Edmunds Members - Cars and Conversations (Archived)

driver100 · May 2019

imidazol97 said:
Judging by the picture you posted of your dealership when you bought one of your cars, they make money both on the sale and the service. Very fancy.

They have to pay for that showroom somehow. Plus baked goods, nail salon, virtual golf range etc.;

ruking1 · May 2019

explorerx4 said:
I usually go to the carwash to get the underneath cleaned off in addition to the top. If only cleaning the body/tires/wheels, I do it myself.

Potentially that, wheel wells and engine cleaning are the more important parts.

But to the greater board, potentially doing this every quarter, 6 months or a year, plus interior detailing should keep your pretty well sorted.

For all the EV’ers who think wind/solar are the saviors of the planet. It’s really a more heavier reliance on coal fired plants & it’s RENEWAL!? But on the other hand this is very old news.
https://www.riteon.org.au/14000-abandoned-wind-turbines-litter-the-united-states/?fbclid=IwAR09roOOZnNmgUoxFnOv7QEG5KZ4-xfPJyJeeWZKchlxS2YJmMaxrveMJLo

driver100 · May 2019

roadburner said:

ruking1 said:
No, service A/B are not scams. You are mischaracterizing & misunderstanding this. (for your own reasons) Most of service A/ B items are inspections @ much higher dealer labor rates, i.e., $100.+ per hr plus+ . So any to all DIY ers, Indy shops can significantly decrease labor costs.

So yes, if one either cannot or does not want to DIY, by all means shop service A/B & individual items & Indy shops. While I sense non belief, items like air filter, oil & oil filter changes, brake fluid, etc., can safely be extended.
My gripe is with the refusal to deduct unnecessary items. For example, on my Mazdaspeed 3 I had installed a Mazdaspeed intake with a conical washable filter. At 60k Mazda called for a new air filter. My dealer removed the labor and parts charge when I brought it in for the 60k service. Ditto for when I brought the ti to my BMW dealer for an Inspection II; I had already changed the final drive oil at the beginning of track season, so that service cost was subtracted from my bill.

When I took the C250 in for an oil change they said the car indicated it was time for a "B" Service. The car was completely inspected and serviced when I bought it, we only put 6000 miles on it, so I said to do the oil change and do the cabin filter....that is something that wasn't listed as being changed before.
Next time the car goes in it will have 24000 miles on it....will do oil and brake fluid.......I will specify what has to be done.

Most people feel they are obligated to do the maximum service required, no matter what your circumstances are, and that car goes about 5500 miles a year.

driver100 · May 2019

ruking1 said:
No, service A/B are not scams! You continue to mischaracterize & misunderstand this. (for your own reasons) Most of service A/ B items are inspections, albeit @ much HIGHER dealer labor rates, i.e., $100.+ per hr plus+ . So any to all DIY ers, Indy shops can significantly decrease labor costs. Indeed the Indy shops actually follow Service A/B. They survive with LOWER labor rates. Indies get OEM parts @ the local Mercedes Benz dealer, wholesale parts.

So yes, if one either cannot or does not want to DIY, by all means shop service A/B & individual items & Indy shops. While I sense non belief, items like air filter, oil & oil filter changes, brake fluid, etc., can safely be extended. But really the decision is does one want to pay higher/lower shop rates?

I believe I have more control of an indie shop, and I trust them more. In Florida there are 2 indie shops both with 5 stars, both 30 minutes away. I tell them to do what I want....forget about A and B service. Shop rate is less too.

explorerx4 · May 2019

@ruking1,
We live in an area where a lot of ice melter is used on the roads in the winter.
Most important thing is to clean off the underneath because it eats at seals, think axles, differentials, brake lines.
Cleaning engine/wheel wells is more important? Not sure I get that.
Here is a picture of a car we have owned for 28 years.
I'm still working on cleaning it up.

ruking1 · May 2019

The oil change @ 6k miles is @ minimum 4K early. Cabin filter change was probably also way too early. But as one would agree, it’s not anybody else’s money?

ruking1 · May 2019

explorerx4 said:
@ruking1,
We live in an area where a lot of ice melter is used on the roads in the winter.
Most important thing is to clean off the underneath because it eats at seals, think axles, differentials, brake lines.
Cleaning engine/wheel wells is more important? Not sure I get that.
Here is a picture of a car we have owned for 28 years.
I'm still working on cleaning it up.

