I just recently purchased an Aztek with almost those exact options, except no radio upgrade, but I did get the towing package. I purchased it at Sewell here in Dallas, so far a great experience from them BTW. My advise to you is this, do what I did, preorder exactly what you want. If you do this you will get what you want in about 6 weeks or so. You can actually purchase it 2 weeks before it comes in and get it before the $2002 offer is gone. My price came to $22,546 which is about $275 over invoice. I got that very easily also, I printed out the TMV from Edmunds and took it to the dealership. I told them I wanted this vehicle and I wanted to preorder it, and I told them that they aren't having to do any work here and it's a guaranteed sale so I'm going to pay $250 over invoice just so they can make a little. Well after just a little debate we agreed on $275 and that was it. I got %1.9 for 48 months and I've got 1700 miles on my Tek in the 2 weeks I've had it. I love it!
P.S. I can't recommend the towing package anymore highly than this! The towing package makes this car perform like a car, and it's the most valuable package available. You get tighter suspension and more includes automatic level control rear air suspension, 3500 lb. trailer tow capacity, wiring harness, engine oil cooler, high output alternator, heavy duty engine cooling system and auxiliary air compressor outlet in cargo area. A truly exceptional deal at just over $300!
I'm in Massachusetts. Seem slike all deals up here for the Aztek are awful, monthly payments of $572!!!! Not worth it for me. They all quote the same and they can't explain to me why a higher priced Trailblazer is cheaper to lease. Go figure.
2 reasons. Higher lease rate (no incentives yet) and lower residual. In a local ad, the Aztek costs $2K less but leases for more (both with zero down) than a Rendezvous. It's only a matter of time before the 02 Azteks have incentives. I think they are trying to make sure most of the 01 models are gone first though.
I think the price difference might be that Corey probably got the FWD in Texas, and Jose is looking at AWD in Massachusetts. TheTrailblazer is less to lease because of $1,000 GM Bonus and a 10% high residual value. Without the $1,000 the Trailblazer would be approximately the same as the Aztek.
With the rebate, negotiations and a pretty standard interest rate of 6.55% for 5 years, plus $1k down your payment would be around 460-470 that's not bad.
Yea I looked at a purchase but I'm not sure I want to BUY a car. Ok what does a lower residual mean? Lower resale value? Hmmmm Trailblazer is starting to look tempting.....
Residual is the end value of the car the leasing company uses to estimate it's worth at the end of the lease. Lower residual = higher lease cost. Given Aztek's limited appeal, resale is likely not as high as say a Trailblazer which has more demand. Hence it will cost relatively more to lease.
Just found this board, so here is my question. Has anyone tried to sell thier 2001 Aztek... resale must be awfull when GM redisigned this vehilce in it's second year. I cannot remember a car that was "made over" in just it's second year ( I have been driving for 22 years).!!
Why would Edmunds put the Aztek in the SUV category..is it not just a Minivan with 4wheel drive as a option..?? and I thought minivans were ugly..>>>!!
If you think classifying the Aztek is bad, try categorizing a "cross-over" vehicle like the Chrysler Pacifica - we had discussions started about it in Sedans, Vans, Wagons and SUVs.
With few exceptions, you're going to be faced with a big depreciation hit selling any one year old car. You can look at the True Market Value numbers to get some idea of how big a hit you'd take. Steve Host SUVs, Vans and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
Most people that own a Tek love it so selling it is a last resort I assume.
I have a question, what was your grammar teachers reaction when she saw your post??? It must have been awfull especially when you could've hit spell check....
Let's see, I guess you can't really classify the Aztek with anything else, but let's try! Hum... ok the Aztek is roughly the same size as the new CRV, so lets start there. Ok the Aztek has far more room and cargo space, can tow 3500 pounds, has a V6 with more power, comes with more standard features, it's quieter, it's more luxurious, but it's the closest cause it's about the same price and gets around the same gas mileage. Well maybe the RX300 is closer, it's about the same size, comes with most of the same options, can tow 3500 pounds, has more horsepower, same torque, less room and cargo space, worse mileage, just as quiet, just as smooth, overall very nice, but alas it cost $12k more. Hum... Maybe the Escape, well it's too small to have anywhere near the room, and well it's generally more expensive and gets worse mileage. Maybe the Acura MDX, it's based on the Odyssey minivan, so it's gotta be close. First it's larger, has a 3rd row seat for small children, gets worse mileage, still has less room and cargo space, it's louder, the engine has plenty of horsepower and torque, but you can't feel it cause it's about 700 pounds heavier than the Aztek, has most of the same features, only one major problem $40k!!! Well, maybe you can't really classify the Tek with anything else, so what do you do? I'm going to go ahead and make up a classification for the Aztek, and we can just refer it to it by that. Ok here it is we'll call this classification "The Best".
The aztek is hated by most. This is just plain fact. No owner will say anything to change anyone's mind. How it got that way... well we all have our theories.
