Originally Posted by ImportConvert (Post 2615281)

Well, I finally bought 35 acres in NorthWest Arkansas. Beautiful place on the top of a mountain. Only problem is, it snows there. I also am planning to do a lot of camping/hiking/etc. and need the extra space in a vehicle to do that.

What kind of SUV should I trade my 370Z for?

Right now, I am looking at a 2009/2010 Grand Jeep Cherokee Overland/Limited V8, 4WD.

I want to spend around $20K, give/take a few.

Suggestions?

Originally Posted by Chuck33079 (Post 2616050)

:rolleyes: Finally, we get to the whole point of the thread. Another anti-Nissan rant. We get it. You got a lemon and are pissed about it. If I were so fed up with a product, I would not be going on that respective forum soliciting input on the replacement. i would go to the forum of the vehicle I was considering purchasing. Sorry for your experience, maybe you could just move on? Why waste your time on a forum for a car you hate from a company you despise?

Did you ever take it to a different dealer, or are you still absolutely convinced they're flawless and it's the car, which no one else has had the same problems you have, that is the real issue?

Originally Posted by ImportConvert (Post 2615961)

Well lucky you. I'm tired of paying for repairs and dealing with messed up ****, and I'm still under 3/36. Screw that. My 1980's mustang had more robust brake components (Even if it didn't stop as well, I only needed ONE set of rotors, not 3.), and the transmission in my 2001 Trans Am was a much better component, and NONE of my other cars had power steering pumps that whined like a mofo "from the factory, as normal, per the manufacturer". So, I'm glad your car isn't a shitbox, but mine is, and so is Nissan's customer service, so why in the world would I keep this thing past 3/36? It's junk.

Clapped out and ready to be thrown away as far as I'm concerned. It's reached the stage in its life where it will always have **** going wrong with it and cost you money every time you turn around. You know, the stage at which domestics normally reach in 5-7 years where you finally break down and buy a new one because the repairs > a note. Yeah, it's getting there before it's even out from under 3/36. Really, I cannot express enough disdain for the Nissan brand or the 370Z product, in general. I just want OUT of it before I get too far out from under warranty (31K miles right now) and have to pay hand over fist just to keep it on the road. THe power steering moans and groans like a whore and that's embarrassing enough everyone staring at it when I pull into a parking-lot, or it sounding like a damn supercharger pulling up to a traffic light. I can only imagine what those buggers would charge me to replace it when it finally goes, probably at 37K miles, lol!

I've gotten some good info from this thread, and am considering the 4-runner special edition, now, as well. As well as some validation of my choice of the GJC from everyone who has owned or experienced one.

Originally Posted by ImportConvert (Post 2616129)

Well, the problem is Nissan. They finally admitted the brake issue. They were using a pneumatic wrench to tighten the lug nuts. This car can't withstand such. It warped the rotors. They found this out when their gtr tech attended a conference in Texas. Used a hand powered tool, and all is better. Shitty design.

Powersteering pump whining like a belt driven sc is normal for economy cars, they say. That includes altimas with more curvy sheetmetal.

I post here because I wish someone honest about the platform had clued me in before I bought it, although 5_0 tried, he wasn't near as openly vocal about it as I'm being. Just trying to look out for anyone considering one of these poser sports cars.

Any way I can hurt nissan, I will. I hope my posts and the incidents o have recounted cost sales. **** em.

Originally Posted by ImportConvert (Post 2616200)

Offered $16k trade in.

Originally Posted by AK370Z (Post 2616206)

(and you should look into lemon laws if you're so fed up?) with your Z, maybe it's your Z that wasn't so lucky out of the factory.

Originally Posted by AK370Z (Post 2616206)

Hi,
How can do you still have 3 years/36,000 miles bumper to bumper warranty and still "tired of paying for repairs"? Anything happen during 3/36 is fixed under warranty with no questions asked. I do not understand that statement. Please elaborate

The service manager swore it was my driving style that caused rotors to go bad every few thousand miles (but the pads and tires looked good...), and very heavily leaned on me to put some slotted rotors on it. That came out of pocket. When they, too, warped in 500-1500 miles, and Nissan NA became involved, he lied to my face and said he never said that, and that he would NEVER suggest non Nissan parts. So I was SOL on that expenditure.

