Did you recently take on (or consider) a loan of 84 months or longer on a car purchase?
A reporter would like to speak with you about your experience; please reach out to PR@Edmunds.com by 7/22 for details.
Options

Midsize Sedans 2.0

1438439441443444544

Comments

  • nyccarguynyccarguy Member Posts: 17,491
    Got my 1st 500 + mile tank out of the Legacy. 522.7 miles (28.3 mpg). I needed 523.7 miles. Ran out of gas. Had to get towed off the highway to the gas station. I'm a complete moron, I know.

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

  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,336
    I don't know what to say. Go to your room. And no TV.

    If my daughter did that, I would take the car away and never give it back!

    Impressive range though.

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

  • nyccarguynyccarguy Member Posts: 17,491
    @stickguy‌

    Go read the full version on "buying & selling." I think you'll take my iPad & cell phone away too:)

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

  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,336
    I read it. I hope you learned something from this experience. But somehow I doubt it!

    range pushers are an alien life form that I just don't understand.

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

  • nyccarguynyccarguy Member Posts: 17,491
    I did it once. Never again.

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

  • MichaellMichaell Moderator Posts: 262,160
    I think the last time I ran out of gas was in a rental car on a business trip in CA. Managed to get almost all the way down the off ramp that led to my hotel - grrr.

    But - no low fuel warning light on that car. I wanna say it was a Sebring convertible.

    Edmunds Price Checker
    Edmunds Lease Calculator
    Did you get a good deal? Be sure to come back and let us know! Post a pic of your new purchase or lease!


    MODERATOR

    2015 Subaru Outback 3.6R / 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX Prestige

  • ab348ab348 Member Posts: 20,278
    Michaell said:

    I think the last time I ran out of gas was in a rental car on a business trip in CA. Managed to get almost all the way down the off ramp that led to my hotel - grrr.

    But - no low fuel warning light on that car. I wanna say it was a Sebring convertible.

    Similar story here - the one and only time I did it was in 1983 on a trip to Florida. We had a rental car, an AMC Concord (!) and I was driving down a street in St. Petersburg when it just quit running. I realized I was out of gas - unfamiliar with the car, hadn't checked the gauge, no warning light. Through sheer luck there was a station just ahead on my side of the road that I was able to coast into, right to the pumps. What are the odds?

    2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6

  • backybacky Member Posts: 18,949
    nyccarguy said:

    Got my 1st 500 + mile tank out of the Legacy. 522.7 miles (28.3 mpg). I needed 523.7 miles. Ran out of gas. Had to get towed off the highway to the gas station. I'm a complete moron, I know.

    You may be pleased to know that CR has ranked the new Legacy its top mid-sized sedan, with Camry, Accord, and (!) Malibu also scoring highly. They also like the Passat 1.8T. Interestingly, they lowered their rating on the new Sonata 2.4L, basically calling it "boring", noting the new styling is not as adventurous as the prior Sonata. Kinda a weird commentary, I think, given styling is subjective and I wouldn't call cars like the Legacy, Accord, and Malibu "adventurous" in their styling. Also, they tested only the 2.4L version of the Sonata, while they tested multiple powertrains on most other mid-sizers.

    They really slammed the new 200 though. It got a little higher score than the old 200, but they didn't find much to like about it.
  • ab348ab348 Member Posts: 20,278
    edited November 2014
    backy said:



    You may be pleased to know that CR has ranked the new Legacy its top mid-sized sedan, with Camry, Accord, and (!) Malibu also scoring highly. They also like the Passat 1.8T. Interestingly, they lowered their rating on the new Sonata 2.4L, basically calling it "boring", noting the new styling is not as adventurous as the prior Sonata. Kinda a weird commentary, I think, given styling is subjective and I wouldn't call cars like the Legacy, Accord, and Malibu "adventurous" in their styling. Also, they tested only the 2.4L version of the Sonata, while they tested multiple powertrains on most other mid-sizers.

    They really slammed the new 200 though. It got a little higher score than the old 200, but they didn't find much to like about it.

    Interesting. The Canadian car site autos.ca did a comparo this week of the Subaru and 200, both AWD, and thought the 200 was the choice. Of course all the Subaru cult members there went nuts on the comments. :) Maybe their conclusion was just to drive clicks on the site - I suspect they do that sometimes.

