Honda Pilot or Toyota Highlander

[chelios_24]

Nice to meet all of you. In the past month I`ve become totally addicted to this website.

Anyhow, here`s the deal. What I really need is the space a mini-van but I'm still not ready to join the MINI-VAN wave. Instead, I`d like to go for a cooler looking SUV which, when needed I can fit more than just two child seats in the second row. Hence, I`m looking for a reliable 3-row equiped SUV.

My price range is low $40,000. The Honda Pilot EX-L with DVD is perfect and is my primary choice. However, this is quite an expensive purchase so before I go for it - is there anything else that comes close that I should consider?

I was thinking the TOYOTA Highlander mostly because Toyota has traditionally had as good as a reputation as Honda.

[chelios_24]

Oh, I forgot, I was also looking at the BMW X3. It`s much smaller but very nice...and perhaps a little more expensive.

I`d be going over my budget a little but would I be better off with the quality of BMW?

[The General]

The Pilot is certianly a great choice. Look into the Granite Edition (if you can still find one at about 38 000$) or wait a little and get a Pilot LX for the 2005 model year.

The Highlander is also very nice; it's basically like driving a big Camry wagon.

These trucks are both very reliable and long term ownership costs should be very reasonable.

Another choice could be the 2005 Pathfinder but reliabilty is obviously unknown. Recent Nissan products have not lived up to Nissan's old spotless reliability record.

[chelios_24]

Thanks "The General" ! It`s reassuring to see that I`m on the right track.

I was looking at the GRANITE edition, however my wife and I think we could use the DVD entertainment system so that my kids make much less of a fuss during long trips.

When I visited a HONDA dealer they informed me that the DVD system is only available witht the top of the line PILOT EX-L as an extra option which brings the price up to $46,400.

The saleman eventually got it down to $45,000.

I`m still going to think about things...I`ll probably purchase the vehicle sometime in late October - early Novemember.

They are offering me 4,000 for my CIVIC LX 1998 4-door manual.

[The General]

Sell that Civic privately! I don't know what the mileage is but you can probably still get between 6 000 and 7 000 $ if you sell it yourself.

You can post it on our site for a few bucks here:

http://www.auto123.com/en/used/advertise/

Or post it in the Forums here:

http://www.auto123.com/en/community/forum/viewforum.php?f=17&sid=d01e98a5710f2cc1a0d1e3e74519b694

[chelios_24]

My civic has about 130,000KM.

Thanks a wole bunch. I will sell it privately.

[The General]

Good luck...

And just in case, forget about the BMW... way too expensive to maintain.

[chelios_24]

Oh My God! THat`s too funny! You`re good!

Today at lunch I went to check out the BMW X5. I thought to myself, what the heck...what do I have to loose by going in and check it out. I originally started to look at the X3 but it`s too small.

Then I looked at the X5. The salesman gave me a price of $55,600 for a 2004 BMW X5. 3.0L and told me this price is due to a current promotion that have for remaining 2004 X5 and that in 3-4 weeks they`ll all be gone. I know... I know...that`s a pretty traditional sales tactic...

So basically, in the X5 I get a vehicle thats $9,000 more than the Honda PILOT but I don`t get a 3rd row seat and no DVD...but there is free maintenance for the first 3years/60,000km. Plus, I get to drive a BMW! Is BMW that much better than HONDA? Is it worth the price difference when you consider quality, depreciation, performance, etc...

I didn`t test drive it though...

Also, it`s a 36month lease versus a 48month lease. I kinda prefer 36 months.

I know my wife would love a BMW as do most women?

I think the PILOT makes more sense but I have to admit...the BMW X5 is very tempting.

[The General]

I had not realized that you were leasing. (not that it makes a difference)

A BMW is not better than a Honda. It may be more involving to drive than the Honda and better looking but the advantages end here. Since 2000, there have been a large number of problems with the X5. Even if maintenance is included, repairs will still be costly not to mention insurance costs.

Stick with the Pilot, you shant regret it...

[chelios_24]

Wow, that`s a strong statement. HOnda is not better than BMW. However, I very much appreciate your reply. Sometimes, it`s better to go with your initial feeling..which for me was always the Honda Pilot.

I`ll let you know what happens!

Thanks a bunch!

I wish this forum had a little more action cause all this car talk is very interesting.

[The General]

I wish this forum had a little more action cause all this car talk is very interesting.

We are working on it.

