Wildguzzi.com
General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: Stormtruck2 on September 13, 2015, 07:59:36 PM
-
http://www.junctionauto.net/autos_asearch.php?te_class=autos&te_mode=table&te_asearch=true&te_qsearch=true&auto_type=&yearMade=&make=Mercedes-Benz&model=&stockNumber=&vin=&search=Search
Looking at this Mercedes to replace Lorraine's Mitsubishi Eclipse GTS. Due to deteriorating health she is having greater and greater difficulty ingressing and egressing her car. I don't even attempt to. Her requirements for her new chariot are:
1) AWD or 4X4
2) Three rows of seating, second row can be captains seats
3) Dark interior ( I know this has a lighter interior)
4) Navigation (she is Corrigan blessed)
My main attraction is that it is a CDI Diesel. Diesels can run much longer than the bodies. Locally it is easier to purchase diesel than premium, which her Eclipse requires. I know we have a broad spectrum of people on here, MB to Yugo drivers. So those with MB experiance, please pipe up and tell me the neat and hairy of owning this vehicle.
-
Ive found out through personal experience and the experience of friends and family that if you want a Benz, Beemer, Jag or any other high end car buy it new or lease it and drop it like a bad habit when the warranty is almost up. As a recent example a good friend just retired and treated himself to a 3 yr old BMW X5 Diesel lease return with 30k miles on it. It was sold as certified by a local Bmw dealer. He has had it in the shop more times in the 6 months of owning it than his the previous 17 years of his old Toyota 4 runner. Obviously he really feels like he made a terrible decision.
-
Matt , I suggest a Subaru . Sorry to hear our girl isn't doing so well .
Dusty
-
http://www.junctionauto.net/autos_asearch.php?te_class=autos&te_mode=table&te_asearch=true&te_qsearch=true&auto_type=&yearMade=&make=Mercedes-Benz&model=&stockNumber=&vin=&search=Search
Looking at this Mercedes to replace Lorraine's Mitsubishi Eclipse GTS. Due to deteriorating health she is having greater and greater difficulty ingressing and egressing her car. I don't even attempt to. Here requirements for her new chariot are:
1) AWD or 4X4
2) Three rows of seating, second row can be captains seats
3) Dark interior ( I know this has a lighter interior)
4) Navigation (she is Corrigan blessed)
My main attraction is that it is a CDI Diesel. Diesels can run much longer than the bodies. Locally it is easier to purchase diesel than premium, which her Eclipse requires. I know we have a broad spectrum of people on here, MB to Yugo drivers. So those with MB experiance, please pipe up and tell me the neat and hairy of owning this vehicle.
Times have changed. I've owned several MB and currently have an SLK in the stable. Mercedes are no longer more durable than other manufacturers. If you want a CDI go for the last of the cast iron inline sixes. I think the last year was 2006. Avoid the OM642 that came immediately after.
I usually tell people that if they want a Mercedes, buy a Lexus.
-
Matt , I suggest a Subaru . Sorry to hear our girl isn't doing so well .
Dusty
Would consider a Subbie if t had a third row.
-
the obvious choice is a used Suburban. Must be plenty in Iowa. There must be a reason that you didn't consider it. No, you won't get great mileage but 4wd and 3 rows of seats and that goes with the territory.
I hope the Mrs feels better.
-
I usually tell people that if they want a Mercedes, buy a Lexus.
:thumb:
Godmother had a CDI on lease. Has leased three gassers ever since for a reason. My wife did 200,000 miles over 15 yrs on Lexus #1. #2 has 60,000 over 5 yrs. 20 years and only a wheel bearing on #1 outside of normal maintaince.
-
the obvious choice is a used Suburban. Must be plenty in Iowa. There must be a reason that you didn't consider it. No, you won't get great mileage but 4wd and 3 rows of seats and that goes with the territory.
I hope the Mrs feels better.
Looked a Suburbans, but just too big for Lorraine. Vehicles looked at are Explorers, Acadia, Enclaves, and will be checking out CX-9s. She wants third row but not something truck sized. Entry height is a problem. With her back too low is difficult, and too high is also. The MB seems to be a good possibility, if it is not a C-note eater for repairs.
-
Aren't those things MB badge Chryslers? The MB's aren't trouble free. Getting info on them like a repair manual are a little harder to obtain. Not sure I'll buy another one. It's more the dealer service than the vehicle.
Brake pads have been the easiest of any vehicle to replace. Have had no problems with the drivetrain. 2nd sedan one for the wife. Don't know how their suv's are.
-
Times have changed. I've owned several MB and currently have an SLK in the stable. Mercedes are no longer more durable than other manufacturers. If you want a CDI go for the last of the cast iron inline sixes. I think the last year was 2006. Avoid the OM642 that came immediately after.
I usually tell people that if they want a Mercedes, buy a Lexus.
It is the OM642 motor I believe.
-
There's also the three-seat not-as-big-as-a-Suburban option of Traverse/Acadia/Enclave. I rented a Traverse and drove it from Vegas to Palm Springs to Tucson and back to Vegas, a veritable Sonoran Desert Tour, and I loved it (Although I have a moral problem with Government Motors.)
Anyway--check it out.
-
Just wondering, why the need for a third row?
-
Ford Flex, I'm not even a ford fan but helped my buddy get a vehicle for his family. He didn't really care who made it as long as it had everything it needed. Test drove different vehicles with him and he he box styled flex was amazing.
The interior set-up is what impressed the hell out of me, when four big guys can fit very comfortably in that vehicle on a long trip I give it a thumbs up. The GM line is quite nice also, dependable but do change the oil every 5,000 or sooner, otherwise cam chains will stretch, usually under the warranty period and once fixed your good to go.
-
As others have posted, Mercedes is no longer the extremely dependable cars that they used to be. The complex electrical systems are well known for causing multiple trips (and mucho $$$$$) to repair, only to go wonky again and again. The transmissions are also known for poor reliability.
You would be very wise to look at other brands that are more dependable and that won't have the huge repair bills.
-
Minivan?
-
...Vehicles looked at are Explorers, Acadia, Enclaves, and will be checking out CX-9s. She wants third row but not something truck sized.....
A good friend has a GMC Acadia, SLT trim I believe. 3rd row seat folds flat, power lift, back up camera. I have driven it both in town and on the highway and find it to be a nice vehicle.
I have told several friends that if I ever even mention I'm thinking about buying anything built by General Motors please slap some sense back into me or shoot me. However, this new crop of General Motors SUVs seem to be a cut above & get pretty reasonable ratings.
-
Just wondering, why the need for a third row?
Grandkids, 7 of them. :shocked: :shocked:
-
There's also the three-seat not-as-big-as-a-Suburban option of Traverse/Acadia/Enclave. I rented a Traverse and drove it from Vegas to Palm Springs to Tucson and back to Vegas, a veritable Sonoran Desert Tour, and I loved it (Although I have a moral problem with Government Motors.)
Anyway--check it out.
We looked at a used 2013 Traverse LTZ, but it was bought before we got back to drive it. Drove an Enclave, but not an Acadia. Liked the interior of the Acadia better than the Enclave. Am looking at all options. My choice was a new motorcycle but she put the kibosh on that straight away. :evil:
-
Minivan?
Grandkids, 7 of them. :shocked: :shocked:
Minivans are the safest vehicles on the road . Yeah , I know , they don't fit in your macho lifestyle Matt :grin: But you did mention grandkids .
Dusty
-
The MB seems to be a good possibility, if it is not a C-note eater for repairs.
Well if something goes wrong it will be. There's no way around it really. They're great cars, and I trust them as a whole more than many other luxury brands, but when repairs are needed if you're out of warranty you'll be out of cash. I had a GL450 for a bit and loved it, but the few minor repairs I had to make were ridiculously priced.
There are plenty of mid size SUVs with third row options. Take some time to try a few out.
-
Looked a Suburbans, but just too big for Lorraine. Vehicles looked at are Explorers, Acadia, Enclaves, and will be checking out CX-9s. She wants third row but not something truck sized. Entry height is a problem. With her back too low is difficult, and too high is also. The MB seems to be a good possibility, if it is not a C-note eater for repairs.
A Tahoe or Yukon is shorter and much more maneuverable. I love my Suburban. Getting ready to pass 270,000 miles.
My mom went from a Suburban to a Yukon and really appreciates the shorter length for driving in town. Still has the 3rd row seating, but just not as much storage behind the 3rd row as a Suburban. 3rd row is easily removable, and then plenty of storage.