AND if you're so concerned with paying out of pocket for repair, why didn't your buy Nissan Silver or Gold preffered warranty? This will help how? 3/36 wouldn't cover it. Why would some aftermarket warranty cover it?They are darn cheap! My car currently has 83,xxx miles and I still have bumper to bumper till 2016 or 120K miles. Do you know how many trips I have made to the dealer for repairs in my last 5 years or 83,000 miles? 3 times. 1st time I overtightened one lug (Front Right wheel) with a faulty Harbor Freight tq wrench (totally my fault. Can't blame Nissan). 2nd instance was when steering lock went out but it was the most pleasant experience I had considering the crappy situation (steeling lock going bad). A flatbed tow truck was sent with a very courteous driver, I sat with him to dealer, dealer gave me rental till the car is fixed. One time I ran out of fuel because the gauge told me 1/5 tank left, the trip-read said 120 miles left, but I was going up a bridge in a corner, it fuel-starved, and even once on level ground and showing 8X miles to empty, would not crank. Dealer told me SOL, have it towed. My Dad came and put some gas in the car and it fixed the issue. Shitty gauge. Never had a car run out of fuel still showing that much fuel on the gauge and over 80 miles to E. Dealer overnighted the steering lock and the very next day I had the car back in perfect shape. I don't know how much better experience I can ask for. 3rd instance was with crank position sensor. As usual, dropped the car off and walked out with a loaner. Everything was done within 2 business day and ALL I had to pay was $50 deductible. Nice. I didn't get a loaner except twice. Once was a damn LEAF with barely any charge on it, and once was a shitty Altima. My car has been at the dealer for nearly a week before for this brake issue. I miss the shitty Altima. It performs as advertised and was reliable.

If your car is giving you power steering whining, you need to take it to the dealer. They don't give a ****. You're still under 3/36 and they will fix it free. You get a loaner. No you don't. Whining to us, isn't going to solve anything. I'm not complaining, I'm warning others. You complained about brake issue. The issue is "not so great" akebono rotors. They go bad around 30K. Nice, mine went bad at 10K, 17K, 23K. I changed them to Stoptech regular replacement from tirerack ($97 a piece for front and even cheaper for rear) and you should come drive my car! Even 25K miles later on those rotors, car stops on a dime, no shake or vibrations what so ever. Cool, Z1 must use **** then. They warped the same week that they put them and Stoptech pads on.I did 1 hpde track day and about 90+ autox runs this year = no issues. I personally think pneumatic wrench has nothing to do with it. Why? bc my mechanic used pneumatic wrench many times after stoptech replacement, no issues. I changed tires at shop and pneumatic wrench was used, no problem. All I can say is what they told me, but we both suspect they are lying. Forum is the place where you research and find out what's wrong and go fix it. Instead of arguing, learn and change should be the right attitude.

Lets switch position for a sec: lets say you're the admin of a huge Mustang 5.0 forum and I'm importconvert_5.0, a member who owns 5.0 mustang. Every day I constantly bash this 5.0 Mustang to no point, I call out Ford as a pos, I call out mustang as the biggest pos, I wish to hurt the Ford any way I can by spreading my stories and engage in regular argument with 5.0 enthusiasts that their car sucks! What do you think will happen to me on that forum? Let me let you in a real secret: I'll be gone when I create my 3rd thread! Fair enough. Hopefully the threads remain so that people can learn from my misfortune with Nissan's junk. You have to understand just bc you're having all these issues (and you should look into lemon laws if you're so fed up? I have, car has to bed own for 120 days during the first year, or something totally absurd.) with your Z, maybe it's your Z that wasn't so lucky out of the factory. There are hundreds and thousands of satisfied owners here. That's good for them. Some rarely ever made a trip to dealer in 40-50-60,000 miles. If you're constantly bashing a car coming to that car specific forum, you will not gain popularity among member or admin. Nor do I expect any favors, but thank-you for being polite and candid. Nothing against you, personally, of course. If 370Z is giving you so much issues, perhaps you should trade it in. I'd like to, but taking a $25,000 hit after 1 year of ownership sucks balls. I should have looked at residual, that's my fault for buying what seems like a 3rd world product. But you're pushing my patience to the edge and you're randomly picking argument and telling 370Z enthusiasts on a 370Z forum that their 370Z sucks. Just because I am a nice guy (admin), please don't take advantage of me. Think for a second where you are and have a little respect for other 370Z enthusiasts here. I'll appreciate if you stop your constant 370Z bashing here on THE370z

Thank you.

