I am not sure what the policy is for the CTA (Chicago Transit Authority) and their trains (subway and 'L's) but their busses have a bike rack on the front that bikers can put their bikes on (I think they only hold 2).
Now the Metra (larger trains going between the city and the burbs) do allow bikes on their trains. IIRC there are several cars on each train that has a large area near the entrance devoid of seats that are used for people in wheelchairs. These areas can be used to put a bike but must be vacated if a handicapped person needs the space.
I am also interested in purchasing a Wagon how do you like yours? Did you drive a Passat during your quest for a new car?? that is what i am leaning towards
So far I love it. I've had it in my possession all of 24 hours now. ;-) I've already put the wagon part of it to use, bringing home some cabinet and tile samples from the company who will be doing our home remodeling.
I did not look at the Passat or the Audi A4 Avant; they might have been worthwhile competitors. However, there is no VW/Audi dealer particularly close to me, and I have heard such horror stories over the years about VW/Audi customer service and to some extent reliability (although supposedly they have improved recently) that I just wasn't motivated to seek one out.
I love the Volvo. It has a lot of good features, feels very solid and very luxurious, and I got an excellent price. If you want a Volvo wagon, let your fingers do your research, because most dealers only have one or two in stock, and what they've got is it, for the most part. Maybe some might be getting one more here and there, but day for last orders is April 15.
It was difficult finding a car with the four essential items on it (Premium, Climate and Convenience, plus the BLIS side-view mirrors). Premium (leather seats) is easy to find, and is usually paired with either Climate OR Convenience, but rarely with both, in order to keep the MSRP in the high 30's. Once you get three packages, you're looking at an MSRP of over 40k. But they are discounted right now to invoice minus $2500, and if you bargain a bit, maybe even better.
But act fast if you want one, because once they're gone, they're gone. Volvo is going to bring in something new called the V60, I think, which will be less SUV-like than the XC 60 because it won't have AWD, but it won't be a wagon like the V70.
If you would be happy with a smaller wagon, then take a look at the V50 "Sportwagon." That's a very nice car, on a smaller scale than the 70. I'm not sure if that is going to go into the 2011 model year or not.
Yes -- true. Thinking back, I had a bike computer several years ago that would tell me MPH, and 20 MPH was very hard to get to even on flat land. Even downhill, 25 MPH was about the limit... Did about 15 miles?? (maybe closer to 10) today on a garbage discount store special. That was a painful, painful experience that I don't care to repeat. It was a spur of the moment decision and I almost declined knowing what kind of bike I would have to ride and then I even though about making the 30 mile round trip drive to get my bike just so I wouldn't have to ride what was readily available... Even in it's needing a tuneup state, the bike I have is miles beyond what I was forced to ride...
I may be a strong rival to jmonroe when it comes to keeping my car clean. However, today I had a first. I started hosing it off while standing on the driver's side and continued around the back ending on the front passenger side. Guess what I noticed as I sprayed the windows? The front passenger window was wide open.
So I ended up cleaning the inside before I washed the outside. I used a whole lot of microfiber towels in the process. Water was everywhere. :sick:
So I ended up cleaning the inside before I washed the outside.
Don't tell me you're one of those guys that does the inside last. I've always done the inside first so I don't track wet feet into the car. And, since I sit on the inside that has to be my first priority. And I always do the door jambs too. Boy, they got to be a real mess over the winter months but now they sparkle.
I'll tell everyone a tale about door jambs and the inside of the trunk lid when I get a chance.
Stop doing things backwards. :confuse:
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
Don't tell me you're one of those guys that does the inside last.
I have an advantage in that I'm taller than the average guy so my feet never go inside the car when I'm cleaning. I do the washing first because the sun (when it shines here in western Washington) hits the driveway as the day progresses. I don't like to wash the car in the direct sunlight.
Of course, living in this part of the country allows me to wash my car almost every week, even in the winter, so the door jambs and door frames never get too dirty. I have some cool microfiber cloths just for that purpose along with inside the trunk (lid and sides) and under the hood.
Stop doing things backwards. Grow some longer arms... or slip your shoes off.
Oh yes, she had stepped in you know what and managed to spread it on my carpet,
That's a sad story...but kind of funny unfortunately if you think about it...sorry Richard....it's just that you have the best of intentions, and then...well, you know. And your poor wife, must feel so bad these things happen.
Have you ever considered buying your wife a Hummer with plastic seat covers and wall to wall rubber floor mats.....just trying to be helpful. Oh yeh, maybe on of those plastic removeable trays you can just wash out in the back.
