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Vehicle hunting.

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Topic: Vehicle hunting.
Posted By: agentwhale007
Subject: Vehicle hunting.
Date Posted: 04 May 2010 at 10:46pm
I know this forum is full of car enthusiasts, so I figured I'd post this info here.

Spent all day looking at the used section of dealerships for a new-to-me vehicle. 

My grandmother and mother are pitching in on it to help make it a graduation + congrats on grad school gift (Since my tuition got waived it is helping the ol' expenses quite a bit). 

We've worked on a range of 2006-2008 (With a notable exception) and trying as hard as we can to keep it in the $14k to $18k range. 

My criteria include

  • Durability. I'm about to move out to the middle of nowhereville Ohio for two years and then be out and about on my own after that, so I need something that will make budgeting easy = no breakdowns and extra costs for surprise maintenance. 
  • Moveability. I'm going to be moving my belongings to Ohio for at least nine months, maybe longer. I'm going to be possibly moving somewhere else after that for a Ph.D., and then moving to wherever I can find a job or my girlfriend is after that. It needs to be big enough to haul my crap.
  • Economyability. Obviously gas consumption is a considerable factor here. 
I'm looking in the full-sized crossover market as well as the small, compact SUV market. 

My scouring today has brought about three candidates. ,

We have: 

  • A 2007 Honda CRV/LT (Economy package), with 26,000 miles, asking price of $18,995
  • A 2007 Ford Freestyle Plus (Fancy package with leather seats, power everything, etc.), 27,000 miles, asking price of $18,900.
  • A 2010 Kia Sportage (Economy package), brand new off the lot for $20,000 plus a $2,000 factory rebate.
  • A 2010 Kia Soul Plus (Middle range package, slightly fancy) brand new off the lot for $17,000. 

These are the finds for today. I have yet to go to Hyundai or Nissan dealership, and a decision won't be made until I go there and examine what they have to offer. 







Replies:
Posted By: Impulse.
Date Posted: 04 May 2010 at 10:49pm
Honda

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Posted By: slackerr26
Date Posted: 04 May 2010 at 10:50pm
might want to check craigslist. be amazed some of the cars you can find on there for good prices. good amount of new ones as well

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Posted By: Impulse.
Date Posted: 04 May 2010 at 10:51pm

Even though I don't like the CRV's.

But for the love of god don't buy a Kia.


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Posted By: agentwhale007
Date Posted: 04 May 2010 at 10:51pm
Things to consider: 

I am not a car enthusiast. I don't care about horsepower and handling and all that nonsense. I very much drive like James May. 

And like Mr. May my preference in vehicle is luxury and simple comfort, not speed around corners. 

As a matter of fact I actually almost purchased an amazingly beautiful 2007 Buick LeSabre today with 20k miles on it, but they just wouldn't come down to a price I could afford. 




Posted By: tallen702
Date Posted: 04 May 2010 at 10:52pm
Hyundai Tucson can be had for under 18,000 brand new off the lot. If you work your awesome debating skills on the salesman, you could probably get a base-line Santa Fe for 18,000 off the lot.

Used, I'd take a look at the Outback Sport and Forrester from Subaru

You might also look into the Honda Element.

Any of those will probably last you for quite a bit. The Hyundai warranty is nice to have, and their reliability has increased to that of Honda/Toyota (pre omg it can't stop!) in recent years.

Edit:

Honda's got a nice sales event going on right now, you could probably snag a new Element in your price range with all the nice bonuses they're offering.

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Posted By: Impulse.
Date Posted: 04 May 2010 at 10:54pm

Mazda doesn't make a suv?



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Posted By: __sneaky__
Date Posted: 04 May 2010 at 10:55pm
Buy a camaro. :)
 
In all seriousness tho, out of those 4, buy the ford. You won't be disappointed.


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"I AM a crossdresser." -Reb Cpl


Forum Vice President

RIP T&O Forum


Posted By: tallen702
Date Posted: 04 May 2010 at 10:55pm
Originally posted by Impulse. Impulse. wrote:

Mazda doesn't make a suv?



They do, but it's outside of his price range. Mazdas, with the exception of the 3 series, are generally pretty pricey.

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Posted By: Hairball!!!
Date Posted: 04 May 2010 at 11:06pm
No Toyotas on the list? A Highlander seems like it would fit the bill. A 4Runner would too, but not with great fuel consumption. Unless you worry about things like accelerators sticking. Wuss.


Posted By: Eville
Date Posted: 04 May 2010 at 11:07pm
Honda Element for sure.  With the fold up seats, you can fit an amazingly large amount of crap into it.  Gas mileage is very reasonable, and it can be had in 4WD, which will be nice living in Ohio.  As far as maintenance, my friend's hasn't needed any.  

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Posted By: agentwhale007
Date Posted: 04 May 2010 at 11:09pm
Originally posted by tallen702 tallen702 wrote:

Hyundai Tucson can be had for under 18,000 brand new off the lot. If you work your awesome debating skills on the salesman, you could probably get a base-line Santa Fe for 18,000 off the lot.

Used, I'd take a look at the Outback Sport and Forrester from Subaru

You might also look into the Honda Element.

Any of those will probably last you for quite a bit. The Hyundai warranty is nice to have, and their reliability has increased to that of Honda/Toyota (pre omg it can't stop!) in recent years.

Edit:

Honda's got a nice sales event going on right now, you could probably snag a new Element in your price range with all the nice bonuses they're offering.

Thoughts on your thoughts: 

  • My friend (And soon to be apartment mate in Ohio) drives a Tuscon and loves it. It's durable as can be. I'll look into that when I go to the Hyundai dealer. 
  • My car-shopping mentor, a 75-year-old ex husband of my grandmother (My grandma has been married six times. It's a long story) said Hyundai's are great, in his opinion, one of the highest-quality for price cars out there. He told me that their "100k Mile Warranty" is a "Gawd-danged swindle" (He is North Georgia born and raised) because they build them well enough not to have problems until well after 100k miles. 
  • The Hyundai Santa Fe, as well as the Honda Element, have been scratched off my list due to size and economy. If I could find one at a perfect price I would consider it but so far have not looked at them. Also, I went to three different Honda dealerships today, none of which had any used Elements. 
  • My concern with Subaru -- and I like the wagons they make as far as gas mileage and size -- is the same as VW. If something happens to it, can I take it to a general mechanic or will I need to go to a Subaru dealership? 
  • The problem in finding good used Subaru's is the same problem in finding good used Hondas — there is a shrunken market because people don't get rid of them. 


Posted By: MeanMan
Date Posted: 04 May 2010 at 11:12pm
The Ford sounds nice if you like luxury vehicles and it has the premium package.

What about the Escape, Compass or Equinox?

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hybrid-sniper~"To be honest, if I see a player still using an Impulse I'm going to question their motives."


Posted By: agentwhale007
Date Posted: 04 May 2010 at 11:16pm
Originally posted by MeanMan MeanMan wrote:

The Ford sounds nice if you like luxury vehicles and it has the premium package.