My dad has had several Mercedes Benz cars over the past 30-years. Great cars, but as mentioned, the newer ones are pretty expensive to maintain. His current S-Class sedan is a 3rd car and spends most of its time in the garage, being used mainly to haul family to dinner, or the wife to social events. It's just too expensive to maintain as a daily driver. Beautiful, comfortable, fast car! But I'd rather have a Lincoln Town Car if I had to pay for trips to the shop!!!
-
I have no Mercedes info to relate. However the Minivan comment does check the boxes! My wife loves her Grand Caravan. They are changing them or losing a model next year and Dodge is selling them at a good discount.
I like the minivan also. Amazing what we can put in there and leave my truck behind!!
-
Man there is some HEAVY BULLSHIT being spread here...
Mercedes Are great cars. We bought a 1999 SL500 in 2003 with 40K miles. We now have close to 170K Miles and it is one sound automobile.
Lexus and Subarus My ASS. If you want a Mercedes, Get A Mercedes.
There is a reason why you are here on a Moto Guzzi list, and not on a Suzuki or Yamaguchi site. And that reason is you prefer Moto Guzzi, as do I,
And I also prefer Mercedes above all others, save perhaps 911S Porsche.
Merecdes I have owned include A '67 230s, '78 240D, 94 300E and '99 SL500. All of them great cars. Solid, like a Tank. And on all of them, the only time I had to pay an above average part price was the battery for the Diesel.
I have also owned Toyota ( Aka: Lexus) and Datsun ( Aka: Nissan ) and have worked with Subaru ( GM ) trucks. The only positive I can say about them all is that they had good engines and OK transmissions.
Oh, yeah...the Subarus had stainless exhaust systems. That was good.
The rest, such as interiors, hydraulics and electrics was - Meh...sheet-metal SUCKED. The Bumpers were as thin as Rice Paper.
Parts in general, such as starters, headlights/ taillights were more expensive than their Mercedes or Porsche equivalents; and they were POS in comparison to the quality of similar stuff from Germany.
Look, has Mercedes had some issues..? I guess so, from what I hear from naysayers - but I never had any in 40 years of owning MBZs..
OTOH, I have had serious crap dealt to me from Toyota and Datsun. One time, a wheel just fell apart on me while on the freeway. It was on a Toyota Corolla and the wheel broke all along the bolt holes. Fortunately it was a rear wheel, so I was able to coax the car to the roadside as soon as I felt it wobbling back there. Had it been a front wheel, I'd been rightfully fukked.
But think about that. What kind of recycled rinky-dink steel is THAT..? And don't get me started on electrics.
I will never own Japanese cars again. I know that here are some real fanboys for those on here, and to them I say: "whatever floats your boat"
But when it comes to Mercedes, you don't know Doodly-Squat. Not unless you have had 4 continuous Decades with MBZs under your ass.
One bad personal experience, or worse, what negative your hear from someone else, is minimal anecdotal evidence, at the very best.
At this point I my life, I only go with what I know works. And for me with cars, it is Mercedes Benz road cars and Jeep XJs 4X4 made from 1991 - 2000 with the 4.0L HO engine.
With motorcycles, it is Tonti framed, Round Fin Le Mans Moto Guzzis.
With pistols, it is Browning Hi Power and Sig P226 / 229, in 9mm
Revolvers: Dan Wesson .44 mag, Colt python and S&W 586.
Rifles: AKMs 7.62X39 and FN FAL in 7.62 X 51 ( .308)
To be somewhat fair, I will say that there are some Japanese cars I would maybe consider at this time. The 1984 Toyota land-cruiser, 1967 Datsun 1600 Roadster and 1990 Honda ( Acura) NSX.
And That's It.
But I would take an equivalent vintage and style Mereceds Benz model over any of those three every day of the week and thrice on Sunday.
-
-
Man there is some HEAVY BULLSHIT being spread here...
-
It's their opinions and some of those opinions are based on real experience...My friend bough a late model MB SUV, it was without a doubt the most trouble prone vehicle he ever owned.repair bill were outrageous So bad he dumped it for a huge loss...
-
Mercedes Are great cars. We bought a 1999 SL500 in 2003 with 40K miles. We now have close to 170K Miles and it is one sound automobile.
Look, has Mercedes had some issues..? I guess so, from what I hear from naysayers - but I never had any in 40 years of owning MBZs..
BUT, have you owned any newer than that '99? Your '99 SL with gas v8 is completely different than an '07 GL320 with v6 CDI. I'm a big fan of (older) Mercedes-Benz products, but wouldn't touch anything of theirs (past '06) with a 10 foot pole unless I was wealthy and could afford to waste $$.
-
As others have posted, Mercedes is no longer the extremely dependable cars that they used to be. The complex electrical systems are well known for causing multiple trips (and mucho $$$$$) to repair, only to go wonky again and again. The transmissions are also known for poor reliability.
You would be very wise to look at other brands that are more dependable and that won't have the huge repair bills.
Just piling on about German cars. My neighbor has a couple of Beemers. He likes working on them like some here like to play with their Guzzis; he has one car that he uses for track days. Anyway, his daily driver was overheating. He showed me the ELECTRIC water pump he pulled. He wouldn't tell me what the replacement costs. An Electronically controlled electric water pump with an attached aluminum thermostat housing? Why?
-
I'm a big fan of German cars and have a '12 and '15 Audi in my driveway. I find German cars to be better built, more fun to drive, and the interiors vastly superior to most domestic offerings. That said, they generally require a lot more maintenance than an American or Asian car, and that service can be pretty pricey. Unless you're doing all of your own maintenance and repairs, you'll either have to find a German car specialist shop or go to a dealer. Modern cars have become almost impossible for the average home mechanic to work on, requiring specialized tools and diagnostic computers to complete even basic service. Most of them don't even have dipsticks to check the oil, instead relying upon an electronic sensor. Luckily those never fail. An independent shop would be more economical, but the manufacturers, especially the Germans, hold back a lot of knowledge for the exclusive use of their franchised dealers. You can expect to pay close to $200 per hour for MB Dealer shop time, maybe $150 or so in Iowa.
I'd probably steer clear of that MB personally. A quick glance at the Carfax shows 3 or 4 previous owners and a trip to the auction. The maintenance history is a bit spotty, but you can see a bunch of repairs early in its life that if you had to pay for would probably be pretty pricey. Here's one of the larger entries:
10/31/2009 38,509 Mercedes-Benz of Orlando
Maitland, FL
407-645-4222
mborlando.com Maintenance inspection completed
Seat(s) checked
Battery replaced
Cruise control servo replaced
DVD player replaced
Steering column covers replaced
Battery/charging system checked
Door latch adjusted
Electrical system checked
Front turn signal/parking bulb(s) replaced
Console repaired
Air suspension compressor replaced/repaired
Sensing and diagnostic module replaced
Seat memory computer/module reprogrammed
Steering/suspension checked
There seems to be a history of suspension and electrical issues with this car. On the other hand, perhaps the previous owners worked out all the bugs and it will be trouble-free through 200K miles. MB are generally regarded as the most reliable of the German brands. There are several more repair entries saying things like 'module replaced' or 'suspension checked'. You can't believe everything you read in a CarFax report, but there's enough there to give me pause. The detailed repair history drops off in 2013 at about 80K miles. Unless they can provide receipts you'll probably have to assume nothing has been done since and it's probably due for some major services. Modern luxury cars are just so incredibly complex and loaded with (expensive) electronic gadgets and safety features that I"m not sure how they'll hold up long-term.
-
Just say no! :violent1:
-
There are at least 3 good benz foums. I would start with benzworld and find the sub forum related to that model and educate yourself. May be existing threads on this model or you may have to start one.
My 1999 E300D sedan, broke the right rear window regulator yesterday. The forum has been working on this since 2007, with mods and fixes. Turns out a part change from metal to plastic and the plastic slider break often. $11 to obtain stronger part and then pictures in the thread also videos to show how to fix.
If you like DIY, then the forums have some very experienced owners, sorta like this forum for MGs!
-
My Boss has been driving Mercedes and BMW's for a long time. Since I've known him (close to 20 years), I don't know anyone that has spent so much money keeping cars on the road. While I would say the frequency of repairs is not all that bad, the cost and complexity of the repair, is obscene. It seems doing anything on these cars is in the thousand dollar an up range.
The last one being his wifes SL600 there was some crazy problem that caused an oil leak. Something about the intake manifold using epoxy instead of a gasket. Dealer cost to repair was over $10k. He got it done at a private shop for $7k. The owner, a former certified mercedes mechanic said he could expect to have to do it again in another 40k miles as it is an inherent design flaw.
