Drove a new Corolla Cross at work today. Liked it, a lot, though it was an "LE" model. If I do go with one, gonna have to be an "XLE" with the JBL audio, two-tone interior and possibly a sun/moon roof. Scooted along nicely but it's not a turbo engine so it was loud and it lugged a slight bit. Would that keep me from purchasing one? Not sure. I'd also think hard about getting the hybrid model which is new for 2023. Think it would be worth the extra cha-ching but will have to drive one to see. Also, the price. If it's going to be around $32K or so, there are other alternatives that come in a bit smaller so I know it'll fit in Casa Sandman's garage. I'm talking about a Hyundai Kona N hatchback. Found a 2023 model in transit, a white over black interior with the special "N" seats which I do like. Comes in about 166", so a couple inches shorter than what I've got now. Better warranty, closer dealership...so what's not to like. Price wise, about the same as the Toyota which is fine by me. They also have a "Limited" model which is very similar but has a better sound system, an 8-speaker Harman Kardon unit while the "N" has a 6-speaker Infinity system. Think the HK unit will sound superior but will have to test them out to see which sounds better. Lastly, we have the Mini Cooper Countryman which is the perfect length. Like the way they drive and it does come with the Harman Kardon audio which I'd have to pay extra for. Since these are pretty expensive, trying to get a "demo" or "loaner" would be the best way to save a chunk of change. After today, this seems to be my short list. We have a bunch of new Kona's at work so will have to drive some to see if it's something I could be happy with for at least 8 or so years. Think I'm taking any EV off the list as I'm super concerned about what happens if they break down and at disposal time, what happens? Would I need to get a home charger to? The infrastructure down here is getting better but it's nowhere near where it should be. Luckily, I no longer drive over 10K miles per year anymore. It's been averaging maybe 3K or less these past few years so a charge every week would really be o k. I just don't think an EV would work this time around. And tonight, driving home after work, still have that sh-t eating grin on my face when I get behind the wheel. I still really love my Golf I have to say. I say I'm ready to let it go but when push comes to shove, not sure I'm actually ready. Maybe I'm just deluding myself here but keeping it another year or two is probably how things will turn out unless something major happens. At least I have found three alternatives that I know will work, which is a good thing. Maybe this is just G-d's why of telling me it's o k to look & talk about it but the timing is not right. And just like my work life, think he'll let me know when that time is right, I'll basically fall into it. Do appreciate y'all indulging me here but maybe it's time to just stop talking about it which I think is the appropriate thing to do. I'll surprise everyone one day and pop in here with my new vehicle. Until that time, I'll just read everyone's posts and lurk in the shadows for awhile. I'll be going to the eye doctor in a couple of weeks to get the approval for the surgeon to tweak the eye where I had the cataract procedures in 2013 & 2015. He did mention that he wants to tweak it one more time & that time has come I fear. My vision isn't as sharp in that eye as it was so 2023 is going to be the time we just do it, hopefully by early March. I'll know soon enough what the game plan will be. I just want it done already!
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)
My chronic car buyer friend who impulse bought the CT6 drove the Buick wagon - liked it but didn't love it enough to buy it. Says it is big (it's a wagon, no kidding) and overpriced - the latter I concur with as it isn't a low mileage car but they want top dollar for it. He has another one on the line, from left field - a late run Lincoln MKS Ecoboost, hard loaded, <30K miles for a not insane price. This may be the one. His dithering can be a little funny, but I have to admire his penchant for unusual cars</p>
Forgive my ignorance here, but is that Lincoln MKS Ecoboost a 4 or 6 cylinder? I would be quite leery of a 4 cylinder Ecoboost, the V6 not so much.
In this case it's a TT V6, putting out something like 350 hp. The MKS in the right trim is a Taurus SHO in grandma's house coat.
My friend test drove it today and just had to call me - he liked it, but again didn't absolutely love it, but is thinking about it (as it is 5K cheaper than the Buick, has a third of the miles, and he has a thing for Ford products it seems ). His complaint was again size - he parks in DT Seattle and has garage paranoia. I told him he needs to look for a Spark (half-joking) and nagged him about why he bought the Caddy in the first place (apparently the other half was into it) He is looking to spend no more than 25K or so given the negative equity he will be facing, and likes something offbeat.
