The Briefing Room

General Category => Economy/Business => Topic started by: endicom on June 29, 2017, 01:10:56 am

Title: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: endicom on June 29, 2017, 01:10:56 am
AutoGuide
Jason Siu
June 28, 2017

A new study shows a median-income household can only afford the average-priced new car in one of the 25 largest U.S. metropolitan areas.

The study, conducted by Bankrate, reviews incomes and vehicle costs in the 25 largest metro areas in the U.S. while following the “20/4/10” rule. For those not familiar with the 20/4/10 rule, it says a car buyer should aim to put down at least 20 percent of a vehicle’s purchase price, take out a car loan no longer than four years, and devote no more than 10 percent of annual income to car payments, interest, and insurance.

More... http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2017/06/most-americans-can-t-afford-a-new-car-report.html
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Wingnut on June 29, 2017, 01:20:57 am
Most people should not own cars.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: thackney on June 29, 2017, 12:16:10 pm
My income is far above median point and we don't buy new cars.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Jazzhead on June 29, 2017, 12:19:01 pm
Most people should not own cars.

I almost got hit this morning by some guy on a bike.   At least you can hear a car coming.   
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Jazzhead on June 29, 2017, 12:29:57 pm
The last new car I bought was a 2005 Chrysler 300C.   I bought it right off the car carrier parked in the dealer's lot!   At the time it was the newest thing on the block -  a rear-wheel drive American car with copious eight-cylinder power.  I still have it, and it still looks like it just came off the showroom floor,  although it was never my daily driver.   

Since then, I've bought used because I just haven't been inspired in quite the same way by the new iron.  I like interesting older cars,  and tend to haunt car lots looking for the holy grail.  I kept my Jeep Grand Cherokee for over 20 years until last Labor Day when I saw a first-gen Cadillac SRX at my local Chevy dealer -  perfect condition, perfect color, perfect equipment.   And over $35,000 off the original list price!   I paid cash on the spot and it's been my Caddy for Daddy ever since.   
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: EC on June 29, 2017, 12:35:57 pm
I've never even sat in a new car, never mind owned one.  :tongue2:

We don't take out loans.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Gefn on June 29, 2017, 12:52:03 pm
Before I post, please don't hate me.

I had a Honda Civic which I loved. About a month before my dad passed he was worried about my car because it started to need little things. I don't consider batteries or tires part of the car because they die. Nor do I feel that way about windshield wipers.

But there were other things and he, being a dad, was worried as all dads worry about their children.

He left me some money in his will that was specific for a new car. So with a trade in and the money he left, I got a new car two and a half weeks ago.

It should last for the next twenty years . It's a great car but it has so many computers in it it kinda freaks me out, if you get my drift.

Prior to that, the only cars I got were hand me downs from my parents or dealers demos.

The car reminds me of my dad. I named it after him
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: thackney on June 29, 2017, 01:02:05 pm
Before I post, please don't hate me.

I had a Honda Civic which I loved. About a month before my dad passed he was worried about my car because it started to need little things. I don't consider batteries or tires part of the car because they die. Nor do I feel that way about windshield wipers.

But there were other things and he, being a dad, was worried as all dads worry about their children.

He left me some money in his will that was specific for a new car. So with a trade in and the money he left, I got a new car two and a half weeks ago.

It should last for the next twenty years . It's a great car but it has so many computers in it it kinda freaks me out, if you get my drift.

Prior to that, the only cars I got were hand me downs from my parents or dealers demos.

The car reminds me of my dad. I named it after him

You bought a car you can afford.  There is nothing wrong with that.

I have bought new cars in the past, intending to keep them for a couple hundred thousand miles, maintaining them to make them last.

I've found other life events have typically caused us to change vehicle needs.  So while we still drive them until they drop, we start with a good used car these days.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Wingnut on June 29, 2017, 01:03:02 pm
I almost got hit this morning by some guy on a bike.   At least you can hear a car coming.

That was you?  I would have ran your ass over had I known.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Gefn on June 29, 2017, 01:07:28 pm
You bought a car you can afford.  There is nothing wrong with that.

I have bought new cars in the past, intending to keep them for a couple hundred thousand miles, maintaining them to make them last.

I've found other life events have typically caused us to change vehicle needs.  So while we still drive them until they drop, we start with a good used car these days.

thanks for understanding
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: driftdiver on June 29, 2017, 01:11:54 pm
Before I post, please don't hate me.

I had a Honda Civic which I loved. About a month before my dad passed he was worried about my car because it started to need little things. I don't consider batteries or tires part of the car because they die. Nor do I feel that way about windshield wipers.

