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Trends in the Automotive Industry
Over the past several months in this column, I've tried to inform you on key issues and trends in the automotive industry and how they might affect consumers. But just as important, I've tried to encourage an ongoing dialogue to get feedback from consumers.
I can tell you that, from the dozens of columns I've written, I've received hundreds of letters about the many key topics that were covered. Some have applauded my opinions; others have told me that I was wrong, single minded and only promoting the new car dealers. One reader wrote to tell me that I was fear mongering, in that he had bought and sold a number of used cars over the years and had never had any problems.
My overall intent is to create a comfort zone . . . to make you feel more confident when you walk into that dealership showroom or office by giving you as much information as possible. And while some columns created more controversy than others, all columns dealt with topics that were timely and made a difference.
For example, we outlined safeguards for private vehicle purchasers so they'd be sure to get their money's worth.
We reminded you that, behind every media report of an accident, no matter how small, is likely a story of pain, suffering and family devastation. Flesh, bones and muscle are no match for steel and plastic when it comes to car accidents.
We dismissed the myth that women need help from a man when buying a car or truck by pointing out that women, in fact, influence four out of every five purchases.
We looked at how our industry is helping to clean up the environment, notably the Car Heaven program, and suggested ways consumers can help too.
We carefully examined a proposed new Lemon Law (for consumers who discover a substantial manufacturer defect in a new vehicle) and revealed that its remedies were already adequately covered under the Canadian Automotive Manufacturers Vehicle Arbitration Plan.
We did several columns on the new employment era in the automotive industry and the high level of education, that is a must, for anyone pursuing this lucrative career ' whether it be in the technical or administrative side of the business.
Our dealers, through this column, examined and promoted universal standards for collision repair shops, which meant greater protection for consumers.
We discussed advertising guidelines and codes of ethics and conduct adopted by all registered dealers in Ontario, and told readers that we certainly do not embrace all the advertising that is currently taking place.
We revealed the best ways to winterize your vehicle. We also told you how to store it properly over the colder months, so you can get it up and running with no problems in spring.
We looked at the Kyoto controversy and pointed out that politicians should come clean and tell us all the consequences of its implementation, including loss of jobs, consumer costs and how it will affect our daily lives.
We did series of columns on safety, delving into such topics as drunk driving; breathalyzers and the law; the four levels of child safety when traveling in a vehicle; and the statistics, childishness and absurdity of so-called road rage. More recently, we gave you safety tips on winter driving and holiday driving.
As we enter 2003, it's important for myself, as president of the T A D A and a representative of Ontario's automotive industry, and for you, as a consumer, to continue this worthwhile dialogue.
I look forward to your feedback and comments in the New Year. Please let me know if there are other important topics you want covered. You can reach me at billd@tada.ca In the meantime, have a happy New Year and above all, DRIVE SAFELY.
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