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Extended cabs OK for "real" people - READ ONLY

83 messages,  Last post on Sep 12, 1998 at 6:41 PM

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Messages Page 9 of 9

#74 of 83 Addendum.... by amadeus131

Sep 06, 1998 (11:08 pm)

Actually, I forgot that this truck also lacks power locks, mirrors, and windows. (Guess I want it all!) Can all these power doo-dads be added now? I figure if everything I mentioned can be added, and if the dealer gives me a fair wholesale price for my trade-in, and if either they or GM will compensate me at least somewhat for 2 years' depreciation -- these are 3 really big ifs -- then I might consider it. Or should I just cool it and wait for the '99s? I'm worried about the compact GM models coming in this loaded; it seems they tend not to.

#75 of 83 Brutus by Brutus

Sep 07, 1998 (3:21 pm)

Although, there may be aftermarket ways to add power windows, locks, and mirrors, a dealer isn't likely to arrange it for you. He gets those options stock from the factory for the trucks he orders with them. It's usually part of a factory convenience package.


When you buy a new truck, you're forking out a lot of bucks. It sounds like this deal may not be the one for you. I'd recommend that you keep you looking and see if you can't find another similar truck that has more of what you want. Remember, you're going to be paying on this truck for awhile. Make sure you get all the options you want. Also remember that you generally have to hold a vehicle for at least three years before you get a trade-in value that you may be able to live with. If you're considering trading the truck in 1-2 years from now, you'll probably be really disappointed with what you are offered.

#76 of 83 I think... by amadeus131

Sep 10, 1998 (2:34 am)

... that you're right again, Brutus. I'll hold off until I can have a local dealer do a computer search for me. (It's not my color anyway.) Failing that, there's always ordering a '99 as we've discussed in another topic. But also, this Saturday there's a "car sale" at my credit union. You all know the type. "Receive a fair price for your trade! Receive a free Hawaiian vacation! Receive 1% off financing! Professional negotiator on hand to help you receive the best deal!" Right, when pigs fly. Nevertheless, I'm going. I may just run into the used compact pickup deal of the century. But I'm not holding my breath. And I'm CERTAINLY not enlisting the "help" of the "professional negotiator". Obviously the credit union and the various local dealers involved are in cahoots here; that's fine, I can respect that -- and yet, well, I'm not as dumb as I look.

#77 of 83 jeff84 by jeff84

Sep 10, 1998 (5:40 am)

Amadeus don't have the keyless added aftermarket. they have to cut into the harness to add it and this can lead to future problems. My 98 GMC alarm went off just as we were pulling into a remote small town in the middle of no where. I had to disconnect the Batt just to checkin to my room. the next morning I had to pull the fuse to continue my vacation. the
 truck has 12,000 miles on it and the place that installed it says just bring it back in. It's a 500 mile round trip so It will have to wait. If its not factory don't add it.

#78 of 83 Yikes! by amadeus131

Sep 10, 1998 (8:15 pm)

That's pretty scary, jeff84! I was already convinced not to add aftermarket stuff (except for maybe a cap or tonneau cover), but now you've really helped me decide. I guess some things aren't worth adding aftermarket, even if they're cheaper.
What I think I'll do is go visit a local Chevy dealer and a local GMC dealer tomorrow, just to have them run computer searches for 4WD V6 x-cab S-10s and Sonomas, respectively. I'd like to go into the used "car sale" on Saturday KNOWING if a new '98 truck I could be interested in is out there or not. I won't be cornered or put up with the "if-I-can-do-this-will-you-buy-it" treatment; likewise, I won't waste much of their time. 10-15 minutes each is all this should take. Based on what I've seen in my area, it looks like I'll probably be ordering a '99 anyway. Thank you all for your advice and opinions -- will keep you posted!

#79 of 83 That depends. by stanford

Sep 10, 1998 (8:19 pm)

Stay away from these '$99 alarm and tint' places and you'll probably be fine. I've probably sunk $7,500 into my truck (exterior, alarm, stereo) over the past 5 years. There are some things that you just can't get from your dealer.

#80 of 83 stevek by stevek

Sep 11, 1998 (12:34 pm)

If you live in the northern climate a remote door lock is a must. Often the locks freeze up and the doors can not be opened with a key.

#81 of 83 Dealer locate/"Car Sale" by amadeus131

Sep 12, 1998 (5:55 am)

Well, I stopped in my local Chevy and GMC dealers today. Asked them to do a search as I mentioned above. Came a twist I hadn't counted on: they asked for my name and number to do the search later and call me back; the computer was down, the lady who punched in the data had gone home, blah blah blah. Well, all the books I've read have been a bit paranoid, saying not to give out ANYTHING but my first name until I put down the green cash. But I don't have time these days to worry about things like that. If they also run an unauthorized credit check on me, so be it. My credit is excellent; besides, I'm bound to find out if they try anything funny. I'm going to that "Car Sale" tomorrow (really today as I type). I give the dealer locate about a 15% chance of turning up anything sufficiently loaded; I give the "car sale" about 5% at best for having something I like, as used trucks are a rarity here, especially 4x4's, especially ESPECIALLY with all the options I want. Anyway, wish me luck, and happy trucking to all!

#82 of 83 kip3 by kip3

Sep 12, 1998 (6:31 pm)

Be careful of too many credit checks. Banks/cu's watch that and get nervous if they see several credit checks. They figure you must be having a problem...


I agree with Stanford: There are some really great after market items available. A good pickup is like a member of the family and I don't mind buying "presents" for it. I learned long ago that you really do get what you pay for..That doesn't mean to pay more for the same item at one place vs. another. Dodge wants $57 for side window vent shades. In their brochure it says they are made by Auto Vent Shade. They now stick on the outside,where they used to fit under the window rubber.Pep-Boys sells Auto Vent Shade brand for $30. Both prices are cash and carry. On the other hand, I paid several hundred dollars for the Remote start,engine kill,auto door lock/unlock security system. Because I wanted it installed by a real professional,with a lifetime warranty from the installer and the mfg. and 3yrs from Dodge.
kip
 

#83 of 83 kip3 by kip3

Sep 12, 1998 (6:41 pm)

Another place to save some bucks is the extended warranty. Dodge wanted $1800 for 7yr 70,000 mile warranty. It is not a chrysler backed warranty. It is backed by some ins. co..On the edmunds page you can get the same coverage for about half that. Hmmm... What can I buy "RED" for $900?? kip

Messages Page 9 of 9

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