My car died recently. All the electrical went out and had to be towed to the house. Like dead dead. No cranks, no interior lights or sounds. Big ass shiny (had just washed it and sprayed the tires) paperweight.

Mechanic came through yesterday. Saw the aux battery was dead. Both that battery and the main AGM batttery are brand new. I went back to the parts store and exchanged the aux battery. AGM battery is literally days old, but I was hoping both batteries were lemons. Only one was. The main battery is getting the proper voltage.

He ran some other test and saw there was inconsistent voltage from the the power distribution center (PDC), also called a TIPM.

No parts stores carry the PDC, so I called the Jeep. The sell if for $500. Of course, I checked online. Found a company that sells them and it's $360, including overnight shipping. Should be here shortly.

I'm going to try putting it in. Looks like an easy job, according to the video I got from the company I purchased from. Any tips or gotchas I need to be aware of?

It's gonna be cold af when I get off work and getting dark quickly. Hopefully this won't take more than 30 mins.

With all the said, I can see why a good mechanic costs good money. Seeing dude work on my car and get power to the interior when there was none...shit was like magic to me lol. Maybe this is light work for him, but I amazed and relieved.

Taking a car to the shop, you never get to see the work. You just give them the keys to your baby. They go into the abyss of the shop and hopefully bring it back in working order.

Also put a new battery in my wife's 4runner. May need to put a new ground cable in soon. Somehow, hers is cut. It's old, but way easier to deal. My batteries are under my passenger seat. Hard to get to even when everything is working. Imagine getting to them when the car is dead. Why are they under the seat. To keep away from the heat of the engine? Shit's weird to me.

Y'all buy those labels, I was born supreme

my old Traverse had the battery in the same spot. I was confused when I bought a replacement battery and dude walked over there lol

A few months back the battery died on my Elantra. I bought a replacement and no good. I had to drive to another store to get a different battery. They gave me a hard time at the second store saying the first one should have given me a refund instead of having this one swap it. They were really trying to make it seem like my car was the problem. They put the new battery in and all good since.

As I mentioned in a couple of posts, I got a check engine light on yesterday morning. I have the appointment with the dealership set up for the 5th of Jan. They said they're keeping the car 3 days!!

I went to a mechanic yesterday to have him take a look and make sure I really could keep driving the car until then. He plugged in the reader and said it was a seal in one of the lines. Finding which one would be $300 of labor. He did take off and put back on my gas cap. He said to make sure it's closed and that he didn't recommend the type I have on there. I had to replace the gas cap a month ago because it wouldn't pass inspection. I bought an aftermarket one as that's all they had. I might need to order an OEM one. He said that I should definitely be okay to keep driving it until the appointment. Obviously it makes sense to let the dealer figure it out as the car is under warranty.

Time to drive this puppy into a dealership and get a new car!!! jk lol

>my old Traverse had the battery in the same spot. I was
>confused when I bought a replacement battery and dude walked
>over there lol

I'm gonna have to find out why that's a thing with certain cars. I can see it leaving more room in the engine bay, but I'm noboby's mechanic so it just seems odd

>
>A few months back the battery died on my Elantra. I bought a
>replacement and no good. I had to drive to another store to
>get a different battery. They gave me a hard time at the
>second store saying the first one should have given me a
>refund instead of having this one swap it. They were really
>trying to make it seem like my car was the problem. They put
>the new battery in and all good since.

Glad the new battery is doing like it should.

>
>As I mentioned in a couple of posts, I got a check engine
>light on yesterday morning. I have the appointment with the
>dealership set up for the 5th of Jan. They said they're
>keeping the car 3 days!!
>
3 days!! Guess they're swamped. That's partly why I wanted to have someone come to the house. It would be tricky to not have my car more than a day.

>I went to a mechanic yesterday to have him take a look and
>make sure I really could keep driving the car until then. He
>plugged in the reader and said it was a seal in one of the
>lines. Finding which one would be $300 of labor. He did take
>off and put back on my gas cap. He said to make sure it's
>closed and that he didn't recommend the type I have on there.
>I had to replace the gas cap a month ago because it wouldn't
>pass inspection. I bought an aftermarket one as that's all
>they had. I might need to order an OEM one. He said that I
>should definitely be okay to keep driving it until the
>appointment. Obviously it makes sense to let the dealer figure
>it out as the car is under warranty.

yeah, definitely take advantage of that warranty. your guy at least let you know what's going on. hopefully the dealer will get you right soon.
>
>Time to drive this puppy into a dealership and get a new
>car!!! jk lol

haha. I had the same thoughts when mine died. Hopefully I can keep this thing rolling for a while though.

Y'all buy those labels, I was born supreme

NO lie.

I ain't really got any advice, but as someone who has worked on quite a few cars, I can say it is likely to take longer than 30 mins. I've never done ANYTHING that took so little time, other than changing a tire. Even swapping spark plugs, which is relatively simple if you have all the equipment / wrenches ready and nearby can take a bit if the plugs are old and take some wrenching, or the case is stuck on.