    The new Sonata has been widely seen as a step backwards from the previous one - slower, less interesting looking, boring. Will be interesting to see what Hyundai does if sales start to slump after the new wears off.

    2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6

  • Mr_ShiftrightMr_Shiftright Member Posts: 64,481
    Not at all--in engineering terms, this is called "test to failure". Now you have scientifically established the range of your vehicle. I mean, early astronauts also had a little hard luck sometimes, too.
    nyccarguy said:

    Got my 1st 500 + mile tank out of the Legacy. 522.7 miles (28.3 mpg). I needed 523.7 miles. Ran out of gas. Had to get towed off the highway to the gas station. I'm a complete moron, I know.

  • backybacky Member Posts: 18,949
    ab348 said:


    The new Sonata has been widely seen as a step backwards from the previous one - slower, less interesting looking, boring.

    Less interesting looking than the Mazda6 for sure. Less interesting looking than cars like the Legacy, Accord, Passat, Malibu, Altima, Camry? I don't think so. The 2.0T Sport is less quick than the 2014 car, but is it quick enough for 95% of mid-sized sedan buyers? Some people seem to overlook the improvements for 2015 in FE (especially with the 1.6T Eco), interior room, quietness, ergonomics, safety, convenience, ride & handling, and engine tractability. Edmunds.com didn't overlook these things in rating the Sonata "A" overall.

    Toyota has sold lots of Camrys to buyers looking for a solid, quiet, roomy, smooth-riding mid-sized car. "Boring" wasn't an issue there.
  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,336
    I think the new Sonota looks nice. Though I also thought the old one was overdone, and it impacted visibility.

    I have not tried the new one, or even gotten to sit in it, so will have to reserve judgement on it until I do. I will look at one before the end of the year to see if it should go on my consideration short list!

    I have noticed a few dealers advertising aggressive lease deals and big discounts on the 15s already, so that might not be a good sign.

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

  • brian125brian125 Member Posts: 5,244
    edited November 2014
    ryster said:

    brian125 said:

    ab348 said:

    I don't think of a Sonata or a Kia as a vehicle I would want to count on for 10 years of service.


    @backy and @stickguy summed it up best. Just to chime in


    I think all car companies should adopt a warranty program like these 2 companies. Stand behind your product bumper to bumper for atleast 5 years and 10yr on powertrain. This is one good reason 2 buy either a Kia or Hyundai. . The other is both are making much better vehicles today.





    There are a lot of exceptions in Hyundai's 5yr/60K "bumper to bumper" warranty. Paint is only 3yr/36K miles. Radio/Navigation/Bluetooth systems are 3yr/36K. Adjustments are covered 1yr/12K miles. A/C refrigerant level is covered for 1yr. Battery is covered for 2yrs for 100% replacement, 3yrs prorated, then not covered at all. Light bulbs, etc are 1yr.12K miles.

    I now have 61,200 miles on my 2011 Hyundai Sonata. Aside from 5 recalls, I had to have the thermostat and thermostat housing in the engine replaced under warranty. The car has its quirks and I am not sure it could go past 75,000 miles without some sort of major problem. The transmission shifts rough sometimes, the engine is burning oil at the rate of 1qt every 1000 miles, and the number of odd mechanical and structural noises is growing quickly.

    When the right deal comes along in the next few months, I plan to trade it in.

    You are correct, this is directly from the Hyundai website:

    5-YEAR/60,000-MILE NEW VEHICLE LIMITED WARRANTY

    Covers repair or replacement of any component manufactured or originally installed by Hyundai that is defective in material or factory workmanship, under normal use and maintenance.

    The following components are covered for time and mileage limits indicated:
    • Radio and audio systems (i.e., radio, compact disc player, DVD player, navigation system, and Bluetooth®): 3 years/36,000 miles
    • Paint: 3 years/36,000 miles
    • Battery: 3 years/unlimited miles (100% covered 2 years/unlimited miles; after 2 years and within 3 years, 25% cost of battery and 100% labor cost covered)
    • Air conditioner refrigerant charge: 1 year/unlimited miles
    • Adjustments: 1 year/12,000 miles
    • Wear items: 1 year/12,000 miles (e.g., belts, brake pads and linings, clutch linings, filters, wiper blades, bulbs, fuses)

    Still the best warranty. I'm assuming Honda, Toyota, Nissan cover wear items for 1year also?

