I always thought it was funny. An enlisted guy could have been shot up in Vietnam or some other god forsaken place, yet a person who never served can get USAA insurance simply because his father happened to be an officer.
I heard this has now changed but they still wouldn't take me. You would think they would be happy to take my money?
I was hoping you would be one of the ones to respond, seeing as how you worked in both types of enviroments. Any tips for the interview in high end dealers?
I thought I would post my question here because I am going to sell cars just hadn't decided which type. Once I do though I will glady contribute stories from the "front lines", which it seems to me that this forum is lacking.
I believe IsellHondas is in the same region as me, Bellevue, WA, if this is so any advice or info. on the local area dealers.
Good clothing does not necessarily equate good credit.
I regularly get younger clientele in with fancy wear, nice watches and bling chains who unfortunately can't finance a ham sandwich due to horrible credit. They spent their credit (when they had it) and money on looking nice, instead of repaying what is owed.
My dad had an anti-theft feature like that. It was a 61 Valiant that had starting issues. One night he was leaving work and the car wouldn't do anything. Mechanic looked at it and said a thief tried to hot wire it and couldn't start it but drained the battery....
C'mon, who do you think is going to believe that someone tried to steal a VALIANT ?
I'll bet your next post is going to tell us someone swiped one of your neighbors Hyundais. :surprise:
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
I regularly get younger clientele in with fancy wear, nice watches and bling chains who unfortunately can't finance a ham sandwich due to horrible credit.
C'mon, who do you think is going to believe that someone tried to steal a VALIANT ?
I'll bet your next post is going to tell us someone swiped one of your neighbors Hyundais.
That was exactly our reaction! This was a five year old white Valiant wagon. Unless you needed to grab a slant six to put in another car it's the LAST thing you'd think of to steal.
We were actually disappointed the guy didn't succeed. He'd have done us a favor.
2015 Mazda 6 Grand Touring, 2014 Mazda 3 Sport Hatchback, 1999 Mazda Miata 2004 Toyota Camry LE, 1999.
Gogiboy wrote per a mean spirited post on richard64's typo. " I think a better--and more snide--remark to isell's inquiry was that you were wearing your best pair of Focaccias, a huge "step up" from those "pedestrian" Guccis worn by Grand Merc.-owning poseurs in Seattle. " Amen ,mon frere' . Per alf;) "For manners are not idle, but the fruit Of loyal nature, and of noble mind." Lord Alfred Tennyson But as to AMC's choice of names, Hornet, Gremlin, if you bought and later had mechanical problems, weren't you forewarned ? Per Lord Alfred Tennyson's comments. Earned only, not given lightly. The value richard has contributed to this forum is without intelligent question. Post on mon sirs. Wishing good spirits and kindly posts in 2009.
My experience with USAA has been very positive. I have been with them since 1990. Not only are their rates low, but I had a vehicle stolen and they far exceeded my expectations. They also have a very good credit card program.
"...I will gladly contribute stories from the 'front lines', which it seems to me that this forum is lacking."
My dear, young friend you are but 21 in years. Though our forum is not constantly blessed with direct front line stories, we have much to offer on the various topics of life and living. You can learn many things from those of us who have lived 10-50 years beyond your brief visit on this planet. Partake of the fruits of our labors, the sweat of our brows, the tears of our anguish, the joys of our associations, and the sweet smells of our successes. People like Moo are not just salesmen. They are fathers, husbands, friends, and professionals who possess intelligence, sensitivity, and integrity. That is all part of what makes them good salesmen---not just the training seminars. Read all of the posts and digest the value in each.
We wish you great fortune as you venture out into the wonderful world of work. Remember: The product is important, but the diversity of the people is irreplaceable. If you achieve half of what the men here have achieved in life, you may then consider yourself a man among men. Our blessings go with you.
And lo my comrade speaks of Tennyson. For it is now in this seventh day of our new year that we remember Alfred Lord:
"Ring out the old, ring in the new, Ring happy bells, across the snow: The year is going, let him go; Ring out the false, ring in the true.
FROM IN MEMORIAM
To stay on topic: Ford announced today that they have extended Employee Pricing and rebates until January 12th. GG, you were right. They did it. On January 13th, we could see other surprises?
