Did you recently take on (or consider) a loan of 84 months or longer on a car purchase?
A reporter would like to speak with you about your experience; please reach out to PR@Edmunds.com by 7/22 for details.
Options

Stories from the Sales Frontlines

1149014911493149514962003

Comments

  • sterlingdogsterlingdog Member Posts: 6,984
    "Under those conditions a smooth ride and comfort are important."

    Excellent point. You don't need much horse power and handling when you live in a state with flat roads. You do, however, need nice suspension for a comfortable ride.

    Richard
  • Kirstie_HKirstie_H Administrator Posts: 11,242
    Or, you can drive it for a few years, sell it, and get most of your money back out of it. Doesn't sound like you'll be putting a lot of new miles on it.

    My grandmother lived in a retirement community, and she spent most of her time visiting and helping care for neighbors with health or mobility issues. She always knew which ones were giving up driving, and advertised their vehicles for them via word of mouth to her (extensive) family and church friends. I got a sweet deal on a barely-driven, 8-year-ish-old LeBaron that had about the same mileage. Bought it for $2300 and sold it a couple of years later for $1700.

    Having friends or relatives who live in retirement communities and who keep their ears to the ground is a great asset!

    MODERATOR /ADMINISTRATOR
    Find me at kirstie_h@edmunds.com - or send a private message by clicking on my name.
    2015 Kia Soul, 2021 Subaru Forester (kirstie_h), 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 (mr. kirstie_h)
    Review your vehicle

  • verdugoverdugo Member Posts: 2,288
    Finally. He's going to get the "feel of the couch".

    LOL That was too funny Richard.
  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,586
    Edmunds and they say it's worth $8600 private party in my area

    That's good to know...my BIL and SIL say I should offer $4500. Then she can ask more. I feel a little funny going that low! So, that price of $5500 even sounds reasonable considering it is pegged at $8600.

    Maybe I can get it for $4500 and then flip it to you for $5500 :P

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,586
    I rushed to the store and got the extra credit. Having done that, I now feel that the car repair was only $100.

    I do that kind of thing too. If you don't find a real way to save you may have to cut some coupons out of the grocery store flyer this week.

    I hate going back to claim my money but it sure does feel good tracking down and finding that lower price. It appeals to our natural hunting instincts I guess. Hunt down the price markdown, and then go off to the big bad retailers to claim your refund.

    Nicely done!

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,586
    You do, however, need nice suspension for a comfortable ride.

    Actually, the 535 has 4 different settings for ride, performance and handling. Eco - which kind of sucks, but nice to have if gas prices go up/Comfort - which they should call The Old Buick ride, and is just too soft and mushy for my taste/Sport - which is pretty firm suspension and steering is firmer too - I much prefer this one/ and Super Sport which is extra firm, but when this one is on the traction control is disabled and I think TC is too important not to have on.

    So, what I am saying is, I'll be surprised if I find out I prefer "The Feel of the Couch" to the "Feel of the Road".

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,586
    Or, you can drive it for a few years, sell it, and get most of your money back out of it.

    That's probably a good way of looking at it...with the Driver averaging program it still comes to pretty reasonable transportation. Have to see how well it was kept to, I have seen people with chicken bones all over the floor of the car.

    Florida probably is a good place for car sales if you hit it right. I have heard there are estate sales all the time for household furniture and I suppose cars would go along with that.

    I'll add that to my list of good features about Florida, I am trying to get more people to move down here so our property values go up.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • tjc78tjc78 Member Posts: 16,942
    All joking aside, if you like the "firm" setting on a BMW there is really no way you are going to be happy with a Crown Vic or a GM. They are large, floaty cars with very disconnected steering (although that got much better from 03 on)

    2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic

  • jmonroejmonroe Member Posts: 8,989
    Lots of GM vs. Hyundai back-and-forth and thought you might want to weigh in with your story about the XG350.

    Thanks for the link.

    I went over there, did my rant now I’m back home again. :)

    Not terribly surprised that the Broncos got hammered on Saturday.

    See.. I knew all along that the NFL wasn't fixed. They just have some teams like the Steelers that need fixing. :sick:

    So, tell us, how was that week in Bronco land after that fairytale ending with the Steelers last week? I can't believe that too many people thought the bubble wouldn't burst.

    jmonroe

    '15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,586
    edited January 2012
    Crown Vic or a GM. They are large, floaty cars with very disconnected steering

    Thanks for the heads up tic. I keep saying to myself, well, how bad can it be? The words "large", "floaty" and "disconected steering" do not sound very good to my ears. I know my wife won't want to drive it at all if she experiences those things. She's had an MG, a few Volvos, an MB, and a BMW now-so you can imagine what she is going to think of those characteristics. That means I'll be driving the Ford and she will want to drive my car. I was hoping a test drive in a Fusion would win her over. We'll look at the Ford but I have my doubts, unless I can flip it to Old Farmer.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • oldfarmer50oldfarmer50 Member Posts: 24,191
    "...flip it to you foe $5500..."

    I'd be tempted. Especially when you consider what low mile cars like that are going for:

    http://tampa.craigslist.org/hil/ctd/2795572538.html

    BTW, Edmunds seems to be in "holiday" mode as I have had trouble signing in today. Is there another party going on? :confuse:

    2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible

  • tjc78tjc78 Member Posts: 16,942
    She's had an MG, a few Volvos, an MB, and a BMW now-so you can imagine what she is going to think of those characteristics.

    Go in with an open mind. I'm just trying to "keep it real" so to speak. I think they are great cars. Plenty of room, reliable, tough and comfortable. The problem is they don't drive like what you are used to. For what you are looking to do with it, it may be perfect.

    One other thing to note is that they are hugely popular in Florida and by having one you will look like a local!

    2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic

  • Kirstie_HKirstie_H Administrator Posts: 11,242
    Not for me! I saw a couple of other folks having sign in issues too, and the only solution at the moment seems to be to keep trying until you beat the system into submission. I'll report your troubles too.

    MODERATOR /ADMINISTRATOR
    Find me at kirstie_h@edmunds.com - or send a private message by clicking on my name.
    2015 Kia Soul, 2021 Subaru Forester (kirstie_h), 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 (mr. kirstie_h)
    Review your vehicle

  • ray80ray80 Member Posts: 1,655
    Include me in that sign in problem, thought I was being given a timeout for something I said somewhere. :)
  • fezofezo Member Posts: 10,386
    It's a shame that CV is in Florida. I know a guy up here who is hard up for money and loves those things. He's currently driving a GM that he's had forever and now has 250K on it and is holding up mostly out of habit. I have to find him one around here. He's 75 and doesn't get this computer stuff....
    2015 Mazda 6 Grand Touring, 2014 Mazda 3 Sport Hatchback, 1999 Mazda Miata 2004 Toyota Camry LE, 1999.
  • fezofezo Member Posts: 10,386
    Include me in that sign in problem, thought I was being given a timeout for something I said somewhere.

    Nah. That was oldfarmer's problem... :D
    2015 Mazda 6 Grand Touring, 2014 Mazda 3 Sport Hatchback, 1999 Mazda Miata 2004 Toyota Camry LE, 1999.
  • michaellnomichaellno Member Posts: 4,120
    So, tell us, how was that week in Bronco land after that fairytale ending with the Steelers last week? I can't believe that too many people thought the bubble wouldn't burst.

    They are comparing the win against the Steelers to "The Drive" back in '86 with John Elway. Probably 1 of the top 5 moments in franchise history.

    One newspaper columnist suggested that the game against the Patriots didn't matter, as the Broncos were playing with house money at this point of the season.

    Honestly, I don't think anybody expected a team that was 4-12 last season, started this year at 1-4 and replaced their veteran QB with a 2nd year player to make the playoffs. Guess nobody else really wanted the AFC West this season.

    If you read Peter King on si.com, he compares Kyle Orton's first 5 games of this season against Tebow's last 5 games (including the 2 playoff games). Both were 1-4 and Orton actually had a better QB rating.

    So, lots of work to be done. Elway has already confirmed that Tebow will be the #1 QB when camp opens in July, but I suspect that another QB (or two) will be brought in via free agency or the draft. Lots of other areas to address, including the interior defensive line and probably the secondary - Bailey and Dawkins are starting to enter the twilight of their careers, and the team will need to develop some strong replacements.

    But, it was certainly fun while it lasted.

    BTW, saw your post in the other thread. We'll see what sort of response it gets.
  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,586
    Even that looks pretty good for $9000 with 28000 miles!

    I had trouble signing in a few times today too. If you try reply first, then sign in, it is easier. Staff must be opening another full barrel of suds today.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,586
    The problem is they don't drive like what you are used to

    I agree, I just believe in full disclosure. I would rather know what to look for or expect before making any decisions. It sounds like a good deal but if my wife or me don't like the way it drives or handles (which is a big possibility), then there is no use buying it. In many ways, I would rather pay more for a two year old Fusion or Jetta. At least my wife can get a 6-speed and I'll be able to be the sole driver of the 535. She'll drive the 535 if she has to, but would prefer a smaller car with manual transmission.

    I don't like it when other people drive my car. :mad:

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,586
    It's a shame that CV is in Florida.

    This is the land of CVs, GMs, Caddies, Buicks, and more and more BMW, Audi, and MBs, especially closer to Sarasota.

    There's even a Ford dealer that advertises just $99 dealer prep charge....because we don't think you should pay more so you can buy a car from us.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • houdini1houdini1 Member Posts: 8,351
    Another big advantage of the Crown Vic is if things go really bad you can always live in the thing. If Obama gets re elected the price of those Crown Vics will skyrocket !! ;)

    2013 LX 570 2016 LS 460

  • explorerx4explorerx4 Member Posts: 20,720
    If it's a Ford, it's a Crown Vic, not a GM. That's a Mercury.
    A few things to look for.
    Check to see if it was 1 or 2 exhaust pipes.
    1 is standard engine and suspension, 2 means cop car upgrade.
    Take a look at the rear suspension.
    Standard is coil springs.
    If it has the air suspension setup (rubber bags), that can be expensive to fix.
    Assuming the car is 8 years old, I would plan on buying new tires if you are going to drive it on the highway.
    Hot weather is tough on batteries, so ask if it has been replaced.
    Maybe she even has maintenance records(was the oil ever changed?).
    Don't ask her that question, just see if you can get an idea of how it was maintained.
    I'm guessing it's white with a sand color fake convertible roof. :P
    2024 Ford F-150 STX, 2023 Ford Explorer ST, 91 Mustang GT vert
  • houdini1houdini1 Member Posts: 8,351
    Same thing has happened to me recently. Just figured you had tied one on and could not make it in to work (crawl to the computer). :)

    2013 LX 570 2016 LS 460

  • snakeweaselsnakeweasel Member Posts: 19,592
    That could be true, all I am saying is it is best to give full disclosure to your sister. If it was me, for example, I would say, I do know of someone who had this problem with their Sonata. I don't know if that matters to you, but I wanted to mention it as it might influence you.

    Good point, will jmonroe and others in the spirit of full discovery mention to others mine or other peoples excellent warranty experience? Will jmonroe after telling his story of his XG say "in the interest of full disclosure I will tell you that I know one person who when his Hyundai had over 135K miles Hyundai replaced a faulty exhaust manifold that cracked with no questions asked"?

    Maybe I should get a certain Azera owner that I know to come here and tell his story.

    2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D

  • explorerx4explorerx4 Member Posts: 20,720
    Just keep trying. 3rd time lucky over here. IL took more creativity.
    I tried so many things, I'm not sure what worked. :blush:
    2024 Ford F-150 STX, 2023 Ford Explorer ST, 91 Mustang GT vert
  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,586
    Will jmonroe after telling his story of his XG say "in the interest of full disclosure

    Jmonroe only has to disclose his own experience. You can add your experience, and your friends with an Azera as well, but you have to disclose all 3 to be impartial and fair.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • snakeweaselsnakeweasel Member Posts: 19,592
    Jmonroe only has to disclose his own experience.

    Then I only have to disclose my own experience.

    2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,586
    1 is standard engine and suspension, 2 means cop car upgrade.

    Excellent suggestions about what to look for and I will keep them all in mind. I will check, but I doubt if it was an ex cop car. This is a widow whose husband recently died, she won't drive it.

    All the points sound like good things to check. Sometimes old people really let their cars and homes go. It could either be mint or a real beater. My BIL says it looks like it is in great condition.

    Those sand colored fake convertibles are a big hit down here.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,586
    Then I only have to disclose my own experience.

    Do you think that is being fair to your sister?

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • snakeweaselsnakeweasel Member Posts: 19,592
    Yes seeing its the only warranty experience I have first hand knowledge of.

    Do you think Jmonroe is being fair if he only says negative things?

    2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D

  • explorerx4explorerx4 Member Posts: 20,720
    edited January 2012
    I don't mean ex cop car. You could get the cop car upgrades with the 'Performance and Handling Package'.
    I'm sure you could get the sand color fake convertible look added to your 5.
    Tempted? :)
    2024 Ford F-150 STX, 2023 Ford Explorer ST, 91 Mustang GT vert
  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 18,320
    I'm sure you could get the sand color fake convertible look added to your 5.

    Don't forget the gold trim and a fake continental kit! :P

    Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
    Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
    Son's: 2018 330i xDrive

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,586
    Do you think Jmonroe is being fair if he only says negative things?

    He's just telling us what happened to him. He says he liked his Hyundai before he had the problem and he has told us he liked his Hyundais up until that happened. If I had a friend who was looking at a Sonata I would tell them about this warranty problem and let them decide whether it bothers them.

    I have 2 neigbors here in Florida who have Hyundais and they like their cars. I wouldn't tell them about the problem, it can't help.

    I don't understand why you wouldn't mention it and only want your sister to know the positives. Why wouldn't you want her to know this could be a problem, or at least it might be worth looking into it to see how widespread the problem is? If someone had a warranty problem with BMW I would rather know about it. I might buy one and maybe I wouldn't, but I would rather have all the facts I can get before deciding.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,586
    I'm sure you could get the sand color fake convertible look added to your 5.

    Yeh, the 5 is white so it could look really cool.

    I can just imagine the people around St Armands Circle getting a good chuckle out of seeing me drive by.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,586
    Don't forget the gold trim and a fake continental kit!

    Maybe wire wheels and white walls too!

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • explorerx4explorerx4 Member Posts: 20,720
    edited January 2012
    See, you're most of the way there already!
    If you put on some fake wire wheels, don't forget to upgrade to some 14's from your OEM 17's or 18's.
    Those taller sidewalls save the rims when you run over the curbs while parking.
    2024 Ford F-150 STX, 2023 Ford Explorer ST, 91 Mustang GT vert
  • fezofezo Member Posts: 10,386
    What? Nobody up yet?

    Well, I'm off to two different blood docs today including teh main one at Sloan Kettering. Maybe I'll have some news tonight. I am gonna need a big gift card for my Nook when all this goes down.... That and guitar strings....
    2015 Mazda 6 Grand Touring, 2014 Mazda 3 Sport Hatchback, 1999 Mazda Miata 2004 Toyota Camry LE, 1999.
  • jmonroejmonroe Member Posts: 8,989
    Elway has already confirmed that Tebow will be the #1 QB when camp opens in July, but I suspect that another QB (or two) will be brought in via free agency or the draft.

    I heard Elway saying that this morning while listening to Mike & Mike during my drive to work. That’s not a resounding vote of confidence but it will make for good talk show talk during the off season.

    Not too many people know bad pro football teams better than me and my generation here in the Burgh. My father started taking me to see the Steelers when Jimmy Finks was their quarterback back in the early 50’s. FWIW, Fink’s wore number 7, not that he could be compared to Elway or even Big Ben but I remember those lean years. They were turned all around in ’72. Yes, I was at the Immaculate Reception game. Three Rivers Stadium only had 50,350 seats at the time but there were 200,000 Pittsburger’s at that game if you heard them tell it. Son #1 still says, “prove it. Show me your ticket stub”. :confuse: I don’t have it so you’ll just have to take my word for it. :D

    I think I know what the city of Denver felt like after their playoff win last week.

    jmonroe

    '15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl

  • jmonroejmonroe Member Posts: 8,989
    Do you think Jmonroe is being fair if he only says negative things?

    ‘snake’, just for the fun of it I went to the woman here who wanted to buy a 2012 Sonata until she heard of my experience with our ‘05 XG350. I even copied your post (76364) and gave it to her. I don’t think I’m allowed to tell you where she told me to put that piece of paper. I then went to the guy here who has the 11 year old Volvo that was also interested in a Sonata; pretty much the same comment.

    You had a good dealer. I didn’t. And let’s not forget that Hyundai went along with all of this so there was no sense for me to go to another dealer.

    jmonroe

    '15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl

  • nyccarguynyccarguy Member Posts: 17,487
    Dave - I've seen this 1999 BMW E36 M3 Auto Convertible sitting on a Subaru Dealer's lot near my house for about a month.

    I'm just catching up today on the posts. Haven't checked since Thursday or Friday. I had to travel to The 'Burgh for a whirlwind weekend. In on Saturday afternoon, on the road by the time the 3rd quarter of the GIANTS game on Sunday night. My Grandfather died at the ripe age of 88.

    some random NFL playoff commentary:

    Michaell - I thought the Broncos had a "defense." Don't they watch film of what happens when you let Brady stand in the pocket for an hour? He picked apart that "defense."

    Can any of our resident english language experts here tell me if there is another way to spell elite without ELI? Watch out San Fransisco! Here come the mighty GIANTS!

    2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD

  • sterlingdogsterlingdog Member Posts: 6,984
    Well, you could use the Latin form of "electus" or the Middle English form of "elit" without the final "e". You could also place the acute accent mark over the initial "e". I'm afraid that's about it. :D By the way, don't forget to always capitalize the word "English" when referring to the language. :)

    Richard
  • mako1amako1a Member Posts: 1,855
    edited January 2012
    Thanks, NY. I'll see your E36 and raise you an E46. Price may go thru the roof.

    2003 M3 A/T

    image

    image

    2013 Mustang GT, 2001 GMC Yukon Denali

  • fezofezo Member Posts: 10,386
    Just reporting nothing going on. Darn NY trips. Never know how long to get in so we are really early.
    2015 Mazda 6 Grand Touring, 2014 Mazda 3 Sport Hatchback, 1999 Mazda Miata 2004 Toyota Camry LE, 1999.
  • jipsterjipster Member Posts: 6,296
    edited January 2012
    Why wouldn't you want her to know this could be a problem, or at least it might be worth looking into it to see how widespread the problem is? If someone had a warranty problem with BMW I would rather know about it. I might buy one and maybe I wouldn't

    First, big difference between Hyundai and BMW. I don't think people with BMW's would be as likely to report a warranty problem, might hurt their image as a bimmer owner. Secondly, people with BMW's are more likely brand loyal than lower priced/image Hyundai buyers. And turdly, I agree with snakie pooh. A sample of one owner shouldn't be enough to sway the buying inclination of an intelligent buyer.

    By the way, and maybe I missed it, but what was the problem with jmonroe's records? I read something about a discrepancy, but nothing specific.

    Like I noted in an earlier post, and pay attention people, the economy has been in the dumps the last couple years. Auto manufacturers, even Honda, aren't stepping up to the plate and covering warranty items that are in the grey area like they use to. Your high end players like BMW are more likely to cover that grey area, as they don't want to lose their well paid, and loyal, customer base.
    2021 Honda Passport EX-L, 2020 Honda Accord EX-L, 2011 Hyundai Veracruz, 2010 Mercury Milan Premiere.
  • jipsterjipster Member Posts: 6,296
    I went to the woman here who wanted to buy a 2012 Sonata until she heard of my experience with our ‘05 XG350

    Hard to understand why she would do that... unless you were about the 500th person who reported to her they had had a problem with Hyundai's warranty. :confuse:
    2021 Honda Passport EX-L, 2020 Honda Accord EX-L, 2011 Hyundai Veracruz, 2010 Mercury Milan Premiere.
  • jmonroejmonroe Member Posts: 8,989
    My condolences on the passing of your Grandfather.

    Your Giants have as good a chance as anyone of getting to the Super Bowl. If they meet the Patriots again the outcome could be the same. I don’t want to put the cart in front of the horse but it is an interesting thought.

    jmonroe

    '15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl

  • jmonroejmonroe Member Posts: 8,989
    Hard to understand why she would do that... unless you were about the 500th person who reported to her they had had a problem with Hyundai's warranty.

    ‘snake’ wanted to know if I would pass on both sides of the tale and I did. I guess you’d have to ask her why she is now turned off of Hyundai. I did my part don’t shoot the messenger.

    If you want to know about my XG350 problem, go look at post 74861. There are others but that should get you started.

    jmonroe

    '15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl

  • fezofezo Member Posts: 10,386
    Giants - Pats II is exactly what I'm pulling for!
    2015 Mazda 6 Grand Touring, 2014 Mazda 3 Sport Hatchback, 1999 Mazda Miata 2004 Toyota Camry LE, 1999.
  • michaellnomichaellno Member Posts: 4,120
    Michaell - I thought the Broncos had a "defense." Don't they watch film of what happens when you let Brady stand in the pocket for an hour? He picked apart that "defense."

    Yup.

    Denver has some good edge rushers in Dumervil and Miller - they just gotta get someone who can rush the passer from the interior. Broncos have the 25th pick in the 1st round, and there are a couple of different ways they can go with it - backup QB to challenge Tebow or a defensive lineman. Could also get a CB or Safety or perhaps even another RB to switch off with McGahee.

    Sorry to hear about your grandfather's passing. 88 is a nice, full life.
  • jipsterjipster Member Posts: 6,296
    go look at post 74861

    Hmmm, good ole jipster must have missed that one. I thought you must have put cooking oil in the crankcase instead of motor oil. You're right... you were screwed over. :mad:

    I did my part don’t shoot the messenger

    Speaking of shooting... anyone have any opinion on a good home defense or conceal carry weapon?. I'm looking at a Ruger LC9 and a Glock 19. :surprise:
    2021 Honda Passport EX-L, 2020 Honda Accord EX-L, 2011 Hyundai Veracruz, 2010 Mercury Milan Premiere.
This discussion has been closed.