U.S. safety regulators have opened preliminary investigations into consumer complaints about vehicles made by Nissan Motor Co., Chrysler LLC and General Motors that could affect more than 700,000 cars.
A preliminary investigation is the first step in a process that could lead to a recall if regulators determine that a safety issue needs to be addressed by a manufacturer.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said its probe into an estimated 440,000 Nissan Altima cars from the 2007 and 2008 model years concerned a possible leak in the brake master cylinder that could reduce the effectiveness of the brakes.
NHTSA said it had received 20 complaints from Altima drivers. Of these, two alleged a reduction in brake effectiveness while 18 reported only illumination of the brake warning light.
The agency said it was also investigating Chrysler's Jeep Wrangler from the 2007 and 2008 model years, potentially affecting 222,500 vehicles, over airbag light illumination indicating an airbag clockspring failure.
A clockspring is a coil under the steering wheel that maintains an electrical connection to the airbag on the driver's side. A broken circuit can mean the airbag will not inflate.
NHTSA said it had received 29 consumer complaints from Jeep drivers. Of these, 23 identified the clockspring wiring assembly as the source of the issue, while the other six only said the airbag light had been illuminated.
Of 14 owners contacted, six said they owned right-hand-drive versions typically used by postal carriers.
A third probe involves GM's 2007 Saturn Aura, potentially affecting 65,105 cars, over a transmission shift cable that could fail, causing the park gear not to fully engage.
The agency said it had received eight complaints alleging that the transmission shift cable had failed, causing the vehicle to roll away, move or accelerate with the shifter in park, or to accelerate in the opposite direction than the driver intended.
NHTSA did not disclose any crashes or injuries in connection with any of the reported problems.
Spokesmen for the three companies said the carmakers were cooperating fully with the investigations.
Monday, May 30, 2011
Saturday, May 28, 2011
GM's next big SUVs to carry cost premium to meet fuel-economy rules
Analysts say GM will need to look at powertrain options so they don't detract from the overall fuel economy on its next generation large SUVs.
General Motors' next generation full-sized SUVs likely will carry a cost premium to meet new fuel-economy regulations, an analyst says.
GM said Thursday it will invest $331 million to retool its Arlington, Texas, plant to build the redesigned Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban, GMC Yukon and Cadillac Escalade. The plant builds the current generation of those vehicles.
Although the automaker did not provide a time frame, industry sources say the SUVs will debut in 2013 as 2014 models.
"They will be more expensive to engineer and build because of the need for lighter weight materials," said Tracy Handler, an analyst at IHS Automotive. "I expect prices to be higher."
The fate of GM's full-sized SUVs had been in doubt due to high fuel prices and stricter government rules on fuel economy and emissions.
Overall, large SUV and SUT demand has plummeted after hitting more than 1 million units in 2003 and 2004, according to the Automotive News Data Center. Last year, U.S. sales of the Lincoln Navigator, Toyota Sequoia, Chevrolet Avalanche, GMC Yukon XL and other full-sized SUV and SUTs totaled 372,437units.
While volumes have dropped, analysts say the segment remains profitable.
At one point over the past year or so, industry sources said GM's full-sized SUVs would be dropped, replaced by a range of vehicles developed on GM's front-wheel-drive Lambda platform.
"We have customers who need full-sized SUVs for work and play," Chevrolet spokesman Mike Albano said. "We will continue to provide a vehicle in that segment."
Automakers and regulators are debating a proposal initiated by President Obama last October calling for corporate average fuel economy of 47 mpg to 62 mpg by the 2025 model year.
The latest proposal would start with the 2017 model year, with final CAFE targets to be determined. New federal fuel economy and emissions rules took effect Jan. 1 that require automakers to achieve a CAFE of 35.5 mpg by the 2016 model year.
Handler did not expect GM to drop its full-sized SUVs.
The large SUV "is important for the person who wants to tow, especially in Texas where they want it big. I can't see them abandoning that market," she said.
But she said GM "will need to look at powertrain options so they don't detract from overall fuel economy."
The 2011 Tahoe 1500 and Suburban 1500 achieve 15 mpg city/21 highway for a combined average of 17 mpg. GM also offers a gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain on some large SUVs to improve fuel economy.
Last year, Chevrolet sold 75,675 Tahoes and 45,152 Suburbans. During the first four months of 2011, Tahoe sales are up 11 percent and Suburban sales are down 13 percent.
As recently as 2006, however, GM sold 161,491 Tahoes and 77,211 Suburbans.
General Motors' next generation full-sized SUVs likely will carry a cost premium to meet new fuel-economy regulations, an analyst says.
GM said Thursday it will invest $331 million to retool its Arlington, Texas, plant to build the redesigned Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban, GMC Yukon and Cadillac Escalade. The plant builds the current generation of those vehicles.
Although the automaker did not provide a time frame, industry sources say the SUVs will debut in 2013 as 2014 models.
"They will be more expensive to engineer and build because of the need for lighter weight materials," said Tracy Handler, an analyst at IHS Automotive. "I expect prices to be higher."
The fate of GM's full-sized SUVs had been in doubt due to high fuel prices and stricter government rules on fuel economy and emissions.
Overall, large SUV and SUT demand has plummeted after hitting more than 1 million units in 2003 and 2004, according to the Automotive News Data Center. Last year, U.S. sales of the Lincoln Navigator, Toyota Sequoia, Chevrolet Avalanche, GMC Yukon XL and other full-sized SUV and SUTs totaled 372,437units.
While volumes have dropped, analysts say the segment remains profitable.
At one point over the past year or so, industry sources said GM's full-sized SUVs would be dropped, replaced by a range of vehicles developed on GM's front-wheel-drive Lambda platform.
"We have customers who need full-sized SUVs for work and play," Chevrolet spokesman Mike Albano said. "We will continue to provide a vehicle in that segment."
Automakers and regulators are debating a proposal initiated by President Obama last October calling for corporate average fuel economy of 47 mpg to 62 mpg by the 2025 model year.
The latest proposal would start with the 2017 model year, with final CAFE targets to be determined. New federal fuel economy and emissions rules took effect Jan. 1 that require automakers to achieve a CAFE of 35.5 mpg by the 2016 model year.
Handler did not expect GM to drop its full-sized SUVs.
The large SUV "is important for the person who wants to tow, especially in Texas where they want it big. I can't see them abandoning that market," she said.
But she said GM "will need to look at powertrain options so they don't detract from overall fuel economy."
The 2011 Tahoe 1500 and Suburban 1500 achieve 15 mpg city/21 highway for a combined average of 17 mpg. GM also offers a gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain on some large SUVs to improve fuel economy.
Last year, Chevrolet sold 75,675 Tahoes and 45,152 Suburbans. During the first four months of 2011, Tahoe sales are up 11 percent and Suburban sales are down 13 percent.
As recently as 2006, however, GM sold 161,491 Tahoes and 77,211 Suburbans.