But there were other things and he, being a dad, was worried as all dads worry about their children.

He left me some money in his will that was specific for a new car. So with a trade in and the money he left, I got a new car two and a half weeks ago.

It should last for the next twenty years . It's a great car but it has so many computers in it it kinda freaks me out, if you get my drift.

Prior to that, the only cars I got were hand me downs from my parents or dealers demos.

The car reminds me of my dad. I named it after him

Were not liberals here, well most of us aren't.   We don't hate you for doing well enough to afford a car.  I applaud you for the judgement you demonstrated and extend my sympathies for your father.  He sounds like a good Dad.

Don't be overly optimistic about how long the car will last.  I've found that most cars start costing more to maintain at a certain point then a new car does. 
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: EC on June 29, 2017, 01:13:57 pm
Before I post, please don't hate me.

I had a Honda Civic which I loved. About a month before my dad passed he was worried about my car because it started to need little things. I don't consider batteries or tires part of the car because they die. Nor do I feel that way about windshield wipers.

But there were other things and he, being a dad, was worried as all dads worry about their children.

He left me some money in his will that was specific for a new car. So with a trade in and the money he left, I got a new car two and a half weeks ago.

It should last for the next twenty years . It's a great car but it has so many computers in it it kinda freaks me out, if you get my drift.

Prior to that, the only cars I got were hand me downs from my parents or dealers demos.

The car reminds me of my dad. I named it after him

No hate here. You got a good dad who acted to remove one worry.  :beer:
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Cripplecreek on June 29, 2017, 01:17:54 pm
Ever increasing "safety" equipment is helping to drive the cost out of reach.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: thackney on June 29, 2017, 01:20:34 pm
Ever increasing "safety" equipment is helping to drive the cost out of reach.

And government mandates such as CAFE mpg requirements.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Jazzhead on June 29, 2017, 01:33:20 pm
Government CAFE mandates reduce consumer choice.   Safety technology (some mandated, some not) drives up the cost of new cars. 
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: goodwithagun on June 29, 2017, 01:34:46 pm
Most of my coworkers can't afford new cars, yet they buy them every few years anyway. @Freya there's absolutely nothing wrong with what you did  :seeya:
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Restored on June 29, 2017, 01:36:22 pm
Before I post, please don't hate me.

That's it. Ruin our fun.

If you don't have the cash on hand to pay for it, you can't afford the car. That doesn't mean you have to use the cash but you need to have it. A car is a depreciating asset. You don't want to sink too much into it.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: driftdiver on June 29, 2017, 01:40:13 pm
That's it. Ruin our fun.

If you don't have the cash on hand to pay for it, you can't afford the car. That doesn't mean you have to use the cash but you need to have it. A car is a depreciating asset. You don't want to sink too much into it.

Sorry restored but I gotta disagree.   Its her money she can do with it as she pleases.  Perhaps it makes sense if your only goal is to spend less money on a car.   If you can make the payments then buy whatever car you want.

IMO there is not much better then not having a car payment but each to their own.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Restored on June 29, 2017, 01:50:06 pm
In her case, she had the cash on hand. But I wasn't talking about her. I meant in general.

Quote
If you can make the payments then buy whatever car you want.

How do you know you will be able to make the payments? You can't predict the future. You only think you can make the next payment. Hence the problem with payments.

Example: My sister is paying $525 a month for a used truck. If she goes out of work for more than a few weeks, she can't make the payment because she spent her savings on a 5th wheel trailer.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Frank Cannon on June 29, 2017, 01:54:11 pm
They can't afford new cars but they are taking them anyway. That is why there is a glut of lease returns and trade ins that are way underwater because people are taking out 8 year loans. Mix into that the fact that there is a glut of repos because they are doing subprime loans and only checking 8% of income verification, the whole shady auto sales system is going to implode just like the housing market did.

https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2017-05-22/subprime-auto-giant-checked-income-on-just-8-of-loans-in-abs
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: driftdiver on June 29, 2017, 01:54:30 pm
In her case, she had the cash on hand. But I wasn't talking about her. I meant in general.

How do you know you will be able to make the payments? You can't predict the future. You only think you can make the next payment. Hence the problem with payments.

You don't know.  Just like you don't know that you'll wake up in the morning.   Lifes full of risks,  youze rolz the dice and youze takes your chances just like the bank when they choose to loan you the money.

One thing I do know is that there is more to life than money. 
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Gefn on June 29, 2017, 01:56:58 pm
That's it. Ruin our fun.

If you don't have the cash on hand to pay for it, you can't afford the car. That doesn't mean you have to use the cash but you need to have it. A car is a depreciating asset. You don't want to sink too much into it.