Keep posting good questions or comments like this one, get some friends to join you and, in time, this place will be on fire. :thumb:

[chelios_24]

I hope I`m not annoying you but...well..here I go again.

Basically from my list of SUVS to choose from - I`ve eliminated BMW X5 and Highlander cause I haven`t heard anyting good about the X5 and the Highlander doesn`t appeal to me.

So just when I thought that the HONDA PILOT was the winner I started snooping around and discovered the world of LEXUS.

The RX330 is a beautiful looking SUV. It`sa little more expensive by $3,000 but considering the resale value I think it`s worth the price increase. Also, LEXUS warranty is 4 years as opposed to Honda`s 3yr.

So GENERAL, am I going into the wrong path? What do you think of the LEXUS. I`m sure I can get a 2004 at a discounted price.

[The General]

No, your still on the right path. In the case of Lexus pricing though, I believe that the prices are very difficult to negociate. Also, there are no changes for the RX330 2005... so I don't think that dealers will get "stuck" with the 2004s.

The warranty issue is a valid point but if you were getting an X5 or an Envoy I'd even suggest to you purchase an extended one. In the case of the Pilot, theoretically, nothing should fail prematurely.

You ask about the resale value, why? Are you not leasing?

[chelios_24]

Yeah I`m leasing...cause I will be consulting as an independent employee and I will be able to deduct the monthly payments from my income. It`s a lot easier with a lease.

However, I should have said LONG-TEM resale value. The objective is to lease the vehicle until the end..to take advantage of the tax deductions and then purchase it and it will become my wife`s car.

I know in the case of the LEXUS the buy back should be more but I`m thinking in terms of 6-7 years down the road.

I just saw one on the road. It`s so beautiful, very detailed...a lot nicer and cooler looking than the Honda Pilot - but I have this loyal feeling towards Honda. I feel like I`d be cheating on my girlfriend or something if I didn`t buy another Honda.

LOL! I know that`s pretty dumb!

:)

[The General]

I understand how you feel... I drive VWs and if I bought a Subaru...

And now I understand what you're doing. Really, in the end, whichever you can afford and the one you prefer will be the right way to go. You can't really go wrong either way.

[chelios_24]

:)

Well, I hope you don`t mind continuing the discussion..but...

Yesterday I went to a Toyota/Lexus dealer. I first looked at the RX330. Like I imagined it was beautiful..but it`s got one huge flaw. The freaken blind spot is horrible. It`s got a kinda katchback design...so the back window is very small and when you check your blind spot it`s like checking a blind spot on an ACURA RSX... You can`t see anything!!!

So, scratch LEXUS off the list..

Then, I went and look at the HIGHLANDER again and you know what..it`s smaller than the PILOT but something happened to me yesterday..I don`t know what...that made me like it again. It`s classy looking and the inside is nicer than the PILOT...cause the Transmission stick is placed near the arm rest as apposed to the PILOT which is next to the steering wheel.

The best part is that Toyota is waiving the security depost of $600 and paying for the first 3 payments...plus they`re offering 2.9% rate on leasing..by far the best among all JAPANESE SUVs.

This was totally unpredictable but suddenly I`m thinking more towards to Highlander. Isn`t that crazy!

Honda is great..but they don`t give anything away..I`m still going to call the Honda salesman and ask if he can waive the security deposit and first 3 payments!

I`ll let you know what happens.

[The General]

Go get that salesman!!

I don`t remember about the blind spot in the RX330. What I do remember is that the one I tested had the rear-view camera...

Good luck!

[chelios_24]

Thanks!

This has been fun...I`m almost sure I`m going with the Highlander!

WOw, my first TOYOTA ever!

[The General]

Probably won`t be your last... :wink:

[chelios_24]

:? Okay...and so it goes..and so it goess...and this is the way it`s going!

Went to one Toyota dealer..and they have hardly any colours left. They said this was throughout all of Quebec. Then, I went to another Toyota dealer and they had no problem giving me the Highlander I wanted with the right colour. Go figure!

Meanwhile I called my Honda Salesman. He was happy to speak to me and sounded all friendly and joking! THen, I told him that I`m close to buying a Highlander. I told him I`m going for a Highlander because they`re waiving the security deposit and paying the 1st 3 payments.

Suddenly he puts on his serious voice! HE`s says Carmine come and see me. I`ll try to do something but you have to come and see me. Then, I say Bruno, if I come and see you I`m not guranteeing I can sign right then and there. He said, well Carmine, if you come and see me, I`ll work for you but you have to be serious! I said, Okay..I am serious but I`m not going to be pushed or pressured. He said! Come and see me.