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
As automakers hunt for ways to boost fuel economy, many systems in gasoline-powered vehicles shift to electricity
2012 Buick Lacrosse Regenerative Braking
The lines separating electric vehicles, hybrids and conventional gasoline-powered vehicles are blurring as automakers add similar electric-powered features to all three.Electric power steering, stop-start engine systems and electric-powered oil pumps are among the features originally intended for EVs and hybrids that are being adapted to gasoline-powered vehicles.
The goal: Improve fuel economy by cutting parasitic energy loss that occurs when vehicle accessories are powered by belt drives connected to the engine.
Gasoline-powered vehicles also are starting to get regenerative brakes, which convert kinetic energy into electricity to recharge the starter battery.
Among the leaders in the effort is BMW AG, which is rolling out these and other technologies under its EfficientDynamics fuel-saving program.
BMW has introduced electric-powered oil pumps, engine coolant pumps and steering systems. Now it plans to add regenerative brakes and stop-start systems to all its vehicles, and it is developing some gee-whiz computer controls to improve vehicle efficiency.
GM's approach
Mass-market automakers are taking a similar approach. General Motors, for instance, has improved its mild hybrid technology and reintroduced it as eAssist.
Features of eAssist, which will be available on the 2012 Buick LaCrosse and Regal and 2013 Chevrolet Malibu, include stop-start systems, and regenerative brakes that recharge a small lithium ion battery.
The lithium ion battery, in turn, provides power to the stop-start system, reducing the starter battery's workload. The separate starter battery on the three cars is a traditional 12-volt lead-acid unit.
When the vehicle accelerates, the lithium ion battery provides extra power to the wheels via a motor that doubles as the car's alternator and starter motor. A drive belt connects the alternator-starter to the crankshaft. The battery and alternator-starter alone cannot power the wheels; they only provide an assist.
To GM, eAssist is attractive because it is much cheaper to produce than a hybrid powertrain.
"Consumers want fuel economy," says Buick spokesman Nick Richards. "But the cost [of a full hybrid] holds them back. So we didn't redesign the entire vehicle around the powertrain."
The 2013 Malibu with eAssist gets an estimated 38 mpg on the highway, vs. 33 for the standard 2011 base Malibu.
These electrical devices have created demand for improved engine control units and sophisticated software to manage the electrical system.
Electric power
Here's a quick tour of key components in the electrification of the vehicle:
-- Stop-start systems. When the motorist stops the vehicle, the engine control unit automatically stops the engine, then restarts it when the driver lifts his foot off the brake. Stop-start can improve fuel economy from 4 to 10 percent. These systems typically require an upgraded starter motor and a more durable battery. Robert Bosch GmbH, Denso Corp. and Continental AG have developed stop-start components.
-- Electric power steering. Conventional power steering uses a hydraulic piston to exert the force needed to turn the wheels. The hydraulic system draws its energy from a belt drive connected to the engine. Electric power steering replaces the hydraulics with an electric motor mounted on the steering column or in the engine bay. Unlike a hydraulic system, the electric motor uses power only when the vehicle is turning. Electric power steering can improve fuel economy as much as 4 percent. Major suppliers include ZF Friedrichshafen AG, TRW Automotive Holdings Corp., Nexteer Automotive, Mando Corp., NSK Ltd., Denso Corp. and JTEKT Corp.
-- Electric-powered oil pumps and engine coolant pumps. BMW has designed an engine management system that regulates operation of the coolant and oil pumps, depending on engine conditions. These pumps draw power from electric motors rather than belt drives connected to the engine.
-- Electric parking brakes. An electric parking brake eliminates the need for a parking brake lever or pedal.
-- Regenerative brakes. These systems, mainstays of electric vehicles and hybrids, are starting to appear in conventional vehicles. They recharge the battery when the motorist steps on the brakes.
-- Upgraded batteries. To handle the increased load of electrical accessories, automakers are installing more durable 12-volt lead-acid batteries.
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Honda recalls some 2012 Civics, citing risk of fuel leak
Honda Motor Co. has recalled about 1,500 current model Civic compact cars in North America due to a fuel leak risk that could lead to a vehicle fire, the company and U.S. federal safety regulators said today.
The popular Civic is in short supply in North America because of the aftermath of the March 11 earthquake in Japan. Honda on Thursday said June is going to be the low point for dealer inventory of the venerable compact.
In the United States, 1,156 Civic were recalled. On Thursday, Honda Canada announced a recall of 377 Civic compacts.
The Civics recalled were assembled from April 21 to May 2.
Most of the affected vehicles have not yet been sold and will be repaired prior to sale. Honda said that 17 percent of Civics to be sold in the U.S. contain the defect.
Honda Canada said only two of the affected vehicles were sold to consumers. No similar figure was available for U.S. sales.
Honda will notify affected Civic owners by the end of next week to bring their cars to Honda dealerships for inspection, and, if needed, will replace the fuel feed lines free of charge, the automaker said.
A fuel leak could occur if an O-ring that seals the fuel feed line is misaligned, according to a filing with the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
There have been no reports of fires, crashes or injuries. The issue was noticed on April 29 when a Honda production worker noticed a fuel smell on a new Civic, Honda told regulators.
The fuel line at issue was made by a Honda supplier, records show.
Civic was the No. 3 selling car in the U.S. in April, behind only the Toyota Corolla and the Honda Accord.
The popular Civic is in short supply in North America because of the aftermath of the March 11 earthquake in Japan. Honda on Thursday said June is going to be the low point for dealer inventory of the venerable compact.
In the United States, 1,156 Civic were recalled. On Thursday, Honda Canada announced a recall of 377 Civic compacts.
The Civics recalled were assembled from April 21 to May 2.
Most of the affected vehicles have not yet been sold and will be repaired prior to sale. Honda said that 17 percent of Civics to be sold in the U.S. contain the defect.
Honda Canada said only two of the affected vehicles were sold to consumers. No similar figure was available for U.S. sales.
Honda will notify affected Civic owners by the end of next week to bring their cars to Honda dealerships for inspection, and, if needed, will replace the fuel feed lines free of charge, the automaker said.
A fuel leak could occur if an O-ring that seals the fuel feed line is misaligned, according to a filing with the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
There have been no reports of fires, crashes or injuries. The issue was noticed on April 29 when a Honda production worker noticed a fuel smell on a new Civic, Honda told regulators.
The fuel line at issue was made by a Honda supplier, records show.
Civic was the No. 3 selling car in the U.S. in April, behind only the Toyota Corolla and the Honda Accord.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
2000 Grand Cherokee Jeep Evap code
I have a 2000 Grand Cherokee Jeep 2WD. I had my “check engine light” looked at by a car repair shop. They told me that I had an Evap code of P0043. The mechanic said that the price would be around $300 to replace canisters, etc. Is this a good price? and what are the problems that this could cause with my car if it is not taken care of?
Response:
$300 for the O2 Sensor is a bit steep.. but as far as what happens if you do nothing, the good news is, nothing. The light will just be on. This o2 sensor just moniters the function of the Catalytic converter and has no bearing on fuel mileage or driveability of the vehicle and is only on there because our government says it has to be. You can drive it forever with out this particular part being replaced.
