Stories from the Sales Frontlines

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  • [Deleted User][Deleted User] Posts: 0
    edited September 2012
    Techron is an additive in Chevron gasoline, but is Techron available as a separate additive? What about STP gas treatment or Gumout gas treatment? Worth the cost or not?

    Techron can be purchased separately in bottles like STP and others. Chevron Techron was really the fuel detergent pioneer (added standard) and still my favorite, but all Tier 1 fuels have decent additive packages these days. Chevron had the market cornered at one point, and it's all I used for quite some time, but these days I trust a number of different brands. As for STP, I have no experience with them and can't say one way or the other.

    As roadburner mentioned, detergents won't help the valves on DI engines since the intake valve top sides never contact the fuel (unlike traditional injection). Sea Foam has had an interesting application for some time that could help with carbon build up on the intake valves, but I'm not convinced it's safe for sensors. They recommend drawing in fluid through the air intake, which saturates the air with Sea Foam detergent and would clean the valves. That said, I think I'd let a few (thousand) people experiment with their expensive brand-specific engines first before I jumped on the band wagon.
  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    It may or may not be similar to the United States.

    You are sharp to notice that. My guess is the list would be very similar for the U.S.A. The main difference in Canada is that we tend to buy more cheaper cars....the number one car here most years is a Civic, but that shouldn't affect the longevity of vehicles.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    I don't know what brand of oil Lexus recommends since I won't be due for an oil change until March or April of next year, but it is full synthetic

    One suggestion, take it or leave it (at your peril ha ha).

    Like I said, my oil message media indicator came on at 12150 miles. It said to obtain oil immediately, and the graph showed the oil was right on minimum.

    I checked the manual, and it said use BMW super 5W 40 synthetic oil. So, I bought the oil at the BMW dealer and I keep one container in the trunk.

    I am going to do the same for the Audi. I don't want to be in the middle of nowhere in the middle of the night during a hurricane when the oil light comes on, and I have to settle for a bottle of WallyMart oil.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    I'll just stay home and have the salesperson call me if they find one they like.

    Let them write the post about the sales story.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • The direct injection discussion got my curiosity up on what manufacturers are doing about carbon fouling, and a quick Google search found this interesting article:

    DI Article

    Looks like design improvements may eliminate buildup issues. Lets hope.
  • abacomikeabacomike Member Posts: 12,388
    As roadrunner mentioned detergents won't help the valves…

    Then it would appear that what I am currently doing is just about all I can do. It's the carbon build up that worries me - which is why I bring the rpm's over 4000 at least once a week and maintain 4000-4500 rpm for 20-30 seconds to burn the carbon deposits.

    I probably will get some Techron, as you suggested. I have not had the car on an extended trip since I bought it on April 29th. I drive 20-50 miles a day, but I really should take it out on the Turnpike for 3-4 hours at 70-75 mph which would also help to break in the engine better. I only have about 3600 miles on the car and most of my driving is less than 30 minutes one way.

    Thanks explorer, roadrunner, driver and tyguy. Appreciate you input!

    2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger

  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,480
    I looked at the top tier list, and was surprised at how many big names were not on it. And how few were brands in my area (so of course, there were a bunch I never heard of!)

    I have been using Sunoco in my volvo, and just filled up the new Acura with Gulf, and neither are on the list.

    there are shell's around, but they tend to be really high in my area. Exxon is not quite as bad, and I don't think there are many mobils here anymore.

    the cheaper places that are convenient here are a Citgo and Valero (a couple of those).

    so, if I don't have an exxon or shell available, will probably just stick with gulf or sunoco, and sometimes Citgo (they do put premium on sale a couple days a week!)

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

  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 18,372
    There are certain segments right now that I'd consider buying American whereas 5 years ago I'd scoff at the idea.

    Agreed. I'd buy a Boss 302 or another Wrangler(although my 1999 Sahara is such a nice drive I'm in no hurry to replace it- in fact, my son will probably inherit the Jeep as well as my 1995 ti).
    That said, I really would like a light tossable coupe for my next track toy. The Cayman S has always been on the short list, but I'll seriously consider a BRZ or FR-S if Subaru can find another 100 bhp in the boxer four. I really like the idea of having another car under 170 inches long and weighs under 2,800 lbs, as both the 128i and Cayman S weigh a relatively porky 3200 lbs.

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

  • roadburnerroadburner Member Posts: 18,372
    I looked at the top tier list, and was surprised at how many big names were not on it. And how few were brands in my area (so of course, there were a bunch I never heard of!)

    I run BP or Marathon if Shell isn't available.

    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
    I looked at their top tier list…

    The most common brands down here in South Florida are Shell, Hess, BP, Chevron, Valero, Chevron and Mobil. We have lots of Citgo's, but I refuse to buy their gas because it comes from Venezuela - Chavez gas I
    if you know what I mean!

    We don't have Gulf and Sunoco's are few and far between. Costco is the cheapest (most of the time, but not always), but who knows where that gasoline comes from.

    Like I said, I burn mostly Shell whenever I can. Even if it is 8 cents a gallon more than Hess or Mobil, but if it is over that, I put Hess in.

    The article about DI engines was very interesting and it seems like most if the newer engines have less problems with carbon build-up on the intake valves. Only time will tell!

    2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger

  • billjhonsonbilljhonson Member Posts: 1
    The article about DI engines was very interesting......

    Legal firm transcription service
  • mako1amako1a Member Posts: 1,855
    I run BP since they bought out Amoco and I used to go for Exxon or Amoco.

    Who remembers pulling into Sunoco and spinning the selector from 190 to 260?

    Or all the free stuff stations used to give away. Tiger tails, Horseshoes, cases of soda.

    2013 Mustang GT, 2001 GMC Yukon Denali

  • abacomikeabacomike Member Posts: 12,388
    Who remembers...

    mako, I am definitely old enough to remember those Sunoco pumps (but not so old I forgot!!!)

    I used to put 220 in my cars, but only 190 if I was renting a car on vacation. Sunoco used to be the biggest oil company down here in South Florida years and years ago when I'd fly down on a Lockheed Electra or a DC 8B from New York to visit my grandparents who had a beautiful estate he in Coral Gables - when Miami was the epitome of wealth and luxury back in YHE 1950's and 1960's. Now, I wouldn't drive into Miami for any reason.

    But getting back to Sunoco Custom Blended gasolines when the customer would select the grade with the turn of the lever and point it to 190-260. I was always suspicious that when I selected 220 or 230, I was actually getting 190.

    Ah, YHE good old days when things were less complicated and subdued and an income of $10,000 a year would keep you in Cadillacs and twice yearly vacations and you could buy a 4 bedroom home for $16,000.

    "...and gee our old La Salle ran great! Those were the days!"

    2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger

  • mako1amako1a Member Posts: 1,855
    I'd think twice about Miami as well. My last trip there I stayed in Coral Gables, but went out to eat in Miami. Nice restaurant and all, but when I came out I saw my car with the back seat removed and left on the ground. I went back in and asked the cashier why. He asked if it was a rental. I replied yes. He said the crooks can tell a rental car and check them for drugs by removing the seat.

    2013 Mustang GT, 2001 GMC Yukon Denali

  • 28firefighter28firefighter Member Posts: 9,847
    edited September 2012
    Gogi -

    I was diagnosed with Crohn's disease 7 years ago when I was 18. They check me frequently to monitor any signs of flare (if any) and confirm remission of the disease, as well as check for signs of colon cancer since I'm at a much higher risk.

    My doc uses the Miralax/Dulcolax prep which is much easier to tolerate and does not taste bad.

    And yes, Propofyl is the same drug MJ overdosed on. However the dosage you get for this procedure is literally hundredths of the dosage his personal physician used.

    To keep this car related, after the propofyl nap, you aren't allowed to drive for 24 hours. It was the first and last time my fiancee drove my C30 - she didn't like it.
    2025 Jetta GLI Autobahn, 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xE
  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    Legal firm transcription service

    Is this real or is this just an ad?

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    I run BP since they bought out Amoco and I used to go for Exxon or Amoco.

    When in Florida and on the I-75 I like Race Track when I can find one.

    I like to feel like I am driving a racing car, and also their stores have the most junk.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    the first and last time my fiancee drove my C30 - she didn't like it.

    What were the things she didn't like about the C30?

    Seems you have overcome the worst symptoms of the Crohn's disease, and you are accomplishing so much. Congratulations, it's really nice to see young people who are positive and can add something, to our world.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • nyccarguynyccarguy Member Posts: 17,531
    Low curb weight is another thing that's pushing me towards cars like the Fit, Focus, & 3.

    Fit Sport - 2,617 lbs
    3 SkyActiv 5 door - 2,872 lbs
    Focus 5 door - 2,948 lbs

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

  • nyccarguynyccarguy Member Posts: 17,531
    Last weekend I washed the Prelude. It came out great as usual. I even covered it. Yesterday morning, I hop in & it won't turn over. No big deal. I hopped into my BMW and drove to work.

    Last night after I put the boys to bed, I'm watching the Yankees vs. Orioles game (my man #13 now has an 11 game hitting streak after belting a Home Run) & say to myself: let me go and jump the prelude.

    Pull the Pilot out of the garage. Pop the hoods. Positive to Positive. Negative to Ground. Fire up the Pilot. Turn the Prelude's key & the H22A fires to life immediately. I let the car idle for about 15 minutes, drove it around the block, shut it off, turned the key, & it fired back up right away.

    Last time I had the battery tested, it was strong. It's a Die Hard.

    I've got an alternator problem? Right?

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

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    edited September 2012
    This offered a pretty good review at msn, although covered all the points we have learned here.

    10 Things Not to Say When Buying a Car


    Some other interesting things to look at if you have some time;
    10 Used Cars to Avoid.
    7 Most Boring Cars on the Road.
    Cars We Wouldn’t Be Caught Dead In

    Cars We Wouldn’t Be Caught Dead In

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • kyfdxkyfdx Moderator Posts: 267,211
    I would have never guessed that the Mazda3 and the Focus hatch were under 3K lbs.. Impressive..

    Edmunds Price Checker
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    Did you get a good deal? Be sure to come back and share!

    Edmunds Moderator

  • mako1amako1a Member Posts: 1,855
    The proxy server received an invalid response from an upstream server.
    The proxy server could not handle the request

    2013 Mustang GT, 2001 GMC Yukon Denali

  • bwiabwia Member Posts: 2,913
    edited September 2012
    The ultimate example of durability is the pre-1960s American cars that are still on the road in Havana Cuba. These are real classics and would fetch big dollars on the American market.

    When it comes to style these classics put to shame some of the expensive iron on the road today. That said, I like everything about them but the hood ornaments are standouts and are so cool. It's a shame modern cars today abandoned hood ornaments.

    Enjoy the video and comment http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IDhiL4tjJaA

    By the way, the roads in Cuba are nice much better than I expected.
  • sterlingdogsterlingdog Member Posts: 6,984
    edited September 2012
    "But, how long did it take for them to win you back in order for you to buy another GM product?"

    You really are correct. It had been ten years since the last Cadillac fiasco at our house. My wife took me screaming and kicking to see our current SRX. I caved in because it was her turn to select an automobile. After two years, we have been fortunate not to face any issues. I guess we hit upon an individually well built car. Like you, I still hear horror stories from Cadillac owners. My neighbor down the street says that his CTS now just sits in the driveway and he stares at it from his den window. He has given up on dealer resolutions, repairs, and broken promises. It is a shame. He and his wife drive either their Lincoln or their little MB convertible.

    Richard
  • sterlingdogsterlingdog Member Posts: 6,984
    "You can take a GM or Chrysler to a Bubba Mechanic and you will be fine. Don't risk taking a European car there though."

    It actually depends on which Bubba you trust.

    Richard
  • sterlingdogsterlingdog Member Posts: 6,984
    "Using a regular turkey baster could void your warranty."

    LMAO!!! That's one of the best posts ever!

    Richard
  • sterlingdogsterlingdog Member Posts: 6,984
    Best wishes with the colonoscopy. The preparation for the test is the nightmare from hell! Hope you stocked up on toilet paper. Also, your TV needs to be placed in the bathroom! :D

    Richard
  • abacomikeabacomike Member Posts: 12,388
    Well, I just might do "it" again, but all of it is riding on a USAA deal and some additional incentives. "Who knows what lurks in the hearts of men" - THE SHADOW KNOWS!

    2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger

  • fezofezo Member Posts: 10,386
    Geeze, you're fickle......

    I was going to tell you when not using Shell, which is a top tier gas, don't use Hess (it's not) but rather Mobil, which is. Or Chevron.

    Lot of confusing things about what is and isn't. Brands I normally think highly of (Sunoco, BP-Amoco) aren't top tier while ones I don't think much of (Exxon, Phillips 66, 76) are.

    I just started using these brands after roadburner mentioned never having to clean (I think) injectors. He hadn't mentioned the Techron yet.... Since the one unscheduled repair on the Solara was dirty injectors I figured why not?
    2015 Mazda 6 Grand Touring, 2014 Mazda 3 Sport Hatchback, 1999 Mazda Miata 2004 Toyota Camry LE, 1999.
  • houdini1houdini1 Member Posts: 8,356
    edited September 2012
    On Friday, I traded in my 2006 Lexus LS 430 (74,000 miles) on a 2010 Lexus LS 460 AWD (certified, 13,000 miles). Silver over grey.

    Their original offer was my car and $35,000. After about 30 minutes lying, cheating, threatening, and various other accusations we settled on a difference of $31,000. plus a $199. ad fee. I wrote them a check, took the car and went home. Very happy with the car so far. Thank you AAPL.

    2013 LX 570 2016 LS 460

  • nyccarguynyccarguy Member Posts: 17,531
    Its funny, the cheapest gas station here in Stamford is right off 95 & right on my way to work is Shell. The closest gas station (1/2 block away) is BP/Amaco. So Shell & BP are pretty much what goes into my cars. I always drop the hammer when I jump on 95 so I'm sure everything's clean:)

    Craziness going on near where I work. Google "Bronx gas station shooting" & then "Bronx Bodega Shooting.". I know the owner of the gas station. The bodega shooting was literally around the corner from me.

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

  • nyccarguynyccarguy Member Posts: 17,531
    Congrats on the new ride! Enjoy!

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

  • abacomikeabacomike Member Posts: 12,388
    On Friday I traded my 2006 Lexus...

    Sounds like you did great! Enjoy the new Lexus! I sure like the way you negotiate.

    Have great luck with the Lexus.

    2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger

  • houdini1houdini1 Member Posts: 8,356
    Thanks guys. I was trying for the world's shortest sales story. :)

    2013 LX 570 2016 LS 460

  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,480
    that would be:

    I came, I saw, I bought.

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

  • jmonroejmonroe Member Posts: 8,989
    Like I said, my oil message media indicator came on at 12150 miles.

    I don't want to be in the middle of nowhere in the middle of the night during a hurricane when the oil light comes on, and I have to settle for a bottle of WallyMart oil.


    You’ve got me confused again. Why would any one who doesn’t mind 12150 mile oil in their car's engine have a problem with settling for WallyMart oil or any brand of oil for that matter? :confuse:

    jmonroe

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

  • jmonroejmonroe Member Posts: 8,989
    I've got an alternator problem? Right?

    Not necessarily. From what I hear, you don’t drive the Prelude that often and if the battery is 5 years old or more I’d start with that. Most auto parts around me will check your alternator for free before selling you a battery if you ask for the check.

    Let us know what you find.

    jmonroe

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

  • jmonroejmonroe Member Posts: 8,989
    Thanks guys. I was trying for the world's shortest sales story.

    It’s the total deal time that gets you recognition here. You said you spent about 30 minutes at the table. I beat ya. With Mrs. j’s Subie I spent about 10 minutes on the phone with the guy from Columbus. Although I did spend three plus hours going there to get it.

    You got a 2010 with 13K miles on it? That little old heathen lady didn’t go to church much, did she? :surprise:

    Congrats on stealing that car and be careful how you break it in. At what mileage are you going to change the oil? :shades:

    jmonroe

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

  • fezofezo Member Posts: 10,386
    Thanks guys. I was trying for the world's shortest sales story.

    If Mike is on the prowl you certainly won't have the shortest ownership story....
    2015 Mazda 6 Grand Touring, 2014 Mazda 3 Sport Hatchback, 1999 Mazda Miata 2004 Toyota Camry LE, 1999.
  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    I traded in my 2006 Lexus LS 430 (74,000 miles) on a 2010 Lexus LS 460 AWD

    Congratulations! Where did that come from, I didn't even know you were looking for a car. Good story too...nice and brief.....now how about some details.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    I was trying for the world's shortest sales story

    You certainly get the prize for world's shortest sales story. Didn't you go for a test drive or something?

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • abacomikeabacomike Member Posts: 12,388
    If Mike is on the prowl...

    Mike is ALWAYS on the prowl. What I truly enjoy is going in for the kill! If I don't like what I hear, I just move on with my life, or whatever I have left of it. If I like what I hear, I drive home the same way I got there, just with a different set of wheels. Can't let *driver be in the lead all the time with his sales stories.

    2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    Why would any one who doesn’t mind 12150 mile oil in their car's engine have a problem with settling for WallyMart oil

    Since I don't get oil every 3000 miles like some people I only buy the best...so I can actually go 15000 miles before an oil change.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • nyccarguynyccarguy Member Posts: 17,531
    As usual my friend Jmonroe, your experience proves you may be right (I may be crazy). I consulted with a local auto parts store (not a chain) where the guy I deal with used to own a Prelude & I consider him an expert. He said he'd advise on replacing the battery.

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

  • nyccarguynyccarguy Member Posts: 17,531
    As usual my friend Jmonroe, your experience proves you may be right (I may be crazy). I consulted with a local auto parts store (not a chain) where the guy I deal with used to own a Prelude & I consider him an expert. He said he'd advise on replacing the battery.

    What do you guys think of Interstate Batteries?

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

  • driver100driver100 Member Posts: 32,594
    Can't let *driver be in the lead all the time with his sales stories.

    3 cars in a year are way past my limit.....you can take over any time. Actually, I think you are due for a new car any day now...yours must be about 4 months old now.

    2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250

  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,480
    they have always been good. Though the last one I bought was probably in about 1983...

    I actually have used Walmart batteries (everlast?). Tend to be highly rated by CR (if that matters to your!) and are definitely a good value.

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

  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,480
    I have 2 tickets punched this year. I count the one used one, even though it was probably a lateral move!

    but, still a chance I go for #3 by the end of the year.

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

  • mako1amako1a Member Posts: 1,855
    What do you guys think of Interstate Batteries?

    When my mom was still driving in 2007 (in PA) , she had a 2003 Sable with 7,000 miles on it and called me (in VA) to inquire about how long a battery lasts, all I could see was mom stranded in a parking lot.
    I called my buddy in PA and asked him to take moms car and she would give him a couple hundred bucks to put in the best battery for that car.
    He brought it back with an Interstate after inquiring "the best" from a mutual friend and owner of New Ken Generator (auto electrical store in business forever) and that is what he recommended.

    2013 Mustang GT, 2001 GMC Yukon Denali

This discussion has been closed.