Mc Eleney Auto Blog

McEleney Toyota Announces Immediate Recall Repair

2010-03-31T14:38:00.000-07:00

Contact: Greg Sullivan
Phone: 563-244-1256
Email: Greg.Sullivan@McEleney.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

McELENEY TOYOTA ANNOUNCES IMMEDIATE RECALL REPAIR

McEleney can complete recall repairs without waiting and without appointment today

While other area Toyota service facilities have reported one to two week delays in scheduling Toyota recall repairs, McEleney Toyota in Clinton announces immediate recall repair.
This program allows the thousands of Toyota owners in Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois to stop into McEleney’s modern and clean Toyota service department without an appointment and have the repair performed on the spot.

In addition to the no waiting, no appointment needed policy McEleney Toyota is washing all customer vehicles affected by these recalls. They are also performing a free courtesy inspection as part of this program. McEleney Toyota General Manager, Mark Chasey commented that, “We feel it is important to take care of our customer the right way, right away. We also offer customers free shuttle service and early morning / late night drop off for their convenience.” McEleney Toyota has added an additional shift to cover Saturday morning recall repairs.
For additional details visit McEleney.com or stop by during our hours. They are as follows: Monday through Friday 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM and 8 AM to Noon on Saturday. McEleney Toyota has served our community for over 95 years – we look forward to seeing you soon.

A Toyota-trained technician
Repairs a Toyota Avalon
Toyota Service Advisor
Greg Sullivan

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If you’d like more information about this topic, or to schedule an interview with Greg Sullivan, please call 563-244-1256 or Email him at greg.sullivan@mceleney.com

2010 Acadia Introduction

2010-02-08T18:43:00.000-08:00

A brief introduction of the 2010 GMC Acadia. Available now at McEleney GMC!

Call
Click
Come In

McEleney Toyota Congratulates Paul Roth

2010-02-05T14:56:00.000-08:00

Please click the image below to read Paul's amazing story published in the January/February Toyota Today Magazine. Congratulations Paul from your friends at McEleney Toyota!

2010-01-28T14:27:00.000-08:00

A beautiful night for car buying at McEleney's!

"GM Did Good"

2010-01-22T12:09:00.000-08:00

“GM Did Good”

By Deborah Kyles-Williams, Quality Systems manager

This past weekend I was driving one of GM Powertrain Toledo’s test vehicles – 2010 Chevrolet Camaro that is HOT! It is dark blue with white racing stripes on the hood. You can imagine the number of looks this car attracted.

Saturday morning before 9 a.m., I stopped into the Arborland Starbucks off US 23 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. There was a gentleman in line directly in front of me that seemed to know all of the Starbucks personnel. I didn’t pay attention to the person then, but when I came out of the Starbucks, he was standing beside the Camaro. I asked him if he liked the vehicle and he emphatically stated “yes.”

The gentleman and I started talking about vehicle response times, design and general car talk for about ten minutes. He stated he was with the competition and gestured toward a red Ford pick-up beside the Camaro. I told him I did not
view Ford as the competition as we are all in the same boat - trying to stay solvent in this economy. I made a couple of statements concerning Ford’s positive financial status and said I hoped both Ford and GM continued to improve.
The gentleman leaned into the Camaro and I asked if he would like to sit in it. He looked surprised and said “really?” I replied “sure” and offered to hold his coffee. He got into the vehicle and we talked about what was really working and he stated the only thing he did not like was the blank space on the dash and the type of plastic used (he thought a softer plastic would have looked better).

The gentleman got out of the vehicle and asked me my name. I introduced myself, stated I worked at the Toledo Transmission plant as Quality Systems manager and was proud to say, Toledo produces the transmission for the Camaro along with launching a front-wheel-drive. The gentleman said “I know.” We shook hands as I asked him his name, to which he replied, “Bill Ford.” I was visibly taken aback when I asked “The Bill Ford?” He smiled and answered “yes.”

Bill Ford Jr. and I talked another five minutes. When parting he stated “I hate to say this, but you guys (GM) did good!”
Remember to use all the tools available to you as you perform your jobs. We at Toledo are integral in GM’s success by ensuring defect free transmissions that are in GM vehicles everyone admires and wants to drive – even Bill Ford Jr.