    23 Telluride SX-P X-Line, 23 Camry XSE

  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,336
    I just read that midsize test in CR. they overall liked the Sonata. No, it was not "exciting" (though these are family basic sedans so what do you expect?) But it worked well, and got very good MPG relative to the others.

    but, they listed the offsets to more sedate styling. More room, especially in the back seat, and better visibility. Which seems like a solid trade-off to me!

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

  • nyccarguynyccarguy Member Posts: 17,491

    Not at all--in engineering terms, this is called "test to failure". Now you have scientifically established the range of your vehicle. I mean, early astronauts also had a little hard luck sometimes, too.

    nyccarguy said:

    Got my 1st 500 + mile tank out of the Legacy. 522.7 miles (28.3 mpg). I needed 523.7 miles. Ran out of gas. Had to get towed off the highway to the gas station. I'm a complete moron, I know.


    Thank-you @Mr_Shiftright‌

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

  • [Deleted User][Deleted User] Posts: 0
    edited November 2014
    stickguy said:

    I just read that midsize test in CR. they overall liked the Sonata. No, it was not "exciting" (though these are family basic sedans so what do you expect?) But it worked well, and got very good MPG relative to the others.

    but, they listed the offsets to more sedate styling. More room, especially in the back seat, and better visibility. Which seems like a solid trade-off to me!

    I agree. After seeing the new Sonata on the road, it doesn't look bad at all. It is a little more blocky...basically the same look as the Subaru Legacy. Apparently the smaller turbo and reduced output improve drivability and in the end will be more reliable with less stress on the motor.

    In other news, I have been sick with Pneumonia, and as a bonus I am passing a kidney stone. No fun at all. The pain is unbelievable.

    As far as fuel economy goes, I changed my driving style. I no longer dig deep on the gas pedal, and in general I stick to not more than 7 mph over the speed limit, and I use the cruise control constantly. I am amazed at how much better my F/E has been. I am at 23.8 mpg. That is right on the 24 mpg city that is on the Monroney sticker. So, the problem was not so much the congestion.... the problem was the driver. It is really hard to change and drive slower, but after getting 2 tickets in one week, I am now a quick study on keeping it from happening again,.
  • stevedebistevedebi Member Posts: 4,098
    edited November 2014
    nyccarguy said:

    Got my 1st 500 + mile tank out of the Legacy. 522.7 miles (28.3 mpg). I needed 523.7 miles. Ran out of gas. Had to get towed off the highway to the gas station. I'm a complete moron, I know.

    Way back in time, I had a 1989 Hyundai Excel. Great engine by Mitsubishi, lousy everything else. That car got 30 MPG no matter what I did, in town or out. I regularly went from LA to Albuquerque, and I had a certain stop at Radiator Springs CA - because that was as far as the car would go on a tank. One night I missed that turn, and it was 30 miles to the next exit. When I filled up, I discovered there was .3 gallons left. Never missed that turn again!

    Eventually got rid of the Excel in favor of a Ranger with stick, 4.0L, and limited slip rear end. What a difference! And that one would do 23 on the road, as I recall.
  • [Deleted User][Deleted User] Posts: 0
    edited November 2014
    Ryster said:

    There are a lot of exceptions in Hyundai's 5yr/60K "bumper to bumper" warranty. Paint is only 3yr/36K miles. Radio/Navigation/Bluetooth systems are 3yr/36K. Adjustments are covered 1yr/12K miles. A/C refrigerant level is covered for 1yr. Battery is covered for 2yrs for 100% replacement, 3yrs prorated, then not covered at all. Light bulbs, etc are 1yr.12K miles.

    I now have 61,200 miles on my 2011 Hyundai Sonata. Aside from 5 recalls, I had to have the thermostat and thermostat housing in the engine replaced under warranty. The car has its quirks and I am not sure it could go past 75,000 miles without some sort of major problem. The transmission shifts rough sometimes, the engine is burning oil at the rate of 1qt every 1000 miles, and the number of odd mechanical and structural noises is growing quickly.

    When the right deal comes along in the next few months, I plan to trade it in.


    Response-

    My A/C died on my Optima that is 3 year old and has 30k on the odometer. They refilled it and added dye to make sure they can track a leak at my next oil change. The oil change and the A/C service are free of charge. They also replaced my battery when it failed the charge test, also free of charge. I bought the extended b2b warranty for 10 years 100k. I know some of you don't believe in them, but I think it was $900 well spent even if it is just for POM. Ryster, I wonder if it is just your dealer nickel and dining you. I know a neighbor with a 2012 Sonata and he uses the Hyundai Store that also owns my Kia store. He has not paid for any repair either.
  • akirbyakirby Member Posts: 8,062
    I never understood Peace of Mind on extended warranty purchases. To me you're spending $1K-$2K up front for something you may never need and even if you do need it won't kick in for at least 3-5 years. I've driven my last 5 vehicles for 2-3 years past the factory B2B warranty and I've spent a grand total of $60 for a door handle and $150 for a cooling fan. By not buying an extended warranty on those vehicles I've saved at least $7000. Even if I had to pay for a new engine tomorrow I'm still thousands ahead. To me that's peace of mind.
  • ahightowerahightower Member Posts: 539
    edited November 2014
    akirby said:

    I never understood Peace of Mind on extended warranty purchases. To me you're spending $1K-$2K up front for something you may never need and even if you do need it won't kick in for at least 3-5 years. I've driven my last 5 vehicles for 2-3 years past the factory B2B warranty and I've spent a grand total of $60 for a door handle and $150 for a cooling fan. By not buying an extended warranty on those vehicles I've saved at least $7000. Even if I had to pay for a new engine tomorrow I'm still thousands ahead. To me that's peace of mind.

    I typically agree, and yet... when I was closing on my 2013 Accord, they made such a strong offer on the b2b extended warranty that I went for it. It was the first year of a redesigned model, which was my only hesitation about the car. So this gave me peace of mind that at least there would be no repair costs while I was still making payments. And they included five oil changes, which I usually like to do by myself, but what the hey. When all was said and done, they had actually cut the price of the car (below what I was already satisfied with), and the interest rate (from 0.9 to 0.4) in order to charge more for the warranty. Bit of a shell game, but my total out-of-pocket was satisfactory.
  • akirbyakirby Member Posts: 8,062
    I'll amend my statement that it can make sense if you finance the warranty so you're only paying a few dollars per month to avoid making a single large repair payment especially if you're on fixed or low income.
  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,336
    Insurance only makes sense for cost certainty or catastrophe.

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

  • akirbyakirby Member Posts: 8,062
    Some people don't understand that warranties are simply insurance policies. Self insuring is always cheaper over the long run if you can afford it.
  • stevedebistevedebi Member Posts: 4,098
    akirby said:

    I never understood Peace of Mind on extended warranty purchases. To me you're spending $1K-$2K up front for something you may never need and even if you do need it won't kick in for at least 3-5 years. I've driven my last 5 vehicles for 2-3 years past the factory B2B warranty and I've spent a grand total of $60 for a door handle and $150 for a cooling fan. By not buying an extended warranty on those vehicles I've saved at least $7000. Even if I had to pay for a new engine tomorrow I'm still thousands ahead. To me that's peace of mind.

    I've had the opposite experience. I got one on our 2001 Honda Civic, and it paid for itself. I also got one on my 2008 Escape Hybrid, and it paid for itself. If I plan to keep a car, I will get an extended warranty that covers at least the length of the loan - that way I don't have out of pocket beyond the payments.

    For my new 2014 Cmax Energi, I am leasing for 3 years, but if I decide to buy I will get the extended warranty. There is just too much electronics on these vehicles to take the chance.

    Some folks would rather take chances. I'd rather have the peace of mind. Also, whatever is not used of the warranty is refunded if I sell.
  • suydamsuydam Member Posts: 5,067
    I figure if I'm buying a reliable car I shouldn't need anything extra. So far that has been the right choice with my vehicles.
    '24 Kia Sportage PHEV
    '24 Chevy Blazer EV 2LT
  • nyccarguynyccarguy Member Posts: 17,491
    The Legacy is the 1st car I've ever purchased with an extended warranty. Bumper to Bumper is 3 years/36K from the factory with 5 years/60K power train. I took a 5 year/100K Extended Warranty from Subaru (not a 3rd party) for $1,538. I drive 20,000 miles per year, so I'll blow through the factory b to b in a year & a half and the power train in 3 years. So I know if the CVT blows between 60,001 & 100,000 miles I'll be covered. The warranty also covers 4 replacement tires.