P0043 HO2S Heater Control Circuit Low Bank 1 Sensor 3
Symptoms
- Engine Light ON (or Service Engine Soon Warning Light)
Possible causes
- Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 3 circuit open shorted to ground
- Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 3 circuit poor electrical connection
- Faulty Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 3 circuit
- Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 3 circuit fuse
- Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)
Tech notes
The code means that there is a problem with the READ MORE
Response:
$300 for the O2 Sensor is a bit steep.. but as far as what happens if you do nothing, the good news is, nothing. The light will just be on. This o2 sensor just moniters the function of the Catalytic converter and has no bearing on fuel mileage or driveability of the vehicle and is only on there because our government says it has to be. You can drive it forever with out this particular part being replaced.
P0043 HO2S Heater Control Circuit Low Bank 1 Sensor 3
Symptoms
- Engine Light ON (or Service Engine Soon Warning Light)
Possible causes
- Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 3 circuit open shorted to ground
- Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 3 circuit poor electrical connection
- Faulty Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 3 circuit
- Heated Oxygen Sensor (H2OS) Bank 1 Sensor 3 circuit fuse
- Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)
Tech notes
The code means that there is a problem with the READ MORE
Monday, May 16, 2011
Dealers fear used-car bubble
Auction prices soar, but some say retail demand isn't on same pace
Already high used-vehicle prices are surging at auctions as dealers anticipate gaps in new-car inventories and snatch up used vehicles to fill their lots.
Fears of impending new-vehicle shortages as a result of the March 11 earthquake have pushed up used-vehicle prices. In recent weeks those fears have created a buying frenzy, especially for late-model, fuel-efficient vehicles.
But Damon Schoen, wholesale director at Hamilton Nissan in Hagerstown, Md., and others say retail demand for those vehicles has yet to catch up with the wholesale demand. They warn that used-vehicle auction prices could drop sharply.
Last week Schoen saw 2010 Hyundai Accents with 30,000 miles selling at auction for around $10,500 -- about $2,000 more than he would have paid at the end of February, he says.
His customers aren't clamoring for small used cars, he says, because they would pay almost as much for a used one as a new one. And he acknowledges that he might have to rejoin the bidding if he runs low.
"I participated in the bubble process," he says. "I have enough of these little things gathered up. When we start selling a couple, I'll be forced to go back to the well to replace them."
Michelle Primm, managing partner at Cascade Auto Group, which sells Audi, Mazda, Porsche and Subaru vehicles in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, typically buys the used vehicles she needs through auctions run by the manufacturers of her brands. But even those prices have "overheated," she says.
In an effort to find used vehicles with lower prices she has expanded her search to include local classified ads for private sellers and vehicles that have been repossessed.
Primm says consumer demand doesn't line up with the auction bidding because the general population does not understand the inventory problem facing the industry over the next few months. Dealers must plan ahead so they are ready, she says. "Dealers plan 60, 90 or 100 days out. It's what we're good at."
Even so, some dealers and analysts warn that auction buyers could get stuck with vehicles for which they overpaid. Falling new-car prices or lower gasoline prices could prompt a drop in used-vehicle prices, they say.
Since the Japan quake, rising new-vehicle transaction prices have, in turn, lifted used-vehicle prices. But that could change.
Last week, after announcing that its North American factories would be cranking up production sooner than expected, Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A. announced regional cash, interest-rate and lease incentives on most vehicles. Nissan Motor Co. followed suit.
Up 10% in one month
But for now, wholesale used-vehicle prices continue to surge. In its June 1 edition, NADA Used Car Guide raises its suggested prices of used small vehicles by about 10 percent from May levels. And some nameplates will jump even more.
For June, the NADA Guide raises the price of a 2007 Toyota Prius by $1,950, or 15 percent from May, to $15,350 and a 2010 Honda Civic LX sedan by $1,675, or almost 12 percent, to $15,950.
The increases are not limited to Japanese-brand vehicles. The NADA Guide raises the average price of the 2007 Chevrolet Aveo LS sedan by $750, or 14 percent, to $6,125, and that of the 2010 Hyundai Accent GLS by $1,175, or 11 percent, to $11,900.
Typically, used-vehicle prices peak in March and decline from April through June, says Jonathan Banks, NADA Used Car Guide senior director of editorial and data services.
This year, he predicts, used-vehicle prices will peak in June and flatten on the high side in July as new-vehicle prices gradually rise because of lower incentives and higher sticker prices. "We saw new-car incentives on small cars go down by about $400 from March to April. And we expect a similar move from April to May, which means used-car prices can go up," Banks says.
Pump price impact
Alec Gutierrez, manager of vehicle valuation at Kelley Blue Book, cautioned dealers to resist the temptation to load up on fuel-efficient vehicles. He says gasoline prices are predicted to fall in mid to late summer. When that happens, prices of fuel-efficient vehicles will drop significantly.
The price of the benchmark West Texas Intermediate crude oil hovered around $99 a barrel late last week, after flirting with $115 a barrel early this month.
"As we saw in 2008, when gas prices peaked at $4.10 per gallon, by year end we were back down to $1.60," Gutierrez says. "We're not saying we think prices are going to drop that much, but $3 or $3.50 a gallon is a possibility."
Already high used-vehicle prices are surging at auctions as dealers anticipate gaps in new-car inventories and snatch up used vehicles to fill their lots.
Fears of impending new-vehicle shortages as a result of the March 11 earthquake have pushed up used-vehicle prices. In recent weeks those fears have created a buying frenzy, especially for late-model, fuel-efficient vehicles.
But Damon Schoen, wholesale director at Hamilton Nissan in Hagerstown, Md., and others say retail demand for those vehicles has yet to catch up with the wholesale demand. They warn that used-vehicle auction prices could drop sharply.
Last week Schoen saw 2010 Hyundai Accents with 30,000 miles selling at auction for around $10,500 -- about $2,000 more than he would have paid at the end of February, he says.
His customers aren't clamoring for small used cars, he says, because they would pay almost as much for a used one as a new one. And he acknowledges that he might have to rejoin the bidding if he runs low.
"I participated in the bubble process," he says. "I have enough of these little things gathered up. When we start selling a couple, I'll be forced to go back to the well to replace them."
Michelle Primm, managing partner at Cascade Auto Group, which sells Audi, Mazda, Porsche and Subaru vehicles in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, typically buys the used vehicles she needs through auctions run by the manufacturers of her brands. But even those prices have "overheated," she says.
In an effort to find used vehicles with lower prices she has expanded her search to include local classified ads for private sellers and vehicles that have been repossessed.
Primm says consumer demand doesn't line up with the auction bidding because the general population does not understand the inventory problem facing the industry over the next few months. Dealers must plan ahead so they are ready, she says. "Dealers plan 60, 90 or 100 days out. It's what we're good at."