A. Kaiser

Originally Posted by Chuck33079 (Post 2616211)

:iagree:

Your situation seems to be exactly why there are lemon laws on the books.

Originally Posted by Chuck33079 (Post 2616207)

You're getting lowballed. Badly. Even with the accident, every website I've seen says 23-27 trade in.

Originally Posted by AK370Z (Post 2616206)

Hi,
How can do you still have 3 years/36,000 miles bumper to bumper warranty and still "tired of paying for repairs"? Anything happen during 3/36 is fixed under warranty with no questions asked. I do not understand that statement. Please elaborate

The service manager swore it was my driving style that caused rotors to go bad every few thousand miles (but the pads and tires looked good...), and very heavily leaned on me to put some slotted rotors on it. That came out of pocket. When they, too, warped in 500-1500 miles, and Nissan NA became involved, he lied to my face and said he never said that, and that he would NEVER suggest non Nissan parts. So I was SOL on that expenditure.

There's a big problem with the Nissan dealer you go to and the service manager. He is pretty much doing everything wrong. NO Nissan service manager EVER suggested me to buy something other than Nissan product. As you see, you're dealing with a lying service manager. When you tell Nissan you bought aftermarket rotors, Nissan doesn't know you bought $600 DBA 2 piece floating rotors or $30 ebay rotors. That's why it's never approved by Nissan. It's your service adviser. After that incident, you should have never returned to this dealer and go to the nearest dealer.

AND if you're so concerned with paying out of pocket for repair, why didn't your buy Nissan Silver or Gold preffered warranty? This will help how? 3/36 wouldn't cover it. Why would some aftermarket warranty cover it? IT IS 100% NISSAN warranty. This is NOT an aftermarket warranty. This silver or gold treated as a Nissan oem warranty. It works just like one. Granted things like clutch, tire, brake pads/rotors, wipers, etc aren't covered as these are everyday wear and tear parts when you drive the car but it covers everything else (1900 parts to be exact). They are darn cheap! My car currently has 83,xxx miles and I still have bumper to bumper till 2016 or 120K miles. Do you know how many trips I have made to the dealer for repairs in my last 5 years or 83,000 miles? 3 times. 1st time I overtightened one lug (Front Right wheel) with a faulty Harbor Freight tq wrench (totally my fault. Can't blame Nissan). 2nd instance was when steering lock went out but it was the most pleasant experience I had considering the crappy situation (steeling lock going bad). A flatbed tow truck was sent with a very courteous driver, I sat with him to dealer, dealer gave me rental till the car is fixed. One time I ran out of fuel because the gauge told me 1/5 tank left, the trip-read said 120 miles left, but I was going up a bridge in a corner, it fuel-starved, and even once on level ground and showing 8X miles to empty, would not crank. Dealer told me SOL, have it towed. My Dad came and put some gas in the car and it fixed the issue. Shitty gauge. Never had a car run out of fuel still showing that much fuel on the gauge and over 80 miles to E. one time?? I ran out of fuel in camaro more than 3 times. Words can't describe how crappy that fuel gauge was. Fuel starvation is a issue that kind of inevitable for us. We have all kind of learned about it and figured out a way to avoid it. The best solution is to keep the tank full. I do autox(involves 1G+ lat turns and abs braking) and did 90+ runs this year. It's pain to remember but I just made sure I always have full tank before I autox. No. 1 and no. 3 National scca c stock podium guys uses 370z and I spoke to both of them. Same thing they told me, "I just make sure I have full tank when I come to autox." It'll probably be fixed next gen Z. I'm not saying it's the solution but it's something we had to live with.Dealer overnighted the steering lock and the very next day I had the car back in perfect shape. I don't know how much better experience I can ask for. 3rd instance was with crank position sensor. As usual, dropped the car off and walked out with a loaner. Everything was done within 2 business day and ALL I had to pay was $50 deductible. Nice. I didn't get a loaner except twice. Once was a damn LEAF with barely any charge on it, and once was a shitty Altima. My car has been at the dealer for nearly a week before for this brake issue. I miss the shitty Altima. It performs as advertised and was reliable.