I paid cash. I was brought up if you can't afford ii, you don't buy it.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Restored on June 29, 2017, 01:58:37 pm
You don't know.  Just like you don't know that you'll wake up in the morning.   Lifes full of risks,  youze rolz the dice and youze takes your chances just like the bank when they choose to loan you the money.

One thing I do know is that there is more to life than money.

That's why you buy the car you can afford. Because risk is only good with appreciating assets. Not only can the bank take your car, they could make you continue paying for the car you don't have anymore. 
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Cripplecreek on June 29, 2017, 02:02:36 pm
I paid $500 for this 03 Corolla S with 95,000 miles on it. It came with a complete record of all maintenance, fluid and oil changes. The guy even put a new set of tires and a brake job on it plus took me to the garage to pick it up.

Basically he gave me the car and I reimbursed him for the tires and brakes.

(http://i.imgur.com/ayVr8kY.jpg)
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Millee on June 29, 2017, 02:04:18 pm


The car reminds me of my dad. I named it after him

Condolences on your dad's passing. 
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: driftdiver on June 29, 2017, 02:17:45 pm
That's why you buy the car you can afford. Because risk is only good with appreciating assets. Not only can the bank take your car, they could make you continue paying for the car you don't have anymore.

You can't take assets that have appreciated with you.   You can't take a car either but you sure can have fun while you're here.

Its about moderation and taking reasonable risks.  At least for me.   Others can do what they want.

Of course I've taken so much risk with my business that the risk of a car isn't even a rounding error on the ledger.

Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Weird Tolkienish Figure on June 29, 2017, 02:20:51 pm
In her case, she had the cash on hand. But I wasn't talking about her. I meant in general.

How do you know you will be able to make the payments? You can't predict the future. You only think you can make the next payment. Hence the problem with payments.

Example: My sister is paying $525 a month for a used truck. If she goes out of work for more than a few weeks, she can't make the payment because she spent her savings on a 5th wheel trailer.

Good point but do you pay cash for your house? The real problem with cars is that they are a depreciating asset. That being said, I see it as a trade off: a car payment vs $1000 in repairs every few months. Pick your poison.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Wingnut on June 29, 2017, 02:31:29 pm
Cash for Clunkers did more to price the poor out of affordable transportation than any other program in the history of man.  They saved the fat cat Auto industry and it's bloated dealer network of rich mega dealerships on the backs of the american public.   A pox on their house.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Wingnut on June 29, 2017, 02:33:01 pm
I paid $500 for this 03 Corolla S with 95,000 miles on it. It came with a complete record of all maintenance, fluid and oil changes. The guy even put a new set of tires and a brake job on it plus took me to the garage to pick it up.

Basically he gave me the car and I reimbursed him for the tires and brakes.

(http://i.imgur.com/ayVr8kY.jpg)

AutoZone sells 14 inch wheel covers for 39.99.

Just say'n

 :police:
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Restored on June 29, 2017, 02:35:02 pm
Good point but do you pay cash for your house?

No but it is an appreciating asset. It has gone from $189k to $400k in 20 years.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: EC on June 29, 2017, 02:36:39 pm
Good point but do you pay cash for your house?

Oddly enough - yes.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Frank Cannon on June 29, 2017, 02:38:33 pm
AutoZone sells 14 inch wheel covers for 39.99.

Just say'n

 :police:

Walmart sells lighter fluid and matches. Just sayin'.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Wingnut on June 29, 2017, 02:42:32 pm
Walmart sells lighter fluid and matches. Just sayin'.

What is NADA on that thang....purely for point of reference should a comp claim be needed.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: driftdiver on June 29, 2017, 02:47:14 pm
Oddly enough - yes.

There is nothing wrong with debt as long as it is not misused.  From a financial perspective paying cash for a house is not necessarily a good idea.   The loan is costing you 2.4-4% depending on your loan rate.    With conservative investing you can get 8% on that money.

A 4% net profit for investing the money elsewhere over paying cash for a home.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: EC on June 29, 2017, 02:49:48 pm
Interest rate on a mortgage over here was around 18% when we bought our first place. We also got a £15,000 discount for cash.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Restored on June 29, 2017, 02:52:14 pm
T From a financial perspective paying cash for a house is not necessarily a good idea.   The loan is costing you 2.4-4% depending on your loan rate.    With conservative investing you can get 8% on that money.

If that were true, you would borrow as much as possible against your house to invest. You would never want to pay off your house.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: driftdiver on June 29, 2017, 03:00:58 pm
If that were true, you would borrow as much as possible against your house to invest. You would never want to pay off your house.

