Honestly....I have nothing else to add about the Cadillac ordeal. I can't add anything that I haven't already said over and over and over. No matter some of the comments, Cadillac screwed the pooch with me. In addition to me, they lost about a dozen potential customers just me talking to people who asked how I liked my car. They lost a bunch with me, too! They come across as a bunch of arrogant buffoons.
my local go-to used car place is getting a nice sounding GS350 in. Dark gray (Nebula?) over Flaxen (medium brownish). I looked up pictures online and it looks snazzy. Pretty loaded (even though a base) with rear heated seats, navi, BLIS and lane watch, etc. A 2013.
I always liked these when I sat in them at the car show, but have never driven one. Might have to go check one out in person some day.
Not positive, but I think engine stop/start would drive me nuts. unless it was totally undetectable.
Forgive my ignorance of car letter-number naming but what brand is a GS350? Why car companies got away from specific names like Deville or Mustang puzzles me.
The stop-start feature would drive me crazy as well. Having many a car in the past with a stop-stall-no start feature I would always think something was broken.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
2011 Toyota Camry, 2014 Jeep Wrangler, 2017 Honda Civic Coupe, 2019 Toyota Rav4 Hybrid XSE, 2021 Toyota Tundra, 2022 Toyota 4Runner, 2022 Tesla Model 3
NJ guys (speaking of, where is @fezo), I was at a wedding in Red Bank over the weekend. That's quite a town. Parked on the street I saw an MB SLS AMG, an Alfa Romeo 8C, a slew of AMGs & ///M cars.
Hey, that's where we were Sat evening at the exotic car boutique dealership.
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
Glad it all worked out for you. I had a horrible GM experience as well, and attempted a buy back. This was back in 2000 with a 99 Olds 88. I finally tired and just traded out of the car at a loss. I spent a good bit of time away from GM and told my story all the time. I've since gone back, but hearing stories like yours make me cringe.
My SIL had a terrible time with a lemon Mercedes ML, with an eventual attorney and buy-back taking place over a 12 mos. time period. Having an intimate knowledge of the company's arrogance and obstinence, however, didn't keep me from obtaining two brand new E-Class Benzes following this. The Cadillac experience, however, would definitely give me pause.
my local go-to used car place is getting a nice sounding GS350 in. Dark gray (Nebula?) over Flaxen (medium brownish). I looked up pictures online and it looks snazzy. Pretty loaded (even though a base) with rear heated seats, navi, BLIS and lane watch, etc. A 2013.
I always liked these when I sat in them at the car show, but have never driven one. Might have to go check one out in person some day.
Not positive, but I think engine stop/start would drive me nuts. unless it was totally undetectable.
Forgive my ignorance of car letter-number naming but what brand is a GS350? Why car companies got away from specific names like Deville or Mustang puzzles me.
The stop-start feature would drive me crazy as well. Having many a car in the past with a stop-stall-no start feature I would always think something was broken.
OF....don't know if I'll get used to the auto "start/stop" or not. Seems to make a difference in MPG. And, having test driven some vehicles with the same feature, I can say that Caddy's is the best implemnation of them all. But, it still sort of takes me by surprise more when it shuts down than when it starts back up (which is pretty darned smooth compared to the likes of BMW's implementation).
Kind of a nice feature at long red lights, though.
OF....don't know if I'll get used to the auto "start/stop" or not. Seems to make a difference in MPG. And, having test driven some vehicles with the same feature, I can say that Caddy's is the best implemnation of them all. But, it still sort of takes me by surprise more when it shuts down than when it starts back up (which is pretty darned smooth compared to the likes of BMW's implementation). Kind of a nice feature at long red lights, though.
Some of the Malibu forum folks became obsessive compulsive about it when they got their 14/15 models. I found it shuts off so smoothly (on my 2.5L) that I don't realize it shut off. I just go with the flow and have gotten used to it. If I know the light will change shortly after my stop or I'm coming up to a stop sign, common in our area, I let off the brake pressure just before dead stop but don't release the brake completely. That lighter brake pressure keeps it from stopping the engine but still stops the car.
When driver100 said it was on his car, I hadn't realized how many companies had implemented auto stop/start. But the Malibu's use of it is so well done, that I didn't realize it had turned off and back on when I was doing the test drive loop. I had gotten off the interstate and made two stops at lights to take a back highway returning to the Chevy store. As soon as the brake pedal starts to release pressure on the brake system, the restart occurs before the brake has completely released. I have used that at a long light and let the engine restart without releasing the brake completely.
