Best smoker barges 1-5 large [Vol 15]
Discussion
cat220 said:
CharlesdeGaulle said:
rider73 said:
errr am i right in thinking the LS460 (and persumable other 4's) and 600's DO NOT have folding rear seat or "ski hatch"?
how does one get ikea furniture home?
You're right. It's one of the few major drawbacks to 430 ownership in my view. You can get lots in because the cabin and boot are pretty cavernous, but long loads are a problem.how does one get ikea furniture home?
CharlesdeGaulle said:
rider73 said:
errr am i right in thinking the LS460 (and persumable other 4's) and 600's DO NOT have folding rear seat or "ski hatch"?
how does one get ikea furniture home?
You're right. It's one of the few major drawbacks to 430 ownership in my view. You can get lots in because the cabin and boot are pretty cavernous, but long loads are a problem.how does one get ikea furniture home?
I am wondering if I have done the right thing.
I got carried away when the amazing family battle barge, a 2003 Volvo XC90 D5 with 160kish miles on the clock, went into my friend's garage to have the second ABS reluctor ring in a year replaced - occasionally if goes into limp mode due to a suspected stick variable-vane turbo, and there is a graunching noise at low speed on full lock.
I am now in up to the elbow - £950 with a new battery, new MAF sensor, all new engine mounts, a cleaned turbo and a new reluctor ring.
It is probably worth £2- 2500 tops but I couldn't help myself as it is such a great large family wagon, and it gets such a battering that spending £10-£15k on a newer Mk1 XC90, which is the only possible replacement as far as I can tell, seems excessive, especially when the newer ones are less economical and supposedly less reliable thanks to emissions gubbins.
If the mechanical bits are all sorted, I just don't see the point of shiny unblemished interior or paintwork, yet at such a high mileage and low value, a lunched gearbox or diff probably means the scrapyard. I feel like I am in that awkward place where having spent so much on an old car it becomes even harder to decide when to let go.
To make myself feel better, I am telling myself that even a newer one could have an expensive issue.
I got carried away when the amazing family battle barge, a 2003 Volvo XC90 D5 with 160kish miles on the clock, went into my friend's garage to have the second ABS reluctor ring in a year replaced - occasionally if goes into limp mode due to a suspected stick variable-vane turbo, and there is a graunching noise at low speed on full lock.
I am now in up to the elbow - £950 with a new battery, new MAF sensor, all new engine mounts, a cleaned turbo and a new reluctor ring.
It is probably worth £2- 2500 tops but I couldn't help myself as it is such a great large family wagon, and it gets such a battering that spending £10-£15k on a newer Mk1 XC90, which is the only possible replacement as far as I can tell, seems excessive, especially when the newer ones are less economical and supposedly less reliable thanks to emissions gubbins.
If the mechanical bits are all sorted, I just don't see the point of shiny unblemished interior or paintwork, yet at such a high mileage and low value, a lunched gearbox or diff probably means the scrapyard. I feel like I am in that awkward place where having spent so much on an old car it becomes even harder to decide when to let go.
To make myself feel better, I am telling myself that even a newer one could have an expensive issue.
Emeye said:
I am wondering if I have done the right thing.
I got carried away when the amazing family battle barge, a 2003 Volvo XC90 D5 with 160kish miles on the clock, went into my friend's garage to have the second ABS reluctor ring in a year replaced - occasionally if goes into limp mode due to a suspected stick variable-vane turbo, and there is a graunching noise at low speed on full lock.
I am now in up to the elbow - £950 with a new battery, new MAF sensor, all new engine mounts, a cleaned turbo and a new reluctor ring.
It is probably worth £2- 2500 tops but I couldn't help myself as it is such a great large family wagon, and it gets such a battering that spending £10-£15k on a newer Mk1 XC90, which is the only possible replacement as far as I can tell, seems excessive, especially when the newer ones are less economical and supposedly less reliable thanks to emissions gubbins.
If the mechanical bits are all sorted, I just don't see the point of shiny unblemished interior or paintwork, yet at such a high mileage and low value, a lunched gearbox or diff probably means the scrapyard. I feel like I am in that awkward place where having spent so much on an old car it becomes even harder to decide when to let go.
To make myself feel better, I am telling myself that even a newer one could have an expensive issue.
Given the value of them now, if yours sI got carried away when the amazing family battle barge, a 2003 Volvo XC90 D5 with 160kish miles on the clock, went into my friend's garage to have the second ABS reluctor ring in a year replaced - occasionally if goes into limp mode due to a suspected stick variable-vane turbo, and there is a graunching noise at low speed on full lock.