Good luck anyway, fam.

********************************

Get Out The Room!
http://getouttheroom.podomatic.com
@fakewilliamkatt

"You probably wouldn't worry about what people think of you if you could know how seldom they do!" - Olin Miller

you're probably right that it'll take more time. definitely wishful thinking on my part, especially since I've never done this lol.

the video made it look so simple and even the mechanic suggested I could do it myself. luckily, I don't need any special tools and have what they suggested as necessary.

thanks!

Y'all buy those labels, I was born supreme

At least in theory. In a performance vehicle, relocating the battery can help shift the weight balance around, or if the engine bay is all swole up with motor there's nowhere else for it to go. Now, for some vehicles, I think the designers and engineers were fighting with each other and tried to make things as difficult as possible for manufacturing and mechanics.

I remember working for Trak Auto and Autozone in my youth where we would install the battery for the customer. Those Dodge/Chrysler 'cloud' cars and anything on their LM platform where the battery was in the bumper? The customer was on his own...

<-- Dave Thomas knows what's up...
__________________________

Jay: Look here homie, any nigga can get a hit record. This here is about respect.
Game: Like Gladys Knight.
Jay: Aretha Franklin.
Game: Word, I like her too.
Jay: Nigga...

I think on Mythbusters they ran into that and were pissed.

https://youtu.be/MYLqn2ANmPM

guess I should be happy mine isn't as bad.

Y'all buy those labels, I was born supreme

I never really thought about the weight aspect. weight distribution makes sense, especially with lighter vehicles or cramped engine bays.

thanks for the explanation.

Y'all buy those labels, I was born supreme

I remember on my Traverse I had to remove a tire and panel under the wheel well to replace a headlamp bulb.

I was used to just popping the hood and removing the cap from the headlamp lol

The front bumper needs to be at least partially pulled to get to the bulbs on my 2013 Fusion. I dare say there are a lot of others (Altima and Malibu come to mind) that have to do similar crap just to get to the bulb. Such a PITA

<-- Dave Thomas knows what's up...
__________________________

Jay: Look here homie, any nigga can get a hit record. This here is about respect.
Game: Like Gladys Knight.
Jay: Aretha Franklin.
Game: Word, I like her too.
Jay: Nigga...

got the drivers side in after fiddling with it for what seemed like forever. had to pay someone to do the other side.

my hands are too big for those tiny slots and the angles are hard to get around.

not to mention, the HID lights are expensive af! I found a 'cheap' pair for $84. Most sides were over $100 for single bulbs.

Thinking about replacing the light fixtures on my wife's. they've yellowed. hoping it won't be difficult to switch them out.

Y'all buy those labels, I was born supreme

my MIL’s smart car needed w jump, had to google to find the battery under the passenger side carseat.

when we got back from jamaica my car wouldn’t respond to the fob. I was HOT. Had to use the key fob key and pop the handle to get to the key slot and then everything worked but WTF?

Cars just be doing shit for no reason sometimes.

****************
TBH the fact that you're even a mod here fits squarely within Jag's narrative of OK-sanctioned aggression, bullying, and toxicity. *shrug*

That way, of the car needs a jump, the cables or jump box can be hooked up there, and those leads connect to wherever the battery is.

The problem is, if you have cheap, thin gauge jumper cables or the battery is super low, you may not be sending enough power through the leads to work. Had that problem with a friend's XC90. She had some cables, but they weren't the greatest, so the starter would barely turn over. Found the battery in the cargo area. Dismantled half the carpet and covers, hooked up straight to the battery, and the engine started first try.

<-- Dave Thomas knows what's up...
__________________________

Jay: Look here homie, any nigga can get a hit record. This here is about respect.
Game: Like Gladys Knight.
Jay: Aretha Franklin.
Game: Word, I like her too.
Jay: Nigga...

if mine dies, I'd have to press the fob against the start button to it going.

Y'all buy those labels, I was born supreme

it was parked for a week outside at the airport and it rained all week.

I think if was asleep.. lol.

****************
TBH the fact that you're even a mod here fits squarely within Jag's narrative of OK-sanctioned aggression, bullying, and toxicity. *shrug*

Installed the power distribution center and nothing changed. Still won't start. Now I'm thinking it's a fuse block located at the positive battery terminal. This is probably out of my league.

I will say it felt good to install the PDC. Way easier than I thought. It wasn't 20 minutes, but only because if was cold and dark. So, roughly about 45 minutes.

Xmas is just all in the way. My normal shop closes tomorrow at noon. I could call the mobile guy out, but won't. Not that he'd drop by. it's gonna be cold af this for the rest of the week. At this point, I'll just wait a bit and bite the bullet by towing it to the dealer.

Had it taken to Meineke this morning. Bad idea. They couldn't even do a full diag. talking about their big scanner won't be available til tomorrow. So I didn't pay them. Not trying to be an asshole, but I told you the problem wasn't the batteries, so stop telling me it is when it's clear that something is draining them each time they're changed. And you can't even check everything because your equipment is at another location. that was weird to hear.

