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Ron Loveys Editorials
Current TADA President 2009 - 2010

Readers sure are passionate about automobiles

A year ago, I assumed the presidency of the Toronto Automobile Dealers’ Association (TADA), and now my term has come to an end.

Optimism is back big-time in once-embattled industry
This is my second-last column on behalf of the Toronto Automobile Dealers Association in Wheels, and I’d thought I’d use this space to share some thoughts about our industry.

Be sure to check your credit history before buying
George is in his mid-30s and he’s looking to buy his first new car.

Award-winning cars help buyers make better choices
Earlier this year, two of the Ford models that I represent – the Ford Fusion Hybrid and the Ford Transit Connect – won top honours at the North America Car and Truck of the Year Awards...

Pre-trip inspection helps ensure hassle-free travels
At this time of year, many motorists are starting to plan summer vacations that involve long-distance driving.

Top 10 things all drivers should know
Several weeks ago, I learned about a car owner whose vehicle had broken down near Bobcaygeon, Ont. He didn’t know what to do or where to turn.

Many new-car dealerships are going green
There has been a lot of media attention focused on environmentally-friendly vehicles. But little has been written about what new car dealerships are doing to become more energy efficient.

Recalls a troubling fact of life in auto industry
I’m the first to admit that automobile recalls are an inconvenience.

Corporate, personal branding identify dealership
When you visit a new car dealership, the branding elements inside the store are meant to capture your attention and deliver a message.

Dealerships' digs an extension of corporate branding
Carmakers go to great lengths to cultivate their brands, and dealers are a key part of the process

Answering up to customers' biggest buying beefs
Some explanations for the top complaints that consumers have with auto dealerships

Dealership gender gap becoming thing of the past
More and more women are entering the retail car industry, and they're working in all facets of it

Some staff may be out of sight, but not out of mind
Service technicians, administrative workers perform essential tasks that go largely unseen

The peaks and valleys of a challenging year
Best and Worst Moments of 2009 - Happy holidays and all the best in 2010!

The 10 top developments in a year of startling changes
Despite all the doom and gloom, 2009 still had its share of positive news for the industry

For new-car buyers, the holidays are a treat
Dealers aiming to hit year-end numbers are more likely to make a deal with consumers

The top 10 ways not to buy your next new car
Avoid any vehicle that fits your driving style and budget, and ignore safety and fuel ratings

Curbsider deals may be more than you bargained for
You have little recourse if that bargain vehicle turns out to be hot, or has structural damage

What do you do when your dealership closes down?
Even if your records go to another dealership, you're not obligated to do business there

You've got questions? Here are some answers
Responses to queries on matters such as the HST, insurance rates, industry trends, buying on eBay

New rules make dealers more accountable to public
Update of Ontario act tackles sales practices, advertising standards, scrutiny of salespeople

Co-op programs put students on inside track to jobs
Many leverage their internship experiences at dealerships into full-time positions

Steering clear of pitfalls if you get into an accident
It's important to plan ahead to avoid excessive towing charges and other dubious practices

Optional add-ons can protect, enhance your purchase
But customers should never feel pressured by offers from dealership's business manager

Offers of ultra-low interest rates don't tell the full story
Car ads in newspapers and on TV are meant to grab your attention.

Voluntary agreement will forestall right-to-repair bill
Auto manufacturers agree to share diagnostic info with independent garages

Skimping on maintenance is truly false economy
Cost-cutting owners could end up paying dearly by putting off regular maintenance

Barrie show gives students inside track to careers
The Georgian Outdoor Auto Show, the largest of its kind, is produced entirely by students

Old school meets new school in dealerships
Young, plugged-in salespeople join savvy veterans with instincts for customers' needs

Carmakers, dealers engrossed by the other CSI
Customer Satisfaction Index used to monitor, improve all aspects of the buying experience

The best time for you to buy? It's when you feel ready
Forget urban legends about dealership quotas, concentrate on your research and finances

Lending crisis forcing dealers to seek Ottawa's help
Restricted access to capital is hurting the day-to-day operation of the entire auto industry

Car-buying services overlook that price isn't everything
Don't leave buying a car to a third-party, but begin a relationship that could last for years

For used-car buyers, dealerships offer security
Strict test of vehicles assures that what you see on the lot is of value

McGuinty's plan has no juice to help car buyers
Ontario's subsidy to boost sales of electric cars is both misguided and poorly timed

How to save time and money on your trade-in
Here are some dos and don'ts when preparing to part with your family vehicle

Carmakers, dealers top up deals to attract graduates
Before purchasing, be mindful of model size, insurance and useful electronic aids

Innovator was friend and mentor to many
Ross McKenzie, 73, helped steer new course for auto dealerships

It's summertime - and the focus should be on safety
A few slight adjustments to your driving habits will slash your risk of getting into an accident

Why closing dealerships will help General Motors
I've received many emails in recent weeks about the closing of General Motors dealerships across Canada.

`Right to repair' bill aims to fix what isn't broken
Private member's bill would put new-car dealers at disadvantage

Open letter to fellow dealerships on the GM closings
Competitor or not, there's no joy in seeing people lose their jobs

The long road to owning an auto dealership
New president of TADA takes on responsibility for the Wheels column, starting here and now



 
 
 
 
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