I am now in up to the elbow - £950 with a new battery, new MAF sensor, all new engine mounts, a cleaned turbo and a new reluctor ring.
It is probably worth £2- 2500 tops but I couldn't help myself as it is such a great large family wagon, and it gets such a battering that spending £10-£15k on a newer Mk1 XC90, which is the only possible replacement as far as I can tell, seems excessive, especially when the newer ones are less economical and supposedly less reliable thanks to emissions gubbins.
If the mechanical bits are all sorted, I just don't see the point of shiny unblemished interior or paintwork, yet at such a high mileage and low value, a lunched gearbox or diff probably means the scrapyard. I feel like I am in that awkward place where having spent so much on an old car it becomes even harder to decide when to let go.
To make myself feel better, I am telling myself that even a newer one could have an expensive issue.
ts itself in a big way, the lowest risk:cost ratio may be to simply buy another old sheddy one for very little outlay. It might st itself in turn in a month or two, in which case 'bugger', or you may get some happy years out of it.Emeye said:
I am wondering if I have done the right thing.
I got carried away when the amazing family battle barge, a 2003 Volvo XC90 D5 with 160kish miles on the clock, went into my friend's garage to have the second ABS reluctor ring in a year replaced - occasionally if goes into limp mode due to a suspected stick variable-vane turbo, and there is a graunching noise at low speed on full lock.
I am now in up to the elbow - £950 with a new battery, new MAF sensor, all new engine mounts, a cleaned turbo and a new reluctor ring.
It is probably worth £2- 2500 tops but I couldn't help myself as it is such a great large family wagon, and it gets such a battering that spending £10-£15k on a newer Mk1 XC90, which is the only possible replacement as far as I can tell, seems excessive, especially when the newer ones are less economical and supposedly less reliable thanks to emissions gubbins.
If the mechanical bits are all sorted, I just don't see the point of shiny unblemished interior or paintwork, yet at such a high mileage and low value, a lunched gearbox or diff probably means the scrapyard. I feel like I am in that awkward place where having spent so much on an old car it becomes even harder to decide when to let go.
To make myself feel better, I am telling myself that even a newer one could have an expensive issue.
Better the devil you know. Sometimes.I got carried away when the amazing family battle barge, a 2003 Volvo XC90 D5 with 160kish miles on the clock, went into my friend's garage to have the second ABS reluctor ring in a year replaced - occasionally if goes into limp mode due to a suspected stick variable-vane turbo, and there is a graunching noise at low speed on full lock.
I am now in up to the elbow - £950 with a new battery, new MAF sensor, all new engine mounts, a cleaned turbo and a new reluctor ring.
It is probably worth £2- 2500 tops but I couldn't help myself as it is such a great large family wagon, and it gets such a battering that spending £10-£15k on a newer Mk1 XC90, which is the only possible replacement as far as I can tell, seems excessive, especially when the newer ones are less economical and supposedly less reliable thanks to emissions gubbins.
If the mechanical bits are all sorted, I just don't see the point of shiny unblemished interior or paintwork, yet at such a high mileage and low value, a lunched gearbox or diff probably means the scrapyard. I feel like I am in that awkward place where having spent so much on an old car it becomes even harder to decide when to let go.
To make myself feel better, I am telling myself that even a newer one could have an expensive issue.
I'm usually one for logic but if you love the car and are happy keeping it mid to long term then why not refresh it so that it's more pleasurable to own?
I strongly expect to spend a about 3 grand on my next car and then 2-3k improving/refreshing it. I find that more satisfying than buying a newer, fresher model.
Emeye said:
I am wondering if I have done the right thing.
I got carried away when the amazing family battle barge, a 2003 Volvo XC90 D5 with 160kish miles on the clock, went into my friend's garage to have the second ABS reluctor ring in a year replaced - occasionally if goes into limp mode due to a suspected stick variable-vane turbo, and there is a graunching noise at low speed on full lock.
I am now in up to the elbow - £950 with a new battery, new MAF sensor, all new engine mounts, a cleaned turbo and a new reluctor ring.
It is probably worth £2- 2500 tops but I couldn't help myself as it is such a great large family wagon, and it gets such a battering that spending £10-£15k on a newer Mk1 XC90, which is the only possible replacement as far as I can tell, seems excessive, especially when the newer ones are less economical and supposedly less reliable thanks to emissions gubbins.
If the mechanical bits are all sorted, I just don't see the point of shiny unblemished interior or paintwork, yet at such a high mileage and low value, a lunched gearbox or diff probably means the scrapyard. I feel like I am in that awkward place where having spent so much on an old car it becomes even harder to decide when to let go.