You know how things come in 3's? Let's see. The mud, the poop, and...? Let's hope that the third one isn't any worse than the first two. WAIT! That WAS the third one. I forgot about the light pole and the bumper. Don't worry about her taking it to the beach. I'm leaving for another beach on the same day to spend the weekend with two old college buddies. If anything happens to the convertible, it will be my fault.
Thanks for that interesting link. It even had pictures. BTW, what is the Lollapalooza Celebration in August? What is the Taste of Chicago June 25th-July 4th?
I have an advantage in that I'm taller than the average guy so my feet never go inside the car when I'm cleaning.
That's not an advantage...that's an excuse.
Grow some longer arms... or slip your shoes off.
I'm done growing so that ain't gonna happen. Just ask grandson #1 what happens when you take your shoes off. You stub your toe on a door and break it (just happened yesterday). I've been telling him and his brothers for quite a while now that shoes protect your feet so wear them. Maybe now they'll listen. That shoes thing is another poor excuse for doing things backwards. :P
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
Have you ever considered buying your wife a Hummer with plastic seat covers
It wouldn't matter. The convertible would still be there safe and sound in it's garage until another fluke time when she would need to drive it. What she really needs is Richard to chauffeur her around on those rare occasions.
You know, I think I do it both ways.... if the inside is really bad (rare) I will do it first. However, if its just a quick wipe of the console and shake the mat out I do it after the outside is all done. No wet feet because I usually do the car at the bottom of the driveway and then pull it up where its dry.
As for car washing blunders...there was that one time I forgot to shut the sunroof :surprise:
We were at the golf course one way when a sudden rain came up. I was in the club house laughing at this guy I saw running thru the parking lot to his car...he had left the sun roof open. What a dufus, I thought.
When the rain slacked up I strolled out to my car...yep, the sun roof was wide open and the inside was soaked. That car (95 Maxima) never smelled right after that.
I learned a valuable lesson though...never laugh at someone else or it will come back 3 or 4 fold !!!
I had a '92 Camry that came without sunroof, so the dealer had an after-market one put in for me. It was great, and automatically closed when I turned off the ignition. Never had to think about closing it.
Next car up was a '98 Jeep Grand Cherokee. This one came with a sunroof. So the first day I owned it happened to be a spectacular summer day, and of course I'm doing all my driving around with the roof open.
Got back to the apartment building where I was living at the time, where we had outdoor parking. It was night, and I never gave a thought to the roof. Turned off the ignition and went inside.
Overnight, a huge summer thunderstorm rolled in.
Next morning, out to the car - oops! Completely wet. This is how I learned that the standard sunroof that came on the car did NOT automatically close.
Fortunately a good drying out and airing out took care of everything; it never smelled bad.
I wonder why it is that the aftermarket roofs will close automatically, but the ones that the manufacturer puts in do not. Seems a very useful feature, from all our soggy tales here.
My sister is in the restaurant biz in N. Ca. She borrowed my dads 85 buick to go to market to get some crates of fresh chickens packed in crates with ice. The crates were like baskets so the melting ice and chicken juice melted into the trunk. She didn't think to line the trunk with plastic or mention what she carried to my dad. After a day of "What stinks ?" to the second day of "what died?' he opened the trunk --- called my sister who confessed and raised holy hell. A new trunk liner fixed it.
I was at a company picnic once and we had a lady that worked with us that had a MB SL convertable, she had parked it with the top down. Well we got a sudden rain and I yelled towards her "Your top" (she was near her car). The first thing she did was look down at her blouse. I yelled "No your other top" and she still looked down at her blouse wondering what was wrong. I finally yelled "Your Mercedes" she looked at be a little dumbfounded then turn around and realized what I was saying.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
They are both festivals in Grant Park in Chicago. Lollapalooza is a large music festival and Taste of Chicago is a food festival (where most of the cities restaurants offer small portions of their signature foods).
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
"I yelled "No your other top" and she still looked down at her blouse wondering what was wrong. I finally yelled "Your Mercedes"..."
Snake--
Your story reminded me of a similar, but deliberate, miscommunication. My cousin used to work as a flight attendant. Her main run was from Phoenix (her home base) to Orange Co., CA. Pretty much everyone on that flight was a businessman and a significant percentage were real jerks. Basically, their attitude was that the world was their oyster and you were the grain of sand necessary to make pearls.