It is my hope that the Aztek will much later be known as a car that started a great change. The Aztek is the first techno-futuristic production car. Every Japan auto show has had these styles as concepts, but Pontiac was the first to put them into production on a still new idea of a minivan/suv crossover platform. You may hate the Aztek, but it did break some ground. While Ford is entering its retro stage, GM seems to be going 21st century on us. The cadillacs followed with the Escalade and CTS.
If anyone's kept up with the detroit auto show, just look at the Ford Tonka concept. Look at the Acura mentioned above. It's not so much that these are influenced by the Aztek as it is they all have a common theme. That of exagerated proportions to look very sci-fi. I doubt the Aztek will be remembered as a huge influence of a genre of autos, but I do think it will be remembered as the first production model of the genre.
I have now about 1000 miles on the clock of my new 2002 Aztek and still like it a lot. However, I have some dislikes!
No. 1: I have the trunk drawer device, which as such, is very handy, but everything that sits on top of it slides around at every turn.
Does anybody have an idea/solution for this? Like applying some anti-slip coating of some sorts? No. 2: I have the 17" 235 tires that provide a great handling, but they are sitting so close to the outside of the vehicle that the sides are getting heavily soiled by the road spray, which leads to rather dirty pants legs during excitting the car. Are there any fender extension available that would fit this car?
For the slipping problem, go to the auto parts store and pick up some truck bed rubberizing spray paint. Take the cargo tray out, mask off the areas around the doors on the tray, and spray away. Let it dry and reinstall it. That will totally solve your problem.
As for fender extensions... I haven't seen anything.
getting ready to take "lulu" (my bright red 'tek) in for a 20,000 mile check up (bought in may... i drive alot) - thanks for posting the part numbers and info for the rear hatch problem which happens to me only when i am in freezing weather.
another thing.... sometimes i cannot get fuel into the tank. even when i am on empty. the gas will just shut off after putting in a half gallon - i have tried fudging with it - trying to let some air into the tank, trying to get the plastic over the round thing, with no luck. it will just click off like the tank is filled and you are trying to top off... i thought i had filled up the other day, and when i got in the car and started her up, it was only 3/4 full.... now, (for those of you who are saying, "dumb chick doesnt even know how to put gas in her car...") i have NEVER had this problem with any other car. has anyone here had the prob and what can i do to fix it????
also - still getting tons of thumbs up and people interested in what this car is all about. i should do a commercial the way that i have been out there promoting this vehicle. i think that the bright red paint with the sunroof and also ski racks on the top make it really cute. i am also in the ski/snowboarding/surf/music industry crowd, so maybe that makes a difference??? although alot of older folks like it too - especially women who need more room to carry stuff i.e. kids, etc.
p.s. i didnt like the look of the side cladding, but you know, i have seen people open their doors in the parking lot and slam them against my car, and you know what? NO DINGS, NO PAINT CHIPS, NO WORRIES. i am DIGGING this car.
drives FABULOUSLY in the snow and ice, and i can finally get up my road at my mountain home (it was tough with my old 2WD blazer even with cables... slid all over....) with no problem. i am SO EXCITED ABOUT THIS!!!!!!
I have this happen sometimes, too. It's not isolated to the Aztek. My '99 Kia Sephia had the same problem and my wife's Altima occasionally has it depending on where she fills up.
Best thing I can tell you is to put the nozzle all the way in, then pull it out about 3/4 of an inch. You should be able to fuel it safely that way without it shutting off.
As for the slipping, I've noticed this. I'll have to try the rubber lining stuff. I was taking a guitar amp to a store one day. It was an old heavy model. It slid around and left big deap scratches in the top. Is that like rhyno lining junk? How durable is it? Does it flake off? Dry out? Who's the best kind? It'd be cool to do the inside too(junk slides around in there).
As for the fuel, my brother has had cars that do that. It's annoying and only happens with some pumps. Best bet is to let the air in by not jamming it in all the way and putting it on the first click to start. I listen for a moment then add another click and push the nozzle the rest of the way in. I wouldn't recommend filling the whole thing on the first click or with the nozzle halfway out since it'll likely overflow, not that that happened to me:-(
As for the fender flares. It'd be nice. The 2001's 215 16" tires kick up tons of mud and dirt too. They stick out too. So far there is no Aztek specific aftermarket except for Manik's brush guard set and a single company that makes a very cheesy interior kit. We'll have to hope the 2002s sell really well so the aftermarket will get interested. I'm sure you could get some generic mud flaps, but I doubt they would do a lick of good. Until then, wash and wash often every warm chance you get.
Oh yeah, got my hatch fixed today. I started going to another dealer for service (the one I bought from was a joke). It took a while to get the part, but they kept me informed. They drove me home and picked me up an hour or so later when that was done and my console was replaced (they accidentally cracked it during a previous repair, it happens).
Checheche, why lulu?