To make myself feel better, I am telling myself that even a newer one could have an expensive issue.
It's a tough one. If you ignore the value of the car, and consider alternatives, you need to assess whether you're happy spending a few £k (potentially) into the current car, knowing you won't get it back, or whether you want something different. If the market value is only £2500 or so, and you spend another £2k on it, and it's still worth £2500, does that bother you if you have that car working as you'd like, or would you rather sell it and spend the cash on something else, baring in mind something else MIGHT go bang. It is a very tough choice.I got carried away when the amazing family battle barge, a 2003 Volvo XC90 D5 with 160kish miles on the clock, went into my friend's garage to have the second ABS reluctor ring in a year replaced - occasionally if goes into limp mode due to a suspected stick variable-vane turbo, and there is a graunching noise at low speed on full lock.
I am now in up to the elbow - £950 with a new battery, new MAF sensor, all new engine mounts, a cleaned turbo and a new reluctor ring.
It is probably worth £2- 2500 tops but I couldn't help myself as it is such a great large family wagon, and it gets such a battering that spending £10-£15k on a newer Mk1 XC90, which is the only possible replacement as far as I can tell, seems excessive, especially when the newer ones are less economical and supposedly less reliable thanks to emissions gubbins.
If the mechanical bits are all sorted, I just don't see the point of shiny unblemished interior or paintwork, yet at such a high mileage and low value, a lunched gearbox or diff probably means the scrapyard. I feel like I am in that awkward place where having spent so much on an old car it becomes even harder to decide when to let go.
To make myself feel better, I am telling myself that even a newer one could have an expensive issue.
phil_cardiff said:
Emeye said:
I am wondering if I have done the right thing.
I got carried away when the amazing family battle barge, a 2003 Volvo XC90 D5 with 160kish miles on the clock, went into my friend's garage to have the second ABS reluctor ring in a year replaced - occasionally if goes into limp mode due to a suspected stick variable-vane turbo, and there is a graunching noise at low speed on full lock.
I am now in up to the elbow - £950 with a new battery, new MAF sensor, all new engine mounts, a cleaned turbo and a new reluctor ring.
It is probably worth £2- 2500 tops but I couldn't help myself as it is such a great large family wagon, and it gets such a battering that spending £10-£15k on a newer Mk1 XC90, which is the only possible replacement as far as I can tell, seems excessive, especially when the newer ones are less economical and supposedly less reliable thanks to emissions gubbins.
If the mechanical bits are all sorted, I just don't see the point of shiny unblemished interior or paintwork, yet at such a high mileage and low value, a lunched gearbox or diff probably means the scrapyard. I feel like I am in that awkward place where having spent so much on an old car it becomes even harder to decide when to let go.
To make myself feel better, I am telling myself that even a newer one could have an expensive issue.
Better the devil you know. Sometimes.I got carried away when the amazing family battle barge, a 2003 Volvo XC90 D5 with 160kish miles on the clock, went into my friend's garage to have the second ABS reluctor ring in a year replaced - occasionally if goes into limp mode due to a suspected stick variable-vane turbo, and there is a graunching noise at low speed on full lock.
I am now in up to the elbow - £950 with a new battery, new MAF sensor, all new engine mounts, a cleaned turbo and a new reluctor ring.
It is probably worth £2- 2500 tops but I couldn't help myself as it is such a great large family wagon, and it gets such a battering that spending £10-£15k on a newer Mk1 XC90, which is the only possible replacement as far as I can tell, seems excessive, especially when the newer ones are less economical and supposedly less reliable thanks to emissions gubbins.
If the mechanical bits are all sorted, I just don't see the point of shiny unblemished interior or paintwork, yet at such a high mileage and low value, a lunched gearbox or diff probably means the scrapyard. I feel like I am in that awkward place where having spent so much on an old car it becomes even harder to decide when to let go.
To make myself feel better, I am telling myself that even a newer one could have an expensive issue.
I'm usually one for logic but if you love the car and are happy keeping it mid to long term then why not refresh it so that it's more pleasurable to own?
I strongly expect to spend a about 3 grand on my next car and then 2-3k improving/refreshing it. I find that more satisfying than buying a newer, fresher model.
It's not a small bill but it's probably cheaper than changing the car and taking on other unknown issues.
Essentially you've done sensible maintenance on a known car, it's not frivolous. Yes it has the potential to crap it's self in a big way later on but so do most cars that are out of warranty.
It could be worse, I tend to get big bills, pay them, then move the car on to re-start the cycle!
