Regal. One of my first cars.

MSRP was $12,782 and with options and destination it was $15,961. Everything was a single option; no packages. It had the optional radio with cassette player, "concert sound" speakers, and automatic power antenna. It sounded like crap if I remember correctly.

As a first year model it wasn't too bad except for the brakes. I always had trouble with them.

I recall being happier when I traded it in than I was when I bought it.

$15k was a lot of money in 1988. We could never have afforded a car that expensive back then, with 1 income and 3 small children. We actually bought our first new car that year, a Mazda 323 sedan MT. I think it cost well under $5000 and I thought that was so much money! We really loved that car.

stickguy

We bought a 323lx stick in 1986. I loved that car!

qbrozen

I wasn't driving in the '80s. ;b

graphicguy

abacomike said:

graphicguy said:

fintail said:

Dear Leader doesn't seem to like Puerto Rico, maybe it could be traded for some oil-rich northern island?

ab348 said:

My sense of that area (totally based on zero actual experience) is that in winter it is not warm so much as just less cold. So, damp and gray, but without snow usually. I am talking sun, warm temps, drinks with umbrellas, and a need for SPF40.

I’m actually looking at property/house in Puerto Rico.

As long as you keep looking, no harm can come of it. But if you act on those observations (property/house), big trouble - especially in Puerto Rico. Remember the problems with their electric grid? And don't forget their junk bonds that many people lost their life savings on! Oh - and the corruption on the island - can't forget that!

Mike....there are some risks involved, as you point out. I kind of vacillate on making that sort of life change, which would be dramatic and fraught with the “unknown”.

Fact is, Puerto Rico is part of the U.S. so visas, passports, all the rights I have as a U.S. Citizen in OH would transfer there and would be the same as I enjoy now.

Their power grid failures depend on the part of Puerto Rico you’re looking at. Some areas are terrible...some are no different than what’s going on in CA right now. I think a fuel generator would be required as back up.

The up-side....property....nice property.....beach front property...is cheap right now.

Political corruption.....well, that issue isn’t much different in Puerto Rico than what we have in the upper 48.

Weather? Mostly eden-like. The risk of hurricanes isn’t much different than it is in South Florida or the Gulf Coast.

It’s a drop dead gorgeous part of the U.S., too.

Truthfully, it’s just a matter of where I want to spend my retirement years. I’m 3-5 years of making that jump, though. I know many (including yourself) love FL. Many of my friends have their homes here and their home (condos) in FL. I think you guys have lots to recommend FL. It’s just not for me. Can’t explain why.

Can you imagine a house or condo right on the beach in S Florida and being able to purchase it for less than $100K? That’s what I can do in Puerto Rico.

Might be a pipe dream. But, I’ve been down there 3 times to look, so I must be more than just casually looking.

nyccarguy

graphicguy said:

abacomike said:

graphicguy said:

fintail said:

Dear Leader doesn't seem to like Puerto Rico, maybe it could be traded for some oil-rich northern island?

ab348 said:

My sense of that area (totally based on zero actual experience) is that in winter it is not warm so much as just less cold. So, damp and gray, but without snow usually. I am talking sun, warm temps, drinks with umbrellas, and a need for SPF40.

I’m actually looking at property/house in Puerto Rico.

As long as you keep looking, no harm can come of it. But if you act on those observations (property/house), big trouble - especially in Puerto Rico. Remember the problems with their electric grid? And don't forget their junk bonds that many people lost their life savings on! Oh - and the corruption on the island - can't forget that!

Mike....there are some risks involved, as you point out. I kind of vacillate on making that sort of life change, which would be dramatic and fraught with the “unknown”.

Fact is, Puerto Rico is part of the U.S. so visas, passports, all the rights I have as a U.S. Citizen in OH would transfer there and would be the same as I enjoy now.

Their power grid failures depend on the part of Puerto Rico you’re looking at. Some areas are terrible...some are no different than what’s going on in CA right now. I think a fuel generator would be required as back up.

The up-side....property....nice property.....beach front property...is cheap right now.

Political corruption.....well, that issue isn’t much different in Puerto Rico than what we have in the upper 48.

