| kruzo |
Just to give you heads up -- I am working out a deal with
some Honda retailer to provide to the members of honda-pilot
the rates on Pilot accessories that are consistently better then
Honda-Acura World by about 10% or more. I am still in the process on confirming
the details which will take a coupe more days, but if this works out
(and I am hopeful), there will be no more need create groups of
10 --- our whole community of Pilot owners (and wannabees like
myself) will represent a group and get the discount we deserve.
Stand by for updates.
:1: |
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| MDXlite |
Take into account other discounted resources available such as:
handaparts.com
hondapartsforyou.com
collegehillshonda.com
hondaautomotiveparts.com
hparts.com
4hondaparts.com |
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| hondacuraworld |
quote:
Originally posted by kruzo
if this works out
(and I am hopeful), there will be no more need create groups of
10 --- our whole community of Pilot owners (and wannabees like
myself) will represent a group and get the discount we deserve.
I always offered the specials as a "thank you" to the members of the site for their continued support of Hondacuraworld, through the good times and the rough. That's another reason I'm here helping wherever and whenever I can, posting every day and helping to support this site financially.
I had no idea that group buys and monthly specials were perceived as an insult. |
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| SoapPlant |
quote:
Originally posted by hondacuraworld
I always offered the specials as a "thank you" to the members of the site for their continued support of Hondacuraworld, through the good times and the rough. That's another reason I'm here helping wherever and whenever I can, posting every day and helping to support this site financially.
I had no idea that group buys and monthly specials were perceived as an insult.
:32:
I'm not insulted! I'm grateful! Even without group buys or monthly specials, you're still offering this stuff up at WELL below the dealer's "cost". I consider it a bonus.
:2:
I think you ended up saving me well over $500 on my rather sizable order, over the dealer "cost" installed. Ended up saving enough to cover 1/2 of my sunroof! If you're ever in town again, I'll treat you to a nice big juicy steak on the grill! |
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| kruzo |
I have not looked at EVERY one of them,
but I did look at a couple, and the prices
seem about %10 lower. I still don't have
all the details. Once I do -- I will post
the prices, and anyone can make a decision
he/she think works.
quote:
Originally posted by MDXlite
Take into account other discounted resources available such as:
handaparts.com
hondapartsforyou.com
collegehillshonda.com
hondaautomotiveparts.com
hparts.com
4hondaparts.com
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| kruzo |
I can not speak for others, but I don't think
I mentioned anything about being insulted :confused:
I mean I am insulted by how my dealer treats
me with my $35K purchase, but that's about
it :) Anything you or others can offer to us,
the customers I consider a bonus. Very grateful
indeed :6:
All I was saying is that I came a cross another
supplier who is willing to treat all the members
of this board as one large buying group, so
that we don't have to look for 9 others or wait
for a special when one of us needs a set of wheel locks.
I think this makes sense :4: Obviously
everyone is free to continue to order from whomever.
Just good old Capitalism in action :1:
Hope nobody is insulted here :7:
quote:
Originally posted by hondacuraworld
I had no idea that group buys and monthly specials were perceived as an insult.
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| chinalfr |
Hi Tim,
Don't fell bad. It's just nature for most member to search for vendors that will help us to save $$$.
I think you did a great job to all the member. Keep it up, man.
:4: |
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| SoapPlant |
quote:
Originally posted by kruzo
...I mean I am insulted by how my dealer treats
me with my $35K purchase...
:32:
I was just saying the same exact thing to my wife the other day! |
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| TheWorm |
Wow. I didn't bother even checking this thread before, since I figured it'd be the usual "we don't need group buys since Tim's prices and service are unparalleled." I'm surprised, and kinda saddened.
I've known + dealt with Tim for close to 2 years now. In addition to being a totally straight-up and honest guy providing an incredible level of service, he's been supportive of both the MDX and Pilot sites with specials, group buys, contests, "test drives" of new gear, and other events. He's been an asset to the MDX owners well beyond just giving us deals on gear.
I obviously can't speak for Honda accessories, but I can tell you with certainty that on the MDX gear, Tim is and always has been the lowest price. On rare occassion we've seen a piece of equipment for a couple of bucks less, but taking into account Tim's free shipping, he's come out lower every time. Add in the superlative service pre- and post-sale, and he's unbeatable in my book.
I suppose if you're gonna just do a one-shot deal from a vendor and don't care about the long-term relationship for parts, accessories, advice, and general assistance, then it makes little difference from whom you purchase.