It's sort of like operating a PC compared to the Macs I used to use. There's a lot of control over the system. Now if I could only find a way to block repeat incoming scam calls on my wife's Android 4.4 Kit Kat phone... LOL. Had to install an app to do it. LOL
NJ guys (speaking of, where is @fezo), I was at a wedding in Red Bank over the weekend. That's quite a town. Parked on the street I saw an MB SLS AMG, an Alfa Romeo 8C, a slew of AMGs & ///M cars.
Hey, that's where we were Sat evening at the exotic car boutique dealership.
When driver100 said it was on his car, I hadn't realized how many companies had implemented auto stop/start. But the Malibu's use of it is so well done, that I didn't realize it had turned off and back on when I was doing the test drive loop. I had gotten off the interstate and made two stops at lights to take a back highway returning to the Chevy store. As soon as the brake pedal starts to release pressure on the brake system, the restart occurs before the brake has completely released. I have used that at a long light and let the engine restart without releasing the brake completely.
Do the gauges do that fell-sweep dance when it restarts? I assume not.
Honestly....I have nothing else to add about the Cadillac ordeal. I can't add anything that I haven't already said over and over and over. No matter some of the comments, Cadillac screwed the pooch with me. In addition to me, they lost about a dozen potential customers just me talking to people who asked how I liked my car. They lost a bunch with me, too! They come across as a bunch of arrogant buffoons.
That's it. I'm done.
GG, But, other than that, how do you like the car?
Forgive my ignorance of car letter-number naming but what brand is a GS350? Why car companies got away from specific names like Deville or Mustang puzzles me.
The stop-start feature would drive me crazy as well. Having many a car in the past with a stop-stall-no start feature I would always think something was broken.
1) They use letters and numbers because they ran out of real names, that are usable. I kind of wonder about the Dodge Nitro....sounds like a car terrorists would use.
2) It isn't as bad as it seems once you get used to it. I think it is a good thing when the engine shuts off during a long light or if a train is going by, it probably saves up to 4 or 5% of gas. Like imid says, there are ways to control it.
1) They use letters and numbers because they ran out of real names, that are usable. I kind of wonder about the Dodge Nitro....sounds like a car terrorists would use.
Funny. Just imagine the advertising - the car is explosive!
Not to mention other implications, like saying "I have a Nitro down in the parking garage" inside of a federal building, causing an evacuation and getting charged with a threat hoax.
1) They use letters and numbers because they ran out of real names, that are usable. I kind of wonder about the Dodge Nitro....sounds like a car terrorists would use.
Funny. Just imagine the advertising - the car is explosive!
Not to mention other implications, like saying "I have a Nitro down in the parking garage" inside of a federal building, causing an evacuation and getting charged with a threat hoax.
That is funny.....lol
It's like that movie when a guy sees his friend at the airport and says really loud....Hi....Jack! And, all the airline guards tackle the guy.
Looks like ~50% depreciation on a base Fiat 500 over 5 years per TCO.
Not quite as bad on the cheaper Smart - didn't realize they were quite that cheap. $13k and change. (TCO)
Rather have a Versa for even less though. Depreciation on one of those is around 50% over 5 years too.
Thanks, Steve!
Driver....the '16 CTS is better than the '14 CTS in just about every way. It's faster. It handles better. It's a much smoother operating drivetrain. The electronics are better. It has more features. Braking is about the same, though (which is still quite good).
IF (BIG IF) it doesn't have issues, it will make a very nice car for someone in the near future.
Sorry for abruptly leaving, but I have had so many problems with this new medication. They found out in my blood test that I was anemic from one of the drugs I am taking. So I had to have two units of blood IV to bring up my red blood cell count. That was Friday. I feel a little better, but still weak and I get out of breath very quickly after walking just a short distance. I hope I don't need any more blood.
But, all of you who said I would never, ever make it to an oil change on this Mercedes Benz E400 WON THE BET! I just bought a new 2016 Mercedes Benz CLS 400 in Diamond White Metallic and light (very light) interior leather seating with Piano Black wood throughout the interior. I never thought I would do this after having problems with the 2014 CLS 550 (visibility and height), but since I have lost so much weight, I fit perfectly in this new car.