My Tek is a black GT AWD, 1SC w/ moonroof, captains chairs, and towing. Her name is Maxx. First tek I saw was on Dark Angel and that chick's name is max (plus it looks like it came from Mad Max). Just curious why you picked lulu.
I've experienced the same problem a couple of times at my gas station. I works find if I do as gregeaston described earlier. The gas attendant explained it as the pump having some sort of sensor on the tip that makes contact with your gas tank opening.
Items sliding around on the rear tray has been an issue ever since early prototype (I was directly involved with releasing this product). GM considered releasing a rubber mat for the top, but didn't want to spend the money or clutter up the actuation of the doors. We had a local Rhino Liner dealer spray one set of doors in order to approve the appearance before the 2000 auto show, but I remember it scraping off after some abuse. The biggest problem is that the plastic material is a glass fiber filled Poly-propylene. Basically, it is extremely hard for anything to stick to this material.
Your best bet would be to buy an aftermarket rubber mat or a truck bed mat and cut it to size to fit. We did this a few times for mock-ups and it seems to work pretty good. There are some adhesives out there that will bond to PP and I can give you some leads if you are interested (expensive stuff).
Good luck & let us know if you do it.
p.s. I appreciate your logical and honest postings regarding this vehicle. Some people are furiously biased with their vehicles (to the point of nya! nya! playground immaturity) and some are just content with their purchases. It takes all types. I still think a low mileage 01 will be worth a fortune in 30 years.
It's not just Azteks that are "clicking off" early at gas stations. Not many have noticed but the evap limits for all vehicles have changed the last couple years. Look under virtually any new vehicle and you will see the fill neck has shrunk. Along with that, not all gas station pumps pump at the same speed under all conditions. Variables such as amounts of fuel in the stations tanks, amount of vehicles being fueled at a given time, temperature, in other words, any given day at any given station can bring different results.
Some times I don't know why I bother coming to the Edmunds site. But for the amount of grief that Aztek owners get, they do respond in a civil and controlled manner. It's not just this thread but it's the whole Town Hall. It was written in an earlier post, there's a playground mentality around here. Saw the ol' "resale value" theme has come around again, next week it will be crash tests.
I guess there is all kinds of options. I assume that double-sticky tape (that stuff is amazing) would work to hold down an aftermarket mat. I guess the issues for me would be durablility and to keep it looking clean and not cheap. A glued mat would look pretty cheap. So would a peeling or flaking spray.
Another option I've considered is buying some cheap black carpet and sewing a main cover (with doors cut out) and then pieces to cover the doors. Using some double sticky to hold it tight would work nicely. I know, I'm quite the little seamstress for a guy. I think the exterior trim tape will hold up to the heat while at the same time being completely removable should I choose to take it off. The pain would like in cutting the patterns, but it would look pretty nice.
ibthedog, I'm glad I'm not the only one to notice the heavy repetition in these forums. But if you want really one sided repetition there are some other forums (not edmunds) that shall remain nameless. It's not too bad, just a little miffy at times.
Do ya'll not also have the cargo net? My wife and I keep the cargo net in one of the cargo tray holds. When we need it, we just pull it out and strap it in. Also, we began with stuff in the hold on the passenger side, but found that we liked better to leave that empty so when we get groceries and such we can open the doors and set bags in there. We also keep a blanket in the back and that helps out from time to time, keeping things where they belong. I have to agree with some of the other posts, putting anything on it, whether a Rhino-type lining, some sort of adhesive, carpet, etc would be border line cheap and messy.
Well I just finish spraying a DupliColor rubberized truck bed coating onto my tray (taped seams and handles) It looks pretty good (same color as original plastic). I am presently curing the coating and have to see how it holds up and handles. I primed the surface with a citrus based (3M product) cleaner and grease remover that will not attack plastics.
Enfurio, what adhesive will bond to the tray? I am a labby at 3M and can get all sorts of adhesives and tapes, just point me into a direction and I can try it out and share my experience with the forum.
Noastar, it might be difficult to get a good adhesive bond to mot kinds of carpets using double sticky tape. The best way is to use spray-on carpet adhesive which would make that carpet a permanent fixture, but you need to prime the plastic for any kind of adhesive, it seems to have ridues from the mold release (might be silicon based) on it.
I think it is not possible to avoid some repetition. New members (like me)come on, and there is no way that one can read all 3463 previous messages. A decent search feature would help.
I think tool box rubber drawer mat would work really good. It is not very expensive. No need to stick it down. Easy to stash in the left side bin when you don't want it out. If anyone wants me to experiment say so and I'll give it a try with some leftover mat.
I'm not that adventurous to put a spray down on my tray. I have the complete interior of my Samurai coated with DuraBak rubber and don't feel that it is appropriate for the Aztek.
Enfurio, I have mostly good things to say about the Aztek in the 7000 miles and half year I have had it.