...To be continued...

[The General]

Make sure that if he makes you a price or some kind of deal that you get a final writen date from him. If he can't give you a date, he's going to jerk you around as long as he can. If he does give you a date, and that this day goes by with no delivery, then you will be able to walk away problem free because he's the one that will not have been serious about the transaction.

[chelios_24]

okay. Thanks!

[chelios_24]

Okay. I went with my wife to see the HIGHLANDER and she likes it. So did my little 2yr old. He cried when we took him out of the seat..he kept saying CAMION ...CAMION!!! SO cute.

SO, I gave the salesman a hand shake agreement that I`m buying it but it has to be 7 passengers, 3.3L V6, AWD with OPTION B..which includes letather seats. IT has to be SILVER..

He said he had one left during the day but since it was after 5:00pm there was no way of knowing 100% sure if it was still available. So, now I`m waiting...waiting..should call me at noon today and let me know if it`s still available and if it is...IT`s MINE!

3 first payments free, no security deposit and interest rate on a 48month lease is 2.9%.

It`s price is $43,000 not able to negotiate down since there is hardly any supply of 2004s left. Payments are $650 a month including taxes with no downpayment and nothing to pay until january!

[The General]

Sounds like a good deal...

But remember what I wrote before about delivery and a date.

Here's some more good luck!

[chelios_24]

Oh..a big deciding factor was insurance costs:
PILOT: $1,918 annual
Highlander: $1,436 annual and this was for the limited..so it will be even less.

[chelios_24]

Well I hear what you`re saying. Basically, give them a date where my contract would expire if I don`t get my car delivered by that date? RIGHT?

Well, it`s not a problem for me since I still have my civic and will probably have both my new Highlander and the CIvic for a few weeks,,maybe even a month by the time I fix the little problems and sell it. So actually the later I get delivery it`s almost better...cause my consulting contract only starts in January..

I had to rush to get the last 2004 Highlanders. There's only 5 passengers and base models left. 2005 has an interest rate of 7% and you must pay security deposits and start paying right away.

[The General]

Exactly. You control the situation, not the other way around.

[chelios_24]

Okay well, I signed a preliminary contract and the financial information required for them to process a credit check on me.

THe contract states the exact colour, model and details as well as the delivery date.

I`m just worried cause I went to two other Toyota dealers and they could NOT get the Highlander V? AWD, 7-passengers with Opion B in SILVER...and then this one dealer could!

I asked why and they said they are one of the biggest Toyota dealers in Montreal...actually they are pretty big and I can remember that dealership since I was a kid...they`ve been there at least 20 years..

They said they are big and have a lot of cars and a lot of dealers call them and take their cars so many other dealers owe them lots of favours...

I guess if they said they`ll have my color they will...but in the back of my mind I`ll believe it when I see it.

Then, the finance lady is trying to convince me to take their "Valeur a neuf" or in english "Replacement warranty". She said that Toyota's replacement warranty covers me for the duration of the entire lease..48 months. Meaning if in 2007 my Highlander gets totalled or stolen and is declared a total loss they give me a new 2007 Highlander without even paying a cent. Where as my insurance will only give me this the first year at about 8% to 12% of the prime...the second year...16% to 22% of the prime and then the 3rd and 4th insurance companies can charge up to 40% of the prime.

What I don`t like about Replacement warranty is that if I buyout my lease before the 48 months and sell it to someone else I lose the money I put in for the replacement warranty.

I need your advice. What should I do? I will call my insurance and ask them these questions this morning when they open.

[The General]

Which dealer is this?

In the case of a lease, purchasing a replacement warranty is a waste of money. You are covered by gap insurance (Consumer Protection Act section 15X.X) that basically says that the dealer/merchant/person leasing the vehicle assumes all risks of loss (if it's not your fault...)

Even if you have this coverage, you'll probably (if it gets stolen or is a write off) have to start the lease all over again or if you had 14 months left, have to start a 24 month lease for example... this coverage COULD be good if you bought the car.

I've seen tons of bad stories about people getting screwed with these policies.

I wouldn't bother. Save your cash.

[chelios_24]

I called my insurance and it costs less to get replacement warranty.
Cool! Thanks for the advice. IT`s re-assuring!

Well, I`ll let you know when I get the vehicle if it`s indeed Silver and how everything else went. Delivery is Sept 30, 2004.

I`m pretty happy!

[chelios_24]

Guess what!

Remember when I bought the Highlander I said I`ll believe it when I see it if they have the color I wanted...well...after signing my prelminary contract last week...yesterday the salesman called me back and told me that the vehicle they saw on the computer as being silver was instead BLUE INDIGO and there are no other colors available for a 2004 Toyota Highlander. I gave them a $500 deposit and today I will go get it back..

So, so much for getting my first TOyota. THe 2005s are way too expensive.

So, back to HONDA and/or Acura. Toyota wasn`t meant to be. So, once I get my money back I`m going to visit both an Acura dealer and a Honda dealer.

Last night, depressed caused of my whole highlander experience, I started looking at my ACURA MDX brochure...it`s more expensive than the Honda Pilot but it is a lot nicer looking and you do get more with it...well...more GOODIES I should say. It`s all unnecessary but nevertheless when you`re spending that much money, you want your vehicle to look good so that you`re happy for a long time.

So, what do you think of the ACURA MDX? I`m going to put my cowboy hat on and give these salesman an offer. I`m thinking for a 2004 Acura MDX, come January it will already be worth 20% less due to depreciation so is that a realistic figure to try and get the dealer to discount the price and/or leasing cost? Maybe 20% is high..but is anywhere between 10% to 15% off the price realistic?

The same applies to the Honda Pilot. SO again, what do you think of the ACURA MDX?

[The General]

I KNEW IT!! When no one else can delivery and someone tells you that they can... its gotta be B.S.!

I'd really like to know which dealer this is. If you don't want everyone to know, send me a private message.

I love the MDX. As far as luxury SUVs are concerned, I think it's the best bang for the buck. I went to N.Y. with one earlier this year and it was great: smooth, quiet, powerfull, blingnin', and reliable to boot!

Get it :nice:

[chelios_24]

Toyota St. Leonard.

(514) 253-8696

I knew it too. Freak!`

So the 4000 or 5000 more for the ACURA vs the Honda is worth it. It`s a lot nicer too. Okay, thanks man! You`re the best. You`ve guided me throughout this whole process. I`ll update you later today and tell you what happens.

[chelios_24]

The ACura is freaken expensive. I can get the secrity deposit waived and the first two payments free. With zero down....48month lease...the monthly payments are $836 included taxes.

The same conditions for the PILOT should be around $720 a month.

I know it`s only a 100 dollar difference roughly but that`s getting very high!

[The General]

You'll love your MDX for the next 12 years...

It'll be worth it. You'll be driving some much more "substance".

Oh, and, that name could have come up in my first 3 guesses... 8)

[chelios_24]

Ahhhh! Don`t say that..Now I`m tempted...shooot!!!!!
I need a smoke!

[The General]

You're tempting me...

:nono:

[chelios_24]

You know what! What about a slightly used ACURA MDX?

[The General]

An excellent idea! Have it inspected, test drive it. It could be a great choice.

I would not lease it though unless you get an extended ACURA warranty and get the truck from an ACURA dealer.

You don't want to be stuck paying for something that may have problems, that is not covered by a warranty and that you HAVE to assume maintenace on.

Tread carefully.

Use our search engine to give you an idea of what's out there:

http://www.auto123.com/en/used/search/

[chelios_24]

Thank god for the Internet!
Well, A used ACURA MDX is not worth it. The interest rates are like 7% to 8%. Even though they are selling 2004 MDXs for as low as $39,000 payments are going into the $900.00

[chelios_24]

Well my good friend. The inevitable is happening. The PILOT! I`ll get the wood trim package to make a look a little bit better.

[The General]

It is probably, out of all of this, the wisest decision... :thumbsup:

[chelios_24]

And it only took 33 posts. This whole thread is a good example of all the emotions that someone goes through when buying a car.

I`m leaving work soon...first to go to TOYOTA and get my money back..and then...to HONDA.

I`ll let you know what happens. THANKS A MILLION. You`re awsome!

[The General]

You are very welcomed!

Even if it would have take 256 825 posts, so what! This is fun.

[chelios_24]

Good Morning!

Getting back my $500 deposit from Toyota
So I go there at 11:30am yesterday and they tell me that the manager has to give me back my deposit cause he`s the only one who can sign the REFUND form. He only starts at 12:30pm. I`m like okay.

So I go back at 12:30pm and the mananger meets me. He tells me they`re very sorry about the 2004...and they shows me some figures on purchasing a 2004 Highlander. My original lease payment was 650 and he says on a finance purchase of 84 months you can a brand new 2005 Highlander for 768 a month tax included. So I pretend to be very interested and say that`s great...and the great part is that I can take my time since you have plenty of 2005s so for now I`ll take my deposit back. I told him that I would continue to communicate and possbily in November I would come back and explore that option. All happy to hear that, he was very happy to give me back my deposit. So off I go to the HODNA Dealer.

HONDA PILOT
So I go to the HOnda dealer (i.e. Excel Honda loacted on Jean-Talon street off Decare south highway). I originally went there 3 years ago cause the assistant manager was the brother of a very good friend of my dads and my family. His name is Bruno.

I see my salesman - his name is Antonio (everybody is Italian..me included heheheh!) I bought my USED civic from him 3 years ago but now he`s selling new cars. SO he greets me...I ask about all the demos that I noticed in the showroom since they all looked really good - loaded with all kinds of extra accessories. Antonio says, listen I talked to BRUNO and told him that you were coming and that before we agree on anything he wants to look at what we`re doing. He kinda game me this look like BRUNO wants to make sure I don`t get screwed or anything. He says BRUNO suggested going for a 2005. TO be honest, there are no more 2004 PILOTS EX-L. Only granite. I can always search and maybe we find one...but you`re still better off with a 2005 cause the buy back is higher and the monthly payments will be lower.

So I said anything changed in the 2005. He said there are more colors and the EX-L comes with a MOON ROOF and a 6-in dash CD changer.

Yada yada yada, the sticker price is aroun $45,325 and with no down payment it comes out to $755 a month. Yada Yada yada, Antonio says to me, why don`t you just come up with an offer and I`ll go see with BRUNO (who at this point I noticed is extremely busy being paged left and right).

So I said, Okay. Here it is...$725 tax in. a month with ZERO down but Excel Honda pays for my first two payments. Antonio says, Wow, that`s low..you`re basically asking for $3500 off the price of the vehicle. I`ll go see Bruno but I`m sure he won`t accept it.

After 30 minutes...no joke...He comes back...Antonio says...you know Carmine...it`s a good thing you come here cause BRUNO is taking care of you...look at this...he shows me a peace of paper with $698 a month but no freebies. I said, WOW. That`s nice..Bruno is also able to waive the security deposit. So then I`m like ...what can I say...so then...I said but wait...can you take the first two months so that I don`t pay and adjust it accordingly with the next 46 payments. Another 10 minutes go by...and they say.


Okay. Purchase price of the vehicle is $42,100 and your payments are $724.43 X 48 and we give you a check for the first two payments ..no security deposit. I chose the color CHARCOAL..and I didn`t purchase any of the crap the finance dude tries to sell you.

So, what do you think

WINNERS: Honda Pilot, Honda Excel, me
Losers: Toyota and Toyota Highllander and Toyota St. leonard.

[The General]

You done did good for yourself.

I'm very impressed with your negotiating skills. You should teach classes...

Enjoy the Pilot, you'll love it.

[chelios_24]

Thanks a lot buddy! I appreciate all the advice you gave me. Thaks for the nice words as well. After buying a few cars and learning from my mistakes I`ve finally done it right. I hope!!!! : )

Now I need to sell my CIVIC LX - 4 door

I`m asking $7,299 , Manual, Base modal, AM/FM radio with 135,000km. I`ve kept it in good shape. I did a tune-up of $650 this spring and the car still rides like new. This car is cheap to own.

I see similiar cars advertised for more. A while back some dealers were offereing $4000 - $4500

You think my asking price is okay? I`ve advertised on this site and today I placed an ad on La Presse.

Anyhow, this was fun but just because my purchase is done doesn`t mean I`ll stop posting. I love this site.

[woohoo!]

OK General, now that you've taken care of Chelios' case, I got an '86 Corolla I was looking to switch... ;-)

I spotted a very nice $350 Buick Skylark on Auto123... think it's worth it? It's got cloth seats with holes in it, but it can be considered "perforated seating surfaces"; hey it works when it's leather, why not cloth??

Also, I set my eyes on a $350 '90 Protege. It looks like it was sideswiped by a dump truck and hammered out. Think I should get it inspected?

Heehee. Good luck with your new Pilot, Chelios.

[The General]

Ah le Joker!

I say buy both of them. Cut them both down the middle and weld opposite front and backs together. That way you'll have a Skylegé and a Protark. Sell the one you don't want for 50 000$ ('cause it's unique of course) and take the kids to Disney Land for a month.

How that buddy? :lol: :wink:

[chelios_24]

Hey Wohoo. Thanks for the good luck.

If I were you I would stick to the 86 Carolla. Those cars you mention look like you would be buying a sh_it-load of problems full of surprises. You`ll probably be wasting your money.

With the Corolla...at least you know the car...and shouldn`t get too many surprises. Instead of shopping for a car...you should shop for an honest and cheap mecanique..and buy your parts and scrap yards.

If you live in Laval I could refer you to some good honest mecaniques.

[chelios_24]

hey General.
My PILOT`s case isn`t done yet.

Check this out. I chose the color Slate Grey Pearl..cause I thought it would be charcoal. That`s what it looked like on the pamphlet and on the sample they had. Then, the other day I see a PILOT go buy. From far, it was nice...it was dark grey...but then as I got close to it...my wife says...honey...you chose GREEN! Then, the look on my face went from happy to total concern...While I`m driving I looked closer...MAMA MIA! I freaked...it looked like it had a touch of green tint in it.

Man oh man! After all that process...I`m going to be stuck with a green freaken SUV. Slighlty green.

The dealer is trying to find me a silver. They said, they have to find the SILVER within 3 days..so that they can deliver the SUV to me on time to meet the deadline for the promotion (i.e. interest rate of 5.9%)

So, now I`m waiting, if they don`t find the SILVER ..then I`m stuck with Slate Grey Pearl.

Have you ever seen that color? Am I just freaking out for nothing! Dio mio!
If you go to the HONDA website..the colors aren`t clear...so bascially I have no freaken idea of what color I chose. STUPID ME!

:(

[The General]

Slate is not so bad. You're right though. The website is not clear at all.

http://www.honda.ca/Personalise/HondaEng/images/2005/Pilot/Pilot_Slate_Grey_Pearl_EX-L.jpg

It's not really green.

[chelios_24]

I know. It`s not really green..and it`s not really grey...what the heck is it.

Oh well, I should just be happy. I'm gonna have a PILOT.

The ACURA MDX has that color too and on that website it looks more CHARCOAL...rather more dark silver than GREEN but I`ve been surfing the entire interent...and I found out that the same color in the USA is called SAGA BRUSH.

I`ve seen certain pics and on the sunight you see the green and on a cloudy day you see charcoal.

I still am gonna try for SILVER.

[chelios_24]

YUPPI!

I GOT THE SILVER!!!!! :P :D :)

[The General]

Now you're gonna be completly happy!

Good :D

[chelios_24]

Oh yeah! Hey How do you past pictures in this forum.

I want to show you some pics when I get it...not that you don`t know what it looks like...but just to end this chapter properly!

I`m so HAPPY!

Apparently, the SILVER has changed too.
2004- Starlight Silver Metalic
2005 - Billet SIlver metalic

the Billet is just a little darker..which is exactly what I wanted.

MAMA MIA! Pizza for everyone!

[The General]

When you post a reply or start a topic, just below the subject, there is a list of options:

B i u Quote Code List List= Img URL

Before you put the URL of the pic, click on Img, then paste the URL, then click on IMG again et voilà!

All have meat lovers! :wink:

[chelios_24]

here you go..here's the entire thread. AN excellent dialogue between myself and General.

General gave me great advice and guided me through the whole process.

[The General]

Thank you for the kind words Chelios_24.

You're gonna make cry... :oeil:

[woohoo!]

No... no, you gonna cry AGAIN?? Geez... you gotta check your oestrogen level... :banana:

[The General]

My oestrogen level is fine! Thank You!!!

[chelios_24]

LOL!

For SUVs that drive like a car for a price that is worth it...there really is only two choices.

I hope he reads this thread.

[CANNON]

THANKS A WHOLE BUNCH GUYS!!!!

The price of the Pilot is a little higher then that of the Nissan but I guess I will be getting a much more reliable vehicle.
Don't expect to have much haggling power unfortunately, looking at buying in the next month. Don't expect to see any remaining 2004's at that time. Will just have to hit a couple of different dealerships and see which one is more hungry for a sale.

Wish me luck!

Joe.

[neseh]

:lol: :D What a process for getting a new vehicles! I've read all the post in this topic, it fun and educational> Well done guys!
chelios, ENJOY your new Pilot!
I have no idea until I talked to you guys that there are so many tricks you should know. like getting a better deal :D
So far, I have gone through Accord and Camry. They all said they do not dicount at all. Whatever the MSRP is, that will be price. No diffirence if you finance it or purchase in cash. Could it be true?
Give me some advise, thanks!
Is there so called best time to buy a new car? like end of 2005, would it be cheaper for 2005 model cause the manufacture is goona introducing next year model?
Sorry to make this thread extendid! :oops:

[woohoo!]

Since Camry and Accord are strong sellers, don't except cash rebates from them. They probably don't have much stock at the end of the model year to give out year-end rebates, either.

What you can do, in my opinion, is check out the interest rates, and right now they're pretty low for the Accord, a little higher for the Camry.

Manufacturers see sales slumps after christmas, since no one has any money left and it is in the dead of winter. Once spring comes, when the snow melts, the flowers bloom, and woman trade their ski-doo suits for short skirts, people flock out to the showrooms again.

[neseh]

:( I do not really want to wait until Christmas unless it's going a lot cheaper, which I doubt it.
I asked Honda dealer that the finance rate is 2.95. It is a good rate. Slightly better than Camry. I might just go with it. The only thing still makes going back and forth is the look. I knew it is totally a personal taste issue, but do you guys think Camry is beeter looking than Accord?
I am just not 100% sold on the rear look of Accord.
Oh, man, it is driving me nuts!

[woohoo!]

I prefer the styling of the Camry, it looks a little more classy and sophisticated than the Accord. The Honda is not bad looking, either.

The Accord has a sportier ride, so I guess I would have to go with the Accord myself.

And, while you're driving it, you can't see the rear end of the car. heehee

I think now's a great time to buy an Accord. A low interest rate and $1500 in free accessories.

[chelios_24]

Personally. I find the CAMRY a really boring looking car..but that`s just me.

THe Accord stands out. I might even buy an ACCORD myself.

Are you in Montreal? If you are...Ì know a lot of salesman...let me know.

If you are leasing...the best thing to do is get the newest modal possible so that the buyback is highest and your monthly payments are lowest...compliment that with a good interest rate..and you`re in good shape.

If you`re financing...try to get a 2004...but with honda...forgettaaaboutit...and if you`re buying used...my god..the interest rates just kill you...so you`re just better off with a newest modal.

When to buy...now....or after the summer...but buying a 2005 in the fall ...you MUST get a rebate off the MSRP..and not on the monthly payment. But..in the fall...you can get a 2006...cause the buy back is so high your monthly payment will be at it`s lowest...but make sure the interest rate is okay.

How to get a good deal...everynight...go to different dealers...different makes......look interesting but look informed...then stay away from that dealer...don`t return calls....for a couple of weeks....then go back....and then back off... Play with salesman...

oh....and buy at the end of the month...like the 28 or 29th...salesman always want to make that last sale...and if they`ve had a bad month...they`ll be more willing to negotiate.

Honda and Toyota can negotiate...don`t worry..it`s complete bull...when they say they have no haggle pricing...it`s acutally illegal....and toyota is starting to give it up.

[neseh]

thanks a million guys! I am in Vancouver. So far I tried 2 honda dealers only. They still have the $1500 option no charge, and I hope the deal will still go on next month. Cause I can not but the car until my tax return get back. What I am planing is putting 2/3 down, maybe even lille more and finace rest of it. The DX including taxed willl be around 31,000. But right now is real good time to. You can get the LX-G in the same price of DX. Very attempting. Do you think in next month or 2, I can still get this deal?( if they stop offering the $1500 on charge option) Or I need to wait some time. say this fall and get 2005 DX (considered old model)
man! it's tough!

[chelios_24]

I still think March is good...don`t let the salesman scare you into buying this month...they always try that tactic.

In my opinion...it`s around April-May...when buyers are more anxious to change their cars and dealers know this and oftenly offer less promotions.

NASEH! You mean to tell me you`re going to pay 66.6666% of your car CASH! :shock:

[neseh]

YES, I'D LIKE TO PAY THAT MUCH! I'VE WORKED SO DANM HARD FOR THIS CAR :D ,, AND I DO NOT WANT TO PAY TOO MCUH INTEREST TO THE BANK. I STILL HAVE MY OLD CAR TO DRIVE, SO IT IS NOT THE END OF THE WORLD THAT I WAIT FOR ANOTHER COUPLE OF MONTH!
I JUST WANT TO MAKE SURE IT'S THE RIGHT CHOICE, AND SO FAR I WAS CONVISED THAT ACCORD IS THE BEST CHOICE.
SO I JUST NEED TO WAIT FOR THE RIGHT TIME :wink:

[chelios_24]

Yeah...with the Accord you can`t go wrong.

I don`t want to be your financial adviser...but isn`t it a pity to put hard worked cash on a car. Even though it`s a HONDA ACCORd..it`s still going to depreciate..and you`re still going to lose 15% to 20% value (of your money) after 1 year.

Man, I said I didn`t want to pry but I`m doing it...SORRY I Can`t help it....

...you should just talk to a financial adviser and ask them for what the best thing to do is...cause you have 66.666% of say $30,000 that comes out to $20,000 ...that is good money that you could invest... it`s very hard to come up with that kind of cash. YOu could make a lot more money by investing than the interest savings if you would save by paying 2/3 of your car cash....


Interest rates are low right now..on the accord...3.9%. ...so you`re not going to pay that much interest. My rule of thumb or the objective is...try to get the car with the least amount of money put down....like zero down..and just montly payments. A car is not an investment...no matter how good it is...it`s just going to lose value no matter what.

That`s what a lease basically does. Your montly payment is more or less the monthly depreciation of your car. At the end of a lease...the buyback is pretty much the wholesale value that`s left of your car. The dealer can sell it for retail value..but as a private owner you won`t be able to sell it for retail...so think really hard about paying cash. Even people who are millionares don`t pay cash for their cars.

Okay...that`s the last time I pry into your finances. Again, I`m sorry...but I just had to tell you my opinion.

If you`re buying...trying to find a 2004 or slightly used...even a 2003. On a Honda 30,000km on the odometer is nothing. oh...and remember...if you`re purchase financing...usually the rates are horible and muc higher than a lease. Talk to a financial adviser. I`m worried for your $20,000.

[woohoo!]

Right. If the interest rate is low, like 2.9 or 3.9 on the Accord, why put a huge cash down?

Put 0 down, and take your cash and invest it at more than 4%.

By the way, the Accord has $1,500 in no-charge accessories right now, but if you read the promo carefully, it says "freight and P.D.I. EXTRA"... usually Hondas have this included in their payment options. Freight charges for an Accord is $1,180...

So, in reality, $300 savings, not $1,500.

[neseh]

Not at all! I really appreciated your guys advises. I know that is not very smart idea that putting this much down on a car, but here is my question:
If i want to own this car at least 10 years, and I currently have no better plan to invest it, should i put this money on the car? If you save money in the bank, you will get absoutly nothing from the interests, right? What eles you can invest in, stock market? now? RRSP? Because I do not use it, i will be pretty much still putting it in the bank and get 2.5% interest. Why do i pay 2.9% interest for financing the car? I just do not know what to do, I am open to any suggestion :?:
Or I should put this money in the downpayment of house?

[chelios_24]

Buy real estate...if you can`t buy real estate then buy a peace of land. Get togehter with someone close to you and buy some type of real estate. It`s the safest and most profitable investment you can make.

If you have a house...re-mortgage a part of it..add it to your $20,000 and buy another...with a trusted partner if you have to.


Otherwise - talk to your bank.

Just don`t put cash on a car. That`s the worst.

[neseh]

Thank you Chelios!
I've been thinking hard on that one. Sounds better that I put money into the mortgage, and finance the car.
Cause Honda accord financing rate is currently 2.9%, which is much lower than my mortgage rate next year. :D

[brioboy]

Man! - this is all ancient history! I don't know why anybody would even consider a BMW or Mercedes - they are expensive crap! For Whistler driving I must have a AWD and my choice was between a Subaru Outback (and I still have 2 of the 4 Subarus I have owned) and a Toyota Highlander Hybrid for about the same price and it was a slam dunk! My wife loved the driving position of the Highlander, as well as the incredible power, and I loved the the "going green" and the tax rebates, both BC and Federal. Now, the only problem is the friggin Feds, who have not come through with their promised rebate programme, think Budget 2007 announced 20 March 2007, and here it is more than 5 months later, I can't even get an application form let alone get my promised rebate. Anyhow, hard to beat the quality of the Toyota Highlander - truly, a great vehicle, as good as a Lexus, forget about the nameplate.