It’s amazing how much can be removed from the wheel wells & undercarriage after winter!? 👀

driver100 · May 2019

ruking1 said:
The oil change @ 6k miles is @ minimum 4K early. Cabin filter change was probably also way too early. But as one would agree, it’s not anybody else’s money?

Oil change based on time.....1 year. Don't want to mess around with that, especially since we only have a 5 month window to do it.

ab348 · May 2019

oldfarmer50 said:

NY is proposing to make texting while walking illegal and subject to heavy fines. I think the money is their real motivation. How will they enforce it, have a cop run up along side you? Most people I know would start running...or fighting.

https://nypost.com/2019/05/16/new-yorkers-on-proposed-street-texting-ban-im-still-going-to-text/

Of course, it's not just being engrossed in your phone that can be distracting to pedestrians...

abacomike · May 2019

Just got a call from my brother. He just bought a 2019 MB E450 Cabriolet in Metallic Silver with beige leather interior with navy blue leather (Yacht Blue) as the contrasting interior color. MSRP was just over $81,000. It is due at the port Monday and it is being expedited to Jacksonville by Friday.

The engine is the same as what I have - 3.0 L V6 with twin turbos - 362 hp w/368 lb ft of torque. It also is a 4-MATIC (AWD). Beautiful looking car - but having a convertible in Florida means using it with the top up a good part of the year. It has all the goodies I have on my S450.

I wished him luck. He is going to send me a photo when he picks it up.

abacomike · May 2019

ab348 said:

NY is proposing to make texting while walking illegal and subject to heavy fines. I think the money is their real motivation. How will they enforce it, have a cop run up along side you? Most people I know would start running...or fighting. https://nypost.com/2019/05/16/new-yorkers-on-proposed-street-texting-ban-im-still-going-to-text/
Of course, it's not just being engrossed in your phone that can be distracting to pedestrians...

Carrying several dozen eggs can be dangerous when walking down the sidewalk in some communities. Distractions can be worry-some at times!

explorerx4 · May 2019

Anyone notice the banana peel?

driver100 · May 2019

"ab348"

I get it....he is thinking of stealing her purse

jmonroe1 · May 2019

driver100 said:
"ab348"

I get it....he is thinking of stealing her purse

Any man that's thinking of stealing a purse after seeing what I see, has got more than money problems. If that were me it would be scrambled eggs for the whole block.

jmonroe

jmonroe1 · May 2019

explorerx4 said:
Anyone notice the banana peel?

NO.

jmonroe

driver100 · May 2019

jmonroe1 said:

driver100 said:
"ab348"

I get it....he is thinking of stealing her purse

Any man that's thinking of stealing a purse after seeing what I see, has got more than money problems. If that were me it would be scrambled eggs for the whole block.

jmonroe

I'm telling Mrs JM

oldfarmer50 · May 2019

abacomike said:
Just got a call from my brother. He just bought a 2019 MB E450 Cabriolet in Metallic Silver with beige leather interior with navy blue leather (Yacht Blue) as the contrasting interior color. MSRP was just over $81,000. It is due at the port Monday and it is being expedited to Jacksonville by Friday.

The engine is the same as what I have - 3.0 L V6 with twin turbos - 362 hp w/368 lb ft of torque. It also is a 4-MATIC (AWD). Beautiful looking car - but having a convertible in Florida means using it with the top up a good part of the year. It has all the goodies I have on my S450.

I wished him luck. He is going to send me a photo when he picks it up.

Having a convertible anywhere means using it with the top up a good part of the year.

Mine was stuck in the barn since last October and not being used at all. I took a chance today and with a running start made it out of the yard onto the driveway. Might get another day before it rains again.

oldfarmer50 · May 2019

explorerx4 said:
Anyone notice the banana peel?