For the negatives: The armrests are placed poorly. Could have better (just a little bit,) access for the oil filter wrench. The rear hatch release thing.
For the positive: I like it and plan on keeping it for a long time. I don't see where the engine power issue is, I like high mpgs and find the Tek gets up the freeway limits quite well. Ok the truth, I just saw The Fast and the Furious, and I need some speed items in a hurry.
A few unsolicited quotes from passengers and drivers of my Aztek:
Don't even bother calling shotgun, I got the back.
Boy, it didn't take me long to get spoiled driving it.
my bright red aztek gt with sunroof just is so kicky and fun, kind of betty boopish in a modern way, and "lulu" just came to me... she looks like a lulu! ha ha! where do we come up with these things....???????
what kind of guitar amp? i also play and have taken that roll out black plastic container thing whatever its called, out of the car. i carry a full p.a. and 4 guitars, mics and stands, etc, on a regular basis, and didnt want to ruin that carrier, so took it out. every time i want to put it back in, i look at my gig schedule and if i have one within the next 2-3 nights, i leave the stuff in my shed.... alas, until i become a big rock star with other people lugging my gear in a truck, that slide out tray container will probably remain in my shed. oh well....... ;D
Hi, everyone. My fiancee and I just bought a 'Tek three days ago and are in love! I was dreaming about owning own for over a year, but never one with EVERYTHING! Luckily, we got an incredible deal on a fully loaded AWD Aztek GT complete with HUD, heated leather, etc. WOW! I'm in love. It's luxury mixed with far-out pontiac styling. By the way, we both love its looks, which only makes the complete package that much better. Looking forward to chatting with other owners about the vehicle's performance, versatility, etc. Hope everyone else is enjoying theirs as much as we are ours.
I'm hardly the aspiring musician. I used to play back in high school in a jazz band, but now I just pick it up to fiddle every now and then. My brother is the guitarist. I have an Ampeg 375watt bass amp with 4 tens and a tweeter. Pretty nice for someone who doesn't use it. My bass is a fender Jazz with strings so old they may be antiques.
Just about everyone I know is a musician though so I go with them every now and then to sam ash for purchase and repair.
Hi - Am new to this forum - have a 2001 'Tek GT w/sunroof - now have 12k miles on it and couldn't be happier with it. People fight to drive it in my household. Name of 'Bandmum' is 'cause my son's band uses my vehicle to tranport most of their gear (speakers, amps, guitars, drums, etc) to their gigs - but only in the eenings, 'cause it's mine by day. With the easily removable seats and slider tray/base, it works, it works, it works. It has saved them much cash in not having to rent a truck to haul their gear. My question is re: oil changes - am getting conflicting info here. My 'Tek has the 'feature' where it tells you when to do an oil change, in my case it happened at 6K miles.....dealership tells me not to pay attention to that, as it's just a gimmick and not to be taken seriously, that I should have oil changed every 3K regardless of what info board tells me. If that's the case - what's the point of this? So - please - any voices of experience on this subject? Thanks for any input here.
Well here's a topic that hasn't come up for a while...
There are conflicting opinions. The one thing we all agree on (I think) is that 3000 miles is too soon for today's oils in normal driving conditions. I stick by closer to 5000 miles, myself. And my computer in the dash tends to be pretty close to that.
The computer is pretty good at computing things that determine how the oil will break down. But it does fail to take into account any contaminants in the oil, etc...
My recommendation would be to check your oil regularly, especially after 3000 miles. And when it starts to get darker significantly, get it changed. After a while, you will just know, that 'okay, I've got 4500 miles or so on the oil, time to get it changed.'
But, as I said. Opinions differ and I'm sure there will be plenty of posts with different suggestions.
This year's rally will be based out of Hickories Park in Owego, NY. If it is anything like last year, Pontiac will be present with announcements, show cars, gifts and goodies. The campgrounds are even better than last year and we expect quite a turnout.
If you are interested in attending this year's rally, please email me at greg.easton@home.com for details.
You are a lab guy at 3M? You should be able to get these adhesives at a real good price then! Are you in the Detroit area? I was referring to a 3M product called Scotch Weld Structural Plastic Adhesive DP-8005. As you probably know, it comes in a two part tube and is mixed with a standard mixing nozzle. This stuff sticks to just about everything, but especially well to plastics. We used it alot when we were making prototype changes and modifications on the Aztek cargo tray. We got it at a local distributor and paid about $40 each for a small tube (~30 ml.). The stuff has a short shelf life and and requires at least a plunger and 1 mixing nozzle to use. We bought the "caulk" gun and everything and it worked very well. It also comes in a 55 gal. drum for several thousand dollars (you know, for those BIG projects).