MSRP was $78,495 and I paid $67,738. I had a $3500 incentive from USAA, a $500 incentive from Mercedes Benz Club of America and a $2000 credit from MBUSA as a gesture due to the experience I had last October with the build of my first E400. So, I paid approximately invoice less the fleet incentives and MBUSA credit.
This car has the V6 twin turbo at 330 hp and 3.0 L. When I test drove the car, it was more than powerful enough - sure didn't need the V8.
Again, my apologies for leaving the way I did - but my health has not been the best - but thanks to all for understand, and my apologies to Robr.
Oh, Mike....
That is just hilarious! But congratulations on the new ride! Colors sound nice too. Pictures when you have a chance would be nice.
I actually had an appointment for my first A Service for next Tuesday for the E 400. I also bought this Mercedes locally - about a mile and a half from me. That should save me 2000 miles a year in driving since instead of 21 miles each way up to Delray Beach, it's 1-1/2 miles each way to my new dealer. They gave me the same pricing I used to get from my old dealer.
The experience was much more pleasant actually buying the car. It was fast and professional at Coconut Creek Mercedes - I told them what I would pay (after researching the car) out the door and, after about 20 minutes, the GSM came over and shook my hand - "...we have a deal...!"
Welcome back Mike....good to have you back (hope Rob is reading and returns too, he came up with some good info).
I didn't think you would buy again until the new E Class came out, but, I should have known better.
Color choice sounds fabulous......Edmunds gives the CLS400 a great review.....ride it well.
Thanks, driver. That's an exact replica of what the new car looks like.
Driver....the '16 CTS is better than the '14 CTS in just about every way. It's faster. It handles better. It's a much smoother operating drivetrain. The electronics are better. It has more features. Braking is about the same, though (which is still quite good).
IF (BIG IF) it doesn't have issues, it will make a very nice car for someone in the near future.
GG, Seriously, I thought you would like the new car enough that if it ran well you would want to keep it. It is hard to win back trust though, no matter how good the product. One girlfriend from way back taught me a great lesson...she said you can't love someone if you don't respect them. I don't think you respect the manufacturer any more, so you can't love your car.
(btw....the girlfriend at the time was saying that in general, not about me....just to clarify)
Mike, I don't see much difference after comparing pics side by side. 16 looks to be about an inch or 2 lower in roofline and has slightly different side pressings. Big question is...which one is faster? ps You need to update your signature.
Mike...welcome back. Sorry that your meds need to be tweaked. Big congrats on the new car.
Driver....smart girlfriend. I agree with her. Respect is a funny thing...so easy to promise, so hard to earn.
GG, now you have a white car, driver has a white car, and even I now have a white car. Looks terrific, GG. May I suggest that you hold off on selling this gorgeous new Cadillac CTS until you've driven it for at least a few weeks, if not a month. You mentioned that it is a big improvement over the 2014 in just about every way imaginable. You just might fall in love with this one if it performs well for you.
Sorry for abruptly leaving, but I have had so many problems with this new medication. They found out in my blood test that I was anemic from one of the drugs I am taking. So I had to have two units of blood IV to bring up my red blood cell count. That was Friday. I feel a little better, but still weak and I get out of breath very quickly after walking just a short distance. I hope I don't need any more blood.
But, all of you who said I would never, ever make it to an oil change on this Mercedes Benz E400 WON THE BET! I just bought a new 2016 Mercedes Benz CLS 400 in Diamond White Metallic and light (very light) interior leather seating with Piano Black wood throughout the interior. I never thought I would do this after having problems with the 2014 CLS 550 (visibility and height), but since I have lost so much weight, I fit perfectly in this new car.
MSRP was $78,495 and I paid $67,738. I had a $3500 incentive from USAA, a $500 incentive from Mercedes Benz Club of America and a $2000 credit from MBUSA as a gesture due to the experience I had last October with the build of my first E400. So, I paid approximately invoice less the fleet incentives and MBUSA credit.
This car has the V6 twin turbo at 330 hp and 3.0 L. When I test drove the car, it was more than powerful enough - sure didn't need the V8.
Again, my apologies for leaving the way I did - but my health has not been the best - but thanks to all for understand, and my apologies to Robr.