IMO Tim's support of the sites, and even moreso the owners through his participation, has earned some measure of loyalty. Somehow going elsewhere to save a few bucks just doesn't seem right. But then, my relationship and experience w/Tim is longer than most Pilot owners have @ this point.
I'm not suggesting anyone throw money away (if that's how you look at it), but even if Tim were a few bucks more than other dealers, he'd still be getting my business. Every day of the week. |
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| sagepilot |
Let me say, I think most would agree that HAW provides terrific service at a great price.
I would like to acknowledge the efforts of some people (Kruzo specifically) that invest a great deal of time and effort for the benefit of all.
I recently installed the Michelin CT upgrade that Kruzo put together
after getting nothing for trade-in on my own.
I believe Kruzo is simply trying to provide owners with another buying option when searching for accessories at a good price.
Keep up the good work - EVERYONE. |
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| srpbep |
Wow ... can't believe that anyone would say anything less than "Tim at Hondacuraworld walks on water":
** Tim's NORMAL prices seem to be 20+% below Honda's MSRP on everything.
** Tim runs specials periodically, providing increased savings.
** Tim lets owners "pick specials" if there is enough interest in a given accessory [called Group Buys].
** Tim's prices INCLUDE shipping.
** Tim has always been there when I have had a question. From what I can tell, he has been there when others have had questions.
Maybe you want to spend your day looking for the best price on each and every accessory. Me, no way!! I would rather pick up the phone, call Tim, and KNOW that I am getting a good price on EVERYTHING THAT I BUYING.
Out of curiosity ... how many of you paid below MSRP for your Pilots and I will bet that you spent a lot of time looking!! Better yet, what kind of "deal" did the dealer offer on accessories ... geesh ... |
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| kruzo |
quote:
Originally posted by srpbep
Wow ... can't believe that anyone would say anything less than "Tim at Hondacuraworld walks on water":
Look, I am not prepared to debate wheather Tim walks on water or not.
In fact I believe you if you say he does. :26:
My motivation is very simple to illustrate w/o going too far:
There is a parallel thread that has been running for a while now
-- group buy on Fog Lights:
quote:
If we can get 15 people, I will drop the price down to $259.00 shipped
The regular price is $299, vs. $389 MSRP. How can it get any better?
If we can pull it off (this deal I am negotiating), the price
will be $245 including shipping. No specials. No "15 people party, your table's ready".
Every day. Same price, as long as you are a Honda Pilot.org member.
I thought this is GOOD
:8:
If this is all about loyalty and not free
enterprise, why do we have a Fog Light Buyer's Group running
since June -- doesn't it hurt Tim's margins:confused: |
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| hondacuraworld |
Let me state that I have no problem with what you're doing....I was however a bit put off by the tone of your post. If somebody can beat my group buy on the foglights, make it an everyday special, and manage to stay in business on the internet, God bless them. If they can undercut me and be profitable and helpful to the members here as well, and find time to provide the owners with information and support and handling issues without question I will tip my hat to them and acknowledge them as being able to do something I cannot.
What has been proven to those that have doubted my belief is that internet sales are driven purely on price alone in the vast majority of cases, a fact that I have come to realize a long time ago. I've never at any time quieted talk about other parts sites, nor will I....what I have always said is that there are many websites on the internet offering factory accessories, and that my only hope was to be considered among them in purchase decisions. If you call my number, and ask for me (in the rare case I don't answer myself), I'm always there. I take pride in that.
May the best vendor prevail. |
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| texrb |
quote:
Originally posted by hondacuraworld
...........If somebody can beat my group buy on the foglights, make it an everyday special, and manage to stay in business on the internet, God bless them. If they can undercut me and be profitable and helpful to the members here as well, and find time to provide the owners with information and support and handling issues without question I will tip my hat to them and acknowledge them as being able to do something I cannot...............
If you call my number, and ask for me (in the rare case I don't answer myself), I'm always there. I take pride in that.
May the best vendor prevail.
Well said Tim........that is why I, and many others over at acuramdx.org are very pleased with Tim's sales & service. I have learned long ago that service is just as important as price and Tim has gone the extra mile to ensure every one of his customers has been happy with their purchase. Certainly there is nothing wrong with price shopping.....just don't forget the service piece.
This is a very new forum.......please do your research before you buy & don't hesitate to visit acuramdx.org & ask others of their experience with various vendors. I think you'll find that there is a reason why many people choose Tim over other Acura & Honda vendors. Price & service ....both delivered with Integrity....that's an unbeatable combination :4: |
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| jtm |
I can't said Tim offer the best on all the parts that he puts on sales everyday. But he does save me tons of money while I purchased accessories from him. [ plus great service & free shipping ]
Maybe you have trouble to get 10 or 15 people join the group buy, but I guess people in MDX doesn't.
