My wife and I have just returned from a trip where we drove to Cabo from Northern Calif. Because we appreciated the information we were able to get from your web site before we left we would like to give you the latest report, as of February 14, 1999.
We found the road conditions better than expected from Tijuana to Cabo San Lucas. That is not to say there were not occasional pot holes, but for the most part the pavement was good. The worst was from Ensenada to the intersection of routes 3 and 5 on the way to San Felipe. Our route was Tijuana to Cabo, back to Ensenada, to San Felipe, and exiting at Mexicali.
We found the speed bumps (topes) were all marked with warning signs but it was good to have knowledge of where to expect them. The highway signs are very good and reliable. When they say "CURVA PELIGROSA" (dangerous curve) pay attention.
We had no problem with gas. We were paying $1.70 per gallon for 87 octane. There was no problem with false pumping as all the pumps we encountered were the newer type that had to cleared before starting.
We wished we had known that the "scenic route" from Tijuana to Ensenada was the toll road. The signs directing to the toll road all say "scenic route" which we interpreted to mean along the coast or at least not the toll road. One more thing that is a learning experience.
The road checks by the Mexican Army were at first concerning, and then became amusing. The key words were "no guns and no drugs" at which point they would wave us on. We were stopped 7 or 8 times but only twice did we have to open the doors to our mini van, and then they just looked in and gave us a pass.
We had a good trip and would recommend it to anyone. Thanks for the information we gained in advance.