My cousin and a co-worker developed a shorthand response for dealing with these slobs--who typically left newspapers food and other stuff strewn everywhere. The phrase is dependent on inflection and body language and was uttered while picking up the garbage near the end of the flight. You'll note that it's the exact same phrase in both examples-- with decidedly different intent:
#1 Sir, your trash (said imploringly, because you really want to assist)
#2 Sir, you're trash (said with your widest smile to those most obnoxious types while mouthing curses that bring to light shortcomings in the offender's "equipment".
I guess if it's done just right the target is left wondering, but what can he say? Not sure how widespread the practice was. My cousin hasn't been a flight attendant for 20 years or so and she happily quit so it wasn't--at least directly--a result of passenger complaints
What a wonderful use of "your" and "you're". That story would be a great teaching tool. My sister-in-law is a retired flight attendant for Pan Am. That should tell you something about her age. She loves to tell this story. She delivered a cup of coffee to this slob on a flight to London. As she leaned over to serve it, he reached around and pinched her on the butt. This caused her to spill the hot coffee on his lap. She didn't apologize. With her biggest smile, she asked if he would like sugar or artificial sweetener with his second cup. Though we have heard the story one hundred times, we still get a big laugh out of it.
On the way to lunch from church today, she asked me again if I thought that the CRV or Pilot would be a good replacement for the Explorer. I said, "Maybe we shouldn't get a new car." She asked why not. I said, "Well, look at your three experiences with the convertible." She said, "I wonder why nothing ever happens when I drive the Explorer?" I responded, "The Explorer is old. It knows to stay away from light poles, mud, and dog poop." Her response? "As long as you didn't say that the driver was old."
I wonder why it is that the aftermarket roofs will close automatically, but the ones that the manufacturer puts in do not.
That's a good question and that's the reason why my brother prefers after market installed sun roofs. Some day I imagine the car manufactures will provide this feature but it seems pretty lacking on their part that they don't have it now.
Probably something like when after market cruise control became available they had the "resume" feature but GM early on didn't have resume as factory installed, at least that is what I was told. Way back I never had a car with cruise control so I can't verify this first hand but that's what I heard many GM owners complain about. The first car that I had with cruise control was a '75 Grand Prix and that car had the resume feature as factory installed.
It's thinking like this or the lack of it that makes me wonder what goes on behind the closed doors of car manufactures during the design stage. Maybe it's a patent thing but that's a pretty lame excuse not to have what can be had if a buyer were to go with after market.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
Yeah, and the bleeding has probably stopped by now!
Was out all day going out to Pennsylvania for a memorial for my wife's uncle. He had tha bad timing to die the day before one of our monster snow storms this winter and a lot of folks couldn't make the funeral (we did. He was a favorite. We couldn't not go.) but made it this time including my MIL's older sister who is probably 93 and sharp as a tack. It was actually a good time even though it meant missing the final round at the Masters which is now my annual ritual to remember my dad who loved doing that. He'd be plenty happy that Phil won.
To get more on topic we drove the Camry there - the longest trip we've taken in it. Again, not my favorite kind of vehicle to drive but quiet and comfy. Numb steering. The old description as a Japanese Buick is right on the mark.
2015 Mazda 6 Grand Touring, 2014 Mazda 3 Sport Hatchback, 1999 Mazda Miata 2004 Toyota Camry LE, 1999.
>Numb steering. The old description as a Japanese Buick
I can't decide if the reference to Buick is an insult to Buick or a compliment to Camry. Our Buick doesn't have numb steering which often confuses me because it's mentioned in the analogies.
Our Buick doesn't have numb steering which often confuses me because it's mentioned in the analogies
Everything seems great, until you try something else. I had lots of GMs and Chryslers and Fords over the years and thought they were all great cars. But when I drove an Audi, BMW, or Mercedes, I realized there is a big difference. It's like you don't know you need glasses, until you get tested...then you know the difference.
We went out in a friend's Lincoln MKZ the other night....it's about 4 or 5 years old. I was very impressed. Beautiful finish, very comfortable and quiet, nicely designed. I would consider one of these, but I just don't think it will handle like a Euro-car. I do understand why some people prefer American cars though, they are generally larger, and are a little flashier. My guess is Asian buyers like the reliability, low cost of driving, and in some cases the Hi-tech experiences. Guess that's why they make different cars for different people. Maybe numb steering seems like a good feature to some people...."This is great, so smooth and easy, I don't feel a thing, must be a great car".