I was with him at the BMW dealer when the service manager (after an extensive warranty repair) told him to get rid of the car before the extended warranty ran out, saying "few people can afford to own these cars out of warranty".
After he got rid of his last Beemer, he is now driving a Tesla and loves it. I doubt he'll ever buy another German luxury car. I think there is a reason they give you 3 years warranty and maintenance included.
-
MB makes some nice cars however, if you get a problem one, and they are out there. It's going to get real pricey real quick. If you can get over the image thing a minivan is very practcal, easy to get in an out of and a comfy seating position. I would recc. at least looking at one. Dave..
-
Here is a mechanics take on Mercedes. It starts off with a $938 bill for and oil and fuel filter change and continues with the cost of over engineering! He also has another video on the economics of luxury cars and why they cost so much to maintain.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XV9rJwEOCus (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XV9rJwEOCus)
-
mercs from 1986 until 1991 are the last proper cars ever made!!! unbreakable... absolutely bullet proof reliable, modern enough for comfort, old-school enough to be fixable..
-
Ever wonder why Mercedes with that superb German engineering has only a 4 year Warranty on drivetrain and Kia or Hyundai have 10 years?
-
Ever wonder why Mercedes with that superb German engineering has only a 4 year Warranty on drivetrain and Kia or Hyundai have 10 years?
Ever wonder why the resale value is so low?
-
Ever wonder why Mercedes with that superb German engineering has only a 4 year Warranty on drivetrain and Kia or Hyundai have 10 years?
Yah, it's called Marketing.
As in trying Real hard to get traction for a Market Share with any gimmick which will fly..They are going after the Japanese market posture; and the japanesehave a pretty good hold on that, although American cars have come on strong. It's a crowded zone, for sure.
Some of the Japanese Auto makers were trying to take a slice from the German Market share, r at least from that part of the share where Yuppies, Label chasers and non-enthusists were stationed. Those were the target, because no German carophobe would switch from a MBZ or BMW to an Acura, Leexus or Infinity.. but just when the Japanese were starting to make small inroads on low end BMWs with the Infinity, out of nowhere comes AUDI and knocks the Japanese contingent out on their keester...
AUDI makes some BadAss cars... They do well in the 24hrs at Le Mans.
Mercedes and BMW are racing, too. :cool: :thumb:
Lexus and Infinity, Kia and Hyundai..? Not so much.. :lipsrsealed:
And there's some more bad news for Japan and Korea....Jaguar has some very nice cars for the first time in decades and Maserati and Alfas are looking to get their Market share with some nice cars of their own..
Kia and Hyundai..? Yeah, good luck with that notion.. They can't compete in the High End of the spectrum, populated as it is by long established European brands.
They'd better stick to the Medium-low end of the market with Price Leaders, and they had better do it fast and look out for the Indian assault on that end of the spectrum - soon to be followed by China and their version of the Hoonday
Next thing you know, KIA and Hyundai will offer a 15 year warranty :boozing:
---
-
I generally loathe what Toyota has to offer these days, but you may want to check out the Highlander. It might just meet all of your needs, particularly ease of entry. Anecdotally, one of these saved the life of my sister, mother, and niece in a head-on collision with an F350. The crumple zone did its job, and no major injuries to anyone in the Toyota.
-
Those Chevy, Ford, Honda and Toyota crossovers are pretty nice cars, I didn't know they had three rows of seats.
-
Yah, it's called Marketing.
As in trying Real hard to get traction for a Market Share with any gimmick which will fly..They are going after the Japanese market posture; and the japanesehave a pretty good hold on that, although American cars have come on strong. It's a crowded zone, for sure.
Some of the Japanese Auto makers were trying to take a slice from the German Market share, r at least from that part of the share where Yuppies, Label chasers and non-enthusists were stationed. Those were the target, because no German carophobe would switch from a MBZ or BMW to an Acura, Leexus or Infinity.. but just when the Japanese were starting to make small inroads on low end BMWs with the Infinity, out of nowhere comes AUDI and knocks the Japanese contingent out on their keester...
AUDI makes some BadAss cars... They do well in the 24hrs at Le Mans.
Mercedes and BMW are racing, too. :cool: :thumb:
Lexus and Infinity, Kia and Hyundai..? Not so much.. :lipsrsealed:
And there's some more bad news for Japan and Korea....Jaguar has some very nice cars for the first time in decades and Maserati and Alfas are looking to get their Market share with some nice cars of their own..
Kia and Hyundai..? Yeah, good luck with that notion.. They can't compete in the High End of the spectrum, populated as it is by long established European brands.
They'd better stick to the Medium-low end of the market with Price Leaders, and they had better do it fast and look out for the Indian assault on that end of the spectrum - soon to be followed by China and their version of the Hoonday
Next thing you know, KIA and Hyundai will offer a 15 year warranty :boozing:
---
The OP expressed interest in MB due to the outdated notion that they are long lived and reliable. Until the mid 90's this was true. They have since moved on to capitalize on that reputation while entering the technology/horsepower race with the other two. Lexus has since replaced MB in the role of conservative luxury. Boring maybe, but immensely durable and long lived. Think N/A 300D from the mid nineties. These and their ancestors used to roam the streets of Bayern as taxis until they had accumulated enough miles to be sold to third world countries where they soldier on along with Peugeot 504s.
People who look for those qualities are not interested in Racing pedigree.
-
Yep, racing has nothing to do with the consumermarket.
Everyone I know with Bimmers (not Beemers, those are m/c's)
Have them in the shop all the time.
OTOH a friend's son is a Lexus wrench, they got in a 90s Lexus tht was down on power. After looking it over the engine was shot at about 300k miles. The dealer recommended a new ca. The owner asked about a new engine. The car was perfect in every way so they rebuilt the engine.
Happy customers.
-
Yah, it's called Marketing.
As in trying Real hard to get traction for a Market Share with any gimmick which will fly.
---
I`m not thinking a 10 year warranty is a gimmick, but surely it is marketing and with confidence in the reliability of what they build. Confidence seems to be lacking from the German manufacturers who would lose there Asses with a 10 year warranty. Most people do the German car dream only once because it turns into a nightmare.
-
. . . because no German carophobe would switch from a MBZ or BMW to an Acura, Leexus or Infinity..
Carophobe? Someone with an unreasoning fear of cars?
Did you mean carophile?
-
You may want to consider safety: SUV's have a much higher rollover rates than any other vehicles, especially the Chevy Tahoe and Suburbans. Loss of control due to hydroplaning seems to be a big issue with these.
Minivans are a lot safer, better gas mileage, plenty of room for families with the Chrysler Grand Caravan being tops in it's class.
-
Minivans are a lot safer, better gas mileage, plenty of room for families.
I can pack a whole rally in a Honda Odyssey and still get 25 MPG!
-
The last great Mercedes the 240 D.
Dean
-
The last great Mercedes the 240 D.
Dean
I would include the W123 300D/CD/TD in there as well.
-
You may want to consider safety: SUV's have a much higher rollover rates than any other vehicles, especially the Chevy Tahoe and Suburbans. Loss of control due to hydroplaning seems to be a big issue with these.
I'll give you the increased rollover rates. They're higher off the ground, after all. However, I think some of the smaller SUVs like Explorer and Jeep beat the Tahoe/Suburban/Yukon for rolling over when hit from the side. My mom suffered a 50mph T-bone in her 2008 Suburban a couple years ago. Yes, the Suburban rolled. Yes, they had to cut the roof to get her out. No, neither she nor her passenger had a scratch. I credit the Suburban for that. They're built like, er, TRUCKS! And, the newer ones have lots of airbags.
(https://rocker59.smugmug.com/Cars/Sub-Wreck/i-8RT3g6B/0/M/sub19-M.jpg)
I won't give you the hydroplaning. I've never heard that assertion. Something like that is going to be very tire dependent, anyway. My Suburban has 265,000 miles on the clock and it cuts through standing water like a battleship. I have kept good BF Goodrich and Cooper tires on it. Currently Cooper Discoverer AT3. They're awesome in rain/snow/mud. Previously, it had BF Goodrich Long Trail T/A tires that were super-good.
Last week, I drove the Suburban around 2,000 miles. That included 500 miles with a 6,000-lbs horse trailer. 1500 miles of highway back and forth to New Mexico. And, while in New Mexico, nearly 100 miles of unpaved mountain roads, some of which required high clearance and four wheel drive.