Even so, some dealers and analysts warn that auction buyers could get stuck with vehicles for which they overpaid. Falling new-car prices or lower gasoline prices could prompt a drop in used-vehicle prices, they say.
Since the Japan quake, rising new-vehicle transaction prices have, in turn, lifted used-vehicle prices. But that could change.
Last week, after announcing that its North American factories would be cranking up production sooner than expected, Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A. announced regional cash, interest-rate and lease incentives on most vehicles. Nissan Motor Co. followed suit.
Up 10% in one month
But for now, wholesale used-vehicle prices continue to surge. In its June 1 edition, NADA Used Car Guide raises its suggested prices of used small vehicles by about 10 percent from May levels. And some nameplates will jump even more.
For June, the NADA Guide raises the price of a 2007 Toyota Prius by $1,950, or 15 percent from May, to $15,350 and a 2010 Honda Civic LX sedan by $1,675, or almost 12 percent, to $15,950.
The increases are not limited to Japanese-brand vehicles. The NADA Guide raises the average price of the 2007 Chevrolet Aveo LS sedan by $750, or 14 percent, to $6,125, and that of the 2010 Hyundai Accent GLS by $1,175, or 11 percent, to $11,900.
Typically, used-vehicle prices peak in March and decline from April through June, says Jonathan Banks, NADA Used Car Guide senior director of editorial and data services.
This year, he predicts, used-vehicle prices will peak in June and flatten on the high side in July as new-vehicle prices gradually rise because of lower incentives and higher sticker prices. "We saw new-car incentives on small cars go down by about $400 from March to April. And we expect a similar move from April to May, which means used-car prices can go up," Banks says.
Pump price impact
Alec Gutierrez, manager of vehicle valuation at Kelley Blue Book, cautioned dealers to resist the temptation to load up on fuel-efficient vehicles. He says gasoline prices are predicted to fall in mid to late summer. When that happens, prices of fuel-efficient vehicles will drop significantly.
The price of the benchmark West Texas Intermediate crude oil hovered around $99 a barrel late last week, after flirting with $115 a barrel early this month.
"As we saw in 2008, when gas prices peaked at $4.10 per gallon, by year end we were back down to $1.60," Gutierrez says. "We're not saying we think prices are going to drop that much, but $3 or $3.50 a gallon is a possibility."
Saturday, May 14, 2011
2005 Chevy Cobalt - Something weird going on in front end...
My daughter has a 2005 Chevy Cobalt LS. Just under 60,000 miles. My husband drove it today and suggest that she not drive it. When you are driving and stop at a stop sign and make a turn, the wheel does not turn its self back when you are turning and accelerating. You have to make the wheel turn back. Any ideas what this might be? Any input would be great.
Response:
It could be a bad Rack and Pinion. These units are warrentied for 100,000 miles by GM. If the Dealership says anything but No Charge simply write GM with the Dealerships name and location and GM will tell you where to go to have it checked out and repaired or replaced at NO charge. This is just 1 of many items that Dealerships try to SELL while under warrenty and IF you didn't know that it has an independant coverage you would be suckered into paying for the repair and that Dealership would also send in a warrenty claim to be reimbursed. Basically being paid twice for a single repair.
Response:
It could be a bad Rack and Pinion. These units are warrentied for 100,000 miles by GM. If the Dealership says anything but No Charge simply write GM with the Dealerships name and location and GM will tell you where to go to have it checked out and repaired or replaced at NO charge. This is just 1 of many items that Dealerships try to SELL while under warrenty and IF you didn't know that it has an independant coverage you would be suckered into paying for the repair and that Dealership would also send in a warrenty claim to be reimbursed. Basically being paid twice for a single repair.
Thursday, May 12, 2011
Removing harmonic balancer pully need help
Okay here gos our issue, working on a 2000 chrysler cirus, changing out water pump and timing belt. So okay we know how to do that and where it is only problem we have is getting the harmonic balancer pully off to get to it all any suggestions on how or what to do. We have a pully puller, with j hooks. What was susposed to be a day job has turned in to a weeks night mare.
Response:
1) Use a balancer puller
2) The puller needed isn't a Jaw Puller rather it looks like a Peace Sign and has 3 or 4 bolts that go thru it and screw into the balancer where the pully is bolted. Then the center bolt screws down to the crankshaft and is pressed/pulled off. Intallation has a long threaded bolt with a nut and washer that threads into the end of the crankshaft. Tighten the nut and watch as the balancer is pressed on.
3) You can borrow one for free from Auto Zone, give them a deposit & get your deposit back when you return it. I'll bet the guys at Auto Zone will tell you how to use it, not hard to do
Response:
1) Use a balancer puller
2) The puller needed isn't a Jaw Puller rather it looks like a Peace Sign and has 3 or 4 bolts that go thru it and screw into the balancer where the pully is bolted. Then the center bolt screws down to the crankshaft and is pressed/pulled off. Intallation has a long threaded bolt with a nut and washer that threads into the end of the crankshaft. Tighten the nut and watch as the balancer is pressed on.
3) You can borrow one for free from Auto Zone, give them a deposit & get your deposit back when you return it. I'll bet the guys at Auto Zone will tell you how to use it, not hard to do
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
05 Chev Impala 3.4 water pump
I'm doing a water pump on this vehicle this afternoon. Any thing particular I should be aware of?
Response:
1) aluminum housing use pb! take time so dont snap bolts! other than that 3m spay to allign pump! but with patients u got this!
2) There was little plastic tits on all the bolts but one. They made it a real pain to put back together.
3) That's silicone... Shoulda peeled it off
4) NO its a very hard plastic, I believe it was some idiot engineers bright idea to hold the gasket in place. Never seen that before and I've probaly done a thousand water pumps.
5) Oh I did one on the same car and it appeared that way but was just silicone... That's why I said that... But none the less definately a stupid design by engineering
Response:
1) aluminum housing use pb! take time so dont snap bolts! other than that 3m spay to allign pump! but with patients u got this!
2) There was little plastic tits on all the bolts but one. They made it a real pain to put back together.
3) That's silicone... Shoulda peeled it off
4) NO its a very hard plastic, I believe it was some idiot engineers bright idea to hold the gasket in place. Never seen that before and I've probaly done a thousand water pumps.
5) Oh I did one on the same car and it appeared that way but was just silicone... That's why I said that... But none the less definately a stupid design by engineering
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Ford to offer 'mayhem' performance package to Mustang option list
The social networks have spoken: The Ford Mustang V6 performance package will now be known as the Mayhem Mustang package.
Ford put out a call to its 1.4 million Facebook fans with the question, "What should we call the Mustang V-6 performance package?"
More than 3,000 submissions were made via Ford's Facebook page, and almost 6,700 users installed the "You Name It" app. The winning submission came from a fan in North Carolina, who won a three-year lease on the 2012 Ford Mustang V-6.
The five names that received the most votes were selected, but Ford made the final decision. Each finalist was run through trademark, copyright and brand approvals to make sure the no toes were stepped on. The Mayhem name will be used on all of Ford's marketing and communication materials.