His complaint was again size - he parks in DT Seattle and has garage paranoia.
I think that price range is near a Bolt or Bolt EUV, after the tax credit. Just remember to ignore his calls the next time they get recalled and he can't park in the garage.
The Corolla Cross XLE is nice, but that is a lot of heft to move without a turbo at that price point. Plus I know you've commented before how your Golf drives better with the transmission in "S" mode. A Corolla Cross might feel like the car had it's avocados cut off.
I know a big plus for you is the longer warranty of the Kona N, but the warranty is only as good as the company and dealership who backs and honors it.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
His complaint was again size - he parks in DT Seattle and has garage paranoia.
I think that price range is near a Bolt or Bolt EUV, after the tax credit. Just remember to ignore his calls the next time they get recalled and he can't park in the garage.
My cousin in CA just picked up a Bolt EUV. In addition to the federal tax rebate, he signed up to be an UBER driver which got him an additional $2,500 and if he makes 8 trips he gets an additional $1,000.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
The Corolla Cross XLE is nice, but that is a lot of heft to move without a turbo at that price point. Plus I know you've commented before how your Golf drives better with the transmission in "S" mode. A Corolla Cross might feel like the car had it's avocados cut off.
I know a big plus for you is the longer warranty of the Kona N, but the warranty is only as good as the company and dealership who backs and honors it.
If you click on the GTI and the info, you can pull up the original window sticker. I recall it being $37k ish and now they are asking $38.2k CPO
His complaint was again size - he parks in DT Seattle and has garage paranoia.
I think that price range is near a Bolt or Bolt EUV, after the tax credit. Just remember to ignore his calls the next time they get recalled and he can't park in the garage.
My cousin in CA just picked up a Bolt EUV. In addition to the federal tax rebate, he signed up to be an UBER driver which got him an additional $2,500 and if he makes 8 trips he gets an additional $1,000.
Is that strictly a CA deal? Does Uber give the money or the state?
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
what's that GTI sticker for new? I know there aren't many out there sans markups, but what is the price delta between that and an "R?"
Given your past dealings with VW and manual transmissions, are you willing to take a gamble on a used GTI with 3,400 miles on it?
Yeah, it’s sad when you see a CPO car priced close to new and the gut reaction is, “wow - that’s a good deal!” Seems those days are changing though.
A Golf R is around $46k MSRP. Seems to me a GTI SE at around $36-37k makes some sense, but if you want all the goodies and get to $40k for an Autobahn, the value equation versus the R starts to get challenging. Though a GTI seems to be fairly easy to find, and I have yet to see a Golf R just sitting around available.
And that experience with the wife’s Alltrack continues to sour me on VW as a whole.
His complaint was again size - he parks in DT Seattle and has garage paranoia.
I think that price range is near a Bolt or Bolt EUV, after the tax credit. Just remember to ignore his calls the next time they get recalled and he can't park in the garage.
My cousin in CA just picked up a Bolt EUV. In addition to the federal tax rebate, he signed up to be an UBER driver which got him an additional $2,500 and if he makes 8 trips he gets an additional $1,000.
Is that strictly a CA deal? Does Uber give the money or the state?
I think it must have been Uber. When I bought my Elantra, I signed up to be a driver before I picked the car up and the dealer put through an extra $1,000 rebate.
what's that GTI sticker for new? I know there aren't many out there sans markups, but what is the price delta between that and an "R?"
Given your past dealings with VW and manual transmissions, are you willing to take a gamble on a used GTI with 3,400 miles on it?
Yeah, it’s sad when you see a CPO car priced close to new and the gut reaction is, “wow - that’s a good deal!” Seems those days are changing though.
A Golf R is around $46k MSRP. Seems to me a GTI SE at around $36-37k makes some sense, but if you want all the goodies and get to $40k for an Autobahn, the value equation versus the R starts to get challenging. Though a GTI seems to be fairly easy to find, and I have yet to see a Golf R just sitting around available.
And that experience with the wife’s Alltrack continues to sour me on VW as a whole.
I was kind of interested in a 2021 CPO Mach 1; under 5,000 miles- only $6,000 more than I paid for the C43. That wasn't going to happen.