Sorry no offense intended when I was mentioning the lack of sales stories, didn't mean for it to be construed that way. I just enjoy reading a good story. The sales stories here have a lot of excitement. You can almost taste the victory or feel the agony of defeat when the salesman relate their stories to us. I will definitely try to get more out of it than just sales stories, but I have a feeling that all the things you have listed I will have to experience for myself. Hopefully, some of those listed I will experience less than the other ones listed.
Thank you for your wish of great fortune and may it fall upon me, looking up can't see anything yet.
The reason I wanted to get into car sales was to generate more income for my restaurant. I have everything in place I just need the advertising dollars. It's in a great location and all it needs is exposure. My thought process went something like this, " make money selling cars = more money in my pocket = more money in the restaurant = more passive income".
Thank you for your comment and I will try to learn more from all on this thread who have a couple more miles on the odometer and a couple more dings on the bumpers, which of course only adds character. Like you said if I can just follow their tread marks they left in life may I be half the car, ahem, men they are.
"...The reason I wanted to get into car sales was to generate more income for my restaurant..."
Wow, you must be full of energy to take on two jobs that require full time dedication to be successful.
Here's a suggestion, give out a few free meals at your restaurant as incentive to close the deal on the cars. People love those extras. You sell the car and promote your business at the same time.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Duke. Let's see, what's that phrase? Oh yeah, purple prose.
My dear, young friend you are but 21 in years. Though our forum is not constantly blessed with direct front line stories, we have much to offer on the various topics of life and living. You can learn many things from those of us who have lived 10-50 years beyond your brief visit on this planet. Partake of the fruits of our labors, the sweat of our brows, the tears of our anguish, the joys of our associations, and the sweet smells of our successes. . .
I agree with the others jonanong. I have restaurant clients, and those that are successful are the ones that devote their full attention and time to the entity. I don't think you will be successful working part-time and two careers that require maximum effort.
If you are in search of "advertising" budget, try and be creative with your resources. Here are some suggestions:
1. Create coupons and give them to the concierge at local hotels. And either bring in some free food to the hotel staff or offer a spiff. Provide an incentive for them to refer guests to your restaurant.
2. Bring food over to radio stations. DJ's always eat during the air, and nothing like a free plug.
3. Same thing- offer to cater a rotary meeting or something similar.
4. Finally, cut other operational expenses in every area possible. Continue to get quotes on insurance, linens, and if the restaurant is slow - send excess staff home.
With a great attention to detail, you should find the advertising dollars you need.
Thanks for the kind words. Really, I did next to nothing. I loaned a good neighbor a car. That's pretty much it. I've got 3 "vehicles" and 2 drivers. I can't use all of them at the same time.
Richard....so now that Ford has extended their incentives, do you plan on ordering a "black" Merc Gr Marquis? Or, are you still on the hunt for one on a dealer's lot? Stability control or not. the ones I've driven in inclement weather have no problem getting around. Then again, I think there's a good many of us here that have driven RWD cars, with mismatched retreads, no SC, bondo holding the body together, to no ill effect.
Those experiences should have taught us a thing or two about driving cars with no SC. IMHO, good tires are much more important than SC.
On the other hand, I got a call from my friend who bought the new Cobra. He was trying to get it from parked in front of his house, up his driveway, and into his garage. His driveway only has a slight incline, but the driveway is relatively long. And, we had a little ice and a little snow the last couple of days. Even with SC, he couldn't get it up the driveway and into the garage. SC came on, over and over. Still, no dice.
And, we had a little ice and a little snow the last couple of days. Even with SC, he couldn't get it up the driveway and into the garage. SC came on, over and over. Still, no dice. We ended up having to PUSH it into his garage. It's all about the tires!!!!!!!
Tires are extremely important, Stability control and Traction Control won't do too much good without good tires BUT SC, TC 4WD or AWD won't help you at all on sheer ice. No wheels can get a grip. The SC is of use if the wheels are skidding out or need to read the lay of the land when you get yourself into a situation when you can't control where the car will go....our brains can't calibrate the speed the wheels need to turn to keep from losing control...but computers can. That's why SC will become mandatory, it is too good and too important not to have it.....sililar to ABS,.....keeps the wheels from locking up....computers calculate the speed to keep the wheels moving. It isn't fair to you or loved ones not to have these features if you are buying a new car.