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

  • stevedebistevedebi Member Posts: 4,098
    suydam said:

    I figure if I'm buying a reliable car I shouldn't need anything extra. So far that has been the right choice with my vehicles.

    It is definitely an individual decision, and reflects the philosophy of the owner!
  • brian125brian125 Member Posts: 5,244
    edited November 2014
    Warranties,

    I also agree if your buying a reliable model Pass on the Warranty. My cars are owned only 3 to 6 years. The money I have saved over the years not taking these extenders is overwhelming. When I was younger and my kids were pre teen to teens I keep vehicles 6 years. Remember the Dodge Caravan in the early 80's, nice ride but American garbage. Vehicles like theses' needed a warranty. My dodge with 45k needed full front end work, A trans, A/c compressor, Condenser Alternator, Electrical problems and yes many rattles and squeaks. I'm sure there were more vehicles like this back then. Not so much Now.



    Consumer Reports proved by surveying 8,000 owners of five and six year-old vehicles that had been covered by extended service plans. 75% of those surveyed said they spent significantly more for the contract than they got back in repair-cost savings. Respondents said their extended warranty cost them $1,200 on average while providing an average benefit of $700. That means the average loss was $500. A big reason: almost 50 percent of extended warranties were never used, in most cases because the vehicle didn't need repairs or the standard manufacturer's warranty sufficed.

    Another reason people were dissatisfied was because the repair was not covered. Clichés about reading the fine print are especially appropriate when talking about extended warranties. The brochure may present the service plan as "comprehensive," but the contract will likely have numerous limitations, such as requiring documented service at in-network shops and covering only certain parts, rather than whole systems. A good Example of this is Hyundai and Kia's Limited extended warranty. Read the fine print. Still the best warranty out there for free.

    Rather than invest in an extended warranty, buying the most reliable car that suits your needs, budget, and taste and taking good care of it. Sometimes, this can mean spending more upfront, but the reward is typically lower ownership costs and even better resale value. But, if you're heart is set on a model known to be unreliable, an extended warranty can provide some protection. Just approach with caution, negotiate the price, and be aware that if you roll the cost into your financing, you'll be paying interest on it for years to come.

    23 Telluride SX-P X-Line, 23 Camry XSE

  • akirbyakirby Member Posts: 8,062
    All you need to know is that the companies selling these extended warranties are making money on them (or they wouldn't be selling them). Therefore on average over a large number of vehicles they win. They price their warranties to make sure of that. It's no different than playing roulette in vegas. You might win once or twice but if you play long enough the house always wins because the odds are always in their favor.

    If you want to gamble that's fine - you might win a few times. But at least recognize it's a gamble that's not in your favor.

    As for not paying anything out of pocket - where do you think the cost of the warranty came from in the first place?
  • stevedebistevedebi Member Posts: 4,098
    akirby said:

    All you need to know is that the companies selling these extended warranties are making money on them (or they wouldn't be selling them). Therefore on average over a large number of vehicles they win. They price their warranties to make sure of that. It's no different than playing roulette in vegas. You might win once or twice but if you play long enough the house always wins because the odds are always in their favor.

    If you want to gamble that's fine - you might win a few times. But at least recognize it's a gamble that's not in your favor.

    As for not paying anything out of pocket - where do you think the cost of the warranty came from in the first place?

    I only buy warranties that cover everything (except wear and tear) and with low deductibles. For Ford, that means PremiumCare zero deductible. And I normally finance the warranties, which means there is no additional out of pocket besides the initial cost folded into the loan - and if the car is wrecked, I have paid only for what I used.

    A single repair of an electronics module can easily cost several hundred dollars (I know, I've had it happen, except I didn't pay - the warranty did).

