Yeah, okay, and the labor to install and the extra fittings you need, and hoses perhaps and coolant and you're right where I said you'd be. And you'd be bringing your own part to the repair shop, which as you know they don't like.
Now really, how many 750iL owners install their own radiators? The "world" isn't like us, you know.
If you don't do any work yourself, and you don't join BMWCCA for parts discounts, you'll find even routine maintenance on this car quite expensive.
So a new radiator with labor might be $1,300, new power brake booster with labor around $1100, pads and rotors, probably $1200--$1800 with labor. right and left catalytic converters about $600 each + labor.
These are a VERY nice ride, so bring your rabbit's foot and maybe you'll get lucky. But if say you lose a transmission or blow a head gasket, you just junk the car.
A new radiator is $400 OEM Hawk HPS pads run around $250 for both axles, $400 for four Centric rotors Cats are expensive; that's why they make spark plug anti-foulers Transmissions tend to be robust- assuming you drain/refill the ATF every 50k-60k miles. The Mechatronics seal is a major known issues; not horribly expensive to replace during a drain/fill. The N62 engine is the major liability; VANOS, the coolant transfer pipe, valve cover/timing chain gaskets, and the garbage secondary air system are where you will usually find issues. I'd avoid a car with the electronic suspension options as well. On this car, the borderline illiteracy of the owner would give me pause. Me, if I wanted an E65 I'd buy the best one I could find and stick $6k or so in the bank for the issues. I'd also take it to a good dealer to verify all software was up to date. That said, I MUCH prefer the E38 Sport; much better looking, less fussy, and more fun to drive.
Everything you posted though is based either on good luck or a lot of parts hustling and DIY. Quoting parts prices is like comparing the price of a lamb chop in a supermarket to ordering a lamb dinner at a fancy restaurant.
Most BMW 750 owners are going to be "dining out".
For the radiator prices I Googled the OEM part number: 17117519209. You can get a Behr radiator for under $200. Brakes? Prices are from Tirerack.com. That's just using a little common sense- it's hardly "good luck" or "hustling."
Yeah, okay, and the labor to install and the extra fittings you need, and hoses perhaps and coolant and you're right where I said you'd be. And you'd be bringing your own part to the repair shop, which as you know they don't like.
Now really, how many 750iL owners install their own radiators? The "world" isn't like us, you know.
I'm NOT talking DIY; a good indie shop(like mine) would price shop suitable radiators- so $400 plus two hours labor-at most-gets you a new radiator installed for $800 or less. Ditto for brakes at around $1000. Maybe the numbers you throw out are accurate for California shops, but where I live those quotes are borderline insane.
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
back to the old plan at the moment. Flip the Elantra to the kid, and go from there for me. Just have to work out the best logistics. Thinking we will just pay it off now to get the title, then let her have it, and work out the details later. Will see if Hyundai credit will just change her to be the primary so she can take over the current note. Other option (cleaner) is to have her just get a loan. probably through work since she now works for a big bank, so likely has good financing as a work benefit.
just have to figure out a price that works. We will end up subsidizing some of it (graduation present) I am sure.
so, if the details come together Monday I may be downloading that Honcker app after all!
and my wife, so excited to be shopping again. Well, maybe not. Helps that she is really not a huge fan of Ellie (daughter's name for the Elantra).
We're at $165/hour, so the prices aren't insane for here. Brakes and rotors around $1800. Even our Indy shops work off very high overhead. Naturally if you owned a Toyota, you have a lot more options.
I don’t have Honckr because it isn’t available here.
You can continue your duties as BLHM (Board Lease Hackr Monitor). It will be a good comparison to see how it compares to some of the LH deals and brokers.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
We're at $165/hour, so the prices aren't insane for here. Brakes and rotors around $1800. Even our Indy shops work off very high overhead. Naturally if you owned a Toyota, you have a lot more options.
I think that the California location really skews the estimate; I've mentioned before about how Santa Monica BMW wanted $1,105 for the identical services on my old X3 that only cost $374 at my Kentucky BMW dealer. Oh yeah, Santa Monica told me that I was lucky because they were "running a service special" that week. I guess that meant that they included Vaseline at no added charge.
