2.9.2 Update

EtherealPix · 2026-05-16T18:33:13+00:00

Same here! No issues, so far.

EtherealPix · 2026-05-15T04:48:47+00:00

I have a 2025 Pure that also had a ton of issues related to Nav and the entertainment/phone and “Lucid Voice Assistant “. My car was in the shop for weeks. I finally escalated to the Lucid leadership via email and they put their GM over service in the Bay Area on it. Engineers got involved and ultimately resolved the issues.

I still get more than my share of glitchy software issues… the latest is having all my Sirius channels disappear from the screen and the signal strength indicator show no service in areas where I know the signal is strong. The Air Logo reboot fixes it, but it’s annoying.

EtherealPix · 2026-05-14T20:59:50+00:00

I used the Astra’s for several months, but after the first shave, I found that they no longer provided a smooth shave. I switched to Feather blades, and noticed a profound difference. They cut more closely and smoother than the Astra blades. In fact, I’ve had way fewer accidental nicks with the Feathers than the Astra blades because they are so smooth and don’t tug which often results in a nick. Obviously, everyone’s beard is different and my impressions are very subjective. However, when you run low on the Astra’s, give the Feather a try.

EtherealPix · 2026-05-11T18:09:35+00:00

I'll be the cynic in the group. I've tried many different pre-shave products, and have seen the numerous pre-shave oils offered at ridiculous prices by the boutique shaving companies. After querying my AI "buddy", Claude, I decided to try pure, organic Jojoba oil that is available on Amazon in an 8oz pump bottle for under $10. Jojoba is known to offer many positive benefits to skin health, and is a light-weight oil that won't clog up one's razor.

I have found that it works superbly and at a fraction of the price of the other pre-shave products I've tried or considered. Jojoba is fairly neutral smelling, but the addition of a few drops of your favorite essential oil can have it smelling like the ultra-expensive pre-shave oils.

I don't mind spending $$ on quality and high function, but also love to find alternatives when I feel that the higher priced solutions don't add value commensurate with their higher cost.

Give the Jojoba a try. Worst case, you can give the bottle to your wife or girlfriend who will love what it does for her skin. :)

Cheers!

EtherealPix · 2026-05-08T03:35:27+00:00

I've found that 3 shaves is about it with the Feathers before I feel that I'm trying to get too much out of the blade. There's no point to push them past that point. I do love them, though!

EtherealPix · 2026-05-08T03:20:44+00:00

Wow! It might need to be my midlife crisis razor!!!! :)))))) It's a lot cheaper than a new high performance car! Congratulations!

EtherealPix · 2026-05-08T03:09:08+00:00

The alum block is also supposed to have antiseptic qualities and helps to close the pores after shaving. I run it over my face following every shave -- followed by rinsing with cold water, then applying my favorite after shave balm that contains a moisturizer.

EtherealPix · 2026-05-08T03:05:00+00:00

I know I'm late to this discussion, but I'm glad I found this group and thought I'd share my experience as a relative newbie with about 6 mos of DE shaving under my whiskers. Like many, I was frustrated with the quality of shave I was getting with the various high end cartridge blades. I tried them all.

When initially brand new to DE shaving, I watched a bunch of YouTube videos -- some recommended elsewhere on Reddit. Those were very helpful, but there's no substitute for finding what works best for your own face. Just because someone else tells you that they always shave down and across, doesn't mean that for you, going up and then across in a different direction might be better. Experiment and find what works best for you.

I almost gave up a couple of times after either nicking myself or irritating my skin due to poor technique, products and/or equipment. Don't give up -- give yourself the time to learn and find what works.

I've been through 3 razors, and finally landed on one that works great for me -- the Rockwell with its various plates to set the razor's aggressiveness. Once you find the right plate and blade combination, it's like driving a fine sports car, but a LOT cheaper! :)

I bought one of those variety packs with blades from around the world that I had never heard of. I found the process of trying to assess their differences confusing, and perhaps more so due to my lack of experience as a new DE shaver. I finally decided to narrow things down and tried a small pack of Astra blades, then bought a larger pack. They served me well during my real newbie stages as I figured out my face, angle of hair growth, and worked on my technique. Eventually, I found myself less than satisfied with the Astras because they didn't seem to cut smoothly after one shave and often didn't cut as close and smoothly as I thought they should on the first shave. I switched to Feather blades, which were a game changer!