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
Seems the wife had to stop at Ft. Lauderdale Audi to get the oil topped off again tonight on her way home. The oil light came on and they put some more in. They can't find any oil leak and this happens like every 6 months or so, usually when we're on our way to Orlando. Weird. Besides that, the vehicle is running nicely at 74K and she's not thinking about trading it any time soon. If it behaves, no reason why we'll keep it for at least another three years. But, let it strand her once, and it'll be gone within a month as she won't trust it anymore.
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)
Looked at the tire treads on the Golf tonight and only the front left one is showing any wear on the outside, not much, but the other three look almost new compared to it. Two have been replaced in 2021 using the road hazard policy I took out when new. Just hoping the left front one wears a bit better now that it's up front because if it has to be replaced, guessing I'd have to put the same tire up there since it's on the same axle and the tread has to be the same...right? Or am I wrong here? Could I put any tire up front? Probably time to get another alignment policy since my last one ran out the end of October. I had a three year alignment policy since it was new and did use it like every 6 months or so. Will look into the price of a new one & go from there. The price of those is probably more than the $129 I paid last time but will check it out at Tires Plus tomorrow.
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)
BMW Q4 report includes this item: "Plant Spartanburg in South Carolina built just over 60% of the BMW vehicles sold in the U.S." - Ray I was surprised at how high that % is - but probably I should not be... [[[ X3 in my garage ]]]
Seems the wife had to stop at Ft. Lauderdale Audi to get the oil topped off again tonight on her way home. The oil light came on and they put some more in. They can't find any oil leak and this happens like every 6 months or so, usually when we're on our way to Orlando. Weird. Besides that, the vehicle is running nicely at 74K and she's not thinking about trading it any time soon. If it behaves, no reason why we'll keep it for at least another three years. But, let it strand her once, and it'll be gone within a month as she won't trust it anymore.
Your wife should have the oil level checked periodically and add before the oil light comes on. Sadly VW/Audi 1.8 and 2.0 engines are known to consume oil between oil changes. Adding a quart of oil here and there is no big deal and certainly cheaper than an engine replacement or buying a new car.
2021 VW Arteon SEL 4-motion, 2018 VW Passat SE w/tech, 2016 Audi Q5 Premium Plus w/tech
BMW Q4 report includes this item: "Plant Spartanburg in South Carolina built just over 60% of the BMW vehicles sold in the U.S." - Ray I was surprised at how high that % is - but probably I should not be... [[[ X3 in my garage ]]]
When I worked at BMW I'd say 50% of our new car sale were SUVs.
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
Seems the wife had to stop at Ft. Lauderdale Audi to get the oil topped off again tonight on her way home. The oil light came on and they put some more in. They can't find any oil leak and this happens like every 6 months or so, usually when we're on our way to Orlando. Weird. Besides that, the vehicle is running nicely at 74K and she's not thinking about trading it any time soon. If it behaves, no reason why we'll keep it for at least another three years. But, let it strand her once, and it'll be gone within a month as she won't trust it anymore.
Your wife should have the oil level checked periodically and add before the oil light comes on. Sadly VW/Audi 1.8 and 2.0 engines are known to consume oil between oil changes. Adding a quart of oil here and there is no big deal and certainly cheaper than an engine replacement or buying a new car.
Exactly. My Mini uses a quart of oil every 1,000-1,500 miles, which is within spec for a new Mini. I just check the oil every 500 miles or so. It's the nature of the beast. As an aside, Car and Driver had a long term M340i that used a quart of oil every 10,000 miles. In the comments one dimwit referred to it as a "2 cycle level of oil consumption," but my favorite comment was from a guy who posted: "My Tacoma with 244k miles and my Civic with 160k miles haven’t burned four quarts of oil in total. I did have a ‘64 Dodge that used that much." I replied: "I want to deny that I'm extremely envious, but I simply can't."
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
I once owned a 1959 Chevy that burned a quart of oil every 75 miles. In those days, you could buy "recycled oil" for really cheap. And back then, no one was much concerned about air pollution.