What about the Escape, Compass or Equinox?

  • For Fords I much prefer the size and package of the Freestyle to the Escape. 
  • Don't like the look of the Compass, poor gas milage for its size and frankly out of my price range. 
  • I do like the Chevy Equinox but there are not any used ones in the area to be found. If one comes up I will look into it. I left my contact with the Chevy dealer in case one gets traded in. 
I should note that I am not in any hurry at all. I'm going to carefully examine all the options. 

Also, my truck's trade-in value isn't hardly worth listing. The old-guy guru gave it an honest free inspection and said that I could probably haggle a dealership needing a bad sale into taking it for $1,000, but I should expect any normal situation to yield a trade-in price of $750-$800. 

Nobody wants a decade-old Ford Ranger with 134,000 miles and badly in need of clutch work. 

Go figure. 


Posted By: procarbinefreak
Date Posted: 04 May 2010 at 11:20pm
i'm going to be in the same boat soon.  although my haggling skills suck... so i'm screwed


Posted By: tallen702
Date Posted: 04 May 2010 at 11:23pm
Originally posted by agentwhale007 agentwhale007 wrote:



Originally posted by tallen702 tallen702 wrote:

Hyundai Tucson can be had for under 18,000 brand new off the lot. If you work your awesome debating skills on the salesman, you could probably get a base-line Santa Fe for 18,000 off the lot.

Used, I'd take a look at the Outback Sport and Forrester from Subaru

You might also look into the Honda Element.

Any of those will probably last you for quite a bit. The Hyundai warranty is nice to have, and their reliability has increased to that of Honda/Toyota (pre omg it can't stop!) in recent years.

Edit:

Honda's got a nice sales event going on right now, you could probably snag a new Element in your price range with all the nice bonuses they're offering.

Thoughts on your thoughts: 
  • My friend (And soon to be apartment mate in Ohio) drives a Tuscon and loves it. It's durable as can be. I'll look into that when I go to the Hyundai dealer. 
  • My car-shopping mentor, a 75-year-old ex husband of my grandmother (My grandma has been married six times. It's a long story) said Hyundai's are great, in his opinion, one of the highest-quality for price cars out there. He told me that their "100k Mile Warranty" is a "Gawd-danged swindle" (He is North Georgia born and raised) because they build them well enough not to have problems until well after 100k miles. 
  • The Hyundai Santa Fe, as well as the Honda Element, have been scratched off my list due to size and economy. If I could find one at a perfect price I would consider it but so far have not looked at them. Also, I went to three different Honda dealerships today, none of which had any used Elements. 
  • My concern with Subaru -- and I like the wagons they make as far as gas mileage and size -- is the same as VW. If something happens to it, can I take it to a general mechanic or will I need to go to a Subaru dealership? 
  • The problem in finding good used Subaru's is the same problem in finding good used Hondas — there is a shrunken market because people don't get rid of them. 



My thoughts on your thoughts on my thoughts:

  • Hyundai is about where Toyota and Honda were in the early 90's: Leaving the "cheap" care stereotype behind and going for quality at a great price
  • I'm considering the Santa Fe myself for my next car. It's the only thing competing with Subaru for me right now
  • Generally speaking, in the area where you'll be living, you will find an import mechanic who can work on a subie no proble. The only thing that makes them any different is the boxer engine (which most mechanics are familiar with because they all have owned an old Porshe at one point or another) and the VCD (variable center differential). The only drawback to any AWD/4WD is the center diff. Selectable 4WD tends to be easier on the center diff becuase it isn't always engaged. VCDs tend to have a few more problems, but not many. My family has never had a VCD go out on their Subies even after 150k+miles.
  • I think your problem finding a used subie may be due to living in FL. Are you going to be flying/driving up to Athens prior to moving up there? If so, you might want to hop on over the state line to Huntington WV or Charleston WV and see what their Subie dealers have in stock.
  • You can get the Subaru Outback Sport for around 18k off the lot, or a 2.5i hatchback (outback sport w/o some of the extras) for 17k or under new.


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Posted By: GI JOES SON
Date Posted: 04 May 2010 at 11:26pm
where it stands, looks like the KIA soul is your best bet, although the factor rebate on the other one seems pretty sweet too.

although at the heart of it, i would tell you to go with jeep. the 04 i have gets about 17 MPG (crappy gas, i know) but it can haul...plus, for an 04 and not having any major problems like tranny or things like that, its been pretty damn good to me


Posted By: tallen702
Date Posted: 04 May 2010 at 11:27pm
Originally posted by procarbinefreak procarbinefreak wrote:

i'm going to be in the same boat soon.  although my haggling skills suck... so i'm screwed


I offer you this advice (Whale, pay attention). Find out what the dealer price for a car is. Go in armed with that and make it your starting price. You aren't going to get it for exactly that, but you should get it for close. It's usually 2-3k off of MSRP at least! Furthermore, dealers get kick-backs from the factory for volume sales, etc. Stand your ground. The dealer has more to lose than you do. If you walk, they lose a sale, and possibly their job. You're out what? A few minutes of your time and driving off the lot that day in a new car, who's to say you can't drive away in it tomorrow when they call you up and say "I talked with my finance manager and he says we can do 'x' better."

Also, Whale, the area you're going to be living in gets some lake effect snow, but more importantly, they tend to get freezing rain and ice. AWD/4WD is a MUST if you can swing it.

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Posted By: agentwhale007
Date Posted: 04 May 2010 at 11:30pm
Originally posted by tallen702 tallen702 wrote:

 

My thoughts on your thoughts on my thoughts:

  • Hyundai is about where Toyota and Honda were in the early 90's: Leaving the "cheap" care stereotype behind and going for quality at a great price
  • I'm considering the Santa Fe myself for my next car. It's the only thing competing with Subaru for me right now
  • Generally speaking, in the area where you'll be living, you will find an import mechanic who can work on a subie no proble. The only thing that makes them any different is the boxer engine (which most mechanics are familiar with because they all have owned an old Porshe at one point or another) and the VCD (variable center differential). The only drawback to any AWD/4WD is the center diff. Selectable 4WD tends to be easier on the center diff becuase it isn't always engaged. VCDs tend to have a few more problems, but not many. My family has never had a VCD go out on their Subies even after 150k+miles.
  • I think your problem finding a used subie may be due to living in FL. Are you going to be flying/driving up to Athens prior to moving up there? If so, you might want to hop on over the state line to Huntington WV or Charleston WV and see what their Subie dealers have in stock.
  • You can get the Subaru Outback Sport for around 18k off the lot, or a 2.5i hatchback (outback sport w/o some of the extras) for 17k or under new.

I'd love to find a nice used Subaru. 

I've heard nothing but good about them. And I've got my name down at the dealership here in town so that if anything in my range becomes available they'll give me a call. 