The package combines the base 305-hp engine with a 3.31 performance rear axle and Mustang GT-based suspension and braking parts. The Mayhem Mustang gets unique 19-inch wheels and Pirelli performance tires. Other highlights of the package include:
Mustang GT front and rear stabilizer bars
Mustang GT500 rear lower control arm
Strut tower brace for increased body rigidity
Unique electronic stability-control calibration with sport mode for performance driving
Unique badging
The 2012 Ford Mustang V-6 stickers for $22,995 with transportation. The Mustang Mayhem package adds $1,995.
Ford put out a call to its 1.4 million Facebook fans with the question, "What should we call the Mustang V-6 performance package?"
More than 3,000 submissions were made via Ford's Facebook page, and almost 6,700 users installed the "You Name It" app. The winning submission came from a fan in North Carolina, who won a three-year lease on the 2012 Ford Mustang V-6.
The five names that received the most votes were selected, but Ford made the final decision. Each finalist was run through trademark, copyright and brand approvals to make sure the no toes were stepped on. The Mayhem name will be used on all of Ford's marketing and communication materials.
The package combines the base 305-hp engine with a 3.31 performance rear axle and Mustang GT-based suspension and braking parts. The Mayhem Mustang gets unique 19-inch wheels and Pirelli performance tires. Other highlights of the package include:
Mustang GT front and rear stabilizer bars
Mustang GT500 rear lower control arm
Strut tower brace for increased body rigidity
Unique electronic stability-control calibration with sport mode for performance driving
Unique badging
The 2012 Ford Mustang V-6 stickers for $22,995 with transportation. The Mustang Mayhem package adds $1,995.
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Manheim used-car price index hits another record high
Tighter new- and used-vehicle supplies and increased retail demand helped push the Manheim Used Vehicle Value Index to another record in April.
The index, which measures used-vehicle prices, stood at 126.6 last month, up from 124.2 in March and 120.7 in April 2010. The previous record was set in January 2011 at 124.9.
“Wholesale used vehicle prices are also now being supported by the new-vehicle market’s tight inventories, steady demand and higher net transaction prices,” Manhiem said in its monthly commentary.
The index started in January 1995 at 100 and is adjusted for vehicle mileage, model mix and time of year.
Citing data compiled by CNW Marketing Research, Manheim said used-vehicle sales by franchised and independent dealers rose to 7,158,917 units in the first four months of 2011, up 10 percent from the year-earlier level. Sales rose 14 percent to 2,650,619 in April.
Manheim also said certified used-vehicle sales are on pace to set a new record in 2011.
The index, which measures used-vehicle prices, stood at 126.6 last month, up from 124.2 in March and 120.7 in April 2010. The previous record was set in January 2011 at 124.9.
“Wholesale used vehicle prices are also now being supported by the new-vehicle market’s tight inventories, steady demand and higher net transaction prices,” Manhiem said in its monthly commentary.
The index started in January 1995 at 100 and is adjusted for vehicle mileage, model mix and time of year.
Citing data compiled by CNW Marketing Research, Manheim said used-vehicle sales by franchised and independent dealers rose to 7,158,917 units in the first four months of 2011, up 10 percent from the year-earlier level. Sales rose 14 percent to 2,650,619 in April.
Manheim also said certified used-vehicle sales are on pace to set a new record in 2011.
Thursday, May 5, 2011
U.S. light vehicle sales advance 18% on demand for fuel-efficient models
U.S. auto sales -- helped by strong retail volume, new models and fuel-efficient vehicles -- rose 18 percent last month as automakers beat back the effects of rising gasoline prices and dwindling supplies of vehicles.
The seasonally adjusted annual sales rate of 13.2 million marked the third straight month above the 13 million mark. Every automaker increased sales as the industry posted its second biggest percentage gain of the year.
South Korea’s Hyundai and Kia paced the gainers with a combined increase of 47 percent. Their three biggest Japanese rivals – Toyota, Honda and Nissan – all lost share as they battled product shortages following the March 11 earthquake. General Motors and Chrysler boosted share.
“There’s a recovery going on in the auto industry and the economy,” Ford sales analyst George Pipas said. “There are more people working today than 2 or 3 months ago, and there’s more income.”
U.S. auto sales are now up 20 percent for the year. Last month’s SAAR of 13.2 million is still well below the industry’s sales peak of more than 17 million units in 2000 and 2001 but a sign that the industry’s recovery is continuing despite rising fuel prices and mixed readings on employment growth and consumer confidence.
GM’s gain was spurred by a 50 percent jump in demand for cars including the new Chevrolet Cruze. But large pickups rose just 2 percent, and sales of some of the automaker’s biggest SUVs slumped.
Ford said sales rose 13 percent last month. At the Ford division, volume jumped 24 percent on higher sales of F-Series pickups and the new Explorer crossover. Both models offer more fuel-efficient powertrains. But at Lincoln, demand eased 1 percent, reflecting a drop in crossover and large SUV sales.
Hyundai, propelled by the new Elantra small car, said sales rose 40 percent to set an April record of 61,754 units. Hyundai said it expects its U.S. retail market share to hit a record 5.7 percent for the month.
Hyundai also said its sales to fleet customers have dropped 45 percent this year, with fleet representing 13 percent of volume year-to-date and 11 percent in April.
Nissan said higher sales of fuel-efficient models such as the Altima, Sentra, Leaf and Rogue offset a drop in truck and SUV demand. Its overall sales rose 12 percent.
But Toyota Motor Co.’s sales rose just 1 percent last month, with Lexus down 4 percent and Scion surging 60 percent.
Toyota-brand car sales dropped 2 percent, while its truck and SUV volume rose 2 percent. Bob Carter, head of Toyota’s American division, said the automaker was looking forward to “healthy inventory” despite the impact of parts shortages from Japan.
Shift underway
The shift to small cars from larger vehicles accelerated last month, as expected, automakers said.
Honda Motor Co. said demand for the sub-compact Fit rose 66 percent to an April record of 8,116 units and sales of the Insight hybrid jumped 35.4 percent to an April record of 2,644 units.
“Consumers are continuing to rethink their vehicle choice," said Don Johnson, head of GM’s U.S. sales operations. “A lot of sales continue to go into the compact car segment as well as the compact crossover segment."
Sales of the Cruze compact topped 25,000 units in April, with retail volume nearly triple the car it replaced, the Cobalt, from a year earlier.
GM said Chevrolet, GMC and Cadillac each set April total and retail sales records for crossover sales, led by a 49-percent increase in combined retail sales of the Chevy Equinox, GMC Terrain and Cadillac SRX.
But demand for the Chevrolet Suburban SUV dropped 31 percent last month. Chevy Tahoe sales fell 16 percent.
GM said its incentives per vehicle dropped by about $400 from March to April, without providing specifics. Truecar.com, an online shopping site, estimated GM’s incentives averaged $3,524 last month, up about 6.3 percent from the previous month and up 5.8 percent from a year ago.