If your car is giving you power steering whining, you need to take it to the dealer. They don't give a ****. again, I'm telling you that your dealer is horrible. You need to find another dealer. how far is your next Nissan dealer? it's makes a night and day difference from one dealer to another. Two weeks ago I had my tmps reset done for the winter rims. I have paid up to $55 in past to other crappy Nissan dealer. Guess how much I have been paying lately? nothing. Dealer does it as a courtesy. So, please look into another dealer. You're still under 3/36 and they will fix it free. You get a loaner. No you don't. They have to give you a loaner. Dealer usually never asks twice especially if you're rolling in with a 35k car. Heck I have seen altima/sentra owners getting loaner for their service. Whining to us, isn't going to solve anything. I'm not complaining, I'm warning others. You complained about brake issue. The issue is "not so great" akebono rotors. They go bad around 30K. Nice, mine went bad at 10K, 17K, 23K. I changed them to Stoptech regular replacement from tirerack ($97 a piece for front and even cheaper for rear) and you should come drive my car! Even 25K miles later on those rotors, car stops on a dime, no shake or vibrations what so ever. Cool, Z1 must use **** then. They warped the same week that they put them and Stoptech pads on.If you had stoptech pads, you should have gone with stoptech rotors. It's a fantastic combo that I kept telling myself to write a review about. I don't know what z1 uses.I did 1 hpde track day and about 90+ autox runs this year = no issues. I personally think pneumatic wrench has nothing to do with it. Why? bc my mechanic used pneumatic wrench many times after stoptech replacement, no issues. I changed tires at shop and pneumatic wrench was used, no problem. All I can say is what they told me, but we both suspect they are lying. Forum is the place where you research and find out what's wrong and go fix it. Instead of arguing, learn and change should be the right attitude.

Lets switch position for a sec: lets say you're the admin of a huge Mustang 5.0 forum and I'm importconvert_5.0, a member who owns 5.0 mustang. Every day I constantly bash this 5.0 Mustang to no point, I call out Ford as a pos, I call out mustang as the biggest pos, I wish to hurt the Ford any way I can by spreading my stories and engage in regular argument with 5.0 enthusiasts that their car sucks! What do you think will happen to me on that forum? Let me let you in a real secret: I'll be gone when I create my 3rd thread! Fair enough. Hopefully the threads remain so that people can learn from my misfortune with Nissan's junk.It's NOT a Nissan's junk. Just because you had problem with yours, you can't "label" 370Z as a junk. Every manufacturer have troublesome car every now and then. It's unfortunate that you ended up with one. You have to understand just bc you're having all these issues (and you should look into lemon laws if you're so fed up? I have, car has to bed own for 120 days during the first year, or something totally absurd.) with your Z, maybe it's your Z that wasn't so lucky out of the factory. There are hundreds and thousands of satisfied owners here. That's good for them. Some rarely ever made a trip to dealer in 40-50-60,000 miles. If you're constantly bashing a car coming to that car specific forum, you will not gain popularity among member or admin. Nor do I expect any favors, but thank-you for being polite and candid. Nothing against you, personally, of course. If 370Z is giving you so much issues, perhaps you should trade it in. I'd like to, but taking a $25,000 hit after 1 year of ownership sucks balls. I should have looked at residual, that's my fault for buying what seems like a 3rd world product. Nissan does hold it's value pretty well. My car is a 09 with 83K and I think trade in is around 16K and private party 18K. That's pretty good for a car that cost me only 33K brand new. But you're pushing my patience to the edge and you're randomly picking argument and telling 370Z enthusiasts on a 370Z forum that their 370Z sucks. Just because I am a nice guy (admin), please don't take advantage of me. Think for a second where you are and have a little respect for other 370Z enthusiasts here. I'll appreciate if you stop your constant 370Z bashing here on THE370z

Thank you.

A. Kaiser

Originally Posted by ImportConvert (Post 2616272)

