Just curious. How much influence do you have on your wife's car purchase and preferences? I think that most of the guys here do have some. My wife knows what she likes and doesn't like, but i do guide her a bit at times. As for the SRX, her last purchase, there was no moving her in another direction. She really wanted that car over my objection based on our previous experience with a Cadillac. Still, it has worked out beautifully. I love the SRX myself.
. Use them for short runs around your neighborhood---grocery store, drug store, etc. If you have to travel further than 3 or 4 miles, call a taxi.
Hmmm, not a bad idea. Maybe one day, when i can't drive any more!
It does seem silly to have a new car that will get used for 3 or 4 months of the year. Renting might come out slightly better, but who really knows without trying it. I think we have to bite the bullet, buy a car, hope it all works out. Life has risks....as you know....you just make decisions and hope for the best.
I have made some foolish decisions in the past, but somehow, it all worked out.
btw, a really good book for you to read is Malcom Gladwells "Outliers". It explains why successful people are successful. The one about schools was interesting. About 80% of the really successful students are born in the first half of the year, and a huge percentage are born in the first 3 months of the year.
Can you guess why?
A kid born in Jan to March is almost a year older than kids born later, and at that age it makes a huge difference. These kids learn easier and better, and so they are guided into special learning programs and special classes. The poor kids born later are ignored as far as learning ability is concerned.
He also explains why certain circumstances made it possible for Bill Gates to become so successful. He had the ability, but, there were other factors that made it possible for him to become so knowledgeable about computers.
The book gives you a different perspective on how people become successful. Hard work, smarts, and a few other intangible factors, which he tries to explain.
The publisher says: he makes the democratic assertion that superstars don't arise out of nowhere, propelled by genius and talent: "they are invariably the beneficiaries of hidden advantages and extraordinary opportunities and cultural legacies that allow them to learn and work hard and make sense of the world in ways others cannot." Examining the lives of outliers from Mozart to Bill Gates, he builds a convincing case for how successful people rise on a tide of advantages, "some deserved, some not, some earned, some just plain lucky."
You are so right. I leased one vehicle, a Tahoe. After three years, I turned in the keys and had nothing. I would have bought it after the lease period, but the dealer wanted too much for it. I then had to go to savings, pull out money for a down payment on a new car, and proceed to make payments. As you say, it's nice to have a car paid off and ride around with no payments.
Oh geez, yes, let me clarify.........." That was a classic example of why the use of correct punctuation is so important.
But, I started that paragraph saying "I was quoting a newspaper article".
It wasn't me writing it.
It does remind me of the time I was walking around downtown with a male friend. We saw a new condo being built so we decided to take a look at the sample rooms. The receptionist was very pretty, and my friend said to her, "Mmmmmm, me and my boyfriend are looking for a fabulous place like this place to live".
"...Mrs. j damn near had a fit when the cards were 'misplaced'."
Poor Mrs. J.---THREE boys in her household to care for and raise. I'm sure that she has had some interesting experiences. At least she was in good hands if something happened to her car.
Here is a thought instead of the bicycles get scooters.
That just gave me an even better thought. Golf carts!
If we lived up the road 5 minutes away it is like golf cart city...in fact it is Sun City, but golf carts are the norm there. Won't even need a license for that probably. All the stores have special parking spots for golf carts only.
Scooters are an ok idea too. I'll say though, when driving in Florida, I prefer to have a little more metal around me, and a few airbags!
"I really hate the idea of trading a car." "There are just too many ways to jumble the numbers."
Since I always trade in a car when I do a purchase, I can understand what you are saying. I try to keep the two transactions (trade and purchase) as separate as possible. With my research information in hand, I first try to have a conversation regarding the trade. Looking at two or three options on the dealer's lot, I don't let him know exactly which car I have in mind for the purchase. That way, he may or may not be able to jumble the numbers as easily. My strategy could be all wet, but that's how I approach the trade issue.
Once we have that discussion, which can take 20 to 30 minutes, I begin talking about the two or three cars that are possible options. I'll try out those vehicles and then land on the one that I had in mind at the beginning. Back in the office, we begin discussions on the one that interests me the most. I will also produce my research on this particular model and mention incentives or CPO status if either applies. I usually purchase a one year old model, a dealer demo if possible. I have been known to purchase brand new, but not too often. Factors such as incentives on a new model or mileage and owner of a CPO all play a part. Naturally, I do a lot of "hemming and hawing" which forces the salesman to finally bring in the sales manager or the dealer boss himself. I have found that the next level of authority can usually make some price adjustments which the salesman himself can't do.
Once we've reached a playing field that is comfortable to both of us, I conclude by seeking a few extras if possible---free car washes when serviced, three or four free oil changes in the beginning, new plastic mat covers, an extra keyless remote ($200 value), etc. I never get all of these things, but it never hurts to ask. They can only say "no". I usually get one or two things added for free.
This type of process can take two to five hours to complete. It's not for everyone. It's what I do based on a collection of things that I have learned here from various posters over the years. Jipster, Jmonroe, Imidazol, Graphicguy, our beloved Victor, Isell, and others had such good advice on car purchasing. I tried to listen and learn. I then formulated my approach from these guys. On my last four or five cars, I've done well with my technique. If I didn't, then I'm just dumb and happy. As Driver and Snake have pointed out many times, it is what it is. If you are happy with your deal and you like the car, then who is to say that you didn't do well?
Mike, I'm glad to hear that the pneumonia is improving. I am concerned about the welt on your abdomen. If it is not showing signs of dissipating, it is still there for a reason. Since your derm has "no definitive diagnosis", he should have referred you to another derm for a second opinion. My BIL is a derm, one of three in the U.S. with over 55 years of experience. I have known him since 1965 and he NEVER tells a patient that there is no definitive diagnosis. He calls in another derm or refers the patient to another derm for a second opinion. He also follows up on that second opinion. If need be, he'll send the patient to John Hopkins, Emory, or some well known medical clinic. He always believes that there is an answer, which good research can produce. He's old school---loves his patients.
I shouldn't get in your business, but I don't want you to suffer needlessly if help is available. Please try to get a second opinion. Make sure that the derm is board certified in Florida. Some have not sat for the test, but can practice based on pending tests. There is usually a reason if those tests are still pending. Keep us posted.
Though I've never been a BMW fan (not engine, just style), I do love the red both in and out. It so improves the overall design to me. I would actually consider that purchase myself. Driver would faint if I ever bought a BMW.
Thanks for your concerns - an no, you are not getting in my business!!!
I expect to see another dermatologist if this welt doesn't completely dissipate by mid-July. Both are Board Certified. The welt is dissipating, but very, very slowly. I am supposed to take another chest X-ray in a week or so to make sure the pneumonia is gone, or almost gone.
The Dermatologist told me that if the welt should get larger again (it expanded in size a couple of weeks ago, but that expansion went away) or appear on another area of my body, he wants me in immediately for another biopsy. He said to not even make a call for an appointment, but come in right away - said if he can't do it, another one of his colleagues will do the biopsy.
Very frustrating to no have a diagnosis regarding an ailment. He knows what it is called (bollis) which is another name for a dermatological reaction to either an insect bite or some other attack against my immune system. They tested me for Hep A and B (they already know I contracted C in 1980 from a blood transfusion) as well as HIV, but all tests have been negative so far - thank the LORD!
My next question is how often would you need a car when you are in Florida?
If not very often you could check into a ride/car sharing program like Zip cars if it is available in your area. IIRC it's a low yearly fee and a low daily or even hourly fee when you use the car and it covers maintenance, insurance and gas.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
For sure - but I don't think they are listing the precise mileage on each car, just the rounded mileage. I would never buy a car with 140,000 miles on it.
That is my assessment of why there are so many cars listed at 140,000. They probably have 140,992 or something like that. When I would list the mileage on a car in the papers for sale at my dealership, I always rounded down to the closest 1000 miles. That is my guess.
Rounding would be done by following the rules for rounding for that particular application, typically at 500 miles and up the value is increased to the next thousands place. What it sounds like you did was to truncate the value to the thousands place.
"...I would never buy a car with 140,000 miles on it..."
Nor would I. It was just a curious pattern I noticed. I ran the same search on Tampa CL and found twice as many with that milage so I guess it's not anything unusual.
My preference would be brand new sports cars but I know I'll never have the money for that. I content myself with looking for low mile old cars (10-20 years old) who's style intrigues me and which carry a low price because they're not considered "hot" or collectable. Most of the cars I look at would make car enthusiasts laugh which is fine by me because I can get them cheaper.
I guess that makes me both paranoid and nutty. :sick:
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
I was texting a friend late yesterday while my wife was driving us home from Wilmington. It dawned on me that i could never drive and text at the same time. I have to hold my smart phone in one hand and use the keyboard with my other hand. How in the world would I manage to also steer a car? In addition, I have to concentrate on the keyboard---hitting the correct letters, using punctuation, etc. I don't know how the younger generation does it while driving. I don't even talk on the smart phone if I'm driving. If I get a call, I pull over and stop the car. Being visually impaired, I have to give my full attention to driving. It's not fair to others if I don't.
"Backing up has caused lots of injuries, accidents, and deaths."
We had never had the backup camera feature until we bought the SRX. It is a really nice and important feature. I particularly like it at shopping centers. If you miss seeing a vehicle coming down your lane, the rear camera warns you. It's also good for getting in and out of tight spots where another car is parked very close behind you. Remember a couple of years ago when my wife backed into the light pole? This feature would have prevented that from happening.
Glad you have enjoyed our town. We lived here for 35 years. We moved back because it had been our home and we missed it. We're only 90 minutes from Raleigh and the same from the beach going in the other direction.
Yeah, I remember that from one dealer long ago who thought I was baby seal: offered minimum value for my trade in and MSRP for his new vehicle. Acted like I should just pay the difference. I laughed all the way out of the showroom. Never bother to shop that store again.
That reminds me of one of my college professors, Dr. Goodenough, an extremely cruel woman. All of her tests were multiple choice and two of the choices were "all of the above", and "none of the above". The questions always asked for the "best" answer, so a couple of the answers could be right, but she wanted the best answer.
Additionally, if you got the question right you received 5 points. If you left it blank she deducted 5 points. If you made a stab and got it wrong she deducted 10 points. I still have nightmares.
ride/car sharing program like Zip cars if it is available in your area.
Those programs are great for the right people. We are in a fairly small community that doesn't have a real downtown, so that just wouldn't suit us.
Keep in mind, if we fly down for 4 weeks or less we will need a car anyway. If we go longer, the plan now is 4 weeks in November, and 2 Months plus from Christmas to the end of February....then we need a 2nd car so I can go where I want to go and my wife can do what she wants to do.
We are there to enjoy ourselves so we want to have all the conveniences, and not feel we are on a tight budget.
When I was in the business (which all of you know I hated because of all the deception and lies), I was most amazed by the array of gimmicks salespeople and finance people woul employ to close a deal. The "car dealer math" the employed was truly amazing. One of the major "math" gimmicks was to say to the customer, "...what if I could get your payments down to $$$? Would you buy the car NOW!". Of course, the car payments were lower, but the term went from 60 months to 72 months, or YHE lease was for 48 months, not 36 months, and instead of 15,000 miles a year, it was 12,000 a year.
Yes, they all use dealer math to play on the emotions of a motivated buyer. Truly disgusting. That's why it is so important to read every paragraph, calculate every payment, and try not yo be tricked into signing anything on your first visit to a car dealership. Fast-talking sales personnel will do anything and everything to get you to buy the car NOW, not tomorrow!
>"...what if I could get your payments down to $$$? Would you buy the car NOW!". Of course, the car payments were lower, but the term went from 60 months to 72 months,
Sounds like a parallel to the housing market the last decade or so where anyone was supposed to qualify for a mortgage, ability to pay or no ability to pay. There's a matter of responsibility for the buyer to know what they are getting and what is their ability to afford that much in a car. But there seems to have been a sense of entitlement: "We deserve a car that is XXX and it doesn't matter whether we can afford it or not."
Maybe I'm a little hard on the part of the salesmen that I stereotype as the most like that picture. The buyers need some responsibility, but I don't think the US environment is increasing that sense of responsibility these days. The salesmen are trying to make money for themselves.
The salesmen are tring to make money for themselves
Of course not all salespeople or dealerships are as bad as I make them out to be, but a great majority of then are that bad.
During the early to mid 2000's, I had several of my salespeople go into the mortgage sales business. They were making fortunes getting anyone and everybody approved for mortgages these salespeople knew the could not afford. It was these brokers and the banks that caused this financial mess along with our own government which pressured the mortgage bankers and brokers to get as many people as possible a mortgage on the home of their dreams. And then there were those homeowners who took out 2nd and 3rd mortgages on their homes to buy cars, boats, airplanes and vacations they could not afford. Then, the "house of cards" fell and now we are suffering because of it!
That is spooky...all these cars with 140k miles. This Civic for $3000 and with 140k miles on it didn't look like it would last another 10k.
The ad says "1993 Black Honda Civic. Good on gas, automatic, Hondas run forever. 140,000 miles $2995 "
(notice the quotation marks, it isn't me selling this little gem!)
What I figure is, some guy puts an ad in the paper, "I will pay you up to $1000 for your car, must have less than 140,000 miles on it".
It must mean something. Maybe they come from a lot that leases cars. The new cars come back with 15000 miles per year for 3 years for a total of 45000 miles. Then they lease the car for 5 years at 20000 miles a year for a total of 145,000 miles. They get returned at 140000 miles. It has to be something like that.
I'd love to know the answer, but it has to be something like that!
Comments
That was a classic example of why the use of correct punctuation is so important.
Richard
No problem...there are probably more reasons I have found out about since then.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Richard
Hmmm, not a bad idea. Maybe one day, when i can't drive any more!
It does seem silly to have a new car that will get used for 3 or 4 months of the year. Renting might come out slightly better, but who really knows without trying it. I think we have to bite the bullet, buy a car, hope it all works out. Life has risks....as you know....you just make decisions and hope for the best.
I have made some foolish decisions in the past, but somehow, it all worked out.
btw, a really good book for you to read is Malcom Gladwells "Outliers".
It explains why successful people are successful. The one about schools was interesting. About 80% of the really successful students are born in the first half of the year, and a huge percentage are born in the first 3 months of the year.
Can you guess why?
A kid born in Jan to March is almost a year older than kids born later, and at that age it makes a huge difference. These kids learn easier and better, and so they are guided into special learning programs and special classes. The poor kids born later are ignored as far as learning ability is concerned.
He also explains why certain circumstances made it possible for Bill Gates to become so successful. He had the ability, but, there were other factors that made it possible for him to become so knowledgeable about computers.
The book gives you a different perspective on how people become successful. Hard work, smarts, and a few other intangible factors, which he tries to explain.
The publisher says:
he makes the democratic assertion that superstars don't arise out of nowhere, propelled by genius and talent: "they are invariably the beneficiaries of hidden advantages and extraordinary opportunities and cultural legacies that allow them to learn and work hard and make sense of the world in ways others cannot." Examining the lives of outliers from Mozart to Bill Gates, he builds a convincing case for how successful people rise on a tide of advantages, "some deserved, some not, some earned, some just plain lucky."
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
You are so right. I leased one vehicle, a Tahoe. After three years, I turned in the keys and had nothing. I would have bought it after the lease period, but the dealer wanted too much for it. I then had to go to savings, pull out money for a down payment on a new car, and proceed to make payments. As you say, it's nice to have a car paid off and ride around with no payments.
Richard
That was a classic example of why the use of correct punctuation is so important.
But, I started that paragraph saying "I was quoting a newspaper article".
It wasn't me writing it.
It does remind me of the time I was walking around downtown with a male friend. We saw a new condo being built so we decided to take a look at the sample rooms. The receptionist was very pretty, and my friend said to her, "Mmmmmm, me and my boyfriend are looking for a fabulous place like this place to live".
Embarassing or what!
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Poor Mrs. J.---THREE boys in her household to care for and raise.
Richard
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
That just gave me an even better thought. Golf carts!
If we lived up the road 5 minutes away it is like golf cart city...in fact it is Sun City, but golf carts are the norm there. Won't even need a license for that probably. All the stores have special parking spots for golf carts only.
Scooters are an ok idea too. I'll say though, when driving in Florida, I prefer to have a little more metal around me, and a few airbags!
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Since I always trade in a car when I do a purchase, I can understand what you are saying. I try to keep the two transactions (trade and purchase) as separate as possible. With my research information in hand, I first try to have a conversation regarding the trade. Looking at two or three options on the dealer's lot, I don't let him know exactly which car I have in mind for the purchase. That way, he may or may not be able to jumble the numbers as easily. My strategy could be all wet, but that's how I approach the trade issue.
Once we have that discussion, which can take 20 to 30 minutes, I begin talking about the two or three cars that are possible options. I'll try out those vehicles and then land on the one that I had in mind at the beginning. Back in the office, we begin discussions on the one that interests me the most. I will also produce my research on this particular model and mention incentives or CPO status if either applies. I usually purchase a one year old model, a dealer demo if possible. I have been known to purchase brand new, but not too often. Factors such as incentives on a new model or mileage and owner of a CPO all play a part. Naturally, I do a lot of "hemming and hawing" which forces the salesman to finally bring in the sales manager or the dealer boss himself. I have found that the next level of authority can usually make some price adjustments which the salesman himself can't do.
Once we've reached a playing field that is comfortable to both of us, I conclude by seeking a few extras if possible---free car washes when serviced, three or four free oil changes in the beginning, new plastic mat covers, an extra keyless remote ($200 value), etc. I never get all of these things, but it never hurts to ask. They can only say "no". I usually get one or two things added for free.
This type of process can take two to five hours to complete. It's not for everyone. It's what I do based on a collection of things that I have learned here from various posters over the years. Jipster, Jmonroe, Imidazol, Graphicguy, our beloved Victor, Isell, and others had such good advice on car purchasing. I tried to listen and learn. I then formulated my approach from these guys. On my last four or five cars, I've done well with my technique. If I didn't, then I'm just dumb and happy. As Driver and Snake have pointed out many times, it is what it is. If you are happy with your deal and you like the car, then who is to say that you didn't do well?
Richard
Mike, I'm glad to hear that the pneumonia is improving. I am concerned about the welt on your abdomen. If it is not showing signs of dissipating, it is still there for a reason. Since your derm has "no definitive diagnosis", he should have referred you to another derm for a second opinion. My BIL is a derm, one of three in the U.S. with over 55 years of experience. I have known him since 1965 and he NEVER tells a patient that there is no definitive diagnosis. He calls in another derm or refers the patient to another derm for a second opinion. He also follows up on that second opinion. If need be, he'll send the patient to John Hopkins, Emory, or some well known medical clinic. He always believes that there is an answer, which good research can produce. He's old school---loves his patients.
I shouldn't get in your business, but I don't want you to suffer needlessly if help is available. Please try to get a second opinion. Make sure that the derm is board certified in Florida. Some have not sat for the test, but can practice based on pending tests. There is usually a reason if those tests are still pending. Keep us posted.
Richard
Richard
I'm on June 29th---nearly finished! Man---missing two weeks of posts is a kliller.
Richard
Richard
June 29...not bad! There will be an examination when you get caught up!
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Richard
I fainted when I got up to the part about you would "consider buying a bmw" :surprise:
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Thanks for your concerns - an no, you are not getting in my business!!!
I expect to see another dermatologist if this welt doesn't completely dissipate by mid-July. Both are Board Certified. The welt is dissipating, but very, very slowly. I am supposed to take another chest X-ray in a week or so to make sure the pneumonia is gone, or almost gone.
The Dermatologist told me that if the welt should get larger again (it expanded in size a couple of weeks ago, but that expansion went away) or appear on another area of my body, he wants me in immediately for another biopsy. He said to not even make a call for an appointment, but come in right away - said if he can't do it, another one of his colleagues will do the biopsy.
Very frustrating to no have a diagnosis regarding an ailment. He knows what it is called (bollis) which is another name for a dermatological reaction to either an insect bite or some other attack against my immune system. They tested me for Hep A and B (they already know I contracted C in 1980 from a blood transfusion) as well as HIV, but all tests have been negative so far - thank the LORD!
Thanks again for your concerns, Richard!
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
Should I be suspicious?
http://albany.craigslist.org/search/cto?query=140%2C000&srchType=A&minAsk=&maxAs- k=
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
If not very often you could check into a ride/car sharing program like Zip cars if it is available in your area. IIRC it's a low yearly fee and a low daily or even hourly fee when you use the car and it covers maintenance, insurance and gas.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
However one poster used a period instead of a comma so it really shows as 140 miles.
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
For sure - but I don't think they are listing the precise mileage on each car, just the rounded mileage. I would never buy a car with 140,000 miles on it.
That is my assessment of why there are so many cars listed at 140,000. They probably have 140,992 or something like that. When I would list the mileage on a car in the papers for sale at my dealership, I always rounded down to the closest 1000 miles. That is my guess.
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
Not in the car, business. All the dealers in my area rounded down to the closest thousand miles.
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
more likely, based on the load of bombers your listed, it is about the point where cars tend to wear out and people want to dump them!
gotta figure if that many people (and these aren't dealers) were going to roll back, it would be to less than 140K!
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
Man up and buy a scooter; BMW even makes a couple these days:
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
2013 LX 570 2016 LS 460
Nor would I. It was just a curious pattern I noticed. I ran the same search on Tampa CL and found twice as many with that milage so I guess it's not anything unusual.
My preference would be brand new sports cars but I know I'll never have the money for that. I content myself with looking for low mile old cars (10-20 years old) who's style intrigues me and which carry a low price because they're not considered "hot" or collectable. Most of the cars I look at would make car enthusiasts laugh which is fine by me because I can get them cheaper.
I guess that makes me both paranoid and nutty. :sick:
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
that, or just working out how to share a car (ride share, car pool, taxi in a pinch, etc.)
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
I would have never thought I would hear someone say that (or post that).
Oh well I'll take that as a sign that society is doomed.
Edited to add:
When I think of BMW scooters this monstrosity comes to mind
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
Richard
We had never had the backup camera feature until we bought the SRX. It is a really nice and important feature. I particularly like it at shopping centers. If you miss seeing a vehicle coming down your lane, the rear camera warns you. It's also good for getting in and out of tight spots where another car is parked very close behind you. Remember a couple of years ago when my wife backed into the light pole? This feature would have prevented that from happening.
Richard
Richard
Richard
That was the second question (theme of the posts)! The first question is:
*How many times has the word THE been used in the last 4,123 posts?
And you thought the test would be an "easy A"!
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
roundeddropped down to the closest thousand miles.And they
roundedcharged prices UP to the next higher thousand $Dollar$!!!2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
I have a friend at work whose daughter can rack up over 10,000 texts a month. I thought I did a lot at around 2500 or so.
2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic
That's just basic Car Dealer Math. :P
2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic
Should I have used 'phase' or 'faze'?
Yeah, I remember that from one dealer long ago who thought I was baby seal: offered minimum value for my trade in and MSRP for his new vehicle. Acted like I should just pay the difference. I laughed all the way out of the showroom. Never bother to shop that store again.
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
Additionally, if you got the question right you received 5 points. If you left it blank she deducted 5 points. If you made a stab and got it wrong she deducted 10 points. I still have nightmares.
2013 LX 570 2016 LS 460
You get a gold star!
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Those programs are great for the right people. We are in a fairly small community that doesn't have a real downtown, so that just wouldn't suit us.
Keep in mind, if we fly down for 4 weeks or less we will need a car anyway.
If we go longer, the plan now is 4 weeks in November, and 2 Months plus from Christmas to the end of February....then we need a 2nd car so I can go where I want to go and my wife can do what she wants to do.
We are there to enjoy ourselves so we want to have all the conveniences, and not feel we are on a tight budget.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Ouch! I'd have nightmares if I had a teacher like that!
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
When I was in the business (which all of you know I hated because of all the deception and lies), I was most amazed by the array of gimmicks salespeople and finance people woul employ to close a deal. The "car dealer math" the employed was truly amazing. One of the major "math" gimmicks was to say to the customer, "...what if I could get your payments down to $$$? Would you buy the car NOW!". Of course, the car payments were lower, but the term went from 60 months to 72 months, or YHE lease was for 48 months, not 36 months, and instead of 15,000 miles a year, it was 12,000 a year.
Yes, they all use dealer math to play on the emotions of a motivated buyer. Truly disgusting. That's why it is so important to read every paragraph, calculate every payment, and try not yo be tricked into signing anything on your first visit to a car dealership. Fast-talking sales personnel will do anything and everything to get you to buy the car NOW, not tomorrow!
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
Sounds like a parallel to the housing market the last decade or so where anyone was supposed to qualify for a mortgage, ability to pay or no ability to pay. There's a matter of responsibility for the buyer to know what they are getting and what is their ability to afford that much in a car. But there seems to have been a sense of entitlement: "We deserve a car that is XXX and it doesn't matter whether we can afford it or not."
Maybe I'm a little hard on the part of the salesmen that I stereotype as the most like that picture. The buyers need some responsibility, but I don't think the US environment is increasing that sense of responsibility these days. The salesmen are trying to make money for themselves.
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
Of course not all salespeople or dealerships are as bad as I make them out to be, but a great majority of then are that bad.
During the early to mid 2000's, I had several of my salespeople go into the mortgage sales business. They were making fortunes getting anyone and everybody approved for mortgages these salespeople knew the could not afford. It was these brokers and the banks that caused this financial mess along with our own government which pressured the mortgage bankers and brokers to get as many people as possible a mortgage on the home of their dreams. And then there were those homeowners who took out 2nd and 3rd mortgages on their homes to buy cars, boats, airplanes and vacations they could not afford. Then, the "house of cards" fell and now we are suffering because of it!
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
That is spooky...all these cars with 140k miles. This Civic for $3000 and with 140k miles on it didn't look like it would last another 10k.
The ad says "1993 Black Honda Civic. Good on gas, automatic, Hondas run forever.
140,000 miles
$2995 "
(notice the quotation marks, it isn't me selling this little gem!)
What I figure is, some guy puts an ad in the paper, "I will pay you up to $1000 for your car, must have less than 140,000 miles on it".
It must mean something. Maybe they come from a lot that leases cars. The new cars come back with 15000 miles per year for 3 years for a total of 45000 miles. Then they lease the car for 5 years at 20000 miles a year for a total of 145,000 miles. They get returned at 140000 miles. It has to be something like that.
I'd love to know the answer, but it has to be something like that!
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
You know what else is wierd. They have that Civic above advertised on June 20th, but the same car is advertised for a different price on June 30th.
I'd be very, very, very suspicious.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250