Some people don't ever pay off their house anyway.  The point is that if you are only looking at dollars and cents (or euro's) then it might not make sense.

Personally I lived on credit for a long time and was deep in debt.    One day I added up what I was paying interest each month and about puked. 

I'm almost out of debt except for my home and love the feeling.   I'm only saying that if other people decide that having a new car with a payment is acceptable then thats their choice.    Its between them and their bank.    Most banks are evil and have no soul.  So when you get a loan you are making a deal with the devil.  IMHO

I just wish they'd stop cutting me off in traffic.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: RoosGirl on June 29, 2017, 03:18:59 pm
The prices on cars have gone up like crazy though.  We bought a used Ford Expedition XLT EL.  We got it because we were hauling 4 dogs to different events on a regular basis.  The starting MSRP on a new, 2017 Ford Expedition XLT (base model) EL is $49,835!  I find this a ridiculous amount for a closed in pick-up truck.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Restored on June 29, 2017, 03:26:27 pm
Banks are businesses, incapable of evil. If someone borrows money, they accept the risk. What they cannot do is predict the future. When we bought our house, we had the money to make payments for a while if we had no income.

Our 2nd mortgage(LOC) is 1/4 point over prime. We lost a dependent and a tuition credit. So using the 2nd to buy a car isn't such a bad deal since it helps with taxes. It beats selling our AT&T stock which is paying a 5% dividend. But when I buy a car, the whole thing(price - trade + fees) has to come in under $10k. My father owned a car dealership(Lincoln) and his father owned a car dealership(Ford). There is no point paying $30k for a new car when you can buy one for $10k. You can pay for a lot of repairs for $20k.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: ABX on June 29, 2017, 03:26:50 pm
My income is far above median point and we don't buy new cars.

Dito, we always buy used, usually 1-2 years old with almost full warranty. You save a lot and get one with the bugs already identified. My current car listed for over 60k new, got it about a year old under 10k miles for under 40k, paid off in two years.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: thackney on June 29, 2017, 03:27:10 pm
We bought a used Ford Expedition XLT EL.  We got it because we were hauling 4 dogs to different events on a regular basis.

What year?  We bought a 2015 last year and love it.  We haul horses with it, but we use a trailer....
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: RoosGirl on June 29, 2017, 03:32:37 pm
What year?  We bought a 2015 last year and love it.  We haul horses with it, but we use a trailer....

Haha, glad you have a trailer for them.  That could start getting cramped inside.

We bought a 2008 in 2009.  It was a dealer rental and we've been super happy with it.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Night Hides Not on June 29, 2017, 05:24:35 pm
My income is far above median point and we don't buy new cars.

We've bought one new car in the last ten years. My wife had her heart set on a Murano, and we've enjoyed driving.

I upgraded a couple months ago, bought a 2014 Altima with about 20K miles on it. Perfect for me, and what I want to drive it for: specifically, short-long road trips mostly to wineries, or an occasional trip to Reno to see my sister.

I had my "dream car" in my 20s, before marriage and kids, so I've never felt shortchanged in that area. It was a Volvo 242GT, drove over 30K miles on the autobahn in Germany. Best cruising speed was 90, didn't feel much until I got past 110.

I was a legend at my work place: made it from Kleber Kaserne (K-Town) to Spangdahlem AB in 55 minutes, a 90 mile trip that was only half autobahn at the time.  lol

(http://gomotors.net/pics/Volvo/volvo-242-gt-06.jpg)

Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: thackney on June 29, 2017, 05:26:29 pm
Haha, glad you have a trailer for them.  That could start getting cramped inside.

We bought a 2008 in 2009.  It was a dealer rental and we've been super happy with it.

In 2015, they changed the engine to a twin turbo 3.5L, V6.  I am very impressed with it.  I would not hesitate to buy another.  It has better acceleration, pulling a trailer with a couple of horses, than my 6.2L V8 F250.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: driftdiver on June 29, 2017, 05:30:55 pm
Banks are businesses, incapable of evil. If someone borrows money, they accept the risk. What they cannot do is predict the future. When we bought our house, we had the money to make payments for a while if we had no income.

Our 2nd mortgage(LOC) is 1/4 point over prime. We lost a dependent and a tuition credit. So using the 2nd to buy a car isn't such a bad deal since it helps with taxes. It beats selling our AT&T stock which is paying a 5% dividend. But when I buy a car, the whole thing(price - trade + fees) has to come in under $10k. My father owned a car dealership(Lincoln) and his father owned a car dealership(Ford). There is no point paying $30k for a new car when you can buy one for $10k. You can pay for a lot of repairs for $20k.