Weather? Mostly eden-like. The risk of hurricanes isn’t much different than it is in South Florida or the Gulf Coast.

It’s a drop dead gorgeous part of the U.S., too.

Truthfully, it’s just a matter of where I want to spend my retirement years. I’m 3-5 years of making that jump, though. I know many (including yourself) love FL. Many of my friends have their homes here and their home (condos) in FL. I think you guys have lots to recommend FL. It’s just not for me. Can’t explain why.

Can you imagine a house or condo right on the beach in S Florida and being able to purchase it for less than $100K? That’s what I can do in Puerto Rico.

Might be a pipe dream. But, I’ve been down there 3 times to look, so I must be more than just casually looking.

What part of Puerto Rico have you been looking at?

abacomike

driver100 said:

Sad news today. I got a message on the answering machine......from the Geek Guy at Best Buy. He can't install the camera on a Mercedes, there are too many codes built into the system he would have to deal with. He said the young lady who sold it to me should have known that.

Now, a 30 minute drive through heavy traffic to return it, at least I know it is a waste of time trying...may have to look for a newer car. At least I would have a "real" excuse.

So glad you are taking my advice. Since you don't need a big car, I would suggest a new Mercedes GLC - my brother just got one and he loves it. It has all the nanny tech features which will fulfill your needs.

jmonroe1

suydam said:

venture said:

While cleaning my office I ran across the window sticker for my 1988 Buick Regal. One of my first cars.

MSRP was $12,782 and with options and destination it was $15,961. Everything was a single option; no packages. It had the optional radio with cassette player, "concert sound" speakers, and automatic power antenna. It sounded like crap if I remember correctly.

As a first year model it wasn't too bad except for the brakes. I always had trouble with them.

I recall being happier when I traded it in than I was when I bought it.

$15k was a lot of money in 1988. We could never have afforded a car that expensive back then, with 1 income and 3 small children. We actually bought our first new car that year, a Mazda 323 sedan MT. I think it cost well under $5000 and I thought that was so much money! We really loved that car.

If you think $15K was a lot of money in 1988, you would have had a conniption about the almost $17K that my 1980 Buick Park Ave. cost. I didn't buy it new (I bought it used in '83 for $7800, private party). I found the window sticker in the glove compartment along with a few service records. Had that car untill 1997 when we moved back from SC. The car had around 115K miles on it and the tranny was just starting to slip. I was considering dumping around 400 bucks into it for a rebuilt tranny but Mrs. j said, "just let it go already, just let it go!" That car was just starting to show some rust behind the left wheel well but other than that it was perfect body wise. If I knew @oldfarmer50 back then he would have given me more than the 800 bucks the used car dealer gave me when he put it on the hook of his tow truck and stole it from me. :@

jmonroe

tjc78

Nice car those late 70s / Early 80s Park Avenues. They were quiet, comfy cruisers. Nothing like them on the road today, that's for sure.

How could you not love seats like this!!!!

driver100

nyccarguy said:

driver100 said:

I think they don't want to tap into the wiring that is there. My IT guy said they pay The Geeks minimum wages, they probably don't want to cause a major problem.
Maybe one of these other indie guys is more knowledgeable and could do it. The Geek said he can't do a Mercedes after about 2000 because he will be tripping codes.
Anyone know if it can be done?

Actually, we have been here for 6 weeks and I am getting used to not having a camera, but there are times when it would be a nice extra to have.

Believe me, I'm all for making up excuses to buy (or lease) a new car. I was in Costco a few weeks ago and swear they had a "wireless" backup camera that was integrated into a license plate frame.

The camera I just bought is integrated into the trunk lid....out of sight. Wireless signal is sent to a monitor that is built into a mirror, or could be a little box.......but, that is what needs the power, that has to be wired into the electrical system. That is what the Geek Guy doesn't want to take responsibility for.

driver100

abacomike said:

driver100 said:

Sad news today. I got a message on the answering machine......from the Geek Guy at Best Buy. He can't install the camera on a Mercedes, there are too many codes built into the system he would have to deal with. He said the young lady who sold it to me should have known that.

Now, a 30 minute drive through heavy traffic to return it, at least I know it is a waste of time trying...may have to look for a newer car. At least I would have a "real" excuse.