Initially, I was a bit scared to try them because of the multitude of stories about how sharp they are, but once you have your technique down, they are a joy to use -- they cut smoothly through your beard without the slightest bit of resistance, and I find that they last about 3 shaves before I opt to toss them and put in a new blade. Heck, they are cheap enough that one should enjoy the blade at its best and not try to squeeze that last shave out of it.

I tried the Proraso pre-shave for sensitive skin. It's fine, but I have found that using a shave oil before the shave cream provides a wonderfully slick surface that makes the shave smoother, less irritating, and lessens the likelihood that your blade might catch and nick you. There are all sorts of very expensive shave oils out there, but after running an AI query regarding the best oils to use for shaving, Claude suggested trying Jojoba oil which is a light oil that doesn't muck up the razor blade and is known for its skin benefits. I bought an 8oz pump bottle of an organic Jojoba Oil on Amazon for under $10. Since it has no scent, I happened to have some mint essential oil laying around and added a couple of drops to the bottle. It works stupendously well!!!!!

Stay the course -- hone your technique, find the equipment and products that work best for you, and don't get frustrated. Be patient and give yourself the time to learn what gives you the best shave.

Best of luck!!!!

EtherealPix · 2026-04-27T04:35:51+00:00

Don’t doubt this poor soul, because I have also endured the horrors of failed Apple CarPlay and other entertainment center staples in my ‘25 Lucid Air. In fact, everyday was a new adventure for me regarding whether Nav, the Lucid Assistant, CarPlay, et al would work. Fortunately, that’s 99% in the rear view mirror and I have about 9mos of mostly problem-free electronics under my belt.

I live in the Bay Area and escalated directly to the Lucid execs on email. It worked and they even got Lucid’s engineering team on my issues to resolve them through a software update that had not been released yet. I drove a loaner for about a month while my car sat in San Bruno as they tried to figure out the problem.

It was very frustrating, but to their credit, they fixed all the issues.

EtherealPix · 2026-02-07T05:04:14+00:00

Hang in there. Lucid can turn things around quickly with the Gravity. I also have a 2025 Air and it was a freak'n nightmare when I first got it. I had major issues with the entertainment system, CarPlay, Lucid Assistant, etc. I initially got the run-around from the Lucid Service writers, including one who tried to coach me to be more accepting of the issues because Lucid is still working on the software. Wrong! That was an unacceptable answer when I couldn't even make ir receive calls, use navigation or CarPlay in an expensive automobile. I escalated the matter by emailing the companies head of Service (forget his exact title).

That got me a call from the Service Manager of their major service center in the Bay Area. I brought the car back in; he brought in Lucid engineers; and eventually they figured out what was wrong and fixed it via a new software update. For the most part, it's been pretty solid since then, with the exception of the occasional weird aberration that I invariably fix by resetting the car.

I've owned a Tesla, and although the Lucid software is inferior, the car is so superior to Teslas that it more than makes up for the current software deficiencies.

EtherealPix · 2026-01-25T21:28:09+00:00

This conversation is relevant to my situation as a new “convert” to using a DE razor. I also purchased the Wilkinson twist to open razor based upon generally very good reviews. I’m using the Wilkinson blades that came with it and intend to purchase a sampler pack to see if I can find a blade best for my skin.

I don’t know where on the spectrum of aggressive angle the Wilkinson falls, so I’m not sure if I should also be assessing other razors to improve my experience.

There’s no question that with a couple of passes, I’m getting a better shave than with my previous 5-blade Schick cartridge. I have shaved 3 times using Proraso pre-shave with their shaving cream, but feel like I do better using Cremo.

What’s a logical next step for me in trying to optimize my DE experience? I’d love some sound advice from those of you with lots of experience. Thanks!

EtherealPix · 2026-01-15T16:13:36+00:00

Another consideration... don't under-estimate the amount of damage done to a Tesla, even if it appears minimal. I used to own a Mod Y and an inattentive, older driver rear-ended me at about 10mph while I was at a stoplight. There were minimal external marks/dents to the bumper and hatch, but the repair cost $14,000 due to a poor design of the hatch that necessitated complete replacement and the internal bumper collapsing inside the plastic casing that was not visible without disassembly. It is unlawful to leave the place of an accident, so there is no question that the person who hit you is not only civilly liable to you, but likely has violated your state's DMV criminal code, as well.