    As to "roulette", insurance is always based on the odds, based on the probable payouts. They would not be selling if the company did not think that they would be better for them over the long run. And they wouldn't sell if there were not folks like me who prefer to have one known payment and not to have to worry about covering repair costs while paying the car payments. I don't particularly care what CR says - this is the way I roll, and so far the "roulette" has gone my way by a big margin.
  • akirbyakirby Member Posts: 8,062
    Just a question - when you say it paid for itself on several vehicles - does that mean you had a repair that would not have been covered by the regular factory warranty but was covered by the extended warranty? Or just that you had a repair covered by warranty? You can't count repairs covered under the standard warranty because that's included with the vehicle at no extra cost. E.g. on a Fusion the ESP only covers the powertrain between 5 and 7 yrs and between 60K and 100K miles. Before that the factory warranty is in effect and after that you don't have a warranty at all.

    And FYI - zero deductible anything is a waste of money.
  • backybacky Member Posts: 18,949
    I've bought extended warranties before on used vehicles but never on a new vehicle. One case was a disaster--a warranty on an MPV that I used once, and it worked great, saved $500 on the repair. Then the warranty company went belly-up. I got another one from a more reputable company on a 2005 Jetta, but I never used it as the Jetta was totaled a few months later so I got nearly the entire warranty cost refunded.

    If I were to get an extended warranty on a used car again, my preference would be to get the extended coverage offered on CPO cars, since that's backed by the automaker. Or the "powertrain warranty for life" coverage offered for no charge (well, the charge is built into the price I'm sure) on used cars by well-established dealers.
  • I loved the style of my car, and the 10 year 100k warranty relieved any reliability fears. I have three girls to put through college, and I don't make mad money and I don't gamble. Not even scratch tickets. So, I can't afford and unexpected $2000 repair job. I would rather pay up front so I did, and 10 years bumper to bumper includes the battery and AC repair including R-13 leaks and repairs.. Free is the best price for my family, because there isn't much budge in our budget.
  • ahightowerahightower Member Posts: 539
    akirby said:

    Some people don't understand that warranties are simply insurance policies. Self insuring is always cheaper over the long run if you can afford it.

    Tell that to the guy whose house burns down. Why, if he'd saved that $1,500 a year, he could have saved enough to rebuild out of his own pocket in just a couple hundred years!

    I kid. It's true, insurance is intended for uncertain catastrophes. Maintenance and care (home, auto, or health) are not "insurance". You don't expect your car insurance to pay for new tires, nor your homeowners insurance to pay for mowing the grass, and you shouldn't expect your health insurance to pay for... well, I'll step back from that ledge before I alienate the entire forum. ;)

    Does a buying a $750 warranty for maybe $2-3K worth of repairs, maybe $0 worth of repairs, make sense?... Not really. Which is why I declined it three times before the marginal monthly payment increase was so small I briefly lost touch with my left brain and went for it. And ya know, I'm still glad it's there. Though I have the savings on hand to handle a transmission or electrical problem, when you begin to think in terms of $15 a month, your inner Dave Ramsey gets the boot. They are very good at selling the stupid things. And don't we all upsell something in our jobs? If I couldn't talk people into bells and whistles now and then, my kids would be hungry. :)
  • Mr_ShiftrightMr_Shiftright Member Posts: 64,481
    Well obviously underwriters are making money on extended warranties, so the idea that the "house wins" more than the car owner makes sense.

    Also, don't you think that the relative cost of an extended warranty (comparing 3 different brands for instance) reflects the confidence the underwriter has in that particular car's reliability?
  • Kirstie_HKirstie_H Administrator Posts: 11,242
    A reporter seeks to interview a recent new car buyer who financed through a 72-month or longer loan. Please email PR@edmunds.com to share your story.

    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

  • akirbyakirby Member Posts: 8,062



    Also, don't you think that the relative cost of an extended warranty (comparing 3 different brands for instance) reflects the confidence the underwriter has in that particular car's reliability?

    Not necessarily. It just means that the calculated cost of average repairs is lower during the extended warranty period. This could be because most big ticket failures occur during the factory warranty period or the cost of the repairs is lower or the policy has more exclusions or higher deductibles.

    Or they have a lower profit margin.
  • brian125brian125 Member Posts: 5,244
    edited November 2014
    Yes the water pump is covered.