So glad you are taking my advice. Since you don't need a big car, I would suggest a new Mercedes GLC - my brother just got one and he loves it. It has all the nanny tech features which will fulfill your needs.

I would arther get a 2015 GLK like we have at home. I am not a fan of that flat pancake style with narrow windows....and not much space for passengers, which we have quite a bit.

tjc78

It's two wires... Holy Crap. Quick Google for wire colors and a few vampire taps.. Done.

1 hour job TOPS.

Sad, really sad IMO.

jmonroe1

tjc78 said:

Nice car those late 70s / Early 80s Park Avenues. They were quiet, comfy cruisers. Nothing like them on the road today, that's for sure.

How could you not love seats like this!!!!

I did like those seats. Mine were light grey (went perfect with the charcoal grey exterior and light matching grey padded vinyl top) with the vertical rib style like that red interior not the horizontal style like the blue one. You are right about those cars being good cruisers. When people say "land yaught", that is exactly the type of car they are thinking about. Not much on handling though. IIRC, the car did not respond untill the steering wheel was turned about 90 degrees but that is the best road car I ever had. To this day both of my sons talk about the vacations we took with that beast.

jmonroe

stickguy

They have probably been burned, expensively, on a car like that and just not willing to take the risk.

If the trunk piece needs power, that usually just taps into the wire to the back up light. If the head unit is a box, keep it on the dash or in the console, and plug into the 12v outlet. Pick it up when you need it.

If you want something totally hidden and integrated, gonna have to pay up. If you just want a cheap way to see behind you, this should do it. Or you lived without it this long, just keep winging it!

fintail

I'd look for a higher end boutique style shop who specializes in custom installs. They won't be scared - you'll pay for it,but you'll get what you want. My cars are hoopties compared to the metal I see at the shop who installed my dashcam, good enough for something well into 6 figures, good enough for me.

Or maybe use it as an excuse to shop? Maybe a good time to deal on leftover 19 C-class, Here's a nice one at my local dealer

driver100 said:

Sad news today. I got a message on the answering machine......from the Geek Guy at Best Buy. He can't install the camera on a Mercedes, there are too many codes built into the system he would have to deal with. He said the young lady who sold it to me should have known that.

Now, a 30 minute drive through heavy traffic to return it, at least I know it is a waste of time trying...may have to look for a newer car. At least I would have a "real" excuse.

graphicguy

nyccarguy said:

graphicguy said:

abacomike said:

graphicguy said:

fintail said:

Dear Leader doesn't seem to like Puerto Rico, maybe it could be traded for some oil-rich northern island?

ab348 said:

My sense of that area (totally based on zero actual experience) is that in winter it is not warm so much as just less cold. So, damp and gray, but without snow usually. I am talking sun, warm temps, drinks with umbrellas, and a need for SPF40.

I’m actually looking at property/house in Puerto Rico.

As long as you keep looking, no harm can come of it. But if you act on those observations (property/house), big trouble - especially in Puerto Rico. Remember the problems with their electric grid? And don't forget their junk bonds that many people lost their life savings on! Oh - and the corruption on the island - can't forget that!

Mike....there are some risks involved, as you point out. I kind of vacillate on making that sort of life change, which would be dramatic and fraught with the “unknown”.

Fact is, Puerto Rico is part of the U.S. so visas, passports, all the rights I have as a U.S. Citizen in OH would transfer there and would be the same as I enjoy now.

Their power grid failures depend on the part of Puerto Rico you’re looking at. Some areas are terrible...some are no different than what’s going on in CA right now. I think a fuel generator would be required as back up.

The up-side....property....nice property.....beach front property...is cheap right now.

Political corruption.....well, that issue isn’t much different in Puerto Rico than what we have in the upper 48.

Weather? Mostly eden-like. The risk of hurricanes isn’t much different than it is in South Florida or the Gulf Coast.

It’s a drop dead gorgeous part of the U.S., too.

Truthfully, it’s just a matter of where I want to spend my retirement years. I’m 3-5 years of making that jump, though. I know many (including yourself) love FL. Many of my friends have their homes here and their home (condos) in FL. I think you guys have lots to recommend FL. It’s just not for me. Can’t explain why.

Can you imagine a house or condo right on the beach in S Florida and being able to purchase it for less than $100K? That’s what I can do in Puerto Rico.

Might be a pipe dream. But, I’ve been down there 3 times to look, so I must be more than just casually looking.

What part of Puerto Rico have you been looking at?

Las Merias, San Juan...some other more rural (but beautiful) areas.

fintail

5K for a new 323 in 1988? After trade or down or a demo or something? I don't have exact memories of car prices that year, but I know my mom's loaded 85 Tempo stickered just over 10K IIRC, and a close friend's family bought a new Accord in 92 that stickered just over 15K, for some reason I remember that one vividly.

In my neighborhood, houses that were 100K in 1988 can be 1.5MM +++ today. Too bad wages haven't evolved like that.

stickguy

I was guessing 7,500-8k sticker for ours. I actually might still have the paperwork someplace!

laurasdada

Mike....there are some risks involved, as you point out. I kind of vacillate on making that sort of life change, which would be dramatic and fraught with the “unknown”.

Fact is, Puerto Rico is part of the U.S. so visas, passports, all the rights I have as a U.S. Citizen in OH would transfer there and would be the same as I enjoy now.

Their power grid failures depend on the part of Puerto Rico you’re looking at. Some areas are terrible...some are no different than what’s going on in CA right now. I think a fuel generator would be required as back up.

The up-side....property....nice property.....beach front property...is cheap right now.

Political corruption.....well, that issue isn’t much different in Puerto Rico than what we have in the upper 48.

Weather? Mostly eden-like. The risk of hurricanes isn’t much different than it is in South Florida or the Gulf Coast.

It’s a drop dead gorgeous part of the U.S., too.

Truthfully, it’s just a matter of where I want to spend my retirement years. I’m 3-5 years of making that jump, though. I know many (including yourself) love FL. Many of my friends have their homes here and their home (condos) in FL. I think you guys have lots to recommend FL. It’s just not for me. Can’t explain why.

Can you imagine a house or condo right on the beach in S Florida and being able to purchase it for less than $100K? That’s what I can do in Puerto Rico.

Might be a pipe dream. But, I’ve been down there 3 times to look, so I must be more than just casually looking.


Two words, GG: Aru ba!
I visited Puerto Rico once, enjoyed it; El Yunque, El Morro, Old San Juan. Stayed at the Marriott, it was nice to be able to stroll down the street to a Subway, just like home. English well spoken, I tried my hand at Espanol and apparently my accent was good enough to start a conversation at the Subway. Unfortunately, I couldn't keep up with the native tongue.
My tongue-in-cheek (but actually more true than not) review is that the national sound of Puerto Rico is the car alarm! At least near the Marriott, it seemed a car alarm would sound ~every 15 minutes...probably the same car

Keep us posted, I'm not sure how far from retirement I am, trying to figure out where to live it. Could stay in New England, I do love it here and have no hatred of snow. Maybe I'll just follow Tom and Giselle...

suydam

Now that I think of it, it probably was more like $8k. It was a very basic car — MT, roll up windows. Very fun to drive! I know it was less than a Honda Ciivic which we decided we couldn’t afford.

driver100

fintail said:

I'd look for a higher end boutique style shop who specializes in custom installs. They won't be scared - you'll pay for it,but you'll get what you want. My cars are hoopties compared to the metal I see at the shop who installed my dashcam, good enough for something well into 6 figures, good enough for me.

Or maybe use it as an excuse to shop? Maybe a good time to deal on leftover 19 C-class, Here's a nice one at my local dealer

driver100 said:

Sad news today. I got a message on the answering machine......from the Geek Guy at Best Buy. He can't install the camera on a Mercedes, there are too many codes built into the system he would have to deal with. He said the young lady who sold it to me should have known that.

Now, a 30 minute drive through heavy traffic to return it, at least I know it is a waste of time trying...may have to look for a newer car. At least I would have a "real" excuse.

I tried one high end shop....5 stars, lots of glowing reviews. They insisted on hardwiring in, using their equipment "to get it right", cost to install $400 plus the equipment.

I like that 2019....I don't think I need an AMG model for 5 months/6000 miles use each year. I don't like the ad in it tells you nothing about the car, unless you give them your information. But, one beautiful looking car.

andres3

snakeweasel said:

PF_Flyer said:

Never try to "prove" anything on an internet forum or message board is what my grandma always said

Just sayin'

While there are true believers out there that would not accept anything that goes against their narrative (I'm talking to you flat earthers with your high tech gyroscope) false information should be challenged. Any statement can and will seem true until someone comes along to challenge it. The challenge is not so much to change the mind of the poster but to give the casual observer more information so that they can make a informed opinion.

For example, I recently learned that European studies/groups similar to the NHTSA also lump all sorts of absurd things in order to pad the "speed kills" fatality stats with speed-remotely-related collisions.

This time, "stolen vehicles." You can't make this stuff up. That high-speed chase you saw on the nightly news ending in a "speeding" crash causes these insurance-backed "statisticians" to get out of their seats and jump for joy at another peg to add to the padded stats blaming speeders for everything.

I think I've seen some auto insurance policies include in their exclusions "collisions caused during the commission of a crime" such as using your vehicle as the getaway car robbing banks. If Insurance companies can exclude it in their policies, why can't they fund honest statistics and data gathering similarly?

andres3

suydam said:

Now that I think of it, it probably was more like $8k. It was a very basic car — MT, roll up windows. Very fun to drive! I know it was less than a Honda Ciivic which we decided we couldn’t afford.

Lots of things were INITIALLY cheaper than a Civic, including my Neon. As for long term costs, that's another story.

snakeweasel

andres3 said:

snakeweasel said:

PF_Flyer said:

Never try to "prove" anything on an internet forum or message board is what my grandma always said

Just sayin'

While there are true believers out there that would not accept anything that goes against their narrative (I'm talking to you flat earthers with your high tech gyroscope) false information should be challenged. Any statement can and will seem true until someone comes along to challenge it. The challenge is not so much to change the mind of the poster but to give the casual observer more information so that they can make a informed opinion.

For example, I recently learned that European studies/groups similar to the NHTSA also lump all sorts of absurd things in order to pad the "speed kills" fatality stats with speed-remotely-related collisions.

This time, "stolen vehicles." You can't make this stuff up. That high-speed chase you saw on the nightly news ending in a "speeding" crash causes these insurance-backed "statisticians" to get out of their seats and jump for joy at another peg to add to the padded stats blaming speeders for everything.

I think I've seen some auto insurance policies include in their exclusions "collisions caused during the commission of a crime" such as using your vehicle as the getaway car robbing banks. If Insurance companies can exclude it in their policies, why can't they fund honest statistics and data gathering similarly?

I'm going out on a limb and say that the irony of your post escapes you.

driver100

tjc78 said:

It's two wires... Holy Crap. Quick Google for wire colors and a few vampire taps.. Done.

1 hour job TOPS.

Sad, really sad IMO.

Best Buy Geeks and one indie seem to be afraid to work on an MB. Afraid to trip up codes, that is what they say. I see on Youtube....if I request "install backup camera on 2014 C250 Mercedes all kinds of guys who can install the camera monitor right into the infotainment system - a W204 model - is that what I have IMID?. Most of these guys are working on European cars....right hand drive, and they really know what they are doing.

The problem is, finding someone I can trust won't mess the car up.

houdini2

nyccarguy said:

driver100 said:

I think they don't want to tap into the wiring that is there. My IT guy said they pay The Geeks minimum wages, they probably don't want to cause a major problem.
Maybe one of these other indie guys is more knowledgeable and could do it. The Geek said he can't do a Mercedes after about 2000 because he will be tripping codes.
Anyone know if it can be done?

Actually, we have been here for 6 weeks and I am getting used to not having a camera, but there are times when it would be a nice extra to have.

Believe me, I'm all for making up excuses to buy (or lease) a new car. I was in Costco a few weeks ago and swear they had a "wireless" backup camera that was integrated into a license plate frame.

He would still have to pay someone to install it.

driver100

stickguy said:

They have probably been burned, expensively, on a car like that and just not willing to take the risk.

If the trunk piece needs power, that usually just taps into the wire to the back up light. If the head unit is a box, keep it on the dash or in the console, and plug into the 12v outlet. Pick it up when you need it.

If you want something totally hidden and integrated, gonna have to pay up. If you just want a cheap way to see behind you, this should do it. Or you lived without it this long, just keep winging it!

That is what I am thinking. On youtube these guys know all the tricks.....the Geek guys don't want to do anything that could really mess up a car.

I don't want to plug in to cig lighter when I want to use it......too crude.

I am learning to wing it....getting used to it. But, there are things you can't see without a camera, so would like to do it. The guys on youtube know what they are doing....they install right into the infotainment system, but they know what to remove, where to run wires, what the settings have to be.....etc.

This one is 1 minute 30 seconds.
https://youtu.be/4QCs_Qi4q3s

driver100

houdini2 said:

nyccarguy said:

driver100 said:

I think they don't want to tap into the wiring that is there. My IT guy said they pay The Geeks minimum wages, they probably don't want to cause a major problem.
Maybe one of these other indie guys is more knowledgeable and could do it. The Geek said he can't do a Mercedes after about 2000 because he will be tripping codes.
Anyone know if it can be done?

Actually, we have been here for 6 weeks and I am getting used to not having a camera, but there are times when it would be a nice extra to have.

Believe me, I'm all for making up excuses to buy (or lease) a new car. I was in Costco a few weeks ago and swear they had a "wireless" backup camera that was integrated into a license plate frame.

He would still have to pay someone to install it.

Exactly. I will pay to have it installed....just don't want them to mess up the car.

I just tried the dealer where I bought the car.....they won't add a backup camera. They do have some nice 2017s with 17000 miles for $27500 with camera and blindspot warnings....tempting!

stickguy

suydam said:

Now that I think of it, it probably was more like $8k. It was a very basic car — MT, roll up windows. Very fun to drive! I know it was less than a Honda Ciivic which we decided we couldn’t afford.

We had the fancy model. AC, and moonroof! I think power windows but don’t quote me on that. Also shopped a civic. 323 was a better deal, more stuff less money, just as nice. And a huge trunk.

stickguy

If you plan to keep the 2014 another 5 years, just pay the high end audio guy and be done with it. If you really want the new one, go trade it in. Either way you get the camera! But blind spot and rear cross path, one you get used to that, hard to go back!

The 2017 is the newer design, so lots of other changes. Much fancier car.

Michaell

1988 - we bought our Trooper II that year for about $17K, plus TTT. Was a dealer demo.

Spoiler - the Trooper will be the subject of my next COAL post on Saturday

@graphicguy - thanks for the info on PR. Wife is sick and tired of the winters here in CO, so we're looking for someplace warm. She's not a big fan of planes, so not sure that PR would work - we're thinking either AZ or NM for the winters. But, that is still some years off. I like the idea of cheap real estate, however.

suydam

andres3 said:

suydam said:

Now that I think of it, it probably was more like $8k. It was a very basic car — MT, roll up windows. Very fun to drive! I know it was less than a Honda Ciivic which we decided we couldn’t afford.

Lots of things were INITIALLY cheaper than a Civic, including my Neon. As for long term costs, that's another story.

In this case the 323 was a real winner. A great car, very little in repairs. It did need a new clutch after teaching my oldest son how to drive a stick shift. I’ve had great experiences with Mazdas since then too.

fintail

But would that be worth it to really get it right? Sometimes you get what you pay for. I've seen enough iffy installs over the years to be leery of shopping by price locally. If you're keeping the car, do it right. Your car is a W204.

I was joking with the AMG, finding the most insanely priced example. Nearly 100K MSRP, nah, depreciation will be painful (and that color'd be a beast to maintain). I suspect someone could get it for no more than 80K with a little negotiation. Tons of normal C300 in loaner fleets and lots of lease returns, one of those CPO would be the way to go, you can even find them in better than base spec.

driver100 said:

I tried one high end shop....5 stars, lots of glowing reviews. They insisted on hardwiring in, using their equipment "to get it right", cost to install $400 plus the equipment.

I like that 2019....I don't think I need an AMG model for 5 months/6000 miles use each year. I don't like the ad in it tells you nothing about the car, unlessl you give them your information. But, one beautiful looking car.