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
So, wife is all on board here. Had a nice chat over a beer at a microbrewery about options. Somehow I even got her convinced that selling the house but renting something temporarily is a good idea (along with cars, she is likely interviewing for a different job which can skew my relo plans).
talked through all the options, and pretty much settled on getting something that will become the travel and every day car, relegating the RDX back to spare car duty. Having been using that all the time now makes us realize how outdated the tech is.
so, she is flexible as to what we get. Just as long as it is more comfy, has good tech stuff, power seats (both sides) and slightly more "mature". My requirements is at least as fast as the current ride, and super comfy seats. Not making the mistake of compromising on that again.
Sedan or CUV/wagon/hatch are all fine. We did swing through the Volvo dealer and sat in some stuff. The S60, I would get that just for the drivers seat. Did chat with the sales guy, and he said they are done being made so whatever is on the ground is what they will have (but, deals are there for the making). Really a nice car. Great size too. the wife liked it, though we also sat in an S90 and she saw the next style interior. So hard taking the old style! Also sat in an XC60. That, she liked.
did not take her long either when chatting to cut to the "let's just get a new RDX" chase. Though she was also intrigued by the idea of a TLX.
so, we got some looking to do. Not really a rush. We are surviving with one car so far. Plus, she found out this week that for the rest of the year she is full time work from home too, so even less need for 2 cars.
We're at $165/hour, so the prices aren't insane for here. Brakes and rotors around $1800. Even our Indy shops work off very high overhead. Naturally if you owned a Toyota, you have a lot more options.
I think that the California location really skews the estimate; I've mentioned before about how Santa Monica BMW wanted $1,105 for the identical services on my old X3 that only cost $374 at my Kentucky BMW dealer. Oh yeah, Santa Monica told me that I was lucky because they were "running a service special" that week. I guess that meant that they included Vaseline at no added charge.
Well it's just two separate realities in two different zip codes. The prices are what they are. If a person is advised to expect a severe beating on a miled-up 750iL and comes out smellin' like a rose, all the better.
@stickguy : Imho the Elantra Sport is a good idea for your daughter. It's a better car than a Jetta, and in terms of equipment your Elantra Sport is lavish for a person just starting out—powerful engine, upgraded DC transmission, sport suspension, blis, CarPlay, etc.
In terms of your new car, might it make sense financially to trade in the old RDX on a brand-new 2019 RDX? Or is sharing a car a bridge too far? It is for me at this point, and so I understand. If you need two cars, then here's a crazy thought—what if you "cashed out" the old RDX at the Acura dealer and then—sin of sins—started two new leases. Her car could be the new RDX and yours potentially could be more of a sporty sedan, whether a Volvo, BMW, TLX, or something else? If your leases are close to zero due at delivery, then selling the RDX might also allow you to pay off the Elantra Sport? Apologies for having too many ideas for how you can boost your stellar membership in CCBA.
oh, if there is a hare brained, half baked scheme, I have probably thought of it. But one thing we are drawing the line at is 2 payments. 1 is enough. unless, somehow, both were just killer leases. But don't think I want 2 leases at the same time. If the end result was a new RDX say, then the 2nd car would be a much cheaper cash buy truly spare car. The RDX now is also not a great lease option.
But your 2013 RDX is still probably worth a lot. As you say, however, the 2013's tech is really outdated, and so depreciation might accelerate as buyers in the used car market increasingly realize that a 5 year old car is from a completely different era.
Warning, long post ahead … skip if you're not interested in my experience at the BMW driving event today
Today I attended, for the first time, a BMW Driving Event, sponsored by the local dealer. It was a two hour session, split equally between a "long course" and a "short course".
The facility is actually owned by the county, and is primarily used by law enforcement for high speed training and car control.
The "long course" is about a mile in length, and simulates a standard 2 lane road with a double yellow line. A few low speed corners and a decently long straight stretch, interrupted by a slalom with 6-7 gates. Decent elevation changes, too (the video I linked to earlier is the facility). This is in no way a race track - there are no run off areas.
The "short course" is set up for autocross; lots of low speed corners and one short straight stretch.
The local SCCA was out to monitor and time the autocross portion.
We split into two groups, and I went onto the long course first. We had a pace car - 2001 Z3M, driven by one of the SCCA hot shoes. First lap was orientation, 2nd and 3rd laps were at speed. Due to some scheduling delays, our group was only able to do 3 sets of laps. Fortunately, I was able to drive one of them - in an X3 M40i.
