Did you recently take on (or consider) a loan of 84 months or longer on a car purchase?
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Stories from the Sales Frontlines
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Salesperson said the MDX has turned into his bread a butter vehicle (unusual for a vehicle with an MSRP of $45K-$55K). That was followed closely by the RDX. Then the TL, then the ILS, and pulling up the rear, the RL.
He also said it used to be the opposite, that the TL was the top volume seller and that the redesign had helped the car's sales immensely.
I've read where Acura is coming out with a new NSX. That might help as a halo car.
They've always had the engineering thing down pat. It's still hard to find a better built and more reliable vehicle. They've stumbled on the styling thing, though.
I still can't see the upcharge for an RL vs a TL, which is the same problem they had with the last RL.
The good news, all Acura models (and Hondas in general) hold their resale value extremely well. So, if you buy an RL at $10K off, presumably, you'd not lose money on it if you traded it after a year.....PRESUMABLY!
I test drove an ILS a few months ago when I had to drop of my sister's car for service and pick up a loaner (I had the time, and she didn't). They're good cars....almost like a shrunken version of the TL. No, it didn't have 300 HP or AWD, but the rest of it was all there. Nice ride, nice materials, great handling.
The sticker was ~$30K. I dunno. But, it's about the same size as the Merdedes CLA, which is supposed to come to market at the same $30K mark. But, from what I've heard, most are $35K-$40K. Given that price delta, with the reliability and build quality factored in, I'd probably pick the ILS.
My sentiments exactly!!!!!!!!
OK....does anyone mind if I drift off topic? Anyone? No?
Good....so, this Fall/Winter, I decided that instead of watching the days get shorter, and me not getting out much and doing anything (which is typical for me once there's a time change), I'm going to take up a musical instrument.
The question, which one?
I do like keyboards, and can do a mean chopsticks, if I have help.
So, off I go to find a piano....nothing new, mind you. But, something I can tinker with given that I'm teaching myself to play (via lots of internet video lessons).
Even used, an upright piano is expensive. So, what about those little electric keyboards at Costco? Still more than I want to spend.
Sam Ash? They carry used gear. Even used, their stuff is too high end and more than I want to spend.
So, using my relatively newly acquired skill learned in these threads of going to "Craigs List", I peruse some local musical instruments. After a day or two of this, I happened on a guy who doesn't live that far from me. He has a "pro" keyboard and amp to go with it. Both are sitting in a warehouse.
Cut to the chase, the guy was in a band, and the band broke up. In parallel, his wife is divorcing him. As he put it, he's "starting new".
He plugged in the keyboard to the amp, and aside from some scrapes on it (he says from setting it up and taking it down with the band), it doesn't look all that bad. He starts playing it. He's really, really good. He's making this keyboard sound like a grand piano, a sythesizer, a blues organ, etc. Impressive.
The set up is about 10 years old, supposedly, the keyboard alone cost $2K when new, and the amp $1,000. He wants $500 for both. Still more than I want to spend. I offer him $350. He balks. He has a guitar (some brand he says is well known in the industry, but is foreign to me). He plugs it into the same amp and he tears through a quick "Manic Depression" by Hendrix. He's really good.
$500 for all of it.
OK....SOLD!
I've got as far as tuning the guitar (again, via a YouTube video). Clapton....watch out!!!!!!!!!!
Kirstie--
I have a wicked scar post-staple removal that I am delighted to share with the trick-or-treaters. It looks like something right out of Frankenstein. Given its placement I think OK law enforcement will take take a dim view of sharing. Of course if my scars were more like those of Frankenstein's monster I probably wouldn't be typing this response.
Gogiboy
Richard--
I never thought I would utter these words, but I know exactly what you mean! My current flexibility leaves something to be desired.
Gogiboy
Even that might make some people think. One theory is that a few bouts of the flew is just hard on the heart. I'd like to know the reason, but, even if no one knows for sure, the statistics are still stunning.........why would someone not get their flu-shot?
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
You would think they would make a few cars that would have wide high doors and be easier for people to get in and out, especially people who aren't in perfect physical shape.
SUVs are a help to some people, but the large step up can be a problem for a lot of people too. Just a car with a nice boxy shape, wide high doors, could appeal to a lot of people...and it may become a taxi of choice for cab drivers.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
I echo other poster's sentiments and wish you speedy recovery. I also absolutely agree with you about preferring to live with some physical limitations over dementia or Alzheimer's. Our minds make us who we are!
It must be unbelievably hard to contend with your father's mental decline. I wish you only the best as you deal with his devastating disease.
Gogiboy
I have been getting flu shots for 15 years with 100% success. Post surgery they asked if I wanted a flu shot and I said that I already had one. They said, well, what about a pneumonia shot? I said no. They said would I like one and I said, well, I guess so. Later it made me wonder if it was mop-n-glow. What do you guys think?
I will say that I was asked to repeatedly inhale and blow into a plastic chamber to assess my breathing. I was told many patients develop poor, shallow breathing after surgery because of pain and pain meds. Maybe that leads to pneumonia?
Gogiboy
Your words and thoughts are so very deeply appreciated, gogiboy. It sure made my day here in the hospital, that's for sure!
Yes, it is very difficult to see one's father deteriorate in front of you, day by day, week by week. It hurts and is accompanied by frustration as well.
Again, thanks gogi.
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
In my life I have never had the flu. Had a flu shot 20 years ago and felt like crap the next day...BUT...was talked into a flu shot last year with no ill effects.
Maybe it's time again?
Stay well you guys and for those who are under the weather, a positive thought and a prayer from me.
"There once was a man from Boston who drove a little Austin...."
Suppose I better not finish the limerick!
Like I said I was talked into getting one probably 20 years ago and the next day I felt terrible"
I did get one last year and there were no bad effects so now that I'm getting older it'll be a yearly thing.
Besides...
" A shot in a glass beats a shot in the a@@!"
Bummer! Next time buy a really big bicycle chain.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Ha ha I just got a mental image of you coming to the door and yelling "hey kids, look at this!"
Speaking of Frankenstine scars, one of our mechanics was cutting wood Monday and the chainsaw kicked back into his shoulder and face. 50-60 stitches just to his face. He should recover but Yikes!
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Some articles I've read say it's the inflammation an infection causes that somehow contributes to the buildup of plaque on artery walls. Evidently inflammation of any kind damages your internal systems.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
I was planning to just wait on the car, but I ended up having to rent a car because I had an emergency assignment in Northern KY. I rented through the Mazda dealer, but when I came to pick my car up my advisor told me that they would cover the rental cost 100%. Nice!!!
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
My son stepped out briefly, left the key in the ignition, and when he came back, about a minute later, the car was gone. Yikes!
Other than checking the coolant and putting a snow brush and a blanket in the back, what else could a modern car possible need?
Keep in mind:
it's southern NH
they have a garage
if it snows they are staying put.
Mike - you are laid up in the hospital? Oye! Please get better my friend:)
Michaell - best of luck with the whole, hole in the head thing!
Gogiboy & Richard - get better! Quick!
I know all you guys will PULL THROUGH
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
I have had flu shot for years. Occasionally a little soreness at the site and a little sniffle rarely.
My wife had flu shot this year and within 8 hours was feeling sickly. Of course, she had noticed strange feelings in her ears and throat for a couple of days before which we had assumed was allergy to mold and pollen. But may have been a minor cold or flu which developed after the shot.
I'm sorry to report I haven't had any beyond my existing conditions and I extend my sympathy to each of you who have problems.
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
RB--
I'm glad to hear that your MS3 is chugging along. I know that you had a few hiccups early along, but mostly smooth sailing since. I really miss being able to drive my 07 M3 Hatch. I know that you have considerably more miles on yours than my paltry 48K. My mileage will be stuck on that number for at least 4 more weeks and probably a bit longer as my surgeon wants no phys. therapy until he can see fresh x-rays in three more weeks. Luckily I have no hot car dates or long road trips planned.
Mazda is one of those brands that seems to get very little press--probably because they are such a bit player in the US automotive market (even smaller than Subaru)--but they make really solid cars with a bit of flair and, at least for now, have not been plagued by many recalls. I have been very satisfied with the trouble-free driving I have enjoyed thus far. Not bad for a car that turns 7 in two months.
Gogiboy
GG--
Where does that leave the TSX? Wasn't that supposed to be one step up from the entry level RSX (long dead). Does the ILS make it redundant or irrelevant? At one time I know that it was sized like the European Accord, which was a bit smaller than its US counterpart, but bigger than the Civic. I thought Acura even threw in a V6 into one trim level.
Gogiboy
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so, keep the ILX and add a 2.4l AT "premium" option for the smaller crowd, and a new TL, slightly smaller, and give it a 4 and 6 cyl option. The RLX can remain for the big, expensive crowd.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
Thus I can confirm that your mental health definitely affects your physical health.
I told her when she comes back to I'd be happy to see her but not if it's the same old thing. I gotta expand my circle of friends down here. Most of my close friends (and it helps that most are guys) live a couple hours away.
I bought a Magellan GPS that has Bluetooth for the Mazda. So now I can be hands free in both cars. I may have to expand that to the rest of the cars. My wife's car has it but she didn't get the hang of it. Ill try her again.
Yeah, I don't know why Mazdas aren't more popular. I absolutely love mine. Since the Solara no longer has to do double duty as a family car I'm toying with replacing it after it's paid off with a Miata. We will see.
People don't consider them too much when car shopping.
For that reason, they make GREAT values as used cars since they just don't hold resale values like Honda and Toyota do.
Nissans fit into that same category. People just won't pay crazy money for them.
I sympathize, I hurt my knee cutting up some trees a while back and I went nuts not being able to drive for only a week. As for my Mazda, it seemed to have issues every every 10,000 to 20,000 miles until it hit 60,000 miles- after which I really haven't had a major problem. I can't wait to get the Koni FSD shocks/struts installed- I've heard that they transform the car.
Mazda is one of those brands that seems to get very little press--probably because they are such a bit player in the US automotive market (even smaller than Subaru)--but they make really solid cars with a bit of flair and, at least for now, have not been plagued by many recalls. I have been very satisfied with the trouble-free driving I have enjoyed thus far. Not bad for a car that turns 7 in two months.
Mazda actually strives to make their cars engaging to drive- much like BMW did up until couple of years ago(and as did Honda in the '80s and '90s). You know enthusiasts had significant input into the designs. I also like the fact that Mazda-like BMW-competes aggressively in production-based road racing. Now, if Mazda would only build a Miata Coupe- with @250 bhp under the hood....
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
You can probably pick up a used Hummer for very little these days. "
Ahh, don't you mean a Jeep???
All the more reason to buy them used. Although around me I see Nissan and Mazda asking prices almost as high as Honda and Toyota.
That's why I tend to go with Detroit cars. No matter how much they shrink the quality gap people still perceive then to be inferior. Prices are more reasonable.
I don't buy cars to impress the snobs.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
It handled nicely and was getting well over 30 mpg in the city. I did notice the DSG transmission. I could feel the rumble of the "clutch" starting out in first gear but otherwise it was very smooth. One oddity was that if I put it into neutral when stopped and then shifted into D, there was no clunk as the transmission engaged. It felt that it was in neutral until I accelerated.
However, I think the TSX goes away. IIRC, it was indeed based on the European Accord. But, was similar in size to the TL. So, the ILX takes over for the TSX, which according to those "in the know" is supposed to be the reincarnation of the Integra (high quality, sporty, tossable, 4 cyl). Not sure if it achieves that goal or not, as I never drove an Integra.
From what I understand, according to "Acurazine" (one of two model specific forums I follow...the other being "Bimmerfest"), 2014 is going to be a short model year for the current TL. An all new TL (if that's what they're going to call it) is supposed to hit the streets by 2015.
So, to bring everything back around to kind of on topic, it looks like my S4 is going to need a new trans (under warranty). That's on top of the MMI not being entirely functional as advertised (some real iPhone and iPod problems), CDs seem to give it fits, etc. It could take as long as a month to fix (assuming parts that have to be ordered....some from Germany). The dilemma I'm dealing with now is, I love the car. But, after 19 months, it's proved to be something of a problem child. Granted, the dealership gives me nice cars to drive while their service dept fiddles with it, it's still quite a hassle.
If I keep it (they've floated the idea of giving me an extended "bumper to bumper" warranty), the CARFAX is going to show how much it has been in the shop, which it turn, could very well affect its resale.
I'm also not much in the mood to persue "lemon law" route. I did that before with my late Mother's Caddilac. It was a supreme hassle.
Money is money...especially when it's my money.
Need some thoughts from the peanut gallery. Which way to go?
Check autotrader too. I remember andres3 said he was looking for a CPO S4 and had trouble finding them. In addition, the ones he found were not too much cheaper than ordering new. I know you & know your car is in showroom shape. You should get top dollar for it & below invoice pricing on the lame duck TL.
2001 Prelude Type SH, 2022 Highlander XLE AWD, 2025 Camry SE AWD
Exactly. That's why I'm backing off from my friend who has become toxic. If she starts acting like her normal self again I'll be happy to have her back in my life, but I have too many other things - health, family - to let one friendship gone bad affect me.
GG--
All I can say is WOW! You don't have that many miles on the S4 do you? Wasn't this the ex-girlfriend's car? Do you suppose she put something in the tranny before the final breakup? I'm not sure what to say about the poor communication between your personal electronics and those of the car except that it seems to be a problem with a variety of nameplates. Of course, such issues have little impact on me as I am virtually technologically illiterate when it comes to those connections. Hell, I just replaced my flip phone with a smart phone last month. I'm no luddite, but I do have trouble staying current.
I guess, more importantly, what are the Audi dealership and corporate Audi folk saying about all of these issues? I understand that it's under warranty, but do they have an explanation for such a premature tranny failure?
Demand a loaner R8 for the days your S4 is in the shop. It's the least they can do--although I know your local dealerships have been less cooperative than the one in Chicago where you bought it.
Inquiring minds...
Gogiboy
At 35,000 miles, I hit a piece of metal in the road and cut one of my tires. At the time Costco had Michelin X's on sale with 60.00 off on a set of four so I just changed them all.
Now, at 71,000 miles they still have over half their tread left but wet weather traction has become HORRIBLE to say the least! On a hill, it's impossible to start out without wheel spin.
They tell me it's because the tires have lost their "siping" and what I'm experiencing is normal. They also tell me that X's are no longer being made.
Any suggestions what to put on?
I haven't heard a peep out of Audi corporate, except that the MMI woes need a firmware update that they don't have. Apparently, the stereo portion adhere's to an old (very old) CD standard, and an old version of Apple's iPod firmware. As such, cut outs occur pretty regularly when playing CDs and pluggin in an iPod. So, those issues they can't fix (yet, but will at some unknown time in the future).
I could tollerate those issues. But, the more troubling point is the Quattro system binds when going around corners. It's sporadic, but the dealer acknowledges they felt it, too. I think it might be an issue with the Quattro coupling. They say "no". They say it might be the trans, but needs to get approval from corporate to replace it. They're the experts.
What's the car worth? I dunno. Even though it's a '13, it's closing in on 2 years old. Buybacks aren't something that car companies generally like to admit to, as it tarnishes the reputation of the brand, and they lose money on the car that becomes the buyback.
NYC....the car has always been garaged. It's only seen one very mild winter. It's been washed about every week, and waxed at least 10 times. So, yeah...it's physically pretty close to spotless. It's had two oil changes, one was just a month ago. It came with the optional all-season tires. So, I'm guessing there are another 15K-20K worth of tread left on them. Yes, I've stuck my foot in it a lot (why buy such a car if you aren't willing to do that). And, yes I've purposely looked for "twisties" to attack in the car. But, it's never been even remotely abused.
I still haven't made up my mind what to do.
Michelin Defender.
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
I would suggest Yokohama Avids. I have them on both my Odyssey and Passat and have been very happy. They should go 50K.
GG, not sure if the iphone problem is similar to the problem in my wife's 2013 A4. She can't get the Bluetooth to work....it won't accept the phone numbers from her cell phone. The dealer worked on it for 90 minutes and gave up.
As for what to do? I'd ask for a meeting with an Audi head office person. You are a sensible guy, and you have negotiated issues before. If you don't like what they say you might consider selling it privately,and start fresh.
My wife has grown to really like her A4. It hasn't been compromised like a 3 Series, VW/Audi knows how to put an element of fun in the driving experience. She has a manual, and it is a great car. It took awhile to get over less power than the 335, but, overall, she likes the Audi more.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Better than my friends Maserati......12k miles on his tires!
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
I would presume that a Maserati would come with high performance summer tires - not exactly known for high tread wear no matter the brand.
I used to be a HUGE Michelin fan until this set I have now. They are the old discontinued Michelin X's.
At this point they still have 6/32nds of tread left which is about half of what they came with. On wet payment they really have lost their grip and since we get so much rain here, sometimes snow and ice, it's time for them to go.
Appreciate the suggestions.
Went to the Apple Store, they tested it and said it was fine. But, they still just gave me another one...well, just because. Talk about great customer service. The new iPod had the same issues with MMI. Changed the cable, still no fix.
I have some CDs that I haven't burned to my iTunes. Some play in the Audi stereo. Some cut out (just like the iPod).
After 3 attempts to fix it (unsuccessfully), they just say they have to wait for Audi corporate to provide a fix....something that hasn't happened in the entire car's 18 months. So, they don't even try any more.
The sporadic grinding/binding in the drivetrain when going around corners is the most troubling. It hasn't affected driveability.....YET. But, it's becoming more frequent. I'm convinced it's only a matter of time before it fails. Maybe tomorrow, maybe next year....but it will eventually fail, leaving me stranded. The dealer keeps telling me that because I've reported it, the issue will be fully covered.
My issue has been that I'll eventually be left stranded, and it's bound to affect the car's value, given any report that shows up with all the issues on it, if/when I ever sell/trade it.
They're pushing for a new transmission. I've taken it to the two local dealers. They both acknowledge the issues, and they're both saying the same thing...."Audi corporate must make a decision".
Holidays coming up, I don't know if I'll wait for them, or start something now, in the hopes a satisfaction resolution can be attained before the holidays.
We have some Michelin Cross Tours on our 09 Escape.
I'm pretty sure they will be good for 75-80k.
The best performing tire I've found for our 04 Escape is the Goodyear Tripletread. It is unflappable in wet, snow, ice, and tracks great on the highway. The do ride kind of stiff, so I don't think they would suit you.
You ask that on THIS forum? Of course, get a new car.
Try something totally different like a Caddy ATS. Maybe it will wash the bad taste out.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
As good as they look, I could probably sell them on Craigslist for 100.00 for the set or even give them away.
A lot of people probably wouldn't notice or even care about the diminished traction or maybe on a different car it wojuldn't be a problem.