I just read your last part. You probably better just drop the ban hammer, because your pet passion (the 370Z) has cost me hundreds of dollars to maintain, even under warranty, is still having random issues, and has the trade-in value of a Daewoo.It's not my pet passion. I have never asked you to buy 370z or sign up to this forum. You have done them on your own. You can not blame me for your own action. NO one forced you to buy a 370z. I respect your polite appeal to cease and desist, and I ask that you respect the fact that you being a good guy (which you come across as, and thanks for your candor), is not enough to fix thousands of dollars and countless times of being without a ride, or in some shitty electric car that I am scared will leave me stranded and with a $250 tow-bill (what they told me it would cost), or any other number of minor annoyances. I understand where you're coming from. I have dealt with shi**y dealers in past. I have driven 45 miles to get my car serviced where nearest dealer was 3 mile from home. I know it's frustrating and I don't blame you for trading it in as it DIDN't work for you. However, you can't just label the car as pos just because you had a troublesome car or your dealer is horrible. I hope you're seeing where I'm coming from. Respectfully, I WISH we could trade places, and the only 370Z issue I had was related to some guy spreading an uncomfortable truth on a forum I moderated for fun. The difference, here, between actuality and being a troll, is that I actually drive the car I am talking bad about. I have the right to say what I want, as long as it's true. of course you do. that's why the forum is here. But there's a fine line between saying "MY car is having issues" or "my car keeps breaking down" vs. "370zs are big pos:, "370zs suck" etc since as you can see the rest of the owners DO NOT share the same experience. Now, this forum is private, and you have the right to censor it,It is private and I do. If it was other admin, they would close the thread and ban the member. But I wanted to hear your story and wanted to provide you my feedback/reply of course, but I'm not going to feel bad about sharing my situation, or expressing displeasure. If I were lying, that would be one thing, but I'm just sharing and I'm not happy about it.

So put yourself in my place.

You've been polite, you've raised your voice, you've finally had to make a scene in the dealership to get your **** even somewhat fixed.

You've been lied to by the service manager. It's cost you hundreds of dollars.
See the stuff in BOLD? these are all dealer problems.

Nissan North America has told you that whining power steering is normal, and has only reimbursed you for some of your maintenance costs.Can you take a video of this whine? I think your dealer is making up stories and feeding to you. I don't even think they are calling Nissan usa. Did you sit in other 370z (member or dealer owned)to compare yours vs. their car?

I've appealed to everyone. Dealership. Nissan NA. Before that, politely the forum asking advise.

Now I'm trying to trade it in, and it's worth so much less than any domestic car of similar MSRP in similar condition.This is not true. Domestic cars loses value much worse. A brand new corvette is 60K. 1 and half year later, it's only worth 40K. Only car holds somewhat value in Domestic is Chevy. But everything else is horrible.

So what do you do? Do you just hang your head? Do you mess some lives up?Do you wanna know what I'd do? a. I'd ask the forum admin AK370Z how can I get a hold of regional dealer manager/directors. These guys are in charge of all regional dealers. I have all these guys direct numbers and emails. I call these guys and express my issue. b. I go to different Nissan dealer that will treat me right. C. I trade in and buy something else. I don't like headaches.

Well, I'm not going to mess anyone's life up over a car, and I'm also not going to just shuffle off quietly. I'm going to share the factual recount of my experiences as a cautionary tale to others every chance I get.

If you don't like it, I'm sorry 'bout that. Nothing personal, and business is business, so feel free to do what you do, because I won't take that any more personal than you should take this.

Originally Posted by dtul (Post 2616374)

To add on to he said about BMW, in terms of dealer service it will be hard to beat. The cars are very reliable and will suit your needs perfectly, especially the X5. If you do go that route consider going to Classic BMW here in Dallas. Its a few hours from you, but in my opinion very worth it. Their service departments are phenomenal and it sounds like you need a good customer experience after the **** ORR put you through. My dad's 650 had an electrical issue that no one could diagnosis properly and they just kept going at it; gave him a 650 from their lot that only had like 3000 miles on it to compensate while his was in there. Normally they would just give you a 3 series or something, but they let him use a nearly new 650 they had on the lot because no one at all could figure out what was wrong. He put close to 1000 miles on the loaner in the time it took them to fix his car and they were fine with it all in the name of keeping the customer happy due to their inability to fix a problem.

Originally Posted by AK370Z (Post 2616330)

I'm not taking it personally. I already mentioned my concern. I'm sorry that you had to go though hell. We all have done it with some cars in past. Who knows, my next car could be completely lemon. I don't have any control over it. But I'm not going to label that whole model and manufacturer as "crap". I'll just try to accept the fact that I have an unfortunate sloppy car and I'd try to get rid of it. Sometimes in life things happen like this. We have no control over it. It's all part of life. You should look into BMWs (x3 or x5) as they carry 100% maintenance free service first 4 years. Even rotors, pads and tires are included! Anything else you buy, there's no guarantee this won't happen again. I think BMW has a VERY good first 4 year maintenance plan



Feel free to pm me and we can discuss this further. Let keep this thread on topic.

