Edmunds Members - Cars and Conversations (Archived)

imidazol97 · December 2016

jmonroe said:
I have no idea why police feel they have to chase a car at high speeds in traffic. From what I have read about this tragedy, I blame the police. There is no need to do this high speed Broderick Crawford chasing.
Police do have radios, so why all of this high speed chasing.

If the perps would just learn to follow the instructions of a policeman it would be a better world. Instead the police get blamed if they make a decision to chase the perps, and they get blamed when various crimes from speeding to drug sales to murders keep increasing.

It's always easy to be a Monday morning quarterback and second guess the decisions made in the football game the day before. Same thing with the policemen.

jmonroe · December 2016

oldfarmer50 said:

stever said:

suydam said:
Ohio's gotta be right up there on the deer count too.
The UP was pretty bad, glad I'm out of deer country. Can't avoid T-Bone country though.

Worst states for deer collisions (carinsurance.com)
Can't believe NY isn't on that list. Maybe NYC brings down the stat.

New York is on the list, you guys are No.30.

I know New Uorker's like to be No.1 with everything but being in the rear end of the class for deer kills is a good thing, right?

FWIW, I doubt that my Son is going to provide any pictures. Although this would be a good time to try to recruit him again here at Edmunds.

jmonroe

jmonroe · December 2016

imidazol97 said:

jmonroe said:
I have no idea why police feel they have to chase a car at high speeds in traffic. From what I have read about this tragedy, I blame the police. There is no need to do this high speed Broderick Crawford chasing.
Police do have radios, so why all of this high speed chasing.
If the perps would just learn to follow the instructions of a policeman it would be a better world. Instead the police get blamed if they make a decision to chase the perps, and they get blamed when various crimes from speeding to drug sales to murders keep increasing.

It's always easy to be a Monday morning quarterback and second guess the decisions made in the football game the day before. Same thing with the policemen.

In a perfect world perps would follow police instructions. However, if perps followed the rules of society, they wouldn't be perps, would they?

jmonroe

driver100 · December 2016

JMonroe, Sorry to hear about the deer incident. That can just happen, you have no control....almost impossible to avoid when they run out. Glad no one seems to be hurt...just the car.

RE: Police chases...they should be permitted, but officers have to use good judgement. There are times to chase and times not to....hopefully police will use good judgement.

RE Pot smoking. I don't care, as long as law enforcement has a way to find if someone was driving impaired.

driver100 · December 2016

Mr S.
I sent an email...let me know if you got it. I didn't press send, I just tapped on the email I was writing and it disappeared.

iluvmysephia1 · December 2016

As far as I know cops don't have a test (besides their alcohol field sobriety test) to test if people have been smoking pot out on the road. Smells like skunk in the car?

oldfarmer50 · December 2016

OK, this i don't get. Why buy a V6 Mustang (especially with the old 4.0L truck motor) and then spend money to upgrade performance?

http://performance.ford.com/enthusiasts/fan-spotlight/2016/12/nicole-james-of-phoenix-makes-car-connection-with-2005-v-6-musta.html?cks=15304659750&emailid=FP_FASTNEWS

driver100 · December 2016

iluvmysephia1 said:
As far as I know cops don't have a test (besides their alcohol field sobriety test) to test if people have been smoking pot out on the road. Smells like skunk in the car?

I think some of the methods are not 100% accurate or completely proven. This one is a possibility:

ROADSIDE TEST FOR MARIJUANA

graphicguy · December 2016

Therein is the problem with community police depts. Not doubting the danger element of their jobs. But, why engage in a chase over minor offenses? That escalates a situation that is relatively low risk, into a much higher risk endeavor.

South of where I live, they just had a national spotlight on the University of Cincinnati officer who shot a man who was thought to be committing a minor infraction. Why?

It's a training function. And, it's a lack of proper vetting for those who want to become police.

Again, I support the police dept. But, please don't escalate situations over minor infractions. Don't pull a weapon at the slightest infraction.

I've had encounters personally with local police who automatically gave an attitude with me over very minor traffic infractions. Again, why? They lose my respect immediately when showing that "attitude".

PF_Flyer · December 2016

jmonroe said:
It's the fault of you guys in here. It's contagious. :@

I was talking to Son #1 at a social event last night and he tells me his wife hit a deer and ran completely over it. She is OK but his '13 Infinity G37 has some bruises. The car is drivable but he isn't sure how to even guess the extent of the work to fix it. Even the right front inner fender liner was just about knocked off.

She was coming off the PA pike ramp about to get onto a 4 lane road and the thing jumps right out of a hiding spot and into the right front of the car. She wasn't going very fast (maybe 30 MPH) but said she still had no time to react and was very lucky that the car behind her didn't nail her. My Son has to get an estimate but he has the rental already, a 2016 Buick Enclave. He likes the way it drives and would not mind getting one but it won't carry all the hockey stuff for 2 of his sons. So, he knows he can't get rid of the '16 Kia van he bought this past Spring.

TO BE CONTINUED.

jmonroe

Yea, we definitely need a witch doctor or something to put some good mojo on us

Rats with antlers, that's what they are

houdini1 · December 2016

Well, looks like the cops have perfected their DUI procedure:

True story from the heart of Texas.

A certain roadhouse in Texas was know to be a favorite haunt of State Troopers looking to to slow down the drastic increase in drunk driving cases.

A trooper was parked at the edge of said parking lot and watching for drunken patrons leaving the establishment. Shortly before closing time a particular individual captured his attention. The gentleman staggered forth and began searching for his vehicle. He tried to enter a couple of cars with no luck, and finally stumbled onto his own vehicle. After falling down once, he was able to get inside the car.

First, the horn honked a time or two, then the windshield wipers came on, then the turn blinker started to flash. At last he managed to start the engine. Then he backed up a few feet, stopped, and just sat there. Then he pulled forward for a few feet and stopped again. Finally, as the parking lot had almost emptied out, he slowly pulled onto the highway.

At this point the trooper had seen enough, hit his lights and pulled the guy over. He administered a breathalyzer test and was dumbfounded when the guy showed no alcohol at all in his system. He then told the gentleman that he would have to accompany him to the station because his breathalyzer seemed to be not working. The guy looked at him and said there was nothing wrong with his breathalyzer, it was just that tonight, he was the designated decoy.

ab348 · December 2016

graphicguy said:
Therein is the problem with community police depts. Not doubting the danger element of their jobs. But, why engage in a chase over minor offenses? That escalates a situation that is relatively low risk, into a much higher risk endeavor.

South of where I live, they just had a national spotlight on the University of Cincinnati officer who shot a man who was thought to be committing a minor infraction. Why?

It's a training function. And, it's a lack of proper vetting for those who want to become police.

Again, I support the police dept. But, please don't escalate situations over minor infractions. Don't pull a weapon at the slightest infraction.

I've had encounters personally with local police who automatically gave an attitude with me over very minor traffic infractions. Again, why? They lose my respect immediately when showing that "attitude".

I think you hit the bullseye. Proper policies, proper training, and weeding out those with certain personalities and tendencies. It all comes down from the top. Policing attracts certain kinds of personalities and some of those are the last ones you want in the job.

fintail · December 2016

Back in the 90s, my dad hit a deer with a 68 Ford in coastal WA. Barely left a mark on the car, and he claims the deer ran off, but I have a feeling it wasn't in good shape.

stever said:

The UP was pretty bad, glad I'm out of deer country. Can't avoid T-Bone country though.

Worst states for deer collisions (carinsurance.com)

fintail · December 2016

98% of them are fantastic. 2% of them are questionable at best, and thanks to the most rabid union in humanity, and kind of a frat boy mentality, the good ones can't or don't do anything about it. Sometimes what they do irritates me, but I wouldn't want that job.

Another issue is the gutted mental health ideal in the US - the cops more or less are in charge of those with such issues now. Another great by-product of the trickle down era. Cut things, see what happens.

ab348 said:

I think you hit the bullseye. Proper policies, proper training, and weeding out those with certain personalities and tendencies. It all comes down from the top. Policing attracts certain kinds of personalities and some of those are the last ones you want in the job.

driver100 · December 2016

WARNING: Don't buy a VIZIO TV.
We bought our 55 inch VIZIO TV exactly 3 years ago.....warranty was for 2 years, it has been used for 5 months a year, for 3 years.
The Wi-Fi worked in early November, we could watch Amazon Prime.
We tried this week and NO Wi-fi.
I called customer service 4 times, spent an hour on the phone each time. They actually lied to me a few times, said the agreement with amazon had ended, said it was a cable company problem etc.
The 3rd time after one hour, she told me to unplug the reuter - I did and the phone went dead, it was on the reuter, she was told that.
The 4th time I asked to speak to a higher level. I can only do that after we test everything again for the 78th time. This time he finally says, the wi-fi isn't working, we can send a repairman but it will cost. I said no thanks, it is the last VIZIO product I will ever buy.

Bought a Samsung at Costco for $670 today. Easy to set up, easy to operate, beautiful LCD/LED picture, wi-fi works beautiful. I know the VIZIO was expensive for a TV that was good for 3 years, but using the Driver Method it works out to $250 a year for some very worthwhile entertainment.

I just read an article that says you should not try to hoard your money when you retire. You have worked and saved so you can enjoy your retirement years, don't keep those old habits of trying to economize on everything. Don't go crazy, but, don't deny yourself something you really want, just to try to save money. So far we got a 40 inch wi-fi TV for the bedroom ($240), this new TV, and the C 250.....I am enjoying my retirement years....and I am thinking I will leave the kids a few bills to pay for their inheritance.

qbrozen · December 2016

We have been having issues with our 55" vizio, too. Usually turning the tv off and on fixes the wifi. The wifi went out the other day and no amount of turning the set on and off fixed it. I finally unplugged it from the wall and plugged it back in. That reset the wifi and it is working again. I do have to tell you that Samsung is no better. I have that in my bedroom. I had that repaired once under warranty (fried a piece of its board), then when the warranty was up, it started making a high pitched hissing at startup till it warms up a few mins later. The latest is that it will now take about 2 mins to come on and then another 3 with the noise. So I have gotten into the habit of turning it on before going to brush my teeth at night so it is finally all warmed up by the time I climb into bed.

fintail · December 2016

I bought a Samsung LED in 2010. Knock on wood, zero issues.