    The powertrain warranty will cover all components of a powertrain system that are submerged in fluid. So, the water pump is covered because it's submerged in fluid, but an E.G.R. valve is not likely to be covered. I know on Honda and Toyota they are not.

    An important warranty that everyone should know about is the extended federal emissions warranty. This covers just a few emission components for eight years or 80,000 miles, mainly the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) and the catalytic converter, but very few people know this warranty exists and that it covers two very expensive repairs. This warranty is only good at an authorized dealership. So be sure to ask before paying for either of these repairs. I know several people who spent over 1500 dollars to Replace these parts not knowing they have 8yrs/ 80k.

    23 Telluride SX-P X-Line, 23 Camry XSE

  • stevedebistevedebi Member Posts: 4,098
    akirby said:

    Just a question - when you say it paid for itself on several vehicles - does that mean you had a repair that would not have been covered by the regular factory warranty but was covered by the extended warranty? Or just that you had a repair covered by warranty? You can't count repairs covered under the standard warranty because that's included with the vehicle at no extra cost. E.g. on a Fusion the ESP only covers the powertrain between 5 and 7 yrs and between 60K and 100K miles. Before that the factory warranty is in effect and after that you don't have a warranty at all.

    And FYI - zero deductible anything is a waste of money.

    The repairs were after the 3/36 (or 5/50 powertrain). So the original warranty was not valid.

    And FYI - I disagree with your zero deductible statement.
  • akirbyakirby Member Posts: 8,062
    It almost always costs more for a zero deductible warranty than you save in deductible fees. E.g if you make 2 claims with a $100 deductible you spent $200 out of pocket but you probably saved $300 up front by choosing the $100 deductible.

    You'd have to make several claims on a single vehicle to recoup the up front cost difference.

    Get the highest deductible you can afford.
  • ahightowerahightower Member Posts: 539

    Well obviously underwriters are making money on extended warranties, so the idea that the "house wins" more than the car owner makes sense.

    Also, don't you think that the relative cost of an extended warranty (comparing 3 different brands for instance) reflects the confidence the underwriter has in that particular car's reliability?

    Indeed. The cheaper the warranty, the less you need it.
  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,336
    sat in a 2015 Camry back to back with a 2014.5 (both SEs) last night. Interior wise, you really have to pay attention to find the changes. Very similar.

    styling, that is definitely different. front end is iffy, back and sides nice improvement IMO.

    did not drive it, so can't comment on the reported improvements to steering and driving dynamics.

    Price seems to be up slightly, but hard to compare exactly the way the shuffled standard equipment and options packages.

    I think it is silly that they did that big a redesign, and the XLE still does not have basic blind spot monitoring or keyless entry/start standard. A 21K Mazda 3 has that.

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

  • robr2robr2 Member Posts: 8,805
    stickguy said:

    I think it is silly that they did that big a redesign, and the XLE still does not have basic blind spot monitoring or keyless entry/start standard. A 21K Mazda 3 has that.

    The V6 XSE and XLE both have the keyless entry as standard. Those features will filter down/become standard over the 5 year model run.
  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,336
    Maybe. Still seems cheap or shortsighted. The xle is almost 27k, without a moonroof!

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

  • stevedebistevedebi Member Posts: 4,098
    akirby said:

    It almost always costs more for a zero deductible warranty than you save in deductible fees. E.g if you make 2 claims with a $100 deductible you spent $200 out of pocket but you probably saved $300 up front by choosing the $100 deductible.

    You'd have to make several claims on a single vehicle to recoup the up front cost difference.

    Get the highest deductible you can afford.

    Again, to each his own. The difference was about 200 bucks, over a 7 year, 100K warranty. Lets see, that is $2.38 cents per month. Seems worth it to me, but then we disagree about the advisability of a warranty anyway.
  • akirbyakirby Member Posts: 8,062
    That's because you're only concerned with monthly payments and not the actual cost. Which is fine if that's all you care about.
  • brian125brian125 Member Posts: 5,244
    Hey congrats to the 2015 Honda CRV. Motor treads 2015, .........Suv of the year.