Sandman, as others have noted, you should get in the habit of checking the oil once a week for your wife. I have owned cars where that was a weekly routine, checking under the hood. As cars got better, that changed to a monthly routine. Pop the hood, look around, check the oil, look at the brake fluid reservoir and the engine coolant reservoir (without opening), check the battery terminals for corrosion, etc.
I remember working in a full service gas station the summer of 1965 -- "Check the hood for you, sir?" Cleaning the windshield was automatic, you didn't ask. Most did want the oil checked, and some would ask for a tire pressure check as well.
These were the days before overflow recovery systems for engine coolant, and it was not at all unusual to see cars overheating. We had a special tool, long handled with a lever, for opening radiator caps without getting scalded.
Seems the wife had to stop at Ft. Lauderdale Audi to get the oil topped off again tonight on her way home. The oil light came on and they put some more in. They can't find any oil leak and this happens like every 6 months or so, usually when we're on our way to Orlando. Weird. Besides that, the vehicle is running nicely at 74K and she's not thinking about trading it any time soon. If it behaves, no reason why we'll keep it for at least another three years. But, let it strand her once, and it'll be gone within a month as she won't trust it anymore.
Your wife should have the oil level checked periodically and add before the oil light comes on. Sadly VW/Audi 1.8 and 2.0 engines are known to consume oil between oil changes. Adding a quart of oil here and there is no big deal and certainly cheaper than an engine replacement or buying a new car.
It might also be helpful to the engine if you add some oil flush to it before the next change (I mean, right before the next change!). The engines can often be sensitive to varnishes that can cause piston rings to stick ever so slightly. That, in turn, allows more blow by than would normally occur, and it can be somewhat sporadic. The flush is good at lifting those varnishes, but it does so by eating through the oil films to clean the metals, so you want to make sure you follow the instructions closely (in other words, don't add the flush, then forget about it for a few weeks...).
2018 Subaru Crosstrek, 2014 Audi Q7 TDI, 2013 Subaru Forester, 2013 Ford F250 Lariat D, 1976 Ford F250, 1969 Chevrolet C20, 1969 Ford Econoline 100
Seems the wife had to stop at Ft. Lauderdale Audi to get the oil topped off again tonight on her way home. The oil light came on and they put some more in. They can't find any oil leak and this happens like every 6 months or so, usually when we're on our way to Orlando. Weird. Besides that, the vehicle is running nicely at 74K and she's not thinking about trading it any time soon. If it behaves, no reason why we'll keep it for at least another three years. But, let it strand her once, and it'll be gone within a month as she won't trust it anymore.
Your wife should have the oil level checked periodically and add before the oil light comes on. Sadly VW/Audi 1.8 and 2.0 engines are known to consume oil between oil changes. Adding a quart of oil here and there is no big deal and certainly cheaper than an engine replacement or buying a new car.
It might also be helpful to the engine if you add some oil flush to it before the next change (I mean, right before the next change!). The engines can often be sensitive to varnishes that can cause piston rings to stick ever so slightly. That, in turn, allows more blow by than would normally occur, and it can be somewhat sporadic. The flush is good at lifting those varnishes, but it does so by eating through the oil films to clean the metals, so you want to make sure you follow the instructions closely (in other words, don't add the flush, then forget about it for a few weeks...).
I have seen this work to reduce oil consumption. It is something to be very careful about, but it can work.
Seems the wife had to stop at Ft. Lauderdale Audi to get the oil topped off again tonight on her way home. The oil light came on and they put some more in. They can't find any oil leak and this happens like every 6 months or so, usually when we're on our way to Orlando. Weird. Besides that, the vehicle is running nicely at 74K and she's not thinking about trading it any time soon. If it behaves, no reason why we'll keep it for at least another three years. But, let it strand her once, and it'll be gone within a month as she won't trust it anymore.
Your wife should have the oil level checked periodically and add before the oil light comes on. Sadly VW/Audi 1.8 and 2.0 engines are known to consume oil between oil changes. Adding a quart of oil here and there is no big deal and certainly cheaper than an engine replacement or buying a new car.
It might also be helpful to the engine if you add some oil flush to it before the next change (I mean, right before the next change!). The engines can often be sensitive to varnishes that can cause piston rings to stick ever so slightly. That, in turn, allows more blow by than would normally occur, and it can be somewhat sporadic. The flush is good at lifting those varnishes, but it does so by eating through the oil films to clean the metals, so you want to make sure you follow the instructions closely (in other words, don't add the flush, then forget about it for a few weeks...).
