Walking into a tire store can be, and often is to say the least confusing for those of us who don’t buy tires that often. For the most part, as long as there are four tires on the car, most people are satisfied.
But when taking a stronger interest in the type of tires that are mounted on a car, the whole area of “tires” opens up, and we find there’s more to this tire buying than just bringing the car in to a tire shop and having four new tires put on.
A tire is an important functional part of any vehicle. Outside of the engine and its various parts, without the tire, no car, no truck, or no bus will get from point A to point B or any other point for that matter.
Sometimes we can’t always base our decision to buy a tire based on the name of the tire if it is a well known brand, or because the price is in a higher bracket than other selections of tires. A little homework will help us make a wiser decision when purchasing a tire.
First off the U.S. Government rates tires according to safety and mileage and by learning what these specifications are will help us decide what is best for our needs. Treadware traction, and heat resistance are some of the factors that should be seriously considered when making a purchase. Tire dealers can and should provide this information to the discerning consumer.
Treadware gives the expected mileage. This is shown by numbers, i.e. 300, 400, 500, etc. The higher the number, the more the expected mileage.
Traction grades provides a basis on how well tires will stop on a wet surface. “A” Grade of course being the better tire, thereby stopping in a shorter distance than Grade “B. We can see here that by purchasing the better grade, if we live in a climate where rain is a factor, we are better off paying a bit more by buying the higher-grade tire.
Grading a tire by “Heat Resistance” is also an important consideration, especially for those who live in the warmer climates. Again, deciding on a better grade will in the long run prevent driving on a tire that may not be suitable or does not wear well in the hotter climates.
Tires are also rated by speed. Checking the ‘”owner’s manual” will provide that information, ensuring that the manufacturer’s suggested requirements are kept in mind when making the purchase.
Also, when having these tires mounted keep in mind that some stores may charge extra for balancing and mounting, thereby upping the total cost of the tire. This happened to me and the "great" sale did not turn out so great.
Other considerations: When driving on mostly paved roads and highways as opposed to off-road, a smooth road tire (aka street tire) should be a consideration.
When driving equally on paved road, highways, and off roads, then an all-terrain tire should be a consideration.
When driving mostly off-road, and occasionally on paved roads/highway, then an “off-road” tire should be considered.
Again, doing one’s homework, becoming well informed, knowing what to look for, what is required by a manufacturer in terms of their own specifications for buying tires will ensure that a correct decision is made when purchasing this product.
WEBSITE: http://www.tampabayautonetwork.com/
TWITTER: http://twitter.com/TmpAutoNtwrk
YOU TUBE: http://www.youtube.com/user/TampaBayAutoNetwork
Friday, July 30, 2010
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Lane Departure Warning Technology
Have you ever looked away from the road to your radio, only to be blasted of another driver's horn as you drifted? It happens to many drivers. Fatigue, medications, and distractions can make even the best drivers do dangerous things. Don't you wish there was a way to be alerted when this happens―horn blasts aside?
There is. It's called lane departure warning (LDW) technology.
LDW History
After first making an appearance on European commerical trucks, American drivers saw LDW technology in 2004. Iteris licensed it to Valeo Management Services, and Nissan Motors unveiled its 2005 Infiniti FX and 2006 Infiniti M45―the first two models to come with LDW―at the April 2004 New York Auto show.
How It Works
LDW uses tiny cameras, mounted on rearview mirrors, to watch the lane markings. This information is fed to an onboard computer, which then warns the driver with a combination of lights, steering wheel vibration, and perhaps an alarm that the car is drifting out of the lane. It's so sophisticated that it works under any weather conditions ― that's why it's taken so long to come to market.
If the driver happens to forget to use a turn signal, the LDW still goes off. Don't use this an excuse to leave your turn signals on forever―systems come with an off/on switch.
It's by no means foolproof. Muddy roads or freshly repaved streets with no lines stump the system.
Which Cars Have LDW
More cars come out with LDW every year. Lexus, BMW, Nissan Infiniti, and GM (Cadillac and Buick) all have versions in their 2008 models.
LDW may appear under a slightly different name, like Nissan Infiniti's "Lane Departure Prevention," or Lexus's "Lane-Keeping Assist."
Each may work a bit differently. Some only have warnings, and some actually allow the car to brake and move the car back into the lane for you if you ignore the system.
It sounds like something the Batmobile has, but LDW is meant to be only another helpful accident-prevention tool. It won't drive the car for you. Don't try to travel across the country in 48 hours and expect the LDW to save your life.
WEBSITE: http://www.tampabayautonetwork.com/
TWITTER: http://twitter.com/TmpAutoNtwrk
YOU TUBE: http://www.youtube.com/user/TampaBayAutoNetwork
There is. It's called lane departure warning (LDW) technology.
LDW History
After first making an appearance on European commerical trucks, American drivers saw LDW technology in 2004. Iteris licensed it to Valeo Management Services, and Nissan Motors unveiled its 2005 Infiniti FX and 2006 Infiniti M45―the first two models to come with LDW―at the April 2004 New York Auto show.
How It Works
LDW uses tiny cameras, mounted on rearview mirrors, to watch the lane markings. This information is fed to an onboard computer, which then warns the driver with a combination of lights, steering wheel vibration, and perhaps an alarm that the car is drifting out of the lane. It's so sophisticated that it works under any weather conditions ― that's why it's taken so long to come to market.
If the driver happens to forget to use a turn signal, the LDW still goes off. Don't use this an excuse to leave your turn signals on forever―systems come with an off/on switch.
It's by no means foolproof. Muddy roads or freshly repaved streets with no lines stump the system.
Which Cars Have LDW
More cars come out with LDW every year. Lexus, BMW, Nissan Infiniti, and GM (Cadillac and Buick) all have versions in their 2008 models.
LDW may appear under a slightly different name, like Nissan Infiniti's "Lane Departure Prevention," or Lexus's "Lane-Keeping Assist."
Each may work a bit differently. Some only have warnings, and some actually allow the car to brake and move the car back into the lane for you if you ignore the system.
It sounds like something the Batmobile has, but LDW is meant to be only another helpful accident-prevention tool. It won't drive the car for you. Don't try to travel across the country in 48 hours and expect the LDW to save your life.
WEBSITE: http://www.tampabayautonetwork.com/
TWITTER: http://twitter.com/TmpAutoNtwrk
YOU TUBE: http://www.youtube.com/user/TampaBayAutoNetwork
Sunday, May 9, 2010
4 Ugly Cars Only Their Mothers Could Love
This is an article, written by Tom Ripley for 'Driving Today', that brings back memories!
"For reasons known only to God and the executive committees that approved them, ugly cars exist in nature. And in spite of their often ungainly and grotesque countenances, somebody loves them. So let’s celebrate that unconditional love by taking a closer look at the pantheon of cars only their mother could love.
Ugly Car No. 1: AMC Pacer
Sure, this is the go-to ugly car, but it is the go-to because it was so ugly. Looking something like an upside-down cereal bowl balancing on toothpicks, the Pacer’s body was way too big for its undersized tires. To that, you can add positively enormous side glass, windshield and backlight, allowing you a very good look at the idiot who bought it. Inside, the over-long six-cylinder engine intrudes into the passenger compartment because when AMC designed it, they thought it would be equipped with a more compact, rotary engine.
Ugly Car No. 2: Renault Fuego
Some of the most beautiful classics of the ’30s came from French design studios, but by the early 1980s (and some would say well before), the French had lost their touch. The Fuego was a weak attempt at a sports coupe, kind of a limp-wristed Mustang saddled with a tiny engine and a lackluster profile. And as with so many ugly cars, the closer you look at it, the worse it gets. Details like the undersized tires and black body stripe did nothing but add to the overall malaise. Inside, the Fuego was an ergonomic disaster.
Ugly Car No. 3: Yugo GV
Malcolm Bricklin’s attempt to use geopolitical realities to bring a price leader to the U.S. market failed largely because the car -- Yugo GV (for great value) -- was one of the worst vehicles ever foisted on the American public. In this car, as your mother once told you, ugly is as ugly does. The 1.1-liter engine that claimed to offer 58 horsepower was feeble, and the drivetrain had so much slop in it that if you accelerated, the car pulled to the left, and if you let off the accelerator, the car pulled to the right. Fit-and-finish inside and out were in the “you’ve got to be kidding” category.
Ugly Car No. 4: Pontiac Aztek
When you see a Pontiac Aztek on the road -- something that is still possible though unfortunate -- you have to wonder how a group of sighted auto executives approved the vehicle’s design. Some cars have hidden flaws, but the Aztek hides nothing. It is flawed everywhere: awkward profile, ungainly front and rear ends, plus loose, flapping-in-the-breeze trim. From the driver’s seat, the Aztek wasn’t nearly as bad as from the outside, but that’s like getting comfortable in the belly of a whale. The mundane 3.4-liter V-6 offered just 185 horsepower, not sufficient to get the Aztek out of our sight nearly quick enough."
WEBSITE: http://www.tampabayautonetwork.com/
TWITTER: http://twitter.com/TmpAutoNtwrk
YOU TUBE: http://www.youtube.com/user/TampaBayAutoNetwork
"For reasons known only to God and the executive committees that approved them, ugly cars exist in nature. And in spite of their often ungainly and grotesque countenances, somebody loves them. So let’s celebrate that unconditional love by taking a closer look at the pantheon of cars only their mother could love.
Ugly Car No. 1: AMC Pacer
Sure, this is the go-to ugly car, but it is the go-to because it was so ugly. Looking something like an upside-down cereal bowl balancing on toothpicks, the Pacer’s body was way too big for its undersized tires. To that, you can add positively enormous side glass, windshield and backlight, allowing you a very good look at the idiot who bought it. Inside, the over-long six-cylinder engine intrudes into the passenger compartment because when AMC designed it, they thought it would be equipped with a more compact, rotary engine.
Ugly Car No. 2: Renault Fuego
Some of the most beautiful classics of the ’30s came from French design studios, but by the early 1980s (and some would say well before), the French had lost their touch. The Fuego was a weak attempt at a sports coupe, kind of a limp-wristed Mustang saddled with a tiny engine and a lackluster profile. And as with so many ugly cars, the closer you look at it, the worse it gets. Details like the undersized tires and black body stripe did nothing but add to the overall malaise. Inside, the Fuego was an ergonomic disaster.
Ugly Car No. 3: Yugo GV
Malcolm Bricklin’s attempt to use geopolitical realities to bring a price leader to the U.S. market failed largely because the car -- Yugo GV (for great value) -- was one of the worst vehicles ever foisted on the American public. In this car, as your mother once told you, ugly is as ugly does. The 1.1-liter engine that claimed to offer 58 horsepower was feeble, and the drivetrain had so much slop in it that if you accelerated, the car pulled to the left, and if you let off the accelerator, the car pulled to the right. Fit-and-finish inside and out were in the “you’ve got to be kidding” category.
Ugly Car No. 4: Pontiac Aztek
When you see a Pontiac Aztek on the road -- something that is still possible though unfortunate -- you have to wonder how a group of sighted auto executives approved the vehicle’s design. Some cars have hidden flaws, but the Aztek hides nothing. It is flawed everywhere: awkward profile, ungainly front and rear ends, plus loose, flapping-in-the-breeze trim. From the driver’s seat, the Aztek wasn’t nearly as bad as from the outside, but that’s like getting comfortable in the belly of a whale. The mundane 3.4-liter V-6 offered just 185 horsepower, not sufficient to get the Aztek out of our sight nearly quick enough."
WEBSITE: http://www.tampabayautonetwork.com/
TWITTER: http://twitter.com/TmpAutoNtwrk
YOU TUBE: http://www.youtube.com/user/TampaBayAutoNetwork
Sunday, April 25, 2010
25 Facts About Tampa Bay AutoNetwork - Tampa Used Car Dealer
1. Family Owned & Operated
2. BBB Accredited
3. 'A' Rated BBB Member
4. eBay Motors Platinum Level PowerSellers
5. 100% Poistive Feedback on eBay Motors
6. Carfax Certified Dealer
7. Favorite Place on Google
8. No Commision's
9. World Wide Customer Base
10. World Wide Shipping
11. Disocunted Shipping Rates
12. Preferred Credit Union Dealer
13. Treating People the Way We Want to be Treated
14. Built on Honesty & Integrity
15. Selling Serviced, Inspected, and Detailed Vehicles
16. Offering Local Trade-Ins @ Dealer Wholesale Prices
17. Specializing in Hard to Find Luxury and Specialty Vehicles: 4 Door Sedans, 2 Door Coupes, Roadsters, Convertibles, Sport Utility, Specialty Trucks....
18. Personalized Service
19. Phenomenal Communication
20. Provider of Nationwide Extended Service Plans
21. Unique, Hassle-Free Experience
22. Honoring Promises
23. Building Trust
24. Truth in Advertising
25. Conveniently Located
WEBSITE: http://www.tampabayautonetwork.com/
TWITTER: http://twitter.com/TmpAutoNtwrk
YOU TUBE: http://www.youtube.com/user/TampaBayAutoNetwork
2. BBB Accredited
3. 'A' Rated BBB Member
4. eBay Motors Platinum Level PowerSellers
5. 100% Poistive Feedback on eBay Motors
6. Carfax Certified Dealer
7. Favorite Place on Google
8. No Commision's
9. World Wide Customer Base
10. World Wide Shipping
11. Disocunted Shipping Rates
12. Preferred Credit Union Dealer
13. Treating People the Way We Want to be Treated
14. Built on Honesty & Integrity
15. Selling Serviced, Inspected, and Detailed Vehicles
16. Offering Local Trade-Ins @ Dealer Wholesale Prices
17. Specializing in Hard to Find Luxury and Specialty Vehicles: 4 Door Sedans, 2 Door Coupes, Roadsters, Convertibles, Sport Utility, Specialty Trucks....
18. Personalized Service
19. Phenomenal Communication
20. Provider of Nationwide Extended Service Plans
21. Unique, Hassle-Free Experience
22. Honoring Promises
23. Building Trust
24. Truth in Advertising
25. Conveniently Located
WEBSITE: http://www.tampabayautonetwork.com/
TWITTER: http://twitter.com/TmpAutoNtwrk
YOU TUBE: http://www.youtube.com/user/TampaBayAutoNetwork
Thursday, April 1, 2010
How To Clean & Protect Your Convertible Top
The convertible automobile is a combination of beauty, performance and superior engineering. We all know why we are attracted to the sleek masterful design of a convertible, they are pleasing to the eye, and fun to drive.
Unlike coupes or sedans convertibles have special care requirements for the delicate convertible top material, whether it is made of fabric or vinyl and they should not be cared for like the painted surfaces of your car.
The longevity, performance and looks of your convertible top depends on regular maintenance which consists of proper cleaning and protection for your specific convertible top type. A simple hand wash or drive through the car wash is not enough and could result in premature deterioration which not only causes your convertible top to look bad but it could cause it to leak or lead to a costly replacement!
Cleaning and protecting your convertible top is very important when it comes to the maintenance of your car. This article will take you through simple steps that will keep your convertible top looking good and performing well for years to come.
IS MY CONVERTIBLE TOP FABRIC OR VINYL?
The first step in the care of your convertible top is to determine if your convertible top is made of fabric, also known as cloth, canvas or if the top is made of vinyl. The best way to determine this is to check with your automobile manufacture. Keep in mind, if you are not the original owner, the top could have been replaced with a top made from a different material. This could also have been done by the dealership when it was new so it is best to test your top if you are not absolutely sure of the material. Determining the type of convertible top is very important as you will need to make sure you use the correct cleaner and protectant for your specific convertible top. Using the wrong product can harm your convertible top.
FABRIC OR VINYL CONVERTIBLE TOP TEST
Take about 1/8 teaspoon of water and put it on your convertible top.
Try to rub the water in to the material.
If it starts to soak in, it is more than likely fabric, if it sits on the top and just smears but does not soak in, it is more than likely vinyl.
Another hint for determining if your convertible top is fabric or vinyl is that fabric tops tend to attract fuzzy things like lint, where the vinyl tops do not. If you are still unsure of what your convertible top is made of it is best to get the opinion of a professional.
CLEANING PRODUCTS FOR YOUR CONVERTIBLE TOP
Common household cleaning products can be very harmful to your soft convertible top. Chemicals you should not use on or near your convertible top include ammonia, bleach, detergent, alcohol and vinegar. Detergents, bleach and harsh acids will quickly deteriorate fabric or vinyl, whereas ammonia and alcohol will dry our fabric and cloud vinyl. Using the wrong cleaners can be a costly mistake. Use only products specifically made for cleaning your type of convertible top.
Keeping your convertible top clean is important. If your convertible top is not dirty, just rinse it thoroughly at least once a month with a strong jet of clear water. For fabric convertible tops you can also carefully use a vacuum to extract any loose dirt or dust that settle into the fabric fibers. If your convertible top is dirty use a convertible top cleaner followed by your convertible top protectant. We recommend cleaners specifically designed for convertible tops, as many car wash shampoos contain gloss-enhancers. If a car wash shampoo contains gloss enhancers, the top will absorb them and become a dust magnet.
HOW TO CLEAN YOUR CONVERTIBLE TOP
Fabric, Cloth or Canvas and Vinyl Convertible Top Cleaning:
Always wash convertible tops in the shade, never in direct sunlight.
Always wash the entire convertible top at one time, never spot clean as this will leave rings or spots.
Wet convertible top thoroughly and rinse off any loose dirt.
Spray Convertible Top Cleaner and apply evenly over entire roof then scrub lightly with soft bristle brush.
For difficult soiled areas, spray and let stand for 15 to 20 minutes.
Gently scrub with soft bristle brush.
Rinse thoroughly with water until no remaining foam from Convertible Top Cleaner is observed.
IMPORTANT: CONVERTIBLE TOP MUST BE THOROUGHLY DRY BEFORE USING YOUR CONVERTIBLE TOP PROTECTANT!
IMPORTANCE OF PROTECTING YOUR CONVERTIBLE TOP
Your car's soft convertible top is subjected to the same harsh environmental conditions as the painted surfaces of your car but your convertible top is not as durable as your painted surfaces. We all know that it is important to wax your paint to keep it protected from premature aging. The fabric/cloth or vinyl material that your convertible top is made from, although durable, is more delicate than the painted steel or fiberglass that the body of your car is made from. This is why it is vitally important to protect your convertible top and keep it protected as a part of your maintenance regimen. Unprotected convertible tops will deteriorate leaving them looking bad and even worse, they will start to leak! The worst nightmare of a convertible owner is a leaky convertible top!
IMPORTANT NOTE! About 99% of new convertible tops have stitching along the sides and around glass or plastic window is not treated when it leaves the factory! This is what holds your convertible top together so get it protected IMMEDIATELY!
HOW TO PROTECT YOUR FABRIC CONVERTIBLE TOP
Fabric, Cloth or Canvas Convertible Top Protection:
Start with a clean, completely dry convertible top.
If possible avoid applying protectant on windy days or pull your car inside the garage. Even a light breeze will cause more overspray and will also stir up dirt and dust that will be attracted to your convertible top before the protectant has a chance to dry.
Shake fabric convertible top protectant well before use and several times during application.
Hold can or bottle upright and spray evenly 16-18 inches from material and use a gentle sweeping motion. DO NOT SATURATE!
Allow to Completely Dry 10 minutes or longer between coats, preferably in the sun. Artificial heat can be used to speed drying time. Drying time may vary depending on weather conditions. Your convertible top MUST BE COMPLETELY DRY before applying the next coat of protectant.
Spray up to three light even coats of Fabric Convertible Top Protectant allowing protectant to completely dry between coats.
Use a clean microfiber towel to wipe off any excess overspray on paint, trim or glass.
Apply every 6-8 weeks for maximum UV protection and to protect against the harsh environmental elements.
For Vinyl Convertible Tops use a Vinyl Convertible Top Protectant
HOW TO PROTECT YOUR VINYL CONVERTIBLE TOP
Vinyl Convertible Top Protection:
Start with a clean dry convertible top.
If possible avoid applying protectant on windy days or pull your car inside the garage. Even a light breeze will cause more overspray and will also stir up dirt and dust that will be attracted to your convertible top until the protectant is dry.
Shake vinyl convertible top protectant and spray 8 -12 inches from convertible top.
Spray on using gentle sweeping motions or spray onto clean microfiber towel or applicator and wipe onto vinyl convertible top.
Wipe dry with a clean microfiber towel.
Use a clean microfiber towel to wipe off any excess overspray on paint, trim or glass.
Apply every 4-5 weeks for maximum UV protection and to protect against the harsh environmental elements.
For fabric convertible tops use a Fabric Convertible Top Protectant.
CONVERTIBLE TOP REAR WINDOW CARE
The rigid or flexible rear window on your convertible top is delicate and needs special care too. Many convertibles have flexible rear windows made of a clear vinyl allowing the window to fold. The rigid and flexible clear vinyl rear windows when not properly cared for will scratch, yellow and deteriorate.
It’s fun when your convertible top is down but when it is time to drive with the top up many convertible owners experience foggy windows. This is especially true for new cars. This fog is created by the evaporation of plasticizers which are used in the manufacturing of vinyl to keep it flexible. The plasticizers release through evaporation with the heat of the sun, causing your windows to fog up and turn yellowish if not protected.
CONVERTIBLE TOP REAR WINDOW CLEANING
To keep your convertible top windows crystal clear you need to keep them clean!
Always wash your car in the shade, never in direct sunlight.
Wash the outside of your window with a microfiber wash mitt and your car wash shampoo to remove loose dirt and debris during your normal car wash process.
Dry your entire car as well as your window with a microfiber drying towel.
Spray Plexus Plastic Cleaner, Polish and Protectant directly onto a clean, dry microfiber towel and use to polish and clean your window, inside and out.
Regular use of Plexus Plastic Cleaner, Polish and Protectant will prevent fogging, hazing, yellowing and oxidation which diminishes the plastic's luster, strength and appearance. Plexus Plastic Cleaner, Polish and Protectant also works great on your headlights, taillight lenses and gages.
CONVERTIBLE CAR TOP CARE SUMMARY
Follow this simple maintenance regimen and your convertible top will look good and perform well for years to come!
If your convertible top is not dirty, just rinse it thoroughly at least once a month with a strong jet of clear water. If your convertible top is dirty use a non-detergent-based convertible top cleaner followed by your convertible top protectant. We recommend a convertible top cleaner as many car wash shampoos contain gloss-enhancers. If the car wash shampoo contains gloss enhancers, the top will absorb them and become a dust magnet. For this reason we recommend using cleaners specifically designed for convertible tops.
We recommend a very soft bristle scrub brush for cleaning your convertible top. If you can rub the brush across the back of your hand without scratching your skin, it's safe to use on your convertible top.
Do not use a cloth, chenille-covered sponge or lamb's wool mitt on your convertible top, as they will leave lint.
Do not use your scrub brush on the vinyl window, it will scratch and decrease visibility.
Make sure you rinse the top thoroughly with a stiff stream of water to remove all of the dirt, grime and suds from your convertible top cleaner.
After washing, dry your convertible fabric or vinyl top use a Microfiber Drying Towel. The best method is to use the towel to blot up the water. Do not use a terry cloth towel or diaper to dry your convertible, as they will leave lint on fabric convertible tops. The Microfiber Drying Towels will also work well on your clear vinyl windows.
Keep your convertible top protected like you do your paint. For best results, protect your fabric, cloth or canvas convertible top at least 3-4 times per year and your vinyl convertible top as often as every 4-5 weeks.
Fabric, cloth or canvas convertible tops tend to attract lint, dust, pollen and other things that fly around the air and find home on your convertible top. This can look especially bad on a black convertible top! To keep your convertible top looking sharp, keep a lint roller handy and when your top is dry, just run the roller over the top. You will be surprised how this simple step will bring back that crisp new look.
We hope the information in this article helps you maintain your convertible top so you can get the full enjoyment of owning a convertible without the worries of a costly convertible top replacement.
WEBSITE:
http://www.tampabayautonetwork.com/
TWITTER:
http://twitter.com/TmpAutoNtwrk
YOU TUBE:
http://www.youtube.com/user/TampaBayAutoNetwork
Unlike coupes or sedans convertibles have special care requirements for the delicate convertible top material, whether it is made of fabric or vinyl and they should not be cared for like the painted surfaces of your car.
The longevity, performance and looks of your convertible top depends on regular maintenance which consists of proper cleaning and protection for your specific convertible top type. A simple hand wash or drive through the car wash is not enough and could result in premature deterioration which not only causes your convertible top to look bad but it could cause it to leak or lead to a costly replacement!
Cleaning and protecting your convertible top is very important when it comes to the maintenance of your car. This article will take you through simple steps that will keep your convertible top looking good and performing well for years to come.
IS MY CONVERTIBLE TOP FABRIC OR VINYL?
The first step in the care of your convertible top is to determine if your convertible top is made of fabric, also known as cloth, canvas or if the top is made of vinyl. The best way to determine this is to check with your automobile manufacture. Keep in mind, if you are not the original owner, the top could have been replaced with a top made from a different material. This could also have been done by the dealership when it was new so it is best to test your top if you are not absolutely sure of the material. Determining the type of convertible top is very important as you will need to make sure you use the correct cleaner and protectant for your specific convertible top. Using the wrong product can harm your convertible top.
FABRIC OR VINYL CONVERTIBLE TOP TEST
Take about 1/8 teaspoon of water and put it on your convertible top.
Try to rub the water in to the material.
If it starts to soak in, it is more than likely fabric, if it sits on the top and just smears but does not soak in, it is more than likely vinyl.
Another hint for determining if your convertible top is fabric or vinyl is that fabric tops tend to attract fuzzy things like lint, where the vinyl tops do not. If you are still unsure of what your convertible top is made of it is best to get the opinion of a professional.
CLEANING PRODUCTS FOR YOUR CONVERTIBLE TOP
Common household cleaning products can be very harmful to your soft convertible top. Chemicals you should not use on or near your convertible top include ammonia, bleach, detergent, alcohol and vinegar. Detergents, bleach and harsh acids will quickly deteriorate fabric or vinyl, whereas ammonia and alcohol will dry our fabric and cloud vinyl. Using the wrong cleaners can be a costly mistake. Use only products specifically made for cleaning your type of convertible top.
Keeping your convertible top clean is important. If your convertible top is not dirty, just rinse it thoroughly at least once a month with a strong jet of clear water. For fabric convertible tops you can also carefully use a vacuum to extract any loose dirt or dust that settle into the fabric fibers. If your convertible top is dirty use a convertible top cleaner followed by your convertible top protectant. We recommend cleaners specifically designed for convertible tops, as many car wash shampoos contain gloss-enhancers. If a car wash shampoo contains gloss enhancers, the top will absorb them and become a dust magnet.
HOW TO CLEAN YOUR CONVERTIBLE TOP
Fabric, Cloth or Canvas and Vinyl Convertible Top Cleaning:
Always wash convertible tops in the shade, never in direct sunlight.
Always wash the entire convertible top at one time, never spot clean as this will leave rings or spots.
Wet convertible top thoroughly and rinse off any loose dirt.
Spray Convertible Top Cleaner and apply evenly over entire roof then scrub lightly with soft bristle brush.
For difficult soiled areas, spray and let stand for 15 to 20 minutes.
Gently scrub with soft bristle brush.
Rinse thoroughly with water until no remaining foam from Convertible Top Cleaner is observed.
IMPORTANT: CONVERTIBLE TOP MUST BE THOROUGHLY DRY BEFORE USING YOUR CONVERTIBLE TOP PROTECTANT!
IMPORTANCE OF PROTECTING YOUR CONVERTIBLE TOP
Your car's soft convertible top is subjected to the same harsh environmental conditions as the painted surfaces of your car but your convertible top is not as durable as your painted surfaces. We all know that it is important to wax your paint to keep it protected from premature aging. The fabric/cloth or vinyl material that your convertible top is made from, although durable, is more delicate than the painted steel or fiberglass that the body of your car is made from. This is why it is vitally important to protect your convertible top and keep it protected as a part of your maintenance regimen. Unprotected convertible tops will deteriorate leaving them looking bad and even worse, they will start to leak! The worst nightmare of a convertible owner is a leaky convertible top!
IMPORTANT NOTE! About 99% of new convertible tops have stitching along the sides and around glass or plastic window is not treated when it leaves the factory! This is what holds your convertible top together so get it protected IMMEDIATELY!
HOW TO PROTECT YOUR FABRIC CONVERTIBLE TOP
Fabric, Cloth or Canvas Convertible Top Protection:
Start with a clean, completely dry convertible top.
If possible avoid applying protectant on windy days or pull your car inside the garage. Even a light breeze will cause more overspray and will also stir up dirt and dust that will be attracted to your convertible top before the protectant has a chance to dry.
Shake fabric convertible top protectant well before use and several times during application.
Hold can or bottle upright and spray evenly 16-18 inches from material and use a gentle sweeping motion. DO NOT SATURATE!
Allow to Completely Dry 10 minutes or longer between coats, preferably in the sun. Artificial heat can be used to speed drying time. Drying time may vary depending on weather conditions. Your convertible top MUST BE COMPLETELY DRY before applying the next coat of protectant.
Spray up to three light even coats of Fabric Convertible Top Protectant allowing protectant to completely dry between coats.
Use a clean microfiber towel to wipe off any excess overspray on paint, trim or glass.
Apply every 6-8 weeks for maximum UV protection and to protect against the harsh environmental elements.
For Vinyl Convertible Tops use a Vinyl Convertible Top Protectant
HOW TO PROTECT YOUR VINYL CONVERTIBLE TOP
Vinyl Convertible Top Protection:
Start with a clean dry convertible top.
If possible avoid applying protectant on windy days or pull your car inside the garage. Even a light breeze will cause more overspray and will also stir up dirt and dust that will be attracted to your convertible top until the protectant is dry.
Shake vinyl convertible top protectant and spray 8 -12 inches from convertible top.
Spray on using gentle sweeping motions or spray onto clean microfiber towel or applicator and wipe onto vinyl convertible top.
Wipe dry with a clean microfiber towel.
Use a clean microfiber towel to wipe off any excess overspray on paint, trim or glass.
Apply every 4-5 weeks for maximum UV protection and to protect against the harsh environmental elements.
For fabric convertible tops use a Fabric Convertible Top Protectant.
CONVERTIBLE TOP REAR WINDOW CARE
The rigid or flexible rear window on your convertible top is delicate and needs special care too. Many convertibles have flexible rear windows made of a clear vinyl allowing the window to fold. The rigid and flexible clear vinyl rear windows when not properly cared for will scratch, yellow and deteriorate.
It’s fun when your convertible top is down but when it is time to drive with the top up many convertible owners experience foggy windows. This is especially true for new cars. This fog is created by the evaporation of plasticizers which are used in the manufacturing of vinyl to keep it flexible. The plasticizers release through evaporation with the heat of the sun, causing your windows to fog up and turn yellowish if not protected.
CONVERTIBLE TOP REAR WINDOW CLEANING
To keep your convertible top windows crystal clear you need to keep them clean!
Always wash your car in the shade, never in direct sunlight.
Wash the outside of your window with a microfiber wash mitt and your car wash shampoo to remove loose dirt and debris during your normal car wash process.
Dry your entire car as well as your window with a microfiber drying towel.
Spray Plexus Plastic Cleaner, Polish and Protectant directly onto a clean, dry microfiber towel and use to polish and clean your window, inside and out.
Regular use of Plexus Plastic Cleaner, Polish and Protectant will prevent fogging, hazing, yellowing and oxidation which diminishes the plastic's luster, strength and appearance. Plexus Plastic Cleaner, Polish and Protectant also works great on your headlights, taillight lenses and gages.
CONVERTIBLE CAR TOP CARE SUMMARY
Follow this simple maintenance regimen and your convertible top will look good and perform well for years to come!
If your convertible top is not dirty, just rinse it thoroughly at least once a month with a strong jet of clear water. If your convertible top is dirty use a non-detergent-based convertible top cleaner followed by your convertible top protectant. We recommend a convertible top cleaner as many car wash shampoos contain gloss-enhancers. If the car wash shampoo contains gloss enhancers, the top will absorb them and become a dust magnet. For this reason we recommend using cleaners specifically designed for convertible tops.
We recommend a very soft bristle scrub brush for cleaning your convertible top. If you can rub the brush across the back of your hand without scratching your skin, it's safe to use on your convertible top.
Do not use a cloth, chenille-covered sponge or lamb's wool mitt on your convertible top, as they will leave lint.
Do not use your scrub brush on the vinyl window, it will scratch and decrease visibility.
Make sure you rinse the top thoroughly with a stiff stream of water to remove all of the dirt, grime and suds from your convertible top cleaner.
After washing, dry your convertible fabric or vinyl top use a Microfiber Drying Towel. The best method is to use the towel to blot up the water. Do not use a terry cloth towel or diaper to dry your convertible, as they will leave lint on fabric convertible tops. The Microfiber Drying Towels will also work well on your clear vinyl windows.
Keep your convertible top protected like you do your paint. For best results, protect your fabric, cloth or canvas convertible top at least 3-4 times per year and your vinyl convertible top as often as every 4-5 weeks.
Fabric, cloth or canvas convertible tops tend to attract lint, dust, pollen and other things that fly around the air and find home on your convertible top. This can look especially bad on a black convertible top! To keep your convertible top looking sharp, keep a lint roller handy and when your top is dry, just run the roller over the top. You will be surprised how this simple step will bring back that crisp new look.
We hope the information in this article helps you maintain your convertible top so you can get the full enjoyment of owning a convertible without the worries of a costly convertible top replacement.
WEBSITE:
http://www.tampabayautonetwork.com/
TWITTER:
http://twitter.com/TmpAutoNtwrk
YOU TUBE:
http://www.youtube.com/user/TampaBayAutoNetwork
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Buying a Used Car on the Internet – a New Breed of Shoppers
What about the used car market online? How can consumers quantify the risk they are taking buying a used car sight unseen to make sure it is justified by the savings of such purchase?
Historically, conventional used car buyers have been able to kick its tires, take it for a spin, and haggle over the asking price of the car they like at their local dealer since the invention of the automobile. Because of the internet, a considerable number of these “conventional” used car buyers have found a myriad of ways to harness the power of the ever expanding online automotive resources and tools available at their disposal to make informed buying decisions.
It is from those online savvy buyers that a new breed has emerged - those who buy their used cars online, sight unseen. Although they represent a relatively small portion of the used car buyers, these brave souls see an unmatched advantage and find ways to minimize the risks. But what’s in it for them, one might ask? Simple, actually: selection and price. The internet offers easy access to a vast selection of vehicles worldwide - online car portals, classifieds, conventional dealers with online presence and pure online-only outfits, online used car brokers, to name but a few. Since most of them are looking for a specific vehicle, their chance of finding “the one” is far greater online compared to the confines of their local area.
Needless to say, virtually all of them are looking for a bargain. Our brave souls take risks, but these are justified, at least in their eyes, because of the savings they realize by utilizing the online channel. How do they do it? They, too, are well-armed with the online tools they need to make intelligent buying decisions. Here is how these online tools help them through the decision-making and buying steps of the process.
Fair Market Value
Determining whether a particular car is a bargain is a function of understanding its fair market value given its condition in the context of the current supply and demand. For the non-economists, of course, there are a number of excellent online market valuation sources available. Kelley Blue Book, NADAGuides, Edmunds.com are some of the most widely used car pricing providers. They all base estimates on a large number of recorded transactions and provide appraisal adjustments for the year, make, model, mileage, options, condition and even local market trends. As their appraisal algorithms differ slightly from each other, the estimates may vary, so checking more than one source is recommended. There are three major price levels: trade-in (or wholesale), private party and retail. Trade-in is what one would expect to get from a dealer for one’s used car – it is the lowest of the three averages, but it’s important to know as a baseline. Private party is what one would expect to get if one sells a car to another person, and retail is what one would pay for that car at a used car dealership.
Third Party Vehicle History Reports
In addition to the seller’s honest word and availability of service records our prudent innovators tap into the same third party vehicle history report providers the rest of the used car buyers use. CARFAX and Experian’s AutoCheck, initially serving the automotive professionals only, have been available to the general public for a number of years now. For $24.99 CARFAX offers 30 days and AutoCheck offers 60 days of unlimited vehicle history reports. These provide extensive reporting on the vehicles’ recorded history: date and type of registration and renewal events, as well as checking for recorded incidents, odometer rollbacks, junk, salvage, rebuilt titles, insurance loss, theft, lemon buybacks, etc. Many dealers realize the convincing power of stating the recorded facts and now offer free vehicle history reports for the cars they sell.
Car Inspections
Independent vehicle appraisal/inspection services with online presence have also seen a boost in their business. For $99.95, CARCHEX offers to give any automobile a 155-point pre-purchase auto inspection almost anywhere in the USA. Not too high a price for peace of mind, especially if it can save one from having to deal with surprise repairs. For half of this amount, one can find a mechanic in the local directory who can check out the car and even take it for a test drive on one's behalf and then fax a detailed report. Nevertheless, some of the more thrifty buyers have found ways to save themselves the nominal fees mechanics charge without depriving themselves of the peace of mind of a pre-sale inspection. Say, I live in Boston and happened to find a 1974 BMW 2002tii that I really wanted all the way in San Diego. Now, I would definitely want the car inspected prior to buying it. My thrifty side, however, wants to avoid the $150 fee a local company would charge me to inspect the vehicle. The solution? I would ask a fellow member of the BMW enthusiast community who lives in San Diego to take a look at the car for me. There are plenty of BMW forum members that would be more than happy to offer their time and expertise to a fellow east coast bimmerphile in need.
Shipping
There is a sea of car shipping companies that would gladly bring our pioneers their newly acquired vehicles home at a reasonable price. One example, Dependable Auto Shippers operate a fleet of state-of-the-art, satellite tracked vehicle shipping transporters, which allow one to track one’s car while it's on its way much like one would track a package. Yet, a healthy number of this new breed of used cars buyers opt for driving their new purchase home on their own instead. It’s cheaper, it’s faster, and admittedly, it’s much more exciting. Sellers specializing in online sales of this kind have also adapted to accommodate the demands of this new kind of used car buyer. Airport pickups for our weary yet eager buyers are more or less industry standard, these days. Sellers specializing exclusively in online sales, providing a hot meal for their ‘guests’ at the family table before they depart on their voyage home, is not unheard of.
Although buying a used car online sight unseen is not for the faint of heart, it is a growing phenomenon, which if executed carefully, could be a very rewarding experience for all parties involved.
WEBSITE:
http://www.tampabayautonetwork.com/
TWITTER:
http://twitter.com/TmpAutoNtwrk
YOU TUBE:
http://www.youtube.com/user/TampaBayAutoNetwork
FACEBOOK:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Brandon-FL/Tampa-Bay-AutoNetwork/45693399084?ref=search&sid=1365777692.1099710788..1#!!
Historically, conventional used car buyers have been able to kick its tires, take it for a spin, and haggle over the asking price of the car they like at their local dealer since the invention of the automobile. Because of the internet, a considerable number of these “conventional” used car buyers have found a myriad of ways to harness the power of the ever expanding online automotive resources and tools available at their disposal to make informed buying decisions.
It is from those online savvy buyers that a new breed has emerged - those who buy their used cars online, sight unseen. Although they represent a relatively small portion of the used car buyers, these brave souls see an unmatched advantage and find ways to minimize the risks. But what’s in it for them, one might ask? Simple, actually: selection and price. The internet offers easy access to a vast selection of vehicles worldwide - online car portals, classifieds, conventional dealers with online presence and pure online-only outfits, online used car brokers, to name but a few. Since most of them are looking for a specific vehicle, their chance of finding “the one” is far greater online compared to the confines of their local area.
Needless to say, virtually all of them are looking for a bargain. Our brave souls take risks, but these are justified, at least in their eyes, because of the savings they realize by utilizing the online channel. How do they do it? They, too, are well-armed with the online tools they need to make intelligent buying decisions. Here is how these online tools help them through the decision-making and buying steps of the process.
Fair Market Value
Determining whether a particular car is a bargain is a function of understanding its fair market value given its condition in the context of the current supply and demand. For the non-economists, of course, there are a number of excellent online market valuation sources available. Kelley Blue Book, NADAGuides, Edmunds.com are some of the most widely used car pricing providers. They all base estimates on a large number of recorded transactions and provide appraisal adjustments for the year, make, model, mileage, options, condition and even local market trends. As their appraisal algorithms differ slightly from each other, the estimates may vary, so checking more than one source is recommended. There are three major price levels: trade-in (or wholesale), private party and retail. Trade-in is what one would expect to get from a dealer for one’s used car – it is the lowest of the three averages, but it’s important to know as a baseline. Private party is what one would expect to get if one sells a car to another person, and retail is what one would pay for that car at a used car dealership.
Third Party Vehicle History Reports
In addition to the seller’s honest word and availability of service records our prudent innovators tap into the same third party vehicle history report providers the rest of the used car buyers use. CARFAX and Experian’s AutoCheck, initially serving the automotive professionals only, have been available to the general public for a number of years now. For $24.99 CARFAX offers 30 days and AutoCheck offers 60 days of unlimited vehicle history reports. These provide extensive reporting on the vehicles’ recorded history: date and type of registration and renewal events, as well as checking for recorded incidents, odometer rollbacks, junk, salvage, rebuilt titles, insurance loss, theft, lemon buybacks, etc. Many dealers realize the convincing power of stating the recorded facts and now offer free vehicle history reports for the cars they sell.
Car Inspections
Independent vehicle appraisal/inspection services with online presence have also seen a boost in their business. For $99.95, CARCHEX offers to give any automobile a 155-point pre-purchase auto inspection almost anywhere in the USA. Not too high a price for peace of mind, especially if it can save one from having to deal with surprise repairs. For half of this amount, one can find a mechanic in the local directory who can check out the car and even take it for a test drive on one's behalf and then fax a detailed report. Nevertheless, some of the more thrifty buyers have found ways to save themselves the nominal fees mechanics charge without depriving themselves of the peace of mind of a pre-sale inspection. Say, I live in Boston and happened to find a 1974 BMW 2002tii that I really wanted all the way in San Diego. Now, I would definitely want the car inspected prior to buying it. My thrifty side, however, wants to avoid the $150 fee a local company would charge me to inspect the vehicle. The solution? I would ask a fellow member of the BMW enthusiast community who lives in San Diego to take a look at the car for me. There are plenty of BMW forum members that would be more than happy to offer their time and expertise to a fellow east coast bimmerphile in need.
Shipping
There is a sea of car shipping companies that would gladly bring our pioneers their newly acquired vehicles home at a reasonable price. One example, Dependable Auto Shippers operate a fleet of state-of-the-art, satellite tracked vehicle shipping transporters, which allow one to track one’s car while it's on its way much like one would track a package. Yet, a healthy number of this new breed of used cars buyers opt for driving their new purchase home on their own instead. It’s cheaper, it’s faster, and admittedly, it’s much more exciting. Sellers specializing in online sales of this kind have also adapted to accommodate the demands of this new kind of used car buyer. Airport pickups for our weary yet eager buyers are more or less industry standard, these days. Sellers specializing exclusively in online sales, providing a hot meal for their ‘guests’ at the family table before they depart on their voyage home, is not unheard of.
Although buying a used car online sight unseen is not for the faint of heart, it is a growing phenomenon, which if executed carefully, could be a very rewarding experience for all parties involved.
WEBSITE:
http://www.tampabayautonetwork.com/
TWITTER:
http://twitter.com/TmpAutoNtwrk
YOU TUBE:
http://www.youtube.com/user/TampaBayAutoNetwork
FACEBOOK:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Brandon-FL/Tampa-Bay-AutoNetwork/45693399084?ref=search&sid=1365777692.1099710788..1#!!
Monday, March 8, 2010
Seller or Trader.... Which Are You?
Automobiles are one of the few things in life you can sell yourself or trade in when you decide to upgrade. After all, when was the last time your local appliance store gave you a few bucks for your old washing machine when you bought a new one?
So what's the best way to get rid of your old car? Should you sell it yourself or settle for a dealer trade-in? It depends on what your vehicle has to offer and the payoff you want.
"Trade-in is prepackaged food. It's not as good as homemade, but it is convenient," says Mark Perleberg, lead auto expert with NADAguides.com.
"Selling it yourself is like a home-cooked meal. It takes more effort."
That extra effort, however, can boost your profit.
The case for selling
Selling your old car takes more time and know-how, but you can potentially get more money than when trading it in.
That's because you cut out the middleman, the dealer who must spend money to advertise and spruce up your car before he resells it at a profit. The dealer considers those costs before arriving at the amount he'll give you for your old auto.
A dealer's cut of the profit is what prompts many car owners to opt for self-selling. But remember, you're then going to face many of the same issues that the car dealer would.
If your vehicle is older or in less-than-pristine shape, you'll probably have to get it detailed to make it attractive to buyers. You may even have to spend money on repairs.
You also have to consider your time investment in marketing the vehicle and showing it to prospective buyers, which would most likely be on weekends or evenings.
If you do decide to sell, realistically assess your auto's marketability. Charlie Vogelheim, former executive editor of the automobile price guide Kelley Blue Book, notes that selling a Toyota, a popular brand, is a lot easier than trying to market a Daewoo.
Location also comes into marketing play. A two-wheel drive sport utility vehicle might sell quickly in Florida, but will be shunned in harsher climes where four-wheel drive is a winter-driving necessity. Sales appeal can even extend to color. "White, silver and black are popular colors," Vogelheim says. "Purple is not."
When your car does sell, you'll have to orchestrate payment. No personal checks, please, but what about a cashier's check from the buyer? How about monthly payments?
"You have to decide what type of payment you'll accept, which adds to what some people might call the hassle part (of selling a car)," says Vogelheim.
Another hassle is the paperwork you'll need to complete to ensure that ownership is transferred correctly. Do you have the title? Do you know what your state requires when a car is sold to another consumer?
Benefits of Trading:
Sales Tax savings is one. The allowance you get for the Trade-In will come off of the selling price of the vehicle you are buying, in turn, reducing the Sales Tax amount. Another is it's hassle-free. No phone calls and rearranging your schedule to meet people that don't show up.
WEBSITE:
http://www.tampabayautonetwork.com/
TWITTER:
http://twitter.com/TmpAutoNtwrk
YOU TUBE:
http://www.youtube.com/user/TampaBayAutoNetwork
FACEBOOK:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Brandon-FL/Tampa-Bay-AutoNetwork/45693399084?ref=nf#!/pages/Brandon-FL/Tampa-Bay-AutoNetwork/45693399084?ref=nf
So what's the best way to get rid of your old car? Should you sell it yourself or settle for a dealer trade-in? It depends on what your vehicle has to offer and the payoff you want.
"Trade-in is prepackaged food. It's not as good as homemade, but it is convenient," says Mark Perleberg, lead auto expert with NADAguides.com.
"Selling it yourself is like a home-cooked meal. It takes more effort."
That extra effort, however, can boost your profit.
The case for selling
Selling your old car takes more time and know-how, but you can potentially get more money than when trading it in.
That's because you cut out the middleman, the dealer who must spend money to advertise and spruce up your car before he resells it at a profit. The dealer considers those costs before arriving at the amount he'll give you for your old auto.
A dealer's cut of the profit is what prompts many car owners to opt for self-selling. But remember, you're then going to face many of the same issues that the car dealer would.
If your vehicle is older or in less-than-pristine shape, you'll probably have to get it detailed to make it attractive to buyers. You may even have to spend money on repairs.
You also have to consider your time investment in marketing the vehicle and showing it to prospective buyers, which would most likely be on weekends or evenings.
If you do decide to sell, realistically assess your auto's marketability. Charlie Vogelheim, former executive editor of the automobile price guide Kelley Blue Book, notes that selling a Toyota, a popular brand, is a lot easier than trying to market a Daewoo.
Location also comes into marketing play. A two-wheel drive sport utility vehicle might sell quickly in Florida, but will be shunned in harsher climes where four-wheel drive is a winter-driving necessity. Sales appeal can even extend to color. "White, silver and black are popular colors," Vogelheim says. "Purple is not."
When your car does sell, you'll have to orchestrate payment. No personal checks, please, but what about a cashier's check from the buyer? How about monthly payments?
"You have to decide what type of payment you'll accept, which adds to what some people might call the hassle part (of selling a car)," says Vogelheim.
Another hassle is the paperwork you'll need to complete to ensure that ownership is transferred correctly. Do you have the title? Do you know what your state requires when a car is sold to another consumer?
Benefits of Trading:
Sales Tax savings is one. The allowance you get for the Trade-In will come off of the selling price of the vehicle you are buying, in turn, reducing the Sales Tax amount. Another is it's hassle-free. No phone calls and rearranging your schedule to meet people that don't show up.
WEBSITE:
http://www.tampabayautonetwork.com/
TWITTER:
http://twitter.com/TmpAutoNtwrk
YOU TUBE:
http://www.youtube.com/user/TampaBayAutoNetwork
FACEBOOK:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Brandon-FL/Tampa-Bay-AutoNetwork/45693399084?ref=nf#!/pages/Brandon-FL/Tampa-Bay-AutoNetwork/45693399084?ref=nf
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Auto Sales Rise in January 2010
DETROIT — Toyota's auto sales fell 16 percent in January, a month in which it recalled millions of vehicles and halted sales of several models. Most other automakers reported higher sales and looked for opportunities to snatch sales from the troubled Japanese automaker.
Automakers expected sales to improve over January 2009, when they dipped to a 26-year low due to the tough economy.
General Motors said its January sales rose 14 percent because of higher fleet and crossover vehicle sales. Crossovers are SUV-like in size but sit on a car instead of a truck frame. Ford Motor Co., meanwhile, saw sales rise 25 percent on higher fleet sales, while Nissan's rose 16 percent, thanks to higher demand for sedans like the Versa, Sentra and Maxima. Hyundai's sales rose 24 percent as sales of the newly redesigned Tucson sport utility vehicle doubled.
Chrysler fell 8 percent on declining sales of Ram trucks and Jeeps, while Honda's sales slipped 5 percent on weaker SUV and crossover demand.
Toyota said on Jan. 26 it would suspend sales of the Camry sedan, its top-selling vehicle, and seven other cars and trucks following a recall over sticky accelerator pedals that could cause sudden acceleration.
"There is no doubt that the stop sale, which was put in place last week, impacted our sales," said Bob Carter, Toyota's group vice president and general manager.
Car-buying Web site Edmunds.com predicted Toyota's U.S. market share would drop to 14.7 percent in January, its lowest level since March 2006.
Showing how quickly the newer, leaner GM can react, it offered zero percent financing and other incentives to Toyota drivers last week. Ford also offered incentives to Toyota drivers who trade in vehicles.
"This was an opportunity to help customers who are truly concerned about their personal safety," she said.
George Pipas, Ford's top sales analyst, said he did not see evidence that Ford was taking buyers from Toyota. Pipas said much of Ford's sales increase came from a jump in sales to rental car companies, governments and other large fleet buyers. Ford said fleet sales jumped more than 150 percent over January 2009, an indication that the credit crunch was lifting and businesses could spend on fleets again.
WEBSITE:
http://www.tampabayautonetwork.com/
TWITTER:
http://twitter.com/TmpAutoNtwrk
YOU TUBE:
http://www.youtube.com/user/TampaBayAutoNetwork
Automakers expected sales to improve over January 2009, when they dipped to a 26-year low due to the tough economy.
General Motors said its January sales rose 14 percent because of higher fleet and crossover vehicle sales. Crossovers are SUV-like in size but sit on a car instead of a truck frame. Ford Motor Co., meanwhile, saw sales rise 25 percent on higher fleet sales, while Nissan's rose 16 percent, thanks to higher demand for sedans like the Versa, Sentra and Maxima. Hyundai's sales rose 24 percent as sales of the newly redesigned Tucson sport utility vehicle doubled.
Chrysler fell 8 percent on declining sales of Ram trucks and Jeeps, while Honda's sales slipped 5 percent on weaker SUV and crossover demand.
Toyota said on Jan. 26 it would suspend sales of the Camry sedan, its top-selling vehicle, and seven other cars and trucks following a recall over sticky accelerator pedals that could cause sudden acceleration.
"There is no doubt that the stop sale, which was put in place last week, impacted our sales," said Bob Carter, Toyota's group vice president and general manager.
Car-buying Web site Edmunds.com predicted Toyota's U.S. market share would drop to 14.7 percent in January, its lowest level since March 2006.
Showing how quickly the newer, leaner GM can react, it offered zero percent financing and other incentives to Toyota drivers last week. Ford also offered incentives to Toyota drivers who trade in vehicles.
"This was an opportunity to help customers who are truly concerned about their personal safety," she said.
George Pipas, Ford's top sales analyst, said he did not see evidence that Ford was taking buyers from Toyota. Pipas said much of Ford's sales increase came from a jump in sales to rental car companies, governments and other large fleet buyers. Ford said fleet sales jumped more than 150 percent over January 2009, an indication that the credit crunch was lifting and businesses could spend on fleets again.
WEBSITE:
http://www.tampabayautonetwork.com/
TWITTER:
http://twitter.com/TmpAutoNtwrk
YOU TUBE:
http://www.youtube.com/user/TampaBayAutoNetwork
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