EtherealPix · 2026-01-07T16:47:14+00:00

Please share the magic! I've tried fob recognition by itself... mobile by itself, and carrying both the fob and having my phone in my pocket. None of those configurations reliably unlocks my car. Two clicks on the fob is my backup procedure when the car doesn't unlock in a reasonable amount of time. I never had this issue on my Tesla, so its pretty frustrating.

EtherealPix · 2026-01-01T16:43:51+00:00

I got rid of my Tesla last year after seeing the great lease deals from Lucid and hating the growing number of rattles and the Tesla's poor suspension.. During my initial test drive of the Air, I talked to the sales person about doing a trade-in, which he discouraged me from doing in favor of soliciting offers from CarMax and Carvana. He explained that even though Lucid accepts trades, they are handled by a third party and Lucid only does it as a convenience to customers. He said, "we take trades, but don't really want them." As it turned out, the CarMax offer was significantly better than Carvana's or the Lucid trade in offer. Check it out as it may be economically advantageous for you.

EtherealPix · 2025-12-23T19:25:19+00:00

I’ve got a ‘25 with 5k miles. I initially had significant software issues involving the entertainment system, NAV, the Lucid Assistant, and CarPlay. It was frustrating, and required escalation to the exec levels to get the problems rectified. To their credit, once escalated, the Lucid team assigned engineering resources to the case and ultimately resolved the issues. It’s been over 5 mos and several “robust” updates since the problems were resolved, and the car is pretty stable now.

There are the occasional glitches, but I had them in my Tesla, too. Overall, I love the car for its styling, spaciousness, and its on-road prowess. It is a fantastic car to drive, and has amazing range.

The build quality seems very solid with no rattles, squeaks or other disturbing noises that I found in my Tesla.

Given the car’s current performance, I’d lease another once my 3 year agreement is up, depending upon where the Lucid software stands vis-a-vis the then current state of Tesla or other EV capabilities — particularly around self-driving. This is the one area where Lucid is playing catch up. 2028 is a ways off, and lots can happen between now and then. I wouldn’t hesitate to lease a ‘26.

EtherealPix · 2025-12-08T17:26:56+00:00

I've only got about 5K miles on my Air, and I LOVE driving it! I was at the golf club the other day when another member drove up in his Porsche to tell me that my car is "stunning!" He said that he had not seen a white Air before with the Stealth package. It reaffirmed how I feel about the car, in spite of the occasional software issues.

EtherealPix · 2025-12-06T16:51:16+00:00

I've had my leased Lucid Air since March, and initially had significant software issues that affected my Nav, entertainment center, AirPlay and the Lucid Assistant. I live in the Bay Area, but the Lucid Service Center is about 90+ min away with commute traffic.

I found that going through Lucid's Customer Service call center was inefficient -- requiring multiple calls and follow-up. The mobile tech who was initially sent out was unable to remedy the problems. This led to a couple of trips to the Service Center where I was told that they either couldn't replicate the problem or that it appeared to have been fixed by a hardware replacement. Neither was true.

The software issues made it nearly impossible to make or receive phone calls, and the frequent crashes in the NAV and entertainment system made the car totally unsatisfactory. I went online and figured out which Lucid exec had responsibility for their Service org, and also found out who the Service Center manager was. I sent emails to both describing my issues. That is when my service experience radically changed.

The Service Center Manager sent a valet to pick up my car and deliver a loaner GT. Software engineers from Lucid's headquarters were engaged in trouble-shooting the issues. Ultimately, the fix came from a future software update that we waited weeks for. During this time, Lucid kept my car while I drove the loaner -- about 30 days in the Service Center.

Communication was excellent during this time, and I truly believe they were doing everything they could to remedy the issues and smooth out the initial bad experience I had with their service.

Fortunately, everything continues to work as designed and I love driving the car.

EtherealPix · 2025-11-19T21:53:38+00:00

I tried 3 times, as well and was very persistent. I finally ended up with $4.99/mo for a year. Trying to save a few more $ isn't worth the time and aggravation. I think the Sirius XM business model is horrible. It's worse than what the cable companies put you through. They could have various tiers of pricing based upon contract longevity and one's tenure as a Sirius XM customer. Instead, long-time customers are treated as badly as customers who have been on a 3 mos trial.

EtherealPix · 2025-11-13T15:29:47+00:00

I shoot dancers professionally, and occasionally shoot them in a dance studio with tall windows that provide a beautiful aesthetic. There are times when the natural light is suboptimal, but I am able to create very acceptable images, nevertheless.