Sales outlook
Still, rising gasoline prices and model shortages stemming from the March 11 earthquake in Japan are expected to dampen sales in coming months.
Barclays analyst Brian Johnson this week cut his 2011 sales forecast by 300,000 units to 13.2 million, still among the highest estimates among analysts.
Discounts are forecast to drop 11 percent from April 2010 to $2,386 per vehicle last month, Truecar said.
“With inventory dwindling, automakers didn’t have to spend as much money to move metal,” TrueCar.com analyst Kristen Andersson said. “Incentive spending was at its lowest level since January 2006.”
J.D. Power and Associates said new-vehicle retail sales continued to perform well in the second half of April despite growing inventory concerns, specifically compact vehicle supplies.
“Increasing gas prices and shortages in vehicle inventory have yet to trump the overall recovery that has been progressing since the fall of 2010,” said Jeff Schuster, head of global forecasting at J.D. Power.
“However, looking at the remainder of the year, growing uncertainty about gas prices and stockpiles is increasing the risk that that the industry may not reach the expected 13 million-unit level for total light-vehicle sales.”
Gas prices
Average U.S. gas prices -- $3.80 a gallon -- are higher at this point in the year than they were in 2008, when a surge in fuel prices sent industry sales tumbling.
But U.S. car shoppers are responding to higher gas prices by choosing smaller vehicles and engines.
Volkswagen of America said it had its best month since November 2003 because of strong sales of the redesigned Jetta compact sedan. Reflective of a gas-conscious consumer, sales of the compact Tiguan SUV rose 48 percent to 2,791 vehicles and “high-mileage,” diesel-powered vehicles represented 23 percent of all vehicles sold in April, VW said.
Ford says nearly 50 percent of the F-150 pickups it has sold in recent weeks and months have been equipped with one of two new V-6 engines now offered. In April, V-6 equipped F-150s accounted for 50 percent of all 2011 F-150 retail sales, up from 40 percent in March.
During the first 24 days of April, retail sales of small cars represented 23.9 percent of all light vehicle sales, up from 21 percent during the same period in 2010, Ford said.
Overall, retail sales of cars accounted for 52.9 percent of industry sales, up from 51.7 percent during the first 24 days of April 2010.
Minivans and pickups lost ground industry-wide in April, Ford said.
Decent truck demand
Still, truck demand has remained resilient despite the surge in gas prices.
Sales of the redesigned Porsche Cayenne SUV have surged 141 percent this year. Land Rover sales are up 19 percent. Chrysler reported a 29 percent jump in Ram pickup sales last month, and year-to-date sales are up 36 percent to 70,419 units.
Ford sold 45,435 F-Series pickups in April, an increase of 11 percent from a year ago, and sales are up 20 percent year-to-date. Ford Expedition SUV sales rose 8 percent last month and are up 15 percent for the year.
Analysts say wealthy consumers and small business owners are behind the rise in truck and SUV sales.
“Rising gas prices are pressuring truck sales, but the impact is more manageable this time around,” Johnson said in a report Monday.
“We estimate less share loss than in 2008 for large trucks as most discretionary buyers have already moved away from the segment.”
Dealers are also bracing for a shortage of models built in Japan.
Honda on Monday became the latest Japanese automaker to warn of more inventory shortages following the March earthquake in Japan. The quake, tsunami and nuclear crisis have disrupted parts production across Japan, forcing Honda, Toyota and other automakers to curtail output.
Honda said today its U.S. sales rose 10 percent last month, and are up 17 percent year-to-date.
“While our current dealer supply of vehicles remains adequate, we know that production constraints may start to affect sales into the summer months,” John Mendel, executive vice president of sales for American Honda, said today. “We are working closely with our dealers, and together we are committed to continue our focus to support the needs of our customers.”
The inventory shortfall is expected to become more acute with smaller models such as the Honda Fit and Toyota Prius hybrid that are only assembled in Japan.
Prius demand dropped 4.3 percent last month, reflecting tightening supplies and a reduction in incentives.
The seasonally adjusted annual sales rate of 13.2 million marked the third straight month above the 13 million mark. Every automaker increased sales as the industry posted its second biggest percentage gain of the year.
South Korea’s Hyundai and Kia paced the gainers with a combined increase of 47 percent. Their three biggest Japanese rivals – Toyota, Honda and Nissan – all lost share as they battled product shortages following the March 11 earthquake. General Motors and Chrysler boosted share.
“There’s a recovery going on in the auto industry and the economy,” Ford sales analyst George Pipas said. “There are more people working today than 2 or 3 months ago, and there’s more income.”
U.S. auto sales are now up 20 percent for the year. Last month’s SAAR of 13.2 million is still well below the industry’s sales peak of more than 17 million units in 2000 and 2001 but a sign that the industry’s recovery is continuing despite rising fuel prices and mixed readings on employment growth and consumer confidence.
GM’s gain was spurred by a 50 percent jump in demand for cars including the new Chevrolet Cruze. But large pickups rose just 2 percent, and sales of some of the automaker’s biggest SUVs slumped.
Ford said sales rose 13 percent last month. At the Ford division, volume jumped 24 percent on higher sales of F-Series pickups and the new Explorer crossover. Both models offer more fuel-efficient powertrains. But at Lincoln, demand eased 1 percent, reflecting a drop in crossover and large SUV sales.
Hyundai, propelled by the new Elantra small car, said sales rose 40 percent to set an April record of 61,754 units. Hyundai said it expects its U.S. retail market share to hit a record 5.7 percent for the month.
Hyundai also said its sales to fleet customers have dropped 45 percent this year, with fleet representing 13 percent of volume year-to-date and 11 percent in April.
Nissan said higher sales of fuel-efficient models such as the Altima, Sentra, Leaf and Rogue offset a drop in truck and SUV demand. Its overall sales rose 12 percent.
But Toyota Motor Co.’s sales rose just 1 percent last month, with Lexus down 4 percent and Scion surging 60 percent.
Toyota-brand car sales dropped 2 percent, while its truck and SUV volume rose 2 percent. Bob Carter, head of Toyota’s American division, said the automaker was looking forward to “healthy inventory” despite the impact of parts shortages from Japan.
Shift underway
The shift to small cars from larger vehicles accelerated last month, as expected, automakers said.
Honda Motor Co. said demand for the sub-compact Fit rose 66 percent to an April record of 8,116 units and sales of the Insight hybrid jumped 35.4 percent to an April record of 2,644 units.
“Consumers are continuing to rethink their vehicle choice," said Don Johnson, head of GM’s U.S. sales operations. “A lot of sales continue to go into the compact car segment as well as the compact crossover segment."
Sales of the Cruze compact topped 25,000 units in April, with retail volume nearly triple the car it replaced, the Cobalt, from a year earlier.
GM said Chevrolet, GMC and Cadillac each set April total and retail sales records for crossover sales, led by a 49-percent increase in combined retail sales of the Chevy Equinox, GMC Terrain and Cadillac SRX.
But demand for the Chevrolet Suburban SUV dropped 31 percent last month. Chevy Tahoe sales fell 16 percent.
GM said its incentives per vehicle dropped by about $400 from March to April, without providing specifics. Truecar.com, an online shopping site, estimated GM’s incentives averaged $3,524 last month, up about 6.3 percent from the previous month and up 5.8 percent from a year ago.
Sales outlook
Still, rising gasoline prices and model shortages stemming from the March 11 earthquake in Japan are expected to dampen sales in coming months.
Barclays analyst Brian Johnson this week cut his 2011 sales forecast by 300,000 units to 13.2 million, still among the highest estimates among analysts.
Discounts are forecast to drop 11 percent from April 2010 to $2,386 per vehicle last month, Truecar said.
“With inventory dwindling, automakers didn’t have to spend as much money to move metal,” TrueCar.com analyst Kristen Andersson said. “Incentive spending was at its lowest level since January 2006.”
J.D. Power and Associates said new-vehicle retail sales continued to perform well in the second half of April despite growing inventory concerns, specifically compact vehicle supplies.
“Increasing gas prices and shortages in vehicle inventory have yet to trump the overall recovery that has been progressing since the fall of 2010,” said Jeff Schuster, head of global forecasting at J.D. Power.
“However, looking at the remainder of the year, growing uncertainty about gas prices and stockpiles is increasing the risk that that the industry may not reach the expected 13 million-unit level for total light-vehicle sales.”
Gas prices
Average U.S. gas prices -- $3.80 a gallon -- are higher at this point in the year than they were in 2008, when a surge in fuel prices sent industry sales tumbling.
But U.S. car shoppers are responding to higher gas prices by choosing smaller vehicles and engines.
Volkswagen of America said it had its best month since November 2003 because of strong sales of the redesigned Jetta compact sedan. Reflective of a gas-conscious consumer, sales of the compact Tiguan SUV rose 48 percent to 2,791 vehicles and “high-mileage,” diesel-powered vehicles represented 23 percent of all vehicles sold in April, VW said.
Ford says nearly 50 percent of the F-150 pickups it has sold in recent weeks and months have been equipped with one of two new V-6 engines now offered. In April, V-6 equipped F-150s accounted for 50 percent of all 2011 F-150 retail sales, up from 40 percent in March.
During the first 24 days of April, retail sales of small cars represented 23.9 percent of all light vehicle sales, up from 21 percent during the same period in 2010, Ford said.
Overall, retail sales of cars accounted for 52.9 percent of industry sales, up from 51.7 percent during the first 24 days of April 2010.
Minivans and pickups lost ground industry-wide in April, Ford said.
Decent truck demand
Still, truck demand has remained resilient despite the surge in gas prices.
Sales of the redesigned Porsche Cayenne SUV have surged 141 percent this year. Land Rover sales are up 19 percent. Chrysler reported a 29 percent jump in Ram pickup sales last month, and year-to-date sales are up 36 percent to 70,419 units.
Ford sold 45,435 F-Series pickups in April, an increase of 11 percent from a year ago, and sales are up 20 percent year-to-date. Ford Expedition SUV sales rose 8 percent last month and are up 15 percent for the year.
Analysts say wealthy consumers and small business owners are behind the rise in truck and SUV sales.
“Rising gas prices are pressuring truck sales, but the impact is more manageable this time around,” Johnson said in a report Monday.
“We estimate less share loss than in 2008 for large trucks as most discretionary buyers have already moved away from the segment.”
Dealers are also bracing for a shortage of models built in Japan.
Honda on Monday became the latest Japanese automaker to warn of more inventory shortages following the March earthquake in Japan. The quake, tsunami and nuclear crisis have disrupted parts production across Japan, forcing Honda, Toyota and other automakers to curtail output.
Honda said today its U.S. sales rose 10 percent last month, and are up 17 percent year-to-date.
“While our current dealer supply of vehicles remains adequate, we know that production constraints may start to affect sales into the summer months,” John Mendel, executive vice president of sales for American Honda, said today. “We are working closely with our dealers, and together we are committed to continue our focus to support the needs of our customers.”
The inventory shortfall is expected to become more acute with smaller models such as the Honda Fit and Toyota Prius hybrid that are only assembled in Japan.
Prius demand dropped 4.3 percent last month, reflecting tightening supplies and a reduction in incentives.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
1988 Chevy S-10 Oil Runs Up The Dipstick
when driving 55mph or higher my oil pressure goes to 60-80
when i get home oil has ran all the way up my dipstick. I have checked for water in it possibly and havent noticed it milky looking or anything. I also replaced pcv valve. What else could be checked or needs to be done to find out why my oil keeps going up my dipstick? I read something in a haynes manual for this, and it says something about a charcoal canister needing to be cleaned. would that cause my oil to come out of the dipstick?
Response:
It could be, the canister is located on the radiator core support, has 3 vaccuum lines on the top, and a fibre filter on the bottem which is open, and approximately 6 inch diameter. Note 1 of the vaccuum lines goes to the PCV valve and follow your emmission diagram on the core support. But, depending on the mileage and driving habits, I suspect piston blow by. Run a compression check both wet and dry. Check the color of the spark plug electrode. And finally, do a vaccuum check. Have you ever noticed or wondered why Preformance vechicles have taller or multi vented valve covers? It's so the crankcase can breathe at higher RPM's. They also have a larger oil pan that holds as much as twice as normal.If the crankcase can't breathe then it fills with gases and builds pressue. That pressure goes the path of the least resistance. In some cases the dip stick tube, others, seals and gaskets.
when i get home oil has ran all the way up my dipstick. I have checked for water in it possibly and havent noticed it milky looking or anything. I also replaced pcv valve. What else could be checked or needs to be done to find out why my oil keeps going up my dipstick? I read something in a haynes manual for this, and it says something about a charcoal canister needing to be cleaned. would that cause my oil to come out of the dipstick?
Response:
It could be, the canister is located on the radiator core support, has 3 vaccuum lines on the top, and a fibre filter on the bottem which is open, and approximately 6 inch diameter. Note 1 of the vaccuum lines goes to the PCV valve and follow your emmission diagram on the core support. But, depending on the mileage and driving habits, I suspect piston blow by. Run a compression check both wet and dry. Check the color of the spark plug electrode. And finally, do a vaccuum check. Have you ever noticed or wondered why Preformance vechicles have taller or multi vented valve covers? It's so the crankcase can breathe at higher RPM's. They also have a larger oil pan that holds as much as twice as normal.If the crankcase can't breathe then it fills with gases and builds pressue. That pressure goes the path of the least resistance. In some cases the dip stick tube, others, seals and gaskets.
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Ford: Optional EcoBoost V-6 engine proves popular with F-150 buyers
DETROIT -- Sales of Ford F-150 pickups with the optional EcoBoost 3.5-liter V-6 engine have surpassed company estimates, with some dealers reporting robust demand as gasoline prices rise.
"We had a sales forecast but it has jumped up a little faster than we thought," said Marc Lapine, consumer marketing manager for Ford Motor Co.
Credit the increase to rising fuel prices. The EcoBoost V-6 is one of Ford's newest engines, offering horsepower and torque comparable to a V-8 and the fuel economy of a V-6.
The price of the optional EcoBoost engine ranges from $750 to $1,750 depending on the F-150 model. Production began in January. So far this month, F-150s with the engine option account for 36 percent of F-150 sales and 40 percent of the pickup's orders, Lapine said.
There is a 13-day supply of F-150s with the option, he said.
Not staying put
"We thought there would be a little more time between the early adopters and the other people who said, 'Hey, now I am ready to buy it,' " Lapine said. "It is not staying put very long."
The EcoBoost engine increases fuel economy up to 20 percent and cuts carbon dioxide emissions up to 15 percent compared with comparable V-8s, the automaker said.
With average U.S. gasoline prices near $4 a gallon, consumers are looking at smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles.
Wayne Seidel, general manager of Hiller Ford in Franklin, Wis., said the response to the EcoBoost F-150 has been "awesome."
"As soon as this fuel thing started, probably two months ago, all of a sudden people are coming in, asking, 'Do you have an EcoBoost?' I've sold every one that I can get my hands on," Seidel said.
Beyond expectations
Ford told dealers that demand for the EcoBoost V-6 would evolve slowly because owners of V-8-powered pickups would be reluctant to buy trucks with smaller engines.
"The reception of the truck has been beyond our expectations," Seidel said.
Ford touts the EcoBoost V-6 as having the power and torque of a V-8. In addition to turbocharging with direct injection, EcoBoost technology includes variable valve timing. The engine produces 365 hp and 420 pounds-feet of torque. It is rated at 16 mpg city/22 mpg highway. With EcoBoost, the pickup can tow up to 11,300 pounds.
By comparison, Ford's base two-wheel-drive F-150 has a 302-hp 3.7-liter V-6 that produces 278 pounds-feet of torque. The pickup is rated at 17 mpg city/23 mpg highway and it can tow up to 6,100 pounds.
Additionally, Ford offers a 360-hp 5.0-liter V-8 with 380 pounds-feet of torque, rated at 15 mpg city/21 mpg highway. It can tow up to 10,000 pounds.
Ford's 411-hp 6.2-liter V-8 produces 434 pounds-feet of torque and is rated at 13 mpg city/18 mpg highway. It can tow up to 11,300 pounds.
During a telephone interview, Mitchell Dale,dealer principal of McRee Ford in Dickinson, Texas, said the response to the V-6 EcoBoost option has been "terrific."
Dale has delivered about 27 F-150s with the option.
"People are amazed at the power," Dale said. He said several customers traded in diesel-powered Super Duty pickups -- used mainly for transportation instead of towing -- for the F-150 EcoBoost. They are pleased with the fuel economy and the power, he said.
Marketing push
Last September Ford dealers received demonstration vehicles to familiarize owners of V-8-powered pickups with the new V-6 technology.
Additionally, Ford has used Facebook and other social media to tout the technology.
"We did a good job getting the word out and helping core customers understand EcoBoost technology and how it can be a durable, reliable alternative to a V-8," Lapine said.
Meanwhile, Jim Scott, co-owner of Jarrett Scott Ford in Plant City, Fla., said sales of F-150s with EcoBoost V-6s "are not humongous."
Scott blamed higher fuel prices for an overall decrease in his pickup sales.
But he added: "It's an awesome engine."
"We had a sales forecast but it has jumped up a little faster than we thought," said Marc Lapine, consumer marketing manager for Ford Motor Co.
Credit the increase to rising fuel prices. The EcoBoost V-6 is one of Ford's newest engines, offering horsepower and torque comparable to a V-8 and the fuel economy of a V-6.
The price of the optional EcoBoost engine ranges from $750 to $1,750 depending on the F-150 model. Production began in January. So far this month, F-150s with the engine option account for 36 percent of F-150 sales and 40 percent of the pickup's orders, Lapine said.
There is a 13-day supply of F-150s with the option, he said.
Not staying put
"We thought there would be a little more time between the early adopters and the other people who said, 'Hey, now I am ready to buy it,' " Lapine said. "It is not staying put very long."
The EcoBoost engine increases fuel economy up to 20 percent and cuts carbon dioxide emissions up to 15 percent compared with comparable V-8s, the automaker said.
With average U.S. gasoline prices near $4 a gallon, consumers are looking at smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles.
Wayne Seidel, general manager of Hiller Ford in Franklin, Wis., said the response to the EcoBoost F-150 has been "awesome."
"As soon as this fuel thing started, probably two months ago, all of a sudden people are coming in, asking, 'Do you have an EcoBoost?' I've sold every one that I can get my hands on," Seidel said.
Beyond expectations
Ford told dealers that demand for the EcoBoost V-6 would evolve slowly because owners of V-8-powered pickups would be reluctant to buy trucks with smaller engines.
"The reception of the truck has been beyond our expectations," Seidel said.
Ford touts the EcoBoost V-6 as having the power and torque of a V-8. In addition to turbocharging with direct injection, EcoBoost technology includes variable valve timing. The engine produces 365 hp and 420 pounds-feet of torque. It is rated at 16 mpg city/22 mpg highway. With EcoBoost, the pickup can tow up to 11,300 pounds.
By comparison, Ford's base two-wheel-drive F-150 has a 302-hp 3.7-liter V-6 that produces 278 pounds-feet of torque. The pickup is rated at 17 mpg city/23 mpg highway and it can tow up to 6,100 pounds.
Additionally, Ford offers a 360-hp 5.0-liter V-8 with 380 pounds-feet of torque, rated at 15 mpg city/21 mpg highway. It can tow up to 10,000 pounds.
Ford's 411-hp 6.2-liter V-8 produces 434 pounds-feet of torque and is rated at 13 mpg city/18 mpg highway. It can tow up to 11,300 pounds.
During a telephone interview, Mitchell Dale,dealer principal of McRee Ford in Dickinson, Texas, said the response to the V-6 EcoBoost option has been "terrific."
Dale has delivered about 27 F-150s with the option.
"People are amazed at the power," Dale said. He said several customers traded in diesel-powered Super Duty pickups -- used mainly for transportation instead of towing -- for the F-150 EcoBoost. They are pleased with the fuel economy and the power, he said.
Marketing push
Last September Ford dealers received demonstration vehicles to familiarize owners of V-8-powered pickups with the new V-6 technology.
Additionally, Ford has used Facebook and other social media to tout the technology.
"We did a good job getting the word out and helping core customers understand EcoBoost technology and how it can be a durable, reliable alternative to a V-8," Lapine said.
Meanwhile, Jim Scott, co-owner of Jarrett Scott Ford in Plant City, Fla., said sales of F-150s with EcoBoost V-6s "are not humongous."
Scott blamed higher fuel prices for an overall decrease in his pickup sales.
But he added: "It's an awesome engine."
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)