The armrest doesn't seem to interfere with the handbrake as far as I can tell. It may be a bit awkward to engage it with the armrest down, but no big deal.
The Mazda2 I drove didn't have one and that would bother me (though it can be added as an accessory - sounds like the Fiesta is the same).
I feel like we've seen this one, but in a different state... didn't someone else post this somewhere and we said "no way!" My memory is getting fuzzy.
I do know there was a similar one that JRL almost bought. The post-auction inspection came up with a transmission case that was JB welded! I do believe that had far fewer miles, though.
Anyway, the biggest problem area is the AWD... specifically the rear output shaft has a habit of developing a leaking seal. $1800 repair if it gets bad enough.
I'm not sure, but I don't believe the auto trans starting in '06 (6-speed unit) has been problematic.
'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
For the 2012 model year, Ford added a captain's chair style arm rest, which is pretty slick because it is small, folds easily out of the way, and doesn't get in the way of the brake at all. Of course, the front passenger gets no benefit from it, but how often is there a front passenger to worry about?
The aftermarket accessory is similar to the one in your Beetle, and it folds up to get out of the way. I might try it; I should be able to return it if I find it too cumbersome. I use the hand brake quite a bit during my six months of winter driving...
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
Alloy wheels, active noise cancellation, backup camera, Bluetooth, Pandora radio, and auto climate control are standard on the base (LX) model. Supposedly, EX models and above get a keyless ignition system. Feature-wise, it looks very competitive.
On another note, there are some advantages experienced by those of you who get rid of a car before the first oil change is due. I ordered a new serpentine belt for the Altima since the factory one is beginning to show excessive cracks, and a replacement ambient temperature sensor because the exterior temperature display sometimes takes a long time to update. Also, the last time I had one of the front wheels off, it looked like it will need front brake pads soon. Then, yesterday morning, it wouldn't start. My jumper cables are short, so I had to move the BMW over to the point that their fenders were almost kissing in order to connect them. My mechanic tested and replaced the battery--about four years and 66,000 miles on the OEM battery. I'm probably going to become fanatical about connecting the Battery Tender to both cars on a regular basis. (As an aside, the date code on the 540i's battery indicates that it also has its factory battery, so it's now 10+ years old!)
I ordered a new serpentine belt for the Altima since the factory one is beginning to show excessive cracks, and a replacement ambient temperature sensor because the exterior temperature display sometimes takes a long time to update. Also, the last time I had one of the front wheels off, it looked like it will need front brake pads soon. Then, yesterday morning, it wouldn't start. My jumper cables are short, so I had to move the BMW over to the point that their fenders were almost kissing in order to connect them. My mechanic tested and replaced the battery--about four years and 66,000 miles on the OEM battery. I'm probably going to become fanatical about connecting the Battery Tender to both cars on a regular basis. (As an aside, the date code on the 540i's battery indicates that it also has its factory battery, so it's now 10+ years old!)
Jeez, lousy Asian technology .... :P
My 2006 Saturn ION is still on the original battery and original brake pads after 6+ years and 76,000 miles.
And, it's been living outside for the past year as well, so the battery really gets a workout in the winter.
I spent a lot of time yesterday looking over the news and pictures of the new Accord - I like it. I think it's the best looking Accord they've put out since the Gen 5 last made in 1997.
I'd consider a 6-speed manual sedan as my commuting car - something roomy, comfortable, reliable and relatively sporty for what it is.
And that "sport" model has nice wheels, a spoiler and 4 extra horses! :P
well, a rental. But guaranteed it will not be something I own!
have to go to Norfolk area on business in a few weeks (from Philly). pain in the butt to fly (short flight, takes forever since company won't pay the extra $$ for the only direct flight.
so, I decided to drive, since I need a car there anyway, and it gives me more flexibility as to when to go. Was going to take mine (turn a profit at $.55/mile!), but decided the Volvo has enough miles getting piled on, and the wifee is not turning over the RDX.
so, rental roulette. Malibu? something worse? we shall see! Just hope like heck it has XM. Better dredge up an ipod just in case...
5-6, something like that. I just did it in April on the way to NC. I think it is about 270 miles, just not all open highway down through the delmarva.
