30,000 Miles on an RT

[schmeky]

Just a tick away from 30K on my early build date RT. Thought I would provide some observations about my experience and how it compares to other vehicles I have owned.

RT problems:

1. Right pull, fixed
2. Engine check light, gas cap cord under cap
3. Rattle in the back, fixed
4. Windshield wiper #2 position works continuously, gotta get fixed
5. Tires cupping, toe out, fixed
6. New rattle in the back, gotta get fixed

My RT is 100% stock and I installed new BFG KDWS's at 28.5K. I am pleased with this first year car, not perfect, but really good (never had a perfect new car). I rotate the tires and change oil/filter every 5K, run 89 octane fuel, and "air" the engine out every other day or so, I don't baby it.

Here is how I compare my RT to past vehicles:

• 93 Volvo 850 - RT MUCH better. This 850 had many problems the whole time I owned it.
• 99 Suburban - RT slightly better overall. Burb' had problems very similiar to the RT until I sold it at 67K.
• 00 Acura RL - RL better overall. The RL is a really well made, low problem car, however, the RL is a bunch more money.
• 02 Volvo V70 - V70 better overall. V70 much better than my 93 Volvo. This 02 was very solid and trouble-free, comparable to the 00 RL. Cost the same as the RT new.

None of the above has the power and WOW factor of the RT. If I had to buy a new car tomorrow, I would buy an RT. That's is saying a lot because I am very critical of mechanical devices. So, for all you folks thinking of a Magnum, remember, this is a first year car and theoretically, should only get a little better in 06 and beyond.

I'll be back at 50K!

[dantodd]

Thanks Schmeky,

My wife has a 2000 V70R with 105K on the clock. It needs suspension freshening but otherwise I agree. The R is pretty quick but not like the R/T and nowhere near the Torque or WOW factor. Almost anyone who sees me getting into or out of the car comments...

[tonyt]

I'm very close to 30K, not nearly as many problems...

Right pull, still not fixed
Cracked windshield from rock, fixed
Quiet exhaust, FIXED
Fog Light burnt out, fixed

[whtabtbill]

I'm very close to 30K, not nearly as many problems...

Right pull, still not fixed
Cracked windshield from rock, fixed
Quiet exhaust, FIXED
Fog Light burnt out, fixed

My fog light just went out too (and they cost 15 bucks a piece -- ouch!) did you fix it yourself and if so, how? Thanks!

[tonyt]

It was about a month after I bought the car, so I took it to the dealer and said, WTF? They replaced it for free of course!

[northeastern08]

So, for all you folks thinking of a Magnum, remember, this is a first year car and theoretically, should only get a little better in 06 and beyond.

I'll be back at 50K!

But for those of you that want to keep this car for 30 years, remember the first year is always a significant collectors item...guess yah just have to buy two -- one 05 and one 06+ :grin:

Thanks for the info schmeky. Good to know the magnum holds up for a while. So far (im only at 2k) I must say...overall im very impressed with the car and cant wait to have her for a long long time.

Take care.

Todd