Originally Posted by AK370Z (Post 2616206)

Hi,
How can do you still have 3 years/36,000 miles bumper to bumper warranty and still "tired of paying for repairs"? Anything happen during 3/36 is fixed under warranty with no questions asked. I do not understand that statement. Please elaborate

Originally Posted by Red__Zed (Post 2616537)

Warranty does not cover "wear items"

Originally Posted by ImportConvert (Post 2616417)

I've only known one other person with a BMW SUV. They had an X5, and I asked about it. They kindof shrugged. Were very neutral about it. I have heard great things about BMW service, though, but I've also heard that out of warranty, the service is pricy.

Originally Posted by ImportConvert (Post 2616422)

I agree, and would go that route in a heartbeat, or Mercedes, which I think is similar/identical re:service plans, except I am trying to keep D/I very favorable because I don't know how much I will make where I'm going, and want to not worry about cutting it close on D/I for the house.

I may well go with that after 3-5 more years, but for the intermediate future, I'd like something in the $20K +-$2500 range. That should be nice, serviceable, and last 5-7 years if it's a normal experience.

Yes, crap happens, but it's crazy that it was undiagnosable, the company threw me under the bus, etc. I mean, if my car had some issues and they sorted it out and shoot my hand and it didn't cost me anything, yeah, that's life, but that's not how I feel that it went.

Currently:

--2009-2010 Grand Jeep Cherokee V8/AWD/Limited or Overland (I like the amenities and the AWD system it uses and the 357hp V8)
--FJC (I like the looks)
--Toyota 4Runner (I have never seen one die. Never heard of one dying.)

That's kindof where I'm at.

Originally Posted by AK370Z (Post 2617886)

You and me had our ups and down over the years and at the end you are still here. I think that says something :tiphat:



.

Originally Posted by Red__Zed (Post 2617889)

Yep, it's too bad none of the truthful, unbiased threads I posted about my issues with the car survived along with me.

Originally Posted by AK370Z (Post 2617896)

Well, you decided to delete them? not me. I haven't deleted a single thread of yours. You're always welcome to pm me about anything without taking this thread off topic

http://www.the370z.com/images/370zforum/red_zed.PNG

Originally Posted by Red__Zed (Post 2617941)

That list misses most of the really fun threads I posted, like the service records for my fourth overheating rear diff, as well as the time I posted this article:

Best-Handling Car For Less Than $40,000: 370Z vs. Evo, Mustang GT, GTI, Miata, Mini JCW - Feature - Car and Driver

I'll PM you. Would love to see them reinstated as I don't believe any rules were broken.

Originally Posted by AK370Z (Post 2617886)

I know Dan. I think you missed this post: http://www.the370z.com/lounge-off-to...ml#post2616329

http://www.the370z.com/images/370zfo...and%20tear.JPG
http://www.the370z.com/images/370zfo...and%20tear.JPG

I was actually shocked how much it covered. It's actually 1990 parts that's covered. So, minus the everyday wear and tear parts (tires, breake pads/rotors, clutch etc), this Gold Preferred covers everything and this is straight from oem NIssan that literally extends that bumper to bumper coverage. If tomm my engine blows up or transmission takes a crap, I don't have to spend 1 penny. Whether dealer spends $10,000 or $20,000 dollars, I don't pay anything.

Gold preferred at a glance: https://owners.nissanusa.com/content...plans/Gold.pdf

Parts in detail that's covered (first column): http://www.vadennissanprotectionplan...chart-2013.pdf




Of course I remember! Do you remember in early 09-10 when we got a oil temp threads every other day? Every car has it's ups and downs. This forum is here to discuss it all. We welcome truthful criticism just like if not MORE than any other forum. But you have to understand there's a fine difference between truthful honest criticism vs. everyone chiming in and causing a riot. We always appreciate feedback from affected owners. We have hundreds and thousands of threads where members wrote (and write everyday) about good and bad things about the z over the years. However there's a threshold or limit how far we let a thread go to prevent drama/personal attacks etc. We don't delete threads but we lock it when it gets out of control. You can use the search feature and I'm sure you'll find hundreds of oil temps threads, brake icying threads, steering lock threads, fuel starvation threads, 6spd manual vs auto :shakes head: and many other topics. They are all there. Since this is a privately owned (me) forum (vs corporation run ie. Internet Brands or autoguide etc), it's run with limited manpower. So if I see a thread that's going out of control, I close it to review or come back to it at a later time. I have a life outside the forum, you know. You and me had our ups and down over the years and at the end you are still here. I think that says something :tiphat:




Yes they are. That's why I always tell people (those who wants peace of mind) - buy a bmw and trade it in on the 4th year for a new one and continue that cycle.



