I'd like to get an idea of what people are paying for insurance. I got a quote from my Allstate agent for $545 per 6 months using the VIN #s from the car I will be buying, which is not a bad premium at considering the price of the car.
A good premium ... VERY good if you're getting maximum coverages with maximum deductibles. I'm paying $600 and change per six months to cover my M35 and my wife's Lexus GX470. No accidents, no speed violations since 1982.
I see on the Palm web site that they have released updates for TREO 650s for Sprint, Rogers and unlocked GSM. I have Cingular, but am curious.
I dumped my Samsung i730 today in favor of a Treo 650 from Verizon. It took me 5 minutes to realize it wasn't compatible with Infiniti so I took it back. Not possible to initiate a call from the Treo (concur with prior posts here). Gave up on phone/PDA and went back to the Motorola V815 and thus far it seems all's well. The Samsung easily flips out of its cheap plastic holster but it disables BT when leaving the car and doesn't re-link with the car's system on the way back from the grocery store.
Can some on tell me how to get the correct street. First I choose street number, then OK then street name, then it lists choices but not the one I need, do you need to enter a town?
I've never had to enter a state --- I get options all over the place after entering the address and I simply select the right one. I can imagine the bedlam that Market or Central Street would create, however.
That's an incredible rate, with emphasis on "incredible". I'm with USAA and have the maximum coverages with maximum decudtible ($1000) and declined towing, etc, because both of our cars have manufacturer's roadside assistance. Uninsured/underinsured motorist max as well. I'm paying $650 per six months. I got a quote from GEICO for the same coverage ... $750 per six months. I also carry a large umbrella policy. Good driver discounts (no accidents in 20 years), no traffic citations, both of us over 60 and no kids around. Part of the AZ high premium reflects the high vehicle theft rate here PLUS the immense costs incurred by illegals driving here uninsured and intoxicated.
Your premium is so low if this is your first contract with State Farm, beware of premium hikes in the future. It isn't unheard of for companies to lure you in with gonga premiums and push you up next year. Good luck, and congratulations if it holds up.
Disapointments No coin holder.( least on my model w/ my options). A nit I know, but I was looking for one. I use one of the cup holders instead. I shouldn't have to.
Power trunk closer. Would be nice for a $60K Lux car.
Good writeup, thanks. I have an '04 FX35 that has a power trunk closer, interesting the Ms do not. I keep coins in the ash tray of my cars.
I have an '04 FX35 that has a power trunk closer, interesting the Ms do not
Agree. If the FX has it the M should too. Just like rain sense wipers ( I forgot to list that as a disappointment) the Q45 has them but not the M. Makes no sense.
I'll take speed-sensitive wipers any day over automatic rain-sensing wipers. Since (I believe) you have to adjust the interval manually anyway for rain-sensing wipers, I don't see the point of avoiding a simple flick of the fingers. Someone correct me if I'm wrong about setting the interval.
As to the power trunk, does the FX have a full lift-gate? In that case, I can see how it would be much more needed than on the M--not an excuse, just an observation.
Maybe Infiniti decided that some things on a sport luxury sedan are less important than a luxury sedan and hence left off a few purely luxo options. That is, if you want a sport sedan, you probably can close the trunk manually. This brings up probably one of the biggest disappoinments for many, though. Where is the manual trans option?
My personal biggest disappointment? No AWD on the 45. I would've loved that. Are you listening, Mr. Ghosn?
In addition to auto-locking doors, automated rain sensing wipers, coin holder and full passenger seat adjustment, I would like to see fold down seat backs. This is a very nice feature on the Audi A6. I can count on one hand the number of times I've had a use for it, but when I needed it what a time saver!
As for the power trunk, here's an alternative - install a metal license plate frame. This adds enough weight so the trunk is close to being evenly balanced. You can then easily lift and close the trunk with one finger.
Once again, doc, you're misinformed. You seem to be blaming the high insurance premiums on those unfortunte few people who are catastrophically injured in auto accidents. The catastrophic claims fund exists in Michigan because the no-fault insurers insisted on it in 1978. The insured person's insurer is liable for the first $300,000.00 of medical care in a catastrophic loss situation such as paralysis or disabling neurologic injury. The fund indemnifies the insurer for all reasonable and necessary medical care after the first 300k. All auto insurers that write policies in Michigan are required to pay into the fund to spread the risk for the relatively few catastrophic auto insurance claims that occur each year here in Michigan.
Because of no-fault insurance and the fund, guys like you are guaranteed to get your bills paid when treating an auto accident victim in Michigan. Meanwhile, people who are horribly injured in auto accidents are assured that they will receive the care they need. I'm not sure what your problem is with that arrangement. Only a very modest portion of your insurance premium is used to finance the fund.
There's an awful lot you don't know about the law, especially here in your own state. Claims of all kinds are way down, and premiums continue to climb. Things like caps, etc. have been in place here for nearly 10 years. Don't believe every line of crap that's fed to you.