You know what they say, the best retirement plan is the one where the check to the undertaker bounces

driver100 said:
WARNING: Don't buy a VIZIO TV.
am thinking I will leave the kids a few bills to pay for their inheritance.

jmonroe · December 2016

driver100 said:
WARNING: Don't buy a VIZIO TV.
We bought our 55 inch VIZIO TV exactly 3 years ago.....warranty was for 2 years, it has been used for 5 months a year, for 3 years.
The Wi-Fi worked in early November, we could watch Amazon Prime.
We tried this week and NO Wi-fi.
I called customer service 4 times, spent an hour on the phone each time. They actually lied to me a few times, said the agreement with amazon had ended, said it was a cable company problem etc.
The 3rd time after one hour, she told me to unplug the reuter - I did and the phone went dead, it was on the reuter, she was told that.
The 4th time I asked to speak to a higher level. I can only do that after we test everything again for the 78th time. This time he finally says, the wi-fi isn't working, we can send a repairman but it will cost. I said no thanks, it is the last VIZIO product I will ever buy.

Bought a Samsung at Costco for $670 today. Easy to set up, easy to operate, beautiful LCD/LED picture, wi-fi works beautiful. I know the VIZIO was expensive for a TV that was good for 3 years, but using the Driver Method it works out to $250 a year for some very worthwhile entertainment.

I just read an article that says you should not try to hoard your money when you retire. You have worked and saved so you can enjoy your retirement years, don't keep those old habits of trying to economize on everything. Don't go crazy, but, don't deny yourself something you really want, just to try to save money. So far we got a 40 inch wi-fi TV for the bedroom ($240), this new TV, and the C 250.....I am enjoying my retirement years....and I am thinking I will leave the kids a few bills to pay for their inheritance.

I keep telling Mrs. j that she needs a new Subie (it's a 2012) but she keeps telling me to keep my hands off of her car. Then she tells me she's worried about what I might do about my car in a few years.

I would show her your post about not being so cheap but the last time I showed her one of your posts (the one about the guys that liked washing machines) she turned it completely around on me. So, I ain't going to do that no more. :@

jmonroe

driver100 · December 2016

qb....It seems most people are pretty satisfied with their Samsung TVs. I gather that from reading the reviews, however, a few had them breakdown early too. I know we discussed how we don't usually buy extended warranties, but in this case we did. It covers years 3,4 and 5 after the manufacturers warranty is up in 2 years. It is probably a waste of $60, but, this way we should have a TV that will work for 5 years....in home service is provided.

fin......Our 50 inch Samsung back north is 6 years old too. I like that saying, just hope one is actually buried before the undertaker tries to cash the check.

stickguy · December 2016

I know I bought a Vizio at some point. Might have been the one I took back because it did not work with my cable remote. Have a 5 YO Sharp in the family room. Knock wood, never an issue. Rarely use the wifi though. But as a TV, no complaints.

bought an LG a couple years back for the bedroom. That works fine too and I do use the wifi on it for MLB.tv. real good picture on that.

I had a cheap Magnavox at one point (early flat panel LCD). mediocre picture. but always worked. I think my son got that one? And my daughter has the old bedroom set at college. Maybe that is the vizio.

you know you are getting old when you get confused trying to remember what kind of TVs you own!

driver100 · December 2016

jmonroe said:

driver100 said:
WARNING: Don't buy a VIZIO TV.
We bought our 55 inch VIZIO TV exactly 3 years ago.....warranty was for 2 years, it has been used for 5 months a year, for 3 years.
The Wi-Fi worked in early November, we could watch Amazon Prime.
We tried this week and NO Wi-fi.
I called customer service 4 times, spent an hour on the phone each time. They actually lied to me a few times, said the agreement with amazon had ended, said it was a cable company problem etc.
The 3rd time after one hour, she told me to unplug the reuter - I did and the phone went dead, it was on the reuter, she was told that.
The 4th time I asked to speak to a higher level. I can only do that after we test everything again for the 78th time. This time he finally says, the wi-fi isn't working, we can send a repairman but it will cost. I said no thanks, it is the last VIZIO product I will ever buy.

Bought a Samsung at Costco for $670 today. Easy to set up, easy to operate, beautiful LCD/LED picture, wi-fi works beautiful. I know the VIZIO was expensive for a TV that was good for 3 years, but using the Driver Method it works out to $250 a year for some very worthwhile entertainment.

I just read an article that says you should not try to hoard your money when you retire. You have worked and saved so you can enjoy your retirement years, don't keep those old habits of trying to economize on everything. Don't go crazy, but, don't deny yourself something you really want, just to try to save money. So far we got a 40 inch wi-fi TV for the bedroom ($240), this new TV, and the C 250.....I am enjoying my retirement years....and I am thinking I will leave the kids a few bills to pay for their inheritance.
I keep telling Mrs. j that she needs a new Subie (it's a 2012) but she keeps telling me to keep my hands off of her car. Then she tells me she's worried about what I might do about my car in a few years.

