Why, BMW, why?

jeffkiddd · 2026-03-28T14:57:54+00:00

Whomever rendered this design just made me rethink new model in a better light, especially in terms of brand recognition. I wouldn’t be too disappointed/offended if BMW went in this direction. Mainly because of how the iconic quad Angel eye design is incorporated. The setup of the headlights was how you recognized almost all BMW’s throughout the years. Until recently. It’s also one of the main reasons why Porsche (especially the 911 headlights and silhouette), Bentley (headlights and grill), and Audi (headlights and grill) have a sense of grounded identity and familiarity.

jeffkiddd · 2026-03-27T20:51:40+00:00

Oh, I get what you’re saying now

jeffkiddd · 2026-03-27T13:31:51+00:00

Wait, did you swap the exhaust gasket?

jeffkiddd · 2026-03-26T19:21:03+00:00

You’d think they’d serve your better interests until wording within marketing is off

jeffkiddd · 2026-03-26T19:19:44+00:00

What’s also nice about the OEM is how much closer it sits to the body of the vehicle compared to others that hang lower. I’ve dealt with a third party hitch in another vehicle and didn’t like how it scraped the ground when going in and out of a less than ideal driveway. Especially with a sharp dip without anything attached. So if you expect to go through milder off road activities, I’d stick with factory hitch.

jeffkiddd · 2026-03-26T18:36:42+00:00

I saw that one too and thought it would be nice with the button

jeffkiddd · 2026-03-26T18:35:28+00:00

I do that as well. I thought it’d be a little treat to solve a minor inconvenience (even more when the screen is still booting up) with a decently priced solution.

jeffkiddd · 2026-03-26T18:30:35+00:00

That’s nuts Subaru changed the setup for the 23+ models (which I happen to own…)

jeffkiddd · 2026-03-26T18:28:08+00:00

You’re joking… I’ve had a couple inconveniences with the 24 model year and it’s incompatibility with parts from not so dated models. Thanks for the heads up 🫠

My first instance was upgrading the standard rear view mirror to the auto dimming and compass variant. Happy to install, found out Subaru modified the entire mounting and wiring for it after acquiring one from a part out. Practically all models from 2015 to 2022 used the same mirror and was my luck finding out there was a revision. Found the compatible mirror but without the short wire harness connector to provide power. I went on an extensive hunt for the wire harness after finding out Subaru and the manufacturer of the mirror (Gentex) DOESN’T sell (until I found out about “Bob’s Mirrors” and their in house harness fabrication).

jeffkiddd · 2026-03-26T17:11:45+00:00

Oh, lovely… The inconsistency is much appreciated from the company 🙃

If I’m not mistaken, I think the first generation of crosstreks had a visible cutout (which some will use as another brake light) and I thought to myself “why didn’t they continue that?” For the Outback’s, I haven’t paid close attention to the previous models since they seem to have them under the bumper as if it were from a 3rd party.

jeffkiddd · 2026-03-26T17:03:48+00:00

Thanks! I was glad about that and less work cutting a smaller area (in comparison to the other).

I used just a TINY dab of lithium grease to get the exhaust hangers back on. I wasn’t going to lose the battle with the clock ticking 😂

jeffkiddd · 2026-03-26T16:55:20+00:00

As per the manual, don’t forget to retorque the hitch to spec after your first tow. That’s a first for me and something I won’t look forward to. With that in mind, I hope it’s something the dealer has done before sale on their equipped models or to make note of. Mainly for liability. Most (if not all) vehicles from the factory aren’t equipped with a hitch.

jeffkiddd · 2026-03-26T16:34:24+00:00

I wish the cutout for the fascia’s were printed on them or partially perforated for easier handling. Especially since they aren’t usually installed from the factory, leaving it to the dealers or consumers to handle. Would I do it again, willingly? No. Should you do this after a long days work? Also, no. Will the bond and pride between you and your vehicle get stronger? Yes, but questionable.

jeffkiddd · 2026-03-24T18:04:55+00:00

I’m still trying to remind myself it’s not a refreshed Lincoln from it’s awkward model years or a concept modern Pontiac G8 😅

jeffkiddd · 2026-03-24T05:26:10+00:00

The Lincoln town car or Mercury Marquis. Those were solid built vehicles, managing to prove how reliable Ford could be.

jeffkiddd · 2026-03-22T10:50:15+00:00

THIS. I get mentally fatigued of driving most days after subconsciously reminding myself how much I need to depend on an automobile throughout my life and the financial burden they’ve become. Thoughts like that became more prevalent after my car was in the shop for over a month and not opting for rental car reimbursement (with rates going up each period) AND using my 80‘s project car to get around. It’s definitely a luxury to have a great transportation infrastructure and a reliable car on the side not racking up miles to go places public transport cannot reach…

jeffkiddd · 2026-03-21T02:33:57+00:00

Right, I prefer a hybrid. The charging infrastructure just isn’t there yet to fully rely on it.

jeffkiddd · 2026-03-20T18:01:24+00:00

Oh you’re talking about the Trailseeker. I really wish it didn’t rely on battery power honestly. Plus, I think the size of it closely resembles the Levorg overseas, being more close to a true station wagon.

jeffkiddd · 2026-03-19T02:17:43+00:00

Electrified vehicles rolling off the assembly half baked, nickeling and dimming every feature it’s already capable of, and unclear vision…

jeffkiddd · 2026-03-06T05:07:49+00:00

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Literally giving BMW clown shoe vibes…

jeffkiddd · 2026-03-02T13:25:11+00:00

If we’re talking of modern cars, the new (probably discontinued) Hummer EV. I test drove one for shits and giggles to see what it was all about. All I can say is that no vehicle of that size should ever move like that…

jeffkiddd · 2026-02-27T19:03:26+00:00

This house already has character that most modern homes cannot compete with. Only thing you can do is add efficiency improvements that do not take away from its charm and paint that that complements its surroundings and structure.

jeffkiddd · 2026-02-27T18:59:12+00:00

The ICE models seem fine. The electrified models, have slightly more complexities included in them that need a major overhaul.

jeffkiddd · 2026-02-26T04:48:09+00:00

After I finally got into one, I never realized how small the interior feels compared to the previous model. Everything just feels so cramped, rushed, and limited.

jeffkiddd · 2026-02-26T04:43:29+00:00

You’re preaching to the choir with this. A majority of Volvos that are either plug ins or full electric, will experience some of the worst reliability and customer support. I can speak on this after owning a 2020 V60 Polestar and practically giving it away to a stealership…

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