Here is my update on the cargo tray de-slipping. The truck bed coating adhered very well to the plastic, and it looks good, almost better than the original plastic because of its deep black color. However, if one uses spray can applications, one cannot get the coating thick enough do do much slip prevention. I used 3 spray cans ($7.65 each) and achieved nothing but a nice look and a good base to work with for other coatings. In our local hardware store chain (Mennards) I found a can of carpet slip reducer spray. I coated the tray with this and that works great after it is cured, it feels almost like a thin silicon rubber film and is clear, and sure prevetns slipping.
enfurio, no I do not work in Detroit, I am in the main offices in St. Paul, MN. My concern with Scotch Weld is that it gets really hard and could crack if used in plane and thin applications. I would tend to use Gasket and Trim Adhesive for carpet applications on a surface that is cleaned well. I would apply a thin coat to both parts and let it dry for a few minutes and then apply the carpet under pressure.
Now I come with another question: My car came with the tray and a net that has six buckles. How and where does one use this net. I can understand that the four side buckles are used with the side tie-downs, but what does one do with the two bottom ones? And also, if the net is placed at the rear tie-downs, it is not possible to roll-out the tray, and the fronty tie-downs (the upper ones) are to far appart to work. I can't find anything in the user handbook that syas anything about this net. Here I am sitting with a perfectly (probably expensive) net and don't know how to use it. Any advise out there?
Just to avoid any confusion. triumpher and dschlei1 are one and the same person, just two different computers in different locations, but one and the same Aztek!
Motortrend had a new announcement that said the new 2002 Aztek would come with an option for XM radio. Does anyone know if you can get XM on a 2001? Obviously if you have the 6 disk changer and audio controls everywhere, buying an aftermarket head-unit would be crazy. Are there additions to existing head units out there, kinda like add ons that allow your current radio to pick them up or does anyone know how much it would cost to get a Pontiac XM radio installed? Just curious. Would be nice for us 2001s.
Here's a link. Browse around the site for details on which '02 cars will have XM Satellite Radio available (including the Aztek this fall). Steve Host SUVs, Vans and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
I researched this a bit back in December. XM radio hasn't existed prior to the last six months, well, at least the broadcasting part.
I did contact Bose and asked about it. I regret to inform our group that Bose radios can't be adapted for XM radio because of their make up. Even the after market radios being offered by Sony and others won't work with a Bose system.
I've listened to XM radio, and would probably have gone that route if I hadn't purchased a Bose system, which, BTW, is astounding in its sound reproduction without distortion.
Are you an Aztek owner??? If so, why the Bose. The upgraded 10spkr pioneer system is simply amazing. I really couldn't imagine every doing anything to it. For one it's tied into the HUD and the duplicate radio controls.
Tek owners,
Well, for all us Tek owners with 6disk changers and the premium system there is good news! I did some checking at the site and apparently the Pioneer 6disk changer systems are all upgradable! There is a small receiver that needs to be mounted and can be plugged directly into the existing deck. There is no "second screen" like an external CD changer has. Apparently it plugs into the back of the deck and works just like another radio band.
I'm going by the site's info at xmradio.com so forgive me if I'm off a bit. I do know our CD players are upgradable and runs off the existing radio screen, but how it comes up, whether it works with the HUD, or how it is navigated is still unknown. Cost is probably around 300-350 to upgrade with the receiver and an antenna. I think the receiver will fit snug into the glove box.
Pretty cool. I emailed them some questions to see how it actually interfaces and works with the factory radio, but if all is good I think I'll buy!
When: Saturday Jan 19 Where: Pine Barrens (Lebanon State Forest, NJ) Meet: Intersection of Rte 70 and 72 near Whiting, NJ Time: 10:45-11am Who: AWD/4wd Vehicles (no 2wd please) What: Off-road Trail Ride through the barrens, will be fun for all, we encourage Subarus, Rav4s, CRVs, Isuzus, Highlanders, 4-runners, Santa Fe, Explorers, etc.
Bravo to Pontiac for restyling the Aztek and removing the gray lower body cladding. The Aztek looks OK now. Now if only Pontiac and GM would remove the plastic lower body cladding on all vehicles.
Funny how everyone dislikes the cladding on GM vehicles, but fails to notice that it is on a whole lot of vehicles, including Ford's latest well polished piece of junk, the Escape, the Volvo Cross Country, the Nissan Xterra, etc...
Cladding is here to stay, folks. It cuts down on parking lot dings from morons who can't seem to control their doors. It deflects small stones from the road that would ding the paint, and protects the car from sand and salt damage in the winter.
Pontiac made a strange decision to PAINT the cladding. Now the paint is just gonna chip anyways.
Comments
P.S. I can't recommend the towing package anymore highly than this! The towing package makes this car perform like a car, and it's the most valuable package available. You get tighter suspension and more includes automatic level control rear air suspension, 3500 lb. trailer tow capacity, wiring harness, engine oil cooler, high output alternator, heavy duty engine cooling system and auxiliary air compressor outlet in cargo area. A truly exceptional deal at just over $300!
Ok what does a lower residual mean? Lower resale value?