@Restored
Banks are run & operated by people, in many cases evil people.  In most cases by people who focus solely on the money and not the human side of the equation. 

When a lender makes a loan they also accept risk, the risk of not being paid back.   In return for that risk and the use of their money the law allows them to charge interest.   Many lenders have fought to change laws to eliminate their risk.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: driftdiver on June 29, 2017, 05:32:48 pm
The prices on cars have gone up like crazy though.  We bought a used Ford Expedition XLT EL.  We got it because we were hauling 4 dogs to different events on a regular basis.  The starting MSRP on a new, 2017 Ford Expedition XLT (base model) EL is $49,835!  I find this a ridiculous amount for a closed in pick-up truck.

Has the price of the cars gone up or has the value of our dollar gone down?   Perhaps not directly reflected in the dollar value as reflected by wall street but the materials used to make the cars have become more expensive.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Restored on June 29, 2017, 05:39:51 pm
Banks can be run by evil people but the runners don't make decisions that affect people who don't choose the bank. Granted, I chose Wachovia but it became Wells Fargo. But I can move my money whenever I want. A bank cannot lend you money without your permission.

I recently test drove a Lincoln MKS Ecoboost. 350 HP and 350 lbs of torque. It was really fast and loaded but didn't pass the mechanic inspection. But that was a great car.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Smokin Joe on June 29, 2017, 05:40:19 pm
I've never even sat in a new car, never mind owned one.  :tongue2:

We don't take out loans.
I have sat in one, but I checked my boots for undesirable material first. I didn't like the smell of evolving solvents so much.

We don't take out loans either, and I never have bought a new car. With the on again, off again nature of the oil patch, If we can't pay cash, we do without until we can or we don't do it at all.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Restored on June 29, 2017, 05:48:39 pm
Has the price of the cars gone up or has the value of our dollar gone down?   Perhaps not directly reflected in the dollar value as reflected by wall street but the materials used to make the cars have become more expensive.

The price has become irrelevant because people base their decision on the payment amount. That Ford Escape SE I want is $328 a month. You can buy it for cash for $25k or pay $28.6k to finance it. If you only care about the $328 a month, the price is not a concern. But you can get a nice Escape Titanium for $361 a month. Don't you think you are worth that $33 a month? You can skip going to one movie and pay for that.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Frank Cannon on June 29, 2017, 06:00:35 pm
What is NADA on that thang....purely for point of reference should a comp claim be needed.

$38. There isn't much metal to scrap out so that is why the appraisal.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Wingnut on June 29, 2017, 06:09:47 pm
  I mean really.  What do you want from life. A meaningless love affair with a girl that you met tonight. How can you tell when you're doin' alright. Does your bank account swell while you're dreaming at night?  Well, you can't have that, but if you're an American citizen you are entitled to"
A  brand new car and an Obama phone.....
a heated kidney shaped pool,
a microwave oven--don't watch the food cook,
a Dyna-Gym--I'll personally demonstrate it in the privacy of your own home,
a king-size Titanic unsinkable Molly Brown waterbed with polybendum,
a foolproof plan and an airtight alibi,
real simulated Indian jewelry,
a Gucci shoetree,
a year's supply of antibiotics,
a personally autographed picture of Randy Mantooth
and Bob Dylan's new unlisted phone number,
a beautifully restored 3rd Reich swizzle stick,
Rosemary's baby,
a dream date in kneepads with Paul Williams,
a new Matador, a new mastodon,
a Maverick, a Mustang, a Montego,
a Merc Montclair, a Mark IV, a meteor,
a Mercedes, an MG, or a Malibu,
a Mort Moriarty, a Maserati, a Mac truck,
a Mazda, a new Monza, or a moped,
a Winnebago--Hell, a herd of Winnebago's we're giving 'em away,
or how about a McCulloch chainsaw,
a Las Vegas wedding,
a Mexican divorce,
a solid gold Kama Sutra coffee pot,
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: RoosGirl on June 29, 2017, 06:12:02 pm
The price has become irrelevant because people base their decision on the payment amount. That Ford Escape SE I want is $328 a month. You can buy it for cash for $25k or pay $28.6k to finance it. If you only care about the $328 a month, the price is not a concern. But you can get a nice Escape Titanium for $361 a month. Don't you think you are worth that $33 a month? You can skip going to one movie and pay for that.