The reason I wanted to get into car sales was to generate more income for my restaurant.
I haven't sold cars jonanong, but I have thought that I would like to give it a try. I have started a business though that has been successful, and as others have said, you can't do 2 different things at the same time, and especially 2 jobs that take up so much of your time. To be good you have to concentrate on doing one or the other.
The ideas given to increase sales in your resteraunt are good ones and IMO you should try to concentrate on that....might be better to increase business in a business you do have going (rather than spread yourself too thin).
We tried a lot of new restaurants when they put ads in local newspapers, special for the week at a low price (or buy one dinner get one free or 2nd for 1/2 price)...makes us go to a restaurant we might not have tried. The danger is many people will expect that price or they won't go in the future. But, if the restaurant is truly good I would go back and consider it a real good find.
I think what you do have going for you if you do go into car sales or continue in the restaurant biz, are; You're young and ambitious which is not too common these days You wanted information about car sales...you found this sight, so you did good research, You stated your situation very clearly and wrote very concise polite emails to find information.
I think you will be successful for those reasons, but I would say concentrate on one career or business at a time.....unless you open a used car lot that has a restaurant on the premises...now there's an idea!
Thanks for the kind words. Really, I did next to nothing.
That was the whole point of the posts that thanked you. You REALLY did do something; it wasn’t “next to nothing”. Which is surely the reason that your neighbors came to your aid when that tree fell. Life is so much more than making money. It’s the bolts and nuts of it that makes it work and you proved that.
I think there's a good many of us here that have driven RWD cars, with mismatched retreads, no SC, bondo holding the body together, to no ill effect.
Yep, I remember those days. There’s nothing like the ‘feel’ of the car in the seat of your pants. Once you learned that ‘feel’ you pretty much knew how to drive, especially on snow. In fact, I’m pretty much convinced that until you’ve driven in snow it’s tough to get that ‘feel’.
It's all about the tires!!!!!!!
And let’s not forget about MOMENTUM. Like I told my sons when I taught them to drive (or at least tried to), MO can be your best friend or your worst enemy, again especially on snow
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
Hi,first of all,I dont know if this is appropriate to post here,so mods please feel free to delete it if so. I wanted to know if there are any websites which list new cars- not invoice or msrp-- but the exact car sale price. I know a lot of the sites do have this but the prices are high and definetely negotiable.So is there a site which has the best new car list prices which is a no haggle deal.As far as i know,,I can think of only carmax.So any others like that?
True. I'm in NW Jersey and our driveway was a sheet of ice this morning. I had the choice of my '99 Volvo s70 fwd with a set of Blizzaks or my '04 Dakota 4x4 Pickup with its allseason tires. Decided on the Volvo and did not have any problems. Also, the volvo has heated seats and lives in the garage while the pickup was covered in ice!
I love the blizzaks, esp since I was able to pick them up on eBay for $44 for a set of 4 on steel rims w/ hub caps. I looks like the prev. owner only used them sparingly as they appear brand new.
Randolph, right in the middle of Morris county. It had turned to rain by the time I left and the major roads weren't bad. Kids had a 90 minute delayed opening.
It sounds like jonagong's restaurant is in my neck of the woods and this is one tough,competitive area to be in that business. Only the strong survive.
My advise for what it's worth would be not to skimp. People don't mind paying more if the quality is there.
No offense taken. I am a little concerned that you wish to conduct two careers simultaneously. Years ago, my brother was in the restaurant business. He was on site 18 hours a day for the first three years. It was a grueling experience for him. Based on what I have learned here, many of these guys are selling cars 12 and 14 hours a day. It would seem next to impossible to do both.
I must say that you seem very mature and ambitious to be 21. I'm sure that you will do well, no matter what choice you make. If you listen to our regulars such as Moo, Isell, Boom, Driver, etc., you will amass a wealth of knowledge. The best part is that you can trust their opinions. Bon Appetite!