Good Luck with your new deal. :) |
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| kruzo |
quote:
Originally posted by texrb
This is a very new forum.......please do your research before you buy & don't hesitate to visit acuramdx.org
Thanks, I just did, and this is what I found:
quote:
No respect !
Take a look at the disrespect Tim's getting over at the Pilot forum:
http://www.honda-pilot.org/forums/s...s=&threadid=806
Some guy is actually putting together another buying group that claims to have lower pricing. I don't know about the rest of you, but Tim's customer service and positive attitude is worth more than the measly 10% those guys think they are saving . . .
quote:
Tim is the Man! That’s for sure. His prices are the best I have seen and the service is great. What low class thing to do, under cut him on his own site some people have no class
And my personal favorite:
quote:
Honda Pilot owners
I have always thought of the Honda Pilot drivers as the Bastard child of Acura MDX world...
Always causing trouble and always eat more than it can chew...Come on guys...when the deal is good just take it...dont be such greedy little bastards...For God's sake Tim has to make a living too...
and
We all know that Pilot owners bought the Pilot cause they can not afford the MDX. So it would be in there nature to try to look for a cheap way out on Accessories.
http://acuramdx.org/forums/showthre...light=tim+pilot
Maybe I am missing something -- does this site belong to hondacurrawold? If so, I guess it would be improper of me
to mention any other retailers. Please calrify :confused: |
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| hondacuraworld |
I don't own this site.....in fact the only connection that I have here "officially" is that I pay for advertising here. I guess I just try to make the most of that and have fun and be helpful at the same time. It's been a winning combination thus far for everyone concerned.
And believe me when I say that I'm far from "walking on water". I make mistakes just like everyone else. Sometimes the effort you put forth to make things right in those instances can give you more of an opportunity to "prove your worth" and show that every order to you is not just a number...it's a real transaction with a real person built on a reputation of trust and kinship. That in and of itself is FAR more important than profit-taking, and as well it is tantamount to the relationships that develop out of people placing their hard-earned money and faith in you to deliver as promised.
I'm sorry for the flames that this thread has attracted, and I'm also sorry if this issue has developed on as a personal affront to you. I have no moderator status here to close threads....if I could, I would.
I think at this point it's best to just take a step back from my direct participation here for a bit to assure everyone a level playing field and to demonstrate that the loyalties I have built on the internet are that way for a reason. I'm really not such a bad guy when you get to know me. And now I'm going to tuck my little boy into bed and call it a night.
Peace all :) |
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| xyzzy |
This is wearing thin. Some of the guys over at the Acura site are getting pretty juvenile. I understand that they are doing it out of support for Tim, and it's great that they support him as he has supported them. However, it's gotten out of hand. Here is a copy of the message that I posted over there. Of course you would have to read their entire thread to fully understand what they've said.
In short, I feel that Kruzo has the right to discuss other buying options and Tim has a right to react to that given his commitment to this site. However, the shameless bashing going on at the other site is unjustified. Showing support for Tim is fine, but not like that.
Chris
(below is my response to a thread on acuramdx.org)
*********************************************
Sad
None of you should be proud of this thread. Absolutely pathetic.
I agree that Tim is very generous and consistently takes care of members from both the MDX and Pilot sites. However, if someone else wants to bring up the possibilties of another accessories provider, he has every right to do so. If he doesn't prefer a group buy type situation, then he has every right to find a system that best meets his needs. In the interest of sharing information, he posted his information for others to see. Tim took offense and that is understandable. It's human nature. But those of you sitting over here bashing the Pilot owner(s) like a bunch of 12 year olds is sad. Really sad. And I thought we were part of the family...
Chris
*********************************************** |
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| hondacuraworld |
My response to the same thread on www.acuramdx.org:
That kind of exploded in directions I hadn't expected it to. I thank you all for your kind words, but I want to say one thing....
In the vast majority of cyberspace, the only thing that drives the consumer is price......period. I try my absolute best to make sure I'm on top of the pack with the best price, but I'm also making the commitment to everyone that I'm not going anywhere. When I came aboard this website there were at best 200 members, and through almost 2 years of internet sales I've developed friends that I couldn't have dreamed possible.