However, I was hoping to get the car thing secured before I move. Otherwise I don't have a way to get to Athens. My truck is dead and only able to be limped to dealerships in shame. I'm borrowing my grandmother's current husband's car (A 2005 TrailBlazer) until I find a vehicle. 




Posted By: agentwhale007
Date Posted: 04 May 2010 at 11:34pm
Originally posted by tallen702 tallen702 wrote:

 (Whale, pay attention).

Screw that noise. I'm letting my grandma do all the work. 

Watching her haggle for a price on a car is like watching a legendary artist work on their masterpiece. 

She's been doing it for far longer than I have. And she will make the process last four or five days if needed. 


Quote Also, Whale, the area you're going to be living in gets some lake effect snow, but more importantly, they tend to get freezing rain and ice. AWD/4WD is a MUST if you can swing it.

Trying to make that happen, but if I can't, I'm only living about 11 min. from the campus. 


Posted By: NiQ-Toto
Date Posted: 04 May 2010 at 11:55pm
2005 legacy gt, as i said on bookface.

Here are some other suggestions which i would look at meeting most of your criteria (some might be stretching your budget a hair):
http://www.cars.com/go/search/detail.jsp?tracktype=usedcc&csDlId=&csDgId=&listingId=37922176&listingRecNum=1&criteria=sf1Dir%3DDESC%26mkId%3D20021%26stkTyp%3DU%26mdId%3D26381%26rd%3D150%26crSrtFlds%3DstkTypId-feedSegId-mkId-mdId-prcId%26zc%3D32801%26prcId%3D28577%26rn%3D0%26PMmt%3D1-1-0%26stkTypId%3D28881%26sf2Dir%3DASC%26sf1Nm%3Dprice%26sf2Nm%3Dmiles%26rpp%3D50%26feedSegId%3D28705&aff=national - 2009 Wrangler unlimited

http://www.cars.com/go/search/detail.jsp?tracktype=usedcc&csDlId=&csDgId=&listingId=40391079&listingRecNum=0&criteria=sf1Dir%3DDESC%26mkId%3D20021%26stkTyp%3DU%26drCntId%3D28004%26mdId%3D22306%26rd%3D150%26crSrtFlds%3DstkTypId-feedSegId-mkId-mdId-prcId-drCntId%26zc%3D32801%26prcId%3D28841%26rn%3D0%26PMmt%3D1-1-0%26stkTypId%3D28881%26sf2Dir%3DASC%26sf1Nm%3Dprice%26sf2Nm%3Dmiles%26rpp%3D50%26feedSegId%3D28705&aff=national - 2007 Wrangler Unlimited

http://www.cars.com/go/search/detail.jsp?tracktype=usedcc&csDlId=&csDgId=&listingId=39664246&listingRecNum=9&criteria=sf1Dir%3DDESC%26mkId%3D20028%26stkTyp%3DU%26mdId%3D21414%26rd%3D150%26crSrtFlds%3DstkTypId-feedSegId-mkId-mdId-prcId%26zc%3D32801%26prcId%3D28644%26rn%3D0%26PMmt%3D1-1-0%26stkTypId%3D28881%26sf2Dir%3DASC%26sf1Nm%3Dprice%26sf2Nm%3Dmiles%26rpp%3D50%26feedSegId%3D28705&aff=national - 2005 ML500 (might be a pain with the whole maintenance issue, havent looked into MB SUVs at all)

http://www.cars.com/go/search/detail.jsp?tracktype=usedcc&csDlId=&csDgId=&listingId=41713867&listingRecNum=1&criteria=sf1Dir%3DDESC%26mkId%3D20041%26stkTyp%3DU%26bsId%3D20216%26mdId%3D21295%26rd%3D150%26crSrtFlds%3DstkTypId-feedSegId-mkId-mdId-prcId-bsId%26zc%3D32801%26prcId%3D28578%26prcId%3D28577%26rn%3D0%26PMmt%3D1-1-0%26stkTypId%3D28881%26sf2Dir%3DASC%26sf1Nm%3Dprice%26sf2Nm%3Dmiles%26rpp%3D50%26feedSegId%3D28705&aff=national - 2006 Impreza Wagon

http://www.cars.com/go/search/detail.jsp?tracktype=usedcc&csDlId=&csDgId=&listingId=39013091&listingRecNum=1&criteria=sf1Dir%3DDESC%26mkId%3D20089%26stkTyp%3DU%26mdId%3D22265%26rd%3D150%26crSrtFlds%3DstkTypId-feedSegId-mkId-mdId-prcId%26zc%3D32801%26prcId%3D28838%26rn%3D0%26PMmt%3D1-1-0%26stkTypId%3D28881%26sf2Dir%3DASC%26sf1Nm%3Dprice%26sf2Nm%3Dmiles%26rpp%3D50%26feedSegId%3D28705&aff=national - 2009 VW Tiguan

Ok seriously, go to cars.com or autotrader.com, type in your zip and browse. If any of these strike your fancy, look more of the same up.

Also, stay away from any low mileage Palladium Gray or Arctic White 2009 MB C350's on the east coast with P2 and MM packages. Ive got dibs on all of them until i find one to buy.

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Posted By: NiQ-Toto
Date Posted: 05 May 2010 at 12:00am
Originally posted by tallen702 tallen702 wrote:

The dealer has more to lose than you do. If you walk, they lose a sale, and possibly their job. You're out what? A few minutes of your time and driving off the lot that day in a new car, who's to say you can't drive away in it tomorrow when they call you up and say "I talked with my finance manager and he says we can do 'x' better."
Soooo true. The MB dealer i went to last week was begging me to take a $46k 2009 C300 4matic with 9000 miles and EVERY option except leather for $33k. I didnt want it, i want the extra 50hp from the C350 and they didnt have any on the lot. Theyll call me though. (:

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Posted By: tallen702
Date Posted: 05 May 2010 at 12:21am
Originally posted by NiQ-Toto NiQ-Toto wrote:

Originally posted by tallen702 tallen702 wrote:

The dealer has more to lose than you do. If you walk, they lose a sale, and possibly their job. You're out what? A few minutes of your time and driving off the lot that day in a new car, who's to say you can't drive away in it tomorrow when they call you up and say "I talked with my finance manager and he says we can do 'x' better."
Soooo true. The MB dealer i went to last week was begging me to take a $46k 2009 C300 4matic with 9000 miles and EVERY option except leather for $33k. I didnt want it, i want the extra 50hp from the C350 and they didnt have any on the lot. Theyll call me though. (:


Tell me again what kind of blood diamonds you're selling to make that kind of dough?

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Posted By: NiQ-Toto
Date Posted: 05 May 2010 at 12:32am
Tallen: The W204 (2008-2010) C350's im looking at, with all the options i want are only 30-35k. Not really that pricey when you consider other lux sedans out there. No blood diamonds need be sold for this. (;

Even a 335i can be 50+. And it looks way uglier, inside and out. And even still, youre driving a bimmer. Eww.