I was incorrect about the MSRP on the car, it is actually $79,485. I just looked at the window sticker - I forgot there was a $1000 additional cost for the wheels I selected. So, I paid $67,738 + tax, tags and fees. So I got the car for $12,000 under MSRP. I have no complaints.
OF....don't know if I'll get used to the auto "start/stop" or not. Seems to make a difference in MPG. And, having test driven some vehicles with the same feature, I can say that Caddy's is the best implemnation of them all. But, it still sort of takes me by surprise more when it shuts down than when it starts back up (which is pretty darned smooth compared to the likes of BMW's implementation). Kind of a nice feature at long red lights, though.
Some of the Malibu forum folks became obsessive compulsive about it when they got their 14/15 models. I found it shuts off so smoothly (on my 2.5L) that I don't realize it shut off. I just go with the flow and have gotten used to it. If I know the light will change shortly after my stop or I'm coming up to a stop sign, common in our area, I let off the brake pressure just before dead stop but don't release the brake completely. That lighter brake pressure keeps it from stopping the engine but still stops the car.
When driver100 said it was on his car, I hadn't realized how many companies had implemented auto stop/start. But the Malibu's use of it is so well done, that I didn't realize it had turned off and back on when I was doing the test drive loop. I had gotten off the interstate and made two stops at lights to take a back highway returning to the Chevy store. As soon as the brake pedal starts to release pressure on the brake system, the restart occurs before the brake has completely released. I have used that at a long light and let the engine restart without releasing the brake completely.
It's sort of like operating a PC compared to the Macs I used to use. There's a lot of control over the system. Now if I could only find a way to block repeat incoming scam calls on my wife's Android 4.4 Kit Kat phone... LOL. Had to install an app to do it. LOL
What would happen if you got the urge to blast off from the stop light while the engine was off? If you floored it would the thing come on with a bang sending gears in all directions of would it just sit there until the motor reved up and the transmission engaged?
Not that I go crazy off the line very often but I wouldn't feel comfortable driving a car that I couldn't do it if I wanted.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Mike! Wow, what an entrance. So sorry to hear about the health issues related or the anti-virals, but it's good to see you back....and with a beautiful new car. Have they tested your viral load yet? Praying that this will be the round that eliminates the C for good. I was getting a little worried I wouldn't know how to contact you in March for our scheduled brunch.
Sorry for abruptly leaving, but I have had so many problems with this new medication. They found out in my blood test that I was anemic from one of the drugs I am taking. So I had to have two units of blood IV to bring up my red blood cell count. That was Friday. I feel a little better, but still weak and I get out of breath very quickly after walking just a short distance. I hope I don't need any more blood.
But, all of you who said I would never, ever make it to an oil change on this Mercedes Benz E400 WON THE BET! I just bought a new 2016 Mercedes Benz CLS 400 in Diamond White Metallic and light (very light) interior leather seating with Piano Black wood throughout the interior. I never thought I would do this after having problems with the 2014 CLS 550 (visibility and height), but since I have lost so much weight, I fit perfectly in this new car.
MSRP was $78,495 and I paid $67,738. I had a $3500 incentive from USAA, a $500 incentive from Mercedes Benz Club of America and a $2000 credit from MBUSA as a gesture due to the experience I had last October with the build of my first E400. So, I paid approximately invoice less the fleet incentives and MBUSA credit.
This car has the V6 twin turbo at 330 hp and 3.0 L. When I test drove the car, it was more than powerful enough - sure didn't need the V8.
Again, my apologies for leaving the way I did - but my health has not been the best - but thanks to all for understand, and my apologies to Robr.
Even sick you are a 'car buying machine'. I stand in awe of you. Congrats!
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Comments
That's it. I'm done.
The stop-start feature would drive me crazy as well. Having many a car in the past with a stop-stall-no start feature I would always think something was broken.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
Glad it all worked out for you. I had a horrible GM experience as well, and attempted a buy back. This was back in 2000 with a 99 Olds 88. I finally tired and just traded out of the car at a loss. I spent a good bit of time away from GM and told my story all the time. I've since gone back, but hearing stories like yours make me cringe.
2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic
2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic
Be sure to click the star at the top to make it show up in your bookmarks. The topic has been unpinned
so it floats to the bottom of your bookmarks.
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
Thanks!