Hmmmm Trailblazer is starting to look tempting.....
Has anyone tried to sell thier 2001 Aztek...
resale must be awfull when GM redisigned this vehilce in it's second year. I cannot remember a car that was "made over" in just it's second year ( I have been driving for 22 years).!!
With few exceptions, you're going to be faced with a big depreciation hit selling any one year old car. You can look at the True Market Value numbers to get some idea of how big a hit you'd take.
Steve
Host
SUVs, Vans and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
I have a question, what was your grammar teachers reaction when she saw your post??? It must have been awfull especially when you could've hit spell check....
Let's see, I guess you can't really classify the Aztek with anything else, but let's try! Hum... ok the Aztek is roughly the same size as the new CRV, so lets start there. Ok the Aztek has far more room and cargo space, can tow 3500 pounds, has a V6 with more power, comes with more standard features, it's quieter, it's more luxurious, but it's the closest cause it's about the same price and gets around the same gas mileage. Well maybe the RX300 is closer, it's about the same size, comes with most of the same options, can tow 3500 pounds, has more horsepower, same torque, less room and cargo space, worse mileage, just as quiet, just as smooth, overall very nice, but alas it cost $12k more. Hum... Maybe the Escape, well it's too small to have anywhere near the room, and well it's generally more expensive and gets worse mileage. Maybe the Acura MDX, it's based on the Odyssey minivan, so it's gotta be close. First it's larger, has a 3rd row seat for small children, gets worse mileage, still has less room and cargo space, it's louder, the engine has plenty of horsepower and torque, but you can't feel it cause it's about 700 pounds heavier than the Aztek, has most of the same features, only one major problem $40k!!! Well, maybe you can't really classify the Tek with anything else, so what do you do? I'm going to go ahead and make up a classification for the Aztek, and we can just refer it to it by that. Ok here it is we'll call this classification "The Best".
It is my hope that the Aztek will much later be known as a car that started a great change. The Aztek is the first techno-futuristic production car. Every Japan auto show has had these styles as concepts, but Pontiac was the first to put them into production on a still new idea of a minivan/suv crossover platform. You may hate the Aztek, but it did break some ground. While Ford is entering its retro stage, GM seems to be going 21st century on us. The cadillacs followed with the Escalade and CTS.
If anyone's kept up with the detroit auto show, just look at the Ford Tonka concept. Look at the Acura mentioned above. It's not so much that these are influenced by the Aztek as it is they all have a common theme. That of exagerated proportions to look very sci-fi. I doubt the Aztek will be remembered as a huge influence of a genre of autos, but I do think it will be remembered as the first production model of the genre.
See the Latest from the L.A. auto show
Steve
Host
SUVs, Vans and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
No. 1:
I have the trunk drawer device, which as such, is very handy, but everything that sits on top of it slides around at every turn.
Does anybody have an idea/solution for this? Like applying some anti-slip coating of some sorts?
No. 2:
I have the 17" 235 tires that provide a great handling, but they are sitting so close to the outside of the vehicle that the sides are getting heavily soiled by the road spray, which leads to rather dirty pants legs during excitting the car. Are there any fender extension available that would fit this car?
As for fender extensions... I haven't seen anything.
getting ready to take "lulu" (my bright red 'tek) in for a 20,000 mile check up (bought in may... i drive alot) - thanks for posting the part numbers and info for the rear hatch problem which happens to me only when i am in freezing weather.
another thing.... sometimes i cannot get fuel into the tank. even when i am on empty. the gas will just shut off after putting in a half gallon - i have tried fudging with it - trying to let some air into the tank, trying to get the plastic over the round thing, with no luck. it will just click off like the tank is filled and you are trying to top off... i thought i had filled up the other day, and when i got in the car and started her up, it was only 3/4 full.... now, (for those of you who are saying, "dumb chick doesnt even know how to put gas in her car...") i have NEVER had this problem with any other car. has anyone here had the prob and what can i do to fix it????
also - still getting tons of thumbs up and people interested in what this car is all about. i should do a commercial the way that i have been out there promoting this vehicle. i think that the bright red paint with the sunroof and also ski racks on the top make it really cute. i am also in the ski/snowboarding/surf/music industry crowd, so maybe that makes a difference??? although alot of older folks like it too - especially women who need more room to carry stuff i.e. kids, etc.
p.s. i didnt like the look of the side cladding, but you know, i have seen people open their doors in the parking lot and slam them against my car, and you know what? NO DINGS, NO PAINT CHIPS, NO WORRIES. i am DIGGING this car.
drives FABULOUSLY in the snow and ice, and i can finally get up my road at my mountain home (it was tough with my old 2WD blazer even with cables... slid all over....) with no problem. i am SO EXCITED ABOUT THIS!!!!!!
xo che HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Best thing I can tell you is to put the nozzle all the way in, then pull it out about 3/4 of an inch. You should be able to fuel it safely that way without it shutting off.
