Escort Redline Warning

[BingoPlayerz]

This is not a coincidence as I've read quite a few posts with the exact same problem. Buy a V1 over an Escort Redline as I wish I did. Here's why:

I must admit that I purchased the Redline with high hopes and at first I was not disappointed. The radar detector is an absolute beast with an insane range. The range is so incredible that half the time you didn't even know where the LEO was but knew he was around and drove with caution. I'm talking miles in advance even off axis. It made my Beltronics V995 seem absolutely worthless. There is no comparing a high end radar detector to a mid range one. But alias, the V995 is five years old and hasn't had a single problem. I also own a fourteen year old, yes fourteen year old Beltronics V940 that still works without a hiccup. This brings me to the issue with the Redline. At exactly one year and a month I noticed that the Redline was barely picking up radar anymore. Then I got this awesome alert that I had never heard. It started saying "Service Required." Now I know electronic devices aren't guarenteed to function forever, I get that. But really? I paid $500 dollars for this device, babied it, and it is busted in just over a year. Heck, I bought a Motorola Tundra for $500 six years ago and it still works amazingly. I can drop it and throw it against a wall, pop the battery back in and put the case back on and it still works. After reading tons of Redline posts about "Service Required," I'm almost conviced that this radar detector is designed to self destruct right after the one year warranty. How does a fourteen year old radar detector still work but this thing just dies after just a year? So, are you thinking of buying an Escort Redline? Don't! Get a V1 as they are considerably more durable and don't need a tune up after such a short period of time. I highly recommend a top notch radar detector, but stay clear of the Escort Redline as you will ultimately pay $639.99 since it will need service after a short time. At least the V1 is $70 to fix if it were to malfunction. Is the Redline a beast? Absolutely! It is phenomenal when it works. Is it worth the $500 price tag? Nope. Looking back I wish I purchased the V1 for $100 cheaper and it most definitely would still be working. I know there are people out there who's Redline still works flawlessly and this post will be frowned upon, but I'm just warning potential buyers that it probably will throw the "Service Required" within two years. A $500 device shouldn't break in this short amount of time.

I am truly disappointed in Escort products . Anyone want to trade a V1 for a Redline?

[zappy]

... At least the V1 is $70 to fix if it were to malfunction. ...

Actually the basic charge is $45 unless abused or modified.

[o2bad455]

Anyone want to trade a V1 for a Redline?

Does the $139.99 include an upgrade? If not, is an upgrade available and how much more for that? If you're serious about a swap, I've got an excellent V1 (version 3.872) plus concealed display plus remote audio adapter that I could trade. PM if interested.

[Hodogs]

I call BS, the Redline out performs the Valentine and will save you a ticket, I have had mine for around 5 years and have not paid one extra dollar for tune ups or recalibration

[dslrip32]

I call BS, the Redline out performs the Valentine and will save you a ticket, I have had mine for around 5 years and have not paid one extra dollar for tune ups or recalibration

The redline does not outperform the V1. About identical as for range, but definitely not on quick trigger pulls. V1 sniffs those out every time while Redline remains silent. And no detector is a promise of no ticket. You have to use the tool "V1 or Redline" wisely.

[Hodogs]

I call BS, the Redline out performs the Valentine and will save you a ticket, I have had mine for around 5 years and have not paid one extra dollar for tune ups or recalibration

The redline does not outperform the V1. About identical as for range, but definitely not on quick trigger pulls. V1 sniffs those out every time while Redline remains silent. And no detector is a promise of no ticket. You have to use the tool "V1 or Redline" wisely.

I tried both and the V1 sometimes would not go off with the damn cop car in sight and radar on. The redline gives me plenty of warning and even picks up enough scatter for the laser guys around Nashville.

[mymman]

Properly "tune" your Redline and it will beat a V1 every time. I have used both. Just don't come into Virginia or D.C. with a V1. Have you ever wondered why some state LEOs have RDDs? Even if detectors are legal in that state, fines can be increased if you are using a RD and caught speeding.

[Radar Roy]

States that do have RDD's typically focus on commercial enforcement

[hitechrr]

States that do have RDD's typically focus on commercial enforcement

I was pulled over for having a radar detector in my Honda when I had a cobra. I now have a redline.

[CJR238]

FYI. Just because a old product cant tell you it needs service doesn't mean its better or was more durable.

The RedLine will tell you if there is an issue under most circumstances, a V995 wont tell you boo until you pick up a new RD and find the new RD is an absolute beast in comparison.

Also with BS/RDR the RedLine out preforms the V1 in long range and is comparable in speed.

Lots of old content being circulated around. Time to do more research.