I would show her your post about not being so cheap but the last time I showed her one of your posts (the one about the guys that liked washing machines) she turned it completely around on me. So, I ain't going to do that no more. :@

jmonroe

JM, Here's the article if you want to send it to your wife:
DON'T TRY TO UNDERSPEND IN RETIREMENT

This is especially worth reading....and sending;

The Bottom Line

Nobody would advise you to spend without good financial sense, and no wise person would tell you how to spend your money. What they will tell you is that one day you will pass away and you can’t take your money with you. You deserve to enjoy the fruits of your labor.

If you want to give money to others, do it now and enjoy their pleasure. If you want to take a trip around the world, get on the plane – and if you want to purchase the car you’ve always dreamed of driving, now is the time. (Especially that car; you can't drive forever.) Being too cheap is no wiser financially than spending too much.

stickguy · December 2016

I agree Driver. Saving and living approraitely to make sure you don't out live your money is fine. Common sense. But to leave a bunch behind, nah.

I think it is good to just do a budget for your fixed income, but make sure to include some luxury items, like a special trip, new car, whatever. and buying the car at the beginning gets that out of the way!

Michaell · December 2016

I'm trying to slowly talk to my mom about that. She's finally starting to get my dads benefits after he passed. More money each month than she can spend, plus what she has in savings already. She's always been thrifty, so those are hard habits to break.

I know she wants to do some work around the house, and she'd like to take one last trip to TN to visit friends. But, mostly she's concerned about having enough money available for long term care.

It will take some time.

graphicguy · December 2016

Driver....sorry to hear about your TV woes. WiFi is a little bit technology and a little bit magic. Some of it depends on your router quality and location. But, if you find a TV that works in your home, go with it.

Visio has some good pic quality for the money. But, the UHD TVs out there today are really quite good, even the mid to low range in the Samsung, Sony and LG lines. I finally sold my much beloved Pioneer Kuro plasma. I have a Panasonic plasma, a Samsung SUHD and my most recent LG OLED TV.

The Samsung and LG are newer, and WiFi is a major part of their operation. So, WiFi is good on them.

With Hulu, Amazon Prime, Netflix, Roku, etc, fast and reliable WiFi is critical. I'm seriously thinking about dumping my DirecTV and watching nothing but the streaming services.

Those Samsung TVs at Costco are pretty good, some of the models are tops for pic quality. I'm sure you'll like it for a good long while.

fintail · December 2016

My dad passed unexpectedly just before his 69th birthday. Since then, I am more into the "live a little" philosophy. Of course, one should spend less than they make, and put something away for tomorrow - but don't sacrifice today for it. Since then (2006), I have been more willing to pick up a car because I like it, or go on a real vacation. I'd rather travel and maybe have interesting cars when I am in decent physical condition so I can enjoy it, than be able to do it when I might not get around so well - if I make it that long to begin with. Tomorrow isn't guaranteed.

Speaking of dumping cable, I might do it next year, when my contract is up. My sister and mother have the Amazon Fire stick, and it works pretty well. I already cut my cable back by about $75/month, and don't miss it - the next step should be easy.

fintail · December 2016

Just be sure he knows the names and contact info of your kids or immediate family

driver100 said:

fin......Our 50 inch Samsung back north is 6 years old too. I like that saying, just hope one is actually buried before the undertaker tries to cash the check.

jipster · December 2016

Why cops engage in high speed pursuit over minor traffic violation? More often than not the person fleeing has warrants, drugs, stolen merchandise, weapons. Must pursue.

Visio? Has some of the lowest rated t.vs for reliability, in Consumer Reports. I buy Samsung for t.vs. Will stay away from Samsung microwaves. Had a Samsung microwave break down after only 3 years. Then checked reliability rating...horrible.

Washers? Just bought a high efficiency Maytag top loader after Whirpool konked out after 12 years. The high efficiency washers take some time to get use to. Strange alien noises. The tub only fills with water to about a foot. Clothes gyrate and giggle like Santa's belly (have the glass top).Cleans good. Less energy.

robr2 · December 2016

driver100 said:

robr2 said:
Quick Update:

I put 22K miles on the Passat in a year travelling for work.
One broken windshield.
Getting over 31 mpg with it.
If I could travel without so many samples and literature in the trunk, I might get even better fuel economy.
It's really comfortable and eats up miles.
I miss having a wagon - sometimes I wish I had bought a small crossover.
I forget what year your Passat is Rob.
Ours was a 2013 with 6800 miles on it.
Good car in the city, great features, but I found it lacked power and wasn't great on the highway at 80 mph.
traded it for a 2014 Mercedes C250, what a difference. Almost drives itself, I just guide it. 80 mph with one hand on the wheel, I don't hang on for dear life. If a big truck is on my bumper I can turbo boost it and get into another lane. Life is good again.

A friend has a new CRV, he has the same complaint. At high speeds it is all over the road unless you really concentrate on the steering. I know exactly what he means.

My Passat is a 2015 and has the 1.8T. Surprisingly, it, the 2013 with the 2.5, and your New To You C250 all have about the same 0-60 time of 7 seconds. The 2.5 is a solid engine but it's torque curve makes it feel like it's running out of steam. Plus as a 5 cylinder, it can sound horrible. The new 1.8T in my car has gobs of torque down low and makes it feel very quick. I'm guessing the 1.8T in the C250 is similar. Great thing about my Passat is that it is designed to run on regular unleaded. No more premium for me.

ab348 · December 2016

driver100 said:

I just read an article that says you should not try to hoard your money when you retire. You have worked and saved so you can enjoy your retirement years, don't keep those old habits of trying to economize on everything.