I did drive through the lot at the AAA office (where the Hertz desk is, about 1 mile from my house) and there was a nice looking Malibu with mass tags that must have been a Hertz car. Not the brand new design though. Still nice enough.
on a trip this length, if I can't get a direct flight, it will actually be less time door to door. And not much longer even with a non-stop! And as far as I know, the Hertz lady won't do a body cavity search on my (though maybe if she is cute...
Hertz. I think intermediate is the highest level I am allowed to reserve from. I believe it was the malibu/G6 class. Though the one below that had the Mazda 6 listed.
This is a small local office (not a big airport lot) so my choices will pretty much be whatever they have sitting there!
I think Hertz does have a lot of GMs...and Toyotas and Chryslers. So you could get something like a 4cyl 200 as well. Renting a car can kind of be like a kid waiting for Christmas...hope for the best!
Renting a car can kind of be like a kid waiting for Christmas...hope for the best!
I used to be that way when I traveled for business. Now, not so much.
Wife and I are thinking about a Christmas trip to Vegas. Air/hotel/car package is quite reasonable from Denver. Car would be a compact from Budget (Focus is what is referenced).
I'm not that particular about what I get anymore.
stick, I did what you did once ... when I lived in CA (early 90's), I rented a car to drive from SoCal to Stockton. Much cheaper than airfare. I think I ended up with the Chrysler version of the Spirit sedan. Decent power and a nice ride.
I've had or been in a few bad rentals (trashed Kia, 40K+ mile Galant, glitchy Malibu) that I am usually picky. If I can find a deal on a premium or above class, I usually do that - less risk. Sometimes those can be had for literally a few bucks more a day than a normal car.
I only ever had one half-way decent rental. Can you spot it?
Cavalier 3-speed auto (this was around '99, I believe... it was late enough that I remember being SHOCKED they still had a 3-speed!) 'yota Echo PT Cruiser Maxima Forester X Grand Am
Well, alright, I guess its not a totally fair question, as some would consider the Forester decent. But this was after we had traded a first-gen Forester on a Pilot, and then later had the new Forester rental and found it was just as slow and chintzy as the original. A good enough economy car, though, I suppose.
The Max was the one I was referring to. A good performer, but the weird ergonomics bugged me.
'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
I liked the 4DSC model and now I like the new one, but there was a long period where I wasn't a fan for one reason or another. First it was the torsion beam axle in the rear, later the odd styling.
The last business trip I took was to Bellingham, WA in 2002. Flew into Seattle and ended up with a Cavalier. I think it had the 3 speed auto as well; not fun for the drive up I-5. I was also a bit uncomfortable behind the wheel.
I once got a Taurus SHO in Minneapolis. The drive to Menomonie, WI was quite pleasant, IIRC.
A Maxima in Cincinnati; an early 90's T-Bird with the V8 in Dallas. Mustang 'vert in SoCal; a Cavalier 'vert in Jacksonville (except the weather was atrocious and the top never came down). Lots and lots and lots of anonymous American iron - when you travel a couple weeks a month for 10+ years, the rentals all start to run together.
In ATL last year, I could have picked a nicely equipped Taurus (leather, roof) that had been smoked in and someone tried to hide with a heavy chemical spray. I passed. I went around for awhile and finally found a nice Regal.
Smoking in a rental car gets you a hefty fine. All the agencies have some penalty -- car has to be professionally de-smoked. If a car smells even a bit like tobacco-- get another one or you may get charged.
yeah, the Max was a free upgrade. It was while my first volvo was in the shop. Insurance would pay for a compact, but they didn't have any. They gave me the Max and said it was just temporary until a compact came in. Wound up having it the full 10 days. Was very happy to get my volvo back, though.
The Forester we got for no particular reason. I don't remember why or how, but I had a free week-long rental. I believe it was some sort of reward benefit for a AAA credit card or some such nonsense. It was about to expire, so I figured might as well use it and have a free car for a week. A compact SUV was the top allowed choice.
'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
getting a few nibbles on the van (poor timing, putting it out on labor day, then having about 4 straight days of monsoons).
One lady is asking for a carfax or similar (she mentioned doing this for her last buyer, and using something called "carhistoryfacts" or some such because it was cheaper).
question then: is it normal to run one when you are selling (remember, I am cheap, so I think the buyer should!). and 2, does carfax really cost $44? and has anyone used this other place, or is there something similar that I can run cheaply?
Of course, if someone has a subscription active and wants to run one...
Yup - $39.99 for a single report, or you can pay $49.99 and run five reports (within a certain amount of time).
I went ahead and ran one for the Beetle we just bought - the dealer provided a different type of report (Autocheck, I think?), but it didn't seem as thorough as Carfax. Nothing came up on the report, but I suppose the $40 was worth it for that peace of mind prior to making the purchase.
One thing to consider - running an ad on autotrader or cars.com runs something like $50, and that includes the carfax. So if you are considering running the report, may as well run an ad on one of those sites and get more exposure.
Enterprise has a contract with the body shop I have dealt with - so they give you whatever is available for a set price or deal with insurance. My last was that miled up Galant after I got a parking lot bump (which came to something like $50 less than my deductible) - getting back into my car, even though it was years older, felt like stepping into a new Bentley.
I've somehow accumulated 1000 Hertz points, which can get me 2 free rental days. Maybe I could score a nice Maxima or Lacrosse sometime.
I think getting a Carfax is a good idea if you are a seller. I expect that from a used car dealer for sure; maybe if your van was a beater with a cheap price it wouldn't sway any buyers, but stuff like furnishing a Carfax and sharing the receipts goes a long way toward convincing buyers you aren't playing hide the ball.
The dealer provided an AutoCheck report on mine as well. I specifically asked him for "a Carfax," but that's like asking for a "Kleenex" or "Ziploc." :P
I thought the information on the report was thorough for my needs. It indicated DMV activity, accident records, etc.
If I were selling a mid-life car like this, I'd probably consider having a car history report available. It seems more cost-effective (in terms of peace-of-mine and time) to do it as the seller than getting the question from every buyer (or most).
Then again, that's just another reason why private sales generally can't fetch the prices of dealer sales.
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
Car was towed to the dealer once.... they used Enterprise... made the mistake of telling them, "bring me anything"... after all, I just had to drive it home 25 miles then back to the dealer the next day...
Got a crew cab, 4WD full-size Ford pickup... About 8 mpg, and on a rainy day, it felt like the rear-end was coming around, every time I hit the brakes..
A few weeks ago, I got the new Impreza hatch as a rental. It had the CVT so it was a bit sluggish, but I was getting 32-33 combined mpg without really trying. Not bad.
thanks. it is steaming my wife's clams something fierce to do it, but i am going to run the carhistoryfacts report. On.y $19.99. Then I can include it in the ad.
Not expecting to find much, because when I put the vin on carfax, it told me there was 1 history record! Probably that I titled it 8 years ago.
considering i have an interested buyer that wants to come out this weekend and see it, but is obsessed with seeing a carfax first, it makes sense.
got lucky.l The carhistoryfacts site wouldn't work for me, so I found another one. Only cost a $1. So now I have a PDF of a history report, with a whopping 1 record (original title). About what I expected, since when I plugged the VIN into carfax, it said thee was only 1 history record found!
after my nice ad and pictures, for a 1 owner low mile van, with a clean as a whistle (generic) carfax, if this women doesn't come look at it she is nuts!
Comments
I was considering a armrest for my Fiesta, but heard that they tend to get in the way of the brake.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
other than the miles, love it. at least the price reflects them. and perfect color combo with the gray over nordkap.
a stick VR. what's not to love?
I think Q should buy it, then give it to me when I save up enough money...
http://torchlightmotors.com/2006-Volvo-V70/Used-Wagon/Parlin-NJ/0/2220585/Detail- s.aspx
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
The armrest doesn't seem to interfere with the handbrake as far as I can tell. It may be a bit awkward to engage it with the armrest down, but no big deal.
The Mazda2 I drove didn't have one and that would bother me (though it can be added as an accessory - sounds like the Fiesta is the same).
2024 Audi Q8 e-tron - 2017 911 C4S - 2025 BRZ - 2023 A6 Allroad - 2024 Genesis GV60 - 2019 Cayman
How reliable are those? Loosh' 850R blew its engine recently, but the previous owner is helping him do an engine swap.
I seem to recall the clutch being a weak spot, and the biggie is the AWD system. but at least this one won't have any AT issues!
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 do know there was a similar one that JRL almost bought. The post-auction inspection came up with a transmission case that was JB welded! I do believe that had far fewer miles, though.
Anyway, the biggest problem area is the AWD... specifically the rear output shaft has a habit of developing a leaking seal. $1800 repair if it gets bad enough.