Aren't the Grand Cherokees are now benz made? I thought it was made on GL chassis? I think you'll be super happy with the grand Cherokee. Only problem is that gas mileage on the v8 :ugh2: . Toyota 4runners are GREAT too but they hold their value like crazy. So, you may not find a newer model or low mileage with the 4 runner. My recommendation will be (out of those) is FJC (FJ Cruiser, right?). If you like what it offers and as long as you like the look (IMO, appearance is it's biggest drawback), I think you can get one brand new, no? Full bumper to bumper warranty etc. There's no way you can get x3 or x5 with 20K budget.

Originally Posted by ImportConvert (Post 2618007)

The GJC now is a Benz platform, but I'm not sure about '09-'10. The 16-18 that I project with the GJC, esp. Being able to run 87 in it won't bother much much..

Originally Posted by Chuck33079 (Post 2615475)

So you could get away with one of the unibody SUVs as long as it was 4wd? Pass on the Trailblazer. My dad's was a complete POS. The Terrain I rented fell into that category too. Would a Forester have enough ground clearance for you?

The LX is a Land Cruiser. Land Cruisers cannot be killed with conventional weaponry. It's a moot point if it has to be 2009 or newer with a $20k budget, though. I never had a single issue with my Lexus. Not one. I've had less reliable hammers. :rofl2:

Originally Posted by DEpointfive0 (Post 2618014)

Yes, my family has ONLY owned Toyota and Lexus until I bought 2 Nissans in a row, and they have been MUCH worse than the Toyotas. And we beat the shít out of them. My brother's Avalon did 160k miles before he totaled it, and he did oil changes MAYBE once a year. My Avalon did 145k miles before my gf totaled it, and I jumped that car, went hunting in it, plenty of desert off roading in it, went in the snow 19-15 times too. Dad had 2 Highlanders back to back, last one had 150k miles before getting totaled, and we REALLY beat that car. It was a 2WD 4 banger, went off roading in the desert MANY, MANY times barely got oil changes, just top offs. Mom's Lexus has 80k miles, barely gets oil changes, only problems, she blew out 2 speakers (because she's a moron) and she f'd a CV boot, lol. Grandma's RX300, at 121k miles, only problem was that it killed batteries... because she'd leave the lights on, lol. Grandfather's Camry had 135k miles before they sold it last month. I don't think it ever had maintenance done because it was the family whore, everyone took it for a ride, all it needed was an alignment once. Best friend's RX300 had 279k miles before they sold it, only problem was an exhaust leak because we of roaded in it... lol. His PryUs, 147k miles when it got totaled, used maybe a quart of oil between 10,000 mile oil changes, and he beat that bítch. His dad's 2005 Toyota Tacoma is at 137k miles without, looks the same as when they bought it. 2 problems... The front mud guard tore off... You guessed it, while off roading, lol. And the other problem is that his dad burns through tires because he is the angriest driver, lol. Last (that I'm willing to type) is our family friend/co-worker's Highlander, 320k miles on it when he sold it, base model 4 banger, that only started using oil after 200k I believe, and after 300k is when it used 1 quart per 3000 miles.


Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaand done... Toyota FTW!!!

Originally Posted by DEpointfive0 (Post 2618014)

