DETROIT — The redesigned 2012 Ford Focus compact has been certified by the EPA at 40 mpg on the highway and 28 mpg in city driving, Ford Motor Co. said today. Those numbers are roughly the same as those for Ford's smaller Fiesta car, setting up a potential marketing problem for the automaker.
The Focus' fuel economy ratings are for the version with the Super Fuel Economy package and a six-speed automatic transmission. The Focus SE with that package carries a sticker price of $19,655, including destination.
The Ford Fiesta subcompact with the same package is rated at 40 mpg highway and 29 mpg city. The Fiesta SE sedan starts at $14,995, including transportation. The SFE Super Fuel Economy package adds $695 to the price tag, a Ford spokesman said.
Excluding the package, the Fiesta is rated at 38 mpg highway and 29 mpg city.
Higher gasoline prices ahead
The new Focus is debuting just as the Department of Energy is predicting higher gasoline prices at the pumps in the months ahead in part because of political unrest in Libya, a major oil exporter.
Gasoline prices could rise to $3.50 a gallon, and some pundits have predicted $5 a gallon. The current national average price for gasoline is $3.31 a gallon, according to nationalgasaverage.com.
The Focus joins a slew of new or redesigned small cars from Chevrolet, Hyundai and Honda that all promise higher fuel economy than their predecessors.
Last week, Honda said that this spring it will introduce a redesigned Civic HF model with a 1.8-liter gasoline engine that is expected to get 41 mpg in highway driving.
'Fortunate' timing
Jim Farley, Ford's global marketing chief, said the automaker is "fortunate" to be bringing out a redesigned compact car in the midst of rising gasoline prices.
"In 2008, when the fuel prices escalated, we were launching the F series. And many reporters asked me, 'Hey, Jim what's it like launching the F series in the face of $4 a gallon gas?" Farley laughingly said at an event in New York yesterday. "The segment that grew the most the last time gas prices escalated in the U.S. was the compact segment."
Farley said the Focus' competitive fuel economy -- when compared directly with the Fiesta -- won't usurp Fiesta sales.
He said it's "pretty typical" for subcompacts to trail compacts in fuel economy despite being smaller vehicles.
"There is more engine technology in (compact) cars than in the (subcompacts)," Farley said. "But the Fiesta is still the top fuel economy leader in its segment, and the Focus will be at the top of its segment."
Different buyers
Ford said the vehicles target two different buyers. The Fiesta tends to skew toward buyers in their 20s, and the Focus attracts an older set.
The 2012 Focus is expected to go on sale next month. It will come in two body styles: a four-door sedan that starts at $16,995 and a five-door hatchback that starts at $18,790. Both prices include shipping.
The fuel economy ranking of the Focus with the Super Fuel Economy package puts it neck-and-neck with its main competitor, the Hyundai Elantra, which is rated at 40 mpg highway and 29 mpg city.
The Focus is Ford's fourth vehicle with an EPA-certified rating of 40 mpg or more.
"Our customers tell us that fuel economy is the top reason for purchasing a Focus," said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president of Global Product Development, in a statement.
Ford's other models to achieve at least 40 mpg are the 2011 Fiesta SE with the fuel economy package, the Ford Fusion Hybrid and the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid. Both hybrids earn 41 mpg in the city.
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Friday, February 25, 2011
Alternative-fuelers’ day is coming -- but not for a while
Again this year, auto show visitors are fascinated by electric cars, hybrids and all manner of alternative-fuel vehicles.
They check fit and finish. They climb inside and look closely at design, appointments, even carpets. They question salesmen about price, equipment, range and delivery time.
One thing most of the visitors don’t do: They don’t buy those vehicles.
Last year, Americans bought an estimated 275,000 alternative-fuelers, according to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. That’s about 2.4 percent of the 11.6 million new vehicles sold in the United States in 2010. Not exactly a tidal wave of demand. And more than half (140,928) of those sales were Toyota Prius units.
But don’t write off the hybrids and others in that category. Their day is coming; it just hasn’t arrived yet. And it won’t arrive tomorrow or the next day. Price is a major obstacle; $41,000 for a Chevrolet Volt? You’ve got to be kidding.
And driving range is just as great a hurdle for the pure electrics. Would-be owners are afraid of being stranded out in the boondocks, far from an electrical outlet, or even on an expressway on the way home from work.
Manufacturers speak cautiously of a 100-mile range. Sure, on a flat, straight road with no air conditioning, no headlights, no radio or other energy-draining gadget. With air, headlights, etc., the range is likely to be closer to 60 miles, maybe less. And can you imagine being stuck in a traffic jam on a summer day with no air conditioning?
Someday, we may all be driving vehicles that don’t gulp imported oil, but don’t set your alarm or mark your calendar. I figure that day is at least a generation away. Until then, Americans will stick to their internal combustion engines.
Trucks are back again
U.S. sales of light vehicles are rising, and the reason is spelled t-r-u-c-k-s. Trucks.
Truck sales were unbelievably high in the1990s and the early years of this century. They reached their apex in 2004 with 9.2 million. That’s right; more than 9 million trucks were sold in a single year!
Trucks outsold cars from 2002 through 2007.
Then came the summer of 2008 and $4-a-gallon gasoline, and there went the truck boom.
And now trucks are roaring again. Not as loudly as before, but loud enough. They outsold cars in October, November and December and again in January.
Let’s look at some numbers. In January, sales of small cars were up 14 percent over last year. Mid-range cars (the industry’s best-selling segment) rose just 5 percent, and the near-luxury, luxury and highest-priced cars climbed 10 percent.
Small change compared with truck gains. SUV sales advanced 21 percent in January; pickups, 24 percent and crossovers, 30 percent. The big surprise was the minivan segment, which reported a sales increase of 59 percent for the month. Have soccer moms had a change of heart?
But as truck sales rise, so do gasoline prices. And now Middle East tensions are pushing prices up further. The average nationwide price for a gallon of regular today is $3.25, up from $3.15 last week and from $2.70 a year ago, according to gasoline price tracker gasbuddy.com.
In the last truck boom, the Detroit 3 virtually ignored cars and turned all their efforts toward trucks. Dealers had little or nothing to show shoppers when cars came back in style.
Forewarned is forearmed.
They check fit and finish. They climb inside and look closely at design, appointments, even carpets. They question salesmen about price, equipment, range and delivery time.
One thing most of the visitors don’t do: They don’t buy those vehicles.
Last year, Americans bought an estimated 275,000 alternative-fuelers, according to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. That’s about 2.4 percent of the 11.6 million new vehicles sold in the United States in 2010. Not exactly a tidal wave of demand. And more than half (140,928) of those sales were Toyota Prius units.
But don’t write off the hybrids and others in that category. Their day is coming; it just hasn’t arrived yet. And it won’t arrive tomorrow or the next day. Price is a major obstacle; $41,000 for a Chevrolet Volt? You’ve got to be kidding.
And driving range is just as great a hurdle for the pure electrics. Would-be owners are afraid of being stranded out in the boondocks, far from an electrical outlet, or even on an expressway on the way home from work.
Manufacturers speak cautiously of a 100-mile range. Sure, on a flat, straight road with no air conditioning, no headlights, no radio or other energy-draining gadget. With air, headlights, etc., the range is likely to be closer to 60 miles, maybe less. And can you imagine being stuck in a traffic jam on a summer day with no air conditioning?
Someday, we may all be driving vehicles that don’t gulp imported oil, but don’t set your alarm or mark your calendar. I figure that day is at least a generation away. Until then, Americans will stick to their internal combustion engines.
Trucks are back again
U.S. sales of light vehicles are rising, and the reason is spelled t-r-u-c-k-s. Trucks.
Truck sales were unbelievably high in the1990s and the early years of this century. They reached their apex in 2004 with 9.2 million. That’s right; more than 9 million trucks were sold in a single year!
Trucks outsold cars from 2002 through 2007.
Then came the summer of 2008 and $4-a-gallon gasoline, and there went the truck boom.
And now trucks are roaring again. Not as loudly as before, but loud enough. They outsold cars in October, November and December and again in January.
Let’s look at some numbers. In January, sales of small cars were up 14 percent over last year. Mid-range cars (the industry’s best-selling segment) rose just 5 percent, and the near-luxury, luxury and highest-priced cars climbed 10 percent.
Small change compared with truck gains. SUV sales advanced 21 percent in January; pickups, 24 percent and crossovers, 30 percent. The big surprise was the minivan segment, which reported a sales increase of 59 percent for the month. Have soccer moms had a change of heart?