Yeah, eventually.

jmonroe1 · May 2019

driver100 said:

jmonroe1 said:

driver100 said:
"ab348"

I get it....he is thinking of stealing her purse

Any man that's thinking of stealing a purse after seeing what I see, has got more than money problems. If that were me it would be scrambled eggs for the whole block.

jmonroe

I'm telling Mrs JM

Why, she knows I can make scrambled eggs.

jmonroe

driver100 · May 2019

jmonroe1 said:

driver100 said:

jmonroe1 said:

driver100 said:
"ab348"

I get it....he is thinking of stealing her purse

Any man that's thinking of stealing a purse after seeing what I see, has got more than money problems. If that were me it would be scrambled eggs for the whole block.

jmonroe
I'm telling Mrs JM

Why, she knows I can make scrambled eggs.

jmonroe

Oh, you have dropped them before

driver100 · May 2019

abacomike said:
Just got a call from my brother. He just bought a 2019 MB E450 Cabriolet in Metallic Silver with beige leather interior with navy blue leather (Yacht Blue) as the contrasting interior color.

Florida is one place I wouldn't want a convertible! I know some people love extremely hot weather. Some people think there is status in owning a convertible. Some people may like that open feeling.

I would rather have a good a/c and the protection of metal all around me!

There were two people on our street that almost always bought convertibles (about the 60's) and never put the top down....it was definitely a status thing to have a vert.

oldfarmer50 · May 2019

driver100 said:
abacomike said:
Just got a call from my brother. He just bought a 2019 MB E450 Cabriolet in Metallic Silver with beige leather interior with navy blue leather (Yacht Blue) as the contrasting interior color.

Florida is one place I wouldn't want a convertible! I know some people love extremely hot weather. Some people think there is status in owning a convertible. Some people may like that open feeling.

I would rather have a good a/c and the protection of metal all around me!

There were two people on our street that almost always bought convertibles (about the 60's) and never put the top down....it was definitely a status thing to have a vert.

I like the open feel, don’t know if the old cars I buy confer any status. I imagine summers in Florida might be too brutal but the winters there especially in morning or evening when it’s cooler would be great. Yesterday it got up to 73 here and I was in heaven with the top down.

Whatever the reason, this is the time of year several local dealers send trucks to the southern auctions to load up on convertibles taking advantage of the lower prices available as the season ends down there and begins up here.

imidazol97 · May 2019

oldfarmer50 said:
Whatever the reason, this is the time of year several local dealers send trucks to the southern auctions to load up on convertibles taking advantage of the lower prices available as the season ends down there and begins up here.

Interesting point. I see lots of truckloads of used vehicles going north and south on I75. It's always interesting how the mix of brands on the trucks often fall into the same category of vehicles--probably someone south or north loading up on what's selling well there.

We do have a large auction between Cincy and Dayton and I think a few I see are from there heading to dealers with their purchased vehicles in bulk.

I'll watch for convertibles now.

driver100 · May 2019

.........and I see small car carrier trailers in Florida with older nice looking used cars. It went through my mind if someone was really good, they could buy cheap at estate sales, and sell for a nice profit.

houdini2 · May 2019

driver100 said:
"ab348"

I get it....he is thinking of stealing her purse

driver100 said:
"ab348"

I get it....he is thinking of stealing her purse

driver100 said:
"ab348"

I get it....he is thinking of stealing her purse

What purse?

henryn · May 2019

driver100 said:
abacomike said:
Just got a call from my brother. He just bought a 2019 MB E450 Cabriolet in Metallic Silver with beige leather interior with navy blue leather (Yacht Blue) as the contrasting interior color.

Florida is one place I wouldn't want a convertible! I know some people love extremely hot weather. Some people think there is status in owning a convertible. Some people may like that open feeling.

I would rather have a good a/c and the protection of metal all around me!

There were two people on our street that almost always bought convertibles (about the 60's) and never put the top down....it was definitely a status thing to have a vert.

I'm a big fan of TCM (Turner Classic Movies). Back in the day, you would see many more convertibles in the movies than you would ever see on the street. The reason, of course, was so that they could film from outside the car, as movie cameras of that time were huge. These days, they can fit a movie camera anywhere.

oldfarmer50 · May 2019

driver100 said:
.........and I see small car carrier trailers in Florida with older nice looking used cars. It went through my mind if someone was really good, they could buy cheap at estate sales, and sell for a nice profit.