(https://rocker59.smugmug.com/Animals/2011-September-3-5-Labor-Day/i-DzmhGwr/0/M/new%20Featherlite%202-M.jpg)
No minivan can compete with that.
-
I would include the W123 300D/CD/TD in there as well.
The om617 turbo was the most durable in the U.S. Market. I think the 616's lived a hard life trying to keep up with V8's
-
Rocker , I hate to tell you this , but trucks aren't all that safe compared to minivans and passenger cars that have become one large crumple zone . In a crash , vehicles built on truck chassis tend to just stop suddenly , where passenger cars absorb the energy before coming to a complete stop . New SUVs are probably safer than the older ones , but I will bet that minivans are still the safest vehicle built .
Dusty
-
Rocker , I hate to tell you this , but trucks aren't all that safe compared to minivans and passenger cars that have become one large crumple zone . In a crash , vehicles built on truck chassis tend to just stop suddenly , where passenger cars absorb the energy before coming to a complete stop . New SUVs are probably safer than the older ones , but I will bet that minivans are still the safest vehicle built .
Dusty
Safety is well down my list, but a modern Suburban is VERY safe.
Capability is tops for me, and no minivan can cut it for the tasks I need a vehicle to perform.
I'm not going to compromise capability for a few mpg and a few points on some Consumer Reports test.
Give me a V8 4WD minivan with ground clearance and some towing capacity, then maybe I'll take another look.
But probably not...
-
Safety is well down my list, but a modern Suburban is VERY safe.
Capability is tops for me, and no minivan can cut it for the tasks I need a vehicle to perform.
I'm not going to compromise capability for a few mpg and a few points on some Consumer Reports test.
Give me a V8 4WD minivan with ground clearance and some towing capacity, then maybe I'll take another look.
But probably not...
You have a specific need for a large vehicle , and yes , that old Suburban is the right tool for the job . No argument on that point , but most folks don't pull a horse trailer , for passenger hauling purposes , hard to beat a minivan , that's all I'm saying . Kind of like the difference between a luxo tourer MC and a sport tourer :bike-037:
Dusty
-
Compromise?
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/6/63/2015_Volvo_XC90_Front.jpg)
-
Safety is well down my list, but a modern Suburban is VERY safe.
Capability is tops for me, and no minivan can cut it for the tasks I need a vehicle to perform.
I'm not going to compromise capability for a few mpg and a few points on some Consumer Reports test.
Give me a V8 4WD minivan with ground clearance and some towing capacity, then maybe I'll take another look.
But probably not...
A Suburban properly equipped is a formidable vehicle. Although it has a higher risk of rollover than a crossover,it can adsorb more battle damage .This why so many like full size trucks....
-
Compromise?
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/6/63/2015_Volvo_XC90_Front.jpg)
I had a Volvo once. Loved to drive it. Kept it about 8 years. HOWEVER, every year something weird would go wrong and cost me about $1,500. So, I'm hesitant to buy another one.
-
That Volvo is getting great reviews.
http://www.cnet.com/videos/on-the-road-2016-volvo-xc90/
https://www.google.com/webhp?hl=en&tab=mw#hl=en&q=volvo+xc90+review+cnet
Dean
-
I had a Volvo once. Loved to drive it. Kept it about 8 years. HOWEVER, every year something weird would go wrong and cost me about $1,500. So, I'm hesitant to buy another one.
We had an early Dodge Caravan that was like that. Every summer the air conditioning would go out. But, it would only cost about $200 each time.
-
7. Oh my! May patients be your wife& your greatest Vertue! Good luck and god speed!
-
If I was looking for a used SUV I'd look for a Toyota Land Cruiser.
Dean
-
I think Mercedes-Benz has jumped the shark. They used to make elegant, durable cars. When I was a kid, their cars had clean, beautiful styling: the 230SL, the 230SE sedan, and especially the 230 etc. coupes and convertibles, which were among the most beautiful cars ever made. Even during the 90s, after their sedans had become frumpy-looking, the 300SL and 500SL had elegant, clean, graceful lines.
Now, with the exception of the Gelandewagen, Mercedes-Benzes look like they were designed for the tastes of Middle Eastern potentates and drug traffickers: flashy, garish, with no grace at all. Aesthetically they're the automotive equivalent of a gold medallion on a chain, and their greatest attraction seems to be as a symbol of conspicuous consumption. At the same time, their reliability and durability have gone down the drain.
The conclusion has to be that Daimler-Benz sees their biggest market in nouveau-riche Asians, South American drug dealers, Arab princes, and status-whoring parvenus in general. Those people don't care about durability: they don't want to keep a car for more than a couple of years before buying the latest and flashiest. So why bother with quality?
-
...status-whoring parvenus...
Well that's a keeper of a phrase. :boozing:
-
I agree a mini van is the right tool for this job. But momma don't want no stinkin minivan, and if momma ain't happy, daddy be lonely. :wink: We are now looking at theses two vehicles.
http://www.jungevolvo.com/used/Volvo/2014-Volvo-XC90-696a17c80a0a00de11a3407a77a1af61.htm
2014 Volvo XC-90
http://www.jungemazda.com/used-inventory/index.htm
Mazda CX-9
We are also considering the Dodge Durango Citadel, and other 7 passenger vehicles. My choice was:
http://www.gozimmerman.com/certified/Ford/2013-Ford-Shelby+GT500-fbee6bda0a0e0ae70665653514de51f0.htm
Lorraine said no. No room for grand babies. She didn't believe me that the grand babies would rather ride in this than any of the other vehicles we looked at. :evil:
-
Mazda, hands down (does it have AWD and 3 rows of seats?)
Back to the Mercedes rant (thanks for that Matt). I can remember when status was someone that bought a new Mercedes and kept it 10+ years, kept it maintained with those 100k miles badges on it. It showed class, luxury, expense but value. For some reason a well used Mercedes was just a little classier than a new one just because it demonstrated durability. It also stamped some class & individuality on it's owner.
I remember when BTL was "built to last"- not "built to lease".
-
..... She didn't believe me that the grand babies would rather ride in this than any of the other vehicles we looked at. :evil:
ROFL
-
http://www.jungevolvo.com/used/Volvo/2014-Volvo-XC90-696a17c80a0a00de11a3407a77a1af61.htm
2014 Volvo XC-90
We put 85k on a 2002 V70XC (sold it when we moved to Tokyo) and currently have 65k on a 2010 XC70. First one was flawless - not one trip to the dealer in five years, only fluids and filters in my garage (and tires and brakes). Current one eats batteries, fourth one in five years just last week - Volvo moved the battery back under the hood for this generation and the heat (Houston) kills them. Also had the a/c compressor go out, 100 miles outside of the warranty. Dealer good-willed it for $100. Nothing else except fluid and filters in my garage. We'd buy another Volvo.
The one you linked has the 3.2 non-turbo. Although rated at 240hp, the non-turbo is a dog - remember that it's pushing around 5000lbs of truck. We test drove the 3.2 and the 3.0 turbo and the T6 is much more responsive with 281hp. Definitely test drive it (hard) to see if will move like you want it to. Fit and finish is great, seats are still great, sound system is just OK (and we upgraded). Rear seats should have built in booster seats (incredibly convenient). View from the driver's seat will be good, usual Volvo safety.
HTH,
Tom
-
I have a volvo v70, seats are great. I have it now for 8 years, and it has 230K miles. Drives like 8 years ago. It's 13 years old and still has original battery, only thing outside normal maintenance was a broken fuel pump. not to bad with all miles. And maintenance was just oil/filters and a belt each 100k. It wasn't cheap but in the end is a low mile price. Running with diesel D5 engine.
-
I think that some of the MBZ naysayers on here are clueless douchebaggery peddlers
Again, what You may think regarding the MBZ marque means jack-shit,
UNLESS you have spent at least 3 years behind the wheel of a MBZ sedan as a Daily Driver.
Other than that, you are as qualified to speak on the MBZ marque as you are to opine on which tampon fits you best, which considering some of the butt-hurt, diarreah verbosity with this crowd, may be appropriate for some of you after all.
Now that this qualifier is out of the way, and hopefully the static chaff of the Clue-Impaired is mitigated; I will present my own bonafides regarding MBZs, by posting Facts on my current daily driver with a recent pic, and general maintenance info on same.
This is my 1999 SL500.