But as truck sales rise, so do gasoline prices. And now Middle East tensions are pushing prices up further. The average nationwide price for a gallon of regular today is $3.25, up from $3.15 last week and from $2.70 a year ago, according to gasoline price tracker gasbuddy.com.
In the last truck boom, the Detroit 3 virtually ignored cars and turned all their efforts toward trucks. Dealers had little or nothing to show shoppers when cars came back in style.
Forewarned is forearmed.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Toyota recalls another 2.17 million U.S. vehicles
DETROIT -- Toyota Motor Corp. said today it will recall 2.17 million Toyota and Lexus vehicles in the United States to inspect and repair accelerator pedals that may get trapped in floor mats or carpeting.
The automaker said more than half of the recalled vehicles -- 1.54 million units -- are being added to a giant 2009 recall to inspect and repair accelerator pedals that may get trapped in floor mats.
A 10-month investigation by NASA engineers determined that electronic flaws were not to blame for widespread consumer complaints of unintended acceleration in Toyota and Lexus models, the U.S. Department of Transportation said this month.
The Japanese automaker has now recalled 19.2 million Toyota and Lexus vehicles worldwide and more than 13.7 million in the United States to address safety problems since the fall of 2009.
Toyota said 20,000 2006 and early 2007 Lexus GS 300 and GS 350 all-wheel-drive sedans will be recalled to modify the shape of the plastic pad embedded in the driver's side floor carpet.
If the floor carpet around the accelerator pedal is not properly replaced after service, Toyota said there is a possibility that the plastic pad embedded into the floor carpet may interfere with operation of the accelerator pedal.
If this occurs, the accelerator pedal may become temporarily stuck in a partially depressed position rather than returning to the idle position.
Toyota said it had received two complaints about the issue. Owners of the GS 300 and GS 350 vehicles will be notified in early March, Toyota said.
Driver's floor carpet cover
The automaker also is recalling 372,000 2004 through 2006 and early 2007 Lexus RX 330, RX 350, and RX 400h units, and about 397,000 Toyota Highlander and Highlander HV vehicles sold from the 2004 through 2006 model years to replace the driver's side floor carpet cover and its two retention clips.
Toyota said if the forward retention clip used to secure the floor carpet cover -- located in front of the center console -- is not installed properly, the cover may lean toward the accelerator pedal and interfere with the accelerator pedal arm.
If this occurs, Toyota said the accelerator pedal may become temporarily stuck in a partially depressed position rather than returning to the idle position.
RX and Highlander owners will be notified soon how to inspect the condition or how to contact a dealer to perform the inspection. Toyota said owners will receive a second notification once the replacement covers are available.
Expanded recall
Toyota also is expanding a recall announced in November 2009 to address possible floor mat entrapment of the accelerator pedal.
The affected 1.5 million vehicles include about 603,000 Toyota 4Runner SUVs sold from the 2003 through 2009 model years; about 17,000 Lexus LX 570 SUVS sold from the 2008 through 2011 models years; and about 761,000 Toyota RAV4 vehicles sold from the 2006 through 2010 models years.
Toyota said owners of the 4Runner, LX 570, and RAV4 vehicles will be notified soon, and receive a second notification once the recall preparations are complete.
Toyota and Lexus dealers will perform the recalls at no charge, Toyota said.
PRESS RELEASE: Toyota Announces Two Voluntary Recalls and Amends Potential Floor Mat Interference Recall Announced in 2009
Driver's Side Floor Carpet Plastic Pad Modification on Lexus GS
Driver's Side Floor Carpet Cover Replacement on Lexus RX and Toyota Highlander
Models Added to the Potential Floor Mat Interference with Accelerator Pedal Recall
TORRANCE, Calif., [February 24], 2011 -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today announced that it will conduct a voluntary safety recall of approximately 20,000 2006 and early 2007 Model Year GS 300 and GS 350 All-Wheel Drive vehicles to modify the shape of the plastic pad embedded in the driver's side floor carpet. In the event that the floor carpet around the accelerator pedal is not properly replaced in the correct position after a service operation, there is a possibility that the plastic pad embedded into the floor carpet may interfere with the operation of the accelerator pedal. If this occurs, the accelerator pedal may become temporarily stuck in a partially depressed position rather than returning to the idle position.
Owners of the involved GS 300 and GS 350 All-Wheel Drive vehicles will receive a notification by first class mail beginning in early March 2011.
Toyota will also voluntarily recall approximately 372,000 2004 through 2006 and early 2007 RX 330, RX 350, and RX 400h vehicles, and approximately 397,000 2004 through 2006 Highlander and Highlander HV vehicles to replace the driver's side floor carpet cover and its two retention clips. If the forward retention clip used to secure the floor carpet cover, which is located in front of the center console, is not installed properly, the cover may lean toward the accelerator pedal and interfere with the accelerator pedal arm. If this occurs, the accelerator pedal may become temporarily stuck in a partially depressed position rather than returning to the idle position.
Owners of the involved RX and Highlander vehicles will receive an interim notification by first class mail beginning in the near future, explaining how to inspect for this condition or that they may contact their local dealer to perform the inspection.
Owners will receive a second notification once the replacement covers are available.
Separately, Toyota has amended its recall from November 2009, adding three models to address the potential for unsecured or incompatible floor mat entrapment of the accelerator pedal. The models added include:
• Approximately 603,000 2003 through 2009 4Runner
• Approximately 17,000 2008 through 2011 Lexus LX 570; and
• Approximately 761,000 2006 through 2010 RAV4
Owners of the involved 4Runner, LX 570, and RAV4 vehicles will receive an interim notification by first class mail beginning in the near future, informing them of the condition. Owners will receive a second notification once the recall preparations are complete.
Toyota and Lexus dealers will implement the newly announced and amended recall remedies at no charge to the vehicle owners.
Detailed information and answers to questions are available to customers at www.toyota.com/recall or www.lexus.com/recall and the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331 or Lexus Customer Satisfaction at 1-800-25 LEXUS or 1-800-255-3987.
The automaker said more than half of the recalled vehicles -- 1.54 million units -- are being added to a giant 2009 recall to inspect and repair accelerator pedals that may get trapped in floor mats.
A 10-month investigation by NASA engineers determined that electronic flaws were not to blame for widespread consumer complaints of unintended acceleration in Toyota and Lexus models, the U.S. Department of Transportation said this month.
The Japanese automaker has now recalled 19.2 million Toyota and Lexus vehicles worldwide and more than 13.7 million in the United States to address safety problems since the fall of 2009.
Toyota said 20,000 2006 and early 2007 Lexus GS 300 and GS 350 all-wheel-drive sedans will be recalled to modify the shape of the plastic pad embedded in the driver's side floor carpet.
If the floor carpet around the accelerator pedal is not properly replaced after service, Toyota said there is a possibility that the plastic pad embedded into the floor carpet may interfere with operation of the accelerator pedal.
If this occurs, the accelerator pedal may become temporarily stuck in a partially depressed position rather than returning to the idle position.
Toyota said it had received two complaints about the issue. Owners of the GS 300 and GS 350 vehicles will be notified in early March, Toyota said.
Driver's floor carpet cover
The automaker also is recalling 372,000 2004 through 2006 and early 2007 Lexus RX 330, RX 350, and RX 400h units, and about 397,000 Toyota Highlander and Highlander HV vehicles sold from the 2004 through 2006 model years to replace the driver's side floor carpet cover and its two retention clips.
Toyota said if the forward retention clip used to secure the floor carpet cover -- located in front of the center console -- is not installed properly, the cover may lean toward the accelerator pedal and interfere with the accelerator pedal arm.
If this occurs, Toyota said the accelerator pedal may become temporarily stuck in a partially depressed position rather than returning to the idle position.
RX and Highlander owners will be notified soon how to inspect the condition or how to contact a dealer to perform the inspection. Toyota said owners will receive a second notification once the replacement covers are available.
Expanded recall
Toyota also is expanding a recall announced in November 2009 to address possible floor mat entrapment of the accelerator pedal.
The affected 1.5 million vehicles include about 603,000 Toyota 4Runner SUVs sold from the 2003 through 2009 model years; about 17,000 Lexus LX 570 SUVS sold from the 2008 through 2011 models years; and about 761,000 Toyota RAV4 vehicles sold from the 2006 through 2010 models years.