I'm not sure, but I don't believe the auto trans starting in '06 (6-speed unit) has been problematic.
'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
'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
The aftermarket accessory is similar to the one in your Beetle, and it folds up to get out of the way. I might try it; I should be able to return it if I find it too cumbersome. I use the hand brake quite a bit during my six months of winter driving...
Yeah.. I posted one from Ohio... 20K less miles, $1K more on price...
Someone thought it was a bad idea (until they found one closer to home...)
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http://www.insideline.com/honda/accord/2013/2013-honda-accord-first-look.html
Alloy wheels, active noise cancellation, backup camera, Bluetooth, Pandora radio, and auto climate control are standard on the base (LX) model. Supposedly, EX models and above get a keyless ignition system. Feature-wise, it looks very competitive.
On another note, there are some advantages experienced by those of you who get rid of a car before the first oil change is due. I ordered a new serpentine belt for the Altima since the factory one is beginning to show excessive cracks, and a replacement ambient temperature sensor because the exterior temperature display sometimes takes a long time to update. Also, the last time I had one of the front wheels off, it looked like it will need front brake pads soon. Then, yesterday morning, it wouldn't start. My jumper cables are short, so I had to move the BMW over to the point that their fenders were almost kissing in order to connect them. My mechanic tested and replaced the battery--about four years and 66,000 miles on the OEM battery. I'm probably going to become fanatical about connecting the Battery Tender to both cars on a regular basis. (As an aside, the date code on the 540i's battery indicates that it also has its factory battery, so it's now 10+ years old!)
Jeez, lousy Asian technology .... :P
My 2006 Saturn ION is still on the original battery and original brake pads after 6+ years and 76,000 miles.
And, it's been living outside for the past year as well, so the battery really gets a workout in the winter.
I'd consider a 6-speed manual sedan as my commuting car - something roomy, comfortable, reliable and relatively sporty for what it is.
And that "sport" model has nice wheels, a spoiler and 4 extra horses! :P
2024 Audi Q8 e-tron - 2017 911 C4S - 2025 BRZ - 2023 A6 Allroad - 2024 Genesis GV60 - 2019 Cayman
Backup cam on the LX? Nice...
No V6/manual any more, right?
have to go to Norfolk area on business in a few weeks (from Philly). pain in the butt to fly (short flight, takes forever since company won't pay the extra $$ for the only direct flight.
so, I decided to drive, since I need a car there anyway, and it gives me more flexibility as to when to go. Was going to take mine (turn a profit at $.55/mile!), but decided the Volvo has enough miles getting piled on, and the wifee is not turning over the RDX.
so, rental roulette. Malibu? something worse? we shall see! Just hope like heck it has XM. Better dredge up an ipod just in case...
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
How long is that drive? 6 hours or so?
I did drive through the lot at the AAA office (where the Hertz desk is, about 1 mile from my house) and there was a nice looking Malibu with mass tags that must have been a Hertz car. Not the brand new design though. Still nice enough.
on a trip this length, if I can't get a direct flight, it will actually be less time door to door. And not much longer even with a non-stop! And as far as I know, the Hertz lady won't do a body cavity search on my (though maybe if she is cute...
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
Coupe only. Not avail on the sedan.
25 NX 450h+ / 24 Sienna Plat AWD / 23 Civic Type-R / 21 Boxster GTS 4.0
This is a small local office (not a big airport lot) so my choices will pretty much be whatever they have sitting there!
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
I used to be that way when I traveled for business. Now, not so much.
Wife and I are thinking about a Christmas trip to Vegas. Air/hotel/car package is quite reasonable from Denver. Car would be a compact from Budget (Focus is what is referenced).
I'm not that particular about what I get anymore.
stick, I did what you did once ... when I lived in CA (early 90's), I rented a car to drive from SoCal to Stockton. Much cheaper than airfare. I think I ended up with the Chrysler version of the Spirit sedan. Decent power and a nice ride.
I like the lots where you can walk up to any care you want an choose (in a certain class). Then I make sure it doesn't stink before I pick.
The attendants give me funny looks when they see me trying more than one car.
Cavalier 3-speed auto (this was around '99, I believe... it was late enough that I remember being SHOCKED they still had a 3-speed!)