Some interesting reading here on the subject of flushing your engine (motor oil, not coolant).
Basically, most engine flush compounds are primarily kerosene or number 2 diesel, with a few other chemicals thrown in.
Back in the day, 1960s and 1970s, old time mechanics such as my father would usually use varsol or kerosene, add from one pint up to a quart, run the engine at idle until it warmed up, then change the oil and filter.
Funny, I have a similar 1.8 turbo in my Golf, obviously tweaked differently, and it's never had an issue like hers. Oil light never came on, never needed to add any in between oil changes. Hers has no turbo lag like mine does which leads me to believe what I mentioned earlier that her engine is tweaked a bit differently. Once I put my car into "S", they drive almost the same for some reason. Luckily we live so close to the Audi dealer, under 2 miles, which has turned out to be a good thing.
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)
Feel like I'm running on empty today as I couldn't go back to sleep after 3:30 this morning. Have no clue as to why as I was quite tired when I first went into bed at around 9:45 or so. Got up around midnight to take an immediate release pain pill as the pain was pretty severe. Got up again around 3:30 and that was that. Got some stuff done as I left the house around 10 and did my errands for the week. Came back and did a load of wash and made lunch and now, fading fast as I sit here typing. Will definitely be in bed early tonight as it's a work day tomorrow. Just hate when the chronic pain won't let me live my life as I'd like!
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)
After my year end review last week, which went well, mentioned about me changing teams. Talked with him again yesterday about it and he came back with an idea about a change. I responded but got no answer, figured he was busy so got in touch again earlier today. I put out and idea and he told me he'd get back to me so glad he didn't say no right away. The tentative plan is for me to give up my Wednesday and pick up Monday. I did mention up front that I need to see my pain doc every 3 months and he only sees patients now on Monday afternoon & Tuesday morning as he's cutting back his schedule. I am hoping that won't be an issue. I already work with the lead driver on Wednesdays and he likes my work & wants me to join the team full time. So that might help me get what I want here. I really do like Mondays off but, having Wednesdays & Thursdays off really isn't that bad honestly. Think I'm ready to give up my Monday right now. While at Hertz, I worked a Monday, Wednesday, Friday schedule which was helpful with my spinal issues but now, would rather have a couple of days back to back going forward. My plan to go down to a 2-day a week schedule has been put on a temporary hold as we're a bit short staffed which I get. Always try to be a team player at work so holding off on Plan B is fine by me if I can get my preferred Monday, Tuesday, Friday going forward. I know that Tuesdays are a day when we're really short staffed so keeping it is no big deal. Fridays & Mondays are our busiest days so it'll be a win/win for both sides if he does approve this change for me. At first yesterday I wasn't sure when he brought up working Mondays but having last night to think about it, decided I'm pretty o k with it. So, now the ball is back in his court as he knows I really want this change and to work with my friend who luckily has also talked to him about taking me on his crew. Hoping to find out something by the beginning of next week but not going to get my hopes up quite yet.
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)
I once owned a 1959 Chevy that burned a quart of oil every 75 miles. In those days, you could buy "recycled oil" for really cheap. And back then, no one was much concerned about air pollution.
Back when I was a kid, a friend of my brother’s had a succession of old worn-out jalopies. He used to joke that when he pulled into a gas station, he’d tell the attendant to check the gas and fill the oil.
A lot of independent mechanics like to use Shell diesel oil in early E36 M3s. Never was brave enough to try it, though.
A few years ago the British magazine BMW Car had an article where the writer advised running Shell Rotella for a few thousand miles and then letting the sump drain overnight. The theory was that the oil had a strong detergent package that gradually cleaned the engine internals with out being as aggressive as an engine flush.
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
Seems the wife had to stop at Ft. Lauderdale Audi to get the oil topped off again tonight on her way home. The oil light came on and they put some more in. They can't find any oil leak and this happens like every 6 months or so, usually when we're on our way to Orlando. Weird. Besides that, the vehicle is running nicely at 74K and she's not thinking about trading it any time soon. If it behaves, no reason why we'll keep it for at least another three years. But, let it strand her once, and it'll be gone within a month as she won't trust it anymore.