I don't believe it's fair or accurate to presume any of the old characteristics of a car maker. The car world is changing in substantial ways and we're all the benefactors. Buick? I grew up with Buick and hated the brand/cars, but the most recent models have totally altered my brand perception and I now have great respect for what GM has engineered and constructed. Hyundai? Used to be throw-away cars that I would NEVER consider, but now I have one in my garage and am thrilled with the reliability, gas mileage, power, styling, and size. I've been a Honda and Toyota fanatic for 20 years, and but now there are precious few models I would choose over models Ford, GM, Hyundai, and Subaru have released in the last few years. It's a new car world and I love the changes taking place.
> reliability, That would be the toyota-lexus models with transmission lag and now runaway acceleration all after sludging?
That should read, "perceived reliability". And GM is not entirely free from reliability issues including faulty brakes, peeling paint, the Corvair problems........
Please reread: the steering is not "numb." Please stop trying to propagate the single image.
I have driven Pontiacs, Buicks, Oldsmobiles, Malibus, and it is a very accurate image. The only car that I found to be more numb was a Toyota. It isn't a safety issue or a major fault.....it is just a difference. You can't defend it until you actually compare it...by driving a European car.
>low cost of driving,
Another myth.
I think overall, most people will find it cost less to run an Asian car than a Euro or American car. From lower initial cost, to better gas mileage, to fewer repairs, with few exceptions, overall, Asian cars cost less to own...(unless your car has a runaway gas pedal).
Those are my opinions based on my experience. They are not necessarily the opinion of Edmunds or it's fine staff. I have driven the cars I have talked about, and it is based on my real life experience. If you question the reliability issue check out JD Powers or Consumers Reports.
I grew up with Buick and hated the brand/cars, but the most recent models have totally altered my brand perception
I basically agree with you tyguy. Who knew Toyota would blow their reputation and Hyundai and Ford would come out as real winners? However, I doubt if a new Buick is going to handle like a bmw. It might, but nothing I have read has said this to be the case. The new Buicks look better than ever, they have been making good solid reliable cars lately, and have good reviews, but I don't think they can shake the stodgy image they have built up over the years....but then, I didn't think Ford would make this great a comeback.
But when I drove an Audi, BMW, or Mercedes, I realized there is a big difference. It's like you don't know you need glasses, until you get tested...then you know the difference.
The regulars here know that Son #1 is a track guy now and that I went with him early last summer to Charleston West Virginia to get his ’95 Trans Am. The car is in great shape and he’s installed (to hear him tell it I had nothing to do with this :confuse: ) the Corvette C5 brake upgrade and big/big rims and tires (this I had nothing to do with).
Anyway, I talked to him and a track buddy of his yesterday while at his second sons birthday (6 now and I can’t believe where the time went). I ask how things are going at the track and he said just fine and that I should have been there last week when he did his first runs for this year. He was very satisfied with his run times. I said, “you know, I should go take a test drive of a BMW because I’ve heard they have tight steering and hold the road pretty good but I’m not so sure how they ride”. He said, “that’s interesting because someone at the track just bought a 3 Series a few months ago and brought it up there and the guy let me take it out for few laps while he was waiting to be accompanied by an instructor” (this guy is a Group 3 driver, Son #1 has a Group 1 rating so he can go alone). My Son goes on to say, “don’t waste your time, you won’t like how it rides compared to your Genny. That car is planted to the road like it’s supposed to be, and the steering is tight but not all that much tighter than your car but you definitely won’t like the ride”. He also said that he would like to run my Genny against that car because it should do pretty well given he knows how both cars ride. I don’t know if that’s his way of trying to con me into letting him run the Genny or not but like I’ve said before he ain’t gonna run that car. I really don’t care how it performs against anything. I bought that car for overall driving and comfort and I’ll trust his some what expert judgment as to how well it accomplishes both of those criteria.
Guess that's why they make different cars for different people.
It sure is and when are you going to realize that a BMW isn’t the be all and end all of cars? I know you like them but just how good can they be? If all this chatter about a BMW continues, I might be forced into allowing my Son to run my Genny against your BMW if that will satisfy you.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
, I might be forced into allowing my Son to run my Genny against your BMW if that will satisfy you
I have driven a lot of different cars, some I owned and some I have rented. I always thought a car is pretty much a car....and differences were fairly minor.
When I test drove a 99 Mercedes it was the biggest difference I had ever experienced. And though I love the feeling of a Mercedes, when I test drove a 2004 BMW I thought that was even better.
I like a firm ride, because that translates into better "feel of the road" and better cornering. I wouln't go in a race because I don't drive that fast, and your son knows what he is doing....and I don't - though I know you weren't serious. Softer ride is not a bad thing, it's just that I would rather have better handling and a firmir ride - and I know I am in the minority of drivers who like it that way......but that's why there's different cars for different folks.