For example: http://www.cars.com/go/search/detail.jsp?tracktype=usedcc&csDlId=&csDgId=&listingId=38409911&listingRecNum=4&criteria=sf1Dir%3DDESC%26mkId%3D20028%26stkTyp%3DU%26mdId%3D20745%26rd%3D150%26mlgId%3D28867%26crSrtFlds%3DstkTypId-feedSegId-mkId-mdId-prcId-mlgId-trId%26zc%3D11951%26prcId%3D28642%26rn%3D0%26PMmt%3D1-1-1%26stkTypId%3D28881%26sf2Dir%3DASC%26sf1Nm%3Dprice%26sf2Nm%3Dmiles%26trId%3D23223%26rpp%3D50%26feedSegId%3D28705&aff=national - 2008 C350 Sport, 13.5k miles, P2, MM - $31k

No leather cause tex lasts longer and is easier to clean but looks just as good. And i dont care about the pano roof cause im only ever going to be in the front seat (I dont have sextracurricular activities with ladies in my cars, its uncomfortable and kind of gross).

Whale: Get at me if you have any more specific car ideas, im good with those, this vague stuff doesnt really help me find you what i think you need lol.

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///AMG What?


Posted By: tallen702
Date Posted: 05 May 2010 at 1:27am
Originally posted by NiQ-Toto NiQ-Toto wrote:

Tallen: The W204 (2008-2010) C350's im looking at, with all the options i want are only 30-35k. Not really that pricey when you consider other lux sedans out there. No blood diamonds need be sold for this. (;

Even a 335i can be 50+. And it looks way uglier, inside and out. And even still, youre driving a bimmer. Eww.

For example: http://www.cars.com/go/search/detail.jsp?tracktype=usedcc&csDlId=&csDgId=&listingId=38409911&listingRecNum=4&criteria=sf1Dir%3DDESC%26mkId%3D20028%26stkTyp%3DU%26mdId%3D20745%26rd%3D150%26mlgId%3D28867%26crSrtFlds%3DstkTypId-feedSegId-mkId-mdId-prcId-mlgId-trId%26zc%3D11951%26prcId%3D28642%26rn%3D0%26PMmt%3D1-1-1%26stkTypId%3D28881%26sf2Dir%3DASC%26sf1Nm%3Dprice%26sf2Nm%3Dmiles%26trId%3D23223%26rpp%3D50%26feedSegId%3D28705&aff=national - 2008 C350 Sport, 13.5k miles, P2, MM - $31k

No leather cause tex lasts longer and is easier to clean but looks just as good. And i dont care about the pano roof cause im only ever going to be in the front seat (I dont have sextracurricular activities with ladies in my cars, its uncomfortable and kind of gross).

Whale: Get at me if you have any more specific car ideas, im good with those, this vague stuff doesnt really help me find you what i think you need lol.


I never could get into Mercs. I think if I went German, I'd probably wind up going with Audi or Porsche. I much prefer my Japanese rally cars and touring cars. They still have enough oomph to let you enjoy the experience without being too hoity-toidy.


You know, I find it funny that you mention the sextracurricular activities. I only tried it once, and we wound up getting so pissed off at cramped positions that we yanked the floor mat out of trunk and went off into the trees. I understand the sexiness of it in the movies, but it's totally not practical.

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Posted By: FreeEnterprise
Date Posted: 05 May 2010 at 7:56am
First off, craigslist.
 
Also, sell your truck on craigslist. You could easily get $1,250 -$1,500 for a ford ranger with those miles on craigslist.
 
My 300,000 acura is finally getting into my head, so I decided it was time for me to get off my cheapskatedness and buy something.
 
My wife has been bugging me for another minivan as our kids are now too big to fit in the tiny back seat of the MDX and we often travel with 6.
 
So, I decided to get her a van. I found a 2008 Town and country touring on Craigslist for $16,000.
 
It fit the bill perfect and was actually at the dealer. Ended up talking him down to $15,000 for it, and drove it home. (I did have to put tires on it, but he sold them to me for cost).
 
Retail on the van is over $20,000. So it is worth looking for a deal, and it is the new body style so it with the 3.8l engine, gets easily 20mpg with a six speed transmission. Plus leather, stow and go, and tons of room, shoot it even has a regular outlet in the back to plug in your pc! all the doors are power and even the back liftgate is power. I like it.
 
So now I am driving the MDX. Which is another vehicle I would recommend, you can get a 2001-2004 for the price you are looking to spend. And they are VERY reliable.
 
Personally, I think the hundai would be just as reliable but not as long lasting as an acura or honda. They are made to last about 150,000 miles.
 
But, my biggest problem with hundai, is the poor rating in crash tests. I only buy 5 star vehicles, as I have lost too many friends who thought they would save some money and buy a non safe car. (cause they could drive gooder than everyone eles, now they are six feet under).
 
So, I would look at Acura MDX's and Honda CRV's or any honda for that matter. The only difference between honda and acura are the standard features and the acura's are built better, (added stablizers, more durable shocks, quieter ride, better brakes, ect).
 
A good used Acura is a heck of a deal, and they always have leather. so spilled coffee wipes off.


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They tremble at my name...


Posted By: scotchyscotch
Date Posted: 05 May 2010 at 8:45am
Get an old beamer 3 series (2000/1). Cheap and excellent.


Posted By: FreeEnterprise
Date Posted: 05 May 2010 at 8:49am
Oh, and google any car you are thinking about.
 
Example
 
http://tinyurl.com/38xfqry - http://tinyurl.com/38xfqry
 
that will give you a good idea if the car has problems or not...


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They tremble at my name...


Posted By: agentwhale007
Date Posted: 05 May 2010 at 10:34am
Originally posted by FreeEnterprise FreeEnterprise wrote:


Also, sell your truck on craigslist. You could easily get $1,250 -$1,500 for a ford ranger with those miles on craigslist.
 

Even with it needing significant clutch repair, a broken CD player and a broken seal on the third brake light so that when it rains It drips inside? 

If so, I'll try. 
 
Quote
 
So, I would look at Acura MDX's and Honda CRV's or any honda for that matter. The only difference between honda and acura are the standard features and the acura's are built better, (added stablizers, more durable shocks, quieter ride, better brakes, ect).
 
A good used Acura is a heck of a deal, and they always have leather. so spilled coffee wipes off.

I'll look around for used Acuras as well. I honestly didn't know the MDX existed. Again, I'm very much not a car person. 

So far the Honda CRV is a top choice on my list because of their reputation to last. 

My mom's past two vehicles were a 1990 Honda Accord that she got brand new, and it lasted up until 2000 when she had put about 170k miles on it. The only thing to ever go wrong with the car was that a radiator hose fell off once. 

Then she got 1999 Honda Accord, which other than people running into it, she kept and loved up until about three months ago, when she traded it in for a 2007 Honda Accord. 

At least the anecdotes I'm around support the idea that Hondas are built to last. 