New Car Smell

2009-12-21T16:18:00.001-08:00

Have a look at all the new cars we just rolled into the GM showroom today!

http://picasaweb.google.com/drew.mceleney/HappyHolidays_MAC_12_21_09?authkey=Gv1sRgCJmks7LTvdupugE#5417817492960712050

Toyota Plans a Plug-In Hybrid Prius by 2011

2009-12-17T12:56:00.000-08:00

It's more great news from our innovative partner - Toyota. They have for years been the leader in hybrid technology including battery technology. Toyota is taking that know how and using it to build a plug in version of the wildly popular Prius by 2011.

You can read more here.

You can see over 55 new Toyotas or over 60 new GM or great pre-owned vehicles over at McEleney Autocenter.

Also find us on facebook at www.facebook.com/mceleneyautocenter

Genesis Teardown Video

2009-12-09T12:17:00.000-08:00

I just saw this time-lapse video of a Hyundai Genesis being disassembled. I can't seem to stop watching it!

http://www.mceleney.com
http://www.facebook.com/mceleneyautocenter
http://www.chevrolet.com
http://www.toyota.com

10 Tips to Winterize Your Car

2009-12-07T07:23:00.000-08:00

Remember that McEleney Autocenter has a service department with factory-trained technicians ready to help you get your car or truck ready for winter! Come see us today!

These tips come courtesy of msnbc.com.

Remember you can stop by our service department with your car or truck (any make and model) for help with your winterization.

10 simple ways to get your car ready for winter

If the weather outside is frightful, is your auto ready?

	Tip No. 5: Check your tire pressure. Your tires must be properly inflated to ensure you’ll have the best possible traction as you drive along – and traction is often severely jeopardized in wet, snowy or icy conditions.

Slow down and don't make any sudden moves on ice and snow. Never trust your brakes, slow down way before you have to stop. Leave a little more room between yourself and the vehicle in front of you.

By Laura T. Coffey

msnbc.com contributor

updated 6:27 p.m. CT, Mon., Jan. 15, 2007

Laura T. Coffey

• Profile

• E-mail

OK, so if you live in Florida or Southern California, you may not need to read this column.

But if you live in a cold-weather state, or perhaps if you are planning to visit loved ones in a colder clime over the winter holidays, the following tips literally could be life-saving!

And even if you’ve been living in Alaska for many years now, these tips can serve as handy reminders of simple steps you can take to stay safe and keep your vehicle in good working order this winter.

1. Get the right kind of oil change. Are you approaching the time for a 30,000-mile full service for your vehicle? If so, don’t procrastinate! Among other things, the service should include an oil change, and the oil used should have the right viscosity, or thickness, for your vehicle at this time of year. Oil tends to thicken as it gets colder, and if it’s too thick it won’t do the best job of keeping your engine lubricated. Check your owner’s manual for guidance about which oil to use in different climates and temperatures.

2. Make sure you can see. When’s the last time you replaced your windshield wiper blades? They usually work effectively for about one year, so be sure to invest in some new ones if you’re due. Here’s another important step to take before you find yourself struggling to see in a blinding storm: Fill up your windshield washer reservoir with windshield washer fluid. (Plain water won’t do the trick at this time of year because it freezes.) Also check to see that your heater and defroster are working properly so you can keep the windshield nice and clear.

3. Give your battery a little TLC. This is an ideal time of year to make sure your battery’s posts and connections are corrosion-free and that your battery has all the water it needs. If your battery is more than three years old, have a certified repair shop test its ability to hold a charge. Granted, you might be able to find a Good Samaritan to help you jump-start your vehicle in the middle of a blizzard — but wouldn’t you rather avoid such a scenario altogether?

4. Examine your belts and hoses. When you have that full service done on your vehicle, make sure the belts and hoses get checked for wear and tear — even if you’re driving a modern car. Cold weather can do a number on belts and hoses, so they deserve attention.

5. Check your tire pressure. Your tires must be properly inflated to ensure you’ll have the best possible traction as you drive along — and traction is often severely jeopardized in wet, snowy or icy conditions. The air pressure in your tires has likely dropped as the weather has gotten colder, so it’s important to see where things stand now. (You can generally expect that you’ll lose 1 pound per square inch whenever the temperature drops by 10 degrees Fahrenheit.) Again, your trusty owner’s manual will tell you what your target tire pressure should be.

6. Think about switching to snow tires. Do you live in a hilly place that gets its fair share of snow? Then you might want to improve traction even more by investing in winter tires and using them over the next few months instead of your usual all-season tires. When shopping around for snow tires, ask about all the fees that might come into play, such as fees for mounting and balancing. You can accomplish this easily and make accurate cost comparisons by asking each store for the “out the door charge.”

