on the EX 6, I just got 24.5mpg on this last tank which had a bit more open highway driving than I normally get. My commute each way to work is 30 miles - 1/2 is usually stop and go that averages 15mph, and the other half is a steady 70-75. Hoping to start seeing 26-27 soon.....
I don't know about you, but I'm addicted to that "trip computer" on the navi system.
In addition to proper "break in", it is VERY important to maintain the vehicle along the way. Change you oil and filter every 3,000 miles. (The oil and filter change intervals, as listed in the "owner's manual", are the minimum levels of acceptable maintenance, and they are far from ideal). If you perform this service yourself, use a high quality oil and a Honda filter. A better alternative would be to let the dealer perform this service, so that all your maintenance records will be in one location, should a warranty issue develop. Have you considered purchasing an extended warranty? New vehicles are VERY expensive to repair. My 2003 Accord has a 7 year 100,000 mile extended warranty. The vehicle is 25 months old, and it already has 45,500 miles on the clock. At this time next year, we will have at least 66,000 miles on this vehicle. ----- Just my opinion.
We have about 9500 miles on our 04 EX V6 Accord. We normally use 89 octane, we have changed to Mobil 1 0W-20 full synthetic oil since 2500 miles. Our somewhat long trip, 85 miles gave us a reading of 33 MPG, about 2 miles of stop and go from that 85 miles. We were going approx. 70-75 MPH on cruise control, had the heat on at 69F, had two other individuals in the vehicle, and a trunk with some misc. items weighing about an additional 40-50 lbs. We were on interstate 80 East heading from PA to NYC, in which this section has many hills. The best we ever seen was 36.8 MPG and that was when the vehicle had about 5000 miles on it and we did about 150 miles mostly hwy. I believe if I continued more hwy driving on a single trip we could easily achieve or even pass the 36.8 MPG, but we have not gotten the opportunity to drive a tank from full to empty with only hwy miles. I hope this helps to answer your question or concern.
Oils, filters and engine tolerance have all improved, yet the 3,000 myth still lingers on ...
On the V6 Honda Accord under "severe conditions" the change interval is 3,750 and under normal it is 7,500 These are already very conservcative, NOT MINIMUM, intervals and there is no reason to go to a shorter interval, it just wastes petroleum resources.
On the I4 the intervals are even longer 5,000 severe and 10,000 miles normal.
Any discussion about extended warranties goes in that thread, not here so I won't belabor my thoughts on that one.
We are considering buying an '00 Accord V6 w/ 53K. (certified) I have never heard of the transmission problems I am reading about here. What would you advise about buying this car? It looked, smelled, and drove perfectly on the test drive. (except the engine light did come on)
The car you are looking at is the 6th genration which had a 200hp V6 and a 4 speed auto. I am not sure how much you want to spend, but if you can afford to go to a 7th genration car (2003 or newer) you get a 240 hp engine and a 5 speed auto. You will actually have more power and better mileage.
However, the 00 Accord is also a good car and 53K is fairly low mileage. You absolutely should not see a check engine light though! Being certified is good ,but are they also providing a warranty ?
There were some transmission problems, but there were not that many. Make sure you check any TSBs and recalls on the particular car you are looking at.
You have a "two problems" with regards to this vehicle purchase. 1st)---- the "engine light is "on". I would not even consider purchasing this vehicle until this problem was diagnosed and repaired, ----2nd) ---you have read about the transmission problems on the Honda Boards, and you are still considering purchasing this vehicle. ---QUESTIONS: ---- What kind of warranty are you getting from the selling Honda dealer? -----In addition to the warranty given to you by the selling Honda dealer, can you purchase an Extended Honda Warranty to cover at least the powertrain on this vehicle to 100,000 miles? -----Has this vehicle already had the transmission replaced by Honda, through the former owner? (The Honda dealer could search the service records based on the Vin. number of the vehicle, and get this information for you).--- Try to get a "print out" of the service work that was done to this vehicle by the dealer. Lots of luck. Keep us informed about this purchase.
You are correct. The check engine light might be a loose gas cap, or it could be an O2 sensor, TPS, Temperature Sensor, Map Sensor, Air Temperature Sensor or any other sensor on the engine. The original posting asked for an opinion. Why not cover all the possibilities? After all, someone is about to spend their hard earned money on this vehicle! Remember, it is "NOT A CRISIS" unless your money is on the line!