Y'all buy those labels, I was born supreme

Well slap my ass and call me Susan. Had no idea. Still, I wouldn't let them change my oil, let alone diagnose something under the hood.

<-- Dave Thomas knows what's up...
__________________________

Jay: Look here homie, any nigga can get a hit record. This here is about respect.
Game: Like Gladys Knight.
Jay: Aretha Franklin.
Game: Word, I like her too.
Jay: Nigga...

didn't realize they were this bad. I chose them because they were close and was trying to avoid the dealer. total waste of time.

getting towed to the dealer this morning. hopefully, I'll get it back before too long next week.

Y'all buy those labels, I was born supreme

Sorry it ain't work out.

I assume you checked your altenator?

Definitely look into fuses. They are so cheap and relatively easy to repair, I'd just do a wholesale change.

********************************

Get Out The Room!
http://getouttheroom.podomatic.com
@fakewilliamkatt

"You probably wouldn't worry about what people think of you if you could know how seldom they do!" - Olin Miller

I do think a fuse is blown somewhere. I'm tired of dealing with it.

just dropped it off at the stealership. hope they don't run my pockets too much, but it's above me now lol. I've spent money with no fix. so might as well let them do it now.

Y'all buy those labels, I was born supreme

Simple test.

but if you've replaced the battery and the car is still losing power, taht would be the 1st place I'd look.

Good luck.

********************************

Get Out The Room!
http://getouttheroom.podomatic.com
@fakewilliamkatt

"You probably wouldn't worry about what people think of you if you could know how seldom they do!" - Olin Miller

I don't have the tools or skills to take it out.

Y'all buy those labels, I was born supreme

good luck, i hope it gets resolved with minimal pain.

boss said his water pump and transmission need to get replaced. ouch.

my accounts already feel lighter just dropping it off lol but it's time to let the experts work on it.

definitely frustrated. glad I work from home. otherwise, this could've been a real messy situation.

dang! your boss might be feeling lighter soon too.

Y'all buy those labels, I was born supreme

If so, good call on that PDC...that's a common culprit on these cars. They are SUPER sensitive to anything voltage related. I've seen a poorly charging alternator cause 4, 5 different issues at one time. That fuse block is a good, next focus, if charging voltage has been verified. Good luck, my dude.

...I'm from the era when A.I. was the answer, now they think ai is the answer - Marlon Craft

thanks. I almost want it to be the alternator. hopefully the dealer can find what's draining the battery. even that's weird as it's only draining the aux, but not the main.

I've heard about the parasitic drain or whatever it's called. it finally got me lol

Y'all buy those labels, I was born supreme

It’s too nice. I don’t want to drive it lol.

the technology they have on new cars right now is nice. im trying to think what else i would want them to have in the future but not really sure. this is what keeps me from considering even 3 year old cars, i want the shiny stuff lol

>the technology they have on new cars right now is nice. im
>trying to think what else i would want them to have in the
>future but not really sure. this is what keeps me from
>considering even 3 year old cars, i want the shiny stuff lol

This car is sick. So many bells and whistles. I got the ten year service package added from the 3 yr it comes with in case anything goes wrong

this panoramic sunroof is lit

then it feels so good to drive at the same time.

those suvs are really nice looking.

Y'all buy those labels, I was born supreme

They were always my favorite growing up. In recent years I lost some interest in cars but every so often I get pulled back in.

I would definitely buy one or two if I won the lottery. Maybe in 10 years I can go full blown midlife crisis and get a C7 but who knows what the push to EVs will do to prices by then.

C4 and C5s are within reach but I just love how the C7 looks. I think it's everything the Corvette was striving to be until they went mid-engine. If I got a new job that paid really well I would be very tempted to get a C4 or C5 as a second car.

My all time favorite is the 1962 but those are ridiculously expensive and I really don't know that I would want deal with one lol I think C7 is a close second.

So I guess my order for generations would be
C1
C7
C2
C3
C4/C5/C8 (can't decide between them, C4s have aged well. C8s are too new)
C6 (don't like those headlights lol)

I'm excited to see where they go for C9 or what refinements they make to the C8. It's a nice looking car but I think it needs some refinement.

actually wanting one. The C names confuse me, but all the new vettes look amazing to me.

This new one, especially in that yellow, is really dope.

https://www.motortrend.com/news/2023-chevrolet-corvette-e-ray-everything-we-know-hybrid-electric/

I was just thinking about pivoting this post to dream cars.

Cadillac got my attention recently with their C sedans, CT4, CT5, even the CT6.

The CT5 Blackwing is my favorite though
https://www.caranddriver.com/cadillac/ct5-v-blackwing

Also like the Porche Taycan
https://media.torque.com.sg/public/2019/09/4219109-taycan-turbo-2019-porsche-ag-1.jpg

Lastly, I've always like the Grand Cherokee Trackhawks and SRT's.

