Advice on Collecting an MG4 - Closing The Bargain

TooSerious2 on 07/10/2024 - 11:55

I too joined the recent OzBargain MG4 Excite 51 sales frenzy and will collect my car in a couple of weeks.

I’m emailing the dealer tomorrow with two requests:

  • Please check for underbody sag and fix as per SAIC fix bulletin AS-TEC-02112023-01. See here for an article including good photos

  • Please ensure the car has all updates for all software and modules.

Let me know if there is anything specific I should add.

The website linked above has some good tips for picking up your car.

Regarding software, that site says the R11 (29/9/23) is the latest for the Excite 51, but there have been smaller updates since then.

Other spending information:

I bought a charger from this deal for $525 del, which still seems valid. Delivery was three days. It looks good, cable seems heavy duty, rural installation is $280, right beside breaker box.

I went AliExpress for

  • a set RHD funky fitted floor mats (≅A$75);
  • trunk mat ($45);
  • mudflaps ($30);
  • 2 x screen protectors ($15);
  • gel-like stickers to cover shiny plastics ($15);
  • 2 x key-case covers ($10);
  • and a mesh back-of-seat organiser ($7.50).

We’re well out of the target market for this car: 100-200km return commute, regional, 1km of dirt. But my 2007 Mitsubishi 380 is dying in the electrics and this is better than buying a $20k used car.

It feels like when I traded in my inherited 1972 purple Valiant Ranger for a new 3-door Diahatsu Charade last century. That went very well, actually.

Automotive Electric Vehicle MG

Comments

  • HamBoi69 on 07/10/2024 - 12:16
    +19

    Prepping for a space launch or a car pickup? Don't forget the planetary alignment!

    • TooSerious2 on 07/10/2024 - 12:20
      +6

      Been a long time between dances 🕺

    • Boioioioi on 09/10/2024 - 10:14

      Funny you say this. I know someone of a specific faith who is actually waiting for the auspicious time of planetary alignment to buy their next car. I wonder if car sales people know about this, they could charge more during this time.

      • HamBoi69 on 09/10/2024 - 10:52

        Become a car salesperson

      • Cave Fire on 09/10/2024 - 23:02

        Moon chart in stocks is something like 70% accurate.

  • Murkymerv on 07/10/2024 - 12:42
    +1

    It's a shame you didn't keep the last two cars/vehicles on your post , I'd bet they'd still be going 💯

    • HeWhoKnows on 08/10/2024 - 10:46
      -8

      And consider this…
      "We’re well out of the target market for this car: 100-200km return commute, regional, 1km of dirt."

      OP admits this EV probably not fit for OP's purpose.
      EVs are principally a city commute vehicle

      • TooSerious2 on 08/10/2024 - 12:24
        +8

        That's the second comment you're pegged to. Standards are slipping

      • changyang1230 on 08/10/2024 - 12:45
        +7

        100-200km commute is PRECISELY what EV is good for - the fuel saving is astronomical at this mileage.

        And depending on which end of the 100-200km range they truly travel, they may or may not cope with purely just granny charger.

        However, if they install wall charger, they will very comfortably top up the charge each night and have full car battery each morning. The cost of installing wall charger will more than recouped from their fuel saving within the first few months.

      • Euphemistic on 08/10/2024 - 12:49
        +6

        Recently saw a report stating farmers are finding that EVs are good for saving fuel costs. They charge off solar and it costs them nothing to run to and from town whi h tends to be a long distance.

        When you are doing lots of kms, the reduced need for servicing (virtually no oils changes) also saves time and money.

      • klaw81 on 08/10/2024 - 15:54
        +3

        OP admits this EV probably not fit for OP's purpose.

        He makes no such admission. He says he's well outside their target market / typical customer, which is absolutely true.

        EVs are principally a city commute vehicle

        They certainly excel at this, but they are far more capable than the average ignoramus gives them credit for. A regular, relatively long distance commute gets expensive pretty quick in petrol costs and more frequent servicing - an EV can make a massive difference in this scenario.

        My only reservation would be ground clearance on poor quality roads, but if a 380 can handle it without issues, there's no reason an MG4 can't do the same.

        • us3rnam3tak3n on 09/10/2024 - 18:00

          but they are far more capable than the average ignoramus gives them credit for

          How about the below average ignoramus?

      • smartazz104 on 08/10/2024 - 20:59
        +2

        Username continues to not check out.

  • sumyungguy on 07/10/2024 - 12:44
    +1

    There's an MG4 PDI checklist accessible online
    Item 1. Check Service Action Bulletin register - carry out outstanding actions
    Item 5. Connect SIPS/VDS, ensure modules are set to normal mode, check software levels and erase all DTC's - record any ECU mismatch data and consult MG Technical Support for any essential updates.

    I would ask them to kindly share a copy on pick-up. But you of course do you.

  • MS Paint on 07/10/2024 - 13:17
    +12

    Full tank of fuel electrons on handover.

    • pegaxs on 07/10/2024 - 13:22
      +15

      Their next post… "Car only supplied with 1/4 charge. Dealer refuses to rectify. How do I contact ACCC for a full purchase refund and keep the car?"

    • areustillpretty on 07/10/2024 - 13:28
      +1

      Yes, will save you a few dollars. I asked Tesla to charge the car in full when picking it up.

  • MS Paint on 07/10/2024 - 13:29
    +12

    I’m emailing the dealer tomorrow with two requests:

    Also, don't be that guy.

    There are set procedures and a comprehensive checklist for the handover. Your email be be ignored or just shared around the office as "that guy".

    • TooSerious2 on 07/10/2024 - 14:02
      +2

      I think I'm already that guy. I had to point out the deal to the salesman. He wanted to sell me one for $40k.

      • geekcohen on 07/10/2024 - 14:03
        -1

        So because the sales guy didn't know of a promo, that the Workshop/Service manager/worker needs to be told how to do their job?

        • oscargamer on 07/10/2024 - 16:36
          +21

          Yes. It's a reflection of the knowledge in that dealership

        • DontNeedThis on 09/10/2024 - 10:49
          +3

          didn't know

          Are you serious? Dealers are scum!

      • serpserpserp on 09/10/2024 - 08:30
        +3

        lol how can a salesman not know how much a car is? He must have thought you had no idea and was trying to put one over you.

  • geekcohen on 07/10/2024 - 13:46
    +1

    Please ensure the car has all updates for all software and modules.

    As a new car, wouldn't it have automatic over-the-air updates? Or does MG4 not have that? My 2022 Ford Ranger does. So even if they might've missed it, it should happen itself without needing to go to a dealer.

    • TooSerious2 on 07/10/2024 - 14:04
      +3

      No, updates at the dealer only. It will be 40k km before it's back with them hopefully

      • geekcohen on 07/10/2024 - 14:10
        +1

        Thats a shame then. I am sure if you know of an update, that you could then book it in for updates early before its "first service".

    • Cluster on 08/10/2024 - 21:45

      The MG4 really needs those software updates, as the lane keeping and emergency braking were borderline suicidal based on early reviews.

  • elgrande on 07/10/2024 - 13:53
    +6

    Good to see its already falling appart before pickup. 🤷‍♂️

  • bazingaa on 07/10/2024 - 13:57
    +12

    Please check for underbody sag

    getting a brand new car, has to check for under body sag :O

    • EightImmortals on 07/10/2024 - 16:06
      -2

      Cheapo Chinese stuff, buy it cheap buy it twice?

    • smartazz104 on 09/10/2024 - 12:44

      It's like the 70s all over again.

  • nocure on 07/10/2024 - 14:40
    +5

    Dibs on the 380…

    • TooSerious2 on 07/10/2024 - 14:51

      Are you in driving distance? I'm hoping to drop it off, take the plates and maybe get enough for a budget pc with gpu. 😀

  • Dollar General on 07/10/2024 - 15:00
    +1

    I would ask for free roadside assistance if it’s not already included. You gonna need it with an MG

    • oscargamer on 07/10/2024 - 16:36

      It is

    • TooSerious2 on 07/10/2024 - 18:46

      Have always had RACQ. They'll even tow me if/when I run the battery flat

  • jv on 07/10/2024 - 16:31
    -5

    Advice on Collecting an MG4

    Reported for trolling…

  • oscargamer on 07/10/2024 - 16:37

    I also just put a deposit down, live rural, 150km regular commute
    I am also 'that guy'

    • TooSerious2 on 07/10/2024 - 18:11
      +1

      Our thinking is long, predictable kilometres makes this really work financially and for charging.

      • HunterBargainHunter on 07/10/2024 - 18:30
        +2

        My thinking is if there’s war in the Middle East (God No 🥹) and blow up gas prices, then you two, and the thirty odd blokes on OB with EVs will be the only ones able to afford driving on Ozbargain 😅

        • Euphemistic on 08/10/2024 - 08:49
          +1

          Even if there isnt a 'war' the oil cartels will see the unrest as a good excuse to jack up prices and make more money.

        • Speckled Jim on 09/10/2024 - 10:47

          Your thinking hasn't caught up with energy prices whereby "all boats rise" and the only respite is solar charging.

  • Tee Rex Arms on 07/10/2024 - 17:03
    -4

    MG…yuck.

    • t_c on 09/10/2024 - 08:27

      Who cares when your saving so much on fuel, its all about more money left for the massive mortgage. Unless you're on a Doctor salary.

  • MS Paint on 07/10/2024 - 18:35

    Is your rural commute on mostly flat terrain or hilly?

    • oscargamer on 07/10/2024 - 18:38

      Mine is mostly flat. OP?

      Regardless, by my calcs, elec power cost is going to be approx 25% of petrol cost of my small euro other car.

      I can Nov Lease this new MG4 for less than the fuel costs of what it's replacing.

      • MS Paint on 07/10/2024 - 18:43
        -1

        I was asking OP but happy to hear your answer also.

        Was just making sure that OP is aware that flat road rural driving at 100kmh with the aircon blasting on a hot day is the most inefficient use of an EV.

        • oscargamer on 07/10/2024 - 18:46

          It is. But hills are also bad. Stop start flat city traffic is best. But we already know that's not relevant.

        • TooSerious2 on 07/10/2024 - 18:49
          +1

          Some hills, backroads and pretty ordinary highway. But the worst efficiency in an EV still beats my 380 at its cruising best

          • MS Paint on 07/10/2024 - 18:53

            @TooSerious2: I'm thinking more your range requirements so you don't need to recharge when it's most inconvenient. I have no idea what the range of your new car is at highway cycle.

            • TooSerious2 on 07/10/2024 - 19:16
              +1

              @MS Paint: For the 200km, I'm working on using 75% of the battery and charging each night. Range claimed is 350, I'm thinking 250-280 in my situation.

              • MS Paint on 07/10/2024 - 19:31

                @TooSerious2: Sounds good. Sorry to keep nagging, as I'm in a similar situation, but I assume you have a 32a outlet to get it up to 100% each night?

                • TooSerious2 on 07/10/2024 - 20:13
                  +1

                  @MS Paint: No problem. Yeah, electrician is coming this week. Charge 35kwh overnight, about $10. I'm spending $30-40 in fuel at 10l/100km.

                  • Lastchancetosee on 08/10/2024 - 08:09

                    @TooSerious2: Who are you getting for your home charger installation and for how much?

                    My Nissan car dealer recommended Jetcharge, but there seems to be another company called EVolution who have been around for a while.

                    Seems to be impossible to get Chademo for mt Leaf at the moment 🤔

          • based on 09/10/2024 - 10:45
            +1

            @TooSerious2: Have you had any/many flats in the 380? I'd look at spare tyre options if you can sacrifice the boot space

  • kdubs on 07/10/2024 - 22:38

    I put a deposit down without really doing any research. Ozbargain does that to you. I will also email my dealer……

  • Rob-4x4 on 08/10/2024 - 08:51

    Looks like an excellent vehicle. It will be interesting to see what the real world range is. A friend has a Model 3 which he thinks is a excellent vehicle.. except for one issue.. range in cold weather. He lives in Regional Victoria, so winter can be very cold and he said the range can more than halve when highway driving in the cold weather due to (I think) things like the battery heater operating .. He said you can live with it ok, but you just need to be wary and plan for it in cold weather .
    So given the advertised range of 350 KM and your 150 commute it is something you need to be cautious of if you live in a area with really cold weather.

  • 2esc on 08/10/2024 - 10:49

    Underbody sag? All new cars do have a checklist of items missed or discovered after production but thats one i havent heard about before.

    Valiant Rangers are slowly moving upwards in value.

  • pencilhead on 08/10/2024 - 12:53

    Does it come with built in maps, like IGO. Make sure latest maps installed. Q2-2024

  • dtoovey on 08/10/2024 - 15:33
    +1

    Also look at your energy provider. I'm with OVO (can get you referral code if interested) and they do 6c/kW midnight to 6AM, and free between 11AM and 3PM (when you will be commuting). Also, councils often have free chargers - Plugshare a good app to find them in your area.

    • Nugs on 10/10/2024 - 07:56
      +1

      "and free between 11AM and 3PM (when you will be commuting"
      Just buy two cars then, charge one while driving the other
      .

  • rawm on 09/10/2024 - 08:37

    All the very best with your purchase, OP!

    Thanks for sharing Chapter 1 of your story - It'd be great if able to share an update in 6mths.
    Especially with regard to the range you've been able to achieve, cold weather/hot weather, hills, backroads and pretty ordinary highway effects on vehicle.

    Tip 1: I'd look into buying headlight protectors, given the country driving:

    https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005007260780870.html?src=go…

    Tip 2: I'd read through the community forum (if not done already) https://www.mgevs.com/ and especially look into purchasing bonnet and/or wiper protectors.

    ChatGPT: Views on the MG4's paint quality on Australian forums and reviews are mixed. Some owners have noted issues such as thin or soft paint, which makes the car more prone to chipping and damage from minor debris. This is a concern raised by users who have driven the car for a few months, particularly on highways. On the other hand, some owners have had a positive experience with the paint, mentioning that it looks good initially, but the durability could be improved compared to other vehicles in its price range.

    In general, the perception seems to align with the MG4 being a budget-friendly EV, meaning certain areas like the paint and interior materials may not match the quality of more premium competitors.

  • R4 on 09/10/2024 - 11:53
    -1

    Get the software update for the CCP's preinstalled spyware - check.

    • payless69 on 09/10/2024 - 12:09
      -2

      My wife has many colleagues who bought them. Good looking flashy cars.
      Never need a tracking up for the family as they hardly ever make it home.
      But hey tracking is included for free curtesy of the CCP.
      So most will eventually get back onto the roads as dealer service lots were never so crowded with dead cars waiting for parts.
      Why save on a Chery if you get a super duper CULT brand for no extra?

      • Cave Fire on 09/10/2024 - 23:21

        Hmm, like an alien abduction but with the CCP?

  • Cave Fire on 09/10/2024 - 23:20
    +1

    Yeah, posted re:under tray issues after watching this vid: https://youtu.be/4T7Xe6z1cyw?si=znJLELjK_9TJ-V7A

    From a few months ago. And is a "no nonsense" review. Does show a "brake assist" flaw they've ironed out. Updates are only done in house (for the time being). On purchase of the MG4, you can request a "new car check". This will ensure you get any updates + fix the tsb issue at that time if required. Charge is $900 but some dealers are including it. The only accessory he mentioned is a rear spoiler. Vid on that: https://youtu.be/ktDlqY7iIDc?si=FXJ6tFkmFmtheF33 Thought that was something the dealer could quote on. Others have gotten the mats included.

    • Cave Fire on 10/10/2024 - 12:37

      Can't edit. new car check is at 1000km . Can be anything from free, $80 or $900.

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