7. Do you have four-wheel drive? If so, it’s important to check the status of your four-wheel-drive system and be sure it’s working correctly — especially because most drivers don’t use their 4WD systems in the pleasant summer months. Be sure that the system engages and disengages easily, and that all drivers in your household know how and when to activate the system.

8. Get the antifreeze mixture just right. Aim for having a 50-50 mix of antifreeze (coolant) and water inside your radiator. This will prevent the mixture from freezing even at ridiculously cold temperatures. It’s easy to check the status of the mixture with an inexpensive antifreeze tester, which you can pick up at any auto parts store. If the mixture is off, your cooling system should be drained and refilled or flushed. Be sure you’re equipped to dispose of your old antifreeze properly if you do this job yourself. It can’t just be poured down the drain.

9. Prepare an emergency kit. Store this stuff in your trunk during the winter months, especially if a road trip is in your future:

a blanket
extra boots and gloves
an extra set of warm clothes
extra water and food, including hard candies
an ice scraper
a small shovel
a flashlight
windshield washer fluid
windshield wipers
flares
jumper cables
a tool kit
tire chains
a tire gauge
a spare tire with air in it
tire-changing equipment
a first-aid kit
paper towels
a bag of abrasive material such as sand, salt or non-clumping kitty litter, which can provide additional traction if a tire gets stuck in snow.
Also, keep the gas tank as full as you can to prevent the gas lines from freezing.

10. Know what to do if you get stranded. Don’t wander away from your car unless you’re completely sure about where you are and how far away help is. Light two flares and situate them at each end of your vehicle to call attention to your plight. Put on the extra clothes and use the blanket to stay warm. If you have enough gas in the tank, run the engine and heater for about 10 minutes for each hour you’re waiting for help. Leave at least one window open a little bit so that snow and ice don’t seal the car shut. Suck on a hard candy to prevent your mouth from getting too dry.

Sources:

McEleney Autocenter

Cash for Clunkers WInds Down

2009-08-20T10:14:00.000-07:00

A look back at a month supply of clunkers.

Five clunkers met their match, were disabled and towed away. Therefore they do not appear in these photos.

More From the Clunker Front

2009-08-11T08:30:00.000-07:00

Uncle Sam's rebates
Consumers are snapping up new vehicles with cash for clunkers. Here's a statistical roundup of statistics released by the government on Wednesday, Aug. 5.

-- Transactions submitted as of Aug. 5: 184,304; value: $775.2 million

-- Top 10 new vehicles purchased
1. Toyota Corolla
2. Ford Focus
3. Honda Civic
4. Toyota Prius
5. Toyota Camry
6. Hyundai Elantra
7. Ford Escape
8. Dodge Caliber
9. Honda Fit
10. Chevrolet Cobalt

-- Top 5 manufacturers of new purchases
1. General Motors: 18.7%
2. Toyota: 17.9%
3. Ford: 16.0%
4. Honda: 11.6%
5. Chrysler: 10.6%

-- Top 10 trade-ins
1. Ford Explorer (4wd)
2. Ford F-150 pickup (2wd)
3. Jeep Grand Cherokee (4wd)
4. Jeep Cherokee (4wd)
5. Dodge Caravan/Grand Caravan (2wd)
6. Ford Explorer (2wd)
7. Chevrolet Blazer (4wd)
8. Ford F-150 pickup (4wd)
9. Chevrolet C1500 pickup (2wd)
10. Ford Windstar (fwd)

-- The government says the program has exceeded expectations in removing gas-guzzling vehicles from the road.
Average mileage mpg of purchases: 25.3
Average mileage mpg of trade-ins: 15.8

-- Top 5 states by vouchers requested:
1. Michigan: $44.4 million
2. California: $39.9 million
3. Ohio: $37.7 million
4. Texas: $35.0 million
5. Illinois: $33.7 million

Source: U.S. Department of Transportation

20 Cash for Clunkers Down ... Many More to Go

2009-07-28T07:34:00.000-07:00

Not only is the governments CARS program (aka Cash-for-Clunkers) up and running, it now has the official rules written and posted. The rule is a short 136 page document that we have read and re-read at our dealerships.

In any case we have now had 20 customers take advantage of the program and we expect many more to do so over the next several weeks. We have completed the registration process with the NHTSA who is administering the program and are all ready to go.

If you have questions about the program head over to CARS.gov or FuelEconomy.gov. If you'd like to check out our new inventory in Clinton, IA head over here. If you'd like to check out our new inventory in Iowa City, IA, head over here.

Also - both dealership web sites are due for a facelift in the next two weeks so stay tuned!

Waiting is the hardest part

2009-07-23T09:23:00.000-07:00

Tom Petty (and the Heartbreakers) may have said it best in their song "Waiting is the hardest part." I'm not sure if they were talking about the government's new Car Allowance Rebate System though...

Tomorrow the rules for the CARS program - aka cash-for-clunkers or cash-for-guzzlers - are to be finalized. McEleney Autoplex has 10 cars eligible for the program that will be delivered tomorrow. Our sister store, McEleney Autocenter, has 7 at last count.

To be honest the response to this new government program has been stronger than we first thought. We are looking forward to selling several more cars that qualify before that $1 Billion pool of cash runs out.

Here is an example of what one of our customers managed via the program...

Sale Price of Hyundai Accent : $13,500
Rebates (good to July 31): $1,500
Clunker Allowance: $4,500
New Price Only: $7,500

We are talking $7,500 for a brand new car with air and a radio AND a 5 year / 60,000 mile bumper to bumper warranty plus a 10 year / 100,000 mile powertrain warranty.

If you think you may be in a similar position please call us to see if your car qualifies!

McEleney Autoplex in Iowa City, IA
or
McEleney Autocenter in Clinton, IA

Pre-Production Chevy Volt - An Introduction

2009-07-03T19:10:00.000-07:00

I just found a GM video of the pre-production Chevy Volt over at their FastLane Blog.

The car looks very cool. I noticed the steering wheel looks an awful lot like the wheel in the 2010 Camaro and 2010 Equinox. Well done Chevy!

0% for 72 Monts Just Announced!

2009-07-01T21:56:00.000-07:00

Now available at both McEleney Autoplex in Iowa City and McEleney Autocenter in Clinton - 0% Financing for up to 72 Months on all 1/2 ton Silverado and Impala! There's also 0% for up to 60 months on several other Chevys.

Sale ends MONDAY so stop in soon.

2009-06-23T13:56:00.000-07:00

McEleney Autoplex is hosting a blood drive for the Mississippi Valley Blood Center on Monday, July 6 from 1:30 PM to 5:30 PM.

Space is limited so contact Patrick Eads today at patrick.eads@mceleneyautoplex.com today. Just one blood donation can save up to THREE lives! Do your part and sign up today - the cookies and juice are on us!

Attack of the Camaros!

2009-06-16T20:01:00.000-07:00

One, two, three, four, five, SIX 2010 Camaros have arrived between our two locations - McEleney Autocenter and McEleney Autoplex.

Our latest beauty is a 2SS Camaro with the RS package. Its silver and the black racing stripes are being put on as I type. If you are keeping track, Iowa City has sold 2 rally yellow Camaro both with racing stripes in addition to the 2SS that got dropped off today.

The 2SS sports the 6.2L V8 engine that produces 420 HP with the 6 speed automatic and 426 HP with the available 6 speed manual. 420 horses and 25 MPG highway should put a smile on your face! Top it off with Pirelli tires and Brembo brakes and you have one bad machine. It's certainly going to be the star (again) of the new Transformers movie when it comes out.

I am too young to have remembered the glory days of the Camaro in the late 1960s and I must say I was not a huge fan of the last round of Camaro but this, well, speaks to me. In my opinion this is the coolest vehicle we have sold at our dealerships since I was born in 1980.

Please stop by either of our dealerships to get a first hand look yourself ASAP before they get delivered!

John McEleney - US Senate testimony videos

2009-06-07T17:36:00.000-07:00

See below for some video of our dealer - John McEleney - as he testified before the US Senate Commerce Committee last week.

McEleney discussed terminated Chrysler dealers and GM dealers who were to be 'wound down' by October of 2010. While both of the McEleney Auto Group's dealerships (McEleney Autocenter in Clinton, IA and McEleney Autoplex in Iowa City, IA) will be part of the 'new GM' he spoke as NADA Chairman representing the interests of the organizations 19,000+ dealer members.

http://video.aol.com/video-detail/cnbccom-cnbccom-john-mceleneys-statement/3381724

Watch the full video (3+ hours) below.

Congratulations to Dino and Kim Bruce - Owners of our first 2010 Camaro!

2009-05-21T07:55:00.000-07:00

In true Bumblebee fashion Dino and Kim Bruce of Wellman recently purchased our first 2010 Camaro.

The couple bought a 2LT with the V6 motor and sunroof and chose the black racing strips for the hood and trunk lid.

Our dealer / owner, John McEleney, on CNBC this morning

2009-05-13T14:26:00.000-07:00

Please have a quick look at the 6 minute clip below. It's our dealer, John McEleney, making the case for the American Car Dealer in his role as National Auto Dealer Association Chairman.

John has been a dealer for more than 35 years and has served as both Chairman of the Iowa Auto Dealers Association (IADA) and currently chairs the National Auto Dealers Association.

The original store - McEleney Autocenter - has been in business since 1914. Our Chevy, Cadillac, Hyundai store in Iowa City - McEleney Autoplex - has been in business since the early 1980s.

Quick Hits

2009-04-03T13:19:00.000-07:00

Best New Cars for the Potentially Unemployed
If you're going through tough times but still need to buy a new car, there are programs on the market from three automakers that could help mitigate the risk of such a purchase. Whether you choose the Hyundai Assurance Plus, Ford Advantage Plan, or GM Total Confidence, these programs were created to stimulate the economy and the bottom line for the manufacturers. The L.A. Times took a look at some of the top-rated cars that would best take advantage of these three programs. The result is a list of 10 vehicles that could serve you well as you drive to interviews. One of the best rated cars is the Hyundai Elantra. With a Consumer Reports score of 82, the Elantra provides a lot of bang for just a few bucks. Its base MSRP price ranges from $14,120 - $18,600. Another option is the Hyundai Accent, whose excellent ride, controls, and turning radius are a bargain at under $10,000.

Hyundai Plans American Plug-In for 2012
Hyundai will launch its first plug-in hybrid in the United States in late 2012. According to Automotive News, the vehicle will be based on the four-door Blue-Will sports car concept on display now at the Seoul auto show. Yang Woong-chul, president of Hyundai-Kia Motors' R&D division, said Hyundai's plug-in will target the upcoming Chevrolet Volt and Toyota Prius plug-ins. "We want to be the world leader in fuel economy and alternative fuels," he said. The Blue-Will sits on a 106-inch wheelbase. It is powered by a 1.6-liter gasoline direct-injection engine teamed with a 100-kilowatt electric motor. Hyundai has developed its own lithium ion battery. "Almost every part on this car has been developed in-house," Yang said. "That will make it possible to make this vehicle affordable." Yang said the Blue-Will can travel about 38 miles on electricity only. Hyundai claims a fuel economy rating of 106 mpg in plug-in mode and up to 55 mpg in hybrid-electric mode. The concept car features a panoramic glass roof with solar cells for recharging.

Toyota to Slash New Prius Price to Match Honda Insight
Toyota Motor Corp. is going for the jugular with its upgraded Prius, setting a 2.05 million yen starting price ($20,750) in Japan that is on par with the newly released Honda Insight. Toyota notified Japanese dealers of the cutthroat pricing policy for its redesigned 1.8-liter gasoline-electric hybrid on March 25. According to Automotive News, the move stokes a high-stakes price war between the Prius and the Honda Insight, which went on sale in the United States in March starting at $20,470, including delivery. The third-generation Prius goes on sale next month and had been expected to start around $24,000. Click here for a picture. Bringing the starting price down to Insight levels will steal Honda's thunder as purveyor of world's first affordable hybrid vehicle. Toyota's pricing strategy for the Prius in the United States is still unclear. But if Japan is any guide, it will be very aggressive. In Japan, a bottom-rung Prius at 2.05 million yen ($20,750) would cost the same as a middle-trim Insight. Toyota might use the price to lure buyers and switch them to higher grades.

* Stories from American International Auto Dealers recent report

AWD versus 4WD ... what's the difference?

2009-02-23T10:00:00.000-08:00

This post will hopefully shed light on a question I get asked about once per week during the winter months as an auto sales consultant: "What's the difference between All Wheel Drive (AWD) and 4 Wheel Drive (4WD) anyway?"

I'm going to borrow from a post over at consumerguideauto.com here and agree there are really THREE options: Part time 4WD, Full time 4WD, and All Wheel Drive.

Part Time 4WD

This is the most basic 4WD system and is what you will think of when you think of older pickups, Jeeps, and SUVs. There's either a lever on the floor of the vehicle or a push button on the dash allowing drivers to select either "2WD" or "4WD High" or "4WD Low." Everyday driving on dry roads calls for 2WD while driving through snow, mud or rain would call for 4WD High. 4WD Low is reserved for extreme conditions where you first need to stop to engage the system.

Full Time 4WD

Most of the more recent pickups and truck-based SUVs have a version of the Full Time 4WD system. You options are the same as part time but many systems also have the ability to switch into an "Auto" mode that lets your transfer case decide when to lock you into 4WD or leave you in 2WD.

All Wheel Drive

You see All Wheel Drive cropping up all over the Crossover, Car, and even minivan segments. There is typically no selector to tell an AWD system to go to 2WD or to 4WD - the computer senses when you need it and adjusts accordingly. There are some vehicles like the Hyundai Santa Fe and Veracruz that will allow you to lock into AWD. This is a helpful feature if you are towing a boat or know you will need all 4 wheels for another task.

Tradeoffs

Generally a 4WD or AWD system is more expensive than a 2WD option. Since 4WD and AWD add weight to your vehicle it's also usually less fuel efficient but not drastically so. The advantage, of course, is that with 4WD or AWD you can get through the snow, rain, or muck better than with a 2WD system.

As for the new fleet of Crossover Vehicles (think Hyundai Tucson, Santa Fe, and Veracruz or Chevy Equinox or Traverse) 2WD means FRONT wheel drive which is far better than the rear wheel drive options in SUVs of yesteryear.

40 Miles. No Gas.

2009-02-11T10:12:00.000-08:00

If you have been living under a rock for the past few years you may not have heard of The General's (a.k.a. GM) revolutionary new Electric Vehicle - the Chevy Volt. There are some undeniable facts about the Volt I'd like to share:
1. The first generation Volt will be able to travel up to 40 miles using no gas, just power from it's battery system.
2. This vehicle is more advanced than any other manufacturer's Plug-In Hybrid. GM may have been late to the game on Gas / Electric vehicles but they lead the pack in plug in technology.
3. The Volt is actually ahead of schedule to be in showrooms before the end of 2010.

But there were some additional announcements around the Volt I also found interesting.
1. The goal of future generations of the Volt is NOT to extend the 40 mile battery only range. Since over 70% of Americans can commute in that distance there is not as much to gain by extending that range. The goal of 2nd and 3rd generation Volts will be to make smaller, lighter, and less expensive batteries that perform as well as the originals.
2. Bose and GM jointly announced that the Bose sound system to be installed in the Volt will be 30 percent smaller, 40 percent lighter, and use 50 percent less energy than conventional Bose sound systems. This might not sound like much but it translates into removing about 50 lbs. of mass from the Volt.
3. The folks over at Goodyear have developed a new tire that is expected to increase the Volt's fuel economy even further.

Any way you slice it GM is betting big on the Volt. I'm proud our dealerships will be among the first to offer this new technology for sale.

Stay tuned for more product updates as they are announced.

Also - if you can't wait for the Volt - remember that GM offers 17 models that will get you over 30 MPG today.

Marketing 101

2009-02-05T17:38:00.000-08:00

Today I had one of those "why didn't we think of this sooner" moments. Since we knew the weather would cooperate, the used car department decided to mix up the lot and wash all used cars in the process. Neither move was revolutionary, but a suggestion by our Used Vehicle Manager turned out to be a great idea.

Since we were moving cars anyway, we took the 15 used 'special units' and put them all together in the same row. The special units are generally comprised of cars, trucks, and vans that have been on the lot for a while and therefore receive extra discounts.

There are at least two main benefits:
1. The customer can see all the best deals all in one area of the lot
2. The salesperson knows right where these vehicles are to help the customer get an extra value

The third benefit, arguably, is tying the virtual sales world of our web site specials to the physical layout of our lot. This serves to reinforce that our specials represent great buys.

Let's hope our customers are as excited for the newly cleaned and aligned used car lot as I am!

OnStar has you covered from 22,300 miles away

2009-02-02T16:36:00.000-08:00

Most people I run into have heard of GM's OnStar service and know a little bit about what it can do. Some features many are familiar with include:

Ability to remotely unlock your car doors if you lock your keys inside - from an OnStar satellite orbiting 22,300 miles above earth.

Automatic crash notification to emergency services if you get in an accident.

Hands free calling

Those who are really 'in the know' about OnStar may even be aware of these features:

OnStar Vehicle Diagnostics that will send you monthly email 'status reports' on your vehicle letting you know if all systems are go.