In your post #3256 you extol the virtues of your purchase of a seven year 100,000 mile extended warranty. Actually, you purchased an additional four year 64,000 mile warranty beyond your original three year 36,000 Honda warranty for perhaps $900 to $1,200.
According to your mileage figures, you are driving 1,820 miles per month and will hit the 100,000 mile mark in your first 55 months (4.6 years). So much for being covered for seven years. Looks like you paid for 2.4 years during which you will not be covered.
We will not own this vehicle beyond 100,000 miles. This vehicle will be history most likely next Feb.,(when it will be paid off). At that time it will be three years old, and based on our projected use, for next year, it will have about 70,000 + miles on the clock. We will then explore the possibility of trading it for another vehicle. If the numbers are right, we will most probably own a 2006 Accord or another Honda product. If the numbers ar not to our liking, we will keep the 2003 Accord till it has 98,000 miles on the clock, and then trade it. That will most likely put us into a 2007 Accord. We paid $875.00 for the warranty. Had we not purchased the extended warranty, we would have been driving without a warranty at this point in time, and the vehicle is 25 months old. This is not something that we want to do in the real world of high cost vehicle repair. If you want to purchase the 2003 Accord, when we are ready to trade it, just let us know, and we will give your name and phone number to the Honda dealer. You can then purchase the vehicle "as is", and you know from my postings that I have all the service receipts, the oil and filter was changed every 3,000 miles, and all the work was performed by the selling dealer. As an example of my service schedule for this vehicle, I presently have a service appointment in April for the following: Oil & filter service, Trans Fluid service, Brake inspection / repair (if necessary) & brake fluid flush, Power steering fluid change, Engine coolant change and Tire rotation. We plan on doing extensive driving from April to Sept.. So, as you can see, anyone who purchases our vehicle, (when we turn it into the dealer), will get a vehicle that has been given "state of the art" preventive maintenance. Are you interested in this vehicle when we are ready to trade?
No thanks Gregory. I leased my 2004 Accord from the same dealer in Mahwah. I'll have the benefit of the original warranty for the first 36 months of my 41 month lease and will not have any qualms about what may or may not occur for those last five months. I have followed the manufacturers' service interval recommendations for every vehicle that I've owned (since 1959). I've never had any reason to do otherwise. Lubrication has never been an issue except for our first vehicle that was purchased used, a 1956 DeSoto in 1958. At that point I swore off buying used cars.
I'm sure that whoever ends up with your 2003 Accord will be very satisfied.
Good post on the analysis of extended warranty! Now to carry it a step further.
How many times have you used your extend warranty and how much warranty cost did you save?
What percentage rate did you use to figure the future value ( time value of money) for the $875 you paided up front?
An most important bottom line, would it have cost you more or less so far with or without the extended warranty ? In otherword did the extended warranty pay off for you?
Blane, we will be at the dealer on the 18 of April, (first thing in the morning). We have a "loaner vehicle reserved". If by any chance you are going to have your vehicle serviced at that time, it would be great to meet you. Then, over a cup of coffee, (at Dunkin Donuts), we can really discuss the topic of vehicle maintenance. Have a GREAT day! ------------Greg
The customer always loses on extended warranties. Just as the name (6 year, 100K) omits that the first 3 yr 36000 are already covered, they company makes money almost all the time. It's like life insurance. You're buying some security and paying for the security.
I just stash some more cash in a mutual fund and if I have a need, I write a check. I've come out far ahead on expenses after warranty, but then I've bought cars that have a dependability reputation. The Accord shouldn't have a problem that's worth the bet against yourself with an extended warranty. But it buys piece of mind for many folks.
Having a warranty is about "peace of mind". We do alot of traveling up and down the East Coast. With an extended warranty on the vehicle, any major component, (that has a high price tag), is covered. In addition, we can have the service / repair done at any Honda dealer along the way. If service records need to be accessed, they can be retrieved from our selling Honda dealer. The Accord at the present time has 46,000+ miles on the clock. At this point in time, we have not used the extended warranty, but we still have 54,000 miles to go on this contract, and anything can happen. Since we paid $875.00 for the warranty, one AC compressor repair, Alternator repair or Computer Command Control system repair will pay for the initial cost. Is it possible that nothing will go wrong with the vehicle? ----- YES! ----But I am not willing to take that chance, since the cost of a transmission replacement runs somewhere between $3,000.00 and and up! Our vehicle is only 25 months old, and if we did not have the warranty we would be "on our own" in terms of major repairs. This could be VERY expensive on a long trip. If we trade our vehicle at the end of three years, it costs us $291.66 per year for the extended warranty. If we keep the vehicle for four years, it will have cost us $218.75 per year. This is not a lot of money, when compared against the cost of a transmission failure.