(http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e383/blndyhb/IMG_3352_zpsfc1b25c0.jpg) (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/blndyhb/media/IMG_3352_zpsfc1b25c0.jpg.html)
We got it in 2003, and since then have logged on close to 200K Miles. In that time I replaced one CPS ( $ 28), Two Front Shock Tower Mounting dampers ( $45 ea. ), Two Oxygen sensors ( $120 for both), OEM Radiator -installed ( $500 ), Front Brakes - New OEM Disks and calipers - installed $650 ). Not bad for a car which gives its driver arguably the best ratio of smiles per Miles.
Speaking of smiles; just for fun, I up-graded the stock Wheels and tire size ( 17" dia / 8.75 width ) to AMG specs. I went with a Staggered set of 18" dia, Deep Dish Wheels and tires < 245 -18/Front, 275 - 18 Rear >. (total cost - $1400 ).
I also design-built the Single Fin / Mercedes star emblem grill.
I made the part because I did not care at all for the OEM 7-piece multi-slats system and felt that the Single Fin is the better representative of the entire two-door SL / Roadster blood line, which dates back to the 1956 SL "Gull Wing".
FWIW, after the R129 line ended in 2002, MBZ went Back to Single Fin grills on their SLs...
Personally, I still prefer the design lines of the R129 line over the newer SLs. Which explains why I don't have a newer SL.
BTW, I'll close this note by stating that I'm not into MBZ as " Status" cars. I never have given a flying Shiite about "status" cars, or with brand names posing... When I ride my CX100, I wear a SPAR-X helmet, Not ARAI, Shoei, IKOn, G-Max or whatever- And So much for that.
And as for automobiles; what tickles my nut sack are those special cars which like to go fast, stop with authority and handle predictably when pushed hard and fast.
This is me, at 22, some 35+ years ago - with my Euro-Spec 1966 911S, which I bought by and for myself - I recall eating a lot of Top Ramen that year, saving up the money. Obviously NOT a Poser.
(http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e383/blndyhb/58fb0137-c440-419b-ad97-0eb639fc6c90_zpse4d63f98.jpg) (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/blndyhb/media/58fb0137-c440-419b-ad97-0eb639fc6c90_zpse4d63f98.jpg.html)
I got this Porsche because of its driving characteristics, and how, at the time, I felt that it was the closest one could get to two wheels performance in a 4-wheel car. And if I have to explain this notion any further, maybe the poser is YOU.
Have a good Mercedes Benz Day..
-
-
Mike,
How much time have you spent in Benzes NEWER THAN 1999 ??
-
Ford Flex; tons of room and one of the best rides I've been in. MB, meh. Wouldn't get a new one. TrueDelta.com is full of data points from actual owners. More data than some tales off a motorcycle forum.
Mazda CX-9 can carry more than a Flex IF YOU DON'T have people in the second row, the Flex can't push it's seats forward to make room and in the Mazda you can.
Subaru made a three row SUV (mileage was not good and it did not sell well) for about five years. No longer available but if you are keen on a Subby that model is available.
Chrysler products (I've owned two and my experience matches the rumors out there) are weak in the electrical gizmos. I won't buy another. Same with VW. Electrical bits that should last don't (e.g. starters, windows etc.).
I traded in a Ford Edge to get a F150 (for towing purposes) and while it does not meet your third row requirement it was very roomy and the best car I've ever owned. Ford Explorer is pretty much a larger Edge, but if you ever need to rent a U-Haul it could be very problematic. Oddly enough, I prefer the F-150 to the Explorer; but if the Flex could tow more that would have been the car I would have got.
-
I don't know if this helps with the OP's original question, but I've not had good experience with late model Volvo or Audi.
I own a 2008 E300. It's been a fairly reliable car, with no large repairs. Service is expensive but luckily infrequent enough so as not to make me broke.
Previous to the MB, I owned a 2005 Volvo XC90. POS, is all I can say. Never ending trouble with that vehicle, poor dealership, total lack of manufacturer support. Never again. The last straw was a whining noise coming from the left rear end, proportional to the speed of the vehicle, with 100,000 km (60,000 miles) on the clock. Dealer diagnosed it to be bad transfer case and it cost me $3000 to replace. Didn't fix the noise and I was pissed! Took the vehicle to a mechanic who diagnosed the problem in 5 minutes to a blown wheel bearing. $200 fix and I dumped the vehicle in trade for the MB.
My MIL owns a 2013 Audi Q5 SUV. Takes excellent care of the vehicle. Just before the manufacturer's 1 year warrantee was to run out, she bought an extended warrantee. One month ago, I was driving the side streets when suddenly a bang came from the back end, followed by very expensive noises. Luckily it was near home, so I parked the vehicle and called the dealership. The rear differential gears had blown up, with only 50,000 km (30,000 miles) on the car. The extended warrantee paid the $5000 bill for the replacement. I cannot believe a vehicle of this prestige can perform this poorly. I'll never buy an Audi.
-
All comments help me with this decision. I realize that every make has its rolling turds occasionally, I'm looking to get a bead on overall quality and durability on the models. Tell me your good, bad, and fugly experiences with these vehicles.
-
I got a new minivan last week.
(http://i51.photobucket.com/albums/f380/rmaund/2014%20Promaster/20150910_174227.jpeg) (http://s51.photobucket.com/user/rmaund/media/2014%20Promaster/20150910_174227.jpeg.html)
For third row seating I put a couple sofas in the back.
And like my old Guzzi it uses Brembo disk brakes on all wheels! Seriously, with the traction control, this thing will stand on its nose!
-
I got a new minivan last week.
(http://i51.photobucket.com/albums/f380/rmaund/2014%20Promaster/20150910_174227.jpeg) (http://s51.photobucket.com/user/rmaund/media/2014%20Promaster/20150910_174227.jpeg.html)
For third row seating I put a couple sofas in the back.
And like my old Guzzi it uses Brembo disk brakes on all wheels! Seriously, with the traction control, this thing will stand on its nose!
:laugh: :laugh: :laugh:
So 'Truck , is that manly enough for our sweet girl ? :grin:
Dusty
-
You guys keep suggesting mini vans, you trying to get me hurt??? :wink: :laugh:
-
You guys keep suggesting mini vans, you trying to get me hurt??? :wink: :laugh:
Most practical machine going. 20 years driving them....I don't even have kids! I don't have back aches anymore, I haul around much more.....I have the windows tinted so people don't know it's me! :wink:
-
My mom replaced her wrecked 2008 Suburban with a 2010 GMC Yukon. The short wheelbase version. She loves it, and it's much easier to drive and park in town.
The 5.3 V8 is smooth and powerful. The transmission is nice. It's a solid, well-built wagon. Split, folding, removable 3rd row is nice.
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/d8/GMC_Yukon_Denali_1_--_03-22-2010.jpg)
(http://images.newcars.com/images/car-pictures/original/2010-GMC-Yukon-SUV-SLE-4x2-Exterior.png)
-
You guys keep suggesting mini vans, you trying to get me hurt??? :wink: :laugh:
Nope , trying to keep the grandkids from GETTING hurt .
Dusty
-
I'm always pleasantly amused with all the automobile safety concerns from motorcyclists on motorcycle forums.
Ironic !!!
-
I'm always pleasantly amused with all the automobile safety concerns from motorcyclists on motorcycle forums.
Ironic !!!
Different parameters , we are talking grand babies here . While I don't want any of my MC buddies to crash and be harmed , well , we are adults making informed decisions re risk . The grand babies don't get that choice .
Dusty
-
From my experience, kids absorb and recovery better and easier from the same magnitude of impact than adults. :cool: I watch my grandkiddies at rough and tumble play and I ache and hurt just from watching!!! :tongue:
-
From my experience, kids absorb and recovery better and easier from the same magnitude of impact than adults. :cool: I watch my grandkiddies at rough and tumble play and I ache and hurt just from watching!!! :tongue:
:laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:
All true , but they don't fare so well in a car crash . Besides , we need a new generation of campers , and I REALLY want to meet these grand babies some day , figure growing up around you they will be , well ... interesting :grin:
Dusty
-
:laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:
All true , but they don't fare so well in a car crash . Besides , we need a new generation of campers , and I REALLY want to meet these grand babies some day , figure growing up around you they will be , well ... interesting :grin:
Dusty
Meek, mild. Melvin Milquetoast they will be I'm sure. :evil: :rolleyes:
-
I think that some of the MBZ naysayers on here are clueless douchebaggery peddlers
Again, what You may think regarding the MBZ marque means jack-shit,
UNLESS you have spent at least 3 years behind the wheel of a MBZ sedan as a Daily Driver.
Other than that, you are as qualified to speak on the MBZ marque as you are to opine on which tampon fits you best, which considering some of the butt-hurt, diarreah verbosity with this crowd, may be appropriate for some of you after all.
