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. |
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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. |
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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. |
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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... |
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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. |
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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. |
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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. |
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Recalls a troubling fact of life in auto industry
I’m the first to admit that automobile recalls are an inconvenience. |
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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. |
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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 |
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Answering up to customers' biggest buying beefs
Some explanations for the top complaints that consumers have with auto dealerships |
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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 |
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Some staff may be out of sight, but not out of mind
Service technicians, administrative workers perform essential tasks that go largely unseen |
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The peaks and valleys of a challenging year
Best and Worst Moments of 2009 - Happy holidays and all the best in 2010! |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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You've got questions? Here are some answers
Responses to queries on matters such as the HST, insurance rates, industry trends, buying on eBay |
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New rules make dealers more accountable to public
Update of Ontario act tackles sales practices, advertising standards, scrutiny of salespeople |
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Co-op programs put students on inside track to jobs
Many leverage their internship experiences at dealerships into full-time positions |
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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 |
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Optional add-ons can protect, enhance your purchase
But customers should never feel pressured by offers from dealership's business manager |
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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. |
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Voluntary agreement will forestall right-to-repair bill
Auto manufacturers agree to share diagnostic info with independent garages |
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Skimping on maintenance is truly false economy
Cost-cutting owners could end up paying dearly by putting off regular maintenance |
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Barrie show gives students inside track to careers
The Georgian Outdoor Auto Show, the largest of its kind, is produced entirely by students |
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Old school meets new school in dealerships
Young, plugged-in salespeople join savvy veterans with instincts for customers' needs |
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Carmakers, dealers engrossed by the other CSI
Customer Satisfaction Index used to monitor, improve all aspects of the buying experience |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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For used-car buyers, dealerships offer security
Strict test of vehicles assures that what you see on the lot is of value |
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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 |
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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 |
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Carmakers, dealers top up deals to attract graduates
Before purchasing, be mindful of model size, insurance and useful electronic aids |
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Innovator was friend and mentor to many
Ross McKenzie, 73, helped steer new course for auto dealerships |
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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 |
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Why closing dealerships will help General Motors
I've received many emails in recent weeks about the closing of General Motors dealerships across Canada. |
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`Right to repair' bill aims to fix what isn't broken
Private member's bill would put new-car dealers at disadvantage |
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Open letter to fellow dealerships on the GM closings
Competitor or not, there's no joy in seeing people lose their jobs |
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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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