Is your vehicle aging? You’re not alone.

The average age of the typical automobile on the road is at a record high of just over ten years old, yet studies show that January 2012 auto sales are expected to be at least 6% higher than January 2011 sales. For the entire year, the forecasts are expecting a jump from a 2011 number of 12.7 million cars sold (which was a 10% jump from the 2010 numbers.) to an impressive number of 13.9 million cars sold this year. It is considered to be a year of rebuilding, and that’s exactly what GM is doing not only with its revamped vehicle lineup, but over 2,000 dealerships across America are receiving an upgrade (Betten-Baker included). 

            Due to the decrease in vehicles bought and leased from 2007 to 2009, the market today for used cars is down, which is increasing trade-in values, driving customers to purchase new vehicles. I couldn’t see a better time for this to happen considering all of the new vehicles in the showrooms today. Manufacturers are also creating more fuel efficient vehicles for less money, giving customers the best of both worlds.

            There was however one benefit to the increasing age of automobiles for dealerships. The Service Departments saw a huge increase in people coming to them with their older vehicles, searching for help and replacement parts.

            Hopes are high for the automotive industry however, by 2015, 167,000 jobs are to be added which is a 28% increase over current levels. An interesting stat is that in 2009, car sales in America totaled $166 billion, while in 2011, sales totaled $206 billion.

            Coupled with the great trade-in values are new vehicle lineups which are enticing customers. Buick is revamping its entire lineup with vehicles like the sporty Regal GS and the fun Buick Verano. Chevy is remodeling almost all of their vehicles in the next two years including the popular Malibu and Silverado. Other manufacturers like Ford and Volkswagen are also obtaining all new body styles for popular cars like the Fusion and Passat. 

            I am excited about the automotive revival; the entire staff here at Betten Baker seems upbeat and excited about the new cars and we are looking forward to helping out the customers on deciding which cars best suit their needs.