I’m sure most estate cars are scooped up by slick dealers who pay kick backs to funeral homes who “counsel” grieving executors to “see this guy”. I have seen some low mileage cars on Florida CL being marketed by relatives. Usually for way more than PP book.

oldfarmer50 · May 2019

Here's a job I stumbled on in Tampa listings. I wonder if these are the guys Sandy used to work for.

https://tampa.craigslist.org/hil/trp/d/drivers-needed/6892434365.html

oldfarmer50 · May 2019

I think that photo of the guy carrying eggs has been reposted more than any car picture.

Somebody must really like eggs.

cdnpinhead · May 2019

That or cheap blondes.

driver100 · May 2019

oldfarmer50 said:
I think that photo of the guy carrying eggs has been reposted more than any car picture.

Somebody must really like eggs.

Yeh, we like looking at eggs!

explorerx4 · May 2019

I asked for a quote for my Fusion from vroom.
Thinking about dropping down a vehicle again, at least for a while.

ruking1 · May 2019

houdini2 said:

driver100 said:
"ab348"

I get it....he is thinking of stealing her purse

driver100 said:
"ab348"

I get it....he is thinking of stealing her purse

driver100 said:
"ab348"

I get it....he is thinking of stealing her purse

What purse?

One has to love those seven flats of eggs!🍳

ab348 · May 2019

cdnpinhead said:
That or cheap blondes.

You obviously weren't looking at her hair.

When I first saw the pic it was the banana peel that made me laugh so hard.

oldfarmer50 · May 2019

explorerx4 said:
I asked for a quote for my Fusion from vroom.
Thinking about dropping down a vehicle again, at least for a while.

What are you going to use as a grocery getter? The F-150 must be tough to park at the mall.

Just curious, how does their offer compare to Edmunds TMV?

cdnpinhead · May 2019

ab348 said:
You obviously weren't looking at her hair.

Excellent point. I got this mixed up in what's left of my mind with the other sexist evil thread dealing with the MB.

abacomike · May 2019

@driver100:

You mentioned in a previous post that you considered convertibles a “status symbol” or something to that effect. I disagree with your comment, driver. A convertible is no more a status symbol than a Corvette, a Tesla, a Miata, a Spider, or most other cars.

I do consider a Rolls Royce, a Bentley, a Ferrari, a Bugatti, or other similar vehicles more as status symbols.

There was a time when a Mercedes was considered as a status symbol, however in recent years (the last 10-15), a Mercedes Benz has become quite a popular vehicle here in the USA. I have never purchased or leased a Mercedes Benz to “show off” or possess as a status symbol. I drive them because of their appearance, safety, advanced technology, comfort, and dependability.

But a convertible is really not a status symbol, IMHO.

abacomike · May 2019

Tonight is the last episode of “Game of Thrones” on HBO. It is kind of “anticlimactic” inasmuch as the series is over after tonight. I have rarely enjoyed a TV series as much as I have GOT. I know some of you guys don’t particularly care for it.

These last 6 episodes of season 8 cost just over 99 million dollars to produce. GOT is the most expensive TV series ever produced for television. The acting is superb and the special effects are awesome.

driver100 · May 2019

abacomike said:
@driver100:

You mentioned in a previous post that you considered convertibles a “status symbol” or something to that effect. I disagree with your comment, driver. A convertible is no more a status symbol than a Corvette, a Tesla, a Miata, a Spider, or most other cars.

I do consider a Rolls Royce, a Bentley, a Ferrari, a Bugatti, or other similar vehicles more as status symbols.

There was a time when a Mercedes was considered as a status symbol, however in recent years (the last 10-15), a Mercedes Benz has become quite a popular vehicle here in the USA. I have never purchased or leased a Mercedes Benz to “show off” or possess as a status symbol. I drive them because of their appearance, safety, advanced technology, comfort, and dependability.

But a convertible is really not a status symbol, IMHO.

Mike, I think you read more into my post than I was trying to convey. First, I don't think a Mercedes is much if any status symbol, I didn't mention Mercedes in my post.

Driver said: Florida is one place I wouldn't want a convertible! I know some people love extremely hot weather. Some people think there is status in owning a convertible. Some people may like that open feeling.