It sounds like you are doing a fine job of living up to those principles.

driver100 · December 2016

Lots of articles compare Vizio against Samsung TVs. This article seems pretty informative. In many categories Vizio and Samsung are tied. If one was better it was almost always Samsung.

Vizio started out targeting a lower price point, and continue to be a low priced manufacturer. I think you usually pay less for a Vizio for comparable set, but, the product is not quite as good quality, and I interpret that to mean it could break down easier.

SAMSUNG VS VIZIO TVs

ab348 · December 2016

I am dubious of a lot of the TVs I see in stores and online, even ones with brand names that used to mean something - current TVs branded RCA, Westinghouse, Magnavox, et al tend to be generic lower-end models. I have heard good things about Vizio but you have to consider them disposable. Same way with the Insignia brand Best Buy sells. I have heard that LG is a step below other name brands, and that Samsung makes a good TV these days. I am not a fan of anything Samsung so I have avoided them. I always preferred Panasonic TVs but they have abandoned their plasma line and I hear their LCD TVs are not so good. Sharp never seemed to get it right in flat screens. I liked Sony but had a bad experience with one of their HDTVs about 8 years ago. I picked up a 32" Sony for the bedroom this summer and it has a good picture, but the smart TV/WiFi implementation is atrociously bad, virtually useless.

driver100 · December 2016

There is a recall and warning regarding Samsung washing machines. Apparently the tops can fly off during the spin cycle.

Over a dozen consumer complaints about Samsung washers, some referring to “exploding” machines, prompted the Consumer Product Safety Commission on Wednesday, September 28, to issue a warning about certain top-loading machines made between March 2011 and April 2016. Only top-loaders are affected, not front-loading Samsung washers.
I LIKE THIS NEXT STATEMENT....NO JOKING!
Consumer Reports, meanwhile, suspended recommended status for any top-loading Samsung washers that earned that designation in its washing-machine tests.

According to the complaints filed with the CPSC, the problem seems to occur during the spin cycle when some machines suddenly and sometimes violently break apart. In a statement, the agency said it is “actively and cooperatively working with Samsung to address safety issues.”

EXPLODING SAMSUNG WASHERS

driver100 · December 2016

ab348 said:

driver100 said:

I just read an article that says you should not try to hoard your money when you retire. You have worked and saved so you can enjoy your retirement years, don't keep those old habits of trying to economize on everything.

It sounds like you are doing a fine job of living up to those principles.

I try to practice what I preach

houdini1 · December 2016

Back to cars, er, cuvs. Someone mentioned the GLC being MT Suv of the year for 2016. It is a really sharp package. Base price for awd is around $41,000. According to MT it has the new C class interior but is actually built on the E class chasssis.

That all sounds good until you actually price one out. Most everything you would want is optional and if you want a specific item, it is usually packaged in with several things you could live without. If you want a navigation system, which comes with a bunch of other stuff it is easy to get the price over $60,000. It is a great CUV, but that price looks pretty steep to me.

suydam · December 2016

Samsung TVs are great. We had our old one 5 years with zero problems. We sold it because of the move and got the newest Samsung version. So far it's fabulous too. We also got a Samsung refrigerator because they are one of the few who make counter-depth ones. Love it so far.
We bought a Kenmore HE Washer and dryer. They do make funny sounds but the energy efficiency is amazing.
Because one company does one type of appliance well doesn't mean they are good at all of them.

imidazol97 · December 2016

I like my 40 inch Samsung TV. It replaced a Sony that was many years old. I picked the size to fit in the cabinet in the living room and picked the standard definition rather than the 4x model. It's the version without internet connection. Perfectly happy with it.

A Samsung washer or refrigerator--no thank you. Friend ditched the Samsung refrigerator he had bought. Too hard to get service on it. Parts? Wait a while.

Got a letter Friday about recall on my microwave from our new appliance group of Whirlpool/Maytag from January. Over the range types in certain models and serial number range have a possibility of catching fire. Ours was not in the range.

stickguy · December 2016

houdini1 said:
Back to cars, er, cuvs. Someone mentioned the GLC being MT Suv of the year for 2016. It is a really sharp package. Base price for awd is around $41,000. According to MT it has the new C class interior but is actually built on the E class chasssis.

That all sounds good until you actually price one out. Most everything you would want is optional and if you want a specific item, it is usually packaged in with several things you could live without. If you want a navigation system, which comes with a bunch of other stuff it is easy to get the price over $60,000. It is a great CUV, but that price looks pretty steep to me.

that was me. Yeah, I think the as tested price was close to 60K, but there is really a lot of stuff in that I would not need.

besides, I would have to find one a year or 2 old, and the super loaded models depreciate even faster, since the options don't hold value as well as the base car!

out of curiosity, I specced one out, with the basic must-haves. About the only thing missing is Navi, but not sure if that important these days. If so, add another 2K to the price. As configured, just under $46,000. Before the requisite large discount.