I'm never getting close to any of these vehicles, but I might go test driving one day. Porsche has a driving experience thing at the headquarters here. Might pay the money for that one day.

Y'all buy those labels, I was born supreme

So C1 is just the first generation, C2 is second and so on. C8 is the current generation, the one you posted. Where I get confused is the C5 and C6, I basically forget the C6 existed. The new one is nice. I still go back and forth on how much I like it and how much I feel it looks like a Corvette. I'm basically now seeing it as the new phase of Corvettes. Everything before it was phase one, rear wheel drive. I don't know how long they will keep making ICE Corvettes. I would think at least 10 years but who knows. An EV one would be exciting.

I've never thought it would be practical to own one and basically still think the same. Just a small pivot to where if I get money that I can throw away then having one as a second car will be just fine lol

I really like the current Cadillac sedans, I would not get a blackwing because of the price. I was considering getting a CT4 or CT5 when I started looking at new cars. They're more expensive than what I want to pay for though. If they had a HEV or PHEV around the same price....it would still be too much but I would think longer lol The CT4 felt really small inside to me. I think it's just because everything goes up further than my current car so it feels enclosed. I think I could have adjusted the seating height and been fine with it. CT5 was a good size. I would definitely buy one if I could comfortably afford it.

is tiring


>They were always my favorite growing up. In recent years I
>lost some interest in cars but every so often I get pulled
>back in.
>
>I would definitely buy one or two if I won the lottery. Maybe
>in 10 years I can go full blown midlife crisis and get a C7
>but who knows what the push to EVs will do to prices by then.
>
>C4 and C5s are within reach but I just love how the C7 looks.
>I think it's everything the Corvette was striving to be until
>they went mid-engine. If I got a new job that paid really well
>I would be very tempted to get a C4 or C5 as a second car.
>
>My all time favorite is the 1962 but those are ridiculously
>expensive and I really don't know that I would want deal with
>one lol I think C7 is a close second.
>
>So I guess my order for generations would be
>C1
>C7
>C2
>C3
>C4/C5/C8 (can't decide between them, C4s have aged well. C8s
>are too new)
>C6 (don't like those headlights lol)
>
>I'm excited to see where they go for C9 or what refinements
>they make to the C8. It's a nice looking car but I think it
>needs some refinement.

its not bad but compared to getting into an SUV? I miss that some.

I've never been in a Corvette but getting into a Camaro is tight enough so yeah I know I would not want to deal with that on a daily driver. Once or twice a week though?

It just seems to scream mid-life crisis.

********************************

Get Out The Room!
http://getouttheroom.podomatic.com
@fakewilliamkatt

"You probably wouldn't worry about what people think of you if you could know how seldom they do!" - Olin Miller

I ain't got it.

the axle work was covered by the mechanical protection plan that is tied to my loan.

the rest:

cabin filter
rotor resurfacing
CVT fluid replacement

is NOT.

I can do this shit myself or at a local shop, right?


Right after Xmas. I ain't got it bro.

IG: amadu_me

"...Whateva, man..." (c) Redman

that remaining stuff BET NOT be 2600. To your question, doe...cabin air filters are usually placed where they are mad accessible by most anyone. Rotor resurfacing? No brake pads? They just want to resurface the rotors? Did you complain of pulsating or something? The CVT service, I would let the dealership do that one. Just for receipts if you have a transmission issue down the line. Out of curiosity, is that a Nissan/Infiniti?

...I'm from the era when A.I. was the answer, now they think ai is the answer - Marlon Craft

I didnt complain of anything but the wheel wobbling on the drivers side. The other stuff was overdue.

This ios the 'stealership' tho...89.995 for an oil change? NAH

I've gotten spoiled. I had box Chevy's I used to work on myself, but those have a lot of room and not as temperamental.

I got a promotion and a raise and now I'm too good to get my hands scratched up. SMH

LMAOOOOOOOOOO

IG: amadu_me

"...Whateva, man..." (c) Redman

I got a promotion and a raise and now I'm too good to get my
>hands scratched up. SMH
>
>LMAOOOOOOOOOO

that's generally how it works, but also these newer cars aren't as easy to do or just don't have to the time to learn what's wrong and then do it.

I ain't nobody's mechanic, so anything I'm doing myself is a learning experience. I'm good with that sometimes. otherwise, somebody gotta take dis money.

Y'all buy those labels, I was born supreme

I'm willing to bet the cost of a new set of pads and rotors may be less than the dealer wants to charge for resurfacing and new pads. Start fresh, save money. The hardest part may be bleeding the brakes, and that's not really an issue.

I'm guessing these are the front brakes, correct?

<-- Dave Thomas knows what's up...
__________________________

Jay: Look here homie, any nigga can get a hit record. This here is about respect.
Game: Like Gladys Knight.
Jay: Aretha Franklin.
Game: Word, I like her too.
Jay: Nigga...

for their BEST level pads and some rotors and come out cheaper than dealer labor for just turning rotors.