Turn-by-turn navigation provided by telling an advisor where you would like to go, then letting your vehicle direct you with onboard GPS.

Unless you are an OnStar Ninja (or OSN if you are scoring at home) you probably don't know about the following cutting edge OnStar features:

OnStar Vehicle Diagnostics Dealer Notification. This is a twist on the monthly emails sent to you with status updates on your car. If you decide to opt in on the Dealer Notifications, our dealership (McEleney Autoplex or McEleney Autocenter) will also be notified when your vehicle is due for service.

MapQuest destination download. This new service allows you to visit MapQuest.com and download a destination directly into your car or truck. Spend 5 minutes online, send the destination to your vehicle, and off you go.

Advisor to navigation destination download. This feature allows you - while driving - to contact an OnStar advisor, give her a destination, and have that destination downloaded in real time to your navigation system.

OnStar high speed pursuit preventative technology. For more details see the video below.

Epic Lap

2009-01-30T13:12:00.000-08:00

There's a big football game this Sunday - or that's the word on the street.

Check out the Super Bowl commercial Hyundai has cooked up for their new Genesis Coupe.

More details on the making of the commercial.

New Digs

2009-01-30T07:55:00.000-08:00

Just a few weeks ago we re-opened our Hyundai / Used Vehicle showroom here at McEleney Autoplex in Iowa City. While we were all 'one big happy family' in our GM showroom for the better part of two years we are now back home.

We added about 1350 square feet and changed the layout of the showroom. The showroom floor expansion amounts to about 54 feet by 25 feet. While we used to be able to fit only two vehicles in our showroom, I'm looking out at 4 today including the Hyundai Accent, Elantra, Sonata, and all new Genesis.

Please check out some of the construction photos below and of course the finished product. Drop by anytime to see the new place for yourself!

Initial frame work erected

Roof beams installed

Front facia of the building installed

View from east side of building looking west

Framing complete

Concrete showfloor being poured

Duct work

Interior under construction

Exterior insulation installation

The finished product on a sunny day

Terry Adam's new office - complete with door!

Showroom view looking NE

Showroom view looking SE

License and Registration, Please

2009-01-28T18:40:00.000-08:00

I just read an interesting post over at a blog called Lifehacker. They report that a company that helps insurance companies quantify risk - ISO Quality Planning - has put together a list of the most and least ticketed vehicles in America.

The top spot on this list belongs to the Hummer H2 and H3. Rounding out the top 10 are Mercedes, Toyota, Subaru and Audi. I also got a kick out of the fact that pretty much every Scion - xA, xB, and tC - is on the 10 most ticketed list too.

In closing, I'd like to point out that McEleney dealerships sell 8 out of the top 10 least ticketed vehicles.

What does that mean in the end? Well, not much I guess. But it's interesting.

Not to be negative but another list that always seems to catch my eye is the Most Stolen Cars in America.

The NICB list is based on information reported to the National Crime Information Center.

Here are the 5 most stolen vehicles as reported by the NICB — the number in parentheses is the model year most stolen:

Honda Civic (1995 model)
Honda Accord (1991 model)
Toyota Camry (1989 model)
Ford F-150 (1997 model)
Chevrolet C/K 1500 (1994 model)

So if you've got a 1995 Honda Civic you better buy The Club, get a lock on your garage, or better still stop by and see us in Iowa City or Clinton and trade it in!

2009 NADA Convention Video

2009-01-27T18:05:00.000-08:00

More photos and my take on the convention to come soon. Please see below to get a look at some video from the closing session of this year's convention.

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John McEleney speaking for the first time as NADA Chairman

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Presidents George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton

For more video and information about NADA or the NADA convention visit http://www.nada.org/MediaCenter/NADATV/nadatv2009convention.htm

2009 NADA Convention - Part 1

2009-01-26T11:49:00.000-08:00

This year's National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) convention is in New Orleans. So far the convention has gone well. The opening session included a talk by outgoing chairman Annette Sykora, Ford CEO Alan Mulally, and former NFL MVP Archie Manning.

Each outlined the bright spots of 2008 and each discussed the challenges ahead and those we've already faced. There are certainly fewer attendees at this year's convention but the information is as current and relevant as ever this year.

Later this afternoon incoming NADA Chairman John McEleney will speak before former President George Bush Sr. and former President Bill Clinton speak to the convention at the closing general session.