https://www.mbusa.com/mercedes/vehicles/build/class-GLC/model-GLC300W4#tab=tab-summary

even adding on the premium 2 package (Navi and a few other gadgets) and the required fancy stereo, still hits about $50K. No wonder a 60K unit is a tough sell and bad depreciation.

dino001 · December 2016

Back way then I was shopping for a TV (10 years, long time ago, may be time to do it again), it was Pioneer and Panasonic, if you wanted top plasma and Sony for LCD. Plasmas had better pictures for larger screens, but LCDs prevailed in long run for costs. I really wanted the Pioneer, it was awesame, but it was too much, so went with Toshiba's plasma and ten years later it still runs strong. Picture as crisp, as when bought it. Doesn't have wifi, or even 1080p, just 720p/1080i but Roku with good audio receiver do the trick. I bet if Imdidn't tell, nobody would recognize it's lower resolution. Would buy plasma again, if only offered. Love it.

I would not buy Vizio for my primary entertainment. Not sure what else is there now besides Samsung and LG. Pioneer is out of TV business. My problem with Samsung is they notoriously pump up (manipulate) the primary specs (those consumers tend to care about) Back then it was contrast ratio on their LCDs - everybody else had something like 3000:1, they claimed three times as much, essentially as much as plasma at the time, but it was a trick, a self invented metric, that was different than the rest of the industry.

dino001 · December 2016

imidazol97 said:

A Samsung washer or refrigerator--no thank you. Friend ditched the Samsung refrigerator he had bought. Too hard to get service on it. Parts? Wait a while

Still? I heard it was a big problem in the past, but I thought they got much better, as more and more retailers picked them up, which was followed with repair shops. Perhaps not quite yet.

nyccarguy · December 2016

fintail said:
My dad passed unexpectedly just before his 69th birthday. Since then, I am more into the "live a little" philosophy. Of course, one should spend less than they make, and put something away for tomorrow - but don't sacrifice today for it. Since then (2006), I have been more willing to pick up a car because I like it, or go on a real vacation. I'd rather travel and maybe have interesting cars when I am in decent physical condition so I can enjoy it, than be able to do it when I might not get around so well - if I make it that long to begin with. Tomorrow isn't guaranteed.

Speaking of dumping cable, I might do it next year, when my contract is up. My sister and mother have the Amazon Fire stick, and it works pretty well. I already cut my cable back by about $75/month, and don't miss it - the next step should be easy.

I'm sorry about your Dad @fintail. You and I are around the same age, so I'm sure it is very tough. I work for my Dad & see him 5-6 days a week. He's 70 & still works full time (retire is a 4 letter word to him).

Cars are something that are near & dear to me. I bought my Prelude a few months after the 911 Terrorist attacks. Somebody who my wife and I knew well was murdered that day. He is survived by his wife & 4 children. He was 41.

I went & leased my BMW after my Grandfather died.

I have to tell you that I hate paying the cable bill every month. I feel like I pay $200 a month to watch the 11 o'clock news. I never since at making a car payment though. Cars are something I truly enjoy.

suydam · December 2016

These Samsung refrigerators have a pretty good rep, and are sold and repaired at all the big box stores now. Five years from now I'm sure there will be a whole new range of appliances people want.

houdini1 · December 2016

stickguy said:

houdini1 said:
Back to cars, er, cuvs. Someone mentioned the GLC being MT Suv of the year for 2016. It is a really sharp package. Base price for awd is around $41,000. According to MT it has the new C class interior but is actually built on the E class chasssis.

That all sounds good until you actually price one out. Most everything you would want is optional and if you want a specific item, it is usually packaged in with several things you could live without. If you want a navigation system, which comes with a bunch of other stuff it is easy to get the price over $60,000. It is a great CUV, but that price looks pretty steep to me.
that was me. Yeah, I think the as tested price was close to 60K, but there is really a lot of stuff in that I would not need.

besides, I would have to find one a year or 2 old, and the super loaded models depreciate even faster, since the options don't hold value as well as the base car!

out of curiosity, I specced one out, with the basic must-haves. About the only thing missing is Navi, but not sure if that important these days. If so, add another 2K to the price. As configured, just under $46,000. Before the requisite large discount.

https://www.mbusa.com/mercedes/vehicles/build/class-GLC/model-GLC300W4#tab=tab-summary

even adding on the premium 2 package (Navi and a few other gadgets) and the required fancy stereo, still hits about $50K. No wonder a 60K unit is a tough sell and bad depreciation.

OK, that sounds better. I re checked and looks like I didn't make it far enough to see where you could pick and choose a little, I thought it was package or nothing.

stickguy · December 2016

It seems that BMW and MB do the same thing, where they put a few options together in an easy to order package, and really inflate the price. You get the key stuff, which you can get ala carte, and a few other minor items at a huge mark up. so if you don't need every frill, you can save a bundle picking and choosing.

the other thing they both still do is charge through the nose for Navigation. To the tune of $2,000 or close to it. Not sure if you get Carplay though without the Navi (I think BMW was sneaky. If you want the connectivity apps, you have to pay for Navigation first!)

something to be said for Acura. A few basic configurations, and that is it.

just glancing at my local dealer, they have 16 GLCs, and about 10 are below 50K, and the most expensive is 55K. a few are in the 45 and under bracket.