Yes, my family has ONLY owned Toyota and Lexus until I bought 2 Nissans in a row, and they have been MUCH worse than the Toyotas. And we beat the shít out of them. My brother's Avalon did 160k miles before he totaled it, and he did oil changes MAYBE once a year. My Avalon did 145k miles before my gf totaled it, and I jumped that car, went hunting in it, plenty of desert off roading in it, went in the snow 19-15 times too. Dad had 2 Highlanders back to back, last one had 150k miles before getting totaled, and we REALLY beat that car. It was a 2WD 4 banger, went off roading in the desert MANY, MANY times barely got oil changes, just top offs. Mom's Lexus has 80k miles, barely gets oil changes, only problems, she blew out 2 speakers (because she's a moron) and she f'd a CV boot, lol. Grandma's RX300, at 121k miles, only problem was that it killed batteries... because she'd leave the lights on, lol. Grandfather's Camry had 135k miles before they sold it last month. I don't think it ever had maintenance done because it was the family whore, everyone took it for a ride, all it needed was an alignment once. Best friend's RX300 had 279k miles before they sold it, only problem was an exhaust leak because we of roaded in it... lol. His PryUs, 147k miles when it got totaled, used maybe a quart of oil between 10,000 mile oil changes, and he beat that bítch. His dad's 2005 Toyota Tacoma is at 137k miles without, looks the same as when they bought it. 2 problems... The front mud guard tore off... You guessed it, while off roading, lol. And the other problem is that his dad burns through tires because he is the angriest driver, lol. Last (that I'm willing to type) is our family friend/co-worker's Highlander, 320k miles on it when he sold it, base model 4 banger, that only started using oil after 200k I believe, and after 300k is when it used 1 quart per 3000 miles.


Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaand done... Toyota FTW!!!

Originally Posted by alcheng (Post 2618464)

you guys have totaled... quite some numvers of cars... eh.. :icon17::icon17:

Originally Posted by Chuck33079 (Post 2618481)

And the other ones read like "why you don't buy used cars". :roflpuke2:

Originally Posted by alcheng (Post 2618464)

you guys have totaled... quite some numvers of cars... eh.. :icon17::icon17:

Originally Posted by Chuck33079 (Post 2618481)

And the other ones read like "why you don't buy used cars". :roflpuke2:

Originally Posted by DEpointfive0 (Post 2619151)

LMAO!!! You know what, both of my dad's Highlanders got totaled! I WAS thinking that when I wrote it, LOL

The first one happens outside our house, I was unlocking my house and I heard a car crash. A woman feel asleep and hit my dad's parked car. The second one, he t-boned someone and he had the right of way, and he drove it home even though the airbag deployed, lol. He actually drove it for a few days before I made him get a rental, lol. My gf totaled my Avalon because she was drunk. My brother totaled his because he was texting. My friend's got totaled because someone making an unprotected left went into his lane, other guy's fault.

Originally Posted by DEpointfive0 (Post 2619151)

LMAO!!! You know what, both of my dad's Highlanders got totaled! I WAS thinking that when I wrote it, LOL

The first one happens outside our house, I was unlocking my house and I heard a car crash. A woman feel asleep and hit my dad's parked car. The second one, he t-boned someone and he had the right of way, and he drove it home even though the airbag deployed, lol. He actually drove it for a few days before I made him get a rental, lol. My gf totaled my Avalon because she was drunk. My brother totaled his because he was texting. My friend's got totaled because someone making an unprotected left went into his lane, other guy's fault.

Originally Posted by alcheng (Post 2619338)

if I am having my 2nd life.....

I DON'T WANT TO BE THE VEHICLE IN YOUR FAMILY...!!!!


:icon18::icon18::icon18:

Originally Posted by alcheng (Post 2619338)

if I am having my 2nd life.....

I DON'T WANT TO BE THE VEHICLE IN YOUR FAMILY...!!!!


:icon18::icon18::icon18:

Originally Posted by mults (Post 2626441)

I've been reading this thread and have noticed that no one has mentioned a Hyundai Santa Fe (please don't laugh). I've had mine for over 10 years and have had almost no issues with it thanks to the 10/100000 warranty. Mine is an 03 with about 107000 miles and I have taken it off-road in some of the same conditions as the OP stated he wants to use his on. It performs pretty well in snow, sand, water and gets decent MPG, is comfortable on-road and I would get another one in a heartbeat.

Just my $.02 to help get the thread back on subject.

Originally Posted by mults (Post 2626441)

I've been reading this thread and have noticed that no one has mentioned a Hyundai Santa Fe (please don't laugh). I've had mine for over 10 years and have had almost no issues with it thanks to the 10/100000 warranty. Mine is an 03 with about 107000 miles and I have taken it off-road in some of the same conditions as the OP stated he wants to use his on. It performs pretty well in snow, sand, water and gets decent MPG, is comfortable on-road and I would get another one in a heartbeat.

Just my $.02 to help get the thread back on subject.