Gregory, you are obsessive with the maintenance of your Honda. You go far beyond what most people do yet you seem to live in constant fear you will have problems. You have a plan in effect to get rid of this extremely well maintained Honda at a predetermined time.
Since you take such pains to maintain this car, why not simply keep it for the long haul? A car like this can easilly go 250,000 miles and more without major troubles.
Or, since you are determined to follow your replacement schedule, why not just follow the normal maintenance schedule. Why over-maintain something you only plan to get rid of with relative low miles on it?
I purchased my '03 Accord Ex in June '03. I drove it back to Michigan that year for my 40th high school reunion. The car is absolutely great on the highway. Very comfortable, great fit and finish, and great mph 32 highway for a V6. Those are the pluses. On the minus side I will start with dealership in New Britain,Ct. where I purchased the car. I would not take my lawnmower there for service. Long story. Second, is the transmittion. The automatic shifts with too much jerky hesitation between 1st and 2nd gear. Third, the audio and cruse control buttons on the steering column should be lit up for ease of night use. Fourth, touch-up paint does not match making little dings very noticeable.
Isellhondas,---- you seem to be obsessive about keeping Honda vehicles beyond 100,000 miles.-------- As a consumer of things, I simply do not want to own a vehicle beyond 100,000 miles. In addition, I subscribe to the philosophy that you only live once, and this present experience is not a rehearsal for the real thing, so as such, I want to enjoy all the "creature comforts" that both my wife and I can afford in the "here and now", because once they close the box, it is TOO LATE to enjoy anything. ( I do not want to leave anything in my will to family. I want to spend it all!) I love owning a new vehicle, and I love to own a vehilce that looks good and performs properly. As a sales person for Honda, you should want people like me. After all, we are turning in vehicles that are well maintained,(good resale value for you), and in addition we are regular customers every three or four years. Our vehicle purchase process takes less than two hours. We deal with the same salesperson and the same F&I person. We select the vehicle from stock. (YES, we walk the new car lot with the sales person). We then drive the selected vehicle for about a half hour, and if everything is "ok", we make the purchase. The F&I person doesn't even try to sell us any extras, outside of our extended warranty. On my wife's 2004 Civic, we made the dealer change the Firestone tires.
I'm sorry, I am too much of a car nut and new innovator! While I like Acura/Honda very much I have to seriously look at the competition.
I used to also be a strong Toyota/Lexus buyer, but some Prius Customer Service dealings have probably burned those bridges beyond repair. Simialr to my dealings with Ford cusotmer service many years ago , but that's another interesting story ...
However, I am like you in that 3 years is a long time for me, except I am trying to break the habit becuase I know how really economically unsound it is. I guess that is why I am also keeping a 5-speed manual shift Lexus ES300 that has 89K miles, Midas lifetime brakes, new tires and will only need oil changes for another 30K miles of driving.
But really, buying from the same place, buying off the lot ... That is just too much for me to fathom.
You know, however, as meticulious as you maintain a car, you could advertise that fact on eBay as a selling point and get a lot, lot more for you slightly used cars.
GoodLuck GregoryC1 you sure have interesting posts
I was catching up on this thread (have an 03 LX sedan.) and saw that you were not planning to get another Honda/Acura product because of minor/not so minor issues and annoyances - correct?
We will then explore the possibility of trading it for another vehicle. If the numbers are right, we will most probably own a 2006 Accord or another Honda product.
I am interested what made you change your mind. Thanks!
You found out a lot of other cars besides just Honda have gone eliminating the passenger door key-hole lock.
Remember how upset you were when you found out that there wasn't a passenger door key-hole so that you could unlock the car from the passenger side with a key.
Yes, Gregory, I like people like you who trade cars often. I still wonder why you would do all of that extra maintenance, use marvel oil etc since you will never taste the fruits of your extra expense and extra maintenance.
I asked the dealer to check the on "engine light". I also noted discussion on this board about potential problems with the '00 V-6 engine, but am not convinced that the problem is widespread.
Here is the response we got:
"The service department did get the Accord in yesterday. The check engine light was caused by a bad EGR valve and they replaced the valve. They are going to get the car back in this afternoon so we can take a look at the exhaust system. You are correct on the brake measurements half or better or they have to be replaced I checked with service, they replaced the back rotors and pads but the front checked out fine.Yes if the timing belt breaks under the drivetrain warranty the collateral damage is covered.The honda care warranty extends the nonpowertrain coverage to the 100,000 miles and the 7 year date.Yes the seat repair guy will be here on Monday I called him this morning to verify his schedule.Service knows of no problems with this vintage V6 engine.I will check on floor mats and get back to you ."
My wife and I are also debating whether to purchase the additional "comprehensive" Honda car warranty which would run the same course in mileage and time as the certified power train protection. The price is $600.
We average 25K driving per year.
Any further input is appreciated. You all have been a big help already.
Thanks for the invitation for the 18th Gregory. Unfortunately I've still got to work weekdays. Incidentally, I no longer use Mahwah's club loaners since I use Honda of Nanuet for service.
I would assume for ease of use. Hydraulics make for a lighter clutch. The more power, the higher the pressure required on the clutch. After a certain power level, hydraulics become a requirement if you want a light clutch pedal.
AS you know, from previous postings, you and I do not agree on many things related to vehicle maintenance. But, that is "ok" because everyone is entitled to their opinions on a given subject. Since you have first hand knowledge with regards to selling Honda vehicles, let me pose this scenario.
Recognizing that you believe that the Honda drivetrain can easily reach 200,000 miles given the maintenance as listed in the owner's manual,----why doesn't Honda offer a two (2) part Extended Warranty / Service Contract to cover the basic drivetrain and related electronics for a total of ten (10)years or 200,000 miles, whichever comes first. The first part of the package would a 7 year 100,000 mile comprehensive extended warranty, with pre-paid recommended oil and filter changes, at a Honda dealer as part of the package. The eight to tenth year part of the package would just be an Extended Warranty on the drivetrain and related electronics, together with pre-paid oil and filter changes at prescribed intervals at the dealerships.
If I could purchase a Powertrain Warranty for the second 100,000 miles, based on my service schedule, I would jump at the opportunity, and I would keep the car for a second 100,000 miles.
This suggestion should't be a problem with the Honda Corp. if they have faith in their products and their recommended service intervals. I would pay a "premium fee" of a $1,000 for an additional 100,000 mile powertrain coverage. What do you think of this suggestion.
_________________________________________________
The outline of the New Vehicle Warranty would look something like this: PART 1 Basic manufacturer's warranty of 3 years / 36,000 miles, (which ever comes first).
PART 2 Extended comprehensive warranty 7 years / 100,000 mile package, (from the date of new vehicle purchase), with pre-paid oil and filter changes at the Honda dealer, (at intervals in the owner's manual)
PART 3 Powertrain Extended Warranty, (8th-to-the-10th year), to a maximum of 200,000 miles,(whichever comes first). This part of the package would include pre-paid oil & filter changes, (at the dealer)at intervals as outlined in the owner's manual.
This extended warranty packages would benefit both the dealer and the customer. Because of the pre-paid oil and filter service, the dealer will have a steady flow of vehicles through the service department, and they will have the opportunity to sell needed service at competitive prices. It would be a good opportunity for both the customer and the dealer.
If the covered vehicle is traded or sold prior to the 10 year 200,000 interval, the warranty could follow the vehicle. This would make a high mileage well maintained vehicle an attractive purchase. -----What do you think about this idea?
But they do have rebates on their cars. Just read Honda Accord: Prices Paid and ...
They have rebates to the dealers. They just don't let the public know the rebates are there as incentives. That leaves room for the dealers to maximize their net.
I agree, most people would not be interested in such a program.
I do not believe in extended warranties/service contracts on any product. I would much rather bank the money I saved by not buying the extended warranty and self insure against these issues. These days, very few vehicles ever have an expensive problem in the first 100k of miles anyway, and after that, I still would self insure.
I prefer to change my own oil for example. It is more convenient for me than making an appointment, driving there and sitting around reading stale magazines, when I can go out and do the job myself in about 1/2 hour of time and about $8 worth of supplies. Why would I want to pay prepaid maintenance? What if the car got totaled in an accident, would Honda refund my remnaining unused maintenance and warranty contract? Fat chance.