BTW. Mine has 15k miles and no dings too!
As for the fuel, my brother has had cars that do that. It's annoying and only happens with some pumps. Best bet is to let the air in by not jamming it in all the way and putting it on the first click to start. I listen for a moment then add another click and push the nozzle the rest of the way in. I wouldn't recommend filling the whole thing on the first click or with the nozzle halfway out since it'll likely overflow, not that that happened to me:-(
As for the fender flares. It'd be nice. The 2001's 215 16" tires kick up tons of mud and dirt too. They stick out too. So far there is no Aztek specific aftermarket except for Manik's brush guard set and a single company that makes a very cheesy interior kit. We'll have to hope the 2002s sell really well so the aftermarket will get interested. I'm sure you could get some generic mud flaps, but I doubt they would do a lick of good. Until then, wash and wash often every warm chance you get.
Oh yeah, got my hatch fixed today. I started going to another dealer for service (the one I bought from was a joke). It took a while to get the part, but they kept me informed. They drove me home and picked me up an hour or so later when that was done and my console was replaced (they accidentally cracked it during a previous repair, it happens).
Checheche, why lulu?
My Tek is a black GT AWD, 1SC w/ moonroof, captains chairs, and towing. Her name is Maxx. First tek I saw was on Dark Angel and that chick's name is max (plus it looks like it came from Mad Max). Just curious why you picked lulu.
Your best bet would be to buy an aftermarket rubber mat or a truck bed mat and cut it to size to fit. We did this a few times for mock-ups and it seems to work pretty good. There are some adhesives out there that will bond to PP and I can give you some leads if you are interested (expensive stuff).
Good luck & let us know if you do it.
p.s.
I appreciate your logical and honest postings regarding this vehicle. Some people are furiously biased with their vehicles (to the point of nya! nya! playground immaturity) and some are just content with their purchases. It takes all types. I still think a low mileage 01 will be worth a fortune in 30 years.
Some times I don't know why I bother coming to the Edmunds site. But for the amount of grief that Aztek owners get, they do respond in a civil and controlled manner. It's not just this thread but it's the whole Town Hall. It was written in an earlier post, there's a playground mentality around here. Saw the ol' "resale value" theme has come around again, next week it will be crash tests.
I guess there is all kinds of options. I assume that double-sticky tape (that stuff is amazing) would work to hold down an aftermarket mat. I guess the issues for me would be durablility and to keep it looking clean and not cheap. A glued mat would look pretty cheap. So would a peeling or flaking spray.
Another option I've considered is buying some cheap black carpet and sewing a main cover (with doors cut out) and then pieces to cover the doors. Using some double sticky to hold it tight would work nicely. I know, I'm quite the little seamstress for a guy. I think the exterior trim tape will hold up to the heat while at the same time being completely removable should I choose to take it off. The pain would like in cutting the patterns, but it would look pretty nice.
ibthedog, I'm glad I'm not the only one to notice the heavy repetition in these forums. But if you want really one sided repetition there are some other forums (not edmunds) that shall remain nameless. It's not too bad, just a little miffy at times.
Enfurio, what adhesive will bond to the tray? I am a labby at 3M and can get all sorts of adhesives and tapes, just point me into a direction and I can try it out and share my experience with the forum.
Noastar, it might be difficult to get a good adhesive bond to mot kinds of carpets using double sticky tape. The best way is to use spray-on carpet adhesive which would make that carpet a permanent fixture, but you need to prime the plastic for any kind of adhesive, it seems to have ridues from the mold release (might be silicon based) on it.
I think it is not possible to avoid some repetition. New members (like me)come on, and there is no way that one can read all 3463 previous messages. A decent search feature would help.
I am assured that Edmund's will be revamping the search engine though I don't have a definite timescale quite yet.
tidester
Host
SUVs
I'm not that adventurous to put a spray down on my tray. I have the complete interior of my Samurai coated with DuraBak rubber and don't feel that it is appropriate for the Aztek.
Enfurio,
I have mostly good things to say about the Aztek in the 7000 miles and half year I have had it.
For the negatives:
The armrests are placed poorly.
Could have better (just a little bit,) access for the oil filter wrench.
The rear hatch release thing.
For the positive:
I like it and plan on keeping it for a long time.
I don't see where the engine power issue is, I like high mpgs and find the Tek gets up the freeway limits quite well.
Ok the truth, I just saw The Fast and the Furious, and I need some speed items in a hurry.
A few unsolicited quotes from passengers and drivers of my Aztek:
Don't even bother calling shotgun, I got the back.
Boy, it didn't take me long to get spoiled driving it.
Cool truck.