...I'm from the era when A.I. was the answer, now they think ai is the answer - Marlon Craft

the fuse block needed to be replaced. the start/stop function is working properly. didn't cost me as much as I was thinking, but this is also after I'd already replaced both batteries and the power distribution center. that's the good news.

the bad news....somehow my steering wheel now has plastic pieces sticking out the bottom rear. I was driving home from the dealer and noticed the leather around the bottom felt loose. felt back there further I got home and it was jagged plastic sticking out the back. how tf does this even happen.

took it back to them this morning and they had no idea how it happened either, but they're going to replace it for free. I won't be mad at a new steering wheel, but this shouldn't be a thing that needs replacing.

next up, brake pads.

Y'all buy those labels, I was born supreme

Glad they got you running again.

<-- Dave Thomas knows what's up...
__________________________

Jay: Look here homie, any nigga can get a hit record. This here is about respect.
Game: Like Gladys Knight.
Jay: Aretha Franklin.
Game: Word, I like her too.
Jay: Nigga...

https://www.sdautoshow.com/

The convention center is large, well ventilated, and I don't think it's going to be packed.

I'm still hesitant to go.

------------


Gone: My Discogs collection for The Roots:
http://www.discogs.com/user/tomhayes-roots/collection

Would love to if the auto show rolls into town in DC, but like you, I have my concerns. I'd have to go on an off day, N95'd up and gloved and/or sanitizer up like at the beginning of the 'VID era.

<-- Dave Thomas knows what's up...
__________________________

Jay: Look here homie, any nigga can get a hit record. This here is about respect.
Game: Like Gladys Knight.
Jay: Aretha Franklin.
Game: Word, I like her too.
Jay: Nigga...

(Cleanly shaved face with a new N-95 on, washed hands upon entering and exiting. )

Show was not incredibly crowded but it had a decent crowd. It wasn't like comic-con crowded but it also wasn't not-crowded - especially in some areas.

I checked out the Lexus section because the 2023 Lexus UX supposedly is built on the same platform as the new Prius. I thought the windshield was too raked and the view through the front window seemed a little small - not Chrysler 300 small but smaller than I expected. I tired the NX and also though "Why isn't this window bigger??"

I checked out the Hyundai too I still really like the feel of the Tucson. The Ioniq is too expensive.

Toyota had the Prius there but it was marked "PROTOTYPE!!!" and was locked and they would not let you sit in it. The thing will be at dealer's next month - I can't believe they wouldn't let you sit in it.

The RAV4 is still a pretty decent feeling SUV to sit in.

KIA's Niro subcompact SV had a very nice interior - much nicer than I expected on a cheap car.

They wouldn't let you sit in the new Corvette either.

Nor the 2023 Honda Accord - which for some reason had a sticker price of $39k. It must have been loaded all the way up.

The CRV has great visibility and is very comfortable - but I hear the engine drags - even the Hybrid. Waiting for a Hybrid to hit the dealer showroom and try to test drive it.

I think I was only in the show for an hour but I saw a bunch of cars and got to sit in most of them. Nothing blew me away, I might go to to the Audio dealer and check out their stuff - they weren't at the show.

Someone did a walk through without a crowd, when I went it was much more crowded: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Ppcsmbf8Ac

------------


Gone: My Discogs collection for The Roots:
http://www.discogs.com/user/tomhayes-roots/collection

I know when I first heard of them my mind was blown. I really wanted to go to one. When I moved to Detroit I think I went every year.

I almost convinced myself to buy a CRV this weekend. I was going to go top trim hybrid. I figured that I almost went with an Intergra and that was only like $2k less than the CRV would be lol

I had seen a video of cars that dealerships had inventory of and willing to make deals on. That lead to me looking at inventory at Honda dealerships (I think Accord's were listed for potential deals) and I saw the CRV. I think three dealerships in the area each had one. Two of them confirmed they would sell it at MSRP. I was busy that day so I thought I'd go check it out the next day. At some point in that first day I was like naaaaah lol

The way they're doing the hybrid is kind of odd. Supposedly it will use gas all of the time while many hybrids will run on pure electric at some points. That's what I really want. My commute is less than 4 miles each way and under 50 MPH the whole way. I think in many hybrids I could potentially go without using gas for a good chunk of my week until the motor needs to get juiced up.

I kind of do want the CRV. It almost has everything I want, no ventilated seats is another "zonk" on it. I think I'm going to chill though.

My brain is telling me to wait until 2024 to take advantage of the EV tax credits. If you buy this year you will get a credit on your taxes you file next year. If you buy next year you get the credit knocked off the MSRP.

I miiiiight go look at a Bolt EUV but would be smarter to just wait.

I figure I will have more options and maybe Honda even adds ventilated seats to the CRV.

That's a lot of money for that Accord. I've been waiting to see pricing for it.