Way more fun than I expected - I was able to break 80 MPH on the straight stretch, before the slalom. I was complimented by one of my passengers that I was using an appropriate racing line (there were no professional drivers accompanying us). Unfortunately, the doofus who had the M4 three cars in front of me didn't seem to understand the concept of what the right pedal was for, so I wasn't able to really exercise the car.
I rode shotgun in both the X3 as well as in an X5 50i. The X5, my friends, is a seriously fast SUV. Except the driver nailed one of the slalom cones on the last lap. And, the M550i in front of us was going way faster.
On to the short course. There were 4 vehicles available - the M4 (after the first laps on the long course, the event organizers swapped it and another car out for two others), a 440i 6-speed, an X2 and a 650i GC. I drove the X2 twice, and the 440i and 650i GC once each.
I saw two times for my laps - 46.1 in the X2 and 45.9 in the 650. I kept the 440i in 2nd gear the whole lap, but didn't see a time.
I was pretty impressed with the X2; I pushed it to the limit the second time around and was able to induce a short 4-wheel drift on one of the tighter turns. Startled me into lifting off the throttle for a moment.
The 650 was surprisingly agile, as well, for something so big.
I have a new found appreciation for the "Ultimate Driving Machine" tag line, and I also learned that I'm a lousy passenger when cars are being driven in anger.
Wish I had the opportunity to do another half dozen laps, in the same car. I was starting to learn the course and figure there was time to shave.
All in all, a pretty fun day, even though a bunch of "bros" tried jumping the queue for extra seat time in the M4 and 440i.
@Michaell Wow.. every BMW driving event I've been to has been on public roads. I had a great time, but seriously risked my driver's license. I'd love to get one on a closed course. Sounds like fun!
@Michaell Wow.. every BMW driving event I've been to has been on public roads. I had a great time, but seriously risked my driver's license. I'd love to get one on a closed course. Sounds like fun!
Stick-shift, too!
Regarding the MT 440i - there were a handful of folks who looked like they had never touched a stick shift. Given that I never got the car above 50MPH, I can't tell you a lot about it, but suspect it would be serious fun at speed.
Just did a lease on an ILX for a friend, details a bit foggy now but it was a little over 30K and leased out for $300 with first payment. Dealer claimed they were all in.
I think it was the trim just above “Acura Watch” ..
@Michaell Sounds like a really cool event. I wouldn’t mind trying something like that, but wouldn’t feel comfortable driving a stick. I *can* do it, but never really comfortable with it especially in a new BMW.
I'm a bit of a "conspiracy theorist' too with this stuff. I have not downloaded it yet, so not sure what all you do have to put in.
as always, now that I decided to buy, I have no clue what to get! Should just finally just get the Volvo, the problem being that they are not making the old model so while the deals might be screaming, it gets hard to find something equipped the way I would want.
as always, now that I decided to buy, I have no clue what to get! Should just finally just get the Volvo, the problem being that they are not making the old model so while the deals might be screaming, it gets hard to find something equipped the way I would want.
Plus the moment the new model hits the dealers you will likely be wanting that instead.
I would never buy one. that would be a lease only.
So I downloaded Honcker. Took some poking around to figure out some of the tricks. Did not realize it was a deal where they drop it off in your driveway. Between that and Carvana, even the housebound can buy and sell cars now!
some of the cars, it was not that easy to tell what options they had on them. without seeing the actual unit, or a window sticker, a bit of reverse engineering going on from MSRP. The other issue is that if you don't want a black interior, your choices go way down!
ran a few. Nothing that jumped out yet. Mazda CX5 with the roof package was $272/month. Could live with that I guess. might need to go down and take a test drive.
looking at the quotes though, pretty sure can just treat them like Carmax or Truecar. Take them to the local dealer that has what I want, ask them to beat it, and buy the car!
will go back later and poke around with the steal of the day tab. Just to see what happens.
now I gotta go vacuum the pool before the wife yells at me.
as always, now that I decided to buy, I have no clue what to get! Should just finally just get the Volvo, the problem being that they are not making the old model so while the deals might be screaming, it gets hard to find something equipped the way I would want.
Plus the moment the new model hits the dealers you will likely be wanting that instead.
well, of course. the 2019 S60 is on the build it site now too. Definitely nicer. Absolutely a whole lot pricier!
Not worth much. It's the Turbo Quattro Coupe that everyone wants. Still, at that price you could probably break even on it by attending to those things. There's about $2,000 of room in there to play with.
@graphicguy I think I recall seeing on pictures of your car that you bought it from Superior Acura. Have you ever dealt with their Honda store?
I’ve bought all of my Acuras from Superior. I’ll go to Columbia every once in a while for an oil change just to see if I might want to deal with them. But, coming from Butler County, it’s a little bit of a haul to get to Columbia on Montgomery Rd, which is always busy.
I bought one Honda from Superior (again, that store is a bit of a haul for me, but the Superior dealerships know me and makes things easy for me). I bought two more Accords from Performance Honda....one for me, and later on, one for my former spouse.
Nice people....always treated me well.....straight shooters, at least with me. My father knew the owner (Mike Dever) pretty well and urged me to buy from him if I were looking at a Toyota or Honda. Mike’s made his millions and moved to FL. So, I haven’t seen him in a while.
I drop him an email every once in a while just to see how he’s doing. He always ends his responses with “do you need a car”? Always the sales person. Oddly, I find his Lexus dealerships difficult to work with.
@kyfdx@graphicguy thanks. There is a car at the Honda dealer that caught my eye and I asked my sister or brother-in-law to look at it for me when they get back from Germany later this week. I was going to ask if there was anyone there that you would recommend reaching out to
1997 Honda Prelude Base - 2022 Acura MDX Type S Advance - 2021 Honda Passport Sport - 2006 BMW 330Ci ZHP
That's my issue to, the turbo. Whenever I get into a 4 cylinder vehicle at work, always looking for that turbo boost I get from my Golf. As much as I do like the Hyundai/Kia vehicles, just wish they had more turbo's. My one choice would be the Elantra GT with the 1.6t engine. Like the looks and the hatch design, the interior is o k and glad it's got the up to date tech which I really want plus the safety nannies. As long as we're living here, I need that size vehicle really as leaving mine outside just doesn't sit well with me. But at this point, the Golf is working great. Mechanic said my brakes are just fine, plenty of pad left both front and rear, sent me on my way. So, staying put is just going to have to be the plan for now. Same with my iPhone. Have the 6s Plus but want the 8 Plus badly even though I don't need it. Lost a couple of eBay bids and last night's auction only had one bidder as I honestly forgot what time it was and missed the end. Today, find it back up again so maybe a sign. Offer Up has some interesting deals but never quite follow through. A guy I know who has a phone store says I should only buy on the even years as the bigger updates seem to happen then. But my current 6s Plus is just fine especially with the new battery, so I keep holding back from jumping on an 8 Plus. Guess my logical side of my brain has taken over!!
The Sandman
2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2025 VW GTI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)
@kyfdx@graphicguy thanks. There is a car at the Honda dealer that caught my eye and I asked my sister or brother-in-law to look at it for me when they get back from Germany later this week. I was going to ask if there was anyone there that you would recommend reaching out to
I don't know anyone at the local Honda dealerships, any more. Sorry.
The Beechmont Automile dealerships are pretty easy to deal with (where I got the Tacoma), and they have a Honda dealership. I've also bought/leased from Performance and Kings Automall (when they were Century on Montgomery Road). Both were easy transactions.
daughter graced us with her presence for dinner tonight, so we chatted about cars. Right now, the "working short list" is an S60 (either buying a CPO or leasing a new one) or a TLX (probably buying a slightly used 2017 or 2018). That could be tricky to find. If we go that route, would put some cash down, and just treat it like a permanent fixture (keeping a long, long time) and finance out a ways. Both those cars are popular with the girls. I am throwing a Sonata 2.0T into the mix too, in case Honcker spits out a killer deal on one. Infiniti Q50 might be a dark horse option. Same with a Mazda 6.
Also going to look at the Mazda CX5 and Honda CRV in case we want another CUV. haven't thought of any other options along that way.
Need to get a few trips to the dealer going soon. The wife just loves getting dragged along on those! Actually, this team, she seems interested since (even though she really won't admit it) she never really cared for the Elantra. More of an Acura or Lexus type of gal! I did see a Sonata today in a weird orange color, that she did not like, and I mentioned it was a big car, and she responded that it wasn't that big (not like an old caddy), and was really comfortable!
You seeing any lease deals for Caddy ATS? My mom has always wanted a Caddy and next year when RAV goes back I’d like to get her into one if I could do under $400 with just first payment down.
I just built one to how I’d think she would want it and the lease deal on the web is beyond terrible.
...Also going to look at the Mazda CX5 and Honda CRV in case we want another CUV....
Why would you want two SUVs? My wife loves her new CR-V, but I'm very glad that as a break from driving that I get to drive something quite different. Just my 2 cents.
If you can find one of the last of the 2018 TLXs you might be able to get a really good lease. The 2019 TLXs probably won't really be "on sale" imho until maybe Nov? Since you want the new tech it's probably not a good idea to get a 2017 TLX. The TLX had a major update for model year 2018, adding AcuraWatch + CarPlay/AndroidAuto, etc.
The S60 seems like a very nice car too.
What about a BMW 320i? Worth a test drive, perhaps?
And what about an Audi A3 or A4? Those Audis are very sharp.
Infiniti Q50?
Lexus ES350? My local dealer has a nice lease special on the last of the 2018s.
At the risk of being on thin ice, I think you should aim higher than a "Snota." They offer great bang for the buck, but in terms of driving dynamics, interior refinement, etc. I feel like a Sonata is not quite one of the finer things in automotive life.
we like the 2017 TLX too. The tech package car still has most of acurawatch. I don't really want a lot of the autonomous stuff. Just blind spot and cross path. Most of the rest of the interior changes were tweaks. So I would be fine with either one. Especially if the 17s were considerably cheaper reflecting being pre update.
might go look at the BMW. Not thinking it will be happening now. maybe next time. The infiniti, will look at that. The A3 is too small (and if I really wanted one, could buy my sons). Plus the wife does not like Volkswagons at all, and is not fond of Audis (plus they are really pricey).
You seeing any lease deals for Caddy ATS? My mom has always wanted a Caddy and next year when RAV goes back I’d like to get her into one if I could do under $400 with just first payment down.
I just built one to how I’d think she would want it and the lease deal on the web is beyond terrible.
well today's lease deals certainly won't matter come next year.
'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
nice cars, but even with a bunch of lease cash, a $50k car is not going to be leasing cheap regardless. But, worth honckering!
True. Yeah, I didn't realize that an ES350 with just a few options was close to 50k. Yikes.
Well, if you don't need the newest tech, the way to really save on a TLX is to maybe consider a certified 2015 TLX Tech with low miles. They seem to cost about the same as a certified 2015 Accord EXL with low miles—c.$22k or so.
Although it doesn't seem to have the Tech pkg, here's a 2015 Acura TLX that's "Caravana Certified" and has 36k miles for $18,800. Fathom Blue with Parchment interior. An Acura TLX for less than the price of a new Civic LX.
nice cars, but even with a bunch of lease cash, a $50k car is not going to be leasing cheap regardless. But, worth honckering!
True. Yeah, I didn't realize that an ES350 with just a few options was close to 50k. Yikes.
Well, if you don't need the newest tech, the way to really save on a TLX is to maybe consider a certified 2015 TLX Tech with low miles. They seem to cost about the same as a certified 2015 Accord EXL with low miles—c.$22k or so.
Although it doesn't seem to have the Tech pkg, here's a 2015 Acura TLX that's "Caravana Certified" and has 36k miles for $18,800. Fathom Blue with Parchment interior. An Acura TLX for less than the price of a new Civic LX.
I've been looking at 2015 TLX's recently, and I'd go with CPO, even if it's extra money. Shouldn't be too hard to find one around $20-21K, with decent miles.
I'm not going that far back. I found 2 2017s that I like. A little more money, but 2 years newer, quite a few less miles. Interesting choice. Same colors, only difference is 4 vs. V6 (for $2,300 difference asking). The 4 is acceptable. The V6 is intoxicating.
also, I am willing to buy used. CPO is not really essential IMO on an Acura, but nice to have. and an easier sell to my wife. She is not a big fan of used ("someone else got it all dirty") so a real low mile 2017 or 2018 would help sell her. Plus I just don't want to go back further than that. And on these, I have a firm rule. No tech package, no sale!
....I've been looking at 2015 TLX's recently, and I'd go with CPO, even if it's extra money. Shouldn't be too hard to find one around $20-21K, with decent miles.
You might be right, but that one has a clean 1-owner carfax, plus Carvana does a mechanical inspection and reconditioning that's perhaps similar to what an Acura dealer would do?? I don't know. But from your knowledge what does CPO offer that makes it worth $1-2k more for what seems like a similar level of TLX?
@stickguy I think you should be on the lookout for a CPO S60. Not because I have a Volvo, honest, but because you’ve constantly posted S60 listings for as long as I can remember. Wait for a blue one with tan guts, which we all know is the official Stickguy combo, and scratch that itch.
the Acura CPO, other than the 182 point inspection (which I get anyway with an oil change!) it is really just an extended warranty. Adds 1 year/12K BTB, and takes the powertrain out to 7/100K. So 1 extra year on that too.
odds of it paying off, probably not great. But, better than not having it! I would pay a few hundred. Maybe 1K. But if I found identical cars as CPO and normal (from another dealer) I would not pay $3K more for CPO. Especially not on a 2017 with 3 years factory BTB left!
Comments
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
just have to figure out a price that works. We will end up subsidizing some of it (graduation present) I am sure.
so, if the details come together Monday I may be downloading that Honcker app after all!
and my wife, so excited to be shopping again. Well, maybe not. Helps that she is really not a huge fan of Ellie (daughter's name for the Elantra).
Back in the market baby. Look out!
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
We're at $165/hour, so the prices aren't insane for here. Brakes and rotors around $1800. Even our Indy shops work off very high overhead. Naturally if you owned a Toyota, you have a lot more options.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
Oh yeah, Santa Monica told me that I was lucky because they were "running a service special" that week. I guess that meant that they included Vaseline at no added charge.
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
talked through all the options, and pretty much settled on getting something that will become the travel and every day car, relegating the RDX back to spare car duty. Having been using that all the time now makes us realize how outdated the tech is.
so, she is flexible as to what we get. Just as long as it is more comfy, has good tech stuff, power seats (both sides) and slightly more "mature". My requirements is at least as fast as the current ride, and super comfy seats. Not making the mistake of compromising on that again.
Sedan or CUV/wagon/hatch are all fine. We did swing through the Volvo dealer and sat in some stuff. The S60, I would get that just for the drivers seat. Did chat with the sales guy, and he said they are done being made so whatever is on the ground is what they will have (but, deals are there for the making). Really a nice car. Great size too. the wife liked it, though we also sat in an S90 and she saw the next style interior. So hard taking the old style! Also sat in an XC60. That, she liked.
did not take her long either when chatting to cut to the "let's just get a new RDX" chase. Though she was also intrigued by the idea of a TLX.
so, we got some looking to do. Not really a rush. We are surviving with one car so far. Plus, she found out this week that for the rest of the year she is full time work from home too, so even less need for 2 cars.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
In terms of your new car, might it make sense financially to trade in the old RDX on a brand-new 2019 RDX? Or is sharing a car a bridge too far? It is for me at this point, and so I understand. If you need two cars, then here's a crazy thought—what if you "cashed out" the old RDX at the Acura dealer and then—sin of sins—started two new leases. Her car could be the new RDX and yours potentially could be more of a sporty sedan, whether a Volvo, BMW, TLX, or something else? If your leases are close to zero due at delivery, then selling the RDX might also allow you to pay off the Elantra Sport? Apologies for having too many ideas for how you can boost your stellar membership in CCBA.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
But your 2013 RDX is still probably worth a lot. As you say, however, the 2013's tech is really outdated, and so depreciation might accelerate as buyers in the used car market increasingly realize that a 5 year old car is from a completely different era.
Today I attended, for the first time, a BMW Driving Event, sponsored by the local dealer. It was a two hour session, split equally between a "long course" and a "short course".
The facility is actually owned by the county, and is primarily used by law enforcement for high speed training and car control.
The "long course" is about a mile in length, and simulates a standard 2 lane road with a double yellow line. A few low speed corners and a decently long straight stretch, interrupted by a slalom with 6-7 gates. Decent elevation changes, too (the video I linked to earlier is the facility). This is in no way a race track - there are no run off areas.
The "short course" is set up for autocross; lots of low speed corners and one short straight stretch.
The local SCCA was out to monitor and time the autocross portion.
We split into two groups, and I went onto the long course first. We had a pace car - 2001 Z3M, driven by one of the SCCA hot shoes. First lap was orientation, 2nd and 3rd laps were at speed. Due to some scheduling delays, our group was only able to do 3 sets of laps. Fortunately, I was able to drive one of them - in an X3 M40i.
Way more fun than I expected - I was able to break 80 MPH on the straight stretch, before the slalom. I was complimented by one of my passengers that I was using an appropriate racing line (there were no professional drivers accompanying us). Unfortunately, the doofus who had the M4 three cars in front of me didn't seem to understand the concept of what the right pedal was for, so I wasn't able to really exercise the car.
I rode shotgun in both the X3 as well as in an X5 50i. The X5, my friends, is a seriously fast SUV. Except the driver nailed one of the slalom cones on the last lap. And, the M550i in front of us was going way faster.
On to the short course. There were 4 vehicles available - the M4 (after the first laps on the long course, the event organizers swapped it and another car out for two others), a 440i 6-speed, an X2 and a 650i GC. I drove the X2 twice, and the 440i and 650i GC once each.
I saw two times for my laps - 46.1 in the X2 and 45.9 in the 650. I kept the 440i in 2nd gear the whole lap, but didn't see a time.
I was pretty impressed with the X2; I pushed it to the limit the second time around and was able to induce a short 4-wheel drift on one of the tighter turns. Startled me into lifting off the throttle for a moment.
The 650 was surprisingly agile, as well, for something so big.
I have a new found appreciation for the "Ultimate Driving Machine" tag line, and I also learned that I'm a lousy passenger when cars are being driven in anger.
Wish I had the opportunity to do another half dozen laps, in the same car. I was starting to learn the course and figure there was time to shave.
All in all, a pretty fun day, even though a bunch of "bros" tried jumping the queue for extra seat time in the M4 and 440i.
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2015 Subaru Outback 3.6R / 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX Prestige
https://southjersey.craigslist.org/cto/d/1985-audi-gt-coupe/6662141314.html
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
Stick-shift, too!
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2015 Subaru Outback 3.6R / 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX Prestige
Just did a lease on an ILX for a friend, details a bit foggy now but it was a little over 30K and leased out for $300 with first payment. Dealer claimed they were all in.
I think it was the trim just above “Acura Watch” ..
2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic
Sounds like a really cool event. I wouldn’t mind trying something like that, but wouldn’t feel comfortable driving a stick. I *can* do it, but never really comfortable with it especially in a new BMW.
2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic
I downloaded the Honcker app but was a little hesitant to put all my info in. That Jeep looks like a decent deal.
2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic
as always, now that I decided to buy, I have no clue what to get! Should just finally just get the Volvo, the problem being that they are not making the old model so while the deals might be screaming, it gets hard to find something equipped the way I would want.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6
'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
So I downloaded Honcker. Took some poking around to figure out some of the tricks. Did not realize it was a deal where they drop it off in your driveway. Between that and Carvana, even the housebound can buy and sell cars now!
some of the cars, it was not that easy to tell what options they had on them. without seeing the actual unit, or a window sticker, a bit of reverse engineering going on from MSRP. The other issue is that if you don't want a black interior, your choices go way down!
ran a few. Nothing that jumped out yet. Mazda CX5 with the roof package was $272/month. Could live with that I guess. might need to go down and take a test drive.
looking at the quotes though, pretty sure can just treat them like Carmax or Truecar. Take them to the local dealer that has what I want, ask them to beat it, and buy the car!
will go back later and poke around with the steal of the day tab. Just to see what happens.
now I gotta go vacuum the pool before the wife yells at me.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
I bought one Honda from Superior (again, that store is a bit of a haul for me, but the Superior dealerships know me and makes things easy for me). I bought two more Accords from Performance Honda....one for me, and later on, one for my former spouse.
Nice people....always treated me well.....straight shooters, at least with me. My father knew the owner (Mike Dever) pretty well and urged me to buy from him if I were looking at a Toyota or Honda. Mike’s made his millions and moved to FL. So, I haven’t seen him in a while.
I drop him an email every once in a while just to see how he’s doing. He always ends his responses with “do you need a car”? Always the sales person. Oddly, I find his Lexus dealerships difficult to work with.
@stickguy - after your Turbo Hyundai, you aren’t going to like a CX-5.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
Same with my iPhone. Have the 6s Plus but want the 8 Plus badly even though I don't need it. Lost a couple of eBay bids and last night's auction only had one bidder as I honestly forgot what time it was and missed the end. Today, find it back up again so maybe a sign. Offer Up has some interesting deals but never quite follow through. A guy I know who has a phone store says I should only buy on the even years as the bigger updates seem to happen then. But my current 6s Plus is just fine especially with the new battery, so I keep holding back from jumping on an 8 Plus. Guess my logical side of my brain has taken over!!
The Sandman
2023 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD (wife) / 2025 VW GTI (me) / 2019 Chevrolet Cruze Premier RS (daughter #1) / 2020 Hyundai Accent SE (daughter #2) / 2023 Subaru Impreza Base (son)
The Beechmont Automile dealerships are pretty easy to deal with (where I got the Tacoma), and they have a Honda dealership. I've also bought/leased from Performance and Kings Automall (when they were Century on Montgomery Road). Both were easy transactions.
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2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
Also going to look at the Mazda CX5 and Honda CRV in case we want another CUV. haven't thought of any other options along that way.
Need to get a few trips to the dealer going soon. The wife just loves getting dragged along on those! Actually, this team, she seems interested since (even though she really won't admit it) she never really cared for the Elantra. More of an Acura or Lexus type of gal! I did see a Sonata today in a weird orange color, that she did not like, and I mentioned it was a big car, and she responded that it wasn't that big (not like an old caddy), and was really comfortable!
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
You seeing any lease deals for Caddy ATS? My mom has always wanted a Caddy and next year when RAV goes back I’d like to get her into one if I could do under $400 with just first payment down.
I just built one to how I’d think she would want it and the lease deal on the web is beyond terrible.
2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic
If you can find one of the last of the 2018 TLXs you might be able to get a really good lease. The 2019 TLXs probably won't really be "on sale" imho until maybe Nov? Since you want the new tech it's probably not a good idea to get a 2017 TLX. The TLX had a major update for model year 2018, adding AcuraWatch + CarPlay/AndroidAuto, etc.
The S60 seems like a very nice car too.
What about a BMW 320i? Worth a test drive, perhaps?
And what about an Audi A3 or A4? Those Audis are very sharp.
Infiniti Q50?
Lexus ES350? My local dealer has a nice lease special on the last of the 2018s.
At the risk of being on thin ice, I think you should aim higher than a "Snota." They offer great bang for the buck, but in terms of driving dynamics, interior refinement, etc. I feel like a Sonata is not quite one of the finer things in automotive life.
'24 Chevy Blazer EV 2LT
might go look at the BMW. Not thinking it will be happening now. maybe next time. The infiniti, will look at that. The A3 is too small (and if I really wanted one, could buy my sons). Plus the wife does not like Volkswagons at all, and is not fond of Audis (plus they are really pricey).
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
"kyfdx Posts: 87,812
August 2
unknown2018 said:
Can you please provide me the MF and RV for ES 350 36/12K, 42/12K, 48/12k for zip code 77802?
36/12: .00001 MF and 46% residual
42-48/12: .00006 MF and 42%/37% residual
$6000 lease cash"
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
'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
2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic
Well, if you don't need the newest tech, the way to really save on a TLX is to maybe consider a certified 2015 TLX Tech with low miles. They seem to cost about the same as a certified 2015 Accord EXL with low miles—c.$22k or so.
Although it doesn't seem to have the Tech pkg, here's a 2015 Acura TLX that's "Caravana Certified" and has 36k miles for $18,800. Fathom Blue with Parchment interior. An Acura TLX for less than the price of a new Civic LX.
https://www.carvana.com/search/2000155942/2015-acura-2.4-sedan-4d-
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2015 Subaru Outback 3.6R / 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX Prestige
also, I am willing to buy used. CPO is not really essential IMO on an Acura, but nice to have. and an easier sell to my wife. She is not a big fan of used ("someone else got it all dirty") so a real low mile 2017 or 2018 would help sell her. Plus I just don't want to go back further than that. And on these, I have a firm rule. No tech package, no sale!
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
https://www.cars.com/vehicledetail/detail/732860874/overview/
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
https://www.carvana.com/search/2000155942/2015-acura-2.4-sedan-4d-
25 NX 450h+ / 24 Sienna Plat AWD / 23 Civic Type-R / 21 Boxster GTS 4.0 / 03 Montero Ltd
odds of it paying off, probably not great. But, better than not having it! I would pay a few hundred. Maybe 1K. But if I found identical cars as CPO and normal (from another dealer) I would not pay $3K more for CPO. Especially not on a 2017 with 3 years factory BTB left!
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.