jmonroe · December 2016

driver100 said:

jmonroe said:

driver100 said:
WARNING: Don't buy a VIZIO TV.
We bought our 55 inch VIZIO TV exactly 3 years ago.....warranty was for 2 years, it has been used for 5 months a year, for 3 years.
The Wi-Fi worked in early November, we could watch Amazon Prime.
We tried this week and NO Wi-fi.
I called customer service 4 times, spent an hour on the phone each time. They actually lied to me a few times, said the agreement with amazon had ended, said it was a cable company problem etc.
The 3rd time after one hour, she told me to unplug the reuter - I did and the phone went dead, it was on the reuter, she was told that.
The 4th time I asked to speak to a higher level. I can only do that after we test everything again for the 78th time. This time he finally says, the wi-fi isn't working, we can send a repairman but it will cost. I said no thanks, it is the last VIZIO product I will ever buy.

Bought a Samsung at Costco for $670 today. Easy to set up, easy to operate, beautiful LCD/LED picture, wi-fi works beautiful. I know the VIZIO was expensive for a TV that was good for 3 years, but using the Driver Method it works out to $250 a year for some very worthwhile entertainment.

I just read an article that says you should not try to hoard your money when you retire. You have worked and saved so you can enjoy your retirement years, don't keep those old habits of trying to economize on everything. Don't go crazy, but, don't deny yourself something you really want, just to try to save money. So far we got a 40 inch wi-fi TV for the bedroom ($240), this new TV, and the C 250.....I am enjoying my retirement years....and I am thinking I will leave the kids a few bills to pay for their inheritance.
I keep telling Mrs. j that she needs a new Subie (it's a 2012) but she keeps telling me to keep my hands off of her car. Then she tells me she's worried about what I might do about my car in a few years.

I would show her your post about not being so cheap but the last time I showed her one of your posts (the one about the guys that liked washing machines) she turned it completely around on me. So, I ain't going to do that no more. :@

jmonroe
JM, Here's the article if you want to send it to your wife:
DON'T TRY TO UNDERSPEND IN RETIREMENT

This is especially worth reading....and sending;

The Bottom Line

Nobody would advise you to spend without good financial sense, and no wise person would tell you how to spend your money. What they will tell you is that one day you will pass away and you can’t take your money with you. You deserve to enjoy the fruits of your labor.

If you want to give money to others, do it now and enjoy their pleasure. If you want to take a trip around the world, get on the plane – and if you want to purchase the car you’ve always dreamed of driving, now is the time. (Especially that car; you can't drive forever.) Being too cheap is no wiser financially than spending too much.

Thanks for the link but I have to be careful about showing it to her. She has the knack of turning things around on me. If I'm not careful about how I go about showing it to her, she'll say something like, "you know, I think you are right. I think it is time to get another house. I'd like to build another one again. It was fun doing that when we moved to SC. !!!

The more I think about it I have not won too many battles over the years. The only ones I take pride in, so far, is her not getting another dining room set and me buying my '15 Genny as a retirement gift to myself. Other than those she is batting almost a thousand.

Yeah, I've got to be very careful with the kind of advice you are suggesting.

As for that bit about passing on some money to your kids and watching them enjoy it, we are at the age where we could start thinking about that. It has to be more fun watching the kids spend it than it has been watching the government spend it.

jmonroe

fintail · December 2016

Willkommen in Deutschland! Everything being optional is an old German tradition. My local dealer has a 69K C-class in stock, and it's not a C63.

houdini1 said:
If you want a navigation system, which comes with a bunch of other stuff it is easy to get the price over $60,000. It is a great CUV, but that price looks pretty steep to me.

fintail · December 2016

Thanks. My dad was a little older when I was born, he'd have been 80 next year. I hope yours makes it to that and beyond. My mother and maternal grandmother are going strong.

I bought the E55 the year he passed, and have had 3 other cars since that. Live a little, while you can. These are the good old days. I have no regrets with any cars I have owned. Maybe not the best fiscal decisions, but it is enjoyable.

My cable + internet is half what you pay now - I did lose a couple channels I would watch now and then, but not worth $100/month. Maybe next year I will just have internet. More money for cars or travel or hobbies, enjoyment.

nyccarguy said:

I'm sorry about your Dad @fintail. You and I are around the same age, so I'm sure it is very tough. I work for my Dad & see him 5-6 days a week. He's 70 & still works full time (retire is a 4 letter word to him).

Cars are something that are near & dear to me. I bought my Prelude a few months after the 911 Terrorist attacks. Somebody who my wife and I knew well was murdered that day. He is survived by his wife & 4 children. He was 41.

I went & leased my BMW after my Grandfather died.

I have to tell you that I hate paying the cable bill every month. I feel like I pay $200 a month to watch the 11 o'clock news. I never since at making a car payment though. Cars are something I truly enjoy.

houdini1 · December 2016

fintail said:
Thanks. My dad was a little older when I was born, he'd have been 80 next year. I hope yours makes it to that and beyond. My mother and maternal grandmother are going strong.

I bought the E55 the year he passed, and have had 3 other cars since that. Live a little, while you can. These are the good old days. I have no regrets with any cars I have owned. Maybe not the best fiscal decisions, but it is enjoyable.