They had a Hybrid Touring demo and an EXL. I went in wanting to check out the stereo and wanting to see if I would even really want one. I was thinking if they offered me $2k over KBB for my trade-in and sold it at MSRP I might do it.

The stereo on the touring is nice. It has good bass at default setting and really bumps when you turn it up. The regular stereo on the EXL sounds good, just not great bass. If you turn up the bass on that one it does not sound good but it should be good for most people.

Overall I really liked the CR-V. It basically has everything I want. Driving it is nice, it's so smooth on the freeway. I was about to step on the gas to speed up but then saw I was already 5 over, it didn't feel like it lol. The back seats are so roomy. From the outside it looks huge but inside it feels right. If I was where I wanted to be financially I would get one right now. I did talk numbers with them on the EXL to see what they would do. They initially came in a couple thousand over MSRP and lowballed me on the trade-in. They did agree to sell at MSRP and bumped up the trade-in to what I thought was like $1500 less than KBB. I wasn't going to buy it so I didn't push further.

When I bought my current car they told me it was a trim higher than it is and I've always been unsure. Looking up the trim options for the year yeah I don't have the trim I thought I had lol. So their last offer on it was actually slightly above KBB.

If you're looking for a two row SUV I would definitely look at the CR-V. I looked into other options and if you want a Hybrid I don't know that you will get something better for less or even as good for less.

the bass surprised me, it knocks and is much better than it was in my Civic Sport Touring

I loved our Civic, but my wife wanted an SUV, and as soon as I sat in the CR-V, I knew why they sell so many of these things.

I haven't looked into the hybrid options for the new version, but when we got this one, there really weren't enough available to have much choice, and we don't drive enough for the mpg to be a big difference. the hybrid did have extra HP but it really doesn't need it

www.engadgethd.com - the other stuff i'm looking at

At least based on one youtube channel. Kind of seems they just don't like them. They gave the new CR-V a B+ I think which is the highest I've seen them give a Honda. I loved how the Sport Accord I rented sounded. The Integra sounds great too.

Most of my driving is in the city, so little highway so I don't get great MPG numbers. Still surprises me when I do drive on the highway and see close to 40 MPG in my current car. Most of the time I'm seeing under 20. This is why I think a low range EV or Hybrid would make sense for me.

I definitely want the CR-V but I need to be patient.

I was always of the opinion that the speakers and amp in the civic were capable of more, but the headunit and system were tuned in a way that took the low end out of many songs.

my cr-v doesn't have that problem

www.engadgethd.com - the other stuff i'm looking at

May have posted before, but if not, quick recap...

Wife's 2012 Ford Focus (paid off) was a moving hurdle for a deer, who couldn't quite clear it. Insurance totaled the car. Unfortunately, everything with wheels is expensive in the COVID era, so finding a used car was stressful. After almost 4 months of fits, starts and disappointments, my wife found a 2002 Saturn L200 WAGON.

Now, Saturn holds a place in my family. My first car was a '96 SL2. Drove it for 8 years before someone totaled it. Next car was a L200 sedan. Drove that for 11 years until the Ecotec snapped it's timing chain for the second time. So for her to come across a wagon version of that sedan, with one owner, all 3 sets of keys and fobs (2 driver + valet key) and a repair history a decade back, it was unheard of. 165k, paid under $3k cash, and she's rolling in a rarity. A rare car nobody cares about, but it's a burgundy wagon, which is practical and fly. Working on the car is still annoying, but I've been through most of it already. Once the job and money gets right, I'm replacing the timing chain (won't have a 3rd one break on me if I can help it), replacing the headlamps (bumper needs to come off), swap the struts (I'm sure they are the same from 2002, so they are well past their prime), repainting the fenders (clearcoat failing) and we will roll as long as it can go.

<-- Dave Thomas knows what's up...
__________________________

Jay: Look here homie, any nigga can get a hit record. This here is about respect.
Game: Like Gladys Knight.
Jay: Aretha Franklin.
Game: Word, I like her too.
Jay: Nigga...

Congrats! I had to look up a pic of that Saturn, haven't seen many of those. I'm always sad wagons and hatches weren't bigger here in the US. Will you paint the fenders yourself? I'm intimidated to even polish a car, clay and wax is as far I've gotten.

See ya, JAK
http://www.staugustinepics.com/

Winner of OKP Second Photo Kontest
Pic #6 http://www.tha-renaissance.com/effstop/kontest2

Ordered the color match paint and clearcoat. Wet sanded the areas already, though I likely need to do it again to get the edges extra smooth. But time to mask up the panels and actually paint it when your daughter is in dance class means the car is always on the move.

I even have a DA polisher and a few different compounds, polishes and pads. It's really not difficult, but again, no time. I plan on giving my Fusion a good decontamination, clay, polish, and some coating over the spring. The Wagon may go with a clean, clay, and good wax (probably Colinite 845)

<-- Dave Thomas knows what's up...
__________________________

Jay: Look here homie, any nigga can get a hit record. This here is about respect.
Game: Like Gladys Knight.
Jay: Aretha Franklin.
Game: Word, I like her too.
Jay: Nigga...