Now that this qualifier is out of the way, and hopefully the static chaff of the Clue-Impaired is mitigated; I will present my own bonafides regarding MBZs, by posting Facts on my current daily driver with a recent pic, and general maintenance info on same.
This is my 1999 SL500.
(http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e383/blndyhb/IMG_3352_zpsfc1b25c0.jpg) (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/blndyhb/media/IMG_3352_zpsfc1b25c0.jpg.html)
We got it in 2003, and since then have logged on close to 200K Miles. In that time I replaced one CPS ( $ 28), Two Front Shock Tower Mounting dampers ( $45 ea. ), Two Oxygen sensors ( $120 for both), OEM Radiator -installed ( $500 ), Front Brakes - New OEM Disks and calipers - installed $650 ). Not bad for a car which gives its driver arguably the best ratio of smiles per Miles.
Speaking of smiles; just for fun, I up-graded the stock Wheels and tire size ( 17" dia / 8.75 width ) to AMG specs. I went with a Staggered set of 18" dia, Deep Dish Wheels and tires < 245 -18/Front, 275 - 18 Rear >. (total cost - $1400 ).
I also design-built the Single Fin / Mercedes star emblem grill.
I made the part because I did not care at all for the OEM 7-piece multi-slats system and felt that the Single Fin is the better representative of the entire two-door SL / Roadster blood line, which dates back to the 1956 SL "Gull Wing".
FWIW, after the R129 line ended in 2002, MBZ went Back to Single Fin grills on their SLs...
Personally, I still prefer the design lines of the R129 line over the newer SLs. Which explains why I don't have a newer SL.
BTW, I'll close this note by stating that I'm not into MBZ as " Status" cars. I never have given a flying Shiite about "status" cars, or with brand names posing... When I ride my CX100, I wear a SPAR-X helmet, Not ARAI, Shoei, IKOn, G-Max or whatever- And So much for that.
And as for automobiles; what tickles my nut sack are those special cars which like to go fast, stop with authority and handle predictably when pushed hard and fast.
This is me, at 22, some 35+ years ago - with my Euro-Spec 1966 911S, which I bought by and for myself - I recall eating a lot of Top Ramen that year, saving up the money. Obviously NOT a Poser.
(http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e383/blndyhb/58fb0137-c440-419b-ad97-0eb639fc6c90_zpse4d63f98.jpg) (http://s43.photobucket.com/user/blndyhb/media/58fb0137-c440-419b-ad97-0eb639fc6c90_zpse4d63f98.jpg.html)
I got this Porsche because of its driving characteristics, and how, at the time, I felt that it was the closest one could get to two wheels performance in a 4-wheel car. And if I have to explain this notion any further, maybe the poser is YOU.
Have a good Mercedes Benz Day..
-
Douchebaggery!?!
Empty barrels are loudest...
Your SL Debuted in 89. You haven't experienced the deliberate cheapening of the Marque.
OP:
It looks like the xc90 has some pretty nice refinements and build quality
(http://www.gunaxin.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/2016-Volvo-XC90-Interior-4.jpg)
(http://bergencountyvolvo.com/KundertVolvoXC90/images_interior/volvo-xc90-interior-g.jpg)
-
(http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv17/Rander/jdp_zpszpuhipdv.jpg) (http://s665.photobucket.com/user/Rander/media/jdp_zpszpuhipdv.jpg.html)
(http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv17/Rander/xc90_zpszqhvxkyd.jpg) (http://s665.photobucket.com/user/Rander/media/xc90_zpszqhvxkyd.jpg.html)
:popcorn:
-
(http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv17/Rander/jdp_zpszpuhipdv.jpg) (http://s665.photobucket.com/user/Rander/media/jdp_zpszpuhipdv.jpg.html)
:popcorn:
http://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2010/03/the-truth-about-jd-powers-2010-vehicle-dependability-survey/
-
http://www.jdpower.com/cars/about
About J.D. Power Ratings
Power Circle Ratings from J.D. Power are one of the only sources of consumer ratings based on independent and unbiased feedback from a representative sample of verified product and service owners.
To calculate Power Circle Ratings, J.D. Power begins with the syndicated study index scores or a specific standard of measurement, which can be found in the associated press release. An example of an index score is found in the J.D. Power U.S. Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study, where vehicles are ranked according to overall index scores based upon weighted responses to several study factors. An example of a specific standard of measurement is found in the J.D. Power Initial Quality Study, where vehicles are ranked according to reported Problems Per 100 vehicles (PP100).
Using these measurements, Power Circle Ratings are calculated based on the range between the company or model with the highest score and the company or model with the lowest score. J.D. Power generates a Power Circle Rating of five, four, three, or two, as outlined below:
Among the best
5 Power Circles
The highest-ranking company or brand in each segment receives five Power Circles*. In highly competitive segments with many companies or brands, multiple companies or models scoring in the top 10 percent of the range from the highest score can also receive five Power Circles, indicating that consumers rate them "among the best" of all companies or models in the survey. However, only the highest-ranking company in each segment receives a J.D. Power award.
Better than most
4 Power Circles
Companies or models scoring 10 percent of the range above the industry or the segment but below the scores for 5 Power Circles receive a rating of 4 Power Circles*, indicating that consumers rate them "better than most" among companies or models in the survey.
About average
3 Power Circles
Companies or models scoring between 10 percent of the range above the industry or the segment and 20 percent below the industry or the segment receive a rating of 3 Power Circles*, indicating that consumers rate them "about average" among all companies or models in the survey.
The rest
2 Power Circles
Companies or models scoring 20 percent of the range below the industry or the segment receive a rating of 2 Power Circles*, indicating that consumers rate them lower than other companies or models in the survey. J.D. Power does not publish a rating lower than two Power Circles.
-
(http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv17/Rander/jdp_zpszpuhipdv.jpg) (http://s665.photobucket.com/user/Rander/media/jdp_zpszpuhipdv.jpg.html)
(http://i665.photobucket.com/albums/vv17/Rander/xc90_zpszqhvxkyd.jpg) (http://s665.photobucket.com/user/Rander/media/xc90_zpszqhvxkyd.jpg.html)
:popcorn:
I was referring to the redesigned 2016 xc90
-
I was referring to the redesigned 2016 xc90
Kewl, I was referring to ...
...We are now looking at these...
http://www.jungevolvo.com/used/Volvo/2014-Volvo-XC90-696a17c80a0a00de11a3407a77a1af61.htm
2014 Volvo XC-90...
I think a highlander fits all the OP criteria, consider just buying it new. A deal compared to the $80k Land Cruiser. It's fun to spend your money. :laugh:
-
Just piling on about German cars. My neighbor has a couple of Beemers. He likes working on them like some here like to play with their Guzzis; he has one car that he uses for track days. Anyway, his daily driver was overheating. He showed me the ELECTRIC water pump he pulled. He wouldn't tell me what the replacement costs. An Electronically controlled electric water pump with an attached aluminum thermostat housing? Why?
THIS ! EXACTLY !
I gave my local independent mechanic a rash this week over this very item. Electric water pump & thermo = an $1,100 bill.
The wife's car is an '07 5 series. Been in multiple times for the electronic dip-stick, too. Often gives erroneous readings. You can't even check the oil. He's a fair guy, but his comment was "they truly don't build them like they used to."
My little '04 wagon is nearing 150k miles, and has been acceptable. The cooling system is the Achilles part on this one. A few expansion tanks, radiator, hoses & thermostats.
I would personally like a mid-90's Benz- something out of the era when they were lauded for anvil reliability. A friend with a late 90's E55AMG has put near 200k on his with the only issues being "performance awards" by the California Highway Patrol. Less gee-whiz features from a better vanished time!
-
well Drums- all that crap just makes me feel good having a Camaro for a go-fast and an Accord for transportation. And the Camaro is nothing to brag about with the distributor next to the water pump, but it's still not German crazy. And my diesel is a Duramax (and the water pump is $1k job).
-
For value the Kia and Hyundai stand out in the JD Power study.
-
I had been considering a slightly used 2014 Subaru Outback 3.6R with low miles and all the bells and whistles but at $35,000 including tax I stopped myself. It just seems like a lot of money for a Subaru.