Toyota said owners of the 4Runner, LX 570, and RAV4 vehicles will be notified soon, and receive a second notification once the recall preparations are complete.
Toyota and Lexus dealers will perform the recalls at no charge, Toyota said.
PRESS RELEASE: Toyota Announces Two Voluntary Recalls and Amends Potential Floor Mat Interference Recall Announced in 2009
Driver's Side Floor Carpet Plastic Pad Modification on Lexus GS
Driver's Side Floor Carpet Cover Replacement on Lexus RX and Toyota Highlander
Models Added to the Potential Floor Mat Interference with Accelerator Pedal Recall
TORRANCE, Calif., [February 24], 2011 -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today announced that it will conduct a voluntary safety recall of approximately 20,000 2006 and early 2007 Model Year GS 300 and GS 350 All-Wheel Drive vehicles to modify the shape of the plastic pad embedded in the driver's side floor carpet. In the event that the floor carpet around the accelerator pedal is not properly replaced in the correct position after a service operation, there is a possibility that the plastic pad embedded into the floor carpet may interfere with the operation of the accelerator pedal. If this occurs, the accelerator pedal may become temporarily stuck in a partially depressed position rather than returning to the idle position.
Owners of the involved GS 300 and GS 350 All-Wheel Drive vehicles will receive a notification by first class mail beginning in early March 2011.
Toyota will also voluntarily recall approximately 372,000 2004 through 2006 and early 2007 RX 330, RX 350, and RX 400h vehicles, and approximately 397,000 2004 through 2006 Highlander and Highlander HV vehicles to replace the driver's side floor carpet cover and its two retention clips. If the forward retention clip used to secure the floor carpet cover, which is located in front of the center console, is not installed properly, the cover may lean toward the accelerator pedal and interfere with the accelerator pedal arm. If this occurs, the accelerator pedal may become temporarily stuck in a partially depressed position rather than returning to the idle position.
Owners of the involved RX and Highlander vehicles will receive an interim notification by first class mail beginning in the near future, explaining how to inspect for this condition or that they may contact their local dealer to perform the inspection.
Owners will receive a second notification once the replacement covers are available.
Separately, Toyota has amended its recall from November 2009, adding three models to address the potential for unsecured or incompatible floor mat entrapment of the accelerator pedal. The models added include:
• Approximately 603,000 2003 through 2009 4Runner
• Approximately 17,000 2008 through 2011 Lexus LX 570; and
• Approximately 761,000 2006 through 2010 RAV4
Owners of the involved 4Runner, LX 570, and RAV4 vehicles will receive an interim notification by first class mail beginning in the near future, informing them of the condition. Owners will receive a second notification once the recall preparations are complete.
Toyota and Lexus dealers will implement the newly announced and amended recall remedies at no charge to the vehicle owners.
Detailed information and answers to questions are available to customers at www.toyota.com/recall or www.lexus.com/recall and the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331 or Lexus Customer Satisfaction at 1-800-25 LEXUS or 1-800-255-3987.
Dealers brace for rising gasoline prices
Many U.S. auto dealers expect gasoline prices to keep rising in the wake of political turmoil in the Mideast. They say they will adjust their product mix accordingly -- aiming to stock more small cars and fuel-efficient crossovers.
The average national gasoline price is about $3.19 per gallon, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. That's about 54 cents higher than a year ago. With political unrest spreading in the Middle East from Egypt to oil-rich Libya, some pundits expect gasoline prices to soar.
In commodities trading today, the price of West Texas Intermediate crude oil rose 13 percent to $97.97 a barrel.
Many auto dealers are planning for gasoline prices to keep rising.
"We'll change the mix of products that we offer," John Pitre, general manager of Motor City Auto Center in Bakersfield, Calif., said today. He sells GMC, Buick and Lexus vehicles. "Hybrid demand has been pretty weak the last couple of years, so you can count on that coming back to life."
Pitre's inventory lacks GMC's more fuel-efficient products such as the Terrain and Acadia crossovers and diesel pickups. He plans to order more.
Small car segment ascendant
The U.S. small car segment comprised about 14 percent of U.S. auto sales in 2004, said George Pipas, Ford Motor Co.'s chief sales analyst. By 2009, it had risen to 21 percent. It slipped to 19 percent last year. But since late fall and into January, the small car segment has regained two points to 21 percent of industry sales. That's due mostly to gasoline prices creeping up, Pipas said.
"So far in February [the segment] is up again," he said. "Suffice it to say that it was up more than a point over February of last year really early in the month."
Slowly rising gasoline prices have affected used-vehicle prices, said Jonathan Banks, senior director of editorial and data services at NADA Used Car Guide.
He said changes in consumer behavior typically show up in the used-car market before the new-car market because used-car buyers are more sensitive to changes in gasoline prices.
Used trucks' prices down
Banks' data indicate that used-truck prices generally are falling while used-car prices inch higher.
"Trucks have not been in a free fall, like we saw in 2008, and we don't expect them to because supply is so tight. But you can see that the trend between cars and trucks is significantly different," he said.
Dealer Pete Adcock, president of FSK Lincoln-Mercury Inc. in Frederick, Md., said he can't find a 1- to 2-year-old Lincoln Navigator and Cadillac Escalade for a reasonable price because automakers reeled in production in 2008 when gasoline prices spiked then. He worries they'll have a knee-jerk reaction this time and he'll struggle to get newer used pickups and SUVs to sell.
Bring on the sales
David Brady, an owner of two Hyundai dealerships and one Kia store in suburban Huntsville, Ala., started paying attention to rising gasoline prices in November. He said gasoline in his area is now about $3.09 a gallon, up from roughly $2.25 a gallon about a year ago.
In January, Brady ran 60-second radio spots urging customers to come in and trade their large SUVs for smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles.
On Tuesday, he sold two new Kia Souls and a new Rio to customers who traded in 2004 and 2006 Chevrolet Tahoe SUVs and a 2001 F-150 pickup.
He said 90 percent of the vehicles he is selling are fuel-efficient nameplates such as Kia Rios, Fortes and Souls.
He said February has been a great sales month and he attributes it to the price of gasoline. "The biggest problem I'm going to have is keeping the right inventory mix," he said.
No panic yet
Mitchell Dale, owner of McRee Ford in Dickinson, Texas, said prices for large SUVs and pickups have softened in the past two weeks.
In general, he said, there is increased discussion about gasoline prices, but customers still have a wait-and-see attitude.
"We've seen some people do trade-ins, but not the panic sell of 2008," Dale said.
Mike Sullivan, who owns eight dealerships in the Los Angeles area, said he hasn't seen a mass exodus from SUVs and pickups yet.
"There's no question in my mind that we are going to see it," he said.
Sullivan owns Toyota, Lexus, Scion, Audi, Volkswagen and Porsche dealerships and is opening a Fisker store. He said elevated gasoline prices will exacerbate the trend of moving to smaller, more fuel-efficient cars.
'Threshold has moved'
"The threshold has moved. Four dollars used to be the panic mode and that's not going to motivate people in and of itself," Sullivan said. "I don't think $3.90 or $4.05 is going to make people panic."
Mike Connolly, sales manager at Planet Chrysler Jeep Dodge in suburban Boston, said customers want to keep their bigger vehicles, but shop newer versions of those models that often earn higher fuel economy.
Connolly said dramatic consumer behavior will begin when it starts to cost more than $100 to fill the tank.
"What happened back in the summer of 2008 when prices were through the roof, it's nothing like that now," he said. "People want to get better gas mileage, but it's not a panic."
The average national gasoline price is about $3.19 per gallon, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. That's about 54 cents higher than a year ago. With political unrest spreading in the Middle East from Egypt to oil-rich Libya, some pundits expect gasoline prices to soar.
In commodities trading today, the price of West Texas Intermediate crude oil rose 13 percent to $97.97 a barrel.
Many auto dealers are planning for gasoline prices to keep rising.
"We'll change the mix of products that we offer," John Pitre, general manager of Motor City Auto Center in Bakersfield, Calif., said today. He sells GMC, Buick and Lexus vehicles. "Hybrid demand has been pretty weak the last couple of years, so you can count on that coming back to life."
Pitre's inventory lacks GMC's more fuel-efficient products such as the Terrain and Acadia crossovers and diesel pickups. He plans to order more.