I get there and they tell me it'll be a week before I get it back. Originally I was told it would be given back the same day. Once my call is done, I'm call the service manager. this is silly.

Y'all buy those labels, I was born supreme

I don't think the service manager that takes the call and the mechanics ever talk to each other. Just get the car in the door for the work and then let them know the bad news.

My one day TSB recall that should have been a day took over a week. Same for my wife's clutch pack. Meanwhile, back when my SL2 needed a transmission teardown that was supposed to take 18 hours, they did it in 6 (but still charged the 18 hour book rate). It's all a crapshoot

<-- Dave Thomas knows what's up...
__________________________

Jay: Look here homie, any nigga can get a hit record. This here is about respect.
Game: Like Gladys Knight.
Jay: Aretha Franklin.
Game: Word, I like her too.
Jay: Nigga...

last week, I was told I'd get it by the end of the day. so it was a complete surprise when I got that news today.

Y'all buy those labels, I was born supreme

OVERBOOK, OVERBOOK, and then OVERBOOK. Been on both sides of it...as a tech and as a customer. I recently had to politely go in on the Kia dealer where my car was. When I'm taking my car to the dealer as a customer, I try to keep it funky and be understanding. I don't go in with a sign saying "hi! I am an ASE certified Master Technician with over 20 years of experience both as a tech, advisor, and an extended warranty claims analyst"...but, stop playing. Had my car towed there and dropped on a Saturday. I already knew it was the fuel pump, just not sure which one. I took it there because I have an extended warranty AND I wanted a Kia fuel pump used. I go up Monday morning, in person just to talk to the adviser and tell him the story. To his credit, he keeps it a buck and says they may not even get to it this week. They didn't. He finally texts me the following Tuesday to say it was the fuel pump, he'll call my warranty company and get the claim in. He texts me back the next day to say the claim was approved and he will get the part and get it done as soon as possible. The next Monday morning (2 weeks from the day I checked it in), I got a text that it was ready to go. I roll up that evening after work and pick it up. I can immediately tell a difference in how long it takes to crank after it's been sitting, but I roll on. Also, I peeped on the repair order the part number for the fuel pump was not a Kia part. I quickly checked the number back to a Delphi pump from Auto Zone. THIS...was why I wanted a factory part, in this case. Aftermarket fuel pumps are sketchy AF and hit or miss. I'm out rolling, the day after Thanksgiving. I stop at a gas station to roll through the car wash. My car dies...right at a pump. FUCK! AAA scoops me up and I roll it back to the dealer...here's where the bullshit starts. There's a bunch of dudes standing around when the tow truck pulls up. I go in and talk to the little cat behind the service desk. He gets it all checked in and then goes over to the group of techs watching the tow truck driver drop my car. Dude comes back and says, "I was just talking to the tech who worked on your car, last time (4 days ago) and he said he may have to get your ok to disconnect the aftermarket, automatic start...that could be the problem". My mechanic brain went BONKERS, lol...but, I chilled and said...just give me a call. No calls for 4 days. I finally texted the advisor that I was dealing with last time. He tells me that there is a new advisor now and HE will get in touch with me. All this time, I'm knowing they basically used a pump that either completely failed or wasn't pumping a high enough volume of fuel (which would explain the slow crank). The other cat finally calls me and get this yall: He says...it sounds like your fuel pump is bad...I have an estimate for parts and labor. I quickly cut him off and said WHICH PUMP??? THE IN-TANK ONE???? THE ONE YOU GUYS REPLACED NINE DAYS AGO??? He replies that he's not sure, he'll have to check with the tech. LMAO!! He eventually comes back and says that it was that one and it would be taken care of at no cost (damn right it will, smh). I advise him that I need them to use a Kia pump, even if they have to order it and wait. They do, it get's done, I pick up my car, it's been good since. One of my main gripes with dealerships...besides overbooking is the advisers are more and more, not really hired to know anything about cars and you know, advise!!! They just want people who can sell. Upsell, upsell, upsell. How on Earth did this guy not do the smallest amount of legwork to see that my car had just left and had the damn fuel pump replaced? Instead, he's just trying to sell a fuel pump job.

...I'm from the era when A.I. was the answer, now they think ai is the answer - Marlon Craft

That's crazy af. all of this headache could've been prevented. that's what bothers me. they don't seem to communicate well or check with each other on what's going on.

part of my frustration is I'm at their mercy, barring any of my own research. I don't have the skills or feel for many things on cars. I also rarely go to dealers for numerous reasons. last time I was at a dealer before this latest round, was 3 years ago to have them put on the trailer hitch. something that didn't require a diag. scheduled it and got out.

they should call them schedule or sales advisors. lol

Y'all buy those labels, I was born supreme

partly because there is HIGH turnover at dealerships...especially the advisors...they come and go with the quickness. I can't tell you how many times I get a call from a service manager and they'll be like..."hey, I need to follow up on a claim...my advisor who started it quit". Happens on the regular.