I know it sounds crazy, but I'm still sitting on the fence. There must be a reason for this. They say that old folks begin having trouble making decisions. I was pretty much ready to go until I began reading these posts about SC, side airbags, and finding out that Black Clearcoat brings top dollar. I certainly don't want "buyer's remorse" on my record...been there, done that. I'm going to let the Man Upstairs guide me through this. He always does.
I have a guy living in my attic too - I thought I was the only one!
If you don't HAVE to have a vehicle right now, then there's no rush to make a decision you might regret, especially on such a major purchase.
MODERATOR /ADMINISTRATOR Find me at kirstie_h@edmunds.com - or send a private message by clicking on my name. 2015 Kia Soul, 2021 Subaru Forester (kirstie_h), 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 (mr. kirstie_h) Review your vehicle
It isn't fair to you or loved ones not to have these features if you are buying a new car.
I agree, but, like someone said, “it’s what’s between the ears that count” and we better never forget that.
I don’t think anyone here has said SC/TC is not good but it isn’t everything. The experience that I had when it took control of my car proved that to me. However, I’m very reluctant to turn it off, even though there is a light that warns me when its off, because I’m just paranoid enough to think that if I turn it off for a given situation it won’t be there 2 seconds later when I will need it. I’ll learn to live with it just like I had to re-teach myself not to pump my breaks but rather let the ABS system do that for me and believe me that took some doing.
Knowing something about instrumentation, it’s all about how the stuff is calibrated. The auto makers won’t readily admit to this but they re-adjust those systems once they’ve obtained the empirical data from the millions of drivers out there, who are the real testers of those systems once they turn them lose on us. The manufactures don’t just relying on their initial development/track tests done during their infancy testing. The computer systems in the cars today allow for this “re-adjustment” with ease when a car is brought in for routine service that isn’t remotely related to why they came in. People get these “upgrades” all the time and if they aren’t told about it they don’t even know it was done. I’m sure our car biz guys can confirm this. I guess you can say, “what you don’t know won’t hurt you”.
If I didn’t know better (then again I probably don’t), I’d say you have quite a bit of stock in the companies that make these systems or the piece parts for the Stability/Traction Control Systems and you can’t wait until they are fully mandated.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
Speaking of fitzmall and prices, I did use that information when negotiating on my new MS3. Fitz had it priced at $21,704 including destination. What other fees do they add to that, because I can't see how they'd make a profit otherwise. When doing the numbers, I paid $22,299, which includes $299 doc fee. This equals approximately 2.3% profit - fairly skinny deal. It's still worth the extra money for me not to need to drive to MD for a new car, though. But, it was nice to have that information available.
Actually, nothing extra. There is a poster over in the Toyota Camry prices that just bought one a day ago. He reported a very positive buying experience, as all others that I've seen post in these forums. Buying out of state they waive their published 99 doc fee, because the buyer handles their own doc when they get back home.
And you as well, boom .. let's hope 2009 is better for you than 2008
haha, I see that more than one other person understands my natyive language.
To add to the restaurant/car selling career topic...
I will concur with most people here that it will be nearly impossible to do both. It's hard enough being in car sales and juggling your family time, let alone another job.
Murphy's Law always makes sure that when you have a dinner reserved right after work, that a sale and delivery will "pop up" at last minute to delay you, or a test drive will come in right when you're on your way out the door to go home, or an appointment will come 2 hours late and you'll be 4 hours behind on whatever you were planning after work.
If you can juggle the time then it's a good combination if you can cross-promote both businesses, especially if they're located close to each other. And quite a few people I know in the car biz who are succesful came from the resturant biz. But they did one at a time not both.
Anyhow good luck. Don't tell your hiring manager that you're plaaning on running a restuarant at the same time, as they might see that you won't be 100% commited to the car sales job because of other obligations.
"...I'm going to let the Man Upstairs guide me through this..."
You have a car salesman living on the next floor? :P
Seriously, if you really want this car go get it. You will never get a better deal than right now. Last year I was in a similar situation. The car I wanted was available,had the right options and was the exact color. The price was at the top end of what I could afford so I wavered, worried about what I would do if I spent my limit and I hated the car 6 months down the road. I finally went ahead with the purchase and was happy.
Just be sure you get it the way YOU want it. Don't skimp, don't compromise. Good luck.
