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Stories from the Sales Frontlines

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  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,593
    ....oh...say 20,000 miles and is 1-2 years old, $21,000 would be the number on a used one.

    I would agree completely. You are saying you are paying 2/3s the price, but the truck has only used up 20% of it's life in my example below (which I started to write before you posted).

    We are on about the same page....and $7500 savings is worth considering but the truck has to be mint.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,381
    GG's #s sound about right.

    in my case, not an issue for my wife because she just wants new. Doesn't like the idea of getting a car that other people have been smelling up, etc. pre-tainted? And it is her luxury item, and that is fine by me.

    For my car, it will be used (well used!) just due to necessity. So i doubt that the new to 1-2 year used spread will come into play.

    But, the way I look at it is, "what can I get for my money"? If they budget is say the 31K, instead of just saying how much cheaper can I get a 2YO version of the same car for, I think "what else used can I get for the same money?"

    New CRV or CPO X3? something like that.

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • fezofezo Member Posts: 10,386
    It depends on a lot of factors determining what the used vs. new should be and what makes it worth it.

    I agree with a lot of what you said but take the case of my Solara. I bought it 4 years old with 40K on it and paid half what the original owner did. I figure I have way more than half the life left in it so I'm ahead of the game. Throw in that I wouldn't have bought a new one (if they were still making them at that point) because they were just too pricey for me for what they are.

    I'll probably get 8 or 10 years out of the thing.

    To me the fact that it already has its first dong is just as well. No looking around for when that happens. I will grant you it looked perfect when I bought it but I have managed to learn over the years that there's a lot of quick fix paint things the dealer does that disappear after a couple of weeks. It's actually in very nice shape. Other than the fact that it drives like Toyota's version of sporty (a Buick with slight tuning modifications) I couldn't be happier. Well, not true. An A4 convertible would make me happier.....
    2015 Mazda 6 Grand Touring, 2014 Mazda 3 Sport Hatchback, 1999 Mazda Miata 2004 Toyota Camry LE, 1999.
  • [Deleted User][Deleted User] Posts: 0
    edited June 2012
    Fort Collins. Given your sample there, with 1 out of 10 cars a Subaru, you're roughly 5 times higher than Subaru's overall US sales representation. If I remember correctly off the top of my head, Subaru sales are about 2% of overall sales in the US, so your small sample equals a pretty dense population with that one Subaru :D
  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,593
    It depends on a lot of factors determining what the used vs. new should be and what makes it worth it.

    But, best to inherit if at all possible.
    (fezo)

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • fezofezo Member Posts: 10,386
    But, best to inherit if at all possible.

    I wouldn't know....
    2015 Mazda 6 Grand Touring, 2014 Mazda 3 Sport Hatchback, 1999 Mazda Miata 2004 Toyota Camry LE, 1999.
  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,381
    Well, if you outlive Farmer, you should find out, because I think he was serious about leaving you his van in his will. And I bet his wife would be happy for you to come take it (your wife, different story!)

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • nyccarguynyccarguy Member Posts: 17,504
    I've exclusively owned new cars since I got my license @ 16 (aside from an E30 325i I bought for $950 as a project car that never panned out). I KNOW that cars today are built to last. I disagree with driver100 that a car's lifespan is 100,000 miles. I keep telling myself that my next ride (when the lease is up on my 328xi in September 2014) should be some kind of 1-2 year old model, or I could just keep running on the "leasing hampster wheel."

    Let's take a look at the 2 vehicles I purchased in the last year, my wife's 2011 Honda Pilot EX-L w/ NAV & my 2011 BMW 328xi.

    A new 2012 Pilot equipped as my wife's has an MSRP of $39,150. Edmunds has its TMV pegged at $35,800. A quick search on Honda's website of CPO vehicles shows an identical CPO 2011 to my wife's listed for $31,495 with 20,000 miles. Let's say you knock what, $2500 off their CPO asking price and buy the car for $28,995. The $6800 difference just isn't worth it to me, especially since I'm financing the vehicle and planning to keep it for 150,000 miles (at least).

    Now we all know that I leased a 2011 Leftover BMW 328xi Sedan in March 2012. I was able to negotiate (using a $2500 incentive from BMW) over $5444 off of the car's MSRP of $44,160. That brought the selling price of my lease down to $38,716. BMW has a similarly equipped (Prem/Cold Weather/Nav/Sat Radio although mine has Xenon headlights) 2009 CPO 328xi with 39,441 miles listed for $28,195. Lets say you can negotiate the same $2500 discount and can buy the car for $25,695. Yes I'm getting a (once) $44K car for a heavily discounted price of $25,695 ($18,465 off of the original MSRP) which is a good thing. However, the car will be out of warranty & free maintenance period within 6 months (I do 20K per year driving). At 50K this car will need front & rear brakes and an Inspection II Major service before 60K. If I take out a 36 month loan to pay for this vehicle, my payments will be somewhere in the $760 - $770 ish per month range with ZERO down. My current lease payment is $572/month including 6.35% Sales Tax with a ZERO cap cost reduction. Maybe if I had cash to buy the car with or put down $10K and paid the loan off in 1.5 years then it might make sense.

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

  • tifightertifighter Member Posts: 3,786
    I agree with the numbers you guys are throwing out there. The market has shifted, I wonder if it will correct or if this is the new reality.

    Specific to my case, I'm considering a Ridgeline. Stop laughing. The numbers so far: 2012 new RTL lists for $35K, $32.5K seems doable in my area, $32 might be a stretch. Best price I can find CPO is a 2011 RTL for $27k. I looked at it, and it is spotless. This is about $2k lower than any other local CPO for 10's, much less 11's. Honda CPO gives this the same APR as new, extends the warranty beyond that of a new one and there are no changes from the 11 to 12. But it still feels close to new, which is why I asked the question. Is it just me, or is this the new reality?

    Tidbit - Did you know the Ridgeline is up over 30% YTD over last year's sales? Weird.

    25 NX 450h+ / 24 Sienna Plat AWD / 23 Civic Type-R / 21 Boxster GTS 4.0 / 03 Montero Ltd

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,593
    I am not sure if you can make out the chart, it shows sales are up but they were pretty low to begin with, so an increase from 672 units in May 2011 compared to 1199 in 2012 isn't that spectacular. But, that isn't important....the Ridgeline seems to suit your needs and it is probably a good truck.

    If you can save $5000 or so buying a perfectly adequate truck because it is slightly previously driven then that isn't a bad thing. If you were to trade it in in 4 or 5 years it would probably be worth at least that much less.

    Affordability is another factor however. Why stretch the bank book if the 2011 model will do the job, and payments are easier to handle? If there is a 2013 model you might wait and buy a 2012 later in the year...they may clear them out at a good price.

    Month Honda Ridgeline
    U.S. Sales 2010 Honda RIdgeline
    2010 2011 2012
    January 738 855 1245


    February 982 908 1370


    March 1416 1211 1215


    April 1732 952 1055


    May 1853 672 1199

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,593
    I disagree with driver100 that a car's lifespan is 100,000 miles.

    Our neighbor has a 10 year old Jetta Diesel with 280000 miles on it.

    To me, the lifespan is a maximum of 100,000 miles because I can't handle the extra repairs and inconvenience of a car that will need things done to it to keep it running. Sure, cars can go 400 or 500k miles, but that's not for me.

    I agree, if you have to stretch it to buy new as opposed to used, then you are probably better off buying used or buy something that will cost less. I think the big thing is somehow you have to get a car paid off soon enough, so that what becomes the important factor is the difference you will pay when you trade in your old car.

    If you do the math, you may find that with repairs and everything else it costs $4000 a year to own a used car, it costs $5000 or $6000 to drive a new one. Like I say, I'll give up a bottle of wine a day, a pack of cigarettes, a few lattes, whatever to do that. Depends on priorities, and how much you can stretch the budget, and how important owning a new car is....not just for vanity but because it makes your life easier.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,381
    in my house, anything for the wife is going to be new. And not very often. I can go either way. my current car was used (but intended to go to my daughter). 2 before that new buys, before that a string of used.

    My next "me" car for sure will be used (budget and need reasons)

    but, with the wife looking and getting fixated on the MDX (my cold puritanical heart skipped a beat just typing that) I was considering a lease. Noodled with the #s, and I guess it would come down to about 3 year lease nothing down vs. 5 years with ~12K down (equal payments).

    but, as my wife said, "in 3 years i don't have anything"! Missing the "hey, time for a new car" bonus.

    so assuming I have my #s right, I am basically looking at about 12K now + 2 years payments (another 12K @500/mo) =12K.

    so, 24K to Buy" a 3 YO RDX (financed for 2 years). Though of course, the last 2 years would be payments on a 2nd lease?

    so doing the math over (I better put this all on my spreadsheet!), for 12K now, in 5 years I will own outright a 5 YO RDX, instead of being in year 3 of a lease on a 2 YO one?

    maybe this is why I always just buy outright! I did make the wife commit that whatever we get new, she has to be prepared to keep it for 10 years.

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • graphicguygraphicguy Member Posts: 14,123
    ti.....as driver points out, the numbers were pretty small to begin with. So, an increase in sale wouldn't have been that tough. One other factor to keep in mind, at some point you're going to want to trade/sell the Ridgeline. It's going to be an orphan. That doesn't make it a bad vehicle. Just a vehicle that really didn't succeed in our marketplace. It's also a testament to the strangle hold Ford/Dodge/Chevy has on the pickup truck market here in North America.

    Will that affect the value down the road? Not sure. However, I know once Saturn shut their doors, their vehicles dropped like a stone regarding resale value.

    Honda has a better rep than Saturn, though.

    So, it's anyone's guess.

    Aren't there any incentives on new Ridgelines? I would imagine that Honda wants to get these off the lots as quickly as they can.

    Personally, $5K delta (vs new) wouldn't be enough for me to buy the used one you're looking at. Since it is indeed an orphan, it would have to be closer to a $10K delta IMHO.
    2024 Kia EV6 GT-Line AWD Long Range
  • abacomikeabacomike Member Posts: 12,388
    I find there is no direct correlation…

    *Graphicguy, no question about it. Each of us here on the forum have experienced "...the GOOD, the BAD, and the UGLY when it comes to buying cars!

    I have dealt with a Mercedes dealer in Delray Beach for 5 new E350's, and got the best deals and the best service and respect I could have ever wished for. I was spoiled by that experience, to be sure. They earned by business and all the referrals I sent them who bought cars from them. I certainly can't say that about my last experience with my Lexus dealership.

    But you are right on target with your comments!

    2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger

  • abacomikeabacomike Member Posts: 12,388
    ...curious to see the delta between...

    *tifighter, in my opinion on this subject, it is more than just price and miles - so much has to do with condition (interior and exterior) as well as color (aesthetics).

    Most research on this subject shows that $5000 difference in the negotiated pricing of a new car vs. pre-owned is the starting point where people begin to consider the pre-owned vehicle that is ONE YEAR OLDER THAN A NEW VEHICLE. I believe that the ideal point where I would consider pre-owned over new (1 year old) is $7500 with no more than 12000 miles on it and in clean condition.

    2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,593
    the ideal point where I would consider pre-owned over new (1 year old) is $7500 with no more than 12000 miles on it and in clean condition.

    That sounds sensible. Maybe a 25 to 30% lower price than new car price, because obviously, this amount may change if we were discussing an $18000 car.

    You did say something very important. Condition inside and out are factors. And color is a big factor too....one reason I prefer a new car is because I am getting exactly the colors and equipment I want.

    Conversely, you may get a used vehicle with more equipment you would like at an affordable price. These are all variables that have to be considered.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • tifightertifighter Member Posts: 3,786
    edited June 2012
    GG - the Ridgeline is actually an interesting topic. True, the numbers are small, and have been for a number of years. What makes the increase interesting is, why now? There was no content change; okay gas prices are a little lower, there was a tsunami last year although I'm not sure how much this affected the RL. No incentives to move them.

    Why buy a Ridgeline at all? Most of my thoughts are here, but to summarize: the interior size is 'just right' sized to me, usable back seat (unlike midsize), not too long (like full size). I'm not towing or hauling big payloads, but want to carry awkward sized items and have space for four adults. The Ridgeline isn't a truck, but a Pilot with the back cut off, and I've come to realize that that's really all I need.

    Anyhow, because it has been a small seller, production is low. I had to go to 3 dealers to find a new one. As mentioned, no incentives, not even factory to dealer, just special APR. I'd expect average resale, with the orphan and Honda things cancelling each other out.

    There has been a lot of speculation as to whether or not it would be cancelled after this year. The current thought among the honda followers, based on dodgy leaks, is that there will be a 2013, it will be mostly carryover, adding a standard backup camera, maybe refreshed front clip and an updated Nav/Media system. Why does Honda bother, with such low numbers? RL owners are loyal, the forums have people who have owned 2 or 3. Maybe the dealers have fought for it in order to have something to show non-typical Honda buyers? Who knows? As I said, the Ridgeline is an interesting topic, both as a vehicle, and as a business case.

    25 NX 450h+ / 24 Sienna Plat AWD / 23 Civic Type-R / 21 Boxster GTS 4.0 / 03 Montero Ltd

  • oldfarmer50oldfarmer50 Member Posts: 24,217
    edited June 2012
    "...MB is becoming a big seller of vans in America..."

    They have been selling them for years down here with a Dodge nameplate. They call it the Sprinter Van. People like the walk-in height. The $60,000 price tag, not so much.

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

  • oldfarmer50oldfarmer50 Member Posts: 24,217
    "...is you school bus a BMW?..."

    No but many of them have engines made by MB. :)

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

  • oldfarmer50oldfarmer50 Member Posts: 24,217
    edited June 2012
    "...to be worth buying..."

    At least 30% less to sooth my paranoia that the previous owner spent that year burning rubber and entering demo derbys. :lemon: Also since most year old used cars are rental cars I'd be double paranoid.

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

  • oldfarmer50oldfarmer50 Member Posts: 24,217
    "...his wife would be happy for you to come take it..."

    That's for sure. Just check the back before you go because she might find it easier to slip my corpse in there rather than drag that big cardboard box all the way out to the curb on trash day. :sick:

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

  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 18,338
    Today my son announced that he would be happy to take the X3 to college with him. He likes the ability to carry four people comfortably as well as the fact that it isn't very fast- he admitted that if he had anything quick/nimble he'd be unable to resist the temptation to teach the local ricers and mullet heads who was boss. Anyway, he can always borrow one of Dad's rides if the temptation becomes too strong or he wants to attend an HPDE... :P
    So now it looks like my wife will be getting the next car, most likely a Mini Cooper Clubman- although an E90 328i, a Fiat 500 and a CX5 may also be in the mix. How's that for cross-shopping?

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

  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,381
    I assume he is going to KU? do they let freshman even have a car on campus? I believe me son's school didn't allow it (and when they did, the rules where so restrictive it wasn't worth the effort! remote parking only, stuff like that).

    I know that a lot of schools flat out won't allow Freshman to have cars. And thinking back to my college days, probably a good idea!

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 18,338
    I assume he is going to KU? do they let freshman even have a car on campus?

    He's either going to Belmont(Nashville), Xavier(Cincinnati), or USC(South Carolina).

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

  • bolivarbolivar Member Posts: 2,316
    I've mumbled here previously about my Ridgeline, but here goes again, and hopefully it will help you.
    I've got a 2006, bought Dec 2005, this was first year. It a RTL which was top of the line, with only same truck with moonroof and/or nav above it, neither of which I wanted.
    Every time I've looked at a newer one, they has been almost NO changes. Added a few options to the radio, but most of the things that are now available were available in 2006 on Honda aftermarket accessory list.
    The truck has 43,000 mile (I don't drive much and with 2 of us, we have 3 cars). It's never been in for repair. One alignment, brake flush, antifreeze, rear diff fluid replacement, all maintenance stuff. Tires look like they will easily go 10,000 more, probably 20,000. Car&Driver projected brakes to 80,000 on their one year test Ridgeline. Tires are getting a little noisy, but I like them, Michelin XTS or something like that. Goes good in the snow, 8 inches on level ground don't phase it.
    People have had problem with shocks. Mine has been 99% on pavement, but I admit there is a little rattle in the suspension. Just on occasional rough places I hear a little.
    The truck is very smooth riding. I did ride for several hours in the back seat, and it is too 'upright' for long sessions. Feels ok, but not nearly as nice at the front buckets. We also own a 2005 Deville, and the ride is not a deciding factor as to which vehicle we take on a trip. It doesn't have passenger power seat, memory power seats, or self dimming rear mirrors, all things I would like, and I don't think the current model has these either.
    Probably same 3.5L motor and tranny as current. Like our V6 Honda, it makes a lot of noise at wide open throttle, but it isn't really fast. The milage is crappy. But it is a brick shape on wheels pulling 4wheel drive hardware. I get about 17 to 19 on the highway, but I drive it always at 5+ speed limit. Just got stopped at 78 in a 70 a couple of weeks ago, got a warning (wheeeee!!!!!). I once saw 22mpg, but that was several years ago, and it really seems to not like the ethanol gas, it has dropped by 10% at least since that is about all I find now.
    Isell said it's got bad rear vision. I'm short. Its got removable rear headrests, pull these out and stick under the rear seat, otherwise these do really block rear view. Otherwise, I can see the rear points of the bed, and can steer by that. If you carry someone back there, it's about 1 minute to stick the headrests back in. Outside mirrors are big. With basically front wheel drive, it doesn't turn quickly. It's wide and barely goes in my standard 7 foot wide garage, but the roof does clear, with garage opener installed in there.
    For a $32,005 truck I just looked and we paid $27,659, which by my scribbles in the file was about $1,200 under invoice.
    I would expect about the same now. I think there has always been hidden cash to the dealer on this vehicle, and I would expect it's still there. Go for under invoice, I think you can get it on a new one.
  • oldfarmer50oldfarmer50 Member Posts: 24,217
    "...a Fiat 500..."

    Someone must be a J-Lo fan. ;)

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

  • kyfdxkyfdx Moderator Posts: 265,906
    I assume he is going to KU?

    Uh... that's UK..

    But, you can just call them National Champs! ;)

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  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,593
    For a $32,005 truck I just looked and we paid $27,659, which by my scribbles in the file was about $1,200 under invoice.

    A lot of good information in your review. I found it interesting to read and gave me a real sense of what a Ridgeline would be like to own.

    If you wanted to sell it Ti might be interested.

    I have a question since you had some negatives but probably more positives....if you were to do it over again would you buy a Ridgeline again?

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • mako1amako1a Member Posts: 1,855
    Speaking of Wildcats, what ever happened to QB Tim Couch?

    He was supposed to go pro then his name disappeared from the sports section.

    2013 Mustang GT, 2001 GMC Yukon Denali

  • graphicguygraphicguy Member Posts: 14,123
    mako....Tim Couch was drafted by, and played for the Cleveland Browns most of his career. He never was able to lift that franchise up, however (who really has, for that matter?). I think he bounced around a bit with Green Bay, maybe Jacksonville, if memory serves.

    Last I heard he was trying for a comeback, but no one was interested.

    bolivar, nice summation on your Ridgeline.

    Roadburner....any of those schools would be great. Personally, I'm partial to Xavier as I took a couple of MBA classes there.

    Went to have the local Fiat dealership activate my $25 gift card a couple of weeks ago. First time I got a close look at a 500. Didn't drive one, but they looked pretty slick, especially for the price (under $20K). If I were going to look at a Mini, I'd certainly put that 500 on the short list, too.
    2024 Kia EV6 GT-Line AWD Long Range
  • laurasdadalaurasdada Member Posts: 5,182
    Talking about short cars, check out the Scion IQ! Saw one at the auto show, tried to put it in my bag of brochures to take home...

    Oh, short list! Never mind.

    '21 Dark Blue/Black Audi A7 PHEV (mine); '22 White/Beige BMW X3 (hers); '20 Estoril Blue/Oyster BMW M240xi 'Vert (Ours, read: hers in 'vert weather; mine during Nor'easters...)

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,593
    For oldfarmer....were you driving this bus?

    an upstate New York bus monitor taunted and verbally abused by middle school students said Thursday that she hopes their parents will view the viral video of the attack and talk to their children about being "a little more respectful."

    The incident was captured in a 10-minute cellphone video recorded by one of the students and posted to YouTube. It shows 68-year-old Karen Klein trying her best to ignore the stream of profanity, insults and outright threats directed at her. At one point in the video, she breaks down in tears.

    School Bus Monitor abused by 10 year olds

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,381
    saw that on the news and thought of Farmer.

    They should ban all those kids from the bus for a long time. She how the parents like having to drive them to school (or they like walking).

    of course they would probably just sue and win.

    Sometimes what people do is just depressing.

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • abacomikeabacomike Member Posts: 12,388
    Sometimes what people do is just depressing

    *stickguy, depressing is a bit too understated for be - DISGUSTING and CRUEL describes it best for me. When I was a School Principal in my first life, I would EXPEL kids for that - putting the bus and passengers in danger for their health and well-being. 1st offense was 10-day suspension. 2nd offense, expulsion.

    The school district buses are considered "school grounds" by most school board policy. Breach of bus decorum was as I stated above. But with the litigious nature of today's population, the kids would get off if brought to court.

    Also, in my first life many years ago (1968-1991), teachers and school administrators were respected. Today, parents take their kid's side more often than the school's side.

    2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger

  • oldfarmer50oldfarmer50 Member Posts: 24,217
    "...were you driving this bus..."

    That is such a sad incident. No, not my bus, I'm about 250 miles from there.

    The bright side is that I hear the story generated over $100,000 in donations for that poor woman.

    If that had been my bus the abuse would have not gone on as long as it did. As you know I am a bit of a dinosaur when it comes to traditional expectations of behavior. I love to take on bullies and put them in their place. I have been cursed at by both students and parents, threatened with death by 3rd graders and even had a gun pulled on me once.

    Kids today have been told that they are without fault and this leaves them without direction. That video shows the result. Shame.

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

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,593
    , in my first life many years ago (1968-1991), teachers and school administrators were respected.

    I taught elementary school around that time too, 69 to 72, and kids weren't much better. When they got a drink at the fountain I would count to 5 and tap them on the shoulder for the next one....and I would be told you can't touch me, or my parents will sue you.

    It was better when I went to school in the 50s, that incident would never happen, we feared authority and adults.

    What will those kids grow up to be if they are like that now?

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,593
    If that had been my bus the abuse would have not gone on as long as it did.

    Thank goodness, there is hope.

    What happened to going to school should be a priveledge, learning should be special, and adults should be respected.

    Oldfarmer, one day you should go to Bermuda. The kids are all dressed nicely in uniforms, and they will stand up on the bus and offer adults their seats. It was such an amazing thing to see, and made for a much better society.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • abacomikeabacomike Member Posts: 12,388
    today's kids are told they are without fault

    Interestingly enough, *driver, is that the total donated to Mrs. Klein is now in excess of $300,000. That should buy her a nice vacation and a new home and new car! She deserves it! From what I understand from watching this on TV, is that Glen Beck, a TV personality in Texas, brought this to the attention of the country on his TV show in Texas and set up this fund to assist this grandmother whose husband passed away and that was why she was working as a bus monitor.

    Pathetic the way these kids are brought up.

    This "Ryan" who was doused with alcohol and then lit up with a lighter here in Deefield Beach (3 miles north of me) was maimed for life by 3 middle schoolers. The last one accused got off with assault while the other 2 kids got 30 years. We need more of these cases to go to court and try these kids as adults when a life is ruined.

    2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger

  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 18,338
    If that had happened in my Juvenile Court those punks would have stayed in jail until -as I used to tell them- their decaying flesh dropped from their bleached bones, in an institution where their most prized possession would be soap on a rope.

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

  • imidazol97imidazol97 Member Posts: 27,676
    > their decaying flesh dropped from their bleached bones, in an institution where their most prized possession would be soap on a rope.

    Wow. I'm surprised some crusading media person didn't try to "get you" for being that straight forward. I recall some things judges said in Cincinnati that some of the media tried to make as irresponsible. One might have been that sterilization was a good solution for one frequent welfare mother.

    2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,

  • mako1amako1a Member Posts: 1,855
    My job on a Military Base in 1996 thru 1998 had the local school ask if any of us would like to tutor math for 7th and 8th grade students.

    It was 1 1/2 hours every Tuesday and we remained on our regular pay so I volunteered. In the beginning it was easy as students really needing help came and I really helped them using the pizza slices method to accentuate division, fractions and decimal equivalents. I was nice and nobody acted up. They knew I was in charge and there to help them. We even covered some geometry.

    Later, some teachers started dumping the bad kids in there as a learning tool and as a bit of discipline because of my no nonsense methods. After I had had enough of one kid interrupting those wanting help, I showed him the door. He said where am I supposed to go. I said I don't care, go walk the halls, go to the boys room or go see the principal. His buddy said "you can't do that" To which I replied I'm not your teacher and if you don't want my help...take a hike, both of you. Closed the door and resumed helping those that needed it.

    The following Tuesday I was met by 2 teachers that were pleased to tell me how they wish they could do what I did and just dump the ones making trouble for the real learners. Even the principal agreed that the bad ones were making it tough on the rest, but he had to let them remain in class. I got an Apple Bookends set from the teachers and students at the end of the year making it all worthwhile.

    2013 Mustang GT, 2001 GMC Yukon Denali

  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 18,338
    Wow. I'm surprised some crusading media person didn't try to "get you" for being that straight forward.

    They tried, believe me- but I outlasted the bleeding hearted b%#*@ds.
    :P

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

  • abacomikeabacomike Member Posts: 12,388
    edited June 2012
    I'm sitting here at the American Airlines Center and I can't believe what I'm experiencing- pneumonia and all! Great seats, great crowd, great experience. We're killing Okla. city.

    I'll post later after the game!

    2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger

  • snakeweaselsnakeweasel Member Posts: 19,592
    I actually thought about you when we were heading to Chicago to consumate a deal.

    You were in the neighborhood and you didn't say "Hi"? :cry:

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

  • abacomikeabacomike Member Posts: 12,388
    MIAMI HEAT WINS! YEAH!

    Unbelievable! This place is pandemonium! No one is leaving the arena! Sat 5 rows off the floor in the center. What a night! Greatest experience of my life except for the birth of my kids. Wish you all could have been here with me tonight!

    2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger

  • bolivarbolivar Member Posts: 2,316
    You asked "I have a question since you had some negatives but probably more positives....if you were to do it over again would you buy a Ridgeline again? "

    That's something I actually have never thought about. I had my father's old farm truck, a very basic 1966 Ford. I drove it to work for something like 8 years and my wife got a Deville. I looked at her car, looked at my truck, and said 'I deserve a better truck', so I got a 1994 Ford Ranger STX (used) equipped with about everything you could put on a Ranger in that day. I loved that little truck. It was getting some age on in, little miles but a few things were breaking, so I sold it. My friend that sells cars (Yes, he has a license.) got me something like $4,500 when I expected $2,800. I think I went a while without a truck. Sold a car and decided to get into a truck again. I drove a Ridgeline and was impressed with it being close to a car but had 5 seats and a bed (small, but a bed). Kept watch for about 9 months at the local Honda dealer and then bought the 2006. I call it the 2nd worse looking truck, with the Chevy Avalanche the worse looking. But the looks grow on you.

    As to your question, since the truck is in very good shape, I really don't think about another one. I've been thinking about selling my Corvette and my wife's Deville (This is the third one.) and getting a Caddy CTS-V. Give it to my wife to drive. This would bring us back to 2 cars with the V being a sports car, but she says 'It's too small'. 'I want an Escalade.' I say 'That's too big, and we already have a big truck, a Honda that doesn't break.'

    I've looked once at BMW 328 and 335. Maybe I should try to find out more about Volvo's. Right now I know very little. Except that some people also say you need to think hard about owning one out of warranty (same as I feel about a Cadillac.)

    If I wanted/needed a light truck, no towing or light towing, 5 passenger, 4 wheel drive being nice, car like ride - this describes a Ridgeline. It's a Honda, so I don't expect it to break and it hasn't disappointed me.

    P.S. In my first Ridgeline comment, I used 'phase' when I meant 'faze'. When Richard checks back in after house selling and moving, here's hoping I get partial credit.
  • billy3554billy3554 Member Posts: 148
    Scary idea, typically GOP in nature, throw em in jail! Yea, that works so well! In any case, I thought this forum was about sales?
  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,593
    throw em in jail! Yea, that works so well! In any case, I thought this forum was about sales?

    Nah, just occasionally.....we have a license to run with other stuff.....it keeps us hanging out together the rest of the time. We can only buy so many cars around here at a time.

    My next post is kind of a sales question.........

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,593
    I am sure there is no exact answer, but I posted this question on the Passat leasing site, and although Car Guy is excellent at answering questions about leasing over there, I get the feeling no one is going to respont,.......there are about 3 posts a week posted over there.

    So, this is what I asked. I would estimate a lease would cost around $300 a month with tax. I will have a difficult time convincing my wife to lease a car. A few people mentioned leasing may be worth considering. I'll throw it out there for comments:


    We are snowbirds, expect to be in Florida for about 3 to 3 1/2 months a year. We will fly down for November, and would like to keep a Passat in Florida. When we drive down after Christmas, and stay until the end of Feb we would like to have two cars to use.

    Our first plan was to buy a 2013 model in August for delivery when we arrive in November.
    We are looking at a manual SE, white with beige interior, no other options.
    Based on pricing for a 2012, one dealer gave us a list price of $24765. He calculated a discount of $1033. With all the tax, dealer prep, tag and registration ($450) etc total price was $27280. With discount round off to $26000.
    Edmunds best price for this car is $23,276. Probably $400 lower than the price they gave.

    We expect to drive about 5000 miles a year total. It would be difficult to get a used or even find a 2012 in an acceptable color and with manual shift.

    Would you consider leasing the car under these circumstances? Buy back would probably be $14k or $15k.

    Thanks in advance for any help or comments.

    My note: I kind of like this idea of leasing, and I will give Richard credit for mentioning it at the time, even though he is not around to say I told you so, these days. I like the idea because we have a minimum amount actually invested in the car. If we like the car after 3 years we could buy it then for a good price and it will have low miles. Or our needs may change and we can just hand it in and lease another car.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • imidazol97imidazol97 Member Posts: 27,676
    > His buddy said "you can't do that" To which I replied I'm not your teacher

    His buddy is right. You and the teacher are responsible for his location and safety. I asked my wife (retired after 30.5 years of public school education) and you would have been responsible were he to have been hurt or damaged in any way. So the next time someone thinks that the schools should just shape up, remember there are laws and requirements on the teachers in the public schools. Sometimes those aren't followed well in the community/charter schools. But the stuff occasionally hits the fan if someone doesn't follow the laws.

    I've taught some night school and community college classes and that's interesting as well. But they were there more of their own choice, so they were a little more motivated to succeed.

    2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,

This discussion has been closed.