Why American automakers have problems and import vehicles are better?

Question

Or should Is it true that import vehicles are better?

I work in automotive industry and I see nothing but media CONSTANTLY weeping Big 3 in quality, styling, etc. I disagree, we have good product, I just wish everyone is going to wake up and realize that we are loosing World War III and this war is economical and not military…

Answer 1

It all stems from the 1960's counterculture ("hippie") movement. These folks made the VW beetle an icon and today aspire to create similar status for the Toyota Prius.

The auto becomes a political statement for these invariably Democrat buyers. Somewhat curious when you consider that Democrats are supported by every large union like the UAW whose members build american cars.

Beyond that, what makes a large japanese or german company "good" and a large american company "bad", especicial if you live and work in america?

Answer 2

Our family has owned both American and import vehicles. And let me tell you that the problem with most American cars is not really mechanical woes....but the quality of the materials used for their cars (trim, switches, etc), and the fact that they age in a hurry. Our 4 year old Sundance at the time looked like a 15 year old rust bucket with fading panels.

We had a Buick Skyhawk (cousin to the old Pontiac Sunbird) whose dashboard and interior started to peel off and discolor. Same story for a Plymouth Sundance that we had.

The irony? I had a 2005 Acura RSX Type-S, a car that was recommended by Consumer Reports and everyone else, and I hated it because it was in the shop all the time with suspension and tranny woes. I lemon lawed it, won the lawsuit, and got me a much better car in my opinion (see below)

My mom has a 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer that it's a joy to drive and rock solid reliable. I have a 2007 Subaru WRX that I say the same about.

Bottom line is, American manufacturers have got to stop using cheap materials to put their cars together. If they fix that problem, they should do fine. Unless they are like Ford, which insults the American consumer by giving us mundane cars like the Focus and the Fusion, instead of the Mondeo (the cool looking 4 door sedan in Casino Royale), and the european spec Focus.

Answer 3

Honda recalled 1 million vehicles last week,Toyota recalled 2.7 million vehicles in 2006 and has engine lawsuits pending.I guess that's not what you wanted to hear is it?Also because Toyota and Japan work together to keep the Yen undervalued they gain $4500avg on every vehicle imported and they import 50% of thier vehicles sold in the US.That gives them more money for newer and better technolodgy.

Answer 4

For one element. GM has the main autos that get 30 MPG or extra suitable. they have a clean complete length Yukon SUV Hybrid that gets a similar MPG as a Toyota Camry. in case you knew something bearing directly to the motor vehicle marketplace you could comprehend it takes atleast 4-5 years to thoroughly layout, attempt and marketplace a thoroughly new kind and technologies. are you able to make certain into the destiny and determine the place the economic equipment would be in 5 years?

Answer 5

American automakers have problems because of poor business decisions made years ago. They are paying massive amounts of money to retirees that they thought would be long gone. They could get government protection from these outdated pension plans but that would hardly endear them to the American public. Add to that the out of control unions that demand that semi-skilled laborers get paid far more then their job is worth and the fact that Americans typically get paid more than most other countries and you see why American automakers just have massive overhead issues. So they cut corners to stay alive.

Answer 6

Reliability is NOT what is pulling down the American automakers.

Perception of reliability is a factor though; just look at all the people who STILL say Honda, Toyota etc. are more reliable, when that's been proven false (by Consumer Reports) for years.

Answer 7

Its because the Technology is different. Asians are the smartest people in the world so they make cars the smart way. They have much better technology when it comes to cars.

Answer 8

on who's account I have three touble free fords with over 150000 on them one with 205000
There are more posts in the honda section than the ford for a reason