More to come including photos and likely a video of some speeches from the convention.

How do you say Venza in English?

2009-01-23T08:29:00.000-08:00

Well, you just say Venza, as in the new 2009 Toyota Venza. The new model seems to be named after a shortened version of the Italian work for Venice which is "Venezia." I supposed Toyota figured folks like me would butchered the word Venezia so they went with the snappy Venza instead.

In any case, Toyota outdid themselves with this new vehicle. Our dealership in Clinton, IA - McEleney Toyota - just sold its first Venza recently to one very happy customer. In terms of the product line the Venza falls somewhere between the Matrix and the Highlander. It's a crossover that's available in front wheel drive or the midwest favorite all wheel drive.

After checking out the photos online and watching some of the Venza commercials I can't figure out why I like it so much. I guess the overall package just works. I'll let you be the judge of that though.

For fun check out out this video of Ian Cartabiano, chief designer of the Venza, sketching the vehicle with the help of time-lapse video.

Chevrolet and Cadillac Converj

2009-01-22T15:30:00.000-08:00

Many have seen the commercials and spy photos and auto show video of the new Chevy Volt. The Volt is GM's new plug-in hybrid and is slated to be built by the end of calendar year 2010. This new car is able to drive up to 40 miles on battery power alone without the assistance of a gas motor. Even when you need the small gas powered generator to boost your range (up to about 300 miles) that generator will charge the battery and not directly power the wheels.

Pre-Production Chevrolet Volt

There are several benefits of a plug in hybrid such as the Volt not the least of which are:

Cost of around 2 cents per mile compared with internal combustion motors that cost between 7 and 13 cents per mile.

100+ MPG fuel economy

75% of Americans have a daily commute of less than 40 miles. This means most drivers can run exclusively on electric power most of the time.

GM is years ahead of Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Ford, Chrysler, and the rest with this technology. Though GM was late to the party with gas / electric hybrids they will be at the fore with plug ins.

Finally, GM intends to build the volt and the battery systems in Michigan. LG will be the battery cell provider for the initial production Volt.

You can plug your Volt in at home in your garage - no need for a special fueling station.

GM just announced that Cadillac will be releasing a model with the 'guts' of a Volt but with a more beautiful body. Behold the Cadillac Converj:

I think there are a lot of people out there that would agree with me in that I wish these vehicles were coming sooner. The great news is they will allow for more jobs here in the US and expand the "Green Collar" jobs that President Obama has been promoting during his campaign.

The near future might not be flying cars but if we can work to save our planet - I'll take it!

Everything old is new again

2009-01-21T12:38:00.000-08:00

What can I say about the new 2010 Camaro that hasn't already been said? I want one. The design is reminiscent of the 1960s version but with some state of the art technology mixed in. Production of the new Camaro is slated for the first quarter of this year. We hope to have our first Camaro for sale this April.

There will be two motors available. One is a V6 that will boast 27 MPG on the highway. Then there's the 6.2 L V8 that will scare the neighbors.

There's also a cool video of a Camaro ignition sequence below...

We currently have a waiting list for this car. If you'd like to put a deposit down on your new Camaro today contact Drew or Kevin at 319-354-1011 or just drop on by www.mceleneyautoplex.com.

Hyundai has your back

2009-01-20T19:35:00.001-08:00

Earlier this month Hyundai announced a new program that is the biggest thing since they introduced their industry leading 5 year / 60,000 mile and 10 year / 100,000 mile warranties.

The new program is called Hyundai Assurance and is targeted at anyone financing a new Hyundai. Here's how it works - finance or lease any new Hyundai, and if in the next year you lose your income*, we'll let you return it.

With all the various rebates and events going on, I applaud Hyundai for making a bold statement with the Assurance program. It's certainly a creative take on insuring your good credit.

*Hyundai will pay off the remaining balance of your loan and up to $7,500 of negative equity. Your credit score will not be affected as the bank see things as an early payoff of your loan. See dealer for complete details.

McEleney's TV giveaway - We have a winner!

2009-01-19T13:20:00.000-08:00

McEleney Autoplex in Iowa City, IA congratulates Jerry and Verlyn Stolte on winning a 42" LG flat screen television in our giveaway. The Stolte's winning entry was chosen from several hundred prize forms. Please check back for our next giveaway soon.

Pictured from left to right: Terry Adams, Jerry Stolte, Patrick Eads, E.J. Lehman, Verlyn Stolte, and John McEleney.