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Interesting video on what we all know is going on with automobiles

Older I get more im astounded by both the group of folks who don't have money but spend like they do, as well as the astounding amount of folks who do have lots of money.

Few years back an old friend started sending me to go purchase survey boats for him. One of the brokers started requesting I do the same for other clients. One thing led to another and I've augmented my income the last half decade or so doing winter work going through high six to low seven figure toys. It's been a welcome change to winters getting my butt handed to me in western alaska, and exposed me to a different class of society. It's basically all the folks who for the last 24 years of runaway deficit spending have managed to profit off it. Under gingrich we were decreasing the deficit, 25 years later we're 32 trillion higher, it's made many multi millionaires...

Be that as it may, still doesn't account for hundreds of thousands of 75-90k diesel trucks sold by each brand a year.


At any rate, my hangup and that of my peers is that were doubtful a new rig will be as reliable as our 15 to 20 year old current vehicles. Making them a lousy deal at any price.
 
Older I get more im astounded by both the group of folks who don't have money but spend like they do, as well as the astounding amount of folks who do have lots of money.

Few years back an old friend started sending me to go purchase survey boats for him. One of the brokers started requesting I do the same for other clients. One thing led to another and I've augmented my income the last half decade or so doing winter work going through high six to low seven figure toys. It's been a welcome change to winters getting my butt handed to me in western alaska, and exposed me to a different class of society. It's basically all the folks who for the last 24 years of runaway deficit spending have managed to profit off it. Under gingrich we were decreasing the deficit, 25 years later we're 32 trillion higher, it's made many multi millionaires...

Be that as it may, still doesn't account for hundreds of thousands of 75-90k diesel trucks sold by each brand a year.


At any rate, my hangup and that of my peers is that were doubtful a new rig will be as reliable as our 15 to 20 year old current vehicles. Making them a lousy deal at any price.
As a transmission technician, I would not buy a vehicle that was built in recent years. I drive a gen 2 Dodge Ram. I can rebuild the engine transmission and t-case for less than the cost of an 8 or 10 speed transmission. I just keep rebuilding my old truck. I see people refinancing a four-year-old truck to add in the cost of a transmission replacement. The same guys have a $75,000.00 travel trailer to hunt from. I have a canopy on my truck to sleep in.
 
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KBB Top 10 in 2024:

1. Ford F-Series[/H2

2. Chevrolet Silverado

3. Toyota RAV4

4. Tesla Model Y

5. Honda CR-V

6. Ram Pickups

7. Toyota Camry

8. GMC Sierra

9. Nissan Rogue

10. Honda Civic


From Cargurus:
"If 2024 had one defining theme, it would be affordability. As consumers became more price conscious in response to high interest rates and stubbornly high prices, demand for used vehicles

Other key themes for 2024 include:
  • The rise of hybrids: With the broader shift toward affordability, declining hybrid prices helped bring the segment center stage in 2024—taking on the demand that many expected for electric vehicles (EVs). The average price of a new hybrid dropped nearly 10% in 2024, reaching $46,600 (compared to the average new EV price of $62,000). As a result, several new hybrid models topped this year's list of fastest-moving vehicles, including the Toyota Sienna, Toyota Highlander Hybrid, and Honda Civic Hybrid.
  • A late model year listing shortage: The legacy of the semiconductor shortage is making its mark on the used vehicle market, with 2020 and 2021 models noticeably harder to find compared to years prior. While overall used car inventory stabilized in 2024 (down only 1%), 2021 model-year inventory dropped by nearly 22%, and 2020 models saw a 17% decline. These gaps will shape the used market for the next several years.
  • Shoppers' love of larger body styles—especially pickups—remained strong in 2024: In examining the most viewed models of 2024, pickups dominated. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Ford F-150, and GMC Sierra 1500 topped the list of most viewed 2024 models. The 2025 models capturing the most attention included the RAM 1500, Toyota Camry, and Honda Pilot.
The report also highlights trends to watch in 2025, including:

  • The potential impact of tariffs: As uncertainty around tariffs looms large, select automakers could see greater impacts than others. As of November, Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz, and Kia have the highest percentage of listed models made outside of North America. The key factor determining the scale of impact will be the timing of policy decisions and whether automakers will have sufficient lead time to adjust plans before tariffs are implemented.
  • Influence of EV tax credits on demand: The possible end to the New Clean Vehicle Tax Credit ($7,500) and Used Clean Vehicle Credit ($4,000) could potentially limit EV sales demand in 2025—especially as shoppers focus on affordability. This is especially pronounced in the used market, where one-third of listings fall under the $25,000qualification limit (as of November). This price segment drives strong demand, accounting for over 37% of sales year-to-date. Shoppers looking to take advantage of the credit now will find the greatest availability of qualifying used models in the Tesla Model 3, Chevy Bolt, and Nissan Leaf.
  • A rise in demand for higher-priced models: While shoppers are still expected to prioritize affordability in 2025, the potential for even lower interest rates could expand buying power for buyers seeking lower monthly payments. This, in turn, may reignite demand for more premium options. However, this will also depend on decisions around tariffs and their impacts on automotive pricing.


My key point is look at the rise of EV's into top 10 sales. That is not accidental. It is regulation and tax credit base, right? Shoppers seem to be turning to EV's, but apprehensive shoppers seem to be turning to hybrid and plug in hybrid.

More info on the regulation drivers:

 
KBB Top 10 in 2024:

1. Ford F-Series[/H2

2. Chevrolet Silverado

3. Toyota RAV4

4. Tesla Model Y

5. Honda CR-V

6. Ram Pickups

7. Toyota Camry

8. GMC Sierra

9. Nissan Rogue

10. Honda Civic


From Cargurus:
"If 2024 had one defining theme, it would be affordability. As consumers became more price conscious in response to high interest rates and stubbornly high prices, demand for used vehicles

Other key themes for 2024 include:
  • The rise of hybrids: With the broader shift toward affordability, declining hybrid prices helped bring the segment center stage in 2024—taking on the demand that many expected for electric vehicles (EVs). The average price of a new hybrid dropped nearly 10% in 2024, reaching $46,600 (compared to the average new EV price of $62,000). As a result, several new hybrid models topped this year's list of fastest-moving vehicles, including the Toyota Sienna, Toyota Highlander Hybrid, and Honda Civic Hybrid.
  • A late model year listing shortage: The legacy of the semiconductor shortage is making its mark on the used vehicle market, with 2020 and 2021 models noticeably harder to find compared to years prior. While overall used car inventory stabilized in 2024 (down only 1%), 2021 model-year inventory dropped by nearly 22%, and 2020 models saw a 17% decline. These gaps will shape the used market for the next several years.
  • Shoppers' love of larger body styles—especially pickups—remained strong in 2024: In examining the most viewed models of 2024, pickups dominated. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Ford F-150, and GMC Sierra 1500 topped the list of most viewed 2024 models. The 2025 models capturing the most attention included the RAM 1500, Toyota Camry, and Honda Pilot.
The report also highlights trends to watch in 2025, including:

  • The potential impact of tariffs: As uncertainty around tariffs looms large, select automakers could see greater impacts than others. As of November, Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz, and Kia have the highest percentage of listed models made outside of North America. The key factor determining the scale of impact will be the timing of policy decisions and whether automakers will have sufficient lead time to adjust plans before tariffs are implemented.
  • Influence of EV tax credits on demand: The possible end to the New Clean Vehicle Tax Credit ($7,500) and Used Clean Vehicle Credit ($4,000) could potentially limit EV sales demand in 2025—especially as shoppers focus on affordability. This is especially pronounced in the used market, where one-third of listings fall under the $25,000qualification limit (as of November). This price segment drives strong demand, accounting for over 37% of sales year-to-date. Shoppers looking to take advantage of the credit now will find the greatest availability of qualifying used models in the Tesla Model 3, Chevy Bolt, and Nissan Leaf.
  • A rise in demand for higher-priced models: While shoppers are still expected to prioritize affordability in 2025, the potential for even lower interest rates could expand buying power for buyers seeking lower monthly payments. This, in turn, may reignite demand for more premium options. However, this will also depend on decisions around tariffs and their impacts on automotive pricing.


My key point is look at the rise of EV's into top 10 sales. That is not accidental. It is regulation and tax credit base, right? Shoppers seem to be turning to EV's, but apprehensive shoppers seem to be turning to hybrid and plug in hybrid.

More info on the regulation drivers:

It's my understanding EV sales are in the tank. Guy in the video says that as well.
 
It's my understanding EV sales are in the tank. Guy in the video says that as well.
Sure….those are 2024 numbers.

Also, my point wasn't whether customers were buying or not. Just that there is so much pressure on customers and automakers and dealers that they will be the only choice.

Do you think Trump is going to change that? Remember the people only voted for him, but another guy has a hand in his pocket. That guy makes EV's. That guy is also working to outsource the government to Tesla…..uh, I mean work on efficiency…
 
Also, my point wasn't whether customers were buying or not. Just that there is so much pressure on customers and automakers and dealers that they will be the only choice.
Sure. No debate here.
Do you think Trump is going to change that? Remember the people only voted for him, but another guy has a hand in his pocket. That guy makes EV's. That guy is also working to outsource the government to Tesla…..uh, I mean work on efficiency…
I'm with you on this. I'm not sure how much I trust Musk.
 
The push to get rid of gas and diesel engines comes from the world economic forum and the group that had the summit in Brazil back in 92 or so. Can't remember the name.
Anyway they were pushing banks not to give loans to any companies that are producing gas engines and getting governments to give incentives to push electric vehicles.
I believe that is why the newer vehicles are engineered so cheaply. The automakers are being given money from governments to push for electric but people see that it's a scam and can't sale them a vehicle that takes 30 min to charge and is dead in the winter is a hard sell.
Hybrids are much better but still most people rather not deal with them.
Basically we have the elite demonic ruling class that is detached from the rest of the working class dictating how the working class should live. All the while they can fly on private jets to meetings on how we the unclean use to much of their resources and how they can kill,steal and destroy from other countries to
further their wealth while the tax payers are paying for it.
Sorry just my rant
 
As a transmission technician, I would not buy a vehicle that was built in recent years. I drive a gen 2 Dodge Ram. I can rebuild the engine transmission and t-case for less than the cost of an 8 or 10 speed transmission. I just keep rebuilding my old truck. I see people refinancing a four-year-old truck to add in the cost of a transmission replacement. The same guys have a $75,000.00 travel trailer hunting from. I have a canopy on my truck to sleep in.
I have a 2004 Chevy Duramax crew cab around 285000 miles on it . Hade to wait 6 months to find a used f.i.c.m. to replace the one that went out during COVID but nothing else major ever. Every time I ask my mechanic do I need to sell it ? He replies h ll no! So I just keep driving it. Got a 2021 Chevy 1500 so far so good
 
I have a 2004 Chevy Duramax crew cab around 285000 miles on it . Hade to wait 6 months to find a used f.i.c.m. to replace the one that went out during COVID but nothing else major ever. Every time I ask my mechanic do I need to sell it ? He replies h ll no! So I just keep driving it. Got a 2021 Chevy 1500 so far so good
2004 Duramax, no don't sell it.
 
Sure….those are 2024 numbers.

Also, my point wasn't whether customers were buying or not. Just that there is so much pressure on customers and automakers and dealers that they will be the only choice.

Do you think Trump is going to change that? Remember the people only voted for him, but another guy has a hand in his pocket. That guy makes EV's. That guy is also working to outsource the government to Tesla…..uh, I mean work on efficiency…
Interestingly, Musk is headed for hydrogen power. IMO, Hydrogen is going to replace EV quickly.
 
I have a 2009 Quad cab Ram 2500 5.7 with 204K and still going strong. Original motor, transmission completely replaced at 125K due to noisy pump. 🤷🏻‍♂️ Maybe cause truck has lifetime warranty from FC. It was provided as purchase incentive. Hardly used. Starting to rust over rear wheels. Filled in with maritime adhesive normally used for attaching transducers to stern of boats. After 18 months seems to have slowed it down a lot. 8' box so Sasquatch size can sleep on cot with cap on truck. Quite comfortable even at my old age.

No factory electronic update connection which I prefer. Newer vehicles are tracked as part of the connection. If worried about satellite connection, pull fuse.

Change transfer case and pumpkin fluids every 50K. Simple stuff keeps them running. Though plugs every 30-35K PITA.
 
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