I would rather have a good a/c and the protection of metal all around me!

There were two people on our street that almost always bought convertibles (about the 60's) and never put the top down....it was definitely a status thing to have a vert.

Then I said I believe some people think a convertible is a status symbol, and I know of people who think it is really special to own a convertible. I think convertibles used to be quite a bit more expensive but now with cheaper electronics they aren't that much more. It could be considered by some to denote status since you don't need to own a practical car....a convertible is more a fun thing. A van is practical, and SUV can be used for everyday and for personal use, but, a convertible, that shows you have some leisure time on your hands and your car isn't just there to get you to work and back. A convertible....that guy probably goes golfing every day. Or, a convertible might be to make a statement....I am a fun person or I am not a practical person, or I am a fun loving bachelor or bachelorette. I am sure some people like to have the sun on them as much as possible. Sometimes cars do make a statement about us......I am practical, I am a fun person, I don't care what I drive....etc.

So, my question is, why does your brother buy convertibles? I am not accusing or judging, just wonder why he buys convertibles.....didn't he have one before? And, if not why did he get this one....does he really love driving with the roof down in Florida?

People buy convertibles for many reasons, not often for status. Oldfarmer probably considers his a chick magnet

driver100 · May 2019

"houdini2

I get it....he is thinking of stealing her purse

What purse?
....and another thing....what kind of sign is that above the front door of the store?

jmonroe1 · May 2019

ab348 said:

cdnpinhead said:
That or cheap blondes.
You obviously weren't looking at her hair.

When I first saw the pic it was the banana peel that made me laugh so hard.

That pic was obviously made for the internet. Who in their right mind would carry eggs like that? However, the camera was at the perfect angle and the rest of that pic didn't look like a fake to me.

jmonroe

abacomike · May 2019

driver100 said:

@driver100:

You mentioned in a previous post that you considered convertibles a “status symbol” or something to that effect. I disagree with your comment, driver. A convertible is no more a status symbol than a Corvette, a Tesla, a Miata, a Spider, or most other cars.

I do consider a Rolls Royce, a Bentley, a Ferrari, a Bugatti, or other similar vehicles more as status symbols.

There was a time when a Mercedes was considered as a status symbol, however in recent years (the last 10-15), a Mercedes Benz has become quite a popular vehicle here in the USA. I have never purchased or leased a Mercedes Benz to “show off” or possess as a status symbol. I drive them because of their appearance, safety, advanced technology, comfort, and dependability.

But a convertible is really not a status symbol, IMHO.
Mike, I think you read more into my post than I was trying to convey. First, I don't think a Mercedes is much if any status symbol, I didn't mention Mercedes in my post.
Driver said: Florida is one place I wouldn't want a convertible! I know some people love extremely hot weather. Some people think there is status in owning a convertible. Some people may like that open feeling. I would rather have a good a/c and the protection of metal all around me! There were two people on our street that almost always bought convertibles (about the 60's) and never put the top down....it was definitely a status thing to have a vert.
Then I said I believe some people think a convertible is a status symbol, and I know of people who think it is really special to own a convertible. I think convertibles used to be quite a bit more expensive but now with cheaper electronics they aren't that much more. It could be considered by some to denote status since you don't need to own a practical car....a convertible is more a fun thing. A van is practical, and SUV can be used for everyday and for personal use, but, a convertible, that shows you have some leisure time on your hands and your car isn't just there to get you to work and back. A convertible....that guy probably goes golfing every day. Or, a convertible might be to make a statement....I am a fun person or I am not a practical person, or I am a fun loving bachelor or bachelorette. I am sure some people like to have the sun on them as much as possible. Sometimes cars do make a statement about us......I am practical, I am a fun person, I don't care what I drive....etc. So, my question is, why does your brother buy convertibles? I am not accusing or judging, just wonder why he buys convertibles.....didn't he have one before? And, if not why did he get this one....does he really love driving with the roof down in Florida? People buy convertibles for many reasons, not often for status. Oldfarmer probably considers his a chick magnet

Why my brother bought another convertible is quite complicated - but simply put, he just wanted something different to drive. He loves cars, as do I, and he just got tired of his GLC. He loves driving with the top down, and he is lucky enough to afford whatever he wants - and I respect that.

venture · May 2019

driver100 said:
"houdini2

....and another thing....what kind of sign is that above the front door of the store?