2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic
Kind of a nice feature at long red lights, though.
When driver100 said it was on his car, I hadn't realized how many companies had implemented auto stop/start. But the Malibu's use of it is so well done, that I didn't realize it had turned off and back on when I was doing the test drive loop. I had gotten off the interstate and made two stops at lights to take a back highway returning to the Chevy store. As soon as the brake pedal starts to release pressure on the brake system, the restart occurs before the brake has completely released. I have used that at a long light and let the engine restart without releasing the brake completely.
It's sort of like operating a PC compared to the Macs I used to use. There's a lot of control over the system. Now if I could only find a way to block repeat incoming scam calls on my wife's Android 4.4 Kit Kat phone... LOL. Had to install an app to do it. LOL
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
Volkswagon Diesels....
2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic
Not quite as bad on the cheaper Smart - didn't realize they were quite that cheap. $13k and change. (TCO)
Rather have a Versa for even less though. Depreciation on one of those is around 50% over 5 years too.
2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic
"
1) They use letters and numbers because they ran out of real names, that are usable. I kind of wonder about the Dodge Nitro....sounds like a car terrorists would use.
2) It isn't as bad as it seems once you get used to it. I think it is a good thing when the engine shuts off during a long light or if a train is going by, it probably saves up to 4 or 5% of gas. Like imid says, there are ways to control it.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Not to mention other implications, like saying "I have a Nitro down in the parking garage" inside of a federal building, causing an evacuation and getting charged with a threat hoax.
2018 430i Gran Coupe
It's like that movie when a guy sees his friend at the airport and says really loud....Hi....Jack! And, all the airline guards tackle the guy.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Driver....the '16 CTS is better than the '14 CTS in just about every way. It's faster. It handles better. It's a much smoother operating drivetrain. The electronics are better. It has more features. Braking is about the same, though (which is still quite good).
IF (BIG IF) it doesn't have issues, it will make a very nice car for someone in the near future.
But, all of you who said I would never, ever make it to an oil change on this Mercedes Benz E400 WON THE BET! I just bought a new 2016 Mercedes Benz CLS 400 in Diamond White Metallic and light (very light) interior leather seating with Piano Black wood throughout the interior. I never thought I would do this after having problems with the 2014 CLS 550 (visibility and height), but since I have lost so much weight, I fit perfectly in this new car.
MSRP was $78,495 and I paid $67,738. I had a $3500 incentive from USAA, a $500 incentive from Mercedes Benz Club of America and a $2000 credit from MBUSA as a gesture due to the experience I had last October with the build of my first E400. So, I paid approximately invoice less the fleet incentives and MBUSA credit.
This car has the V6 twin turbo at 330 hp and 3.0 L. When I test drove the car, it was more than powerful enough - sure didn't need the V8.
Again, my apologies for leaving the way I did - but my health has not been the best - but thanks to all for understand, and my apologies to Robr.
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
That is just hilarious! But congratulations on the new ride! Colors sound nice too. Pictures when you have a chance would be nice.
2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6
The experience was much more pleasant actually buying the car. It was fast and professional at Coconut Creek Mercedes - I told them what I would pay (after researching the car) out the door and, after about 20 minutes, the GSM came over and shook my hand - "...we have a deal...!"
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
I didn't think you would buy again until the new E Class came out, but, I should have known better.
Color choice sounds fabulous......Edmunds gives the CLS400 a great review.....ride it well.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
GG, Seriously, I thought you would like the new car enough that if it ran well you would want to keep it. It is hard to win back trust though, no matter how good the product. One girlfriend from way back taught me a great lesson...she said you can't love someone if you don't respect them. I don't think you respect the manufacturer any more, so you can't love your car.
(btw....the girlfriend at the time was saying that in general, not about me....just to clarify)
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
ps You need to update your signature.
2013 Mustang GT, 2001 GMC Yukon Denali
Driver....smart girlfriend. I agree with her. Respect is a funny thing...so easy to promise, so hard to earn.
It looks good in every color too....
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,
Just give it a some thought and a bit of time.
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Not that I go crazy off the line very often but I wouldn't feel comfortable driving a car that I couldn't do it if I wanted.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
That would be a heck of a bargain if you could find one that wasn't.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Even sick you are a 'car buying machine'. I stand in awe of you. Congrats!
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible