Congrats on the new car! The reason you haven't seen anyone post about the lack of garage door openers is that it is an option. My LTZ has it. HomeLink is no longer the company providing it though. I actually like the new setup better (no need to use the remote from the door to set up rolling code openers now).
I relize It's not V4 I was just stateing 4 or 6 any way I did drive both on highway the 6 is WOW on power I was doing 70 and hit the gas and (don't tell) I was at 100 like now, since we do keep our cars for a long time I'm still leaning to the 6, unless someone here can sway me to the 4. I also like the 6 for the 6 speed verse the 4 speed with the 4.
If you don't care about mpg today or or what fuel prices may be many years from now (since you said you plan to keep the car for a long time), then just get the V6.
I traded in a G6 for my malibu. Thought it was interesting that Mother GM is repurchasing all G6's that have after market leather. It is interfering with the airbags and GM cannot correct it.
concur...if its an aftermarket product meaning you made a modification to the car....how and why would GM buy it back....because it now causes a problem???
So dismissive. The poster was talking about installing aftermarket leather in their 2008 Malibu. They have been warned of loss of warranty (which will mean there is some risk of airbag failure and no one will take responsibility for injury or death resulting from this) and have decided to go ahead and take the risk because they like the way the aftermarket leather looks. GM will not back it after the seats have been messed with and certainly the leather installers or dealer will not warranty the functionality of the airbags nor assume any liability for its failure.
It was an old issue, with only a few models, where leather through a specific supplier was used and then a possible airbag issue was discovered. It is nothing to worry about anymore, and was very limited, and when GM learned of it, they came up with a plan to resolve it.
Here is the actual recal. I'm sure that they have come up with a solution to this problem by now, but thought it was a very interesting since my Malibu is the product of a repurchased G6
Recall Date: OCT 31, 2006
Model Affected: 2006 PONTIAC G6
Summary: CERTAIN VEHICLES ORIGINALLY BUILT WITH CLOTH SEATS THAT WERE EQUIPPED WITH AN AUTOMATIC AIR BAG PASSENGER SENSING SYSTEM AND LATER REUPHOLSTERED WITH AFTERMARKET LEATHER SEAT COVER KITS ARE INVOLVED. TESTING HAS INDICATED THAT THE AFTERMARKET LEATHER SEAT COVERS CAN CAUSE THE PASSENGER SENSING SYSTEM TO MALFUNCTION.
Consequence: IF THE PASSENGER SENSING SYSTEM MALFUNCTIONS, THE FRONT AIR BAG ON THE PASSENGER SIDE MAY BE DISABLED WHEN IT SHOULD BE ENABLED, OR ENABLED WHEN IT SHOULD BE DISABLED. IN EITHER CASE, IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH THAT REQUIRES AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT, A FRONT PASSENGER'S LEVEL OF INJURY MAY BE INCREASED.
Remedy: BECAUSE A REPLACEMENT LEATHER SEAT COVER THAT IS COMPATIBLE WITH THE PASSENGER SENSING SYSTEM IS NOT AVAILABLE, GENERAL MOTORS (GM) WILL REPURCHASE THESE VEHICLES IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE TERMS STATED IN GM¿S LETTER TO OWNERS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 6, 2006. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT GM AT 1-877-477-1022 TO BEGIN THE PROCESS OF REPURCHASING THEIR VEHICLE.
Thanks for the link but it doesn't completely clear up the issue for me. The bulletin doesn't state what the solution was. Before we dismiss this issue the OP stated GM was offering buyouts for the after market leather issue. Did offer to GM buy back all 794 vehicles because someone added an after market product? As a potential Malibu owner I'd like to know what GM did for the safety recall.
I travel quite a bit and have now rented two '08 Malibu from Hertz in different cities and was confused as it did not have Onstar or XM? Does anyone know if you can buy one from Chevy without as I thought these weren't optional?
Yes. Though the models are actually the same, most often companies like Enterprise, Hertz, etc. order the vehicles with Onstar and XM deletes, to lower the prices and prevent there being any use or complications with the systems with random renters trying either out.
Rather than it being there, and just not having a subscription, etc., it's easier and lower cost to just delete it--which they do. My '07 Malibu rental, for instance, was a 1LT with everything a 1LT has...except for Onstar.
Actually, no. The models aren't the same. Fleets can get the 3.5l 6cyl w/4 speed auto (same as 06 Malibu), where retail can't. Retail are strictly the 2.4l 4cyl w/4 speed auto or the 3.6l 6cyl (DOHC) w/6 speed auto for now, with a 2.4l 4cyl w/6 speed auto combo coming sometime later in the year (rumors differ on whether it'll be mid-model-year 07 or model year 08 though).
The rear seat backrest unlatched and came flying forward. That could not have been safe if there were passengers (or a baby in a car seat) in the backseat,
They are built in Kansas City. There is demand for it, but it's much less demand than there is for Accords and Camrys. They problem is that the production is slow for some reason so dealers only get a few at a time. They can't sell what they don't get shipped to the lots.
If the Malibu is in such short supply why are Boston area dealerships offering $2,000+ off MSRP on the LS? I see one dealer’s price down to $17,775 already. It is criminal to start discounting so soon and maybe GM should send a $1,500 voucher to early buyers who feeling so ripped off reminiscent of the iphone debacle.
The dealers in my area are starting to get a better supply now also. So, if they dealers local to you have plenty in stock, there is no reason for them to not start discounting more especially if most 07s are gone.. They will all start discounting once they have a good supply.
When you can sell every one on the lot with little to no discounting as is, there will NOT be rebates. You want cash on the hood, go to Ford, Chrysler, Toyota, Nissan, etc.
Yes, there are some larger dealers who actually are getting some finally on the lot and even offering discounts just because, but that's simply not common yet. It's a great car, and a hot seller--for obvious reasons--at that.
This will not be the Malibu of old that sold in huge numbers to corporate fleets, rental agencies, etc. and then always had cash laying on the hood. If you want that, go for the larger--but cramped inside and drab--rental special Impala, which they'll sell to you all day if you're a coupon buyer.
Using OnStar for regular calls is extremely expensive and on top of that it's very inconvenient to deal with another phone number and maybe turning call forwarding on and off as you get in and out of the car as a workaround. What a hassle! Bluetooth is just simple. It turns on and off automatically as you step in and out of the car and you only have to deal with one phone number and one phone bill.
Jaxs1, Onstar has an arrangement with Verizon (for $69.95 a month) where you use the in-car phone as your regular phone. So you have the best of both worlds, hands-free calling and talking and a regular cell phone for everyday use. One number, one bill, no call forwarding. Oh, by the way, for incoming or outgoing calls the stereo is muted automatically and quality of the calls are exceptional. No more drop calls.
Bluetooth will also automatically mute the stereo for calls.
Why would anyone want to have to switch carriers just to use their phone in their car? Not everyone uses wants to switch to Verizon (which has higher than average rates or pay a termination fee to switch), upgrade to the $69.99 Family Plan with the car as a second line and then forward calls to the car when you are in the car and then unforward them when you get out so you don't miss calls.
I know you said, no call forwarding, but how else is it going to work? You must call-forward between the car and your handset.
Q. How does the Verizon Wireless handset work with the OnStar system? A. A subscriber to Nationwide Calling with OnStar may use their minutes to make and receive calls using the Verizon Wireless handset or OnStar Hands-Free Calling. If a customer wishes to transfer any incoming calls to the vehicle to take advantage of the benefits of the OnStar Hands-Free Calling, they can choose from two options:
- Immediate Call Forwarding - The user can forward all calls from the Verizon Wireless handset directly to the vehicle. - Conditional Call Forwarding (No Answer/Busy Transfer) - The user's Verizon Wireless handset will ring approximately four times before it is forwarded to the vehicle.
Q. When using OnStar Hands-Free Calling, are customers still able to receive call-waiting and voicemail? A. The call-waiting option is not available in the vehicle. Voicemail is not available when forwarding calls from the Verizon Wireless handset to the OnStar Hands-Free Calling. When using just the Verizon Wireless handset, the handset will operate normally allowing the customer to have voicemail, call-waiting and other calling features.
So you lose voicemail and call waiting if you have calls fowarded to the car. If you forget to turn off call forwarding when you leave the car, not only will the calls continue to be sent to the car's number, but the callers will not be able to leave a voicemail message.
In addition to that, if you are on a call and either enter or exit the car, you will need to hang up and redial from the other phone to continue the call. With bluetooth, the call will transfer from the handset to the handsfree without dropping the call.
It makes no sense to pay more money for something less convenient than bluetooth.
The only advantage I see is that you should be able to get better reception in marginal Verizon service areas because OnStar uses an external antenna on the car's roof rather than your phone's antenna inside the car. Too much money and inconvenience for that benefit for most people.
Factory installed Bluetooth is coming for many 2009 GM models. Probably the 2009 Malibu also. In the meantime, one of the cleanest looking units you can get installed aftermarket is this one that installs into one of the cigarette lighter sockets.
We are considering buying a 2008 Malibu that is part of a "captured fleet" from general motors. These cars are available to gm employees only and have miles on them (pep cars). We're concerned about buying one of the first ones off the line - not all build problems are resolved. The last six digits of a vin number indicates the build number, but I've read that not all vin build numbers begin with 100001. Does anyone have inside information where the production numbers started?
The look...trippy. GM finally took a chance on being a bit daring with style with that Malibu interior. At this point design wise, why doesn't GM go for broke with all of its cars?
The bad thing about it is that you have no choice if you want the LTZ model only so you can get the 6-speed with 4 cylinder or any other unique LTZ features.
jaxs1, I agree the plan is a bit expensive for those who do not have a Verizon plan. Still, for existing Verizon subscribers this is a terrific plan. With "Conditional Call Forwarding - The user's Verizon Wireless handset will ring approximately four times before it is forwarded to the vehicle."
GM does mention that OnStar does not now support bluetooth technology as it comprises the many safety features of OnStar.
They were just making excuses to help protect their revenue stream. They have finally decided to give customers what they have been asking for starting in 2009 and after years of resistance. They will still continue to have OnStar for those who want to use OnStar in addition to or instead of bluetooth. Having bluetooth doesn't mean OnStar doesn't work.
You still have to unforward the calls when you leave the car or you will miss calls and the caller will not be able to leave voicemail. This is very inconvenient. Not to mention that you cannot continue your call when entering or leaving the vehicle. If you are driving while out of the Verizon coverage area and the calls are forwarded to the car's phone, not only will you not receive the call, but the caller will not be able to leave a voicemail like they would if the call went to your cell. You will not know anyone had tried to call you. Same thing if you step out of the car to get gas or run into the store and don't want to hassle with unforwarding your calls.
Even if you already had a Verizon wireless plan, you will have to pay extra for a family plan and still deal with all these inconveniences. The majority of people are not on Verizon and it will not be attractive at all to switch, pay more and deal with all that forwarding and unforwarding clunkiness, lose voicemail and lose the ability to transfer calls back and forth from handset to handsfree..
hey guys, i know this forum regards the 2008 malibu, but i have a very pressing question regarding an earlier malibu? i dont know where else to go because there are hundreds of post on this forum daily, i hope someone can help me?
I own a 1999 malibu, it has a 3.1 V6 engine. i intend on finishing the car as a show car this summer, so it will not be a daily driver, just an occasional hot rodder and show off. Ive stumbled upon a supercharger for this engine. is it a good idea to purchase and install this supercharger. keep in mind that its a front-wheel drive, so ive been told the drive terrain will be under enormous stress with such a dramatic power increase. can anyone here help me?
and also, soes anyone know where i might find a custom speedometer cluster for my car?
This comment may sound a bit "anti-GM", but isn't meant to be...
I think On-Star was a great innovation originally, but, like so many things in GM's history, it failed to keep it at the forefront of innovation. On-Star is a great example of this...When it was first offered, cellphones weren't the standard that they are today, and for many owners, On-Star provided emergency communications. The operating environment has changed dramatically since the introduction of On-Star.
GM has relied on On-Star for in-car communications well beyond reason. As you stated so correctly, bluetooth is far ahead with functionality. Up to now, GM has declined to embrace bluetooth, although there isn't any technical reason to not offer both.
As an example, BMW offers BMW-Assist (its version of On-Star) along side bluetooth in its vehicles. That way, the owner has the ability to have the best of both worlds. It is available as an accessory, but not as a standard feature, as far as I know.
Also, in many vehicles, GM continued to utilize the analog version of OnStar, well after the FCC announced the elimination of analog services. I believe that analog was still being installed even as late as 2004-05 in some models. In less expensive vehicles, On-Star wasn't even available.
Failing to capitalize on its innovations is a major complaint that many have had with GM over the years...almost as if there was/is a disconnect between the engineer, marketing/sales, and management arms within GM.
As for me, I absolutely love bluetooth, and I will never own another vehicle without it. Once you become accustomed to it, its difficult to be without it.
By the way, GM isn't alone in its slim bluetooth offerings...VW doesn't offer it in its Beetle or Jetta (as of 2008), which is strange, since hands-free phones are the law in Germany.
I am interested to see how Ford progresses with its hands-free technolical offerings driven by Microsoft. It looks good, at least in the advertisements.
I would never limit my vehicle choice on whether it has bluetooth or not especially since I have a Garmin GPS that has bluetooth. My cell works great with it on my non bluetooth/Nav equipped vehicle.
I understand your thinking, but quite frankly, more and more vehicles/manufacturers are offering bluetooth capabilities. In just about any vehicle that I would consider buying (but, maybe not in every single case), just due to the options and accessories that I would want, bluetooth is also offered. I also have a Garmin that I use in 2 of my older vehicles without bluetooth, and it also works great.
Since I personally hate cellphones and only use them under duress and never in the car, for me it's a nonissue. Why people feel the need to be constantly on the phone has always been a mystery to me.
I hear you loud and clear....the only time I use mine is for incomming calls. With 2 daughters, I sometimes get a lot of calls. That is why I like a handsfree system.
Personally, and I know this idea might tweak off some folks, but I wish we were like Germany, which requires all cell phones in cars to be handsfree (for the driver only, obviously).
I have experienced several "near hits" by folks suffering from OCD (Obsessive Cellphone Distraction). My wife even got rear-ended last year by some crank driving while playing on his laptop computer.
Bluetooth is rumored to be coming, possibly as early as next model year. And it *will* be beside the existing OnStar system. That still leaves the lack of an optional built in nav, which unfortunately is related to the limitations of the current architecture the car is built on. Not that most of us care- I'd much rather have an aftermarket portable that can go with me regardless of vehicle (or lack of one), as well as be much less expensive, or even free, to update, not to mention simply costing quite a bit less up front.
I could not agree more with any post I've ever seen on these Edmund's boards. Just who the heck are these people talking to all the time? And my goodness, how ever did these same people get by before cell phones? Are we that afraid to be alone that we need to in touch with someone all the time? And, how the heck do you text message and drive?
I've lost count about how many times I've almost been in an accident because of someone with a cell phone not paying attention. Not to mention the clueless pedestrians oblivious to traffic when they are walking while talking, usually against the light!
I do have a cellphone, and it's with me when I drive--it's for emergency use only. Driving takes all of ones senses, especially in the urban area of Northern VA/Wash DC. It's tough enough out there as it is, let alone having to be vigilant of those paying attention to everything else in their car but the act of driving safely!
Thanks, I feel better now.
Oh, to stay on message, I'm going to special order a 2LT Malibu tomorrow, unless my dealer can find me one exactly as I want it.
Well, people have cell phones now and they use them. Using it over bluetooth is better than them fumbling with their handsets and looking for the ringing hone while driving.
I certainly can understand why some folks prefer a portable NAV system, due to costs, portability, and update-ability concerns.
For some, however, a factory installed option is preferred, as it is much less likely to be stolen if it is buit into the dash, and for someone say, in sales, it is much more convenient to have a NAV "on tap" at any time.
Again, I can see both sides of the issue.
I guess I am a "hybrid", in that I have 2 vehicles with a factory NAV and a Garmin for my other vehicles without the NAV.
I did have one question, though... In your post, you said that ...
Bluetooth is rumored to be coming, possibly as early as next model year. And it *will* be beside the existing OnStar system. That still leaves the lack of an optional built in nav, which unfortunately is related to the limitations of the current architecture the car is built on.
Could you please explain what you meant by current architecture limitations? What makes this model incompatible with a factory NAV system? I'm afraid I don't understand...
They just don't make a factory nav system for the Malibu. It isn't the bluetooth that's preventing it. They have the OnStar service that will give you audio directions with some text displayed on the radio screen while you drive. You get 1 year of it included free with purchase of the car.
