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chalkd
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I'm thinking of buying a car, but wondered if anyone has any advice on models to avoid here in Bangkok (bad manufacturing, crap customer service, etc) or anything I should definitely try to test drive based on your own experiences.
I'm looking for something bigger than Vios/City - have test driven a Wish and was thinking about the Ford Escape. Or maybe a Kia, although I don't think they have the new version of the Sportage here yet. It got pretty good reviews in the UK though.
I've been asking around, but wondered if anyone had heard about good promotions from any of the dealers at the moment too - Ford supposedly still offer 0% interest over 60 months, but has anyone got/heard of good deals elsewhere?
Finally, there's a motor show coming up in December and I wondered if anyone had bought at a show before and whether it was worth it?
Edit in - sorry forgot to mention my budget is B1.5 m or less.
Cheers,
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Thai Girls : Meet Sexy Thai Girls
Posted on: 10:49 pm on Nov. 15, 2005
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scobie
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The Toyota Fortuner is getting rave reviews on another expat board. Seems it's so popular that there are supply chain issues, but a few dealers seem to be able to deliver in a few days if you want one. Pricing is around 1.15-1.3 depending on the model. I know sod all about cars, but it seems a huge hunk of metal for a reasonable price.
One point though. If you're buying on credit, you'll need a Thai guarantor - someone with a relatively good income stream or assets worth more than the loan. Not always easy to find.
I think that stipulation is generally waived if the farang puts up 50% of the price as a deposit.
There's a company specialising in helping farang buy cars. They have a website, but buggered if I can find it. I know they occasionally advertise in Bkk Post.
There's a guy called terdsak on another forum who works for them. Seems a decent bloke. I'm not sure if we're allowed to promote that other forum here, so PM me for the URL and you can send a private message to terdsak.
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Bangkok Women : Meet Sensual Bangkok Women
Posted on: 11:01 pm on Nov. 15, 2005
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ftumch
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chalkd
At that price point you are looking at a locally made or ckd model rather than an import. So build quality will be variable. I bought a locally made BMW a couple of years ago and it was terrible. I swapped it for a Honda Accord and it was fantastic. But a while ago Honda had big problems with their CRV, lots of dissatisfied customers (including one who drove it thru a showroom window). So you'd better ask around and do your homework.
GE finance used to lend to expats without a Thai guarantor although as Scobie says you may have to put down a sizeable deposit. I don't know if they still do.
I also echo Scobie's comments on the Fortuner. A mate in BKK just bought one for his missus. A fantastic drive and a huge amount of car for the money.
EDIT IN:
Having said all that, do you really need one? Unless you are travelling outside BKK regularly, you do not. They are not easy to get rid of (lots of used cars around - look at the magazine stands!) so you will lose money, parking is a pain, it's a high initial cost and monthly fixed costs are high. Divide all that by the number of miles you will do and you will lose big time. My cars were provided by my company. I would never dream of spending my own money.
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Thai Girls : Meet Sexy Thai Girls
Posted on: 11:50 pm on Nov. 15, 2005
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chalkd
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Thanks for the replies - looks like I need to put the Fortuner on the list of test drives too then.
I've got some Thai friends who will help me with the actual buying, so I don't think I'll need to use the company you mention, but thanks for the info, scobie.
With regards to the decision to buy instead of say long term leasing, hiring on special occasions, using taxis, etc, there are a few other factors in play which mean buying is necessary.
Ftumch, what do you think the chances are of me being able to find a model that has space above the radiator for a pet hamster?
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Bangkok Girls : Meet Sexy Bangkok Girls
Posted on: 2:29 am on Nov. 16, 2005
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bkkfella
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I bought a Toyota Altis and love it.
It is very solid and comfortable and even fits my big 6'2" frame. Plus Toyota has great ratings here and top resale values. Nothing like driving around in your own AC'd bubble listening to your own music. No walking thru the humid heat or rain to the BTS. Taxi fees add up if you live here. Parking is available at all large buildings and often it is free if you buy something like at MBK or Emporium.
Renting is an option too but more expensive in the long run. I recommend that first to be sure you want to own.
JMHO
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Thai Women : Meet Matured Thai Women
Posted on: 2:38 am on Nov. 16, 2005
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Meatywsg
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Avoid second hand - I didn't, BIG mistake.
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Bangkok Women : Meet Beautiful Thai Girls
Posted on: 2:53 am on Nov. 16, 2005
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ftumch
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Quote: from chalkd on 4:07 pm on Nov. 16, 2005
Ftumch, what do you think the chances are of me being able to find a model that has space above the radiator for a pet hamster?
That is certainly possible (although cruel?). May I suggest that this year the more discerning owner is going for the Wodent Wheel as it is more in keeping with the car's lines and therefore more pleasing to the eye. Available in 3 colours to match your paint and interior trim selection. Stategically placed on the bonnet or roof, imagine the thrill as the wind rushes through Hammy (or is it Hazel?) 's fur when you floor the accelerator.
http://www.petwebsite.com/hamsters/hamster_exercise_wheel.htm
You could also connect the wheel to the car's charging system to keep the battery topped up like this kid.
http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_1513938.html
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Bangkok Girls : Meet Attractive Thai Girls
Posted on: 4:31 am on Nov. 16, 2005
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Mel Gibson
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If your after reliablility there is only one word for it
TOYOTA, there cars are "bullet proof" there manufacturing processes and quality control has been the model of learning for over 20 years,,,,can't beat that
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Thai Girls : Meet Active Thai Girls
Posted on: 8:18 am on Nov. 16, 2005
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ringthebells
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don't buy JEEP. poor service.
rtb
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Thai Women : Meet Matured Thai Women
Posted on: 8:59 am on Nov. 16, 2005
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Baskoy
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I bar fined a girl called Jeep and she gave very good service
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Bangkok Girls : Meet Attractive Thai Girls
Posted on: 10:32 am on Nov. 16, 2005
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