LOL.  I don't buy *anything* that way.  But on the rare occasion that we've been in a car dealership I sure have fun with the salesmen that try to push that line.  If it's ONLY $33 more per month then it won't be a big deal for you to take that off the price of the car.  My husband doesn't like dealing with that kind of thing, but he wanted a new Pontiac Solstice when they came out.  The salesman/manager hated me, and hubby thought he was going to lose out on the car he wanted. 
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: GrouchoTex on June 29, 2017, 06:29:11 pm
This is a bit odd to hear.
I listen to a show on Saturdays  in the Houston area called the car pro show, with a guy named Jerry Reynolds, who been in the car business for years.
What they say is that the average new car sells at a $200.00 dollar loss to the dealer, and most of the money is made on used cars and service.
The reason they say that is the case is that most people shop around on the internet before actually going into a dealership, thereby making it more competitive to sell new cars.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Smokin Joe on June 29, 2017, 06:29:14 pm
LOL.  I don't buy *anything* that way.  But on the rare occasion that we've been in a car dealership I sure have fun with the salesmen that try to push that line.  If it's ONLY $33 more per month then it won't be a big deal for you to take that off the price of the car.  My husband doesn't like dealing with that kind of thing, but he wanted a new Pontiac Solstice when they came out.  The salesman/manager hated me, and hubby thought he was going to lose out on the car he wanted.
I don't do badly in the average horsetrade, but Mrs. Joe is something to watch (I have learned to just stand there and watch). 
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Cripplecreek on June 29, 2017, 06:37:29 pm
LOL.  I don't buy *anything* that way.  But on the rare occasion that we've been in a car dealership I sure have fun with the salesmen that try to push that line.  If it's ONLY $33 more per month then it won't be a big deal for you to take that off the price of the car.  My husband doesn't like dealing with that kind of thing, but he wanted a new Pontiac Solstice when they came out.  The salesman/manager hated me, and hubby thought he was going to lose out on the car he wanted.

I'm just never going to pay more than 4 figures for a car.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Smokin Joe on June 29, 2017, 06:38:16 pm
I'm just never going to pay more than 4 figures for a car.
LOL! I'm cheap, too... 888high58888
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Weird Tolkienish Figure on June 29, 2017, 06:52:06 pm
I'm just never going to pay more than 4 figures for a car.

I find that as soon as a car hits 200K miles though, no matter how well kept for the car is, you will start shelling out major money, unless you do it all yourself. Which may be hard without a lift.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Cripplecreek on June 29, 2017, 07:03:56 pm
LOL! I'm cheap, too... 888high58888

I got a good deal on the Corolla simply because the guy selling it just needed to get it out of his way. His parents bought it for him when he was in college and now he's a resident doctor making Escalade money.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: RoosGirl on June 29, 2017, 07:04:06 pm
I'm just never going to pay more than 4 figures for a car.

I hear ya.  We bought that in 2007 and still have it.  My other brand new car was a 1999 Chevy Blazer, we still have it.  Hubby switches off driving the two to work.  And I drive the 2008 Expedition, which is the one we bought used.  Hubby is great at maintaining and fixing them, so we have gotten a lot of mileage out of all of them so far.  Actually, I'll be 43 this year and those are the only 3 cars I have owned.  Ooops, I take that back, when I was in college my dad gave me an 1989 Chevy Blazer that I sold when I bought the '99.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Smokin Joe on June 29, 2017, 07:09:36 pm
I got a good deal on the Corolla simply because the guy selling it just needed to get it out of his way. His parents bought it for him when he was in college and now he's a resident doctor making Escalade money.
I watch two places: rental vehicle and State auctions (both have vehicles normally well maintained, but often driven a little hard). Still they have miles left on them and are aged out of the fleet based on model year.

And I watch Estate sales. The kids usually have vehicles that are newer, the folks often maintained their vehicles well (you can tell by the rest of the stuff), the vehicles were often garaged, and have relatively low mileage for their model year. For me the question is (for a vehicle that is suitable for my use) how many miles can I get out of this for how much buy in. Sometimes you can get a really good deal.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Restored on June 29, 2017, 07:31:26 pm
In 2012, we bought a car for our daughter from a 90 year-old man we knew. 2000 Ford ZX2 with 28k miles on it. He couldn't get out of the car.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: thackney on June 29, 2017, 08:01:13 pm
In 2012, we bought a car for our daughter from a 90 year-old man we knew. 2000 Ford ZX2 with 28k miles on it. He couldn't get out of the car.

Wow, I would hope you got that at a great price given you had to drive around with a 90 year old man all the time...
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: truth_seeker on June 29, 2017, 08:02:34 pm
(http://momentcar.com/images/audi-a6-2005-1.jpg)

Audi A6, Quattro
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Elderberry on June 29, 2017, 08:24:49 pm
I find that as soon as a car hits 200K miles though, no matter how well kept for the car is, you will start shelling out major money, unless you do it all yourself. Which may be hard without a lift.