By the way, I have an M35x and my premium is around $400/6 months with a $500 deductible, the highest avaialable liability limits, the highest available uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, etc.
Well I finally took delivery of my M35x with Journey, Tech, and MES, black/black last night and I must say I am very pleased with how it looked upon first glance in the dealer's garage all prepped for my delivery. The delivery process was a bit lengthy, but since I'm fairly familiar with the car and not fearful of all the gadgetry, I managed to slip out of there in under 2 hours with the expectation that I will follow up with my list of questions and clarifications.
As for your comments, I couldn't agree more. I too share some of your same likes and dislikes even though I haven't owned the car even 24 hours I've become very familiar with the several test drives I took as well as reading this forum on a regular basis.
My overall impressions as an owner of the car are phenomenal. I love the power, the rhaspy throttle sound as you hit the gas at about 70 mph. I was a little concerned about road noise on the highway, but now realize that at steady cruising speeds it is quiet enough for me and I especially like the throaty response once you hit the gas pedal to accelerate. As others have posted on initial tire pressure upon delivery, mine were at 45 psi and I will definitely get that down to a more normal level. I found that the ride was a little stiff, but not excessevily hars even at these psi levels, but I will definitely let some air out at my first opportunity.
I opted to go for the 2 year tire/wheel/dents, dings, and windshield protection policy for $300 and that was all - didn't go with the "teflon" coating paint protection, the "diamond" sealing on the windshields, extended warranty ($2,400 for 3 years on top of the factory warranty of 4) and all the other money making offers for the dealer that they presented me with. It's amazing all the gimmicks the dealer's try to sell. What is particularly most amusing is the sales pitch for the extended warranty. I just don't see from a present value of money perspective of forking over that kind of money to them for what has zero value until 48 months from today. Who knows where I or the car will be by then?!
I too looked at BMW, MB, Acura RL, etc. and concluded that for thousands less I am getting FAR MORE car than with any of the others. What I especially like the most is the "fun factor" of the car and how enjoyable and responsive it is from the power perspective. The only cars that came close are the used MB S-430 and BMW 745s I looked at, but these were someone else's 3 year old problems, which I didn't want. For about the same price as a 3 year old used S class or 745, I bought a BRAND NEW (2006 mind you) model with all the bells, whistles, and toys any gadget-happy guy could want, with looks, styling, power, and luxury to boot. Need I say more? The Infiniti M ROCKS, game over!!!
You misunderstand. I am not opposed to it, but it does contribute to higher premiums here than in other states (which don't have it). My beef with it is that people choose not to wear their seatbelts and we have legislators who want to abolish the helmet law. Therefore, my premiums go up for other people's choices.
I am all for personal freedoms except when they infringe on others. If motorcyclists want to take their own life (or neurological well-being) into their own hands, fine. Just don't pass the buck onto my insurance carrier (and then me).
Lawdawg, are you a plaintiff's attorney by any chance? Peace.
The '04 FX Tech package does NOT include Rain-Sensing Wipers (not sure about '05); however my '04 MDX does have them. I must say that I like the MDX Rain-Sensing Wipers in a qualified way. They are very accurate, however they can be fooled. Once in a while they'll wipe for no apparent reason. You can adjust the sensitivity, varying how much rain must hit before activating. As one who can't stand wipers going any faster than necessary I find myself adjusting the sensitivity some, so I do have to use the fingers but not as often as without the sensors. Bottom-line: If you can stand an occasional false wipe and aren't too picky about wiper speed then Rain-Sensing Wipers are a forget its there auto feature. Otherwise (like where I am) they area an OK feature that is not a must have. By the way the Auto setting can be turned off.
The FX has a Power Close/Latch only and NOT a Power Lift. Thus all it really does is teach you how to not slam your trunk closed
Thanks Bart. I have had the TREO 650 with my M for about 3 months now. It doesn't work perfect, but does work well enough to get by. My experiences have been the same as other posters in this forum.
What I'm really interested in is the updates that Palm released. Has anyone tried the "unlocked GSM" on a Cingular phone? Has anyone with Sprint installed the update and seen a noticeable difference?
I really like the TREO phone and am going to keep it....just hoping Palm is making progress on compatibility.
you have to adjust the interval manually anyway for rain-sensing wipers
If they are only rain sensing, then you might. If they are rain sensing and speed sensitive, then you wouldn't.
Most rain sensing wipers have a sensitivity setting, but that doesn't affect the speed sensing part (if available).
The BMW's seem to wipe too soon (or when the winshield isn't even wet). The Lexus wipers work perfectly (at least they did on my test drive) without having to change any settings.
> ...I am asking current M owners to post more messages about their likes/dislikes
Maybe it is just a nit but I feel it will get to me over time...
Sit perfectly straight and centered in the driver's seat of an M35x. Now look at the center of the steering wheel where the Infiniti logo is. Do you see that the axis of the wheel is about 1 inch to the left from the center of your chest, or is it just me?