-
Thank you to everyone for all the truly informative information. :bow: On our trip back from the Mo-Kan we swept the Des Moine area dealers. Please understand I am still trying to get my bride to commit to a class of vehicle. We looked at Highlanders, Sequoias, Armadas, Durganos, Tiguans, MDX, Tahoes/Yukons, Expeditions, and Explorers. She will not commit to the Crossover/Small or normal SUV class size. The one she really liked was a 2016 Pearl White Escalade. I got her to look at the price tag $86,000, she said it made the Armada Premium Reserve at $56,000 look like a bargain. I have bought very nice homes for that price difference!! :shocked: I think she is leaning toward the Durango Citadel, but my worry is dependability. Found a 14 with 23,000 miles which I think I can get for 25-28,000. I'm leaning towards the Armada Premium Reserve, but I can only get it new, not used. Yukon/Tahoe are in the running. We will be trudging out again tomorrow to view more vehicles. I'm torn between used and new, leasing is not an option. The difference between new and a 1-2 year old vehicle with 15-25,000 miles ain't really all that large. Insurance wise there is no difference.
-
Here's my take.
The JD powers and most of the CR reports are faulted by the surveying methods or parameters.
That said, I wouldn't be surprised if trends weren't generally true.
Thing is, what are the actual trends.
Does a Chrysler break more often than a BMW?
And when/if it does, well does it cost more or less to fix it?
I suspect stupid problems and complaints with say the Bluetooth or voice commands may drop a brand on the list. But should that shit be treated the same as powertrain failures?
We've got a Jeep GC (2012), same platform as the Durango.
We love it. It's been tough and capable, and reliable.
I suspect if it does break by 100k miles it will cost less to fix than our Mini Cooper did at that point.
Me, I'll buy new and buy whatever the Frick that blows my hair back and not worry about it. They all last much longer than their predecessors, well at least the chassis and drivetrain. The ancillary crap, well, let's say I prefer to take it easy on that stuff.
I'm gonna buy a second Jeep soon. Cause it's what I want and cause this one has been perfect where it is important.
-
Thanks Kev for the input. I tend to buy and hold. My last new truck was a 1999 F-250 Super Duty, now has 205,000 miles on it. Just pumped $2,000 into her to get her back up to snuff. My newest and most recent purchase was a 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe GLE, now has 130,000 miles on it. Going into the shop tomorrow for about $2,000 of maintenance, (R/R timing belt, water pump, trans, transfer case, brake fluids, spark plugs, D/R interior lights and check engine light relating to faulty data from the fuel level sensor) I love cars, but hating buying them almost as much as I hate paying for them. With our annual mileages, leasing is not an option at all either.
-
I've owned 50+ cars since I started driving and the main difference I've found in them is the driving experience and satisfaction of ownership. I don't think I've ever really owned a lemon, nor a car that was uncharacteristicall y costly to maintain. I mean I have owned some some really funky cars, like a Fiat 850 that was so rusted out that I had to pick up some sheet metal from an HVAC contractor to replace the floorboard as the seat had nothing to attach to or a Saab Monte Carlo that I had to pack the transmission in a plastic garbage can and send on a bus to Atlanta to get rebuilt. My Porsche 928S4, which I owned for 6 years was expensive to maintain, but no more than I budgeted for and certainly cheaper than buying a new car. For the most part, most of my purchases have fallen within expectations. I do prefer the driving experience of German cars. I've owned Audi, BMW, Porsche, and several VW's including one of the original GTI's which was very satisfying to own.
I just recently bought my first Mercedes, a GLK350 4matic. I could have bought a year old Suburu Forester for what I paid for the 4 year old Merc. I expect the Merc to be more expensive to own, but it is so much more car than the Subie. I am will to pay the price of admission. I still drive because I enjoy it.
-
I had been considering a slightly used 2014 Subaru Outback 3.6R with low miles and all the bells and whistles but at $35,000 including tax I stopped myself. It just seems like a lot of money for a Subaru.
From my experience (two 3.6R's), you will not be disappointed. These are the best all round vehicles we have ever owned, and though they don't have the cachet of the German stuff, they make up for it in reliability and "do anything" attitude. And the newest have enough safety and connectivity functionality to satisfy anyone (actually too much for me).
-
From my experience (two 3.6R's), you will not be disappointed. These are the best all round vehicles we have ever owned, and though they don't have the cachet of the German stuff, they make up for it in reliability and "do anything" attitude. And the newest have enough safety and connectivity functionality to satisfy anyone (actually too much for me).
Don, I waited too long on that 2014 and it's gone. Going to look at a 2011 3.6R with 114,000 miles today and I know people say that isn't a lot of miles but it is an issue for me unless it is in great shape. Do you have the non-CVT transmission? The 2014 I drove had the eyesight,etc. functions which seemed annoying but I did some reading and that seems to be a worthwhile addition. My plan was to just keep this vehicle for a year or two until VW brings over the AllTrack but their new problems are of concern so the Subaru might be a long term car.
-
From what little I know, the Armada is to be avoided at all costs. The least reliable beast Nissan makes. For some reason they have had issues with it and have not been able to fix them (but my info is about three years old). truedelta.com can help except for the newest year where they don't have enough data points to show results.
I am shocked that $35,000 seems to be the "normal" for your average well appointed car. Nothing too fancy, but not a rental either. It's crazy.
-
speaking of German diesels, it looks like VW has stepped into it. They've bogguss-ed up the ECU diagnostics to hide huge EPA emissions violations.
Looks like criminal fraud. VW stock down 20%. I wonder what happens to cars on the road? I wonder if they've done the same to its Euro cars?
-
From what I read VW will have to de-tune the cars to make up the loss but I haven't read what it would do to the gas mileage on the diesel vehicles. Guessing it can't be good. Incredibly stupid move on their part.
-
From what I read VW will have to de-tune the cars to make up the loss but I haven't read what it would do to the gas mileage on the diesel vehicles. Guessing it can't be good. Incredibly stupid move on their part.
sounds like a HUGE class action lawsuit.
-
From what I read VW will have to de-tune the cars to make up the loss but I haven't read what it would do to the gas mileage on the diesel vehicles. Guessing it can't be good. Incredibly stupid move on their part.
Well, if they have to turn them down to meet emissions, then economy might go up. But, power would go down.
I'm thinking the power loss, if brought into EPA spec, is where the big pisser would be for those who are driving them.
-
Well, if they have to turn them down to meet emissions, then economy might go up. But, power would go down.
I'm thinking the power loss, if brought into EPA spec, is where the big pisser would be for those who are driving them.
"...early this month, Volkswagen executives finally made a startling admission: The diesels it sold in the United States used software deliberately designed to cheat on the tests.
The company was evidently concerned that actually meeting the federal emissions standards would degrade the power of the diesels, which it marketed as comparable in performance to gasoline engines. Meeting the standard would also undercut the fuel efficiency that is one of a diesel’s main selling points."
Nope, less power and less gas mileage.
-
WOW ! And I know two people that have purchased VW diesels in the last year .
Dusty
-
Nope, less power and less gas mileage.
What a mess!
-
I was kicking around getting a VW diesel when I got the Honda.
I just didn't want to risk the reliability and maintainability costs.
-
WOW ! And I know two people that have purchased VW diesels in the last year .
Dusty
I drove a 2010 Sportwagon TDI. I really liked it. I wouldn't like it so much with less power and poorer economy.
That would make a Prius V more attractive, if a person was looking for that sort of car.
I've resigned myself, though, to buying used gas guzzlers and paying the oil company rather than the car company !!! :grin:
-
I was waiting for VW to bring over the AllTrack which is a diesel(along with gas) version of the Subaru Outback. This news makes that car less attractive but will see.
Yes, I test rode a 2015 Sportwagon TDI and I liked it, just wanted AWD and I don't need a big vehicle to tow big stuff. Just a trailer with one bike.
-
Google VW HPFP. That should curb your TDI appetite real fast. I owned a 2012 VW Golf TDI loved the car but had it in the shop three times in 6 moths for different reasons.
If you want a German car without the associated cost but with outstanding reliability and AWD id suggest the Buick Regal. That's my daily driver and it's been flawless.
-
Here's my take.
The JD powers and most of the CR reports are faulted by the surveying methods or parameters.
I suspect stupid problems and complaints with say the Bluetooth or voice commands may drop a brand on the list. But should that shit be treated the same as powertrain failures?
No, but it does, you are exactly correct sir!