Three of my daily drivers have over 200k miles. I do all of my car repairs. No lift. Just a floor jack and jack stands. I had to replace the auto trans in my 98 Z71. That was fun.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: EC on June 29, 2017, 08:34:13 pm
Three of my daily drivers have over 200k miles. I do all of my car repairs. No lift. Just a floor jack and jack stands. I had to replace the auto trans in my 98 Z71. That was fun.

I used to do all my own repairs. Depends on the repair needed now - I'm too old to be laying in the street.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: GrouchoTex on June 29, 2017, 08:36:13 pm
Wow, I would hope you got that at a great price given you had to drive around with a 90 year old man all the time...

Yesterday, I shot an elephant in my pajamas.
How he go into my pajamas, I'll never know......
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Smokin Joe on June 29, 2017, 08:42:40 pm
(http://momentcar.com/images/audi-a6-2005-1.jpg)

Audi A6, Quattro
Neighbor has the A4. It blows oil out of the tailpipe...
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Smokin Joe on June 29, 2017, 08:44:08 pm
I used to do all my own repairs. Depends on the repair needed now - I'm too old to be laying in the street.
I don't think one ever gets too old to be laying in the street. It is just done less on a voluntary basis.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Elderberry on June 29, 2017, 08:56:22 pm
I used to do all my own repairs. Depends on the repair needed now - I'm too old to be laying in the street.

I'm just not ready to go the lease route as I have a problem trusting anyone to work on my machines.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Wingnut on June 29, 2017, 09:20:00 pm
I don't think one ever gets too old to be laying in the street. It is just done less on a voluntary basis.

You don't have to give it away turning tricks on the street for free.  You still have some value.  If they don't want to pay you, hit'em upside their head with your purse full of quarters!

 :amen:
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Weird Tolkienish Figure on June 29, 2017, 09:24:34 pm
I don't think one ever gets too old to be laying in the street. It is just done less on a voluntary basis.

Ok that was funny.  :laugh:
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Smokin Joe on June 29, 2017, 09:25:48 pm
You don't have to give it away turning tricks on the street for free.  You still have some value.  If they don't want to pay you, hit'em upside their head with your purse full of quarters!

 :amen:
You got the wrong guy. We were talking about auto mechanics, but thanks for playing. That's wRench, with an 'R'.

Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Wingnut on June 29, 2017, 09:34:34 pm
That's wRench, with an 'R'.

Oh...my bad.   Cheers

(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BBrLoTE0oPQ/ToMNmJ-TGnI/AAAAAAAAMSI/6LA7hxNCxhg/s1600/WW28SEP2011.jpg)
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Smokin Joe on June 29, 2017, 09:43:10 pm
Oh...my bad.   Cheers

(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BBrLoTE0oPQ/ToMNmJ-TGnI/AAAAAAAAMSI/6LA7hxNCxhg/s1600/WW28SEP2011.jpg)
:beer: MUCH better!
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: GrouchoTex on June 29, 2017, 09:45:15 pm
Oh...my bad.   Cheers

(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BBrLoTE0oPQ/ToMNmJ-TGnI/AAAAAAAAMSI/6LA7hxNCxhg/s1600/WW28SEP2011.jpg)

Thanks, I needed that!
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Wingnut on June 29, 2017, 09:52:26 pm
Thanks, I needed that!

They are sisters.  fyi!
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: InHeavenThereIsNoBeer on June 29, 2017, 10:25:38 pm
Yesterday, I shot an elephant in my pajamas.
How he go into my pajamas, I'll never know......

I came home the other day and my wife met me at the door.

"Take off my dress," she said.  So I did.
"Take off my bra," she said.  So I did.
"Take off my panties," she said.  So I did.

"Now don't ever let me catch you wearing my clothes again!"
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: The_Reader_David on June 29, 2017, 11:21:04 pm
AutoGuide
Jason Siu
June 28, 2017

A new study shows a median-income household can only afford the average-priced new car in one of the 25 largest U.S. metropolitan areas.

The study, conducted by Bankrate, reviews incomes and vehicle costs in the 25 largest metro areas in the U.S. while following the “20/4/10” rule. For those not familiar with the 20/4/10 rule, it says a car buyer should aim to put down at least 20 percent of a vehicle’s purchase price, take out a car loan no longer than four years, and devote no more than 10 percent of annual income to car payments, interest, and insurance.

