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General Motors and Ford have made big strides forward selling subcompact and compact cars, segments dominated for many years by Japanese competitors. The Chevrolet Cruze just beat out the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry to lead the compact category, but the Detroit automakers will face renewed competition in months ahead.
Used Prius Appreciates Rather Than Depreciates
Earl Stewart of Earl Stewart Toyota, North Palm Beach, FL, recently repurchased a 2010 Toyota Prius from a customer for more than they originally paid. Purchased used for $20,500, the owners drove it 26,000 miles before selling back to the dealer for $22,000. The supply level for Prius models has bounced in the 10-day range and possibly as low as 4 days. Dealers normally operate with a 60-90 day inventory.
Automakers Tell House EPA Should Not Raise Gasoline Ethanol Ratio to 15%
Most of the gasoline sold in the US contains a blend of 10% ethanol. The Environmental Protection Agency has been moving forward on increasing that amount to 15% blend for light-duty passenger vehicles 2001 model year and older. Twelve automakers have sent letters protesting the decision to Rep. James Sensenbrenner (R-Wis.), who?s introduced legislation blocking the EPA from allowing E15.
Bill Would Make Distracted Driving a Federal Offense
A bill introduced by Rep. Carolyn McCarthy (D-NY) would make distracted driving a federal offense. Currently cell phone use and other technology use while driving is being covered by the states with varying regulations. The McCarthy legislation would make distracted driving laws the same in all 50 states.
‘Check Engine’ Light Repairs Can be Costly, or Not
CarMD.com Corp. analyzed more than 80,000 repairs involving the "check engine" light and released those results to provide consumers with a better understanding of common repairs and costs. The Fountain Valley, CA-based company stresses the importance of regularly scheduled maintenance and taking care of small repairs early to avoid catastrophic results.