TyrannosauRoss Lex said:
The Lexus developed a fault! Driver's side headlight.....works fine, then after a few minutes it turns itself off. Turn the lights totally off and then back on again and hey presto, I have working lights....for a few minutes. It's just the main light, not the parking light. Called the garage I bought it from and they said they'd fix it FOC as it's covered by their warranty. The garage asked if they're xenon (which they are) said it's likely a bulb on its way.
Booked in for Wednesday to get it done. So, for all the moaning about their poor communication they seem OK so far.That said, it hasn't been fixed yet
And to make matters worse (for the dealer) I asked if I could borrow a car or use the Corolla if they still had it. They don't do hire cars and I can't use the Corolla because the clutch has gone
had this on my is250.Booked in for Wednesday to get it done. So, for all the moaning about their poor communication they seem OK so far.That said, it hasn't been fixed yet
And to make matters worse (for the dealer) I asked if I could borrow a car or use the Corolla if they still had it. They don't do hire cars and I can't use the Corolla because the clutch has gone
new bulbs sorted it out
would go off after 10-15 mins and come on again, thought balast at first but it wasn't, it was the bulb.
stickleback123 said:
The smaller Lexus models seem to be more "Toyota Vanden Plas" than the LS series to me, I remember a colleague back in 2007/8 ish having problems with his new IS220d, after harping on about the flawless reliability of Lexus. The Japanese don't seem to be very good at diesel engines, they were late to the game and it always felt like their hearts weren't really in it.
Perhaps they (quite rightly) thought that a four pot diesel engine has no place in any passenger car. You can just imagine the powerplant engineers at Toyota/Lexus, who a few years before shook the luxury car world with that fabulous V8, standing next to their first ever diesel engine as the evil thing clatters into life.
Surely no engineer with any sense of pride can want their name associated with the first four cylinder diesel "premium" Japanese car; "An Alan Smithee Engine"
"Toyota Vanden Plas" Perhaps they (quite rightly) thought that a four pot diesel engine has no place in any passenger car. You can just imagine the powerplant engineers at Toyota/Lexus, who a few years before shook the luxury car world with that fabulous V8, standing next to their first ever diesel engine as the evil thing clatters into life.
Surely no engineer with any sense of pride can want their name associated with the first four cylinder diesel "premium" Japanese car; "An Alan Smithee Engine"
I love that!
SlowV6 said:
stickleback123 said:
The smaller Lexus models seem to be more "Toyota Vanden Plas" than the LS series to me, I remember a colleague back in 2007/8 ish having problems with his new IS220d, after harping on about the flawless reliability of Lexus. The Japanese don't seem to be very good at diesel engines, they were late to the game and it always felt like their hearts weren't really in it.
Perhaps they (quite rightly) thought that a four pot diesel engine has no place in any passenger car. You can just imagine the powerplant engineers at Toyota/Lexus, who a few years before shook the luxury car world with that fabulous V8, standing next to their first ever diesel engine as the evil thing clatters into life.
Surely no engineer with any sense of pride can want their name associated with the first four cylinder diesel "premium" Japanese car; "An Alan Smithee Engine"
"Toyota Vanden Plas" Perhaps they (quite rightly) thought that a four pot diesel engine has no place in any passenger car. You can just imagine the powerplant engineers at Toyota/Lexus, who a few years before shook the luxury car world with that fabulous V8, standing next to their first ever diesel engine as the evil thing clatters into life.
Surely no engineer with any sense of pride can want their name associated with the first four cylinder diesel "premium" Japanese car; "An Alan Smithee Engine"
I love that!
Speed addicted said:
phil_cardiff said:
Emeye said:
I am wondering if I have done the right thing.
I got carried away when the amazing family battle barge, a 2003 Volvo XC90 D5 with 160kish miles on the clock, went into my friend's garage to have the second ABS reluctor ring in a year replaced - occasionally if goes into limp mode due to a suspected stick variable-vane turbo, and there is a graunching noise at low speed on full lock.
I am now in up to the elbow - £950 with a new battery, new MAF sensor, all new engine mounts, a cleaned turbo and a new reluctor ring.
It is probably worth £2- 2500 tops but I couldn't help myself as it is such a great large family wagon, and it gets such a battering that spending £10-£15k on a newer Mk1 XC90, which is the only possible replacement as far as I can tell, seems excessive, especially when the newer ones are less economical and supposedly less reliable thanks to emissions gubbins.
If the mechanical bits are all sorted, I just don't see the point of shiny unblemished interior or paintwork, yet at such a high mileage and low value, a lunched gearbox or diff probably means the scrapyard. I feel like I am in that awkward place where having spent so much on an old car it becomes even harder to decide when to let go.
To make myself feel better, I am telling myself that even a newer one could have an expensive issue.
Better the devil you know. Sometimes.I got carried away when the amazing family battle barge, a 2003 Volvo XC90 D5 with 160kish miles on the clock, went into my friend's garage to have the second ABS reluctor ring in a year replaced - occasionally if goes into limp mode due to a suspected stick variable-vane turbo, and there is a graunching noise at low speed on full lock.
I am now in up to the elbow - £950 with a new battery, new MAF sensor, all new engine mounts, a cleaned turbo and a new reluctor ring.
It is probably worth £2- 2500 tops but I couldn't help myself as it is such a great large family wagon, and it gets such a battering that spending £10-£15k on a newer Mk1 XC90, which is the only possible replacement as far as I can tell, seems excessive, especially when the newer ones are less economical and supposedly less reliable thanks to emissions gubbins.
If the mechanical bits are all sorted, I just don't see the point of shiny unblemished interior or paintwork, yet at such a high mileage and low value, a lunched gearbox or diff probably means the scrapyard. I feel like I am in that awkward place where having spent so much on an old car it becomes even harder to decide when to let go.
To make myself feel better, I am telling myself that even a newer one could have an expensive issue.
I'm usually one for logic but if you love the car and are happy keeping it mid to long term then why not refresh it so that it's more pleasurable to own?
I strongly expect to spend a about 3 grand on my next car and then 2-3k improving/refreshing it. I find that more satisfying than buying a newer, fresher model.
It's not a small bill but it's probably cheaper than changing the car and taking on other unknown issues.
Essentially you've done sensible maintenance on a known car, it's not frivolous. Yes it has the potential to crap it's self in a big way later on but so do most cars that are out of warranty.
It could be worse, I tend to get big bills, pay them, then move the car on to re-start the cycle!
grudas said:
TyrannosauRoss Lex said:
The Lexus developed a fault! Driver's side headlight.....works fine, then after a few minutes it turns itself off. Turn the lights totally off and then back on again and hey presto, I have working lights....for a few minutes. It's just the main light, not the parking light. Called the garage I bought it from and they said they'd fix it FOC as it's covered by their warranty. The garage asked if they're xenon (which they are) said it's likely a bulb on its way.
Booked in for Wednesday to get it done. So, for all the moaning about their poor communication they seem OK so far.That said, it hasn't been fixed yet
And to make matters worse (for the dealer) I asked if I could borrow a car or use the Corolla if they still had it. They don't do hire cars and I can't use the Corolla because the clutch has gone
had this on my is250.Booked in for Wednesday to get it done. So, for all the moaning about their poor communication they seem OK so far.That said, it hasn't been fixed yet
And to make matters worse (for the dealer) I asked if I could borrow a car or use the Corolla if they still had it. They don't do hire cars and I can't use the Corolla because the clutch has gone
new bulbs sorted it out
would go off after 10-15 mins and come on again, thought balast at first but it wasn't, it was the bulb.
nomank said:
grudas said:
TyrannosauRoss Lex said:
The Lexus developed a fault! Driver's side headlight.....works fine, then after a few minutes it turns itself off. Turn the lights totally off and then back on again and hey presto, I have working lights....for a few minutes. It's just the main light, not the parking light. Called the garage I bought it from and they said they'd fix it FOC as it's covered by their warranty. The garage asked if they're xenon (which they are) said it's likely a bulb on its way.
Booked in for Wednesday to get it done. So, for all the moaning about their poor communication they seem OK so far.That said, it hasn't been fixed yet
And to make matters worse (for the dealer) I asked if I could borrow a car or use the Corolla if they still had it. They don't do hire cars and I can't use the Corolla because the clutch has gone
had this on my is250.Booked in for Wednesday to get it done. So, for all the moaning about their poor communication they seem OK so far.That said, it hasn't been fixed yet
And to make matters worse (for the dealer) I asked if I could borrow a car or use the Corolla if they still had it. They don't do hire cars and I can't use the Corolla because the clutch has gone
new bulbs sorted it out
would go off after 10-15 mins and come on again, thought balast at first but it wasn't, it was the bulb.
Updates, if anyone is interested! Long, rambly post, so TL;DR, my brother really likes the Lexus IS220d, despite the horror stories.
We've been to see an IS220d (I checked it as thoroughly as I could and drove it; no sign of any problems at all). Oil and coolant looked clean and no sign of odd smoke. As smooth/rough as any other four cylinder diesel and it had the sort of power I'd expect. Compared to an E90 320d that I used to drive regularly, it seemed about right.
We've also been to see an S60 2.0T. I have to say that I liked both cars, but my brother definitely preferred the Lexus. Bugger.
I've thoroughly talked him through the pitfalls of these cars from doing a lot of research and the information on this thread, but he says for the price he's happy to risk it. It doesn't have to last long to break even vs leasing something and if it lasts a couple of years, that's a bonus.
Lovely interior (one of the best I've seen in that segment), great seats and just generally a nice car. I noticed the odd gear ratios but they didn't bother me. I did the test drive as he said I would be more likely to spot any faults.
He's not a car person. He's coming from a shed Corsa C 1.2 that he has been driving for seven years and has satisfied him completely. He has been abroad in it and used it for everything. So stuff like gear ratios and a slightly rough engine wouldn't really register with him!
He just wants something a bit bigger and more comfortable now. He knows that it could cost more to maintain as it's a bigger, more expensive car with more complication and more expensive parts. He knows that it could blow up, but is willing to take the risk.
I suppose that saving £400 in tax vs the IS250 and £110 in insurance means he already has £500 in hand to sort issues, even before the fuel cost is taken into account. So now he has his heart set on it, I suppose I have to find him a good one. I'm seeing him again this evening, so I think we should sit down and do some maths based on his mileage and whether we should get him an IS250 instead. He does fancy an automatic so I might be able to sway him that way
We've been to see an IS220d (I checked it as thoroughly as I could and drove it; no sign of any problems at all). Oil and coolant looked clean and no sign of odd smoke. As smooth/rough as any other four cylinder diesel and it had the sort of power I'd expect. Compared to an E90 320d that I used to drive regularly, it seemed about right.
We've also been to see an S60 2.0T. I have to say that I liked both cars, but my brother definitely preferred the Lexus. Bugger.
I've thoroughly talked him through the pitfalls of these cars from doing a lot of research and the information on this thread, but he says for the price he's happy to risk it. It doesn't have to last long to break even vs leasing something and if it lasts a couple of years, that's a bonus.
Lovely interior (one of the best I've seen in that segment), great seats and just generally a nice car. I noticed the odd gear ratios but they didn't bother me. I did the test drive as he said I would be more likely to spot any faults.
He's not a car person. He's coming from a shed Corsa C 1.2 that he has been driving for seven years and has satisfied him completely. He has been abroad in it and used it for everything. So stuff like gear ratios and a slightly rough engine wouldn't really register with him!
He just wants something a bit bigger and more comfortable now. He knows that it could cost more to maintain as it's a bigger, more expensive car with more complication and more expensive parts. He knows that it could blow up, but is willing to take the risk.
I suppose that saving £400 in tax vs the IS250 and £110 in insurance means he already has £500 in hand to sort issues, even before the fuel cost is taken into account. So now he has his heart set on it, I suppose I have to find him a good one. I'm seeing him again this evening, so I think we should sit down and do some maths based on his mileage and whether we should get him an IS250 instead. He does fancy an automatic so I might be able to sway him that way
Jimmy Recard said:
Updates, if anyone is interested! Long, rambly post, so TL;DR, my brother really likes the Lexus IS220d, despite the horror stories.
We've been to see an IS220d (I checked it as thoroughly as I could and drove it; no sign of any problems at all). Oil and coolant looked clean and no sign of odd smoke. As smooth/rough as any other four cylinder diesel and it had the sort of power I'd expect. Compared to an E90 320d that I used to drive regularly, it seemed about right.
We've also been to see an S60 2.0T. I have to say that I liked both cars, but my brother definitely preferred the Lexus. Bugger.
I've thoroughly talked him through the pitfalls of these cars from doing a lot of research and the information on this thread, but he says for the price he's happy to risk it. It doesn't have to last long to break even vs leasing something and if it lasts a couple of years, that's a bonus.
Lovely interior (one of the best I've seen in that segment), great seats and just generally a nice car. I noticed the odd gear ratios but they didn't bother me. I did the test drive as he said I would be more likely to spot any faults.
He's not a car person. He's coming from a shed Corsa C 1.2 that he has been driving for seven years and has satisfied him completely. He has been abroad in it and used it for everything. So stuff like gear ratios and a slightly rough engine wouldn't really register with him!
He just wants something a bit bigger and more comfortable now. He knows that it could cost more to maintain as it's a bigger, more expensive car with more complication and more expensive parts. He knows that it could blow up, but is willing to take the risk.