I for one appreciate the way Honda does business and it is why I continue to buy Hondas. I get a reliable vehicle with great resale value and do not have to help defer the cost of all the warranty and other incentives for other people. I am more than confident that by changing fluids (transmission, brake, power steering, coolant, differential) on a regular basis that exceeds manufacturer recommendations that I will not likely need any warranty service. My first 4 Hondas have not needed any unscheduled repairs or maintenance. I know it is heresy but I don't even use Honda transmission fluid and I use a 5W-30 oil (that I changed after only 1,000 miles at break-in) with extended oil change intervals (based upon used oil analysis). I don't even wait for the 3yr/36K to expire before doing these things. My cars run great, last forever, and I sleep great every night. My Honda dealer practically begs me to trade in my cars because I keep them looking and running so well but they realize I can get much more for them by selling them myself. I am so anal about my car's appearance that I won't let them touch my car's exterior.....I remove the white paint protection film myself from new vehicles and I don't allow dealer decals on my vehicle - even if they offer to pay me for the advertising. I track every penny I spend on my vehicles and I assure you that all have been extremely cost efficient vehicles to date.
Rebates to dealers vs. a commercial screaming REBATE are two entirely different animals.
As many a salesperson will attest, many customers don't do enough research to find these "rebates". If Honda needed to do so, I'm sure they would stretch the warranty and offer rebates. Obviously they aren't "there" yet.
I also have a 1999 Honda Accord in the dark green and just today I noticed two whitish faded spots on the top and the trunk. The areas are about three inches square. Whatever happened with your situation? Is anyone else seeing this with the paint, and if so, did Honda do anything? Thanks.
Money reducing the cost of the car is money reducing the cost of the car. Whether they tell the public with advertisements or slip the money to the dealer who may or may not give all of it in lower prices to the buyers is still money to push sales of the cars with ads as in the Chicago papers mentioned in Honda Accord Prices Paid.
My concern is that the customer ends up paying more than they need if they don't know the money is being put on the hoods to reduce the real cost.
"Money reducing the cost of the car is money reducing the cost of the car"
But if you don't do the research, you won't know that there is "extra" savings. If you walk in to the dealership wanting a "invoice" deal, you still are getting the shaft if you don't know that the going price is $1000 less than that.
The difference between rebates and dealer cash is that the cash doesn't diminish the perceived value of the car. There are many people who don't know anything about haggling. If more people did the homework, Edmunds wouldn't be able to handle the band width.
Why does someone paying more for a car than they should concern YOU? There are more than enough outlets for information on purchasing a car. Anyone who goes into the dealership unprepared deserves the deal they end up with.
I believe this strand started with Honda doesn't have to do incentives. I responded that they are doing incentives and they are 'obscured' from public view so that some consumers don't know the full amount of discount to the dealer.
Honda does have incentives going. That is the point.
The strand started with post 3287 with Greg's warranty post.
I said they don't extend the warranty for the same reason they don't offer 0% or actual rebates.
As far as "incentives". That's again is an entirely different animal. There are many "spiffs" given by the manufacturer thet aren't divulged at all. But then no one said "incentives". My post 3288 specifically said rebates and blanket 0% financing. Advertised items that Honda normally doesn't do.
Incentives I did say. I said rebates, incentives, etc., are all items to lower cost of car to push to sales. Honda does have to do that apparently because they _are_ doing it.
There IS a difference between dealer cash (not usually disclosed in ads) and customer rebates (always in ads) and 0.0% financing (always in ads). The dealer CAN opt to use the dealer cash to advertise lower prices but dealer cash usually isn't widely known about therefore it has nowhere near the impact the other more widely advertised incentives do.
Excellent points! There is also dealer hold-back which a lot of people ( I won't go as far as to say most) don't know about. It is typically 0-3%, depending on the particular car vendor. Honda usually runs about 2%. So even without any other incentives: dealer cash, customer rebates, and low financing a delaer still has another $400 to play with on a car with a true dealer invoice of $20,000 Aditionally you will find all sorts or extra fees or add-ons. For example some delaers will tell you they require Window Etching and a protection package for an addtional $499 on your part ,when it only costs them maybe $99, ching-ching another $400. The there are doucment fees and administration fees and sometime even ADM on popular, limited supply models.
Watch out for the options Some options can be purchase after you buy the car for a significantly lower price. For example H and A accesories, Handa.com, a Edmund sponsor sells OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer, in order words the same exact Honda part) for 1/2 to 2/3 what a Honda dealer will charge you, before installation.
There are always at least two sides to every story, and sometimes there are more than two. The problem with new cars is that they are very expensive, and people are very stressed over this major purchase. The stress level could be decreased, if both the dealer and the manufacturer would put themselves in the shoes of the consumer, and deal with the customer from that point of view. Customer want to be assured that the company will stand behind their product, and that if a problem arises, they will have their vehicle serviced in a professional manner. Many times, you read about dealers who tell customers that there is no problem with a particular vehicle, then shortly after the warranty expires, the issue, (in question), is then recognized as a problem, at the expense of the customer. Tanya
Comments
Somehting might be wrong with your car and they don't want to admit it and have to fix it.
Good Luck.
MidCow
I don't know about you, but I'm addicted to that "trip computer" on the navi system.
We have about 9500 miles on our 04 EX V6 Accord. We normally use 89 octane, we have changed to Mobil 1 0W-20 full synthetic oil since 2500 miles. Our somewhat long trip, 85 miles gave us a reading of 33 MPG, about 2 miles of stop and go from that 85 miles. We were going approx. 70-75 MPH on cruise control, had the heat on at 69F, had two other individuals in the vehicle, and a trunk with some misc. items weighing about an additional 40-50 lbs. We were on interstate 80 East heading from PA to NYC, in which this section has many hills. The best we ever seen was 36.8 MPG and that was when the vehicle had about 5000 miles on it and we did about 150 miles mostly hwy. I believe if I continued more hwy driving on a single trip we could easily achieve or even pass the 36.8 MPG, but we have not gotten the opportunity to drive a tank from full to empty with only hwy miles. I hope this helps to answer your question or concern.
On the V6 Honda Accord under "severe conditions" the change interval is 3,750 and under normal it is 7,500 These are already very conservcative, NOT MINIMUM, intervals and there is no reason to go to a shorter interval, it just wastes petroleum resources.
On the I4 the intervals are even longer 5,000 severe and 10,000 miles normal.
Any discussion about extended warranties goes in that thread, not here so I won't belabor my thoughts on that one.
YMMV,
MidCow
However, the 00 Accord is also a good car and 53K is fairly low mileage. You absolutely should not see a check engine light though! Being certified is good ,but are they also providing a warranty ?
There were some transmission problems, but there were not that many. Make sure you check any TSBs and recalls on the particular car you are looking at.
Good Luck,
MidCow
The transmission problems were isolated and few. things like ths get overblown in forums like this one.
If it's a Honda Certified car you have a 7 year, 100,000 mile powertrain warranty so you have 47,000 miles left on that!
Some people make a crisis out of everything it would seem.
Again consider a 2003 with a 5-speed automatic
Thanks,
MidCow
In your post #3256 you extol the virtues of your purchase of a seven year 100,000 mile extended warranty. Actually, you purchased an additional four year 64,000 mile warranty beyond your original three year 36,000 Honda warranty for perhaps $900 to $1,200.
According to your mileage figures, you are driving 1,820 miles per month and will hit the 100,000 mile mark in your first 55 months (4.6 years). So much for being covered for seven years. Looks like you paid for 2.4 years during which you will not be covered.
I'm sure that whoever ends up with your 2003 Accord will be very satisfied.
Good post on the analysis of extended warranty! Now to carry it a step further.
How many times have you used your extend warranty and how much warranty cost did you save?
What percentage rate did you use to figure the future value ( time value of money) for the $875 you paided up front?
An most important bottom line, would it have cost you more or less so far with or without the extended warranty ? In otherword did the extended warranty pay off for you?
I always appreciate your comments and insight.
YMMV,
MidCow - The Manual Shift Man
I just stash some more cash in a mutual fund and if I have a need, I write a check. I've come out far ahead on expenses after warranty, but then I've bought cars that have a dependability reputation. The Accord shouldn't have a problem that's worth the bet against yourself with an extended warranty. But it buys piece of mind for many folks.
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
Gregory, you are obsessive with the maintenance of your Honda. You go far beyond what most people do yet you seem to live in constant fear you will have problems. You have a plan in effect to get rid of this extremely well maintained Honda at a predetermined time.
Since you take such pains to maintain this car, why not simply keep it for the long haul? A car like this can easilly go 250,000 miles and more without major troubles.
Or, since you are determined to follow your replacement schedule, why not just follow the normal maintenance schedule. Why over-maintain something you only plan to get rid of with relative low miles on it?
Makes no sense, to me anyway.
The extended warranty didn't pay for itself but gave you peace of mind.
Bank,Save,Preventive Maint,Self-Insure
$M$i$d$C$o$w$ $$$$ ahead $$$$
P.S. While not completely off-topic, this discussion had not been completely on-topic either realizing their is a whole thread on extended warranties
Isellhondas,---- you seem to be obsessive about keeping Honda vehicles beyond 100,000 miles.-------- As a consumer of things, I simply do not want to own a vehicle beyond 100,000 miles. In addition, I subscribe to the philosophy that you only live once, and this present experience is not a rehearsal for the real thing, so as such, I want to enjoy all the "creature comforts" that both my wife and I can afford in the "here and now", because once they close the box, it is TOO LATE to enjoy anything. ( I do not want to leave anything in my will to family. I want to spend it all!) I love owning a new vehicle, and I love to own a vehilce that looks good and performs properly. As a sales person for Honda, you should want people like me. After all, we are turning in vehicles that are well maintained,(good resale value for you), and in addition we are regular customers every three or four years. Our vehicle purchase process takes less than two hours. We deal with the same salesperson and the same F&I person. We select the vehicle from stock. (YES, we walk the new car lot with the sales person). We then drive the selected vehicle for about a half hour, and if everything is "ok", we make the purchase. The F&I person doesn't even try to sell us any extras, outside of our extended warranty. On my wife's 2004 Civic, we made the dealer change the Firestone tires.
I'm sorry, I am too much of a car nut and new innovator! While I like Acura/Honda very much I have to seriously look at the competition.
I used to also be a strong Toyota/Lexus buyer, but some Prius Customer Service dealings have probably burned those bridges beyond repair. Simialr to my dealings with Ford cusotmer service many years ago , but that's another interesting story ...
However, I am like you in that 3 years is a long time for me, except I am trying to break the habit becuase I know how really economically unsound it is. I guess that is why I am also keeping a 5-speed manual shift Lexus ES300 that has 89K miles, Midas lifetime brakes, new tires and will only need oil changes for another 30K miles of driving.
But really, buying from the same place, buying off the lot ... That is just too much for me to fathom.
You know, however, as meticulious as you maintain a car, you could advertise that fact on eBay as a selling point and get a lot, lot more for you slightly used cars.
GoodLuck GregoryC1 you sure have interesting posts
Good Day,
MidCow the Manual Shift Man
We will then explore the possibility of trading it for another vehicle. If the numbers are right, we will most probably own a 2006 Accord or another Honda product.
I am interested what made you change your mind. Thanks!
Remember how upset you were when you found out that there wasn't a passenger door key-hole so that you could unlock the car from the passenger side with a key.
Hondas are great!
MidCow
Keep it up...we like selling cars!
Here is the response we got:
"The service department did get the Accord in yesterday. The check engine light was caused by
a bad EGR valve and they replaced the valve. They are going to get the car back in this afternoon so we can take a look at the exhaust system. You are correct on the brake measurements half or better or they have to be replaced I checked with service, they replaced the back rotors and pads but the front checked out fine.Yes if the timing belt breaks under the drivetrain warranty the collateral damage is covered.The honda care
warranty extends the nonpowertrain coverage to the 100,000 miles and the 7 year date.Yes the seat repair guy will be here on Monday I called him this morning to verify his schedule.Service knows of no problems with this vintage V6 engine.I will check on floor mats and get back to you ."
My wife and I are also debating whether to purchase the additional "comprehensive" Honda car warranty which would run the same course in mileage and time as the certified power train protection. The price is $600.
We average 25K driving per year.
Any further input is appreciated. You all have been a big help already.
Perhaps another time.
Whoever buys your used car will be the benefactor.
Whatever floats your boat. I take extra good care of my cars too and usually get bored with them after a few years so I guess I do much the same.
Recognizing that you believe that the Honda drivetrain can easily reach 200,000 miles given the maintenance as listed in the owner's manual,----why doesn't Honda offer a two (2) part Extended Warranty / Service Contract to cover the basic drivetrain and related electronics for a total of ten (10)years or 200,000 miles, whichever comes first. The first part of the package would a 7 year 100,000 mile comprehensive extended warranty, with pre-paid recommended oil and filter changes, at a Honda dealer as part of the package. The eight to tenth year part of the package would just be an Extended Warranty on the drivetrain and related electronics, together with pre-paid oil and filter changes at prescribed intervals at the dealerships.
If I could purchase a Powertrain Warranty for the second 100,000 miles, based on my service schedule, I would jump at the opportunity, and I would keep the car for a second 100,000 miles.