Small car segment ascendant
The U.S. small car segment comprised about 14 percent of U.S. auto sales in 2004, said George Pipas, Ford Motor Co.'s chief sales analyst. By 2009, it had risen to 21 percent. It slipped to 19 percent last year. But since late fall and into January, the small car segment has regained two points to 21 percent of industry sales. That's due mostly to gasoline prices creeping up, Pipas said.
"So far in February [the segment] is up again," he said. "Suffice it to say that it was up more than a point over February of last year really early in the month."
Slowly rising gasoline prices have affected used-vehicle prices, said Jonathan Banks, senior director of editorial and data services at NADA Used Car Guide.
He said changes in consumer behavior typically show up in the used-car market before the new-car market because used-car buyers are more sensitive to changes in gasoline prices.
Used trucks' prices down
Banks' data indicate that used-truck prices generally are falling while used-car prices inch higher.
"Trucks have not been in a free fall, like we saw in 2008, and we don't expect them to because supply is so tight. But you can see that the trend between cars and trucks is significantly different," he said.
Dealer Pete Adcock, president of FSK Lincoln-Mercury Inc. in Frederick, Md., said he can't find a 1- to 2-year-old Lincoln Navigator and Cadillac Escalade for a reasonable price because automakers reeled in production in 2008 when gasoline prices spiked then. He worries they'll have a knee-jerk reaction this time and he'll struggle to get newer used pickups and SUVs to sell.
Bring on the sales
David Brady, an owner of two Hyundai dealerships and one Kia store in suburban Huntsville, Ala., started paying attention to rising gasoline prices in November. He said gasoline in his area is now about $3.09 a gallon, up from roughly $2.25 a gallon about a year ago.
In January, Brady ran 60-second radio spots urging customers to come in and trade their large SUVs for smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles.
On Tuesday, he sold two new Kia Souls and a new Rio to customers who traded in 2004 and 2006 Chevrolet Tahoe SUVs and a 2001 F-150 pickup.
He said 90 percent of the vehicles he is selling are fuel-efficient nameplates such as Kia Rios, Fortes and Souls.
He said February has been a great sales month and he attributes it to the price of gasoline. "The biggest problem I'm going to have is keeping the right inventory mix," he said.
No panic yet
Mitchell Dale, owner of McRee Ford in Dickinson, Texas, said prices for large SUVs and pickups have softened in the past two weeks.
In general, he said, there is increased discussion about gasoline prices, but customers still have a wait-and-see attitude.
"We've seen some people do trade-ins, but not the panic sell of 2008," Dale said.
Mike Sullivan, who owns eight dealerships in the Los Angeles area, said he hasn't seen a mass exodus from SUVs and pickups yet.
"There's no question in my mind that we are going to see it," he said.
Sullivan owns Toyota, Lexus, Scion, Audi, Volkswagen and Porsche dealerships and is opening a Fisker store. He said elevated gasoline prices will exacerbate the trend of moving to smaller, more fuel-efficient cars.
'Threshold has moved'
"The threshold has moved. Four dollars used to be the panic mode and that's not going to motivate people in and of itself," Sullivan said. "I don't think $3.90 or $4.05 is going to make people panic."
Mike Connolly, sales manager at Planet Chrysler Jeep Dodge in suburban Boston, said customers want to keep their bigger vehicles, but shop newer versions of those models that often earn higher fuel economy.
Connolly said dramatic consumer behavior will begin when it starts to cost more than $100 to fill the tank.
"What happened back in the summer of 2008 when prices were through the roof, it's nothing like that now," he said. "People want to get better gas mileage, but it's not a panic."
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Nader urges Fiat to recall 1993-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokees
Consumer activist Ralph Nader has called on Fiat to recall 1993-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokees made by Chrysler because of what he calls their vulnerability to fiery rear-end crashes.
U.S. safety regulators have been conducting an investigation and considering a recall of 3 million Grand Cherokees.
Nader said today that the Grand Cherokee from these years “is a modern-day Pinto for soccer moms” because the fuel tank is behind the rear axle below the rear bumper.
“Now that Fiat has purchased Chrysler, it has the moral obligation to remedy the deadly fuel tank design in the Jeep Grand Cherokee before more innocent victims are burned today, not only in the United States, but also in Europe,” Nader said in a speech in Milan after receiving an award from Quattroruote auto magazine.
In addition, the 1993-98 Grand Cherokees are flawed because the filler hose goes through the frame rail and is pulled out of the fuel tank, he said.
Case closed?
Chrysler said today that the fuel tanks on the Grand Cherokees aren't defective and do not pose an unreasonable risk.
The automaker conducted a study that compared 21,000 rear impacts in the 1993-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokees with similar models from other companies found that fires are no more common in Grand Cherokees than in other vehicles, said Chrysler spokesman Michael Palese.
"Rear impacts resulting in a fire are extremely rare," Palese said. "Chrysler believes this investigation should be closed."
In August, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration began an investigation after its preliminary review found that the fuel tank may have been linked to 22 crashes and 14 deaths.
NHTSA said at the time that its preliminary review did not find the Grand Cherokee has a disproportionate number of fire-related accidents compared with similar models of other automakers.
The Nader-founded Center for Auto Safety, whose research spurred the NHTSA probe, has come up with different findings.
It said the fuel tank has exploded into flames in 44 crashes and rollovers causing 64 deaths -- twice as many fire-related accidents and four times as many deaths identified by regulators.
When DaimlerChrysler owned the Jeep brand, it moved and shielded the fuel tank, starting with 2005 models.
Fiat acquired control of Chrysler in 2009 as part of a deal arranged by the Obama administration after Chrysler had filed for bankruptcy reorganization. You can reach Neil Roland at nroland@crain.com.
U.S. safety regulators have been conducting an investigation and considering a recall of 3 million Grand Cherokees.
Nader said today that the Grand Cherokee from these years “is a modern-day Pinto for soccer moms” because the fuel tank is behind the rear axle below the rear bumper.
“Now that Fiat has purchased Chrysler, it has the moral obligation to remedy the deadly fuel tank design in the Jeep Grand Cherokee before more innocent victims are burned today, not only in the United States, but also in Europe,” Nader said in a speech in Milan after receiving an award from Quattroruote auto magazine.
In addition, the 1993-98 Grand Cherokees are flawed because the filler hose goes through the frame rail and is pulled out of the fuel tank, he said.
Case closed?
Chrysler said today that the fuel tanks on the Grand Cherokees aren't defective and do not pose an unreasonable risk.
The automaker conducted a study that compared 21,000 rear impacts in the 1993-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokees with similar models from other companies found that fires are no more common in Grand Cherokees than in other vehicles, said Chrysler spokesman Michael Palese.
"Rear impacts resulting in a fire are extremely rare," Palese said. "Chrysler believes this investigation should be closed."
In August, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration began an investigation after its preliminary review found that the fuel tank may have been linked to 22 crashes and 14 deaths.
NHTSA said at the time that its preliminary review did not find the Grand Cherokee has a disproportionate number of fire-related accidents compared with similar models of other automakers.
The Nader-founded Center for Auto Safety, whose research spurred the NHTSA probe, has come up with different findings.
It said the fuel tank has exploded into flames in 44 crashes and rollovers causing 64 deaths -- twice as many fire-related accidents and four times as many deaths identified by regulators.
When DaimlerChrysler owned the Jeep brand, it moved and shielded the fuel tank, starting with 2005 models.
Fiat acquired control of Chrysler in 2009 as part of a deal arranged by the Obama administration after Chrysler had filed for bankruptcy reorganization. You can reach Neil Roland at nroland@crain.com.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Sluggish Chevy Truck
I have a 93 Chevy C1500 pickup automatic with 4.3 -Z (non Vortec) It has 68,000 miles. It is very sluggish when accelerating, and shifts hard from one gear to another. It doesn’t run rough (neither cold nor hot) and does not surge, backfire or “ping”. No blue, white or black smoke from the exhaust. The lock-up converter kicks in at about 50 mph., but the truck seems to struggle more when I try to keep a constant speed between 40 and 45 mph either before the lock-up kicks in or when I drop it back to 40-45 after locking up. I can get it to run at 65-70 mph on the highway but I have to keep good pressure on the pedal as it seems to be working hard at that speed. When I disconnect the EGR valve and plug the vacuum line from the solenoid it runs perfectly and shifts very smoothly, just like a new truck, but the SES comes on after driving a few miles at 55+ mph. It goes out when idling for a few minutes at a red light.
I have replaced the plugs, distr. cap, rotor, ignition coil, O2 sensor, spark plug wires, gas filter, cat converter (whole new exhaust system).
I enjoy tinkering with minor mechanical repairs, but what should I try first? The EGR?… EGR solenoid?… MAP sensor?… Any suggestions, other that bringing it to a shop for a diagnostic check? Thanks for your advice… anyone?
Response:
Well, the first thing I would do is check for any codes which can be done free for the do it yourselfer. Here is how: http://www.freeautomechanic.com/diagnostictroblecodes5.html
Once you have done that, post the codes and we can dig further.
Update:
OK… When the EGR is disconnected and the EGR vac solenoid tube plugged, the truck runs perfectly, but the SES light comes on. It gives me code 32. No surprise as the EGR is disconnected!
When the EGR is connected, the truck is very sluggish and the SES light does NOT come on. I checked if there were any OBD codes anyways. No codes. Go figure!
I have replaced the plugs, distr. cap, rotor, ignition coil, O2 sensor, spark plug wires, gas filter, cat converter (whole new exhaust system).
I enjoy tinkering with minor mechanical repairs, but what should I try first? The EGR?… EGR solenoid?… MAP sensor?… Any suggestions, other that bringing it to a shop for a diagnostic check? Thanks for your advice… anyone?
Response:
Well, the first thing I would do is check for any codes which can be done free for the do it yourselfer. Here is how: http://www.freeautomechanic.com/diagnostictroblecodes5.html
Once you have done that, post the codes and we can dig further.
Update:
OK… When the EGR is disconnected and the EGR vac solenoid tube plugged, the truck runs perfectly, but the SES light comes on. It gives me code 32. No surprise as the EGR is disconnected!
When the EGR is connected, the truck is very sluggish and the SES light does NOT come on. I checked if there were any OBD codes anyways. No codes. Go figure!
Friday, February 11, 2011
To Create Biodiesel Or To Procure Biodiesel This is The Only Question
You can purchase biofuel to run in any diesel engine without adjustments or conversion of the fuel system. There are thousands of biodiesel fill up stations in Europe and the USA and their numbers increase every year. Some countries even mix their petroleum diesel fuels with a small percentage of biodiesel.
So why in the world would you ever think about making your own biodiesel fuel?
Quite frankly, it’s much cheaper! If you want to start using renewable bio-fuels to run your diesel engine automobiles currently you have choices.
By modifying your diesel powered vehicle you could use virgin vegetable oils for fuel like Rudolf Diesel or use a blend of vegetable oils and petroleum or kerosene as fuel. But many choose waste oils and even animal fats to use for bio-diesel production. This is a green and eco-friendly alternative fuel.
Biodiesel has attained global recognition in the last 4 years, its still hard to buy commercially and often times the same price as traditional diesel because of transportation cost and government taxation.
If you cannot find biofuel fuel in your community it may be your time to find out how simple it is to produce and start your own biodiesel production plant for your home or business vehicles. The cost benefits & fuel independence will make you feel like the oil shiek in your community.
The books like the “The Down and Dirty Guide to Biodiesel Recipes” help you get started. Biodiesel production is a risk-free process, but like most things you must be aware of the potential hazards and take safety precautions. The 3 principal ingredients are Lye, methanol and vegetable oil.
If you would like to start making biodiesel here are some tips:
- Buy a entry level biodiesel processor from a trustworthy company
- Make sure the processor you decide on has an explosion proof pump, basically this is a non-sparking pump
- Make sure you invest a processor that incorporates a dry wash system to clean your biodiesel not water. This will create a better quality fuel
- Start with fresh quality vegetable oil.
- Start by performing lots of tests with small test amounts of biodiesel and a portion of each ingredient
- Take your time and energy and put time in your training your biofuel will turn out better and you will save time and your money
- Once you understand it then begin processing used WVO which will give you further savings especially if you find it for free.
You can be energy self-sufficient by learning How To Make Biodiesel At Home easily and successfully in your own backyard.
Get Your “FREE” Biodiesel Downloadable biodiesel book. Or stop by 70CentsaGallon’s site to find out all about production of biodiesel and what biodiesel can do for you.. Unique version for reprint here: To Create Biodiesel Or To Procure Biodiesel This is The Only Question.
So why in the world would you ever think about making your own biodiesel fuel?
Quite frankly, it’s much cheaper! If you want to start using renewable bio-fuels to run your diesel engine automobiles currently you have choices.
By modifying your diesel powered vehicle you could use virgin vegetable oils for fuel like Rudolf Diesel or use a blend of vegetable oils and petroleum or kerosene as fuel. But many choose waste oils and even animal fats to use for bio-diesel production. This is a green and eco-friendly alternative fuel.
Biodiesel has attained global recognition in the last 4 years, its still hard to buy commercially and often times the same price as traditional diesel because of transportation cost and government taxation.
If you cannot find biofuel fuel in your community it may be your time to find out how simple it is to produce and start your own biodiesel production plant for your home or business vehicles. The cost benefits & fuel independence will make you feel like the oil shiek in your community.
The books like the “The Down and Dirty Guide to Biodiesel Recipes” help you get started. Biodiesel production is a risk-free process, but like most things you must be aware of the potential hazards and take safety precautions. The 3 principal ingredients are Lye, methanol and vegetable oil.
If you would like to start making biodiesel here are some tips:
- Buy a entry level biodiesel processor from a trustworthy company
- Make sure the processor you decide on has an explosion proof pump, basically this is a non-sparking pump
- Make sure you invest a processor that incorporates a dry wash system to clean your biodiesel not water. This will create a better quality fuel
- Start with fresh quality vegetable oil.
- Start by performing lots of tests with small test amounts of biodiesel and a portion of each ingredient
- Take your time and energy and put time in your training your biofuel will turn out better and you will save time and your money
- Once you understand it then begin processing used WVO which will give you further savings especially if you find it for free.
You can be energy self-sufficient by learning How To Make Biodiesel At Home easily and successfully in your own backyard.
Get Your “FREE” Biodiesel Downloadable biodiesel book. Or stop by 70CentsaGallon’s site to find out all about production of biodiesel and what biodiesel can do for you.. Unique version for reprint here: To Create Biodiesel Or To Procure Biodiesel This is The Only Question.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Turn Signal blinkers are dying...
I have a question I am hoping someone can help me with I have 94 buick regal and am looking for where on the steering wheel I might find the blinker module, my blinkers are almost dead and (no it is not a fuse)we tried we believe it the module but,have no idea where it is located.Can ANYONE help me please....
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
1999 Chevy Tahoe door latch
1999 Chevy Tahoe with cargo doors. The right door has a latch which goes over the left door. Somehow the latch got bumped and is in the closed position. Neither the auto door opener nor the key will let the latch come open. Any help?
Response:
1)Try to hold the handle open and pop the latch in the door with a screwdriver its happened to me once or twice
2)You may have to replace the latch I am guessing that it is jammed.
3)you carefully remove the lower panel by popping out the plastic tabs, usually done by inserting screwdriver between panel and door and prying. After removing the lower panel, peel back the plastic covering the metal door, and check the metal tab on the latch mechanism. If a bunch of dirt and needles are on the top of the door on the top weather stripping, I have seen this collection of dirt/debris prevent a functional latch mechanism from allowing the door to open.
Response:
1)Try to hold the handle open and pop the latch in the door with a screwdriver its happened to me once or twice
2)You may have to replace the latch I am guessing that it is jammed.
3)you carefully remove the lower panel by popping out the plastic tabs, usually done by inserting screwdriver between panel and door and prying. After removing the lower panel, peel back the plastic covering the metal door, and check the metal tab on the latch mechanism. If a bunch of dirt and needles are on the top of the door on the top weather stripping, I have seen this collection of dirt/debris prevent a functional latch mechanism from allowing the door to open.
Monday, February 7, 2011
Stabenow reintroduces bill for $7,500 point-of-purchase rebate on EVs
DETROIT -- U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow today reintroduced a bill that would provide a $7,500 rebate to buyers of plug-in electric vehicles at the point of purchase.
Current EV buyers get the $7,500 incentive when they file their taxes, forcing them to wait as long as a year for the tax credit.
Stabenow, D-Mich., also wants tax credits for investments in charging stations for businesses that buy medium- and heavy-duty hybrid trucks. Depending on the truck's size, the credit could be worth between $15,000 and $100,000.
The proposal includes more funding to develop the U.S. advanced battery industry.
The Charging America Forward Act was introduced last August, but never passed into law.
Stabenow's revival of the proposal comes about two weeks after two other Michigan congressmen proposed expanding the number of electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids eligible for the federal tax credit.
On Jan. 26, U.S. Rep. Sander Levin, D-Mich., proposed legislation in the House and on Jan. 31 his brother, U.S. Sen. Carl Levin, D-Mich., introduced a similar bill in the Senate that would increase the per-manufacturer cap on the $7,500 tax credit from 200,000 vehicles to 500,000.
The rebate was started as part of the Recovery Act of February 2009. It is available on five vehicles -- the Chevrolet Volt, the Tesla Roadster, the Nissan Leaf, the CODA sedan and the Wheego LiFe. It is phased out after a manufacturer sells 200,000 units.
General Motors Co. has said the cap could hinder future sales of the Chevrolet Volt, which sells for $41,000, with delivery, before the credit.
“We are pleased to see Senator Stabenow's legislation that integrates all of the components necessary for successful acceleration of electric vehicles in the marketplace,” GM spokesman Greg Martin said in a statement.
“We look forward to working with Congress on legislation that leads to widespread adoption of electric vehicles."
President Barack Obama has pledged to expand r&d in batteries and electric drivetrain technology, including a 30 percent increase in federal grants.
“With more research and incentives, we can break our dependence on oil with biofuels, and become the first country to have a million electric vehicles on the road by 2015,” Obama said Jan. 25 in his State of the Union address.
The administration also is extending initiatives to improve electric vehicle infrastructure in U.S. cities. As many as 30 communities across the country would be able to receive grants of up to $10 million each to install public charging stations, electrified parking space access and fleet conversions
Current EV buyers get the $7,500 incentive when they file their taxes, forcing them to wait as long as a year for the tax credit.
Stabenow, D-Mich., also wants tax credits for investments in charging stations for businesses that buy medium- and heavy-duty hybrid trucks. Depending on the truck's size, the credit could be worth between $15,000 and $100,000.
The proposal includes more funding to develop the U.S. advanced battery industry.
The Charging America Forward Act was introduced last August, but never passed into law.
Stabenow's revival of the proposal comes about two weeks after two other Michigan congressmen proposed expanding the number of electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids eligible for the federal tax credit.
On Jan. 26, U.S. Rep. Sander Levin, D-Mich., proposed legislation in the House and on Jan. 31 his brother, U.S. Sen. Carl Levin, D-Mich., introduced a similar bill in the Senate that would increase the per-manufacturer cap on the $7,500 tax credit from 200,000 vehicles to 500,000.
The rebate was started as part of the Recovery Act of February 2009. It is available on five vehicles -- the Chevrolet Volt, the Tesla Roadster, the Nissan Leaf, the CODA sedan and the Wheego LiFe. It is phased out after a manufacturer sells 200,000 units.
General Motors Co. has said the cap could hinder future sales of the Chevrolet Volt, which sells for $41,000, with delivery, before the credit.
“We are pleased to see Senator Stabenow's legislation that integrates all of the components necessary for successful acceleration of electric vehicles in the marketplace,” GM spokesman Greg Martin said in a statement.
“We look forward to working with Congress on legislation that leads to widespread adoption of electric vehicles."
President Barack Obama has pledged to expand r&d in batteries and electric drivetrain technology, including a 30 percent increase in federal grants.
“With more research and incentives, we can break our dependence on oil with biofuels, and become the first country to have a million electric vehicles on the road by 2015,” Obama said Jan. 25 in his State of the Union address.
The administration also is extending initiatives to improve electric vehicle infrastructure in U.S. cities. As many as 30 communities across the country would be able to receive grants of up to $10 million each to install public charging stations, electrified parking space access and fleet conversions
Saturday, February 5, 2011
oldsmobile directional switch not working
I have a 1996 olds cutlas supreme. The directional signals work sometime, and when it does work only the driver's side works. Also, on the dash, only the driver side flash works. I checked the bulbs, and they are all good. A mechanic said that the flash switch was bad, and he had to get a new or used column. I was told by autozone, that only the switch needs to be replaced. Can anyone advise me on what and how to do it. Is this a job for a novice like me?
All advice would be appreciated.
Response:
-- Will your Center High-Mount Stop Light (CHMSL) illuminate when you depress the brake pedal, but the lower/outer lights will not?
-- Do you have to hold the signal lever in a certain spot to get the turn signals to flash?
-- Do you have to hold the signal lever in a certain spot to get the lower/outer brake lights to illuminate?
-- Will the signals work in one direction, but not the other?
If you answered yes to any of the preceeding questions, your turn signal switch is likely malfunctioning.
**One more question before we continue: Is the turn signal lever not "cancelling" (returning to the "off" position) after you make a turn? If this is the case, you have a broken "cancelling spring." Please see the accompanying section at the bottom of the page for replacement instructions.
Before you begin disassembly of your steering column, verify the turn signal flasher is not malfunctioning. If your brake lights work fine, but not the signals (either direction,) then it's likely the flasher is burnt out. The flasher itself is located underneath the dash near where the steering column passes through the firewall:
(Thanks to "digitaloutsider" for the above pic!)
Throughout this document you'll see me refer to the steering wheel radio controls as "RSWC." That's GM-Speak for "Redundant Steering Wheel Controls."
Okay, are you ready to sweat a little? This task is not for the mechanically inept, so back out now if you aren't sure you're up to the task.
Tools required for disassembly and removal:
Standard socket set (3/8" drive)
#30 TORX bit (not absolutely necessary, a hex-head will work if you don't have a TORX set)
Steering wheel puller:
Snap ring pliers:
Lockplate compressor:
2 small flat blade screwdrivers:
Notice the box carries both the AC Delco part #, and the GM part #.
Here's a pic of the new switch:
Allright, still with me? Let's begin.
1. Park the car with the steering wheel centered and the wheels straight ahead.
2. Locate and remove the "Airbag" or "SRS" fuse in the passenger side fusebox. There is more than one fuse for the airbag system, so I like to start the car after step 2 to verify the Airbag light in the dash remains lit. This way you know for sure that you pulled the correct fuse. On the Regal, it's fuse #21, highlighted below:
3. Remove the Negative battery cable.
4. Remove the trim panels underneath the driver's side of the dashboard.
5. Locate the yellow "CPA" connector for the airbag underneath the dash to the right of the steering column and disconnect. Remove the blue (or green) pin from the center of the connector to allow for the tab to be depressed.
6. Use the #30 TORX bit (or the corresponding Hex bit) to loosen the 2 bolts that secure the airbag to the steering wheel, located on the back of the wheel. The bolts will stay inside of the wheel. You will have to turn the wheel to the left to get to the left hand bolt.
7. Lift the airbag module away from the steering wheel.
8. Using the same procedure as described in step 5, disconnect the airbag wiring. Also disconnect the horn wire and RSWC connector (if available.) The horn is disconnected by following the red wire down to the white plastic "cylinder" sticking up from the column. Press in on the cylinder and rotate it counter-clockwise, then it should pop out (it's spring loaded.) On the Regal, there is a ground wire that "pins" inside of one one of the bolt holes for the steering wheel puller. Be sure to remove it as well. The Grand Prix and Lumina airbags will have a large piece of metal that acts as a spring that rests against the steering shaft (that is how the horn gets "grounded.")
9. Set the airbag aside. Carry it with the driver's side facing away from you. Set it down on a workbench facing up.
10. Point the wheels straight ahead once again.
You should now see the following:
11. Remove the steering wheel nut.
12. Install the steering wheel puller and remove the steering wheel.
You should now see this:
What you see exposed now is the airbag clockspring. The wire with the yellow connector is for the airbag, the one with the flat, black connector (on the bottom with the blue on the top) is for the RSWC.
13. Remove the snap ring that retains the clockspring.
14. Lift the clockspring off of the steering shaft and let it hang.
*WARNING* Do not allow the yellow inner ring of the clockspring to rotate, otherwise you will have to reset it later. Draw a mark across the black and yellow rings for alignment purposes, and place a piece of tape across the rings to prevent them from turning...
15. Remove the "wave" washer.
16. Remove the plastic cover on the left side exposing the washer and dimmer switches.
17. Pull the multifunction stalk straight out and disconnect the cruise control wiring from the washer switch.
You will now see the following:
The part that's exposed now is the Lock Plate. It has a spring pressing up against the back of it, and it is held in place by a retaining clip. You will need to use the lock plate compressor tool to press down on the lock plate to take tension off the spring in order to remove the retaining clip.
18. Use the lock plate compressor to depress the lock plate. The center of the tool threads on to the steering shaft, and the 2 "forks" press down on the lock plate.
Here's a pic of the Lock Plate Compressor tool installed on the column and pressing down on the lock plate:
19. Use the 2 small screwdrivers to remove the lock plate retaining clip. Have patience with this step, 'cause it takes a while to work the clip loose. If you bend the clip, no worries, you can easily bend it back into shape.
20. Remove the lock plate compressor.
21. Lift off the lock plate, paying attention to where you have it aligned. You will need to align it in the same position when reassembling the column. (Look 3 pictures up to see how it should be aligned.)
22. Carefully remove the hazzard flasher knob from the top of the column.
23. Remove the cancelling cam and spring.
You will now see this:
24. Remove the 2 screws that hold the dimmer switch to the signal switch.
25. Remove the 3 screws retaining the signal switch in place. You will have to move the switch into the "right signal on" position to remove the final screw.
26. Locate the bulkhead connector underneath the dash to the right of the steering column, loosen the large (red in the picture) bolt in the center of the connector and pull the connector straight out it. The bolt has an 8mm head, BTW.
Here's an overview of what you'll see under the dash:
Here's a pic of the Bulkhead up close with the signal switch harness hilighted (actually it's the harness on top, not the lower one pointed to in the pic.)
27. The signal switch harness piggybacks to the ignition switch harness. With the Bulkhead connector unbolted and removed, remove the blue retaining tabs and slide the signal switch harness *backwards* to remove it. It only slides in one direction, BTW. You may need to wedge a tiny screwdriver in the center of the signal switch harness to get it to disengage from the bulkhead.
28. If you have RSWC, disconnect the RSWC connector from the signal switch (there's a pigtail harness running from the signal switch to the connector)
29. Feed the wires up the column. You will have to first angle the harness so it will slip into the channel of the column. Pull on the signal switch to aid in feeding the wires up.
30. Installation is the reverse of removal.
31. When you get to point of reinstalling the clockspring, align the tab at the top centered with the notches near 12 O'Clock on the column.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Here's how you replace a broken cancelling spring:
Follow the disassembly instructions above from Step 1 through Step 23
Here's what the signal switch looks like with one of the cancelling springs broken:
The springs are easily removed with a needle-nose pliers. They are installed the same way they came out.
Here's a pic of the switch with the new springs installed:
Reassembly is the reverse of removal.
Before you install the clockspring, go to Step 31.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Just in case anybody was wondering how the column is assembled, here's a diagram I found on the GMPartsDirect website:
All advice would be appreciated.
Response:
-- Will your Center High-Mount Stop Light (CHMSL) illuminate when you depress the brake pedal, but the lower/outer lights will not?
-- Do you have to hold the signal lever in a certain spot to get the turn signals to flash?
-- Do you have to hold the signal lever in a certain spot to get the lower/outer brake lights to illuminate?
-- Will the signals work in one direction, but not the other?
If you answered yes to any of the preceeding questions, your turn signal switch is likely malfunctioning.
**One more question before we continue: Is the turn signal lever not "cancelling" (returning to the "off" position) after you make a turn? If this is the case, you have a broken "cancelling spring." Please see the accompanying section at the bottom of the page for replacement instructions.
Before you begin disassembly of your steering column, verify the turn signal flasher is not malfunctioning. If your brake lights work fine, but not the signals (either direction,) then it's likely the flasher is burnt out. The flasher itself is located underneath the dash near where the steering column passes through the firewall:
(Thanks to "digitaloutsider" for the above pic!)
Throughout this document you'll see me refer to the steering wheel radio controls as "RSWC." That's GM-Speak for "Redundant Steering Wheel Controls."
Okay, are you ready to sweat a little? This task is not for the mechanically inept, so back out now if you aren't sure you're up to the task.
Tools required for disassembly and removal:
Standard socket set (3/8" drive)
#30 TORX bit (not absolutely necessary, a hex-head will work if you don't have a TORX set)
Steering wheel puller:
Snap ring pliers:
Lockplate compressor:
2 small flat blade screwdrivers:
Notice the box carries both the AC Delco part #, and the GM part #.
Here's a pic of the new switch:
Allright, still with me? Let's begin.
1. Park the car with the steering wheel centered and the wheels straight ahead.
2. Locate and remove the "Airbag" or "SRS" fuse in the passenger side fusebox. There is more than one fuse for the airbag system, so I like to start the car after step 2 to verify the Airbag light in the dash remains lit. This way you know for sure that you pulled the correct fuse. On the Regal, it's fuse #21, highlighted below:
3. Remove the Negative battery cable.
4. Remove the trim panels underneath the driver's side of the dashboard.
5. Locate the yellow "CPA" connector for the airbag underneath the dash to the right of the steering column and disconnect. Remove the blue (or green) pin from the center of the connector to allow for the tab to be depressed.
6. Use the #30 TORX bit (or the corresponding Hex bit) to loosen the 2 bolts that secure the airbag to the steering wheel, located on the back of the wheel. The bolts will stay inside of the wheel. You will have to turn the wheel to the left to get to the left hand bolt.
7. Lift the airbag module away from the steering wheel.
8. Using the same procedure as described in step 5, disconnect the airbag wiring. Also disconnect the horn wire and RSWC connector (if available.) The horn is disconnected by following the red wire down to the white plastic "cylinder" sticking up from the column. Press in on the cylinder and rotate it counter-clockwise, then it should pop out (it's spring loaded.) On the Regal, there is a ground wire that "pins" inside of one one of the bolt holes for the steering wheel puller. Be sure to remove it as well. The Grand Prix and Lumina airbags will have a large piece of metal that acts as a spring that rests against the steering shaft (that is how the horn gets "grounded.")
9. Set the airbag aside. Carry it with the driver's side facing away from you. Set it down on a workbench facing up.
10. Point the wheels straight ahead once again.
You should now see the following:
11. Remove the steering wheel nut.
12. Install the steering wheel puller and remove the steering wheel.
You should now see this:
What you see exposed now is the airbag clockspring. The wire with the yellow connector is for the airbag, the one with the flat, black connector (on the bottom with the blue on the top) is for the RSWC.
13. Remove the snap ring that retains the clockspring.
14. Lift the clockspring off of the steering shaft and let it hang.
*WARNING* Do not allow the yellow inner ring of the clockspring to rotate, otherwise you will have to reset it later. Draw a mark across the black and yellow rings for alignment purposes, and place a piece of tape across the rings to prevent them from turning...
15. Remove the "wave" washer.
16. Remove the plastic cover on the left side exposing the washer and dimmer switches.
17. Pull the multifunction stalk straight out and disconnect the cruise control wiring from the washer switch.
You will now see the following:
The part that's exposed now is the Lock Plate. It has a spring pressing up against the back of it, and it is held in place by a retaining clip. You will need to use the lock plate compressor tool to press down on the lock plate to take tension off the spring in order to remove the retaining clip.
18. Use the lock plate compressor to depress the lock plate. The center of the tool threads on to the steering shaft, and the 2 "forks" press down on the lock plate.
Here's a pic of the Lock Plate Compressor tool installed on the column and pressing down on the lock plate:
19. Use the 2 small screwdrivers to remove the lock plate retaining clip. Have patience with this step, 'cause it takes a while to work the clip loose. If you bend the clip, no worries, you can easily bend it back into shape.
20. Remove the lock plate compressor.
21. Lift off the lock plate, paying attention to where you have it aligned. You will need to align it in the same position when reassembling the column. (Look 3 pictures up to see how it should be aligned.)
22. Carefully remove the hazzard flasher knob from the top of the column.
23. Remove the cancelling cam and spring.
You will now see this:
24. Remove the 2 screws that hold the dimmer switch to the signal switch.
25. Remove the 3 screws retaining the signal switch in place. You will have to move the switch into the "right signal on" position to remove the final screw.
26. Locate the bulkhead connector underneath the dash to the right of the steering column, loosen the large (red in the picture) bolt in the center of the connector and pull the connector straight out it. The bolt has an 8mm head, BTW.
Here's an overview of what you'll see under the dash:
Here's a pic of the Bulkhead up close with the signal switch harness hilighted (actually it's the harness on top, not the lower one pointed to in the pic.)
27. The signal switch harness piggybacks to the ignition switch harness. With the Bulkhead connector unbolted and removed, remove the blue retaining tabs and slide the signal switch harness *backwards* to remove it. It only slides in one direction, BTW. You may need to wedge a tiny screwdriver in the center of the signal switch harness to get it to disengage from the bulkhead.
28. If you have RSWC, disconnect the RSWC connector from the signal switch (there's a pigtail harness running from the signal switch to the connector)
29. Feed the wires up the column. You will have to first angle the harness so it will slip into the channel of the column. Pull on the signal switch to aid in feeding the wires up.
30. Installation is the reverse of removal.
31. When you get to point of reinstalling the clockspring, align the tab at the top centered with the notches near 12 O'Clock on the column.
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Here's how you replace a broken cancelling spring:
Follow the disassembly instructions above from Step 1 through Step 23
Here's what the signal switch looks like with one of the cancelling springs broken:
The springs are easily removed with a needle-nose pliers. They are installed the same way they came out.
Here's a pic of the switch with the new springs installed:
Reassembly is the reverse of removal.
Before you install the clockspring, go to Step 31.
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Just in case anybody was wondering how the column is assembled, here's a diagram I found on the GMPartsDirect website:
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Ford recalls 281,000 F-150 trucks in U.S.
DETROIT (Reuters) -- Ford Motor Co. is recalling nearly 281,000 F-150 pickup trucks in the United States because of a potential problem with the door handles not working properly, the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported today.
Model years 2009 and 2010 F-150 trucks produced from January 2008 to November 2009 are being recalled because in the event of a crash, "the door handle spring can fail causing the door latch to open," NHTSA said in a filing.
As of Jan. 21, there had been no reported accidents or injuries related to this issue, Ford told NHTSA.
Ford said that customers will initially be asked to bring their F-150s to dealerships if any door handle is loose or fails to return to a stowed position.
Later, once replacement parts are available, owners will be asked to bring in their trucks for inspection at Ford or Lincoln dealerships, the filing said.
The F-150 is the primary model of the F-series of pickup trucks that have been for 34 straight years the best-selling vehicles in the U.S. market.
Model years 2009 and 2010 F-150 trucks produced from January 2008 to November 2009 are being recalled because in the event of a crash, "the door handle spring can fail causing the door latch to open," NHTSA said in a filing.
As of Jan. 21, there had been no reported accidents or injuries related to this issue, Ford told NHTSA.
Ford said that customers will initially be asked to bring their F-150s to dealerships if any door handle is loose or fails to return to a stowed position.
Later, once replacement parts are available, owners will be asked to bring in their trucks for inspection at Ford or Lincoln dealerships, the filing said.
The F-150 is the primary model of the F-series of pickup trucks that have been for 34 straight years the best-selling vehicles in the U.S. market.
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Honda may end CR-V export to U.S. to reduce yen impact
TOKYO (Reuters) -- Honda Motor Co. is looking to end exports of the popular CR-V crossover to the United States from Japan when it is remodeled in autumn to reduce losses from the strong yen, an executive said today.
"Our profit structure has improved mainly thanks to robust overseas operations, and the toughest area remains exports from Japan," Chief Financial Officer Yoichi Hojo said at a reporters' roundtable at Honda's headquarters.
"With a little investment, we would be able to increase production of the CR-V in the United States, so that's the most probable course of action (to reduce yen exposure)," he said.
Japanese automakers are reeling from a strong yen, now trading at around 81-82 to the dollar, losing money on many models that are exported from domestic factories.
Honda already has the least currency exposure among Japan's top automakers given its relatively low export ratio of 30 percent. Last year, Toyota Motor Corp. shipped 53 percent of its Japan-made vehicles, and Nissan Motor Co. exported 59 percent.
Honda, Japan's third-biggest automaker, built about 72,000 CR-Vs in Japan last year, exporting about 35,000 of them to the United States. Honda also builds the model in Mexico and Ohio.
Cost, pricing structure improving
Rivals are also taking similar steps to reduce exports from Japan. Nissan said last month it would shift production of its Rogue crossover from Japan to the United States at its next remodeling in 2013.
Hojo said Honda, like other Japanese automakers, would look to use more components from low-cost countries such as China and India to take advantage of the strong yen, also making those adjustments when vehicles are renewed.
Honda is due to revamp its high-volume Civic this spring, and Hojo said he expected new low-cost parts to account for at least 10 percent of the car, from virtually none now.
Honda has already raised that ratio on the low-margin Fit subcompact to 17 percent, and is aiming to boost that to about 30 percent, Hojo said.
Honda on Monday delivered better-than-expected third-quarter earnings and lifted its annual profit forecasts beyond the market consensus, largely due to the popularity of light trucks in North America.
With gasoline prices still relatively stable, more U.S. consumers are driving away with light trucks instead of passenger cars, and Hojo said Honda was boosting daily production capacity at its Alabama plant by 50 units to 650 units from this month to meet demand for the Odyssey minivan and other bigger models.
Honda this week forecast an operating profit of 620 billion yen ($7.6 billion) for the business year ending on March 31, for an operating margin of 7.0 percent -- at the top end of the industry -- despite an 8-yen fall in the dollar.
Executive Vice President Koichi Kondo said this week Honda had achieved an earnings structure under which it could make a profit of 100 billion yen ($1.23 billion) per quarter at a dollar rate of 85 yen and car sales of 900,000 units. A year ago, it strived to achieve that level of profitability at 90 yen to the dollar.
Hojo attributed the stronger earnings structure to the company's ability to raise its product prices -- by around 1 percent to 2 percent a year in the United States -- and a better cost structure partly helped by greater economies of scale.
Honda's shares have jumped 27 percent in the past three months, outperforming a gain of about 20 percent for both Toyota and Nissan.
"Our profit structure has improved mainly thanks to robust overseas operations, and the toughest area remains exports from Japan," Chief Financial Officer Yoichi Hojo said at a reporters' roundtable at Honda's headquarters.
"With a little investment, we would be able to increase production of the CR-V in the United States, so that's the most probable course of action (to reduce yen exposure)," he said.
Japanese automakers are reeling from a strong yen, now trading at around 81-82 to the dollar, losing money on many models that are exported from domestic factories.
Honda already has the least currency exposure among Japan's top automakers given its relatively low export ratio of 30 percent. Last year, Toyota Motor Corp. shipped 53 percent of its Japan-made vehicles, and Nissan Motor Co. exported 59 percent.
Honda, Japan's third-biggest automaker, built about 72,000 CR-Vs in Japan last year, exporting about 35,000 of them to the United States. Honda also builds the model in Mexico and Ohio.
Cost, pricing structure improving
Rivals are also taking similar steps to reduce exports from Japan. Nissan said last month it would shift production of its Rogue crossover from Japan to the United States at its next remodeling in 2013.
Hojo said Honda, like other Japanese automakers, would look to use more components from low-cost countries such as China and India to take advantage of the strong yen, also making those adjustments when vehicles are renewed.
Honda is due to revamp its high-volume Civic this spring, and Hojo said he expected new low-cost parts to account for at least 10 percent of the car, from virtually none now.
Honda has already raised that ratio on the low-margin Fit subcompact to 17 percent, and is aiming to boost that to about 30 percent, Hojo said.
Honda on Monday delivered better-than-expected third-quarter earnings and lifted its annual profit forecasts beyond the market consensus, largely due to the popularity of light trucks in North America.
With gasoline prices still relatively stable, more U.S. consumers are driving away with light trucks instead of passenger cars, and Hojo said Honda was boosting daily production capacity at its Alabama plant by 50 units to 650 units from this month to meet demand for the Odyssey minivan and other bigger models.
Honda this week forecast an operating profit of 620 billion yen ($7.6 billion) for the business year ending on March 31, for an operating margin of 7.0 percent -- at the top end of the industry -- despite an 8-yen fall in the dollar.
Executive Vice President Koichi Kondo said this week Honda had achieved an earnings structure under which it could make a profit of 100 billion yen ($1.23 billion) per quarter at a dollar rate of 85 yen and car sales of 900,000 units. A year ago, it strived to achieve that level of profitability at 90 yen to the dollar.
Hojo attributed the stronger earnings structure to the company's ability to raise its product prices -- by around 1 percent to 2 percent a year in the United States -- and a better cost structure partly helped by greater economies of scale.
Honda's shares have jumped 27 percent in the past three months, outperforming a gain of about 20 percent for both Toyota and Nissan.
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