More... http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2017/06/most-americans-can-t-afford-a-new-car-report.html

Well, there's the problem:  seeing that new vehicles sold under Japanese and Korean brands easily last 10 years so the 20/4/10 rule should probably be replaced with a 20/6/10 rule, and they're only looking at the largest metro areas where people don't need average priced cars, since smaller, cheaper models are better in urban environments, the whole study is flawed.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: goodwithagun on June 29, 2017, 11:30:14 pm
Rant on. And can we talk about phones? All of my coworkers have payment plans for them, and then get a new one when the old one is paid off in two years. Two year phone financing! To top it off, they make fun of my 4S and 10 year old Nissan Titan. I tell them I add another year to my next car purchase date every time somebody asks when I'm getting a new car. My husband and I do well, but that doesn't mean we spend everything we make fer cryin' out loud! Rant off.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Smokin Joe on June 29, 2017, 11:30:42 pm
Well, there's the problem:  seeing that new vehicles sold under Japanese and Korean brands easily last 10 years so the 20/4/10 rule should probably be replaced with a 20/6/10 rule, and they're only looking at the largest metro areas where people don't need average priced cars, since smaller, cheaper models are better in urban environments, the whole study is flawed.
Not to mention that 10% disposable income in major metro areas is more money than 10% disposable income out in the boonies, where there is no alternative to driving.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Frank Cannon on June 29, 2017, 11:33:09 pm
(http://momentcar.com/images/audi-a6-2005-1.jpg)

Audi A6, Quattro

Audi's are only good until the lease ends. Then you throw them away.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Smokin Joe on June 29, 2017, 11:37:29 pm
Audi's are only good until the lease ends. Then you throw them away.
LOL! THe neighbor's is a pretty blue. If it had a sunroof it's make a neat planter...
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Restored on June 29, 2017, 11:40:36 pm
Audi's are only good until the lease ends. Then you throw them away.

It's a Volkswagen that is more expensive to fix.
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Fishrrman on June 30, 2017, 01:18:12 am
I bought my first car for cash after I got out of the Army in 1972 -- a '66 VW Campmobile, cost $1,600.

But when I got hired by the railroad in '79, I was down to about $40 cash in the bank, and the 13-year-old VW, which wasn't gonna make it with the amount of driving that would be required.

So I borrowed a few hundred $$$ from my mom, and put the down payment on a new 1979 Honda Accord.

Within 6 months, I had saved enough to pay off the loan.

Since then, I pay cash for all my vehicles (cars and motorcycles while I had them).

Then again, even though I generally "bought new", I've never bought overly-expensive cars, and I kept them as long as I could. For example, I bought a 1993 Acura Integra and kept it for 12 years, and sold it for $400 with 300,000 miles on it.

But when it came time to buy again in 2015, I decided to stop buying "new".
This time around, it was a Toyota Certified Used RAV4, saved about 5,000 from new. It had only 7,400 miles and was literally like new. The drivetrain warranty is longer on their certified used cars, too: 7 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first.

No more new cars for me.
Heh. I'm wondering if there are going to be any "more" cars, even so!
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Fishrrman on June 30, 2017, 01:20:43 am
Weird wrote:
"Good point but do you pay cash for your house?"

If I buy another one, I'll be paying cash, yeah.
But it won't be anyplace too expensive!
Title: Re: Most Americans Can’t Afford a New Car: Report
Post by: Weird Tolkienish Figure on June 30, 2017, 03:07:01 am
I bought my first car for cash after I got out of the Army in 1972 -- a '66 VW Campmobile, cost $1,600.

But when I got hired by the railroad in '79, I was down to about $40 cash in the bank, and the 13-year-old VW, which wasn't gonna make it with the amount of driving that would be required.

So I borrowed a few hundred $$$ from my mom, and put the down payment on a new 1979 Honda Accord.

Within 6 months, I had saved enough to pay off the loan.

Since then, I pay cash for all my vehicles (cars and motorcycles while I had them).

Then again, even though I generally "bought new", I've never bought overly-expensive cars, and I kept them as long as I could. For example, I bought a 1993 Acura Integra and kept it for 12 years, and sold it for $400 with 300,000 miles on it.

But when it came time to buy again in 2015, I decided to stop buying "new".
This time around, it was a Toyota Certified Used RAV4, saved about 5,000 from new. It had only 7,400 miles and was literally like new. The drivetrain warranty is longer on their certified used cars, too: 7 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first.

No more new cars for me.
Heh. I'm wondering if there are going to be any "more" cars, even so!

That's the best time to buy. Right after leaving the lot. Supposedly they lose 10-20% after driving off the lot.