This suggestion should't be a problem with the Honda Corp. if they have faith in their products and their recommended service intervals. I would pay a "premium fee" of a $1,000 for an additional 100,000 mile powertrain coverage. What do you think of this suggestion.
_________________________________________________
The outline of the New Vehicle Warranty would look something like this:
PART 1
Basic manufacturer's warranty of 3 years / 36,000 miles, (which ever comes first).
PART 2
Extended comprehensive warranty 7 years / 100,000 mile package, (from the date of new vehicle purchase), with pre-paid oil and filter changes at the Honda dealer, (at intervals in the owner's manual)
PART 3
Powertrain Extended Warranty, (8th-to-the-10th year), to a maximum of 200,000 miles,(whichever comes first). This part of the package would include pre-paid oil & filter changes, (at the dealer)at intervals as outlined in the owner's manual.
This extended warranty packages would benefit both the dealer and the customer. Because of the pre-paid oil and filter service, the dealer will have a steady flow of vehicles through the service department, and they will have the opportunity to sell needed service at competitive prices. It would be a good opportunity for both the customer and the dealer.
If the covered vehicle is traded or sold prior to the 10 year 200,000 interval, the warranty could follow the vehicle. This would make a high mileage well maintained vehicle an attractive purchase. -----What do you think about this idea?
Those that offer such things have no more confidence in their vehicles, they are just trying to "move the metal" as they say.
But they do have rebates on their cars. Just read Honda Accord: Prices Paid and ...
They have rebates to the dealers. They just don't let the public know the rebates are there as incentives. That leaves room for the dealers to maximize their net.
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
You are definatly an exception.
I do not believe in extended warranties/service contracts on any product. I would much rather bank the money I saved by not buying the extended warranty and self insure against these issues. These days, very few vehicles ever have an expensive problem in the first 100k of miles anyway, and after that, I still would self insure.
I prefer to change my own oil for example. It is more convenient for me than making an appointment, driving there and sitting around reading stale magazines, when I can go out and do the job myself in about 1/2 hour of time and about $8 worth of supplies. Why would I want to pay prepaid maintenance? What if the car got totaled in an accident, would Honda refund my remnaining unused maintenance and warranty contract? Fat chance.
As many a salesperson will attest, many customers don't do enough research to find these "rebates". If Honda needed to do so, I'm sure they would stretch the warranty and offer rebates. Obviously they aren't "there" yet.
My concern is that the customer ends up paying more than they need if they don't know the money is being put on the hoods to reduce the real cost.
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
But if you don't do the research, you won't know that there is "extra" savings. If you walk in to the dealership wanting a "invoice" deal, you still are getting the shaft if you don't know that the going price is $1000 less than that.
The difference between rebates and dealer cash is that the cash doesn't diminish the perceived value of the car. There are many people who don't know anything about haggling. If more people did the homework, Edmunds wouldn't be able to handle the band width.
Why does someone paying more for a car than they should concern YOU? There are more than enough outlets for information on purchasing a car. Anyone who goes into the dealership unprepared deserves the deal they end up with.
Honda does have incentives going. That is the point.
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
I said they don't extend the warranty for the same reason they don't offer 0% or actual rebates.
As far as "incentives". That's again is an entirely different animal. There are many "spiffs" given by the manufacturer thet aren't divulged at all. But then no one said "incentives". My post 3288 specifically said rebates and blanket 0% financing. Advertised items that Honda normally doesn't do.
Have a good day.
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
Excellent points! There is also dealer hold-back which a lot of people ( I won't go as far as to say most) don't know about. It is typically 0-3%, depending on the particular car vendor. Honda usually runs about 2%. So even without any other incentives: dealer cash, customer rebates, and low financing a delaer still has another $400 to play with on a car with a true dealer invoice of $20,000 Aditionally you will find all sorts or extra fees or add-ons. For example some delaers will tell you they require Window Etching and a protection package for an addtional $499 on your part ,when it only costs them maybe $99, ching-ching another $400. The there are doucment fees and administration fees and sometime even ADM on popular, limited supply models.
Watch out for the options Some options can be purchase after you buy the car for a significantly lower price. For example H and A accesories, Handa.com, a Edmund sponsor sells OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer, in order words the same exact Honda part) for 1/2 to 2/3 what a Honda dealer will charge you, before installation.
Caveat Emptor,
MidCow
cruis'n in 6th,
MidCow