Later,
Dan
Go Packers!
my bright red aztek gt with sunroof just is so
kicky and fun, kind of betty boopish in a modern
way, and "lulu" just came to me... she looks
like a lulu! ha ha! where do we come up with these things....???????
what kind of guitar amp? i also play and have
taken that roll out black plastic container thing whatever its called, out of the car. i carry a full p.a. and 4 guitars, mics and stands, etc, on a regular basis, and didnt want to ruin that carrier, so took it out. every time i want to put it back in, i look at my gig schedule and if i have one within the next 2-3 nights, i leave the stuff in my shed.... alas, until i become a big rock star with other people lugging my gear in a truck, that slide out tray container will probably remain in my shed. oh well....... ;D
che
I'm in love. It's luxury mixed with far-out pontiac styling. By the way, we both love its looks, which only makes the complete package that much better. Looking forward to chatting with other owners about the vehicle's performance, versatility, etc.
Hope everyone else is enjoying theirs as much as we are ours.
Troy and Donna
Just about everyone I know is a musician though so I go with them every now and then to sam ash for purchase and repair.
My question is re: oil changes - am getting conflicting info here. My 'Tek has the 'feature' where it tells you when to do an oil change, in my case it happened at 6K miles.....dealership tells me not to pay attention to that, as it's just a gimmick and not to be taken seriously, that I should have oil changed every 3K regardless of what info board tells me.
If that's the case - what's the point of this?
So - please - any voices of experience on this subject? Thanks for any input here.
There are conflicting opinions. The one thing we all agree on (I think) is that 3000 miles is too soon for today's oils in normal driving conditions. I stick by closer to 5000 miles, myself. And my computer in the dash tends to be pretty close to that.
The computer is pretty good at computing things that determine how the oil will break down. But it does fail to take into account any contaminants in the oil, etc...
My recommendation would be to check your oil regularly, especially after 3000 miles. And when it starts to get darker significantly, get it changed. After a while, you will just know, that 'okay, I've got 4500 miles or so on the oil, time to get it changed.'
But, as I said. Opinions differ and I'm sure there will be plenty of posts with different suggestions.
If you are interested in attending this year's rally, please email me at greg.easton@home.com for details.
enfurio, no I do not work in Detroit, I am in the main offices in St. Paul, MN. My concern with Scotch Weld is that it gets really hard and could crack if used in plane and thin applications. I would tend to use Gasket and Trim Adhesive for carpet applications on a surface that is cleaned well. I would apply a thin coat to both parts and let it dry for a few minutes and then apply the carpet under pressure.
Now I come with another question: My car came with the tray and a net that has six buckles. How and where does one use this net. I can understand that the four side buckles are used with the side tie-downs, but what does one do with the two bottom ones? And also, if the net is placed at the rear tie-downs, it is not possible to roll-out the tray, and the fronty tie-downs (the upper ones) are to far appart to work. I can't find anything in the user handbook that syas anything about this net.
Here I am sitting with a perfectly (probably expensive) net and don't know how to use it. Any advise out there?
Steve
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SUVs, Vans and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
I did contact Bose and asked about it. I regret to inform our group that Bose radios can't be adapted for XM radio because of their make up. Even the after market radios being offered by Sony and others won't work with a Bose system.
I've listened to XM radio, and would probably have gone that route if I hadn't purchased a Bose system, which, BTW, is astounding in its sound reproduction without distortion.
Are you an Aztek owner??? If so, why the Bose. The upgraded 10spkr pioneer system is simply amazing. I really couldn't imagine every doing anything to it. For one it's tied into the HUD and the duplicate radio controls.
Tek owners,
Well, for all us Tek owners with 6disk changers and the premium system there is good news! I did some checking at the site and apparently the Pioneer 6disk changer systems are all upgradable! There is a small receiver that needs to be mounted and can be plugged directly into the existing deck. There is no "second screen" like an external CD changer has. Apparently it plugs into the back of the deck and works just like another radio band.
I'm going by the site's info at xmradio.com so forgive me if I'm off a bit. I do know our CD players are upgradable and runs off the existing radio screen, but how it comes up, whether it works with the HUD, or how it is navigated is still unknown. Cost is probably around 300-350 to upgrade with the receiver and an antenna. I think the receiver will fit snug into the glove box.
Pretty cool. I emailed them some questions to see how it actually interfaces and works with the factory radio, but if all is good I think I'll buy!
When: Saturday Jan 19
Where: Pine Barrens (Lebanon State Forest, NJ)
Meet: Intersection of Rte 70 and 72 near Whiting, NJ
Time: 10:45-11am
Who: AWD/4wd Vehicles (no 2wd please)
What: Off-road Trail Ride through the barrens, will be fun for all, we encourage Subarus, Rav4s, CRVs, Isuzus, Highlanders, 4-runners, Santa Fe, Explorers, etc.
****Details****
Cladding is here to stay, folks. It cuts down on parking lot dings from morons who can't seem to control their doors. It deflects small stones from the road that would ding the paint, and protects the car from sand and salt damage in the winter.
Pontiac made a strange decision to PAINT the cladding. Now the paint is just gonna chip anyways.