Posted By: agentwhale007
Date Posted: 05 May 2010 at 10:37am
.
Originally posted by FreeEnterprise FreeEnterprise wrote:

Oh, and google any car you are thinking about.
 
Example
 
http://tinyurl.com/38xfqry - http://tinyurl.com/38xfqry
 
that will give you a good idea if the car has problems or not...

Very helpful hint. Thank you Tongue.


Posted By: FreeEnterprise
Date Posted: 05 May 2010 at 11:03am
Originally posted by agentwhale007 agentwhale007 wrote:

[QUOTE=FreeEnterprise]
Also, sell your truck on craigslist. You could easily get $1,250 -$1,500 for a ford ranger with those miles on craigslist.
 

Even with it needing significant clutch repair, a broken CD player and a broken seal on the third brake light so that when it rains It drips inside? 

If so, I'll try. 
 
[quote]
 
 
Especially if it needs stuff.
 
Craigslist ads where you are open and honest, and take lots of good pictures sell stuff. Period. (put your pics on photobucket and put a link on the ad)
 
I would much rather buy a car from an individual that will tell me all of the stuff wrong with it... Than a dealer that will lie, steal and cheat me.
 
And most people feel the same.
 
My brother in law sold his 2001 saab 95 aero in 1 hour and he even put on the ad EVERY problem the car had. (a list of over 25 items, some costing over $1,000 to repair)...
 
And it had 235,000 miles.
 
And he got $2,500 for it, and trade in they would only give $1,000...
 
Yours is a truck, (very desirable for a boys first car) and cheap... So it will go VERY fast on craigslist if the ad is good, and pics are good.
 
That mileage is pretty average actually for a 10 year old Ranger...


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They tremble at my name...


Posted By: FreeEnterprise
Date Posted: 05 May 2010 at 11:06am
I'm getting ready to put my TL on craigslist and it has almost 300,000 miles.
 
I checked around, the most I could get trade in was $1,000...
 
I bet I can get close to $3,000 for it... We shall see. I have to change the timing belt/water pump in my MDX first though...


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They tremble at my name...


Posted By: JohnnyHopper
Date Posted: 05 May 2010 at 11:09am
Protip - Be sure to mention how much ammonium nitrate can fit in the trunk when you sell you car for cash on craig's list.

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My shoes of peace have steel toes.


Posted By: FreeEnterprise
Date Posted: 05 May 2010 at 11:13am
actually, I already was joking with my friends about listing it like.
 
Excellent condition Acura TL, only has 298,999 miles but will make it easily to NYC where it can be parked in front of any Fatah target without drawing undo suspicions.
 
Trunk is large enough to hold plenty of materials, and vehicle equipped with navigation system and 225 hp to ensure quick getaway if plan goes horribly wrong.
 
But, we figured it was in bad taste...
 
 
 
 
 
 
after we laughed.
 
 


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They tremble at my name...


Posted By: Mack
Date Posted: 05 May 2010 at 11:44am
Out of your list, I'd go with the Honda.

I have an 06 CRV with the economy package.  (Only package that didn't have a sunroof . . . I really dislike them.)  The in town milage runs around 22 mpg; highway is 26-27 but I have shown it will get almost 30 when I'm not in a hurry.  My only complaint with mine is that the Honda AWD system does not provide a lot of confidence in snow/slush.  (It gets real squirrely; but, I have owned 4WD vehicles for years before this one so I might just be a little spoiled.)

I rented a Santa Fe a few years ago and you are right, the mileage is abysmal.


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Posted By: tallen702
Date Posted: 05 May 2010 at 12:51pm
As my father says, a pickup truck is always worth at least $1200 to someone who doesn't have one. No matter the condition.

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<Removed overly wide sig. Tsk, you know better.>


Posted By: FreeEnterprise
Date Posted: 05 May 2010 at 2:43pm

Here is how to win at the whole "car lot" sales cycle.

 
When they walk up, and tell you the price. It is high. for example, if they list it on craigslist, it will be a normal price, not a "window" price. A price to get you to come look at it.
 
If you walk up on the lot, it will be the higher window price.
 
So, you have to figure out the real cost. if you don't know cars, use a website like edmonds to find the "value" it will show trade in, wholesale, retail, third party for used cars.
 
You want to get as clost to wholesale as possible.
 
The longer the dealer has the used car on their lot, the closer to wholesale they will go.
 
sometimes they price stuff wrong, (like my van, after we agree'd on the price and I got him down the extra grand, he was telling me how he had shown me the wrong van... but, since he was a man of his word he would keep that price we agreed on.
 
Now, in negotiating, you almost always have to leave.
 
I always think it is best to leave anyway, as you need to do some research to find out if that car is a good car or not, and get the "real" values. (course this "real" value is subjective... so don't put too much in that blue book value)
 
I looked at this van, and told him, that it was still to high, and it needed tires.
 
Then I left.
 
Picked up the wife, and we went looking for the rest of the afternoon. I showed her tons of vans, all in the same price range, but they were older.
 
Then the last van I showed her was the one I knew she would love. But, before I showed up with her, I called and asked the sales guy to go talk to his boss, and tell him if I could have it for $15,000 out the door (tax title, ect) then I would come by and buy it...
 
He called me back and said they would lower the price from $15,999 to $15,000 but not tax and title, (another grand) unless I gave them my tl.
 
I told them I would think about it.
 
Then we got there, and looked it over and drove it. This part is critical, try everything doors, window, check the oil to see if it is low or dirty, tranny fluid, coolant (before you drive it) and look for rust.
 
If it checks out and drives good, then make another offer.

I asked for tires, and my wife wanted new floor mats.
 
They threw in brand new mats for free and tires for cost. and I made the deal.
 
But, they play you against the "manager" in the other room. Typically they want you to write down your offer, if you call, you avoid that mess, and speed up the process.
 
Tell them you are looking at some other options and list the prices... As they want sales bad.
 
End of the month, you will get the best deal.
 
car on the lot for a long time, they will sell it close to wholesale instead of taking it to the auction...
 
 
its all a game, that you can learn to win.
 
One of my best friends owns a used car lot down in NC...


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They tremble at my name...


Posted By: agentwhale007
Date Posted: 05 May 2010 at 3:17pm
Originally posted by tallen702 tallen702 wrote:

As my father says, a pickup truck is always worth at least $1200 to someone who doesn't have one. No matter the condition.


Got a call from the Buick dealership I nearly got the LeSabre from. They offered me $1,185 this time.

Turned it down. As much as I thought that LeSabre was like driving heaven.


Posted By: FreeEnterprise
Date Posted: 05 May 2010 at 3:20pm
You might do better here in Ohio...
 
That truck would do well here, and cars I bet are cheaper too...


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They tremble at my name...


Posted By: agentwhale007
Date Posted: 05 May 2010 at 3:27pm
Originally posted by FreeEnterprise FreeEnterprise wrote:

 
its all a game, that you can learn to win.