Come back when the deal is finished and tell us all the details so everyone can tell you what you did wrong and how you got cheated.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
When I bought my Mitsu I called Fitzmall in Annapolis. They had a number of cars like the one I was shopping for $1000 under invoice. Unfortunately, none of them was equipped the way I wanted. They were willing to order but said the price would be invoice + $99 doc +$400 ad fee. This made it more expensive than the local dealer.
I asked why the price was $1K less on the in-stock models and was told "those internet cars are all lot queens that we're trying to get rid of".
I don't know how the other brands work it but the Mitsu dealer couldn't make it worth a 500 mile drive.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
It depends on when you got out. The USAA website lists these as groups eligible for membership:
Children of USAA members. Active-duty officers and enlisted personnel. National Guard and Selected Reserve officers and enlisted personnel. Officer candidates in commissioning programs (Academy, ROTC, OCS/OTS). Former military personnel: Retired officers and enlisted personnel. Former officers and enlisted personnel who separated on or after 01/01/1996.
USAA was established by 3 officers in the 1920's as a way around high insurance costs. It extended membership to the senior enlisted ranks (E-6+) in the mid 90s as indicated above by the date of eligibility for former service members. It now appears all enlisted grades are eligible. If you were still serving in 96 you should be eligible.
What's the hurry? The current economic climate is the worst that we've seen in a generation. There are far more new cars & trucks on lots across America than there are qualified buyers for them. It doesn't hurt your chances of getting a good deal that you're interested in a comparatively low-demand vehicle.
This is the definitive buyers' market. Relax & enjoy it. More promotions will be coming down the road any moment now.
Comments
I got in the old fashioned way - my dad was an officer. I'm thankful to both of you for your service to our country.
I heard this has now changed but they still wouldn't take me. You would think they would be happy to take my money?
I was hoping you would be one of the ones to respond, seeing as how you worked in both types of enviroments. Any tips for the interview in high end dealers?
I thought I would post my question here because I am going to sell cars just hadn't decided which type. Once I do though I will glady contribute stories from the "front lines", which it seems to me that this forum is lacking.
I believe IsellHondas is in the same region as me, Bellevue, WA, if this is so any advice or info. on the local area dealers.
Jonanong
With those fancy Italian shoes and all that bling? How could they ever doubt you?
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
I regularly get younger clientele in with fancy wear, nice watches and bling chains who unfortunately can't finance a ham sandwich due to horrible credit. They spent their credit (when they had it) and money on looking nice, instead of repaying what is owed.
2016 Audi A7 3.0T S Line, 2021 Subaru WRX
C'mon, who do you think is going to believe that someone tried to steal a VALIANT ?
I'll bet your next post is going to tell us someone swiped one of your neighbors Hyundais. :surprise:
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
I know THIS guy
2018 430i Gran Coupe
2016 Audi A7 3.0T S Line, 2021 Subaru WRX
Talk about needing spelling help.
Where's Richard when we need him?
I'll bet your next post is going to tell us someone swiped one of your neighbors Hyundais.
That was exactly our reaction! This was a five year old white Valiant wagon. Unless you needed to grab a slant six to put in another car it's the LAST thing you'd think of to steal.
We were actually disappointed the guy didn't succeed. He'd have done us a favor.
And you as well, boom .. let's hope 2009 is better for you than 2008.
2013 LX 570 2016 LS 460
" I think a better--and more snide--remark to isell's inquiry was that you were wearing your best pair of Focaccias, a huge "step up" from those "pedestrian" Guccis worn by Grand Merc.-owning poseurs in Seattle. "
Amen ,mon frere' . Per alf;)
"For manners are not idle, but the fruit Of loyal nature, and of noble mind." Lord Alfred Tennyson
But as to AMC's choice of names, Hornet, Gremlin, if you bought and later had mechanical problems, weren't you forewarned ?
Per Lord Alfred Tennyson's comments. Earned only, not given lightly. The value richard has contributed to this forum is without intelligent question. Post on mon sirs.
Wishing good spirits and kindly posts in 2009.
My dear, young friend you are but 21 in years. Though our forum is not constantly blessed with direct front line stories, we have much to offer on the various topics of life and living. You can learn many things from those of us who have lived 10-50 years beyond your brief visit on this planet. Partake of the fruits of our labors, the sweat of our brows, the tears of our anguish, the joys of our associations, and the sweet smells of our successes. People like Moo are not just salesmen. They are fathers, husbands, friends, and professionals who possess intelligence, sensitivity, and integrity. That is all part of what makes them good salesmen---not just the training seminars. Read all of the posts and digest the value in each.
We wish you great fortune as you venture out into the wonderful world of work. Remember: The product is important, but the diversity of the people is irreplaceable. If you achieve half of what the men here have achieved in life, you may then consider yourself a man among men. Our blessings go with you.
Richard
"Ring out the old, ring in the new,
Ring happy bells, across the snow:
The year is going, let him go;
Ring out the false, ring in the true.
FROM IN MEMORIAM
To stay on topic: Ford announced today that they have extended Employee Pricing and rebates until January 12th. GG, you were right. They did it. On January 13th, we could see other surprises?
Richard
Richard
Thank you for your wish of great fortune and may it fall upon me, looking up can't see anything yet.
The reason I wanted to get into car sales was to generate more income for my restaurant. I have everything in place I just need the advertising dollars. It's in a great location and all it needs is exposure. My thought process went something like this, " make money selling cars = more money in my pocket = more money in the restaurant = more passive income".
Thank you for your comment and I will try to learn more from all on this thread who have a couple more miles on the odometer and a couple more dings on the bumpers, which of course only adds character. Like you said if I can just follow their tread marks they left in life may I be half the car, ahem, men they are.
Jonanong
Wow, you must be full of energy to take on two jobs that require full time dedication to be successful.
Here's a suggestion, give out a few free meals at your restaurant as incentive to close the deal on the cars. People love those extras. You sell the car and promote your business at the same time.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
My dear, young friend you are but 21 in years. Though our forum is not constantly blessed with direct front line stories, we have much to offer on the various topics of life and living. You can learn many things from those of us who have lived 10-50 years beyond your brief visit on this planet. Partake of the fruits of our labors, the sweat of our brows, the tears of our anguish, the joys of our associations, and the sweet smells of our successes. . .
2018 430i Gran Coupe
If you are in search of "advertising" budget, try and be creative with your resources. Here are some suggestions:
1. Create coupons and give them to the concierge at local hotels. And either bring in some free food to the hotel staff or offer a spiff. Provide an incentive for them to refer guests to your restaurant.
2. Bring food over to radio stations. DJ's always eat during the air, and nothing like a free plug.
3. Same thing- offer to cater a rotary meeting or something similar.
4. Finally, cut other operational expenses in every area possible. Continue to get quotes on insurance, linens, and if the restaurant is slow - send excess staff home.
With a great attention to detail, you should find the advertising dollars you need.
good luck -with whichever your choose.
golic
Richard....so now that Ford has extended their incentives, do you plan on ordering a "black" Merc Gr Marquis? Or, are you still on the hunt for one on a dealer's lot? Stability control or not. the ones I've driven in inclement weather have no problem getting around. Then again, I think there's a good many of us here that have driven RWD cars, with mismatched retreads, no SC, bondo holding the body together, to no ill effect.
Those experiences should have taught us a thing or two about driving cars with no SC. IMHO, good tires are much more important than SC.
On the other hand, I got a call from my friend who bought the new Cobra. He was trying to get it from parked in front of his house, up his driveway, and into his garage. His driveway only has a slight incline, but the driveway is relatively long. And, we had a little ice and a little snow the last couple of days. Even with SC, he couldn't get it up the driveway and into the garage. SC came on, over and over. Still, no dice.
We ended up having to PUSH it into his garage.
It's all about the tires!!!!!!!
We ended up having to PUSH it into his garage.
It's all about the tires!!!!!!!
Tires are extremely important, Stability control and Traction Control won't do too much good without good tires BUT SC, TC 4WD or AWD won't help you at all on sheer ice. No wheels can get a grip. The SC is of use if the wheels are skidding out or need to read the lay of the land when you get yourself into a situation when you can't control where the car will go....our brains can't calibrate the speed the wheels need to turn to keep from losing control...but computers can. That's why SC will become mandatory, it is too good and too important not to have it.....sililar to ABS,.....keeps the wheels from locking up....computers calculate the speed to keep the wheels moving. It isn't fair to you or loved ones not to have these features if you are buying a new car.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
I haven't sold cars jonanong, but I have thought that I would like to give it a try. I have started a business though that has been successful, and as others have said, you can't do 2 different things at the same time, and especially 2 jobs that take up so much of your time. To be good you have to concentrate on doing one or the other.
The ideas given to increase sales in your resteraunt are good ones and IMO you should try to concentrate on that....might be better to increase business in a business you do have going (rather than spread yourself too thin).
We tried a lot of new restaurants when they put ads in local newspapers, special for the week at a low price (or buy one dinner get one free or 2nd for 1/2 price)...makes us go to a restaurant we might not have tried. The danger is many people will expect that price or they won't go in the future. But, if the restaurant is truly good I would go back and consider it a real good find.
I think what you do have going for you if you do go into car sales or continue in the restaurant biz, are;
You're young and ambitious which is not too common these days
You wanted information about car sales...you found this sight, so you did good research,
You stated your situation very clearly and wrote very concise polite emails to find information.
I think you will be successful for those reasons, but I would say concentrate on one career or business at a time.....unless you open a used car lot that has a restaurant on the premises...now there's an idea!
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
That was the whole point of the posts that thanked you. You REALLY did do something; it wasn’t “next to nothing”. Which is surely the reason that your neighbors came to your aid when that tree fell. Life is so much more than making money. It’s the bolts and nuts of it that makes it work and you proved that.
I think there's a good many of us here that have driven RWD cars, with mismatched retreads, no SC, bondo holding the body together, to no ill effect.
Yep, I remember those days. There’s nothing like the ‘feel’ of the car in the seat of your pants. Once you learned that ‘feel’ you pretty much knew how to drive, especially on snow. In fact, I’m pretty much convinced that until you’ve driven in snow it’s tough to get that ‘feel’.
It's all about the tires!!!!!!!
And let’s not forget about MOMENTUM. Like I told my sons when I taught them to drive (or at least tried to), MO can be your best friend or your worst enemy, again especially on snow
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
I wanted to know if there are any websites which list new cars- not invoice or msrp-- but the exact car sale price. I know a lot of the sites do have this but the prices are high and definetely negotiable.So is there a site which has the best new car list prices which is a no haggle deal.As far as i know,,I can think of only carmax.So any others like that?
I am doing something very similar...acting in movies to supplement my career as a waiter.
2013 LX 570 2016 LS 460
True. I'm in NW Jersey and our driveway was a sheet of ice this morning. I had the choice of my '99 Volvo s70 fwd with a set of Blizzaks or my '04 Dakota 4x4 Pickup with its allseason tires. Decided on the Volvo and did not have any problems. Also, the volvo has heated seats and lives in the garage while the pickup was covered in ice!
I love the blizzaks, esp since I was able to pick them up on eBay for $44 for a set of 4 on steel rims w/ hub caps.
Peeter
Yeah, you got a load of ice today. We are down below the ice line so we're just wet.
A problem every business owner shares with car sale people. If they grind at the dealer, they'll grind everywhere.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
My advise for what it's worth would be not to skimp. People don't mind paying more if the quality is there.
No offense taken. I am a little concerned that you wish to conduct two careers simultaneously. Years ago, my brother was in the restaurant business. He was on site 18 hours a day for the first three years. It was a grueling experience for him. Based on what I have learned here, many of these guys are selling cars 12 and 14 hours a day. It would seem next to impossible to do both.
I must say that you seem very mature and ambitious to be 21. I'm sure that you will do well, no matter what choice you make. If you listen to our regulars such as Moo, Isell, Boom, Driver, etc., you will amass a wealth of knowledge. The best part is that you can trust their opinions. Bon Appetite!
Richard
Richard
Richard
If you don't HAVE to have a vehicle right now, then there's no rush to make a decision you might regret, especially on such a major purchase.
MODERATOR /ADMINISTRATOR
Find me at kirstie_h@edmunds.com - or send a private message by clicking on my name.
2015 Kia Soul, 2021 Subaru Forester (kirstie_h), 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 (mr. kirstie_h)
Review your vehicle
I agree, but, like someone said, “it’s what’s between the ears that count” and we better never forget that.
I don’t think anyone here has said SC/TC is not good but it isn’t everything. The experience that I had when it took control of my car proved that to me. However, I’m very reluctant to turn it off, even though there is a light that warns me when its off, because I’m just paranoid enough to think that if I turn it off for a given situation it won’t be there 2 seconds later when I will need it. I’ll learn to live with it just like I had to re-teach myself not to pump my breaks but rather let the ABS system do that for me and believe me that took some doing.
Knowing something about instrumentation, it’s all about how the stuff is calibrated. The auto makers won’t readily admit to this but they re-adjust those systems once they’ve obtained the empirical data from the millions of drivers out there, who are the real testers of those systems once they turn them lose on us. The manufactures don’t just relying on their initial development/track tests done during their infancy testing. The computer systems in the cars today allow for this “re-adjustment” with ease when a car is brought in for routine service that isn’t remotely related to why they came in. People get these “upgrades” all the time and if they aren’t told about it they don’t even know it was done. I’m sure our car biz guys can confirm this. I guess you can say, “what you don’t know won’t hurt you”.
If I didn’t know better (then again I probably don’t), I’d say you have quite a bit of stock in the companies that make these systems or the piece parts for the Stability/Traction Control Systems and you can’t wait until they are fully mandated.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis V8 with Ultimate Package and '18 Legacy Limited 6 cyl
haha, I see that more than one other person understands my natyive language.
To add to the restaurant/car selling career topic...
I will concur with most people here that it will be nearly impossible to do both. It's hard enough being in car sales and juggling your family time, let alone another job.
Murphy's Law always makes sure that when you have a dinner reserved right after work, that a sale and delivery will "pop up" at last minute to delay you, or a test drive will come in right when you're on your way out the door to go home, or an appointment will come 2 hours late and you'll be 4 hours behind on whatever you were planning after work.
If you can juggle the time then it's a good combination if you can cross-promote both businesses, especially if they're located close to each other. And quite a few people I know in the car biz who are succesful came from the resturant biz. But they did one at a time not both.
Anyhow good luck. Don't tell your hiring manager that you're plaaning on running a restuarant at the same time, as they might see that you won't be 100% commited to the car sales job because of other obligations.
2016 Audi A7 3.0T S Line, 2021 Subaru WRX
You have a car salesman living on the next floor? :P
Seriously, if you really want this car go get it. You will never get a better deal than right now. Last year I was in a similar situation. The car I wanted was available,had the right options and was the exact color. The price was at the top end of what I could afford so I wavered, worried about what I would do if I spent my limit and I hated the car 6 months down the road. I finally went ahead with the purchase and was happy.
Just be sure you get it the way YOU want it. Don't skimp, don't compromise. Good luck.
Come back when the deal is finished and tell us all the details so everyone can tell you what you did wrong and how you got cheated.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Richard
When I bought my Mitsu I called Fitzmall in Annapolis. They had a number of cars like the one I was shopping for $1000 under invoice. Unfortunately, none of them was equipped the way I wanted. They were willing to order but said the price would be invoice + $99 doc +$400 ad fee. This made it more expensive than the local dealer.
I asked why the price was $1K less on the in-stock models and was told "those internet cars are all lot queens that we're trying to get rid of".
I don't know how the other brands work it but the Mitsu dealer couldn't make it worth a 500 mile drive.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
It depends on when you got out. The USAA website lists these as groups eligible for membership:
Children of USAA members.
Active-duty officers and enlisted personnel.
National Guard and Selected Reserve officers and enlisted personnel.
Officer candidates in commissioning programs (Academy, ROTC, OCS/OTS).
Former military personnel:
Retired officers and enlisted personnel.
Former officers and enlisted personnel who separated on or after 01/01/1996.
USAA was established by 3 officers in the 1920's as a way around high insurance costs. It extended membership to the senior enlisted ranks (E-6+) in the mid 90s as indicated above by the date of eligibility for former service members. It now appears all enlisted grades are eligible. If you were still serving in 96 you should be eligible.
This is the definitive buyers' market. Relax & enjoy it. More promotions will be coming down the road any moment now.