...I'm from the era when A.I. was the answer, now they think ai is the answer - Marlon Craft

was told he no longer works there. lol. at least the guy I spoke with was trying to helpful. should hear from him tomorrow.

Y'all buy those labels, I was born supreme

> One of my main gripes with dealerships...besides overbooking is the >advisers are more and more, not really hired to know anything about
>cars and you know, advise!!! They just want people who can sell. >Upsell, upsell, upsell.

In my younger days, I was an ASE certified parts manager at Trak Auto (when they existed, before Advance Auto bought them out) and Autozone. Not exactly rocket science, but you had to have at least a base level understanding of many car systems so you can help the customer, who may be coming in for blinker fluid, explain what their problem is and figure out the part they need. When I started, there were a number of older car guys and mechanics, both of the trained and shade tree variety. I absorbed what they knew, what I already knew, what workshops they had, manuals to read, etc, and got my accreditation. At one point, I could pull the part you needed without checking the computer first.

Now? It's just a job for most people in shops and stores. Either the computer or somebody else will tell them what's needed. They don't want to learn anything or do more than base level, which kills the whole experience up and down the chain. I haven't slung parts in two decades at this point and my brother will STILL ask me for part numbers before he goes into a store because he can't trust 'em.

I'll get off my soapbox now...

<-- Dave Thomas knows what's up...
__________________________

Jay: Look here homie, any nigga can get a hit record. This here is about respect.
Game: Like Gladys Knight.
Jay: Aretha Franklin.
Game: Word, I like her too.
Jay: Nigga...

he had been rocking a 2009 Kia Spectra he bought after graduation high school, using money saved from his part time gig and graduation gifts. A couple weeks ago he bought a 17 Forte. He instantly hated how the stock halogen headlamp bulbs looked and I schooled him on how to find his size (I already knew, but I made him look it up on Sylvania's website...LOL). So he rolled up in Advanced yesterday...said he asked where the bulbs were and ol girl pointed him in the direction. He had already researched, so he walked straight back, grabbed some ZXE whites in H7 and came right back to the register. The lady was like..."no one ever knows what bulb they need. Hell, I wouldn't have known without looking in the computer" I used to walk over to the parts window when I was at Hyundai and basically call out the suffix of the part number on most shit. It's just robots, glued to the computer now.

...I'm from the era when A.I. was the answer, now they think ai is the answer - Marlon Craft

Late 90s we knew what cars were in the area (Crown Vics, Caprices, all models of K car, G-Bodys, mid year Hondas and Toyotas, etc). Brake pads (heavy duty package or not), rotors, starters, alternators, batteries, wipers, spark plugs... most of those memorized because we saw them all the time. Mid cycle cars were always fun, as the customer didn't know if they had cap and rotor or coils. We could go outside, look under the hood, and know in 10 seconds or less. I couldn't tell you how often people would fumble with wiper blades for 10 minutes and we could change most of them in 2 (unless they were those 80s cars with the bastard screw adaptors. Hated those...). Best times were when a customer would have some weird project car or commercial vehicle that may not have been in the system. Then it was match the part or look in the paper manuals, which was a skill all by itself, and one I was damn good at.

Now? Nobody takes pride in their work. May not be glamorous, but damn it, have some pride and be good at your non glamorous job.

<-- Dave Thomas knows what's up...
__________________________

Jay: Look here homie, any nigga can get a hit record. This here is about respect.
Game: Like Gladys Knight.
Jay: Aretha Franklin.
Game: Word, I like her too.
Jay: Nigga...

oh my god we're old

www.engadgethd.com - the other stuff i'm looking at

you know you're old when your son has a car note, LOL.

...I'm from the era when A.I. was the answer, now they think ai is the answer - Marlon Craft

It's a grown man sport, I suppose

<-- Dave Thomas knows what's up...
__________________________

Jay: Look here homie, any nigga can get a hit record. This here is about respect.
Game: Like Gladys Knight.
Jay: Aretha Franklin.
Game: Word, I like her too.
Jay: Nigga...

www.engadgethd.com - the other stuff i'm looking at

it aint even a real self check out. They just turned the computer screen around on a cash register.

I think pretty soon we can open and close that joint and go in the back and get our parts.

I joked: “oh we are doing self check out now?” because people were chilling like it was the store in South Side and she was YEP! Not even sure if its true, I think she was just being lazy because she was like “dont click there, click here.. and not here, but here..”

I think she called my bluff

****************
TBH the fact that you're even a mod here fits squarely within Jag's narrative of OK-sanctioned aggression, bullying, and toxicity. *shrug*

at the Advanced near me.

...I'm from the era when A.I. was the answer, now they think ai is the answer - Marlon Craft

will see if its real or she was just being lazy

****************
TBH the fact that you're even a mod here fits squarely within Jag's narrative of OK-sanctioned aggression, bullying, and toxicity. *shrug*