Your wife should have the oil level checked periodically and add before the oil light comes on. Sadly VW/Audi 1.8 and 2.0 engines are known to consume oil between oil changes. Adding a quart of oil here and there is no big deal and certainly cheaper than an engine replacement or buying a new car.
Interesting, I just asked about that issue on the other board:
“ the only issue with our Audi is that it drinks some oil in between changes.”
Funny you mention that. Today while stopped for a coffee break in the Adirondacks we saw an frail elderly man and (I presume) his middle aged daughter trying to lift up the hood of their VW. We decided to help. She said her oil light had come on and when we checked there was nothing on the dipstick. We put some oil in for her and told her she should get it looked at.
Are VW products noted for drinking oil?
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
After my year end review last week, which went well, mentioned about me changing teams. Talked with him again yesterday about it and he came back with an idea about a change. I responded but got no answer, figured he was busy so got in touch again earlier today. I put out and idea and he told me he'd get back to me so glad he didn't say no right away. The tentative plan is for me to give up my Wednesday and pick up Monday. I did mention up front that I need to see my pain doc every 3 months and he only sees patients now on Monday afternoon & Tuesday morning as he's cutting back his schedule. I am hoping that won't be an issue. I already work with the lead driver on Wednesdays and he likes my work & wants me to join the team full time. So that might help me get what I want here. I really do like Mondays off but, having Wednesdays & Thursdays off really isn't that bad honestly. Think I'm ready to give up my Monday right now. While at Hertz, I worked a Monday, Wednesday, Friday schedule which was helpful with my spinal issues but now, would rather have a couple of days back to back going forward. My plan to go down to a 2-day a week schedule has been put on a temporary hold as we're a bit short staffed which I get. Always try to be a team player at work so holding off on Plan B is fine by me if I can get my preferred Monday, Tuesday, Friday going forward. I know that Tuesdays are a day when we're really short staffed so keeping it is no big deal. Fridays & Mondays are our busiest days so it'll be a win/win for both sides if he does approve this change for me. At first yesterday I wasn't sure when he brought up working Mondays but having last night to think about it, decided I'm pretty o k with it. So, now the ball is back in his court as he knows I really want this change and to work with my friend who luckily has also talked to him about taking me on his crew. Hoping to find out something by the beginning of next week but not going to get my hopes up quite yet.
I work just two days a week and love it. 20-25 hours total.
I think the company is having the same problems as everybody else, nobody wants to work low level jobs. In order to retain the people they have up here they gave us an extra 30 cents on top of the mandated $1 increase from the state. Nice gesture but I doubt the majority of the old geezers are working here for the money.
Just don’t tell stickguy, I’m trying to get him to retire early and become a car jockey so I can collect the $100 bird dog.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Comments
What? No plaid seats???
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
Hard to tell on cell phone.
Hard pass for me😂
I'm talking about a Hyundai Kona N hatchback. Found a 2023 model in transit, a white over black interior with the special "N" seats which I do like. Comes in about 166", so a couple inches shorter than what I've got now. Better warranty, closer dealership...so what's not to like. Price wise, about the same as the Toyota which is fine by me. They also have a "Limited" model which is very similar but has a better sound system, an 8-speaker Harman Kardon unit while the "N" has a 6-speaker Infinity system. Think the HK unit will sound superior but will have to test them out to see which sounds better.
Lastly, we have the Mini Cooper Countryman which is the perfect length. Like the way they drive and it does come with the Harman Kardon audio which I'd have to pay extra for. Since these are pretty expensive, trying to get a "demo" or "loaner" would be the best way to save a chunk of change.
After today, this seems to be my short list. We have a bunch of new Kona's at work so will have to drive some to see if it's something I could be happy with for at least 8 or so years. Think I'm taking any EV off the list as I'm super concerned about what happens if they break down and at disposal time, what happens? Would I need to get a home charger to? The infrastructure down here is getting better but it's nowhere near where it should be. Luckily, I no longer drive over 10K miles per year anymore. It's been averaging maybe 3K or less these past few years so a charge every week would really be o k. I just don't think an EV would work this time around.
And tonight, driving home after work, still have that sh-t eating grin on my face when I get behind the wheel. I still really love my Golf I have to say. I say I'm ready to let it go but when push comes to shove, not sure I'm actually ready. Maybe I'm just deluding myself here but keeping it another year or two is probably how things will turn out unless something major happens. At least I have found three alternatives that I know will work, which is a good thing. Maybe this is just G-d's why of telling me it's o k to look & talk about it but the timing is not right. And just like my work life, think he'll let me know when that time is right, I'll basically fall into it. Do appreciate y'all indulging me here but maybe it's time to just stop talking about it which I think is the appropriate thing to do. I'll surprise everyone one day and pop in here with my new vehicle. Until that time, I'll just read everyone's posts and lurk in the shadows for awhile.
I'll be going to the eye doctor in a couple of weeks to get the approval for the surgeon to tweak the eye where I had the cataract procedures in 2013 & 2015. He did mention that he wants to tweak it one more time & that time has come I fear. My vision isn't as sharp in that eye as it was so 2023 is going to be the time we just do it, hopefully by early March. I'll know soon enough what the game plan will be. I just want it done already!
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)
My friend test drove it today and just had to call me - he liked it, but again didn't absolutely love it, but is thinking about it (as it is 5K cheaper than the Buick, has a third of the miles, and he has a thing for Ford products it seems ). His complaint was again size - he parks in DT Seattle and has garage paranoia. I told him he needs to look for a Spark (half-joking) and nagged him about why he bought the Caddy in the first place (apparently the other half was into it) He is looking to spend no more than 25K or so given the negative equity he will be facing, and likes something offbeat.
$32k for a non-turbo Corolla? Hard pass!
'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
Well, we did close on our current house in October 2021 and then went and bought my wife’s M340i that afternoon. 😉
2024 Audi Q8 e-tron - 2017 911 C4S - 2025 BRZ - 2023 A6 Allroad - 2024 Genesis GV60 - 2019 Cayman
Lol. I thought I remembered you doing something like that!
2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic
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what's that GTI sticker for new? I know there aren't many out there sans markups, but what is the price delta between that and an "R?"
Given your past dealings with VW and manual transmissions, are you willing to take a gamble on a used GTI with 3,400 miles on it?
@Sandman6472
The Corolla Cross XLE is nice, but that is a lot of heft to move without a turbo at that price point. Plus I know you've commented before how your Golf drives better with the transmission in "S" mode. A Corolla Cross might feel like the car had it's avocados cut off.
I know a big plus for you is the longer warranty of the Kona N, but the warranty is only as good as the company and dealership who backs and honors it.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
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2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
If you click on the GTI and the info, you can pull up the original window sticker. I recall it being $37k ish and now they are asking $38.2k CPO
You can. But you shouldn’t. Is what I meant.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
Not the basic button. That seems to be a fancier service that integrates to your whole house. Sounds like an Alexa kind of.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
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2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
2024 Audi Q8 e-tron - 2017 911 C4S - 2025 BRZ - 2023 A6 Allroad - 2024 Genesis GV60 - 2019 Cayman
A Golf R is around $46k MSRP. Seems to me a GTI SE at around $36-37k makes some sense, but if you want all the goodies and get to $40k for an Autobahn, the value equation versus the R starts to get challenging. Though a GTI seems to be fairly easy to find, and I have yet to see a Golf R just sitting around available.
And that experience with the wife’s Alltrack continues to sour me on VW as a whole.
2024 Audi Q8 e-tron - 2017 911 C4S - 2025 BRZ - 2023 A6 Allroad - 2024 Genesis GV60 - 2019 Cayman
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
Almost forgot about these.
2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Limited Velvet Red over Wicker Beige
2024 Audi Q5 Premium Plus Daytona Gray over Beige
2017 BMW X1 Jet Black over Mocha
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Limited Velvet Red over Wicker Beige
2024 Audi Q5 Premium Plus Daytona Gray over Beige
2017 BMW X1 Jet Black over Mocha
@roadburner - I think you did well with the C43, it’s much more elegant inside and out. The iron fist in a velvet glove.