The sign says "EGGS".

explorerx4 · May 2019

@oldfarmer50,
The truck can be tough to park, but as far as the grocery store is concerned, I go on Sunday and have been going early.
At work, we have around 400 people, but I'm in the top 3 to get there, so I pretty much have my choice of spots to park.

Had a tougher time parking at Lowes today.

ab348 · May 2019

driver100 said:

....and another thing....what kind of sign is that above the front door of the store?

Eez Russian.

Here is a better pic of the lady in question (not exactly as illustrated):

carnaught · May 2019

ab348 said:

driver100 said:

....and another thing....what kind of sign is that above the front door of the store?
Eez Russian.

Here is a better pic of the lady in question (not exactly as illustrated):

Yeah, she's now got on a different outfit.

explorerx4 · May 2019

Natasha!

Mr_Shiftright · May 2019

Get squirrel!

driver100 · May 2019

abacomike said:

driver100 said:

abacomike said:
@driver100:

You mentioned in a previous post that you considered convertibles a “status symbol” or something to that effect. I disagree with your comment, driver. A convertible is no more a status symbol than a Corvette, a Tesla, a Miata, a Spider, or most other cars.

I do consider a Rolls Royce, a Bentley, a Ferrari, a Bugatti, or other similar vehicles more as status symbols.

There was a time when a Mercedes was considered as a status symbol, however in recent years (the last 10-15), a Mercedes Benz has become quite a popular vehicle here in the USA. I have never purchased or leased a Mercedes Benz to “show off” or possess as a status symbol. I drive them because of their appearance, safety, advanced technology, comfort, and dependability.

But a convertible is really not a status symbol, IMHO.
Mike, I think you read more into my post than I was trying to convey. First, I don't think a Mercedes is much if any status symbol, I didn't mention Mercedes in my post.
Driver said: Florida is one place I wouldn't want a convertible! I know some people love extremely hot weather. Some people think there is status in owning a convertible. Some people may like that open feeling.

I would rather have a good a/c and the protection of metal all around me!

There were two people on our street that almost always bought convertibles (about the 60's) and never put the top down....it was definitely a status thing to have a vert.

Then I said I believe some people think a convertible is a status symbol, and I know of people who think it is really special to own a convertible. I think convertibles used to be quite a bit more expensive but now with cheaper electronics they aren't that much more. It could be considered by some to denote status since you don't need to own a practical car....a convertible is more a fun thing. A van is practical, and SUV can be used for everyday and for personal use, but, a convertible, that shows you have some leisure time on your hands and your car isn't just there to get you to work and back. A convertible....that guy probably goes golfing every day. Or, a convertible might be to make a statement....I am a fun person or I am not a practical person, or I am a fun loving bachelor or bachelorette. I am sure some people like to have the sun on them as much as possible. Sometimes cars do make a statement about us......I am practical, I am a fun person, I don't care what I drive....etc.

So, my question is, why does your brother buy convertibles? I am not accusing or judging, just wonder why he buys convertibles.....didn't he have one before? And, if not why did he get this one....does he really love driving with the roof down in Florida?

People buy convertibles for many reasons, not often for status. Oldfarmer probably considers his a chick magnet

Why my brother bought another convertible is quite complicated - but simply put, he just wanted something different to drive. He loves cars, as do I, and he just got tired of his GLC. He loves driving with the top down, and he is lucky enough to afford whatever he wants - and I respect that.

I do too!
I have no right to ask, but, I am curious what the reason was.
I had a 2008 BMW 328 Cabriolet. I traded in my 2004 X3 which I used for business. Mrs D encouraged me to get the convertible so I wouldn't miss working..........the convertible was the start of my retirement. It felt like freedom 55........a purely impractical car that was made for fun!

driver100 · May 2019

venture said:

driver100 said:
"houdini2

....and another thing....what kind of sign is that above the front door of the store?

The sign says "EGGS".

A store that specializes in selling "eggs"?

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