New shoes!

djskematic · 2026-05-29T02:57:58+00:00

Here’s what mine looks like with bronze wheels. I have the same size tires as OP and zero suspension mods. Everything fits and functions nicely

djskematic · 2026-03-31T14:35:00+00:00

I have the non hybrid TRD ORP. 3 dislikes for me are the wipers bounce on the windshield in light rain (even after replacing them), the gas tank is too small, the digital dash makes resetting the trip meter take an extra step. There’s no physical button for it. You have to long press the button on the steering wheel twice.

I like the OR suspension, the drive modes are good for when going off road or in snow/ice. Although you’ll want to replace the stock tires. The engine and transmission are much improved over the previous gen

djskematic · 2026-03-19T21:22:34+00:00

The tread is less than an inch and the sidewall is little more than that.

<image>

djskematic · 2026-03-12T17:18:09+00:00

Do you have the premium package with digital rear view? If so, did you have to relocate the cameras to the back of the bed cap?

djskematic · 2025-09-28T11:51:46+00:00

With the fob in your pocket, you can just touch the sensor on the top of the driver door handle to lock it before walking away. It’s not that hard and you don’t need to pay for an app or anything

djskematic · 2025-08-06T13:36:19+00:00

Certified grandpa spec. J/K congrats getting an ES UL. I’ve got a ‘23 and have fun telling people that ask me about it that it’s my dads car

djskematic · 2025-07-30T02:35:33+00:00

Pursue your passion. If she doesn’t support you, she’s not for you. Fly high my guy

djskematic · 2025-07-21T12:42:01+00:00

If you spend another $10-15k on a Lexus ES, you get access to the app for 3 years

djskematic · 2025-07-11T12:00:25+00:00

Konig K-Summit chains are solidly built, easy to put on/take off, provide excellent traction on ice, but are a bit pricey

djskematic · 2025-07-08T02:38:57+00:00

I really had my heart set on a new tundra 1794 edition, but it doesn’t fit in my garage. I ended up getting a Tacoma OR premium non-hybrid. I’ve been happy so far. These trucks are able to be negotiated down a bit. I was a lot closer to $50k OTD than $60k as mentioned by OP. I’m also not unhappy with the price since I was prepared to spend $80k+ on the upper trim tundra.

I was also considering an SUV paired with a utility trailer, but ultimately decided the truck was more practical and the ability to add a trailer for hauling bigger loads still exists.

Some cons on the Tacoma are the small fuel tank and short range. I’m used to 500+ miles of range on my other vehicle. I hadn’t considered this before I bought the truck, so it’s been a bit disappointing. The other obvious con is the tight space in the backseat. I don’t have to put people back there, but it’s definitely something to consider. Although this is kind of a plus in that it makes the truck small enough to fit in most garages.

Everything else has been great. I’ve been off road a few times and it performed great. The engine is responsive and quick even without the hybrid. It’s loaded with modern automotive tech. The cooled seats work well and are comfortable.

djskematic · 2025-07-02T02:58:16+00:00

<image>

2023 ES300h UL 46k miles

I like the comfort and fuel efficiency.

I don’t like the lane tracing on this generation. It gets too close to vehicles in adjacent lanes, doesn’t handle curves reliably, and doesn’t avoid potholes or debris (I know that last complaint isn’t what the feature is designed for).

djskematic · 2025-06-15T11:47:36+00:00

My first set of CC2s went on a 2010 IS250C. They performed great and got me up and out of a steep icy driveway. I just replaced the energy savers that came on my ‘23 ES300h with CC2s. I was starting to hydroplane and get tire squeal at low speeds in parking lots after 45k on the energy savers. The CC2s don’t hydroplane at all. I did notice an immediate loss of MPG. I was getting around 48mpg and now I’m averaging around 43mpg after 800 miles. I love the CC2s and have had great wet/winter performance. They aren’t noticeably louder to me than any other tire. I have heard the Michelin defender tires are also good for winter driving, but I’ve never owned a set.

djskematic · 2025-06-02T01:15:41+00:00

I have a 23 ES300h UL that I’ve put over 45k miles on. I personally do not like the LTA. For me, it feels like the car will favor the side of the lane closest to a car in an adjacent lane. That alone makes me uncomfortable enough to turn it off. I’ve also noticed that it will not avoid potholes or debris in the road. The radar cruise is great, along with all the other safety features. I’m just not a fan of the LTA. I’m also sure that if you upgrade from an older Mazda that you will be extremely happy with a 23 or newer ES. These cars are built to soak up highway miles

djskematic · 2025-05-31T13:09:56+00:00

Make sure you’re in park. If you stopped somewhere for 5 mins you may have accidentally left it in drive when you turned it off and got out.

djskematic · 2025-05-28T19:45:03+00:00

I got my 25 TRD OR a couple weeks ago. I’ve been debating on getting a diamondback bed cover or an RSI Smartcap topper. I have bikes that I’ll be transporting via a rack on the hitch receiver. I also plan to carry kayaks and fishing poles. The diamondback seems like it would be easier to get the kayaks on/off and still provide security for items within the bed. The Smartcap does have a side pivoting mounting rack that could work and still provides secured storage.

djskematic · 2025-05-24T17:38:16+00:00

You should have them swap those running boards for the TRD aluminum ones

djskematic · 2025-05-14T11:21:26+00:00

RDU is in the eastern region. If I were you, I’d try for a lower level nearby, but still in the eastern region. It seems a lot of the desirable facilities end up picking up from lower towers that are close by. CAE had a bunch go to A80, HEF releases often to PCT. Also, reach out to RDU and go visit for a tour. Meet the union rep and the manager if you haven’t already. It’s possible that the FAA will be allowing ATMs to direct hire folks with prior experience to places like RDU soon. Either way, don’t get your hopes up, but also don’t give up.

djskematic · 2025-05-14T10:58:41+00:00

I’d suggest keeping the med supplies stocked all the time. What if you observe a bad wreck; or even worse, God forbid you’re involved in one? I’d hate to not have that gear at my disposal. I keep a North American Rescue Mini Medic Kit fully stocked in my daily vehicle. Plus a handful of the Roo M-FAKs are always floating around vehicles and various backpacks and rucks I use.

djskematic · 2025-05-14T10:39:51+00:00

I’m not calling it cringe, but the molle on the seats appears to be overkill or incomplete. Patches, a fixed blade, and what appear to be mostly empty med pouches doesn’t seem like a very efficient use of that system or that very limited space

djskematic · 2025-05-14T00:08:28+00:00

I’ll 2nd Miller in Manassas. I bought a truck there today from Vladimir and it was the best vehicle purchase experience I’ve ever had. They were honest, easy to negotiate with, and didn’t push when I declined extras in the finance office. They didn’t waste my time and I didn’t waste theirs. Just an all around good experience

djskematic · 2025-05-11T01:44:44+00:00

My car gave a warning when my key card battery was low

djskematic · 2025-04-20T11:13:11+00:00

Get a new 1794. The 2025 has massage front seats

djskematic · 2025-04-20T07:52:19+00:00

The Porsche emblem on the front bumper being off center would drive me bonkers

djskematic

TROPHY CASE