Please don't flame that thread any further nor ridicule him for trying to get a better shake. I just know what I can afford to sell my wares for, and do the best I can. In return, everyone's been coming to me for their accessories purchase, which I truly appreciate. And because of this reciprocal relationship, I've managed to get a little pull at corporate to help people out in problems that they may encounter. I've never and will never turn away an Acura or Honda owner in need of help.
I've never considered owning a vehicle forum such as this because I didn't want to have free speech abridged on my behalf. My goal is to always stand on my own merits, and I am grateful to all of my friends here for coming to my defense. But in this instance, I may have to just work a bit harder to earn my stay there as I have done here. |
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| justacar |
Can we all just get along!
more please!:7: :7: :7: |
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| maik |
Living in a free enterprise system means that anyone can put up a shingle and has a right to attempt to earn a living. As Worm stated earlier, there are two aspects to most businesses, product delivery and customer service. My general experience through the years is that many companies offer one, but not both. Ya, maybe you can beat Tim's price by a small amount, but I would have a hard time believing that this new supplier would be able to provide the service that Tim has. Any time an MDX (or Pilot) owner has run into an issue, Tim has been there to help out. In some cases, putting MDX owners in touch with the appropriate corporate people to resolve issues.
I can only tell you that I have bought many of my accessories from Tim, and will continue to do so. The additional resource that I know I have in the event I need help is invaluable to me. If that costs me 14 bucks on a set of fog lights, then so be it. Very small price to pay for Tim's service, friendship and help. Through Tim, I know that I have a resource that I can call on at any time (via telephone) to discuss any issues I might have with my MDX or my dealer.
To me, this is very much worth the extra couple of dollars. |
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| xyzzy |
Maik,
Well said. I too believe in a service oriented business and make it a point to support them. I don't think Tim's service or integrity is being questioned here. Someone was simply looking for a good price without having to wait for a group buy. I can understand that as we are just getting our new vehicles and want to shower them with accessories in a hurry. He was sharing this information with others on the site and Tim took offense. I don't blame him for that, especially given the way the original post was titled. The biggest problem from all of this is how some (not all) of the X-heads responded. It's great that they feel a great amount of loyalty to Tim and I'm sure that he appreciates it. But some of the generalized bashing was simply uncalled for. Some might think that this is whining "are you getting your feelings hurt on some computer discussion forum?", but the reality is that at the end of all of these wires are people. We are a community and should treat each other with respect. We are no different than a local users group that meets for drinks and discusses a common interest. Worm and some other X-heads have come over and really given us some valuable input on discusssions. I love that. I think it's great that they take their time to come over and support us and (hopefully) learn something themselves. What happened with the bashing that took place as a result of this thread over on the X site was completely uncalled for.
Sorry for the rant.
Chris |
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| chinalfr |
What can I said?
Truthly, I :10: loved all the services, help & support provided by Tim at hondaacuraworld. But I also appreciated :) what Kruzo done for the group member.
Basically I support any individuals that share benefits for the group member. Thanks to both individuals that help & support all the member here.
We're all one big family (honda or acura). :14: (stop) :11: or :9: and start :7: and :18:
Cheers.... |
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| djs |
When I purchased my Pilot I bought the running boards, fog lights, trailer hitch w/coolers, rear mud guards and cargo tray with the Pilot. I did this because 1. these accessories were much cheaper than the two other dealers I had been to (by $300-400.). 2. They were then covered by the 36 month warranty (okay, not real important on the rear mud guards or cargo tray) 3. Although I had found this site and others I had really not discovered the HAW postings.
After I had taken delivery I then found HAW on this site. I kinda kicked myself on the mud guards and cargo tray but it was already history.
I ordered a full size alloy for a spare and ordered the all weather mats from Eric (Tim was out to lunch). I had to wait about 2 weeks for them because the alloy was not in stock. Not his fault.
Sometimes you cannot wait for group buys.
Overall I would say I have not done enough business with them to pass judgement. I did not deal with Tim directly and I think that makes a difference. Tim had come highly recommended on this site and the MDX site and I would not for a minute question it unless I had a different experience. So far I have not. Tim is very helpful on this site even in areas where he does not have to be.
I for one, will use HAW again. But I defend the right of any vender to sell his wares.
2003 #09131 SS EX |
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| MDXlite |
HAW promised monthly specials in lieu of group buys. Makes sense.
People on the Accessories forum are waiting for the August special.
Any ideas yet, Tim?...
I personally have purchased over $1200. worth of stuff from Tim and have also purchased a bunch from hondapartsforyou.com. Having both the Pilot and Odyssey makes it fun. I also help order for my neighbors' MDX, 3.2TL, two Accords and two CRV's!
They both provided great service, great prices and were easily accessible by phone. To me, I'm loyal to whomever provides me the best buying experience coupled with the highest added value.
I believe in 'spreading the wealth'. Keeps competitors competitive which benefits the consumer. Us.
Hats off to Kruzo for being a saavy shopper. Hats off to Tim for providing good service, and hats off to Tim's customers for supporting a quality vendor. Shame on all who deny anyone their freedom to shop. |
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| kruzo |
Just an update on the status.
I am in the final stages of setting up a buyers group for our
members. After the prices are finilized (should be tomorrow),
we'll start a trial period. Trial is both for us and for the supplier:
we have to see what kind of service we'll get, he needs to see if
we can generate enough volume for him to continue to offer these prices.
What I know so far is that
- The provider represents a dealership in Kingsport, TN that has been in business for over 20 years
- There will be a live phone number available for orderds and a specific contact that will work with us at all times.
- Any Honda parts purchased carrie an automatic 12/12 warranty. Warranty request can be made directy to the seller, or taken to a local dealer with the receipt, at your discretion. The local dealer must handle it as well, but it is really up to you.
- Prices will include shipping and handling. I believe you will like them :4:
Shipping is done by UPS Ground, but overnight FedEx
is available at nominal fee.
- While I have no personal experience ordering from the source,
I have been able to verify his E-Bay saler's record, and it is excellent: 2 negative from over 400 positive reviews in the period of last 2 years .
Having said that, please use due consumer diligence when ordering, ask any questions you might have to insure that your expectations are met. I believe once we hear from our satisfied members, we can relax our stance. The dealer is very much interested in in our busines, and I am sure will not jeopardize it.
- No restocking fees and 30 day money back guarantee (minus shipping) on all parts sold. Same day shipping on orders received by 12PM EST -- 90% of the time. If item is out of stock -- 2 days before
shipping. Please confirm availability upon ordering.
The prices will be finalized tomorrow. I will also post the instructions
on how to contact our supplier/seller and provide a group ID that
entitles you to these prices. Stand by for more.:20: |
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| Ms. MDX |
Kruzo,
I agree that some 'X members got carried away with their responses, but you have acted just as badly ... why did you post "brothers and sisters" on the General Discussion forum here?
I can only see one purpose for that post - why add gasoline to the fire? :confused: It will only serve to excite the extremeists in our groups and cause tension for the rest of us :(
Both forums are great and we all bought the vehicle that best met our needs, both are great choices.
Hey, see my post on 'X site about trying to get interest for a joint Meet for MDX & Pilot in Mass/New England. I might be afraid to post here after you get everyone wound up ... maybe I should change my screen name :eek:
Can we move on and be friends again :4: :17: :4: :17: |
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| catbert |
I know the Kingsport dealership this thread is referring to. I am from the general area that includes Kingsport. I can say that I have never heard anything negative about the dealership itself.
I am not really an "accessories person" (don't shoot me - I'm probably the only person on this site that doesn't plan to add anything to my vehicle that the factory didn't install, but that doesn't mean I won't love my car!). I posted this ONLY as information from a person who knows the dealership. I have no idea if they could surpass or match the service you get with Tim... |
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| kruzo |
quote:
Originally posted by Ms. MDX
Can we move on and be friends again :4: :17: :4: :17:
Dear Ms. MDX: I sure'd like to be your friend.
Do you really have 4 heads, or are you just happy
to see me? :4: :17: :4: :confused: :17:
I think your idea of NE Meet is great.
Like your choice of color, ;)
K |
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| texrb |
kruzo........glad the flames got doused by all :2:
If you stop back by acuramdx.org, I think you'll see they are out there too. :4:
As a former owner of 3 hondas & 3 acuras & a current acura owner.....I know the quality of the products and know that all members of both forums can benefit from each other's input. That was the reason for my earlier invite to the acura forum. Things like how to get TSBs, Zaino, etc are good info for both products :5:
happy motoring |
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| Mkell |
| I just placed an order at the KY dealership discussed in this thread. Being fairly new, I have not been privy to the dedication to Tim at HAW. I'm impressed to see the positive things said about HAW and like the sense of community gotten from the group purchase process, but frankly I have been pretty much oblivious to it 'till now. Generally, when it comes to cost, I'm a shopper. So when I saw a lower cost I went for it. I have also purchased at h and a parts - handapart.com. I hope some of these folks do advertise here so that this site generates some revenue and we all hear about the best deals possible. Thanks for the info. I'll post if I have a bad experience with the KY dealership. |
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