Assuming that it is not my imagination, I am not sure how the car could have been designed that lousy way. I understand that the center console hasto be large to house all the electronics (or maybe the transmission) but I do not find this comfortable. Hate driving twisted to the left. I must admit that during the test drive I paid more attention to the position of the brake pedal vs. the steering wheel (should be to the right of the axis to aid in emergency braking), so I did not notice this apparent flaw at that time.
Has anybody figured out a way to add auto-locking doors through an aftermarket alarm system add-on?
Also, I don't think there is a 12V power outlet in the trunk. Wonder how difficult this is to add?
I also heard the sunglass holder compartment gets burning hot in summer. Anybody has a good idea for better insulation?
Talking about sunglasses, if they are polarized it is impossible to read the NAV screen. I heard about companies selling quarter wave retarder films. Anybody have experience with them?
And last, who has good ideas for radar detector placement and hiding cables?
Just to recap, my first BT phone with Verizon was the Motorola V710 -- with the exception of the inability to import the phone book to the car's audio system it functioned flawlessly. Every time I got into the car it coupled ... immediately. I then wanted to cut back on my number of carrying pieces so got the Samsung i730 ... it turned itself off every time I left the car and had to be re-coupled upon getting back in. The sound quality was stunning. I wasn't terribly happy with it's bulk, the fact that the plastic holster clip was flimsy subjecting the expensive unit to potential drops and damage, and the added aggravation that the function buttons on the side of the unit are easy to inadvertantly push when packing it away or taking it out. Ergo, I returned it and tried a Treo 650 ... but returned that because outgoing calls can't be initiated through the car's system.
I decided to go back to my Palm and get the upgrade of the V710, the V815 ... supposedly identical but slightly upgraded. Guess what. Turns itself off when leaving the car and has to be coupled every time I get back in. Verizon says that's by design ... mexibec says it's a faulty unit. In any event, I'm back to the future and my V710 that's working just fine.
Please, if anyone here has a satisfactory experience with the V815 please post ASAP. Verizon's unwilling to let me trade back for a V710 (one for my wife, one for me) but if I have a defective unit that's another issue.
I havent fully used my nav system but noticed recently when I put in a street name or a city name, I got choices that were in the Western US. Then I noticed a button to reset to the central US area and when I used it then, the street or city choices included the one I was seeking. I suggest reading the manual if you can find the option I mentioned.
So I guess my great Maui Jim sunglasses will not work great on in terms of viewing the NAV screen. Has anyone bought/used the retartder films and is it any good?
Finally, what do you all feel is the best radar detector? Is it the Valentine one? The last time I read anything about them (it's been a while), it seemed that this one was ranked at the top.
I ended up with a Solo because I didn't want a cord. Now if I could get a Valentine hard-wired to the rear-view mirror power source (and a good location near the mirror, yet unobtrusive), that would be great. I have a partner who has a setup like this in his S4.
As to sunglasses, I have polarized lenses and it only affects the screen slightly. If I tilt my head 45 degrees, it gets worse. What I have noticed is that I can't make the screen disappear completely like on some LCD screens.
Suddenly the V710 isn't behaving ... I think it's my wife's fault. However my car's going in on Tuesday AM for routine 3 month oil change and I'll complain about the BT connection. The V710 worked flawlessly until today ... 'twas last Saturday that I started playing musical BT units. Stay tuned for next Tuesday's update. Bart
I'm a big fan of the Valentine1. The use of arrows indicating the source of the signal is invaluable.
I have the power cord run up the a-pillar in my Jag, then across the visors. I use the suction cups to mount it just above the drivers side of the mirror.
I'd do the same on my incoming M35x(Graphite/Graphite, Journey, Tech, chromes, FSS, Mats and spoiler) but I'm not sure the perforated black area around the mirror will let the signal through.
Just did a test drive yesterday. Things were fine except for the passenger seat which my wife said was too low and unadjustable for height at the front of the seat. Salesperson said that was to make sure the airbags hit right. Do the sport seats make a difference?
Long time lurker, first time poster. I have started looking at new cars to put the absolutely miserable experience of MB ownership (2003 E500) behind me. Enough said.
First impressions of a short test drive of a M45 Sport versus the E500:
Excellent value proposition.
Getting closer to the German driving experience - why I bought MB over Lexus.
Exterior styling acceptable. Not boring, but not particularly eye catching.
Back seat has more legroom. Almost no one can sit behind in the MB when the seats are fully back.
Interior styling still trying to warm up to. Would probably choose aluminum. Definitely a step down from MB in both design and material quality, at least when compared to MB full leather. Find the door pulls not well done at all but de gustibus...
Biggest downtick is the lack of availability of the high end stereo without all the tech gizmo's. Don't need them or want them. Highly adverse after MB experience.
Dealer (Chicago) had almost none to look at color combos in person. Will go back when the new building opens and selection is greater for another look and drive. Wife likes the Audi 8L better but it's a big car for a lot more money.
After using several other detectors I switched to Valentine 1. Its pricey but you can't beat this unit. In my view its the best available on the market.
I have had MB for many many years...450SL 500SEL 320SEC 500SL 600S (just sold the 600S 2 1/2 months ago) I will not buy a MB if you're thinking keeping longer than the warrenty or extended warrenty. You will be asking for trouble. I'm waiting for a M45 sport to be delivered hopefully in 10 days from California. The past 2 1/2 months I've test drove Lexus 300 and 430, MB CLS500, BMW 525 and Infiniti M35, M45. I bought the M45 with Tech option. I feel the exterior design could be more daring instead of being conservertive. I like the CLS 500 exterior design better. Then, I prefer the M45 had more head room for the front and the back seats. lexus 430 is quite nice if you like softer ride. It's all matter of personal choice. Good luck and have fun!
I also heard the sunglass holder compartment gets burning hot in summer. Anybody has a good idea for better insulation?
I'm the one who posted that, and here in Tucson (where we're in our 33rd consecutive day above 100 with no relief in sight) it's impossible to store glasses in that compartment. I've tried using a soft corduroy insulated case but to no avail. I have resorted to leaving it open and dangling when parked --- it's the only way I've found to keep them marginally tolerable. This is particularly troublesome with metal frames ... some of the newer synthetic plastic frames are more acceptable.
Talking about sunglasses, if they are polarized it is impossible to read the NAV screen. I heard about companies selling quarter wave retarder films. Anybody have experience with them?
This is categorically incorrect. I'm in the eye business, and every pair of sunglasses I own are polarized. There is NO difficulty whatsoever seeing the NAV screen under any conditions. This is true in my wife's Lexus as well. I can't read the face on my Palm Pilot; that's true. But viewing the NAV screen is not affected at all.
I haven't owned the car even 24 hours I've become very familiar with the several test drives I took as well as reading this forum on a regular basis.
My overall impressions as an owner of the car are phenomenal. I love the power, the rhaspy throttle sound as you hit the gas at about 70 mph.
Not very good for the engine to crank it up that high this early. As I recall they recommend keeping the rpm's < 4000 for the first 1200 miles. Cruising at 70's OK; goosing it at 70 isn't healthy.
I have had the car (M35X -Ivory/Graphite Journey and Nav) for 1600 miles. I expect to take a trip next weekend to PA ( I live on Long Island.). I decided I had better put some wax on the car so that any road film espeecially Tar would not stick to the paint. After washing with Mothers car wash I used some Mothers Pre-Wax Cleaner and then some bug and tar remover to get any trouble spots. Car was Mint. I used to use Mother California Gold without cleaner as a wax. With all the Zano talk on the board, I started doing some research. The P21S was the highest rated carnuba wax (Zano is a sealant). Carnuba will give you a better shine than a sealant and thats what I am after, If I have to wax it 4 times a year instead of 2x, I am fine with that. The Zano cars look great, lease don't jump down my throat. I have used liquid glass system, also a sealant on a white M3 for years and it did not shine like the mothers carnuba wax. The liquid glass also seemed to oxidize if I washed with anytrhing but their product. Also happened if I used a car wash.
I cannot tell you how awesome the car came out with the P21S. I can't wait to see how long it lasts. Product is easy on and off. No dust. Applied with applicator, remove with microfiber towel. Fast and 10x easier than anything else I have ever used.
Only disapointment is that I did find a small nick o the front bumper. Size of a staple where the paint is gone. Any ideas on how to fix without bringing more attention that its worth? It really bothers me. Otrher than that- Love this car. I wish it came with a CD to run through the features. My Volvo came with a Video tape. Still not the master of all features.
Strange thing: I have the Nextel Blackberry 7520. Worked great for two weeks with the M35 blue tooth (some echo problems, but it worked). All of a sudden, it fails. Of course it is not supported by Infiniti. I have Nextel send me another blackberry. Same thing happens. It works for a week, than quits. I can pair it, but than it says my phone is not connected. Why would it just give up after a week or 2? Any possible work around? Does anyone know the blue tooth manufacturer that Infiniti uses? I love the car but their blue tooth department is not helpful at all. Anyone with any ideas of how to work around this problem. Since I had the functionality of the blue tooth, and saw how cool it was, I want it back. Please help.
Most likely a problem with the Blackberry itself. Have you tried to soft-reset? If yes, how about hard-reset? If the problem goes away either way, then the Blackberry is at fault. So far, Infiniti's Bluetooth implementation is solid, and I'm well versed into Bluetooth. You may want to bring this BT discussion to the BT forum (ask PAT for which one).
For those who are using the Samsung i730 and experience the disconnect issue when leaving the car, a solution is available at: http://www.exposecorp.com/i730bt.htm
A couple of months ago there were a few posts about Nissan's supercharger or turbocharger (from the Z-car) that should be compatible with the M-35's engine. Anyone have additional information on this? Anyone do it?
> I cannot tell you how awesome the car came out with the P21S.
Congratulations! It is said that the carnuba wax based products "nourish" the paint, as opposed to polymer based sealants, such as Zaino, that merely protect it. Whether this is true and needed by the modern clear-coats or not is debatable. Keep us posted on how long Mother's lasts.
Strange thing: I have the Nextel Blackberry 7520. Worked great for two weeks with the M35 blue tooth (some echo problems, but it worked). All of a sudden, it fails. Of course it is not supported by Infiniti. I have Nextel send me another blackberry. Same thing happens. It works for a week, than quits. I can pair it, but than it says my phone is not connected.
tomc: That's exactly the experience I had with my V710 from Verizon and posted a couple of days ago. From day #1 it worked great ... the moment I entered the car the phone and the car's audio system locked onto each other. I must now link up every time I get in the car. Does familiarity breed contempt? My car's going in Tuesday morning for an oil change, and I'll leave the phone with the service department and sales team and ask them to "sanitize" the audio system of all BT links and then re-couple my phone hoping I've pushed a wrong button somewhere along the way. It's not the end of the world that I need to couple every time ... three buttons to push ... but it's a nuisance that wasn't there initially. :shades:
> I cannot tell you how awesome the car came out with the P21S.
Congratulations! It is said that the carnuba wax based products "nourish" the paint, as opposed to polymer based sealants, such as Zaino, that merely protect it. Whether this is true and needed by the modern clear-coats or not is debatable. Keep us posted on how long Mother's lasts. </i
Just to be clear, I have used Mothers in the past, and I was very good. However it was dusty on removal and it did stain non painted surfaces. The product I wrote about in the post was P21S Carnuba wax. This was easier to apply and remove than the Mothers California Gold w/o cleaners.
It also rained here today and the water is falling off the car sitting in the driveway. I went out for a few minutes after it stopped and ran a quick errand, car is almonst dry. If this lasts, I will be very happy!
P21S 6.2 oz can cost was $ 29.95 at local detail shop on LI
I wish we have the same problem. Mine does not allow me to use bluetooth at all. At least, from the sounds of it, you can reset your phone and it works again. Mine does not. I will try the soft reset.
thank you. To soft reset the blackberry 7520 you remove the battery. I did that and presto, it works again with the car. Can you tell me why I lost connection in the first place? Thank you for solving it for me. Even if I have to soft reset every few weeks, it is ok since having the bluetooth is worth it for me.
Mine's leased, but while it's mine and I drive it I want it flawless. What's the best paint treatment? In 1957 I found Carnauba Wax to be the best to bring the black on my Ford Fairlane 500 convertible back to "perfect". (Yes, stick w/ steelpack mufflers; doesn't get any better than that.) I used every cleaner/wax product from 1961 - 1965 on my "Blue Hawaii" Dodge Phoenix convertible (if I find its twin I'll buy it). Used the cleaner/polish on my 1965 Bonneville convertible a month after taking delivery .. and ruined the paint job. The car was wonderful mechanically, but looked awful from the time I tried to make it "special". Bart
It's a software issue on the Blackberry. The Bluetooth software gets into an erroneous state (I don't want to use tech jargon here) by which it shutdowns when the connection from the car is terminated. Once it gets in that state, it needs to be restarted, and a sure way of doing it is a soft-reset (or hard-reset depending on the device). I worked years with Bluetooth and interoperability across devices (PDA, cars, headsets, etc) is still shaky. That, and given the prices of those PDAs, is why I wrote the Bluetooth patch for the Samsung i730 (see post #3819). It is so convenient to call from the voice recognition via BT...
Agree. If the FX has it the M should too. Just like rain sense wipers ( I forgot to list that as a disappointment) the Q45 has them but not the M. Makes no sense.
Y'all, I think this is one of the most over hyped features I've seen. The rain sensing wipers on my SL-class are no better than speed sensitive wipers. In fact, I find many cases where the rain sensors "feel" rain when there really isn't any and the wipers tend to stay on longer than necessary.
IMO, speed sensitives are as fancy as it needs to get.
Biggest downtick is the lack of availability of the high end stereo without all the tech gizmo's. Don't need them or want them. Highly adverse after MB experience.
The big difference between Infiniti and MB? The gizmos all work! Flawlessly I might add.
Interesting comments regarding polarized sunglasses - looks like 2 people have no problems at all. I was on a test drive and had nearly no readibility of the NAV screen until I took the glasses off. I did not try to turn my head 45 degrees up or down. There are lots of people on the freshalloy forum complaining about problems with polarized glasses.
I am wondering whether cars come with different screens or whether some sunglasses are differently polarized?
Comments
A good premium ... VERY good if you're getting maximum coverages with maximum deductibles. I'm paying $600 and change per six months to cover my M35 and my wife's Lexus GX470. No accidents, no speed violations since 1982.