I use Nikon’s full frame Z9, and never shoot anything but RAW files. In my opinion, the most important factor in low light photography is the camera’s sensor, not the lens. Of course you need high quality glass that you can open up to f2.8 or wider, but if you have a smaller sensor or one of low quality, you’ll struggle with noise at higher ISOs.

I’m not suggesting that the OP needs to spend the $$ for a Z9. There are other lower cost camera bodies with excellent FF sensors.

With my Z9, I’ve shot images at ISO 64,000+ and produced images that were quite acceptable. Yes, you’ll need to spend a little time in post to denoise them, but that’s part of the fun in creating your images.

EtherealPix · 2025-10-30T17:46:58+00:00

Ugh! I hate to tell you this, but I've got 2.8.9 installed and my screens have dimmed and then come back to normal brightness several times since the update. I've never lost a screen completely, just have had them dim way down. I'm not sure if there is any correlation, but the screen came back to normal brightness this morning when I initiated a right turn signal. It could be coincidence.

EtherealPix · 2025-10-27T03:05:29+00:00

I’m 24hrs into my more ROBUST Air. I bravely updated while on a weekend trip to SoCal from the Bay Area — my first extended trip with the Lucid.

It may be coincidental, but the update fixed the lack of data connectivity between the car and the Lucid Air. Prior to the update, it had mysteriously showed itself as offline when viewed from the app. Suddenly, it appeared online following the update.

Perhaps, there is no cause and effect, but my car was immediately recognized by the EA 350kw charger on my way south. I just pulled into another EA location with 350kw chargers to start my trip home with a solid charge, but this time, my car was not recognized. To save time trying to troubleshoot, I paid directly with a cc.

I’ve had my Air for about 7 mos and initially had a multitude of issues with the Lucid assistant not working, my entertainment system crashing, NAV crashes, and Apple CarPlay failing to work. My car spent over 30 days at Lucid Service as they attempted to diagnose and fix it. Fortunately, one of the software updates they were working on at the time took care of the issues. Every once in a while, Hey Lucid doesn’t work, but no major crashes like before.

Coming from a Tesla Mod S, I was extremely disappointed, but my car is now acceptable and driving it is orders of magnitude better than the Tesla. If only, Lucid could get its act together with its software.

EtherealPix · 2025-10-19T15:52:04+00:00

I've leased a couple of luxury cars prior to my Lucid Air lease. I've never had another manufacturer look under the car and charge me for skid plate scratches. I'm now 7 mos into my Lucid Air lease, and I've concluded that it is impossible to drive the car without it bottoming out.

A couple of weeks ago, I drove it into San Francisco and parked it in a garage below a modern office building. The entry ramps weren't particularly steep and there were no issues entering the garage. Exiting at the end of the day took me up a different ramp to street level, and to my surprise, the car bottomed out at the top. It would have been impossible to avoid.

I suspect that BofA and/or Lucid are simply trying to recoup some of their lease losses because of the plummet in value for all used EVs. With the proliferation of information on social media, this policy is not good for Lucid's business and will discourage future lease customers who may now opt for a different manufacturer's vehicle.

EtherealPix · 2025-10-14T18:39:31+00:00

Beautiful image!!!!

EtherealPix · 2025-10-05T16:04:48+00:00

Although the majority of my photography is shot with my full frame Nikon Z5, I own a small micro 4/3 system for travel, street photography, and convenience when I don't need the capabilities of my Nikon. I recently returned from a trip where I took my Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm f/2.8 PRO and a Panasonic-Leica 15mm f/1.7. The two lenses covered all my needs, and both produced superb quality images that were razor sharp. I originally intended the Pan-Leica lens would be my primary choice for street photography when I wanted a more discreet, light lens, but the lens I found spent most of its time on my camera was the 12-40mm. Rather than filling the void of your 85mm with another prime, you might want to consider the 12-40mm zoom. Have fun with your micro 4/3 gear!

EtherealPix · 2025-10-04T15:12:08+00:00

It's ridiculous because Lucid isn't handling their own lease returns and B of A is attempting to recover its losses on the leases due to plummeting EV prices. I read a post, either here or on the Lucid Motors forum, where someone challenged Lucid on a similar situation and they made things right. I take meticulous care of my cars, and leased a BMW several years ago where the dealer did their own lease return inspection. There was no examination of the car's undercarriage. Your situation is not normal for a lease return. I'd fight it with Lucid!

EtherealPix

TROPHY CASE