    23 Telluride SX-P X-Line, 23 Camry XSE

  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,336
    picked up a 2015 Sonata limited tech today. Was looking at a 2014 Limited 2.0T leftover, but the new model blew it away. Only the 2.4 so not as fast, but still plenty quick. Loaded to the gills. Very nice driving too (handling, ride, quite, seats). I may never figure out all the features this thing has. Frugal too. even with all the idling while playing with features at delivery, and mixed driving on way home with a few stops, trip MPG showing 29.5.

    can't wait to get a real highway stretch. But better watch out. This is deceptively fast. crept up to 70 on a 4 lane local road and felt like I was doing 30. Cruise on the highway will be a must.

    very, very well done IMO. I sat in a 2015 Camry limited this week (did not drive) and honestly there does not seem to be any comparison in style or feature content to the Sonata.

    very nice upgrade model. Highly competitive in the class I think.

    only have 45 miles on it. I will post impressions once I get more time in it.

    A Sonata, with heated/cooled seats up font (heated rear). Even has a heated steering wheel. What is the world coming to?

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

  • m6userm6user Member Posts: 3,181
    My wife is in the market for a new midsizer. Going to give the Mazda6 to our grandaughter. I would prefer a new Mazda6 but she will be driving it 98% so it is her choice. Her main want is quiet ride and dependability. The rest can be average like handling, tech, looks. She has driven our Mazda6 over 120k and virtually nothing has gone wrong but currently looking at a wheel bearing replacement which is not a big deal considering the miles. I've test driven the new Mazda6 a couple of times and I like it but to be honest it isn't much quieter than our current one so she wants to try something else.

    Anywho, I've been web comparing the 2015 Sonata, Passat, Camry, Legacy and Malibu as they seem to get good reviews for the things she's looking for.....mainly solitude on the freeway. Looking for comments on specific likes and dislikes between these models if someone has done some recent comparing or test drives. I will probably be test driving all these models in the next week to boil it down to two or three for her to test drive. On paper I"m kind of liking the Sonata Eco Sport so far. And yes I've considered the others but have ruled them out for one reason or the other so I'm really looking for info on the ones I mentioned. Tks.


  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 53,336
    I'll play, having recent time in a Sonata, Legacy, passat and Camry. Sat in the malibu and it seemed nice enough, but never drove one (just the previous generation thanks to Hertz).

    Passat: Had a 2012 base model rental recently and put on about 300 miles. 50K on it. overall, a nice enough drive. Huge car though (at least perception wise). Good seats. the 2.5L was kind of coarse, but that is not an issue. I have a lot of wheel time in a new Jetta with the 1.8T, and it is a nice powertrain, that gets good MPG. Downside, if you are in for a long term relationship, it is a VW. Overall, I think of this as a good highway car if you don't want overstuffed isolation.

    Camry: did a couple of test drives. I liked it more than expected. On local streets it seemed to handle fine, but I never tried hustling it. Seats did feel good, and as typical for a Camry, it was serene. I sat in a new style 2015 (no drive). interior seemed very similar. Reportedly the steering/handling dynamics have been improved. Seems to lag on features unless you really blow the budget.

    Legacy: Maybe NYC will wander by (since he just bought one) but from his reports, his has been a fine commuter car on the highway. I test drove a couple of times, and thought it was a very nice package. especially attractive if you want AWD. Quiet, comfortable, but still some "feel of the road" and driving involvement. Probably a good choice coming out of a Mazda.

    Sonata: I got to try it on the highway today on the way home from the dealer. On a bombed out stretch of I95 through Philly (they are rebuilding that stretch) it drove very well. nice steering, solid handling, seemed to have good road feel, controlled buy comfy ride. excellent seats. And very quiet (just don't hear traffic noise).

    I got the 2.4 model Sonata, and it has plenty of power I think. Certainly on par with your current car. I would have considered a 1.6, but they are not actually out yet. Plus I don't think you can get some of the fancier goodies on it (moonroof, nav). I would expect it to drive similarly. It does have 16" wheels instead of 17", so maybe a softer ride?

    Overall, I like all your choices. Basically my short list (with the Mazda too) after I decided that the Accord EX just did not quite work for me. With the Camry the outlier (there more for $ reasons).

    Sonata won with Legacy probably 2nd and Mazda 3rd. $/feature content really tipped the scales, but it stood out on it's own dynamically. I actually thought the Sonata and Legacy were very similar, the way the interior was laid out, styling and driving dynamics.

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

Sign In or Register to comment.