Bart
I dumped my Samsung i730 today in favor of a Treo 650 from Verizon. It took me 5 minutes to realize it wasn't compatible with Infiniti so I took it back. Not possible to initiate a call from the Treo (concur with prior posts here). Gave up on phone/PDA and went back to the Motorola V815 and thus far it seems all's well. The Samsung easily flips out of its cheap plastic holster but it disables BT when leaving the car and doesn't re-link with the car's system on the way back from the grocery store.
Too much cost for too little results.
Bart
I've never had to enter a state --- I get options all over the place after entering the address and I simply select the right one. I can imagine the bedlam that Market or Central Street would create, however.
That's an incredible rate, with emphasis on "incredible". I'm with USAA and have the maximum coverages with maximum decudtible ($1000) and declined towing, etc, because both of our cars have manufacturer's roadside assistance. Uninsured/underinsured motorist max as well. I'm paying $650 per six months. I got a quote from GEICO for the same coverage ... $750 per six months. I also carry a large umbrella policy. Good driver discounts (no accidents in 20 years), no traffic citations, both of us over 60 and no kids around. Part of the AZ high premium reflects the high vehicle theft rate here PLUS the immense costs incurred by illegals driving here uninsured and intoxicated.
Your premium is so low if this is your first contract with State Farm, beware of premium hikes in the future. It isn't unheard of for companies to lure you in with gonga premiums and push you up next year. Good luck, and congratulations if it holds up.
No coin holder.( least on my model w/ my options). A nit I know, but I was looking for one. I use one of the cup holders instead. I shouldn't have to.
Power trunk closer. Would be nice for a $60K Lux car.
Good writeup, thanks. I have an '04 FX35 that has a power trunk closer, interesting the Ms do not. I keep coins in the ash tray of my cars.
Agree. If the FX has it the M should too. Just like rain sense wipers ( I forgot to list that as a disappointment) the Q45 has them but not the M. Makes no sense.
As to the power trunk, does the FX have a full lift-gate? In that case, I can see how it would be much more needed than on the M--not an excuse, just an observation.
Maybe Infiniti decided that some things on a sport luxury sedan are less important than a luxury sedan and hence left off a few purely luxo options. That is, if you want a sport sedan, you probably can close the trunk manually. This brings up probably one of the biggest disappoinments for many, though. Where is the manual trans option?
My personal biggest disappointment? No AWD on the 45. I would've loved that. Are you listening, Mr. Ghosn?
As for the power trunk, here's an alternative - install a metal license plate frame. This adds enough weight so the trunk is close to being evenly balanced. You can then easily lift and close the trunk with one finger.
Counting the days till my M35x arrives..........
Once again, doc, you're misinformed. You seem to be blaming the high insurance premiums on those unfortunte few people who are catastrophically injured in auto accidents. The catastrophic claims fund exists in Michigan because the no-fault insurers insisted on it in 1978. The insured person's insurer is liable for the first $300,000.00 of medical care in a catastrophic loss situation such as paralysis or disabling neurologic injury. The fund indemnifies the insurer for all reasonable and necessary medical care after the first 300k. All auto insurers that write policies in Michigan are required to pay into the fund to spread the risk for the relatively few catastrophic auto insurance claims that occur each year here in Michigan.
Because of no-fault insurance and the fund, guys like you are guaranteed to get your bills paid when treating an auto accident victim in Michigan. Meanwhile, people who are horribly injured in auto accidents are assured that they will receive the care they need. I'm not sure what your problem is with that arrangement. Only a very modest portion of your insurance premium is used to finance the fund.
There's an awful lot you don't know about the law, especially here in your own state. Claims of all kinds are way down, and premiums continue to climb. Things like caps, etc. have been in place here for nearly 10 years. Don't believe every line of crap that's fed to you.
By the way, I have an M35x and my premium is around $400/6 months with a $500 deductible, the highest avaialable liability limits, the highest available uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, etc.
Well I finally took delivery of my M35x with Journey, Tech, and MES, black/black last night and I must say I am very pleased with how it looked upon first glance in the dealer's garage all prepped for my delivery. The delivery process was a bit lengthy, but since I'm fairly familiar with the car and not fearful of all the gadgetry, I managed to slip out of there in under 2 hours with the expectation that I will follow up with my list of questions and clarifications.
As for your comments, I couldn't agree more. I too share some of your same likes and dislikes even though I haven't owned the car even 24 hours I've become very familiar with the several test drives I took as well as reading this forum on a regular basis.
My overall impressions as an owner of the car are phenomenal. I love the power, the rhaspy throttle sound as you hit the gas at about 70 mph. I was a little concerned about road noise on the highway, but now realize that at steady cruising speeds it is quiet enough for me and I especially like the throaty response once you hit the gas pedal to accelerate. As others have posted on initial tire pressure upon delivery, mine were at 45 psi and I will definitely get that down to a more normal level. I found that the ride was a little stiff, but not excessevily hars even at these psi levels, but I will definitely let some air out at my first opportunity.
I opted to go for the 2 year tire/wheel/dents, dings, and windshield protection policy for $300 and that was all - didn't go with the "teflon" coating paint protection, the "diamond" sealing on the windshields, extended warranty ($2,400 for 3 years on top of the factory warranty of 4) and all the other money making offers for the dealer that they presented me with. It's amazing all the gimmicks the dealer's try to sell. What is particularly most amusing is the sales pitch for the extended warranty. I just don't see from a present value of money perspective of forking over that kind of money to them for what has zero value until 48 months from today. Who knows where I or the car will be by then?!
I too looked at BMW, MB, Acura RL, etc. and concluded that for thousands less I am getting FAR MORE car than with any of the others. What I especially like the most is the "fun factor" of the car and how enjoyable and responsive it is from the power perspective. The only cars that came close are the used MB S-430 and BMW 745s I looked at, but these were someone else's 3 year old problems, which I didn't want. For about the same price as a 3 year old used S class or 745, I bought a BRAND NEW (2006 mind you) model with all the bells, whistles, and toys any gadget-happy guy could want, with looks, styling, power, and luxury to boot. Need I say more? The Infiniti M ROCKS, game over!!!
I am all for personal freedoms except when they infringe on others. If motorcyclists want to take their own life (or neurological well-being) into their own hands, fine. Just don't pass the buck onto my insurance carrier (and then me).
Lawdawg, are you a plaintiff's attorney by any chance? Peace.
The FX has a Power Close/Latch only and NOT a Power Lift. Thus all it really does is teach you how to not slam your trunk closed
What I'm really interested in is the updates that Palm released. Has anyone tried the "unlocked GSM" on a Cingular phone? Has anyone with Sprint installed the update and seen a noticeable difference?
I really like the TREO phone and am going to keep it....just hoping Palm is making progress on compatibility.
If they are only rain sensing, then you might. If they are rain sensing and speed sensitive, then you wouldn't.
Most rain sensing wipers have a sensitivity setting, but that doesn't affect the speed sensing part (if available).
The BMW's seem to wipe too soon (or when the winshield isn't even wet). The Lexus wipers work perfectly (at least they did on my test drive) without having to change any settings.
Maybe it is just a nit but I feel it will get to me over time...
Sit perfectly straight and centered in the driver's seat of an M35x. Now look at the center of the steering wheel where the Infiniti logo is. Do you see that the axis of the wheel is about 1 inch to the left from the center of your chest, or is it just me?
Assuming that it is not my imagination, I am not sure how the car could have been designed that lousy way. I understand that the center console hasto be large to house all the electronics (or maybe the transmission) but I do not find this comfortable. Hate driving twisted to the left. I must admit that during the test drive I paid more attention to the position of the brake pedal vs. the steering wheel (should be to the right of the axis to aid in emergency braking), so I did not notice this apparent flaw at that time.
Comments?
Also, I don't think there is a 12V power outlet in the trunk. Wonder how difficult this is to add?
I also heard the sunglass holder compartment gets burning hot in summer. Anybody has a good idea for better insulation?
Talking about sunglasses, if they are polarized it is impossible to read the NAV screen. I heard about companies selling quarter wave retarder films. Anybody have experience with them?
And last, who has good ideas for radar detector placement and hiding cables?
I decided to go back to my Palm and get the upgrade of the V710, the V815 ... supposedly identical but slightly upgraded. Guess what. Turns itself off when leaving the car and has to be coupled every time I get back in. Verizon says that's by design ... mexibec says it's a faulty unit. In any event, I'm back to the future and my V710 that's working just fine.
Please, if anyone here has a satisfactory experience with the V815 please post ASAP. Verizon's unwilling to let me trade back for a V710 (one for my wife, one for me) but if I have a defective unit that's another issue.
Bart
Finally, what do you all feel is the best radar detector? Is it the Valentine one? The last time I read anything about them (it's been a while), it seemed that this one was ranked at the top.
I ended up with a Solo because I didn't want a cord. Now if I could get a Valentine hard-wired to the rear-view mirror power source (and a good location near the mirror, yet unobtrusive), that would be great. I have a partner who has a setup like this in his S4.
As to sunglasses, I have polarized lenses and it only affects the screen slightly. If I tilt my head 45 degrees, it gets worse. What I have noticed is that I can't make the screen disappear completely like on some LCD screens.
I have the power cord run up the a-pillar in my Jag, then across the visors. I use the suction cups to mount it just above the drivers side of the mirror.
I'd do the same on my incoming M35x(Graphite/Graphite, Journey, Tech, chromes, FSS, Mats and spoiler) but I'm not sure the perforated black area around the mirror will let the signal through.
Any thoughts?
Do the sport seats make a difference?
Nope.
First impressions of a short test drive of a M45 Sport versus the E500:
Excellent value proposition.
Getting closer to the German driving experience - why I bought MB over Lexus.
Exterior styling acceptable. Not boring, but not particularly eye catching.
Back seat has more legroom. Almost no one can sit behind in the MB when the seats are fully back.
Interior styling still trying to warm up to. Would probably choose aluminum. Definitely a step down from MB in both design and material quality, at least when compared to MB full leather. Find the door pulls not well done at all but de gustibus...
Biggest downtick is the lack of availability of the high end stereo without all the tech gizmo's. Don't need them or want them. Highly adverse after MB experience.
Dealer (Chicago) had almost none to look at color combos in person. Will go back when the new building opens and selection is greater for another look and drive. Wife likes the Audi 8L better but it's a big car for a lot more money.
I'm waiting for a M45 sport to be delivered hopefully in 10 days from California. The past 2 1/2 months I've test drove Lexus 300 and 430, MB CLS500, BMW 525 and Infiniti M35, M45. I bought the M45 with Tech option.
I feel the exterior design could be more daring instead of being conservertive. I like the CLS 500 exterior design better. Then, I prefer the M45 had more head room for the front and the back seats.
lexus 430 is quite nice if you like softer ride.
It's all matter of personal choice. Good luck and have fun!
Same seats. Car's Achilles heel.
Absolutely not an issue. All of my sunglasses are polarized and they haven't any material effect on visibility of the screen. None.
I'm the one who posted that, and here in Tucson (where we're in our 33rd consecutive day above 100 with no relief in sight) it's impossible to store glasses in that compartment. I've tried using a soft corduroy insulated case but to no avail. I have resorted to leaving it open and dangling when parked --- it's the only way I've found to keep them marginally tolerable. This is particularly troublesome with metal frames ... some of the newer synthetic plastic frames are more acceptable.
Talking about sunglasses, if they are polarized it is impossible to read the NAV screen. I heard about companies selling quarter wave retarder films. Anybody have experience with them?
This is categorically incorrect. I'm in the eye business, and every pair of sunglasses I own are polarized. There is NO difficulty whatsoever seeing the NAV screen under any conditions. This is true in my wife's Lexus as well. I can't read the face on my Palm Pilot; that's true. But viewing the NAV screen is not affected at all.
My overall impressions as an owner of the car are phenomenal. I love the power, the rhaspy throttle sound as you hit the gas at about 70 mph.
Not very good for the engine to crank it up that high this early. As I recall they recommend keeping the rpm's < 4000 for the first 1200 miles. Cruising at 70's OK; goosing it at 70 isn't healthy.
I cannot tell you how awesome the car came out with the P21S. I can't wait to see how long it lasts. Product is easy on and off. No dust. Applied with applicator, remove with microfiber towel. Fast and 10x easier than anything else I have ever used.
Only disapointment is that I did find a small nick o the front bumper. Size of a staple where the paint is gone. Any ideas on how to fix without bringing more attention that its worth? It really bothers me. Otrher than that- Love this car. I wish it came with a CD to run through the features. My Volvo came with a Video tape. Still not the master of all features.
Thanks to everyone for their help.
Jeff
Congratulations! It is said that the carnuba wax based products "nourish" the paint, as opposed to polymer based sealants, such as Zaino, that merely protect it. Whether this is true and needed by the modern clear-coats or not is debatable. Keep us posted on how long Mother's lasts.
tomc: That's exactly the experience I had with my V710 from Verizon and posted a couple of days ago. From day #1 it worked great ... the moment I entered the car the phone and the car's audio system locked onto each other. I must now link up every time I get in the car. Does familiarity breed contempt?
> I cannot tell you how awesome the car came out with the P21S.
Congratulations! It is said that the carnuba wax based products "nourish" the paint, as opposed to polymer based sealants, such as Zaino, that merely protect it. Whether this is true and needed by the modern clear-coats or not is debatable. Keep us posted on how long Mother's lasts. </i
Just to be clear, I have used Mothers in the past, and I was very good. However it was dusty on removal and it did stain non painted surfaces. The product I wrote about in the post was P21S Carnuba wax. This was easier to apply and remove than the Mothers California Gold w/o cleaners.
It also rained here today and the water is falling off the car sitting in the driveway. I went out for a few minutes after it stopped and ran a quick errand, car is almonst dry. If this lasts, I will be very happy!
P21S 6.2 oz can cost was $ 29.95 at local detail shop on LI
Front Offset - Best Pick (all Goods)
Side Impact - Mostly Goods, Two Acceptables
Y'all, I think this is one of the most over hyped features I've seen. The rain sensing wipers on my SL-class are no better than speed sensitive wipers. In fact, I find many cases where the rain sensors "feel" rain when there really isn't any and the wipers tend to stay on longer than necessary.
IMO, speed sensitives are as fancy as it needs to get.
The big difference between Infiniti and MB? The gizmos all work! Flawlessly I might add.
I am wondering whether cars come with different screens or whether some sunglasses are differently polarized?