-
Another day of driving vehicles, another day without any real clues as to what Lorraine really wants. Today we drove the Toyota Highlander, (Impressive) Nissan Armada (Great ride, tech stale), and the Nissan Pathfinder (nice). The best ride of all the vehicles we have driven is the Armada. But no blind spot indicator. That drops it from the list. BSIS is mandatory for Lorraine due to her worsening neck problems. The Highlander was very well stocked with tech, and a good ride. We looked at the Limited Platinum. The Pathfinder as nice, but did not ride as well as the others. Lorraine really likes the Durango, http://www.jungemazda.com/used-inventory/index.htm?listingConfigId=auto-used&compositeType=&year=&make=Dodge&bodyStyle=&odometer=&internetPrice=&start=0&sort=&facetbrowse=true&searchLinkText=SEARCH&showFacetCounts=true&showRadius=false&showSubmit=true&showSelections=true but this Flex http://www.lynchfordchevrolet.com/used-Mt+Vernon-2014-Ford-Flex-Limited-2FMGK5D8XEBD08672 seems to be a better buy, and better vehicle. The Flex is better equipped, especially for the money being asked. The important question is at what price can they be bought. The search goes on Thanks again to all who have pitched in here with advice, opinions, and facts. It is all greatly appreciated.
-
2014 Dodge Durango RT 17,000 miles 5.7 Hemi fully loaded. Every option you can imagine. A true Chrysler executive car. Tow package, Technology package, Comfort package etc. Stickered for $52,000+, got it for much much less, with warrenty. Pics to follw, can't post them on my phone. Black on black on black. Imagine top Citadel package us the RT package.
-
I bought a Forester a few years ago, have 30K on it and have only had routine maintenance done on it. I thought about getting a Jeep, but they had just come out with a 9-speed gearbox and one of the reviews I read said that it is a complex vehicle. The repair records for the Jeeps haven't been confidence inspiring, but many people who have them really like 'em.
Interestingly, the Subie has a CVT tranny and now when I drive a vehicle with an auto that shifts between gears it seems clunky.
Rich A
-
This RT has the 8 speed. It has bumper to bumper for another 18,000 miles, and powertrain for another 83,000 miles. Shifts extremely smoothly.
-
This RT has the 8 speed. It has bumper to bumper for another 18,000 miles, and powertrain for another 83,000 miles. Shifts extremely smoothly.
It had better have 8 speeds and a massive warranty. I only paid $40,000 for my first house on 3 acres of land!
Lannis
-
Yep, and my parents paid $19k for a 2400sq ft three level home back in the 60's. LOL
Hope your wife likes the Dodge. I like mine (but it's a little bigger :) ).
Watch the service dept. The last two Dodge places I've been to have recommended unnecessary services on almost every visit. First clue was recommending changing the brake fluid when the truck was three months old. I thought that was just an error. Every visit after that they wanted to change brake fluid, power steering fluid, auto trans fluid and do an alignment.
-
2014 Dodge Durango RT 17,000 miles 5.7 Hemi fully loaded. Every option you can imagine. A true Chrysler executive car. Tow package, Technology package, Comfort package etc. Stickered for $52,000+, got it for much much less, with warrenty. Pics to follw, can't post them on my phone. Black on black on black. Imagine top Citadel package us the RT package.
That'll be a sweet ride!!!
-
Cool, enjoy. Very similar platform to our Jeep GC.
I bought a Forester a few years ago, have 30K on it and have only had routine maintenance done on it. I thought about getting a Jeep, but they had just come out with a 9-speed gearbox and one of the reviews I read said that it is a complex vehicle. The repair records for the Jeeps haven't been confidence inspiring, but many people who have them really like 'em.
Interestingly, the Subie has a CVT tranny and now when I drive a vehicle with an auto that shifts between gears it seems clunky.
Rich A
If I listened to reports on the internet I'd never by another Guzzi (or never have bought any Harleys) and I don't regret any of them.
The three Jeeps I've had were awesome, not perfect, but awesome.
I like my Subarus too.
-
It had better have 8 speeds and a massive warranty. I only paid $40,000 for my first house on 3 acres of land!
Lannis
I agree. It was a bitch to write out the check. Got it for 32,200, so not too bad I felt. But I still remember buying a house for less, much less. Lol
-
Don, I waited too long on that 2014 and it's gone. Going to look at a 2011 3.6R with 114,000 miles today and I know people say that isn't a lot of miles but it is an issue for me unless it is in great shape. Do you have the non-CVT transmission? The 2014 I drove had the eyesight,etc. functions which seemed annoying but I did some reading and that seems to be a worthwhile addition. My plan was to just keep this vehicle for a year or two until VW brings over the AllTrack but their new problems are of concern so the Subaru might be a long term car.
Cat, we just traded an '11 3.6 for a '16 3.6, and I'll have to say I liked the '11 better in some ways. It was simpler, did everything we need, and was stone
reliable. The '16 has the same basic feel, but there are so many electronic nannies with attendant beeps every time you turn around, that it can be annoying. One thing i really do like is the adaptive cruise control, though. The '16 has CVT and I have no issues with it, smooth and unobtrusive, and it
does get better gas mileage. Overall, the 3.6R is a lot of vehicle for the money, even though they are approaching $40K. We plan to keep it for a long time. As we get older, I think the nannies might be a lifesaver (literally).
-
The price for vehicles have gone up like everything in general but we're not on the gold standard anymore and we get paid more. The amount we pay for goods vs time involved to earn that money is less. :thumb: Of course we paid less because we were paid less. Remember $1.65 as minimum wage??? That was a raise for me. :tongue:
-
The price for vehicles have gone up like everything in general but we're not on the gold standard anymore and we get paid more. The amount we pay for goods vs time involved to earn that money is less. :thumb: Of course we paid less because we were paid less. Remember $1.65 as minimum wage??? That was a raise for me. :tongue:
Yeah , I remember $1.35 min wage , but gas was 2 bits a gallon around here , and having $5.00 meant a big date on Fri night :laugh:
Dusty
-
Yeah , I remember $1.35 min wage , but gas was 2 bits a gallon around here , and having $5.00 meant a big date on Fri night :laugh:
Dusty
My first date with my wife-to-be, a small cheese pizza was $.95, I sprung for a big extra $.20 for pepperoni and sausage. We bowled duckpins at the "Crestlanes" bowling alley for $1.50, then went to see "Billy Jack" at $.50 a ticket.
To top the big evening, we stopped at High's Ice Cream and got two double Swiss Chocolate Almond ice cream cones at $.20 each.
$4.00 and some, and I was making $1.65 an hour, so about 2.5 hours work of work for the date. Hasn't changed much today ....
Lannis
-
Finally home and post pics.
(http://i1153.photobucket.com/albums/p518/Stormtruck2/20150926_152055_zpstjfdoz7x.jpg) (http://s1153.photobucket.com/user/Stormtruck2/media/20150926_152055_zpstjfdoz7x.jpg.html)
(http://i1153.photobucket.com/albums/p518/Stormtruck2/20150926_152113_zps4tsylkcs.jpg) (http://s1153.photobucket.com/user/Stormtruck2/media/20150926_152113_zps4tsylkcs.jpg.html)
(http://i1153.photobucket.com/albums/p518/Stormtruck2/20150926_152148_zpscrhsu5xr.jpg) (http://s1153.photobucket.com/user/Stormtruck2/media/20150926_152148_zpscrhsu5xr.jpg.html)
(http://i1153.photobucket.com/albums/p518/Stormtruck2/20150926_152416_zpsgmpknyal.jpg) (http://s1153.photobucket.com/user/Stormtruck2/media/20150926_152416_zpsgmpknyal.jpg.html)
Drove to Wisconsin this weekend with it. Had six adults in it several times, all claimed to be comfortable. Six adults and luggage is out though. Seen 24-27 mpg on highway. We love this vehicle so far. :thumb:
-
:thumb:
-
I get that. We're really happy with it's brother, the WK2 Grand Cherokee. And let's face it, they're both Chrysler versions of an ML.
-
Great mileage (a buddy had an earlier iteration and it sucked gas just on principle it seemed, glad they improved). Enjoy!!
-
Great mileage (a buddy had an earlier iteration and it sucked gas just on principle it seemed, glad they improved). Enjoy!!
First and second generations were basically Dakotas with permanent toppers with 360's. Like Bigfoot, I have heard of 360's getting good fuel economy, but have never personally seen one. :laugh: Third generations are build on an auto chassis versus a truck chassis. More or less took the place of the Magnum. This one has variable displacement, which means under load all eight cylinders are feeding. When not under load, only four are feeding. So on level ground it runs as a four cylinder. Really does make a difference in fuel consumption. But when you step on the happy pedal, things happen, FAST. :grin: I'm looking forwad to a Durango with the Hellcat motor and driveline. :drool: :copcar: