Saying farewell after a tough, but rewarding year
Outgoing message is: This is an ideal time to purchase a new vehicle |
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No need for potential buyers to shy away from discontinued models
Dealers and carmakers must support vehicles with after-sales service, warranties and parts |
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Protecting your privacy a top priority in this business
Unlike other retailers, auto dealers have tough policies to keep your personal data secure |
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Dealer-carmaker relationship healthy but a little less personal
Principal misses days when face-to-face contact between partners more common |
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Modern-day dealerships are designed with you in mind
Imposing, yes, but built to put customers at ease |
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So many high-tech tools available to shop for new car
The future is now – myriad options for consumers who need to contact a dealer |
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How to navigate the Internet when car shopping
Get as much quality information as you can from manufacturers, dealers and reviewers |
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Rekindle your passion with cars that set your heart racing
Sponsorship important to new vehicle sales |
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Satellite radio isn't only hip, it's boss on the road
Satellite radio is thriving in Canada. A little more than three years ago, satellite radio hit the airways in this country. |
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Toronto auto show success suggests drivers are keen to go green
Despite economic woes, hybrid, diesel or electric options sparked interest among CIAS visitors |
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Auto brokers won't necessarily find a better deal in the long run
The idea of sidestepping the dealership experience, when buying a car, may appeal to some car buyers. Not everybody enjoys the thought of visiting a dealership, negotiating... |
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Canada needs to up the ante to get clunkers off road
New incentive program offers $300 for old cars, while Germany and U.S. offer $4,000 or more |
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Federal plan will free up credit for buyers and dealers
$12-billion support fund announced in budget will help dealers restock and finance customers |
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The future is electric and eclectic at Toronto auto show
Over 1,000 new models and concept vehicles will make their debut at next Friday's opening |
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Teen drivers need crash course in tough love
Our kids are a menace on the road and it's time to get to root of problem |
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Financial crisis creates opportunity for auto shoppers
Manufacturer incentives and low interest rates combine to help buyers whose future is secure |
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Warranties can sweeten the deal when buying a vehicle
Many different options available for different levels of coverage |
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In search of new car industry answers
In today's column, I address questions from readers on a wide range of topics – many of which, not surprisingly, are focused on the state of the economy and the automobile industry. |
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Many changes ahead for auto dealers in '09
Dealers must adapt to fuel-efficient vehicles, increased Internet use and Big 3 restructuring |
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Communication is key for car-happy customers
Don't be afraid to use different media to reach your clients, and keep their needs in mind |
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Forget the mall, try these gifts from your local car dealer
If you can't afford a car, gifts for car lovers range from hats and jackets to keyless remote starters |
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Arbitration agency helps resolve disputes for car buyers
A customer – let’s call him Joe – purchased a new car from a franchised auto dealership in Mississauga. The car ran great for the first nine months. |
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Plan before an accident and save yourself some grief
Winter weather has arrived and that typically means a spike in traffic accidents across the country. |
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Now’s not the time to slam the auto industry
On Wednesday, a cartoon in the Toronto Star took a cheap shot at the North America auto industry. Speaking on behalf of the Toronto Automobile Dealers Association, this cartoon was senseless and in bad taste. |
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Customers will drive changes at new-car dealerships
There’s been much discussion about the future of the automotive sector in Canada. I’m not going to make any bold predictions about our industry, but I would like to comment about where new car dealerships are headed over the next 20 years. |
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Government should encourage alternate-fuel research
In his new book, Hot, Flat and Crowded, Thomas Friedman makes a convincing case for scaling back our reliance on fossil fuels. He argues that developing green technologies would invigorate the US economy, reduce harmful CO2 emissions and lessen the country’s dependency on foreign oil. |
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Buy your winter tires now to beat the rush in Quebec
Winter is fast approaching and motorists across Canada will no doubt be preparing their vehicles for the nasty weather ahead. |
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Car dealers do not sell extended warranties by phone
The Canadian government launched the National Do Not Call List on September 30, a program aimed at preventing telemarketers from contacting people who have signed up. |
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Leaders must address the GTA’s harmful gridlock now
One of the most common complaints I hear from customers is about traffic congestion in the GTA and how it’s only getting worse. |
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Plan carefully when buying a car in tight financial times
Assess your true needs, arrange financing first and stick with dealers you know you can trust |
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Breaking down myths about dealership repair shops
Trained technicians, advanced equipment at rates comparable to independent garages |
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Read the fine print before signing on the dotted line
It's up to vehicle buyers to understand the rights and obligations of lease or purchase agreements |
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Toronto's new tax is a slap in the face to car owners
City residents now pay $60 more per year than other Ontario drivers, with nothing in return |
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Look, listen and learn at Georgian College auto show
Organized by students, giant outdoor exhibition features guest speakers, green zone and
200 cars |
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Service managers need more than just technical skills
Running dealer's shop involves self-promotion, customer relations, personnel, budgeting |
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Homework is key to getting a good deal on a used car
Before visiting a dealer, decide which make, model and price range best suits your needs |
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Give your dealership a chance to resolve any complaints
If service or purchase issues can't be resolved with dealer or maker, there are other options |
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Most auto recalls are handled without issue in Canada
Although there is no law forcing our dealerships to repair defects for free, it is just good business |
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High gas prices, low resale values may doom auto leasing
GM Canada announces end to its lease business, as other makers reassess viability of continuing |
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Passing the torch can be tricky for dealership owners
Succession planning is essential to ensure thriving car business stays on right track |
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A few simple steps can help protect your car from thieves
Avoid using key racks, always lock the doors and install immobilizer to keep your vehicle safe |
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Alcohol ignition interlock device an effective tool
It only goes so far to deter people because number admitting to drunk driving going up
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Trends indicate higher gas prices are here to stay
New SUV worth $40,000 in 2006 worth $12,000 today on the open market
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When dealership closes, customers are protected
Joanne got a letter in the mail, informing her that her local car dealership was closing its doors. This came as a complete surprise to her, as she had always...
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Automobiles have played a key role in Canada's success
Despite looming layoffs, one out of every six jobs in this province is linked to the auto industry |
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Car business treats women as equals, female dealer says
Last July, Stacey Polyschuk became a dealer principal at Saturn of Brampton, one of the few females to hold that prestigious title in the GTA. |
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Awards are nice, but don't let them cloud your judgment
Vehicles judged as best by experts or journalists may not fit your needs, budget or lifestyle |
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Auto technicians will be in high demand over next decade
Career is challenging, respected and well-paid but shortfall predicted as baby boomers retire |
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Car dealers are crying out for more female sales reps
Automotive sales is an exciting, fulfilling career, but outdated stereotypes may discourage women |
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Setting the record straight about the credit process
Contrary to news report, reputable dealerships do not run checks without your knowledge |
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Lessons from the trenches of the retail car business
Hiring the right people, building relationships and adapting to change are the keys to success |
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Dealers' new president grew up around car talk
Dad's Toyota franchise introduced him to world of retail auto industry and a rewarding career |
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