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)
Probably time to get another alignment policy since my last one ran out the end of October. I had a three year alignment policy since it was new and did use it like every 6 months or so. Will look into the price of a new one & go from there. The price of those is probably more than the $129 I paid last time but will check it out at Tires Plus tomorrow.
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)
You also don't see multiple C43s on a daily basis
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
"Plant Spartanburg in South Carolina built just over 60% of the BMW vehicles sold in the U.S."
- Ray
I was surprised at how high that % is -
but probably I should not be...
[[[ X3 in my garage ]]]
BMW and Porsche are both truck companies that make a few niche cars still. Just like gm and ford.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
2021 VW Arteon SEL 4-motion, 2018 VW Passat SE w/tech, 2016 Audi Q5 Premium Plus w/tech
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
As an aside, Car and Driver had a long term M340i that used a quart of oil every 10,000 miles. In the comments one dimwit referred to it as a "2 cycle level of oil consumption," but my favorite comment was from a guy who posted:
"My Tacoma with 244k miles and my Civic with 160k miles haven’t burned four quarts of oil in total. I did have a ‘64 Dodge that used that much."
I replied:
"I want to deny that I'm extremely envious, but I simply can't."
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
Sandman, as others have noted, you should get in the habit of checking the oil once a week for your wife. I have owned cars where that was a weekly routine, checking under the hood. As cars got better, that changed to a monthly routine. Pop the hood, look around, check the oil, look at the brake fluid reservoir and the engine coolant reservoir (without opening), check the battery terminals for corrosion, etc.
I remember working in a full service gas station the summer of 1965 -- "Check the hood for you, sir?" Cleaning the windshield was automatic, you didn't ask. Most did want the oil checked, and some would ask for a tire pressure check as well.
These were the days before overflow recovery systems for engine coolant, and it was not at all unusual to see cars overheating. We had a special tool, long handled with a lever, for opening radiator caps without getting scalded.
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
Some interesting reading here on the subject of flushing your engine (motor oil, not coolant).
Basically, most engine flush compounds are primarily kerosene or number 2 diesel, with a few other chemicals thrown in.
Back in the day, 1960s and 1970s, old time mechanics such as my father would usually use varsol or kerosene, add from one pint up to a quart, run the engine at idle until it warmed up, then change the oil and filter.
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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)
Will definitely be in bed early tonight as it's a work day tomorrow. Just hate when the chronic pain won't let me live my life as I'd like!
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)
I really do like Mondays off but, having Wednesdays & Thursdays off really isn't that bad honestly. Think I'm ready to give up my Monday right now. While at Hertz, I worked a Monday, Wednesday, Friday schedule which was helpful with my spinal issues but now, would rather have a couple of days back to back going forward. My plan to go down to a 2-day a week schedule has been put on a temporary hold as we're a bit short staffed which I get. Always try to be a team player at work so holding off on Plan B is fine by me if I can get my preferred Monday, Tuesday, Friday going forward. I know that Tuesdays are a day when we're really short staffed so keeping it is no big deal. Fridays & Mondays are our busiest days so it'll be a win/win for both sides if he does approve this change for me.
At first yesterday I wasn't sure when he brought up working Mondays but having last night to think about it, decided I'm pretty o k with it. So, now the ball is back in his court as he knows I really want this change and to work with my friend who luckily has also talked to him about taking me on his crew. Hoping to find out something by the beginning of next week but not going to get my hopes up quite yet.
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)
2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
“ the only issue with our Audi is that it drinks some oil in between changes.”
Funny you mention that. Today while stopped for a coffee break in the Adirondacks we saw an frail elderly man and (I presume) his middle aged daughter trying to lift up the hood of their VW. We decided to help. She said her oil light had come on and when we checked there was nothing on the dipstick. We put some oil in for her and told her she should get it looked at.
Are VW products noted for drinking oil?
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
I think the company is having the same problems as everybody else, nobody wants to work low level jobs. In order to retain the people they have up here they gave us an extra 30 cents on top of the mandated $1 increase from the state. Nice gesture but I doubt the majority of the old geezers are working here for the money.
Just don’t tell stickguy, I’m trying to get him to retire early and become a car jockey so I can collect the $100 bird dog.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible