If you were in my neck of the woods I'd be thinking about that car. At the moment I don't need a car but what you're asking for what the car is is a steal to me. I'd get a bunch of years out of it and actually be able to be putting money away on the car front.
Your father was right. I can't imagine what's on a Lincoln Town Car, other than the Lincoln name, that would make it worth more than Grand Marquis.
I was all set to take over whatever would be my dad's last car - especially since dad had a bit of a nutty history of cars - but after a string of DeVIlles he looked smaller and as it turned out much less interesting and got a Buick Century. He never warmed up to it and neither did I. He's still around but housebound and not buying any more cars. He'll be 91 in January.
2015 Mazda 6 Grand Touring, 2014 Mazda 3 Sport Hatchback, 1999 Mazda Miata 2004 Toyota Camry LE, 1999.
My father-in-law was a confirmed Merc GC owner and had at least 4 different iterations over the years. I know that he was incredibly disappointed when Mercury dropped the wagon version--although the sedan has a cavernous trunk. The wagon that he had in the late 80s had that fake wood trim made of vinyl. That's probably a feature that no one here misses. When he died unexpectedly back in 04 I believe that his GM had less that 17K on the odometer--mostly it was being used to get groceries.
The ride was a bit like a sofa floating on soft springs. He had the cloth interior on the last one, which was quite comfortable and the seats were roomy--definitely a yacht-like highway cruiser. Ford missed an opportunity by failing to offer a Lazy Boy edition with flip up leg supports for the passengers.
My wife's brother ended up with it and sold it shortly thereafter. I remember offering to get a realistic estimate for a private sale from the Real World Trade-In forum, but he slapped some price in the window and it sold almost immediately. For the intended demographic the GC seems a respectable alternative to a Buick or Oldsmobile.
My feeling is that if Richard still has the "urge" to get the black beauty this coming week and it's available it must be kismet and he should buy, but I've always been good at spending other's money.
Finest riding highway cars you can put your butt down in. Allot of bang for your buck to. I sent a guy on a dealer transfer one time after a new Crown Vic. When he got back he said "I have gone and picked up Mecedes, Audis, Lincolns, Lexus's and any other car you can think of and that is the finest riding car I have ever been in"
Also there is a reason the majority of LEO cars you see on the road are Crown Vics. They are dependable as you could ever want.
Still, even if you take it to the dealership, where you can't see what they're doing, you have to wonder.......
My Mazda dealer and my BMW dealer are both first-rate. I've had UOAs performed on the cars that I take to them and and both dealers have always used the oil that I supplied.
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
fezo....gogi...I'm learning that these cars (CVs/GMs) definitely have their own following....for the very reasons everyone states. They ride great. They're quiet. Ford's been making them for so long, any glitches or build issues were long ago ironed out. They're bullet proof. Most of the ones I've seen advertised have well over 100K miles on them, so they last a long time.
I think I'm talking myself into asking my good Mother whether I can keep it (after all, I am a dutiful son;-). Don't need it, though.
Had another "looker" today. Young-ish guy (mid 20s). He said he'd want to put "20s" on it and a "boom-boom" stereo. Guess it would make a good "pimpin" machine, too.
roadburner....just like dealing with dealerships/sales people we trust, same can be said for those who provide service. If they do good work, and you trust what they do, no reason to change.
I've quit going to those "quickly lube" places for the very reasons you ran across. You ask for something like 5W30. I had one place use 10W30. They tried to convince me that the label on the oil hose was wrong.
That sounds similar to what my dealership said when I called about why 10W30 oil was put in instead of 5w20. They said the data was incorrectly put into their computers ... he assured me several times they put in the correct weight of oil. Sounded like a bunch of bull, sure it was. The weather was warm, so I guess it didn't really matter to the engine. If it had been the dead of winter though, the heavier oil wouldn't have protected the engine as well at start up.
Sorry that I don't live closer to you. For $5,000 painted black, I would pay you cash on the spot. Something tells me that you are enjoying driving your mom's car. Why nor keep it and enjoy yourself?
Glad you're back in the house. When we were renovating our retirement home two years ago, it caught fire. We were in a motel for three weeks, and our contractor practically had to start over. It is certainly no fun. Like you, we had to watch the workmen and deal with the adjustor. These experiences really make you appreciate your home.
You're absolutely correct about Lincolns and GM's. I owned a Lincoln Town Car from 1989-1996. It will always be my favorite car. Still, when I drove the GM and looked at the leather, wood trim, etc., it was no different from the Lincoln---except for the big difference in price.
Thanks for the encouragement. I'm thinking about it. We went to the beach this weekend with some friends. My wife suddenly blurts out, "Richard is buying a Grand Marquis." I nearly spilled my ice cream on my shirt. See how interesting marriage can be?
I tried to teach greenpea those same lessons months before the site "blew up" one night. He forgets these things. Since my return, I have tried to stick to cars rather than grammar. I sorta promised isellhondas that I wouldn't do anything to endanger this site.
GP may be upset with me. He sent me a message on Car Space after the "big blow up" and I couldn't make the response go through. I am so technology challenged. Still, if I see one or two major errors here, I may have to call class to order. :P
Since Richard is talking about Mercury's, I once owned a 1987 Grand Marquis LS, pretty much loaded. In 1990 I put it up for sale but since I only drove it 5 miles round trip to work, it had about 12K on the mileage.
So I under price it (before computers, Edmunds etc.) put it in the classified. The very next morning the phone is ringing off the hook, the wife is furious with people questioning her on the car, and about 4 people wanting to come right over. She calls me at work, says get home, I will not handle whatever you've done now.
I get home, there are 3 people in my driveway almost coming to blows, all middle aged people with means. The car is sitting there and all three are touching it refusing to release it. When I said I'll take the one who came first, that started a bidding war. I ended up selling for maybe seven hundred over advertised, but I never felt good about it. I still feel I did something deceptive, left a bad taste in my mouth.
I don't think that you did a thing that was deceptive. You didn't intentionally under price the car. As they tell us here frequently, a car will bring what the market demands. Your customers wanted the car and were willing to pay a few hundred more to get it. I imagine that the buyer still got a good deal.
BTW, why did you trade after three years? Did you not like the Mercury?
jipster....Can't remember where I saw it, but there was a program on recently regarding one state's initiative (CA?) to stop the lube places from recommending 3,000 mile oil change intervals. Obviously, used oil is tough to dispose of correctly. The program went onto say that with the advent of "oil change" computers in modern cars, and advances in oil additives, there was no longer a need for 3,000 mile oil changes. I concur.
But, some places still insist on putting those little stickers on your windshield recommending 3K intervals.
A few days ago, I took my Accord in for its first oil change. The car monitor said I had 15% of oil life left. I had about 7K miles on the oil that came from the factory. While in the dealership's service area, another customer overheard my conversation with the service writer. He said he'd never go over 3,000 miles between oil changes, regardless of what the car's computer said.
Some things are so ingrained that it's hard to get them to change. I think the last time I changed the oil in my Tahoe, I had 9,000 miles between changes and the oil life monitor came on.
On my departed BMW, I remember the oil life computer came on at almost 15,000 miles. That car didn't even have a dipstick to check the oil level.
richard....sounds like the wife is coming around. Too bad those Earl Sheib places are no longer around. I could have the GM in and out of the paint booth today....sporting their "premium" paint job for around $500.
Funny how little things trigger memories. I noticed a very small dimple in the GM's trunk lid yesterday. Long ago forgotten about, but I remember how it got there. Around 9 years ago, my late Father and I were playing golf. I hit an errant tee shot on a hole by the parking lot. Of course, my ball had to find my Father's car. It didn't break the paint, but there was a slight dimple where it hit. He was not amused. I forked over $100 to him to get it "buffed" out. Clearly, he pocketed the money and never got it fixed.
But, some places still insist on putting those little stickers on your windshield recommending 3K intervalI
I do like the speed in those oil shops but I don't like their computer records. They try to sell you everything possible and their records always show you need it way before the manufacturer. I try to get my oil and then get out - and keep my own records.
Thanks for the moral reassurance on the sale, that was the only time I ever had that happen to me.
Yes I liked the car a great deal, it was simply the bug for a new one, three years in the same car for me was a long time. Now that I'm retired I have to re-think that stance, can't afford that any longer.
GP may be upset with me. He sent me a message on Car Space after the "big blow up" and I couldn't make the response go through. I am so technology challenged. Still, if I see one or two major errors here, I may have to call class to order.
No hard feelings Rich .... It is a little tricky to figure that car space email out. anyway thank you for acknowledging it. I may be bad at typing but I am excellent with numbers or at least I like to think so
My wife suddenly blurts out, "Richard is buying a Grand Marquis."
It could be worse, Richard. My Evil Wife has decided that she wants a Porsche 911! I"m not sure she'd know one if it was parked in our garage, but she's decided that she wants one...
Talk about culture shock, going from her Lexus RX300 to a 911! She knows not of what she desires... Nor does she have a clue on the price of a Porsche. :sick:
'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...)
Interesting. I'm always trying to convince MY wife that SHE needs a Porsche (well, more to the point, that WE need one). Think your wife and my wife would like to hang out? ;P
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
One guy at work put his car up for sale on AutoTrader.
He got a call from "Paul Adams" who spoke very poor English. Paul said he would buy the car unseen for full asking price, and he would send a check out right away.
Guy at work looked into it further as he was very suspicious...A name like Paul Adams who can't speak English - buy sight unseen - full price?????
These guys send a check. Send someone to pick up the car. Seller finds the check bounces in a few days. Seller is out one car and has to repay the bank on the phony check.
The guy you work with got what he deserved in a way. (you know what I mean. No one deserves to be stolen from) It falls back to the "If its to good to be true" rule.
I am suprised some one at your office didn't get there eye poked out with all the red flags flying all over the place
They don't even steal the car. They send a rubber check (for a couple grand more than the asking price) and ask that you immediately forward the extra couple grand to their "shipper". Once you forward your legit money, then a week later you find out the check bounces.
The wire transfer is untraceable and you're out your 2 grand or whatever you forward.
I have emails like that all the time from scammers.
I’ve already told my tale with lug nuts (post 35829). Here is what happened to Son # 2.
He comes over yesterday to do front pads on his 86’ Civic with almost 68K miles, which he uses mostly as a winter beater (note, my key board doesn’t have keys that stick, those are the original miles). He got this car from Mrs. jmonroe’s aunt in 2003 with 22K miles when she decided to replace it with a Mazda 3 (sorry ‘isell’, Son # 1 did the negotiating for her and convinced her that the Civic wasn’t worth about $2300 more.)
Anyway, we (really him, he just wanted moral support) did the pads on the left front first then he moved to the right front. First lug nut, no problem; as he’s trying to remove the second he says, “this is stiff and it doesn’t seem to be coming off”. :surprise: I told him he had no choice, just keep turning it. SNAP, it’s off now and it’s stuck in my 4-way. No problem, that’s why I have a vise. So, of course he says, “now what”? I said, “we’re going to the auto parts to get a new stud, you’ll see”. We got one and I showed him that I was going to cut a notch in the splash guard for the stud to clear the axle because there was no way I was going to take the axle out just to drive out the broken stud. Observant kid, he now says, “in a way I’m glad that happened because now I know how to do that”. I said, “GREAT, I’m just thrilled that you learned something and appreciate the knowledge but why in the hell didn’t you check this when you were still at the place that told you that you needed brakes”? He said, “yeah, I know you’ve told me that a few times, but this place came highly recommended by my boss, he goes there all the time”. I said, “next time have your boss do the fixing”. :mad: :mad:
I’m glad the weekend is over.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
The way I read it the guy 'driver' works with figured this would happen if he went along with that phony scam. Maybe I read it wrong.
Exactly, maybe I wasn't clear enough. As soon as he heard a guy who couldn't speak English with the name Paul Adams he was suspicious. He didn't accept the money or give out any other information. It was really pretty brazen to try a scheme like this.
They don't even steal the car. They send a rubber check (for a couple grand more than the asking price) and ask that you immediately forward the extra couple grand to their "shipper". Once you forward your legit money, then a week later you find out the check bounces.
You are right again boomer. They did want to forward a check for more than the car was selling for.
On the CBC news tonight they have a soldier that was killed in Afghanistan. On the internet are different ads placed for a T-Bird, Audi, etc, cars he could never afford. Then the scammer acts like his family and says they would like to find the car a good home for a very low price - in their son's memory. Just mail $6,000 to an address.................
Unfortunately, there are some real slimey low lifes out there. Makes you wonder about buying or selling on the internet. I know there are legit dealers and people out there, but does any one need to deal with these low lifes!
Unfortunately, there are some real slimey low lifes out there.
Unfortunately you're right and it works because good people want to help a grieving family. We'd all like to get our hands around the necks of those people and we'd take our chances on what would happen to us. :mad:
Edit: I take that back. They're not "people"...they're SOB's. :mad: :mad:
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
I listed some alloy BMW wheels and winter tires on craigslist a week ago. I got 2 inquiries almost immediately saying they would give me a cashiers check.
When I insisted on cash or a postal money order they went away. Hopefully for good.
Sorry about the delay in keeping you all up to date, I am out in California on business travel.
Correct, the buyout on the Acura is roughly $20,000 so at $16,500 I would have some negative equity however whatever the negative equity ends up being, I would pay it out cash to not carry it forward.
I am not sure why this would make the vehicle "not worth much" or make anything seem "fishy".
Anyway, my father showed the vehicle for me while I was away and I have an offer for $18,500 to purchase my TSX. I am going to ask the BMW dealer to maintain the $500 they offered to add to the trade and I will feel like I am getting a very fair deal.
Will keep you posted if we have a deal. Man, the engine in the 335 is soooo smooth and powerful!
Anyway, my father showed the vehicle for me while I was away and I have an offer for $18,500 to purchase my TSX. I am going to ask the BMW dealer to maintain the $500 they offered to add to the trade and I will feel like I am getting a very fair deal.
Excellent, that will put you within $1000 of where you want to be. Then if the dealer will do a "Courtesy Sale" you will probably save the difference in taxes.
Just don't accept a check for more than the car is worth - see previous 5 posts.
335 is amazing ...I can't imagine a car better than that.
You mentioned how little things trigger memories. You triggered one for me. I haven't thought about those Earl Sheib shops in many years. They did a 1967 Ford Galaxy for me---emerald green bottom with a cream top. It was beautiful. Later, they did a 1985 Buick Skylark for me in all black. It looked great, too. I don't know how long the paint jobs would have really lasted. I had both done so that I could sell the cars. They had faded badly over the years. They sure looked good when I sold them.
I haven't thought about those Earl Sheib shops in many years... It looked great, too
Yeah.... I think those 2 to 4 thousand dollar paint jobs are over rated as well. I could go outside with a couple cans of spray paint, and a piece of sand paper, and do just a good of job.
Your lug nut postings brought back another memory. Many years ago my father taught me to loosen each lug nut slightly before taking any of them off. I never really knew why. Since you are a physics expert and I am an English prof, maybe you know why. I never questioned my father when it came to cars; I just followed his orders. If you questioned him, he figured that you doubted his advice. I learned early on that it was better to just follow his instructions. As my mother used to say, "Don't antagonize your father. Do what he says and list your complaints with me." She knew how to keep the peace at home.
Many years ago my father taught me to loosen each lug nut slightly before taking any of them off. I never really knew why. Since you are a physics expert and I am an English prof, maybe you know why.
OK teach listen up. Don’t be like my Sons who only listen when it’s convenient. Fathers DO know best.
You break all of the lug nuts lose while the car is still on the ground. Doing it like that you are not trying to knock the car off the jack with the car in the air. After the tire is replaced, you just snug up the lug nuts while the car is still on the jack then you finish tightening them when the car is back on the ground. Simple and safe, huh?
Then there is the bit about putting undue stress on the park pin of cars with front wheel drive automatic transmissions and the rear wheels spinning when you have the car in the air but that’s waaay beyond an English Prof. and you’d only hurt yourself thinking of that stuff. So, just do what your father taught you, I’m sure he knew your limits of physics. :confuse:
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
Richard.....I used them one time (earl Sheib). This was long ago. They had something like 3 or 4 different paint jobs they'd do......priced accordingly.
I remember $199, $299 and $499 being the price points (maybe another one above $499). No clear coat...strictly one coat of what I remember as being acrylic paint. I got the cheapy one. Had to tape off my own car. I had already bondoed and sanded it. The only thing they did was spray it. The higher up the price ladder, the better the paint, and the more services you got.
But, like you, all I wanted to do was get paint on the car to sell it. I have no idea how long those paint jobs lasted.
Scheib paint was very cheap stuff. I used to spend more on just the PAINT in the can than Scheib charged for an entire paint job.
The difference price ranges represented how far away the painter stood from your car before he squeezed his cheeks and spit it on. Also whether you wanted them to apply the paint with a broom or a vacuum cleaner.
Actually, if the Scheib franchise had a man who knew how to use a spray gun, and you tipped him extra, (of if he had that rare thing called pride in his work) he could put a nice (if only temporary) shine on the car, and presuming you or someone prepped the car properly, it might look good for a year or so. But being the cheapest possible paint product, made from bat guano or something, it had no durability against sun and weather and rock chips, etc.
It not unlike when you paint your house. You can go over the siding with a rag and slop on some paint from Wal Mart or you can power wash, sand scrape and/or burn, use quality undercoat and the best new paint and forget it for 10 years. (unless you live near the beach).
When I was first taught, the initial loosening of the lug nuts was done while the wheel was on the ground, prior to jacking up the car. Once it's jacked up, the wheel will spin if the lug nuts are still fully tightened, unless one is using an air tool (I never was).
Does any one know much about snow tires? I have a BMW 328i Cabriolet and it isn't great in the winter. Dealer recommends 4 snow tires. I have never used 4 snow tires. Is that really necessary? Then there's 17 inch Alloy wheels, 16 inch Alloy wheels, and steel wheels with discs (cost half of the 17" alloys) I could buy that Beautiful Full Size Ford for the cost of these!!!!
What I would like to do is get 2 snows on steel rims. Thanks for the advice about lug nuts, but hopefully the days of doing that myself are over. As I recall, you do start them off loosening on the ground so the wheel doesn't spin, BUT (if I remember right), DON'T DO TOO MUCH OR THERE WILL BE TOO MUCH PRESSURE AND THE SCREW PART COULD BEND.
Get four winter tires. Buy some 16" steel rms and get some nifty BMW OEM wheel covers. That's what I do. I'll get you the part numbers if your dealer is too boneheaded to use the ETK. As for winter tires, I like Bridgestone, Michelin, and Pirelli high perormance winter rubber. Just do it.
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
Comments
Your father was right. I can't imagine what's on a Lincoln Town Car, other than the Lincoln name, that would make it worth more than Grand Marquis.
I was all set to take over whatever would be my dad's last car - especially since dad had a bit of a nutty history of cars - but after a string of DeVIlles he looked smaller and as it turned out much less interesting and got a Buick Century. He never warmed up to it and neither did I. He's still around but housebound and not buying any more cars. He'll be 91 in January.
My father-in-law was a confirmed Merc GC owner and had at least 4 different iterations over the years. I know that he was incredibly disappointed when Mercury dropped the wagon version--although the sedan has a cavernous trunk. The wagon that he had in the late 80s had that fake wood trim made of vinyl. That's probably a feature that no one here misses. When he died unexpectedly back in 04 I believe that his GM had less that 17K on the odometer--mostly it was being used to get groceries.
The ride was a bit like a sofa floating on soft springs. He had the cloth interior on the last one, which was quite comfortable and the seats were roomy--definitely a yacht-like highway cruiser. Ford missed an opportunity by failing to offer a Lazy Boy edition with flip up leg supports for the passengers.
My wife's brother ended up with it and sold it shortly thereafter. I remember offering to get a realistic estimate for a private sale from the Real World Trade-In forum, but he slapped some price in the window and it sold almost immediately. For the intended demographic the GC seems a respectable alternative to a Buick or Oldsmobile.
My feeling is that if Richard still has the "urge" to get the black beauty this coming week and it's available it must be kismet and he should buy, but I've always been good at spending other's money.
Gogiboy
Also there is a reason the majority of LEO cars you see on the road are Crown Vics. They are dependable as you could ever want.
The problem is the ball park I am using is SAFECO Field, the one you are using is the local CIVITAN T-Ball Park
My Mazda dealer and my BMW dealer are both first-rate. I've had UOAs performed on the cars that I take to them and and both dealers have always used the oil that I supplied.
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
I think I'm talking myself into asking my good Mother whether I can keep it (after all, I am a dutiful son;-). Don't need it, though.
Had another "looker" today. Young-ish guy (mid 20s). He said he'd want to put "20s" on it and a "boom-boom" stereo. Guess it would make a good "pimpin" machine, too.
roadburner....just like dealing with dealerships/sales people we trust, same can be said for those who provide service. If they do good work, and you trust what they do, no reason to change.
That sounds similar to what my dealership said when I called about why 10W30 oil was put in instead of 5w20. They said the data was incorrectly put into their computers ... he assured me several times they put in the correct weight of oil. Sounded like a bunch of bull, sure it was. The weather was warm, so I guess it didn't really matter to the engine. If it had been the dead of winter though, the heavier oil wouldn't have protected the engine as well at start up.
I would call AAA. :P
Richard
Glad you're back in the house. When we were renovating our retirement home two years ago, it caught fire. We were in a motel for three weeks, and our contractor practically had to start over. It is certainly no fun. Like you, we had to watch the workmen and deal with the adjustor. These experiences really make you appreciate your home.
Richard
Richard
Richard
Richard
GP may be upset with me. He sent me a message on Car Space after the "big blow up" and I couldn't make the response go through. I am so technology challenged. Still, if I see one or two major errors here, I may have to call class to order. :P
So I under price it (before computers, Edmunds etc.) put it in the classified. The very next morning the phone is ringing off the hook, the wife is furious with people questioning her on the car, and about 4 people wanting to come right over. She calls me at work, says get home, I will not handle whatever you've done now.
I get home, there are 3 people in my driveway almost coming to blows, all middle aged people with means. The car is sitting there and all three are touching it refusing to release it. When I said I'll take the one who came first, that started a bidding war. I ended up selling for maybe seven hundred over advertised, but I never felt good about it. I still feel I did something deceptive, left a bad taste in my mouth.
BTW, why did you trade after three years? Did you not like the Mercury?
Richard
But, some places still insist on putting those little stickers on your windshield recommending 3K intervals.
A few days ago, I took my Accord in for its first oil change. The car monitor said I had 15% of oil life left. I had about 7K miles on the oil that came from the factory. While in the dealership's service area, another customer overheard my conversation with the service writer. He said he'd never go over 3,000 miles between oil changes, regardless of what the car's computer said.
Some things are so ingrained that it's hard to get them to change. I think the last time I changed the oil in my Tahoe, I had 9,000 miles between changes and the oil life monitor came on.
On my departed BMW, I remember the oil life computer came on at almost 15,000 miles. That car didn't even have a dipstick to check the oil level.
richard....sounds like the wife is coming around. Too bad those Earl Sheib places are no longer around. I could have the GM in and out of the paint booth today....sporting their "premium" paint job for around $500.
Funny how little things trigger memories. I noticed a very small dimple in the GM's trunk lid yesterday. Long ago forgotten about, but I remember how it got there. Around 9 years ago, my late Father and I were playing golf. I hit an errant tee shot on a hole by the parking lot. Of course, my ball had to find my Father's car. It didn't break the paint, but there was a slight dimple where it hit. He was not amused. I forked over $100 to him to get it "buffed" out. Clearly, he pocketed the money and never got it fixed.
I do like the speed in those oil shops but I don't like their computer records. They try to sell you everything possible and their records always show you need it way before the manufacturer. I try to get my oil and then get out - and keep my own records.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Yes I liked the car a great deal, it was simply the bug for a new one, three years in the same car for me was a long time. Now that I'm retired I have to re-think that stance, can't afford that any longer.
No hard feelings Rich
GP
It could be worse, Richard. My Evil Wife has decided that she wants a Porsche 911! I"m not sure she'd know one if it was parked in our garage, but she's decided that she wants one...
Talk about culture shock, going from her Lexus RX300 to a 911! She knows not of what she desires... Nor does she have a clue on the price of a Porsche. :sick:
'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...)
Think your wife and my wife would like to hang out? ;P
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
He got a call from "Paul Adams" who spoke very poor English. Paul said he would buy the car unseen for full asking price, and he would send a check out right away.
Guy at work looked into it further as he was very suspicious...A name like Paul Adams who can't speak English - buy sight unseen - full price?????
These guys send a check. Send someone to pick up the car. Seller finds the check bounces in a few days. Seller is out one car and has to repay the bank on the phony check.
Is there no end to these scam artists :sick: ?
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
I am suprised some one at your office didn't get there eye poked out with all the red flags flying all over the place
He wasn't kidding either, that is what he really thought it was.
2013 LX 570 2016 LS 460
The way I read it the guy 'driver' works with figured this would happen if he went along with that phony scam. Maybe I read it wrong. :confuse:
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
The wire transfer is untraceable and you're out your 2 grand or whatever you forward.
I have emails like that all the time from scammers.
2016 Audi A7 3.0T S Line, 2021 Subaru WRX
He comes over yesterday to do front pads on his 86’ Civic with almost 68K miles, which he uses mostly as a winter beater (note, my key board doesn’t have keys that stick, those are the original miles). He got this car from Mrs. jmonroe’s aunt in 2003 with 22K miles when she decided to replace it with a Mazda 3 (sorry ‘isell’, Son # 1 did the negotiating for her and convinced her that the Civic wasn’t worth about $2300 more.)
Anyway, we (really him, he just wanted moral support) did the pads on the left front first then he moved to the right front. First lug nut, no problem; as he’s trying to remove the second he says, “this is stiff and it doesn’t seem to be coming off”. :surprise: I told him he had no choice, just keep turning it. SNAP, it’s off now and it’s stuck in my 4-way. No problem, that’s why I have a vise. So, of course he says, “now what”? I said, “we’re going to the auto parts to get a new stud, you’ll see”. We got one and I showed him that I was going to cut a notch in the splash guard for the stud to clear the axle because there was no way I was going to take the axle out just to drive out the broken stud. Observant kid, he now says, “in a way I’m glad that happened because now I know how to do that”. I said, “GREAT, I’m just thrilled that you learned something and appreciate the knowledge but why in the hell didn’t you check this when you were still at the place that told you that you needed brakes”? He said, “yeah, I know you’ve told me that a few times, but this place came highly recommended by my boss, he goes there all the time”. I said, “next time have your boss do the fixing”. :mad: :mad:
I’m glad the weekend is over.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
Exactly, maybe I wasn't clear enough. As soon as he heard a guy who couldn't speak English with the name Paul Adams he was suspicious. He didn't accept the money or give out any other information. It was really pretty brazen to try a scheme like this.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
You are right again boomer. They did want to forward a check for more than the car was selling for.
On the CBC news tonight they have a soldier that was killed in Afghanistan. On the internet are different ads placed for a T-Bird, Audi, etc, cars he could never afford. Then the scammer acts like his family and says they would like to find the car a good home for a very low price - in their son's memory. Just mail $6,000 to an address.................
Unfortunately, there are some real slimey low lifes out there. Makes you wonder about buying or selling on the internet. I know there are legit dealers and people out there, but does any one need to deal with these low lifes!
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Unfortunately you're right and it works because good people want to help a grieving family. We'd all like to get our hands around the necks of those people and we'd take our chances on what would happen to us. :mad:
Edit: I take that back. They're not "people"...they're SOB's. :mad: :mad:
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
When I insisted on cash or a postal money order they went away. Hopefully for good.
2025 Forester Limited, 2024 Subaru Legacy Sport
Correct, the buyout on the Acura is roughly $20,000 so at $16,500 I would have some negative equity however whatever the negative equity ends up being, I would pay it out cash to not carry it forward.
I am not sure why this would make the vehicle "not worth much" or make anything seem "fishy".
Anyway, my father showed the vehicle for me while I was away and I have an offer for $18,500 to purchase my TSX. I am going to ask the BMW dealer to maintain the $500 they offered to add to the trade and I will feel like I am getting a very fair deal.
Will keep you posted if we have a deal. Man, the engine in the 335 is soooo smooth and powerful!
Excellent, that will put you within $1000 of where you want to be. Then if the dealer will do a "Courtesy Sale" you will probably save the difference in taxes.
Just don't accept a check for more than the car is worth - see previous 5 posts.
335 is amazing ...I can't imagine a car better than that.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Richard
Yeah.... I think those 2 to 4 thousand dollar paint jobs are over rated as well. I could go outside with a couple cans of spray paint, and a piece of sand paper, and do just a good of job.
That is so funny. You have to admit that they were about as big as a house. What a wonderful car. We really enjoyed it.
Richard
Richard
OK teach listen up. Don’t be like my Sons who only listen when it’s convenient. Fathers DO know best.
You break all of the lug nuts lose while the car is still on the ground. Doing it like that you are not trying to knock the car off the jack with the car in the air. After the tire is replaced, you just snug up the lug nuts while the car is still on the jack then you finish tightening them when the car is back on the ground. Simple and safe, huh?
Then there is the bit about putting undue stress on the park pin of cars with front wheel drive automatic transmissions and the rear wheels spinning when you have the car in the air but that’s waaay beyond an English Prof. and you’d only hurt yourself thinking of that stuff. So, just do what your father taught you, I’m sure he knew your limits of physics. :confuse:
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
I remember $199, $299 and $499 being the price points (maybe another one above $499). No clear coat...strictly one coat of what I remember as being acrylic paint. I got the cheapy one. Had to tape off my own car. I had already bondoed and sanded it. The only thing they did was spray it. The higher up the price ladder, the better the paint, and the more services you got.
But, like you, all I wanted to do was get paint on the car to sell it. I have no idea how long those paint jobs lasted.
The difference price ranges represented how far away the painter stood from your car before he squeezed his cheeks and spit it on. Also whether you wanted them to apply the paint with a broom or a vacuum cleaner.
Actually, if the Scheib franchise had a man who knew how to use a spray gun, and you tipped him extra, (of if he had that rare thing called pride in his work) he could put a nice (if only temporary) shine on the car, and presuming you or someone prepped the car properly, it might look good for a year or so. But being the cheapest possible paint product, made from bat guano or something, it had no durability against sun and weather and rock chips, etc.
It not unlike when you paint your house. You can go over the siding with a rag and slop on some paint from Wal Mart or you can power wash, sand scrape and/or burn, use quality undercoat and the best new paint and forget it for 10 years. (unless you live near the beach).
Looks good!!
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He wants BUYERS not lookers (like in sales stories). :P
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
I could buy that Beautiful Full Size Ford for the cost of these!!!!
What I would like to do is get 2 snows on steel rims. Thanks for the advice about lug nuts, but hopefully the days of doing that myself are over. As I recall, you do start them off loosening on the ground so the wheel doesn't spin, BUT (if I remember right), DON'T DO TOO MUCH OR THERE WILL BE TOO MUCH PRESSURE AND THE SCREW PART COULD BEND.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
tidester, host
SUVs and Smart Shopper
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Just do it.
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
FYI, you should ALWAYS put snow tires on all the tires.
As for brands, I love Nokian tires. They're expensive, but they are worth every penny. I've also had good luck with Toyo and Continentals.