I've been watching my grandma do this for years.

She will drive through the lot first and eye cars that she is interested in, then go home and average the prices that Edmunds and Kelley Blue Book give her. Then she will actually walk on the lot, and tell the sales guy who starts to talk to her with "Look, forget the number you have written down. The number we're going to start talking about is _____."

My grandmother is a cut throat car buyer. Like I said, she once stretched a car buying negotiation into four days.


Posted By: FreeEnterprise
Date Posted: 05 May 2010 at 3:43pm
Cool!
 
That is what I am talking about!
 
Just like anything else, you have to be able to walk away if it isn't a deal.
 
And when you find a deal, still talk them down.
 
If I want to pay $15,000 for a car, I would look for cars with window prices of around $17,999... at that price range a good deal will be 3 grand less.


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They tremble at my name...


Posted By: choopie911
Date Posted: 05 May 2010 at 3:56pm
Don't get a KIA, for god sakes, do not get a KIA


Posted By: agentwhale007
Date Posted: 05 May 2010 at 4:01pm
Originally posted by choopie911 choopie911 wrote:

Don't get a KIA, for god sakes, do not get a KIA


Why not?


Posted By: Mack
Date Posted: 05 May 2010 at 4:45pm
^^^ Fine, then get one!  It's Okia with me if you do.

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Posted By: SSOK
Date Posted: 05 May 2010 at 5:47pm
From what ive seen with Kia's, they seem to be built with second class quality. Similar to the poopy Suzuki I drove for a while.
 
Im a bit bias, but I would avoid the SUVs and look for another Ranger, or a hatchback. I do not know how you like a truck, but a 2005ish Ranger with an manual transmission would be great for traveling to Ohio or wherever you are going.
 
I just see SUVs and Crossovers to be one of the most pointless vehicles to drive. Its an extremely large car, with the crappy gas mileage of a truck and limited capibilites always paired up to a gas guzzling automatic transmission.
 
 


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Posted By: tallen702
Date Posted: 05 May 2010 at 6:13pm
Originally posted by agentwhale007 agentwhale007 wrote:


Originally posted by choopie911 choopie911 wrote:

Don't get a KIA, for god sakes, do not get a KIA
Why not?


KIA, right now, is about where Hyundai was 10 years ago when it comes to quality. How many 10 year old Hyundais do you see on the road today?

For an around-town car, Kias are alright, but as a primary mode of transportation, stick to hyundai or higher.

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<Removed overly wide sig. Tsk, you know better.>


Posted By: agentwhale007
Date Posted: 05 May 2010 at 11:25pm
Originally posted by tallen702 tallen702 wrote:

Originally posted by agentwhale007 agentwhale007 wrote:


Originally posted by choopie911 choopie911 wrote:

Don't get a KIA, for god sakes, do not get a KIA
Why not?


KIA, right now, is about where Hyundai was 10 years ago when it comes to quality. How many 10 year old Hyundais do you see on the road today?

For an around-town car, Kias are alright, but as a primary mode of transportation, stick to hyundai or higher.

I did not know this.

This will play into the decision quite a bit. 

I'm not looking to have vehicle problems in some strange foreign town with strange midwestern peoples. 


Posted By: __sneaky__
Date Posted: 06 May 2010 at 12:31am
Originally posted by agentwhale007 agentwhale007 wrote:

Originally posted by tallen702 tallen702 wrote:

Originally posted by agentwhale007 agentwhale007 wrote:


Originally posted by choopie911 choopie911 wrote:

Don't get a KIA, for god sakes, do not get a KIA
Why not?


KIA, right now, is about where Hyundai was 10 years ago when it comes to quality. How many 10 year old Hyundais do you see on the road today?

For an around-town car, Kias are alright, but as a primary mode of transportation, stick to hyundai or higher.

I did not know this.

This will play into the decision quite a bit. 

I'm not looking to have vehicle problems in some strange foreign town with strange midwestern peoples. 
To quote the great Richard Hammond, “I didn’t want to wake up tied to a tree, being invited to squeal like a piggy for the entertainment of a 20-year-old psychopath in giant dungarees, with three teeth in his head and a bitter hatred of anyone who wasn’t also a 30-stone homophobic racist who shot at things he didn’t understand…”

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"I AM a crossdresser." -Reb Cpl


Forum Vice President

RIP T&O Forum


Posted By: mbro
Date Posted: 06 May 2010 at 12:37am
FE has great advice in this thread.

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Don't blame me, I voted for Kodos.


Posted By: ThatGuitarGuy
Date Posted: 06 May 2010 at 9:37am
Originally posted by mbro mbro wrote:

FE has great advice in this thread.





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Skillet:     I've never been terribly fond of the look of a vagina


Posted By: oldpbnoob
Date Posted: 06 May 2010 at 11:40am
Something to seriously consider is where you will be living. When I moved up here, we brought an Isuzu Rodeo with us. I was unable to find anyone closer than an hour away that could actually work on anything requiring plugging into the vehicles diagnostic system. I would stick with a major brand like Honda, Ford etc. Buying a VW, Subaru, KIA  or other off brand may find you having to get your vehicle towed to Columbus to get it worked on if it does break down.  Just a thought.

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"When I grow up I want to marry a rich man and live in a condor next to the beach" -- My 7yr old daughter.


Posted By: tallen702
Date Posted: 06 May 2010 at 12:02pm
Originally posted by oldpbnoob oldpbnoob wrote:

Something to seriously consider is where you will be living. When I moved up here, we brought an Isuzu Rodeo with us. I was unable to find anyone closer than an hour away that could actually work on anything requiring plugging into the vehicles diagnostic system. I would stick with a major brand like Honda, Ford etc. Buying a VW, Subaru, KIA  or other off brand may find you having to get your vehicle towed to Columbus to get it worked on if it does break down.  Just a thought.


I think he's fine with whatever he picks:
http://www.sundowngarage.com/ - Link



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<Removed overly wide sig. Tsk, you know better.>


Posted By: oldpbnoob
Date Posted: 06 May 2010 at 1:16pm
Originally posted by tallen702 tallen702 wrote:

Originally posted by oldpbnoob oldpbnoob wrote:

Something to seriously consider is where you will be living. When I moved up here, we brought an Isuzu Rodeo with us. I was unable to find anyone closer than an hour away that could actually work on anything requiring plugging into the vehicles diagnostic system. I would stick with a major brand like Honda, Ford etc. Buying a VW, Subaru, KIA  or other off brand may find you having to get your vehicle towed to Columbus to get it worked on if it does break down.  Just a thought.


I think he's fine with whatever he picks:
http://www.sundowngarage.com/ - Link

I don't see mention of Kia or Hyundai. Not trying to argue, just mentioning it. I moved from Central Florida where Whale is, to NW Ohio, where I still am and as mentioned, had a hard time finding someone to work on my Isuzu.  Shops have to buy the software that enables them to "talk" to a cars diagnositc system. This software is typically several hundred dollars and not everyone has it.  Hopefully, this shop will be able to fix it However, they most likely are not capable/authorized to do warranty work. Again, I would check and see what's in the area as far as dealerships. It would suck to have to dirve over an hour to get to a dealership and have to potentially leave it overnight resulting in added expenses. It's something people living closer to larger cities don't typically think about.

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"When I grow up I want to marry a rich man and live in a condor next to the beach" -- My 7yr old daughter.


Posted By: FreeEnterprise
Date Posted: 06 May 2010 at 1:20pm

Typically, I would want to buy where I live as well, but for a different reason. The dealership where I got my MDX used, has a free carwash program.

 
I've had the car for over 5 years now, and I get my car washed at least twice a week since...
 
FOR FREE!!! Whoot!
 
(figure $7 per wash,  52 weeks in a year that is 104 washes x 5 years = 520 washes X $7 = $3,640.00)
 
And they gave me a killer deal for it back then!


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They tremble at my name...


Posted By: FreeEnterprise
Date Posted: 06 May 2010 at 1:25pm
Oh, and if you are buying a car and need financing. NEVER talk about the financing until the deal is done.
 
Once you arrive at a purchase price, THEN talk financing.
 
And you should know your credit, and get rates from the banks you currently use. (credit unions typically have the best rates, especially if you are a new customer and will open a checking account at the same time).
 
I use USAA as my basis bank as they always give me killer deals, then go to the finance guy at the dealership and tell him what rate you can get from your guy, and see if he can beat it...
 
It will save you the cost of them trying to pin a "service" fee onto your loan, as once it is competitive they will leave that stuff out of the deal. Plus they can't nickle and dime you once the price is agreed to.
 
Oh, and get it in writing, if they say, they will fix something or give you something at cost... Write it on the contract with the brand name used, and the price, so they can't change their mind later or give you something cheaper, since it wasn't written down. Verbal agreements are rarely worth anything anymore.
 
Unless you make one with me. You are only as good as your word.
 
 
(right $5...)


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They tremble at my name...


Posted By: Monk
Date Posted: 06 May 2010 at 3:50pm
For the record James May likes the Element.

I am not sure where you guys are getting your information about Kia's from, but they have been making a quality product for the past 2 years atleast. If it was not for their retarded warranty I would have looked more into the spectra5. Plus there is something to be said about quadrupling their sales from last year.

Also, don't get a Freestyle/taurusX if you want good fuel mileage. The mileage blows and the handling was aweful, I did not feel like I was driving anything(I couldn't feel the road at all).

Sounds more like you would be best off with a wagon, like a Ford Focus wagon, Kia Spectra5, Scion Xd or Xb, Nissan Cube, Chrysler HHR, or a Kia Soul. I'm sure you could find a really nice mercedes wagon for fairly cheap also.


Posted By: choopie911
Date Posted: 06 May 2010 at 3:57pm
Originally posted by Monk Monk wrote:

Plus there is something to be said about quadrupling their sales from last year.Also, don't get a Freestyle/taurusX if you want good fuel mileage. The mileage blows and the handling was a


People buy cheap cars when money is tight? No way


Posted By: Impulse.
Date Posted: 06 May 2010 at 6:46pm
Originally posted by choopie911 choopie911 wrote:

Originally posted by Monk Monk wrote:

Plus there is something to be said about quadrupling their sales from last year.Also, don't get a Freestyle/taurusX if you want good fuel mileage. The mileage blows and the handling was a


People buy cheap cars when money is tight? No way
Lol

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[IMG]http://www.word-detective.com/berry.gif">


Posted By: tallen702
Date Posted: 06 May 2010 at 8:35pm
Originally posted by choopie911 choopie911 wrote:

Originally posted by Monk Monk wrote:

Plus there is something to be said about quadrupling their sales from last year.Also, don't get a Freestyle/taurusX if you want good fuel mileage. The mileage blows and the handling was a


People buy cheap cars when money is tight? No way


Cash for clunkers was a boon for Kia. It put people who normally only exist in the low-end of the used-car market in reach of a new, albeit cheap, car.

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<Removed overly wide sig. Tsk, you know better.>


Posted By: Hades
Date Posted: 06 May 2010 at 8:57pm
Bike, although using one with sandals can be an adventure of its own.

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Posted By: ParielIsBack
Date Posted: 06 May 2010 at 10:13pm
Originally posted by Hades Hades wrote:

Bike, although using one with sandals can be an adventure of its own.


I put some huge holes in my foot in middle school while riding a trick bike with sandals.


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BU Engineering 2012


Posted By: agentwhale007
Date Posted: 07 May 2010 at 5:49pm
I think I found the car. 

It's a 2009 Scion xB, 5-speed manual with 9,800 miles. 

Starting negotiating price is $14.9 before trade but I could probably haggle it down more. 

It is front-wheel drive and has traction control and some other control thing standard, same with side curtain airbags and the like.

One owner, according to the dealer (I'll get a Carfax report to make sure) apparently it was purchased by a 71-year-old woman who, shortly after having it, fell and broke her hip on her left side. She couldn't shift anymore (or drive much anyway) so she sold it back to the Toyota dealership. 

They also offered to give me $1,100 sight-unseen for my truck, and even tow it if it breaks down on the way to the dealership. 

Oh, and it retains its 100k mile Scion warranty because it's Toyota certified used. 

I'm going to go look at it again on Monday and let the Honda folks try and make me an offer again for the loaded CRV. 

But, the Scion looks to be a fantastic deal for now. 


Posted By: agentwhale007
Date Posted: 07 May 2010 at 5:52pm
Originally posted by Hades Hades wrote:

Bike, although using one with sandals can be an adventure of its own.

There is direct bike path from the city I am moving to, The Plains, Ohio, into the heart of the campus I will be working at and taking classes at in Athens, Ohio. 

I am looking for a bike. 

I just need one that has a seat that is comfortable for my ass. 


Posted By: agentwhale007
Date Posted: 07 May 2010 at 5:59pm
Originally posted by FreeEnterprise FreeEnterprise wrote:

Oh, and if you are buying a car and need financing.

I'll remember all that if I ever have to do anything like that. Or, when I do. 

For this purchase, it is a gift from my grandmother and mom for being the first member of the family to graduate from college. It'll be cash up front. 

By the way, I had my graduation this morning. 

I got all dressed up like a wizard and shook hands. 


Posted By: usafpilot07
Date Posted: 07 May 2010 at 6:07pm
I could not imagine graduating in all those hot gowns, with that much fur on my face, this time of year.  Yeesh.

My high school graduation was in June, and it was miserable.   Congratulations though Whale.  :hug:


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Buffalo buffalo Buffalo buffalo buffalo buffalo Buffalo buffalo


Posted By: agentwhale007
Date Posted: 07 May 2010 at 6:14pm
Originally posted by usafpilot07 usafpilot07 wrote:

I could not imagine graduating in all those hot gowns, with that much fur on my face, this time of year.  Yeesh.

My high school graduation was in June, and it was miserable.  

It was indoors, inside the basketball arena, thank God. 

However, when it was over and we went outside and people wanted pictures, it was awful. 95* plus that silly wizard robe and I had sweat dripping in my eyes after 30 seconds. 

Quote
 :hug:

Hug


Posted By: procarbinefreak
Date Posted: 07 May 2010 at 6:19pm
congrats, I got my first diploma today from my clinical site.  


Posted By: Bolt3
Date Posted: 07 May 2010 at 6:24pm
I would look at a Nissan Xterra if I were you, sounds like something you might like and could use.

Also, really a scion? Those are just all around ugly.


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<Removed sig for violation of Clause 4 of the New Sig Rules>


Posted By: Monk
Date Posted: 08 May 2010 at 12:06am
Originally posted by tallen702 tallen702 wrote:

Originally posted by choopie911 choopie911 wrote:

Originally posted by Monk Monk wrote:

Plus there is something to be said about quadrupling their sales from last year.Also, don't get a Freestyle/taurusX if you want good fuel mileage. The mileage blows and the handling was a


People buy cheap cars when money is tight? No way


Cash for clunkers was a boon for Kia. It put people who normally only exist in the low-end of the used-car market in reach of a new, albeit cheap, car.


I suppose that could be true depending on what they count as this year versus what they consider last year.
Inexpensive car yes, but to call it cheap is up to debate.


Posted By: Mack
Date Posted: 08 May 2010 at 1:54am
Originally posted by agentwhale007 agentwhale007 wrote:


I am looking for a bike. 

I just need one that has a seat that is comfortable for my ass. 


If you find a bike you like, you can always replace the seat.  I recommend one of the narrow "ergonomic" seats with the cut down the center for the tailbone.  While they are uncomfortable at first they take the pressure off the spine (which is good) and center it on the thickest part of the posterior muscle mass (which is also good).  I've used one on my bike for years and found that it mitigated the numbness problem I was having down my legs from riding.  (While this issue was probably due to my back problems, the original seat was definitely exacerbating it.)

While those big wide comfort seats may look nice and comfy, they really aren't that good for you.


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Posted By: JohnnyHopper
Date Posted: 08 May 2010 at 2:03am


Make sure you get the bike flag, grip tassels, front basket and the tight bike shorts. When it comes to bike style, go big or go home.

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My shoes of peace have steel toes.


Posted By: agentwhale007
Date Posted: 11 May 2010 at 10:18pm
The hunt is over.

Today I got a 2008 Hyundai Tucson with 15,500 miles for $19,000.

It's the "Limited" edition, in that it has power everything, heated seats, six-CD changer, etc. 

Light blue (Almost a robin's egg blue if you ask me) outside, black leather inside.

Automatic transmission, has FWD and stability control (Tolerable in the snow). Also comes with front, side and rib-cage airbags, as not to die.

The warranty they offer is fantastic too. I STILL have three years of bumper-to-bumper, and then the dealership waived the certification fees, and because it is now a certified used car, I get the remainder of the 10-year, 100k mile powertrain coverage.

They also threw in $100 in gift cards for oil changes, and three years of Hyundai's roadside assistance for free.

Oh, and the best part? They gave me $2,000 for the truck on trade in.

I think I made a good decision. Everything I've heard about Hyundai has been positive.


Posted By: Shub
Date Posted: 11 May 2010 at 10:26pm
Congrats, Whale. From everything I've been reading, Hyundai is building some great cars these days.


Posted By: NiQ-Toto
Date Posted: 11 May 2010 at 10:31pm
Pics?

Also I need to pick a damn car before i move to florida... /:

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///AMG What?


Posted By: Mack
Date Posted: 11 May 2010 at 11:45pm
I looked at the Tucson when I was vehicle hunting.  The unimpressive mileage compared to the low horsepower was the deal-killer for me.  However, I was looking at an AWD one; not FWD so that could be the difference.  They really are pretty nice vehicles. 

Since you're moving North, I have to ask how much experience you have driving in snow.

Recommendations related to this:
  • Consider investing in a set of cables (at least a set for the front wheels; a set for the back would help with stopping.
  • Remember that the more weight you put in the rear seats/cargo area the more you alter the weight differential between axles.  If you aren't careful with your load you can decrease winter handling capabilities by decreasing the weight on the drive/steering wheels in front.
  • If you're going to travel anywhere outside of urban areas in the winter pack a winter survival kit in your vehicle.
  • Watch out for black ice.


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Posted By: Reb Cpl
Date Posted: 12 May 2010 at 10:59am
Originally posted by Mack Mack wrote:


  • Remember that the more weight you put in the rear seats/cargo area the more you alter the weight differential between axles.  If you aren't careful with your load you can decrease winter handling capabilities by decreasing the weight on the drive/steering wheels in front.


Read: No fat chicks.


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Posted By: agentwhale007
Date Posted: 12 May 2010 at 3:56pm
Originally posted by Mack Mack wrote:

  I have to ask how much experience you have driving in snow.


Never even seen snow.

I have, however, driven in monsoon-style rain.


Posted By: Monk
Date Posted: 12 May 2010 at 3:59pm
Originally posted by agentwhale007 agentwhale007 wrote:

Originally posted by Mack Mack wrote:

  I have to ask how much experience you have driving in snow.


Never even seen snow.

I have, however, driven in monsoon-style rain.


Its pretty much the same rules, don't slam on the brakes and don't turn really fast.


Posted By: bravecoward
Date Posted: 12 May 2010 at 7:09pm
I live in Ohio and have never heard of plains ohio

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Posted By: SSOK
Date Posted: 12 May 2010 at 7:47pm
Originally posted by agentwhale007 agentwhale007 wrote:

Originally posted by Mack Mack wrote:

  I have to ask how much experience you have driving in snow.


Never even seen snow.

I have, however, driven in monsoon-style rain.
 
Its quite majestic to watch, but sucks when its around for what seems like an eternity, and makes everything muddy and miserable.


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Posted By: usafpilot07
Date Posted: 12 May 2010 at 11:25pm
Originally posted by SSOK SSOK wrote:

Originally posted by agentwhale007 agentwhale007 wrote:

Originally posted by Mack Mack wrote:

  I have to ask how much experience you have driving in snow.


Never even seen snow.

I have, however, driven in monsoon-style rain.
 
Its quite majestic to watch, but sucks when its around for what seems like an eternity, and makes everything muddy and miserable.


TROOF.


Snow is pretty for ~ one day.  After that, it turns brown, slushy, and sucks.


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Buffalo buffalo Buffalo buffalo buffalo buffalo Buffalo buffalo


Posted By: Hairball!!!
Date Posted: 13 May 2010 at 1:41pm
Originally posted by usafpilot07 usafpilot07 wrote:


Snow is pretty for ~ one day.  After that, it turns brown, slushy, and sucks.


Only if you don't get enough of it.



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