I think overall, most people will find it cost less to run an Asian car than a Euro or American car. From lower initial cost
You are completely wrong. The Asian cars are not cheaper initially than American cars (leaving Hyunday/Kia aside). Until recently American cars sold at a discount compared to Toyota and Hondas. Because people "perceived" them to be inferior (quality/fit and finish, whatever), they had to compete on price.
I'm looking forward to the Buick Regal (FYI, based on Opel's Insignia). The LaCrosse looks awesome, but it's too big for us.
The Asian cars are not cheaper initially than American cars
A funny thing happened to me today. I drove down the street where we used to live 6 years ago and I saw my neighbor sitting outside. We caught up on a few things then I spotted this nice looking Lexus in his driveway. This fellow bought a new Lincoln every two years....and, he owned a business which made parts for trucks. One reason he had American cars was because his trucking company customers would throw him out if he bought a foreign car. But, he did love his Lincolns.
He went to test drive a new Lincoln from the same dealer he had been buying cars from for over 20 years....and he thought it was cr--! A friend suggested he try an Accura and though he liked it he liked the Lexus even more. My guess, is it is closer to what he expected the Lincoln would be like. Another, American only car buyer, who won't be coming back.
You are possibly correct when you say equivalent U.S. cars are cheaper to buy, because they are trying to compete against cars that are technologically superior, but if you consider the cost of ownership to include maintenance and resale value, then I think (my personal opinion and observation) Asian cars will actually cost less.
Edmunds has a good tool to figure the total cost to own any particular car. Since there is more mark up in high priced cars they usually cost more. The one biggest cost of ownership is....depreciation.
The one biggest cost of ownership is....depreciation.
That's why initial cost is just one factor when figuring out the cost of driving a particular car. A buick might cost less than a Lexus initially, but when you calculate the trade in value after 5 years of driving......which car actually cost less to own. That chart sounds very useful.
You are possibly correct when you say equivalent U.S. cars are cheaper to buy, because they are trying to compete against cars that are technologically superior, but if you consider the cost of ownership to include maintenance and resale value, then I think (my personal opinion and observation) Asian cars will actually cost less.
That is debatable. What is not debatable is that your initial statement was wrong. But brownie points on trying to recover from it.
to me, it comes down to am i willing to pay a little more, if i have to, to drive something i at least don't hate every day? for other people, it is all about the dollars and cents of ownership, or loonies and toonies.
2024 Ford F-150 STX, 2023 Ford Explorer ST, 91 Mustang GT vert
Comments
Now the Metra (larger trains going between the city and the burbs) do allow bikes on their trains. IIRC there are several cars on each train that has a large area near the entrance devoid of seats that are used for people in wheelchairs. These areas can be used to put a bike but must be vacated if a handicapped person needs the space.
Metra bikes on trains
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
So far I love it. I've had it in my possession all of 24 hours now. ;-) I've already put the wagon part of it to use, bringing home some cabinet and tile samples from the company who will be doing our home remodeling.
I did not look at the Passat or the Audi A4 Avant; they might have been worthwhile competitors. However, there is no VW/Audi dealer particularly close to me, and I have heard such horror stories over the years about VW/Audi customer service and to some extent reliability (although supposedly they have improved recently) that I just wasn't motivated to seek one out.
I love the Volvo. It has a lot of good features, feels very solid and very luxurious, and I got an excellent price. If you want a Volvo wagon, let your fingers do your research, because most dealers only have one or two in stock, and what they've got is it, for the most part. Maybe some might be getting one more here and there, but day for last orders is April 15.
It was difficult finding a car with the four essential items on it (Premium, Climate and Convenience, plus the BLIS side-view mirrors). Premium (leather seats) is easy to find, and is usually paired with either Climate OR Convenience, but rarely with both, in order to keep the MSRP in the high 30's. Once you get three packages, you're looking at an MSRP of over 40k. But they are discounted right now to invoice minus $2500, and if you bargain a bit, maybe even better.
But act fast if you want one, because once they're gone, they're gone. Volvo is going to bring in something new called the V60, I think, which will be less SUV-like than the XC 60 because it won't have AWD, but it won't be a wagon like the V70.
If you would be happy with a smaller wagon, then take a look at the V50 "Sportwagon." That's a very nice car, on a smaller scale than the 70. I'm not sure if that is going to go into the 2011 model year or not.
Now I'm off overhaul it...
So I ended up cleaning the inside before I washed the outside. I used a whole lot of microfiber towels in the process. Water was everywhere. :sick:
Don't tell me you're one of those guys that does the inside last. I've always done the inside first so I don't track wet feet into the car. And, since I sit on the inside that has to be my first priority. And I always do the door jambs too. Boy, they got to be a real mess over the winter months but now they sparkle.
I'll tell everyone a tale about door jambs and the inside of the trunk lid when I get a chance.
Stop doing things backwards. :confuse:
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
THE BEACH!!! That's near water! Is there any chance... that..., naah. No one could be that unlucky that many times.
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
I have an advantage in that I'm taller than the average guy so my feet never go inside the car when I'm cleaning. I do the washing first because the sun (when it shines here in western Washington) hits the driveway as the day progresses. I don't like to wash the car in the direct sunlight.
Of course, living in this part of the country allows me to wash my car almost every week, even in the winter, so the door jambs and door frames never get too dirty. I have some cool microfiber cloths just for that purpose along with inside the trunk (lid and sides) and under the hood.
Stop doing things backwards.
Grow some longer arms... or slip your shoes off.
I replied to your post on the other forum. Hope that helps.
That's a sad story...but kind of funny unfortunately if you think about it...sorry Richard....it's just that you have the best of intentions, and then...well, you know.
And your poor wife, must feel so bad these things happen.
Have you ever considered buying your wife a Hummer with plastic seat covers and wall to wall rubber floor mats.....just trying to be helpful. Oh yeh, maybe on of those plastic removeable trays you can just wash out in the back.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
And the good things with the Element is no matter how much mud or doggie do hit it with it won't make it look any worse.
You know how things come in 3's? Let's see. The mud, the poop, and...? Let's hope that the third one isn't any worse than the first two. WAIT! That WAS the third one. I forgot about the light pole and the bumper. Don't worry about her taking it to the beach. I'm leaving for another beach on the same day to spend the weekend with two old college buddies. If anything happens to the convertible, it will be my fault.
Richard
Richard
That's not an advantage...that's an excuse.
Grow some longer arms... or slip your shoes off.
I'm done growing so that ain't gonna happen. Just ask grandson #1 what happens when you take your shoes off. You stub your toe on a door and break it (just happened yesterday). I've been telling him and his brothers for quite a while now that shoes protect your feet so wear them. Maybe now they'll listen. That shoes thing is another poor excuse for doing things backwards. :P
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
It wouldn't matter. The convertible would still be there safe and sound in it's garage until another fluke time when she would need to drive it. What she really needs is Richard to chauffeur her around on those rare occasions.
You know, I think I do it both ways.... if the inside is really bad (rare) I will do it first. However, if its just a quick wipe of the console and shake the mat out I do it after the outside is all done. No wet feet because I usually do the car at the bottom of the driveway and then pull it up where its dry.
As for car washing blunders...there was that one time I forgot to shut the sunroof :surprise:
2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic
When the rain slacked up I strolled out to my car...yep, the sun roof was wide open and the inside was soaked. That car (95 Maxima) never smelled right after that.
I learned a valuable lesson though...never laugh at someone else or it will come back 3 or 4 fold !!!
2013 LX 570 2016 LS 460
Next car up was a '98 Jeep Grand Cherokee. This one came with a sunroof. So the first day I owned it happened to be a spectacular summer day, and of course I'm doing all my driving around with the roof open.
Got back to the apartment building where I was living at the time, where we had outdoor parking. It was night, and I never gave a thought to the roof. Turned off the ignition and went inside.
Overnight, a huge summer thunderstorm rolled in.
Next morning, out to the car - oops! Completely wet. This is how I learned that the standard sunroof that came on the car did NOT automatically close.
Fortunately a good drying out and airing out took care of everything; it never smelled bad.
I wonder why it is that the aftermarket roofs will close automatically, but the ones that the manufacturer puts in do not. Seems a very useful feature, from all our soggy tales here.
"Something" smelled bad? Yes, I'll bet it did!
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
Snake--
Your story reminded me of a similar, but deliberate, miscommunication. My cousin used to work as a flight attendant. Her main run was from Phoenix (her home base) to Orange Co., CA. Pretty much everyone on that flight was a businessman and a significant percentage were real jerks. Basically, their attitude was that the world was their oyster and you were the grain of sand necessary to make pearls.
My cousin and a co-worker developed a shorthand response for dealing with these slobs--who typically left newspapers food and other stuff strewn everywhere. The phrase is dependent on inflection and body language and was uttered while picking up the garbage near the end of the flight. You'll note that it's the exact same phrase in both examples-- with decidedly different intent:
#1 Sir, your trash (said imploringly, because you really want to assist)
#2 Sir, you're trash (said with your widest smile to those most obnoxious types while mouthing curses that bring to light shortcomings in the offender's "equipment".
I guess if it's done just right the target is left wondering, but what can he say? Not sure how widespread the practice was. My cousin hasn't been a flight attendant for 20 years or so and she happily quit so it wasn't--at least directly--a result of passenger complaints
Gogiboy
Richard
Richard
So when do you expect to get out of the hospital? :P
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
That's a good question and that's the reason why my brother prefers after market installed sun roofs. Some day I imagine the car manufactures will provide this feature but it seems pretty lacking on their part that they don't have it now.
Probably something like when after market cruise control became available they had the "resume" feature but GM early on didn't have resume as factory installed, at least that is what I was told. Way back I never had a car with cruise control so I can't verify this first hand but that's what I heard many GM owners complain about. The first car that I had with cruise control was a '75 Grand Prix and that car had the resume feature as factory installed.
It's thinking like this or the lack of it that makes me wonder what goes on behind the closed doors of car manufactures during the design stage. Maybe it's a patent thing but that's a pretty lame excuse not to have what can be had if a buyer were to go with after market.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
Richard
Was out all day going out to Pennsylvania for a memorial for my wife's uncle. He had tha bad timing to die the day before one of our monster snow storms this winter and a lot of folks couldn't make the funeral (we did. He was a favorite. We couldn't not go.) but made it this time including my MIL's older sister who is probably 93 and sharp as a tack. It was actually a good time even though it meant missing the final round at the Masters which is now my annual ritual to remember my dad who loved doing that. He'd be plenty happy that Phil won.
To get more on topic we drove the Camry there - the longest trip we've taken in it. Again, not my favorite kind of vehicle to drive but quiet and comfy. Numb steering. The old description as a Japanese Buick is right on the mark.
I can't decide if the reference to Buick is an insult to Buick or a compliment to Camry.
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
Everything seems great, until you try something else. I had lots of GMs and Chryslers and Fords over the years and thought they were all great cars. But when I drove an Audi, BMW, or Mercedes, I realized there is a big difference. It's like you don't know you need glasses, until you get tested...then you know the difference.
We went out in a friend's Lincoln MKZ the other night....it's about 4 or 5 years old. I was very impressed. Beautiful finish, very comfortable and quiet, nicely designed. I would consider one of these, but I just don't think it will handle like a Euro-car. I do understand why some people prefer American cars though, they are generally larger, and are a little flashier. My guess is Asian buyers like the reliability, low cost of driving, and in some cases the Hi-tech experiences. Guess that's why they make different cars for different people. Maybe numb steering seems like a good feature to some people...."This is great, so smooth and easy, I don't feel a thing, must be a great car".
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
That would be the toyota-lexus models with transmission lag and now runaway acceleration all after sludging?
>numb steering seems like a good feature to some people...."
Please reread: the steering is not "numb." Please stop trying to propagate the single image.
>low cost of driving,
Another myth.
>Guess that's why they make different cars for different people.
Exactly.
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
That would be the toyota-lexus models with transmission lag and now runaway acceleration all after sludging?
That should read, "perceived reliability". And GM is not entirely free from reliability issues including faulty brakes, peeling paint, the Corvair problems........
Please reread: the steering is not "numb." Please stop trying to propagate the single image.
I have driven Pontiacs, Buicks, Oldsmobiles, Malibus, and it is a very accurate image. The only car that I found to be more numb was a Toyota. It isn't a safety issue or a major fault.....it is just a difference. You can't defend it until you actually compare it...by driving a European car.
>low cost of driving,
Another myth.
I think overall, most people will find it cost less to run an Asian car than a Euro or American car. From lower initial cost, to better gas mileage, to fewer repairs, with few exceptions, overall, Asian cars cost less to own...(unless your car has a runaway gas pedal).
Those are my opinions based on my experience. They are not necessarily the opinion of Edmunds or it's fine staff. I have driven the cars I have talked about, and it is based on my real life experience. If you question the reliability issue check out JD Powers or Consumers Reports.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
The landscape has changed, especially in the last couple of years.
I basically agree with you tyguy. Who knew Toyota would blow their reputation and Hyundai and Ford would come out as real winners? However, I doubt if a new Buick is going to handle like a bmw. It might, but nothing I have read has said this to be the case. The new Buicks look better than ever, they have been making good solid reliable cars lately, and have good reviews, but I don't think they can shake the stodgy image they have built up over the years....but then, I didn't think Ford would make this great a comeback.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
The regulars here know that Son #1 is a track guy now and that I went with him early last summer to Charleston West Virginia to get his ’95 Trans Am. The car is in great shape and he’s installed (to hear him tell it I had nothing to do with this :confuse: ) the Corvette C5 brake upgrade and big/big rims and tires (this I had nothing to do with).
Anyway, I talked to him and a track buddy of his yesterday while at his second sons birthday (6 now and I can’t believe where the time went). I ask how things are going at the track and he said just fine and that I should have been there last week when he did his first runs for this year. He was very satisfied with his run times. I said, “you know, I should go take a test drive of a BMW because I’ve heard they have tight steering and hold the road pretty good but I’m not so sure how they ride”. He said, “that’s interesting because someone at the track just bought a 3 Series a few months ago and brought it up there and the guy let me take it out for few laps while he was waiting to be accompanied by an instructor” (this guy is a Group 3 driver, Son #1 has a Group 1 rating so he can go alone). My Son goes on to say, “don’t waste your time, you won’t like how it rides compared to your Genny. That car is planted to the road like it’s supposed to be, and the steering is tight but not all that much tighter than your car but you definitely won’t like the ride”. He also said that he would like to run my Genny against that car because it should do pretty well given he knows how both cars ride. I don’t know if that’s his way of trying to con me into letting him run the Genny or not but like I’ve said before he ain’t gonna run that car. I really don’t care how it performs against anything. I bought that car for overall driving and comfort and I’ll trust his some what expert judgment as to how well it accomplishes both of those criteria.
Guess that's why they make different cars for different people.
It sure is and when are you going to realize that a BMW isn’t the be all and end all of cars? I know you like them but just how good can they be? If all this chatter about a BMW continues, I might be forced into allowing my Son to run my Genny against your BMW if that will satisfy you.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
I have driven a lot of different cars, some I owned and some I have rented. I always thought a car is pretty much a car....and differences were fairly minor.
When I test drove a 99 Mercedes it was the biggest difference I had ever experienced. And though I love the feeling of a Mercedes, when I test drove a 2004 BMW I thought that was even better.
I like a firm ride, because that translates into better "feel of the road" and better cornering. I wouln't go in a race because I don't drive that fast, and your son knows what he is doing....and I don't - though I know you weren't serious. Softer ride is not a bad thing, it's just that I would rather have better handling and a firmir ride - and I know I am in the minority of drivers who like it that way......but that's why there's different cars for different folks.
Now go back and polish your Gennie.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
What makes you so sure of either of those two statements (first and last). That one in the middle I do believe. :P
Now go back and polish your Gennie.
I just did that yesterday.
Even a Genny doesn't warrant 2 wax jobs in 2 days.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
You are completely wrong. The Asian cars are not cheaper initially than American cars (leaving Hyunday/Kia aside). Until recently American cars sold at a discount compared to Toyota and Hondas. Because people "perceived" them to be inferior (quality/fit and finish, whatever), they had to compete on price.
I'm looking forward to the Buick Regal (FYI, based on Opel's Insignia). The LaCrosse looks awesome, but it's too big for us.
A funny thing happened to me today. I drove down the street where we used to live 6 years ago and I saw my neighbor sitting outside. We caught up on a few things then I spotted this nice looking Lexus in his driveway. This fellow bought a new Lincoln every two years....and, he owned a business which made parts for trucks. One reason he had American cars was because his trucking company customers would throw him out if he bought a foreign car. But, he did love his Lincolns.
He went to test drive a new Lincoln from the same dealer he had been buying cars from for over 20 years....and he thought it was cr--! A friend suggested he try an Accura and though he liked it he liked the Lexus even more. My guess, is it is closer to what he expected the Lincoln would be like. Another, American only car buyer, who won't be coming back.
You are possibly correct when you say equivalent U.S. cars are cheaper to buy, because they are trying to compete against cars that are technologically superior, but if you consider the cost of ownership to include maintenance and resale value, then I think (my personal opinion and observation) Asian cars will actually cost less.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
2013 LX 570 2016 LS 460
Now there's an idea...could save us all alot trouble and have a much better car if they just built Opel Insignias instead of Buicks.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
That's why initial cost is just one factor when figuring out the cost of driving a particular car. A buick might cost less than a Lexus initially, but when you calculate the trade in value after 5 years of driving......which car actually cost less to own. That chart sounds very useful.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
That is debatable. What is not debatable is that your initial statement was wrong. But brownie points on trying to recover from it.
for other people, it is all about the dollars and cents of ownership, or loonies and toonies.