'yota Echo
PT Cruiser
Maxima
Forester X
Grand Am
Well, alright, I guess its not a totally fair question, as some would consider the Forester decent. But this was after we had traded a first-gen Forester on a Pilot, and then later had the new Forester rental and found it was just as slow and chintzy as the original. A good enough economy car, though, I suppose.
The Max was the one I was referring to. A good performer, but the weird ergonomics bugged me.
'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
Looks like they finally sorted it out.
The last business trip I took was to Bellingham, WA in 2002. Flew into Seattle and ended up with a Cavalier. I think it had the 3 speed auto as well; not fun for the drive up I-5. I was also a bit uncomfortable behind the wheel.
I once got a Taurus SHO in Minneapolis. The drive to Menomonie, WI was quite pleasant, IIRC.
A Maxima in Cincinnati; an early 90's T-Bird with the V8 in Dallas. Mustang 'vert in SoCal; a Cavalier 'vert in Jacksonville (except the weather was atrocious and the top never came down). Lots and lots and lots of anonymous American iron - when you travel a couple weeks a month for 10+ years, the rentals all start to run together.
You just know a temp got fired for ordering the wrong car. LOL
Forester is an oddball - don't see them as rentals often, but in Seattle there are rental Impreza and Legacy sedans.
Speaking of SHO, I know National has some loaded Chrysler 300C in their fleet, too - lots of power for a rental.
My best rental was a free upgrade to a fairly loaded 7-series diesel, in Munich. 9 day rental, I was happy.
The Forester we got for no particular reason. I don't remember why or how, but I had a free week-long rental. I believe it was some sort of reward benefit for a AAA credit card or some such nonsense. It was about to expire, so I figured might as well use it and have a free car for a week. A compact SUV was the top allowed choice.
'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
One lady is asking for a carfax or similar (she mentioned doing this for her last buyer, and using something called "carhistoryfacts" or some such because it was cheaper).
question then: is it normal to run one when you are selling (remember, I am cheap, so I think the buyer should!). and 2, does carfax really cost $44? and has anyone used this other place, or is there something similar that I can run cheaply?
Of course, if someone has a subscription active and wants to run one...
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
I went ahead and ran one for the Beetle we just bought - the dealer provided a different type of report (Autocheck, I think?), but it didn't seem as thorough as Carfax. Nothing came up on the report, but I suppose the $40 was worth it for that peace of mind prior to making the purchase.
One thing to consider - running an ad on autotrader or cars.com runs something like $50, and that includes the carfax. So if you are considering running the report, may as well run an ad on one of those sites and get more exposure.
2024 Audi Q8 e-tron - 2017 911 C4S - 2025 BRZ - 2023 A6 Allroad - 2024 Genesis GV60 - 2019 Cayman
Yeah, almost seems like a blatant rip-off. But I like it. Much better than the taillights of their last two generations.
2024 Audi Q8 e-tron - 2017 911 C4S - 2025 BRZ - 2023 A6 Allroad - 2024 Genesis GV60 - 2019 Cayman
I like dealers that run the carfax and have a link for all their cars. makes it much easier.
I may just run the cheaper version. Though I did get another guy interested at the same time.
What a pain in the butt, all to save thousands fo dollars...
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
I've somehow accumulated 1000 Hertz points, which can get me 2 free rental days. Maybe I could score a nice Maxima or Lacrosse sometime.
AutoCheck is $30.
I thought the information on the report was thorough for my needs. It indicated DMV activity, accident records, etc.
If I were selling a mid-life car like this, I'd probably consider having a car history report available. It seems more cost-effective (in terms of peace-of-mine and time) to do it as the seller than getting the question from every buyer (or most).
Then again, that's just another reason why private sales generally can't fetch the prices of dealer sales.
Got a crew cab, 4WD full-size Ford pickup... About 8 mpg, and on a rainy day, it felt like the rear-end was coming around, every time I hit the brakes..
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25 NX 450h+ / 24 Sienna Plat AWD / 23 Civic Type-R / 21 Boxster GTS 4.0
Not expecting to find much, because when I put the vin on carfax, it told me there was 1 history record! Probably that I titled it 8 years ago.
considering i have an interested buyer that wants to come out this weekend and see it, but is obsessed with seeing a carfax first, it makes sense.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
after my nice ad and pictures, for a 1 owner low mile van, with a clean as a whistle (generic) carfax, if this women doesn't come look at it she is nuts!
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.