My cable + internet is half what you pay now - I did lose a couple channels I would watch now and then, but not worth $100/month. Maybe next year I will just have internet. More money for cars or travel or hobbies, enjoyment.

nyccarguy said:

I'm sorry about your Dad @fintail. You and I are around the same age, so I'm sure it is very tough. I work for my Dad & see him 5-6 days a week. He's 70 & still works full time (retire is a 4 letter word to him).

Cars are something that are near & dear to me. I bought my Prelude a few months after the 911 Terrorist attacks. Somebody who my wife and I knew well was murdered that day. He is survived by his wife & 4 children. He was 41.

I went & leased my BMW after my Grandfather died.

I have to tell you that I hate paying the cable bill every month. I feel like I pay $200 a month to watch the 11 o'clock news. I never since at making a car payment though. Cars are something I truly enjoy.

Finn, you had better start budgeting and spending your cash wisely. I read somewhere that male children tend to inherit their longevity from their mother's side of the family.

houdini1 · December 2016

jmonroe said:

driver100 said:

jmonroe said:

driver100 said:
WARNING: Don't buy a VIZIO TV.
We bought our 55 inch VIZIO TV exactly 3 years ago.....warranty was for 2 years, it has been used for 5 months a year, for 3 years.
The Wi-Fi worked in early November, we could watch Amazon Prime.
We tried this week and NO Wi-fi.
I called customer service 4 times, spent an hour on the phone each time. They actually lied to me a few times, said the agreement with amazon had ended, said it was a cable company problem etc.
The 3rd time after one hour, she told me to unplug the reuter - I did and the phone went dead, it was on the reuter, she was told that.
The 4th time I asked to speak to a higher level. I can only do that after we test everything again for the 78th time. This time he finally says, the wi-fi isn't working, we can send a repairman but it will cost. I said no thanks, it is the last VIZIO product I will ever buy.

Bought a Samsung at Costco for $670 today. Easy to set up, easy to operate, beautiful LCD/LED picture, wi-fi works beautiful. I know the VIZIO was expensive for a TV that was good for 3 years, but using the Driver Method it works out to $250 a year for some very worthwhile entertainment.

I just read an article that says you should not try to hoard your money when you retire. You have worked and saved so you can enjoy your retirement years, don't keep those old habits of trying to economize on everything. Don't go crazy, but, don't deny yourself something you really want, just to try to save money. So far we got a 40 inch wi-fi TV for the bedroom ($240), this new TV, and the C 250.....I am enjoying my retirement years....and I am thinking I will leave the kids a few bills to pay for their inheritance.
I keep telling Mrs. j that she needs a new Subie (it's a 2012) but she keeps telling me to keep my hands off of her car. Then she tells me she's worried about what I might do about my car in a few years.

I would show her your post about not being so cheap but the last time I showed her one of your posts (the one about the guys that liked washing machines) she turned it completely around on me. So, I ain't going to do that no more. :@

jmonroe
JM, Here's the article if you want to send it to your wife:
DON'T TRY TO UNDERSPEND IN RETIREMENT

This is especially worth reading....and sending;

The Bottom Line

Nobody would advise you to spend without good financial sense, and no wise person would tell you how to spend your money. What they will tell you is that one day you will pass away and you can’t take your money with you. You deserve to enjoy the fruits of your labor.

If you want to give money to others, do it now and enjoy their pleasure. If you want to take a trip around the world, get on the plane – and if you want to purchase the car you’ve always dreamed of driving, now is the time. (Especially that car; you can't drive forever.) Being too cheap is no wiser financially than spending too much.

Thanks for the link but I have to be careful about showing it to her. She has the knack of turning things around on me. If I'm not careful about how I go about showing it to her, she'll say something like, "you know, I think you are right. I think it is time to get another house. I'd like to build another one again. It was fun doing that when we moved to SC. !!!

The more I think about it I have not won too many battles over the years. The only ones I take pride in, so far, is her not getting another dining room set and me buying my '15 Genny as a retirement gift to myself. Other than those she is batting almost a thousand.

Yeah, I've got to be very careful with the kind of advice you are suggesting.

As for that bit about passing on some money to your kids and watching them enjoy it, we are at the age where we could start thinking about that. It has to be more fun watching the kids spend it than it has been watching the government spend it.

jmonroe

Take it from me JM, after going on 50 years of wedded bliss, just remember two things for a happy marriage: #1. Always make your wife think she is getting everything her own way, and #2. The only way to accomplish #1 is to go ahead and let her have everything her own way.

graphicguy · December 2016

AB....good points on the TVs. Only difference I've seen is LG is the only company that is making OLEDs (although there are some rumors Sony may jump into that technology by buying panels from LG).

OLEDs have the deep blacks that plasmas were known for and the contrast ratios that LCDs are known for.

I've had no issues with any of my TVs, but have never owned a Visio.

Samsung 7xxx, 8xxx, and 9xxx series are particularly good, as are the Sony 8xx and 9xx series. As mentioned, LG OLEDs are sitting at the top of the heap, currently.

roadburner · December 2016

I'm keeping my Kuro Elite until OLED prices drop a bit more, at which point a 65" HDR will be in the main HTS, the Kuro will go to the secondary HTS, and the Panasonic plasma goes to the downstairs garage.

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