Its bad enough to have to compete with phones for driver's attention on the road, but I was "run-down" the other day in a grocery store by a woman pushing her shopping cart and yaking into her cellphone. And, as my incident demonstrated, she was using a hands-free earpiece at the time, pushing a shopping cart down an 8 foot+ wide isle, and still managed to hit me...and I'm a pretty big target...220 lbs!
So ,bluetooth isn't a panacea, although I would rather have it required than not in a vehicle...
I'm afraid we don't stand much of a chance against folks like this if we happen to meet them on the highway...
Comments
GM will not back it after the seats have been messed with and certainly the leather installers or dealer will not warranty the functionality of the airbags nor assume any liability for its failure.
It was an old issue, with only a few models, where leather through a specific supplier was used and then a possible airbag issue was discovered. It is nothing to worry about anymore, and was very limited, and when GM learned of it, they came up with a plan to resolve it.
http://www.gminsidenews.com/forums/showthread.php?t=39637
Back to the Malibu...and not about the G6, and other limited past issues.
Recall Date:
OCT 31, 2006
Model Affected:
2006 PONTIAC G6
Summary:
CERTAIN VEHICLES ORIGINALLY BUILT WITH CLOTH SEATS THAT WERE EQUIPPED WITH AN AUTOMATIC AIR BAG PASSENGER SENSING SYSTEM AND LATER REUPHOLSTERED WITH AFTERMARKET LEATHER SEAT COVER KITS ARE INVOLVED. TESTING HAS INDICATED THAT THE AFTERMARKET LEATHER SEAT COVERS CAN CAUSE THE PASSENGER SENSING SYSTEM TO MALFUNCTION.
Consequence:
IF THE PASSENGER SENSING SYSTEM MALFUNCTIONS, THE FRONT AIR BAG ON THE PASSENGER SIDE MAY BE DISABLED WHEN IT SHOULD BE ENABLED, OR ENABLED WHEN IT SHOULD BE DISABLED. IN EITHER CASE, IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH THAT REQUIRES AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT, A FRONT PASSENGER'S LEVEL OF INJURY MAY BE INCREASED.
Remedy:
BECAUSE A REPLACEMENT LEATHER SEAT COVER THAT IS COMPATIBLE WITH THE PASSENGER SENSING SYSTEM IS NOT AVAILABLE, GENERAL MOTORS (GM) WILL REPURCHASE THESE VEHICLES IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE TERMS STATED IN GM¿S LETTER TO OWNERS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 6, 2006. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT GM AT 1-877-477-1022 TO BEGIN THE PROCESS OF REPURCHASING THEIR VEHICLE.
Potential Units Affected:
794
They've been doing aftermarket leather for years, and nary a problem.
http://www.gmfleet.com/pages/submodelOptionalEquipment/2008_Chevrolet_Malibu+Fle- et.jsp
Rather than it being there, and just not having a subscription, etc., it's easier and lower cost to just delete it--which they do. My '07 Malibu rental, for instance, was a 1LT with everything a 1LT has...except for Onstar.
2009 model year.
http://www.safercar.gov/movie/2008/08Malibu-f.wmv
The rear seat backrest unlatched and came flying forward. That could not have been safe if there were passengers (or a baby in a car seat) in the backseat,
There is demand for it, but it's much less demand than there is for Accords and Camrys.
They problem is that the production is slow for some reason so dealers only get a few at a time.
They can't sell what they don't get shipped to the lots.
They will all start discounting once they have a good supply.
Chevy, GM's flagship brand, saw sales drop 11.2% to 166,166 cars and trucks.
http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/ford-gm-toyota-all-sell/story.aspx?guid=%7- B5D3BEE1B%2DEABC%2D4642%2DBB8F%2D78339D9574EE%7D
Chevy, GM's flagship brand, saw sales drop 11.2% to 166,166 cars and trucks.
http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/ford-gm-toyota-all-sell/story.aspx?guid=%7- B5D3BEE1B%2DEABC%2D4642%2DBB8F%2D78339D9574EE%7D
Yes, there are some larger dealers who actually are getting some finally on the lot and even offering discounts just because, but that's simply not common yet. It's a great car, and a hot seller--for obvious reasons--at that.
This will not be the Malibu of old that sold in huge numbers to corporate fleets, rental agencies, etc. and then always had cash laying on the hood. If you want that, go for the larger--but cramped inside and drab--rental special Impala, which they'll sell to you all day if you're a coupon buyer.
What a hassle!
Bluetooth is just simple. It turns on and off automatically as you step in and out of the car and you only have to deal with one phone number and one phone bill.
Jaxs1, Onstar has an arrangement with Verizon (for $69.95 a month) where you use the in-car phone as your regular phone. So you have the best of both worlds, hands-free calling and talking and a regular cell phone for everyday use. One number, one bill, no call forwarding. Oh, by the way, for incoming or outgoing calls the stereo is muted automatically and quality of the calls are exceptional. No more drop calls.
Why would anyone want to have to switch carriers just to use their phone in their car?
Not everyone uses wants to switch to Verizon (which has higher than average rates or pay a termination fee to switch), upgrade to the $69.99 Family Plan with the car as a second line and then forward calls to the car when you are in the car and then unforward them when you get out so you don't miss calls.
I know you said, no call forwarding, but how else is it going to work? You must call-forward between the car and your handset.
On their website it explains how it works:
http://solutions.vzwshop.com/OnStar/?page=faq
Q. How does the Verizon Wireless handset work with the OnStar system?
A. A subscriber to Nationwide Calling with OnStar may use their minutes to make and receive calls using the Verizon Wireless handset or OnStar Hands-Free Calling. If a customer wishes to transfer any incoming calls to the vehicle to take advantage of the benefits of the OnStar Hands-Free Calling, they can choose from two options:
- Immediate Call Forwarding - The user can forward all calls from the Verizon Wireless handset directly to the vehicle.
- Conditional Call Forwarding (No Answer/Busy Transfer) - The user's Verizon Wireless handset will ring approximately four times before it is forwarded to the vehicle.
Q. When using OnStar Hands-Free Calling, are customers still able to receive call-waiting and voicemail?
A. The call-waiting option is not available in the vehicle. Voicemail is not available when forwarding calls from the Verizon Wireless handset to the OnStar Hands-Free Calling. When using just the Verizon Wireless handset, the handset will operate normally allowing the customer to have voicemail, call-waiting and other calling features.
So you lose voicemail and call waiting if you have calls fowarded to the car.
If you forget to turn off call forwarding when you leave the car, not only will the calls continue to be sent to the car's number, but the callers will not be able to leave a voicemail message.
In addition to that, if you are on a call and either enter or exit the car, you will need to hang up and redial from the other phone to continue the call. With bluetooth, the call will transfer from the handset to the handsfree without dropping the call.
It makes no sense to pay more money for something less convenient than bluetooth.
The only advantage I see is that you should be able to get better reception in marginal Verizon service areas because OnStar uses an external antenna on the car's roof rather than your phone's antenna inside the car.
Too much money and inconvenience for that benefit for most people.
Here is a user posting. http://blogs.edmunds.com/roadtests/1217?@@
They apparently assumed voicemail would be available for missed calls based on their comments.
Factory installed Bluetooth is coming for many 2009 GM models. Probably the 2009 Malibu also.
In the meantime, one of the cleanest looking units you can get installed aftermarket is this one that installs into one of the cigarette lighter sockets.
http://www.vizualogic.com/cig_blue.html
The last six digits of a vin number indicates the build number, but I've read that not all vin build numbers begin with 100001. Does anyone have inside information where the production numbers started?
GM does mention that OnStar does not now support bluetooth technology as it comprises the many safety features of OnStar.
They will still continue to have OnStar for those who want to use OnStar in addition to or instead of bluetooth. Having bluetooth doesn't mean OnStar doesn't work.
You still have to unforward the calls when you leave the car or you will miss calls and the caller will not be able to leave voicemail. This is very inconvenient. Not to mention that you cannot continue your call when entering or leaving the vehicle.
If you are driving while out of the Verizon coverage area and the calls are forwarded to the car's phone, not only will you not receive the call, but the caller will not be able to leave a voicemail like they would if the call went to your cell. You will not know anyone had tried to call you.
Same thing if you step out of the car to get gas or run into the store and don't want to hassle with unforwarding your calls.
Even if you already had a Verizon wireless plan, you will have to pay extra for a family plan and still deal with all these inconveniences.