I suppose that saving £400 in tax vs the IS250 and £110 in insurance means he already has £500 in hand to sort issues, even before the fuel cost is taken into account. So now he has his heart set on it, I suppose I have to find him a good one. I'm seeing him again this evening, so I think we should sit down and do some maths based on his mileage and whether we should get him an IS250 instead. He does fancy an automatic so I might be able to sway him that way
Ok, tax difference is about £300, so that is a bit of a change but not drastic We've been to see an IS220d (I checked it as thoroughly as I could and drove it; no sign of any problems at all). Oil and coolant looked clean and no sign of odd smoke. As smooth/rough as any other four cylinder diesel and it had the sort of power I'd expect. Compared to an E90 320d that I used to drive regularly, it seemed about right.
We've also been to see an S60 2.0T. I have to say that I liked both cars, but my brother definitely preferred the Lexus. Bugger.
I've thoroughly talked him through the pitfalls of these cars from doing a lot of research and the information on this thread, but he says for the price he's happy to risk it. It doesn't have to last long to break even vs leasing something and if it lasts a couple of years, that's a bonus.
Lovely interior (one of the best I've seen in that segment), great seats and just generally a nice car. I noticed the odd gear ratios but they didn't bother me. I did the test drive as he said I would be more likely to spot any faults.
He's not a car person. He's coming from a shed Corsa C 1.2 that he has been driving for seven years and has satisfied him completely. He has been abroad in it and used it for everything. So stuff like gear ratios and a slightly rough engine wouldn't really register with him!
He just wants something a bit bigger and more comfortable now. He knows that it could cost more to maintain as it's a bigger, more expensive car with more complication and more expensive parts. He knows that it could blow up, but is willing to take the risk.
I suppose that saving £400 in tax vs the IS250 and £110 in insurance means he already has £500 in hand to sort issues, even before the fuel cost is taken into account. So now he has his heart set on it, I suppose I have to find him a good one. I'm seeing him again this evening, so I think we should sit down and do some maths based on his mileage and whether we should get him an IS250 instead. He does fancy an automatic so I might be able to sway him that way
TyrannosauRoss Lex said:
Emeye said:
I am wondering if I have done the right thing.
I got carried away when the amazing family battle barge, a 2003 Volvo XC90 D5 with 160kish miles on the clock, went into my friend's garage to have the second ABS reluctor ring in a year replaced - occasionally if goes into limp mode due to a suspected stick variable-vane turbo, and there is a graunching noise at low speed on full lock.
I am now in up to the elbow - £950 with a new battery, new MAF sensor, all new engine mounts, a cleaned turbo and a new reluctor ring.
It is probably worth £2- 2500 tops but I couldn't help myself as it is such a great large family wagon, and it gets such a battering that spending £10-£15k on a newer Mk1 XC90, which is the only possible replacement as far as I can tell, seems excessive, especially when the newer ones are less economical and supposedly less reliable thanks to emissions gubbins.
If the mechanical bits are all sorted, I just don't see the point of shiny unblemished interior or paintwork, yet at such a high mileage and low value, a lunched gearbox or diff probably means the scrapyard. I feel like I am in that awkward place where having spent so much on an old car it becomes even harder to decide when to let go.
To make myself feel better, I am telling myself that even a newer one could have an expensive issue.
It's a tough one. If you ignore the value of the car, and consider alternatives, you need to assess whether you're happy spending a few £k (potentially) into the current car, knowing you won't get it back, or whether you want something different. If the market value is only £2500 or so, and you spend another £2k on it, and it's still worth £2500, does that bother you if you have that car working as you'd like, or would you rather sell it and spend the cash on something else, baring in mind something else MIGHT go bang. It is a very tough choice.I got carried away when the amazing family battle barge, a 2003 Volvo XC90 D5 with 160kish miles on the clock, went into my friend's garage to have the second ABS reluctor ring in a year replaced - occasionally if goes into limp mode due to a suspected stick variable-vane turbo, and there is a graunching noise at low speed on full lock.
I am now in up to the elbow - £950 with a new battery, new MAF sensor, all new engine mounts, a cleaned turbo and a new reluctor ring.
It is probably worth £2- 2500 tops but I couldn't help myself as it is such a great large family wagon, and it gets such a battering that spending £10-£15k on a newer Mk1 XC90, which is the only possible replacement as far as I can tell, seems excessive, especially when the newer ones are less economical and supposedly less reliable thanks to emissions gubbins.
If the mechanical bits are all sorted, I just don't see the point of shiny unblemished interior or paintwork, yet at such a high mileage and low value, a lunched gearbox or diff probably means the scrapyard. I feel like I am in that awkward place where having spent so much on an old car it becomes even harder to decide when to let go.
To make myself feel better, I am telling myself that even a newer one could have an expensive issue.
Do you think the repairs will get you past 3 months? In which case... you've broken even, and every month after that you get out of it (Without spending more obvs) gives you even better returns on your 1k 'investment'.
Top barge / man maths for you right there.
I agree with you though. My limit would be a gearbox / engine rebuild where the car is also out of action for many weeks on end. The hassle plus the cost would put me off and have me looking at the classifieds.
Johnny Raydome said:
Difficult to quantify unless you're comparing brand new specimens of each model, which we clearly can't do.
My personal (albeit limited, admittedly) experience comparing a W214 with a W201 aligns with our resident Pigeon above.
Even the sniffiest passengers of mine (3 boys under the age of 26) have admitted that a 190e is 'not that bad.'
I'll take that as a win.
Late to the party as usual, it's hard not to be when you drive an old N/A Mercedes diesel, but i thought I'd one again give my ten penneth on this highly important matter. In my most humble opinion, I think that the W124 is a better car than a W201 but isn't screwed together any better. My personal (albeit limited, admittedly) experience comparing a W214 with a W201 aligns with our resident Pigeon above.
Even the sniffiest passengers of mine (3 boys under the age of 26) have admitted that a 190e is 'not that bad.'
I'll take that as a win.
The best car I have ever owned is without doubt my 300TD S124, it feels as solid as a rock in terms of build, hasn't put a foot wrong (yet) and is an unbelievably comfortable mile eater. Conversely, the most enjoyable car I've ever owned is my 2.5-16. Being a 1989 car, it comes from the period I deem to be the absolute high water mark for MB. Proper undercoating and rust prevention, top quality material usage throughout and simple mechanical durability. A W201 scores above a W124 in terms of front wing and inner wing rust due to the design of the front bumper mounts but they are more prone to rust under the rear window a la C126; so it's swings and roundabouts. One thing on a W201 which is unforgivable are the dog s$*t door cards! They peel and swell almost without fail. Even so, not enough to ruin a frankly brilliant car.
Johnny may think that the Bornite Sportline is the best thing since sliced bread, but as one of my old cars it would be hard to argue that it's any less than sublime. *please ridicule as required for that self gratuitous flattery*
Emeye said:
I am wondering if I have done the right thing.
I got carried away when the amazing family battle barge, a 2003 Volvo XC90 D5 with 160kish miles on the clock, went into my friend's garage to have the second ABS reluctor ring in a year replaced - occasionally if goes into limp mode due to a suspected stick variable-vane turbo, and there is a graunching noise at low speed on full lock.
I am now in up to the elbow - £950 with a new battery, new MAF sensor, all new engine mounts, a cleaned turbo and a new reluctor ring.
It is probably worth £2- 2500 tops but I couldn't help myself as it is such a great large family wagon, and it gets such a battering that spending £10-£15k on a newer Mk1 XC90, which is the only possible replacement as far as I can tell, seems excessive, especially when the newer ones are less economical and supposedly less reliable thanks to emissions gubbins.
If the mechanical bits are all sorted, I just don't see the point of shiny unblemished interior or paintwork, yet at such a high mileage and low value, a lunched gearbox or diff probably means the scrapyard. I feel like I am in that awkward place where having spent so much on an old car it becomes even harder to decide when to let go.
To make myself feel better, I am telling myself that even a newer one could have an expensive issue.
The cheapest car is invariably the one you already own.I got carried away when the amazing family battle barge, a 2003 Volvo XC90 D5 with 160kish miles on the clock, went into my friend's garage to have the second ABS reluctor ring in a year replaced - occasionally if goes into limp mode due to a suspected stick variable-vane turbo, and there is a graunching noise at low speed on full lock.
I am now in up to the elbow - £950 with a new battery, new MAF sensor, all new engine mounts, a cleaned turbo and a new reluctor ring.
It is probably worth £2- 2500 tops but I couldn't help myself as it is such a great large family wagon, and it gets such a battering that spending £10-£15k on a newer Mk1 XC90, which is the only possible replacement as far as I can tell, seems excessive, especially when the newer ones are less economical and supposedly less reliable thanks to emissions gubbins.
If the mechanical bits are all sorted, I just don't see the point of shiny unblemished interior or paintwork, yet at such a high mileage and low value, a lunched gearbox or diff probably means the scrapyard. I feel like I am in that awkward place where having spent so much on an old car it becomes even harder to decide when to let go.
To make myself feel better, I am telling myself that even a newer one could have an expensive issue.
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