Automotive Industry Predicts Increase in Car Sales for 2012
A prominent number of automotive analysts are predicting a rebound year in new car sales for 2012. Estimates of US sales range up to 14 million new units, aided by easier credit and increasing employment. From a safety point of view, we must make sure that first-time buyers know how to care for and maintain their cars, especially high-performance cars like BMWs that experience spirited use. Oil changes, tire rotations, inspection and replacement of a worn BMW valve cover gasket, and hundreds of other details must be managed to keep your new car in tip-top shape.
Pent-up demand for new cars is evidenced by the fact that Americans are still not buying one new car for every old car that has to be retired. That, coupled with the modest decrease in the unemployment rate, bode well for the rest of the year. Another factor is that consumers may be numb to bad economic news after having lived in the worst economic environment since the 1930s. Automakers in this country are expected to produce almost a million more units in 2012 relative to 2011.
Happily, death rates from automobile accidents are declining as sales are increasing. Several factors are contributing to this encouraging trend, including:
- enforcement of seat belt laws
- proliferation of multi-airbag models
- increased use of electronic stability control and crash avoidance technology
- laws against texting and calling when driving
- longer car warranties
- higher awareness of maintenance requirements
Extended warranties have become a popular selling tool for car manufacturers and salesmen. Consumers are constantly encouraged to perform routine maintenance on their cars, even if the parts are not covered by warranties because they wear out due to normal usage (brake pads, spark plugs, etc.).
Driver education courses emphasize the hazards of distracted driving. Smartphones are the most ubiquitous culprits, but let's not forget about driving under the influence, using trip computers while driving, hands-free phone calling, overly loud music, and even viewing movies while driving.
New drivers need to understand the role of the emergency engine light in protecting your car from severe internal damage. Driving with the light lit can occur for any number of reasons: loose hoses, low fluid levels, a damaged BMW head gasket, loss of vacuum, etc. Drivers should immediately bring or tow their cars into a repair shop for diagnosis and repair. And don't forget – buckle up for safety!