The majority of people are not on Verizon and it will not be attractive at all to switch, pay more and deal with all that forwarding and unforwarding clunkiness, lose voicemail and lose the ability to transfer calls back and forth from handset to handsfree..
I own a 1999 malibu, it has a 3.1 V6 engine. i intend on finishing the car as a show car this summer, so it will not be a daily driver, just an occasional hot rodder and show off. Ive stumbled upon a supercharger for this engine. is it a good idea to purchase and install this supercharger. keep in mind that its a front-wheel drive, so ive been told the drive terrain will be under enormous stress with such a dramatic power increase. can anyone here help me?
and also, soes anyone know where i might find a custom speedometer cluster for my car?
I think On-Star was a great innovation originally, but, like so many things in GM's history, it failed to keep it at the forefront of innovation. On-Star is a great example of this...When it was first offered, cellphones weren't the standard that they are today, and for many owners, On-Star provided emergency communications. The operating environment has changed dramatically since the introduction of On-Star.
GM has relied on On-Star for in-car communications well beyond reason. As you stated so correctly, bluetooth is far ahead with functionality. Up to now, GM has declined to embrace bluetooth, although there isn't any technical reason to not offer both.
As an example, BMW offers BMW-Assist (its version of On-Star) along side bluetooth in its vehicles. That way, the owner has the ability to have the best of both worlds. It is available as an accessory, but not as a standard feature, as far as I know.
Also, in many vehicles, GM continued to utilize the analog version of OnStar, well after the FCC announced the elimination of analog services. I believe that analog was still being installed even as late as 2004-05 in some models. In less expensive vehicles, On-Star wasn't even available.
Failing to capitalize on its innovations is a major complaint that many have had with GM over the years...almost as if there was/is a disconnect between the engineer, marketing/sales, and management arms within GM.
As for me, I absolutely love bluetooth, and I will never own another vehicle without it. Once you become accustomed to it, its difficult to be without it.
By the way, GM isn't alone in its slim bluetooth offerings...VW doesn't offer it in its Beetle or Jetta (as of 2008), which is strange, since hands-free phones are the law in Germany.
I am interested to see how Ford progresses with its hands-free technolical offerings driven by Microsoft. It looks good, at least in the advertisements.
PS: I saved a bundle also.
Personally, and I know this idea might tweak off some folks, but I wish we were like Germany, which requires all cell phones in cars to be handsfree (for the driver only, obviously).
I have experienced several "near hits" by folks suffering from OCD (Obsessive Cellphone Distraction). My wife even got rear-ended last year by some crank driving while playing on his laptop computer.
Lots of distractions out there....
I've lost count about how many times I've almost been in an accident because of someone with a cell phone not paying attention. Not to mention the clueless pedestrians oblivious to traffic when they are walking while talking, usually against the light!
I do have a cellphone, and it's with me when I drive--it's for emergency use only. Driving takes all of ones senses, especially in the urban area of Northern VA/Wash DC. It's tough enough out there as it is, let alone having to be vigilant of those paying attention to everything else in their car but the act of driving safely!
Thanks, I feel better now.
Oh, to stay on message, I'm going to special order a 2LT Malibu tomorrow, unless my dealer can find me one exactly as I want it.
For some, however, a factory installed option is preferred, as it is much less likely to be stolen if it is buit into the dash, and for someone say, in sales, it is much more convenient to have a NAV "on tap" at any time.
Again, I can see both sides of the issue.
I guess I am a "hybrid", in that I have 2 vehicles with a factory NAV and a Garmin for my other vehicles without the NAV.
I did have one question, though... In your post, you said that ...
Bluetooth is rumored to be coming, possibly as early as next model year. And it *will* be beside the existing OnStar system. That still leaves the lack of an optional built in nav, which unfortunately is related to the limitations of the current architecture the car is built on.
Could you please explain what you meant by current architecture limitations? What makes this model incompatible with a factory NAV system? I'm afraid I don't understand...
Thanks!
They have the OnStar service that will give you audio directions with some text displayed on the radio screen while you drive. You get 1 year of it included free with purchase of the car.
So ,bluetooth isn't a panacea, although I would rather have it required than not in a vehicle...
I'm afraid we don't stand much of a chance against folks like this if we happen to meet them on the highway...
By the way, she did appologize....