Ken's Weekly Newsletter - 11/16/02 - The latest news and more!

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Old 11-16-2002, 01:49 PM
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Ken Fichtner
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Default Ken's Weekly Newsletter - 11/16/02 - The latest news and more!

Hello from your small town Montana Chevy dealer.

As we approach the holiday season it is more than appropriate to give thanks for all that we have. Friends, family, communities and the freedoms that we enjoy cannot be taken for granted.

I sincerely appreciate the business that each of you have given us this year. I would also like to thank those of you who have promoted our business on other websites and forums. Thanks for your faith in our ability to provide high quality in everything that we do at the lowest possible cost. I appreciate your confidence in us!

** Important Announcement:
We have now established a shipping and handling chart for parts and accessories. Read more about this in Bob’s newsletters.

Important news:

We are now offering the 2002 Indy Pace Car Decal package. This is the same package used on the Indy Pace Car this year!

GM has revised the rebates and finance programs for November and December.

GM Employee, Supplier, Dealer plan vehicle eligibility changes.

Weekly production constraints: Convertibles, Millennium Yellow on Coupes, and Performance Axle Ratio on Coupes not available this week!

2003 Chevrolet Interim Price Increase Effective 10/04/2002

Service Issues:
1) CAUTION – Warranty voided on Vehicles Imported into the US from Canada
2) Transmission Slip on 2003 Corvettes

Please note that I am continuing to publish the news in 2 parts again this week because of the length of the newsletter.

Make sure to read part 1 and part 2!!!

Thanks for taking the time to read my weekly newsletter.

For More Information:

Corvette or Chevrolet Sales, GM Protection Plan, Promotional Materials, Production and Allocation Questions
Ken Fichtner
Email: KenFichtner@hotmail.com
Phone: 406-628-4618 Ext 103

Parts and Services Needs
Robert Wendorff
Email: corvetteparts@hotmail.com
Phone: 406-628-4121
http://www.fichtnerchevrolet.com
This is our dealership home page. Visit us and let us know what you think of our site!
http://www.glassreunioncorvetteclub.com/index.htm
This is the Corvette club’s webpage. We sponsor this club!

Index of topics:

Weekly Newsletter – Contents
1) Indy Pace Car Decal Package
2) GM Rebates/Special Finance Rates – 2002 and 2003 Models!!
3) 2003/2004/2005 SSR Information
4) Event Codes and what they mean
5) 2003 Chevrolet Interim Price Increase Effective 10/04/2002
6) CAUTION – Warranty Voided on Vehicles Imported from Canada
7) 2003 Corvette Transmission Slippage
8) Corvette 50th Anniversary Website - Updated
9) General Motors Protection Plan, MajorGuard – Detailed Explanation Here!
10) GM Employee & Supplier 2003 Eligibility - UPDATED
11) Weekly Constraint/Production News – UPDATED

1) Indy Pace Car Decal Package

As you may recall, the Corvette 50th Anniversary Edition paced the 2002 Indianapolis 500. This was the thirteenth time that a Chevrolet paced this famed race and the fifth time that Corvette was chosen for this distinction

In recognition of this honor, Chevrolet is pleased to announce that a special Corvette 50th Anniversary Indy 500 Pace Car decal package is now available. This graphics package contains the decals required to give a Corvette 50th Anniversary Edition coupe the appearance of a 2002 Indianapolis 500 pace car.

The details of the package are below:

Contents: 19 piece graphics package, instructions, and applicator squeegee
Availability: On or before December 1, 2002

The package is available as a GM Official Licensed Product.

Note: Due to the complexity of these decals, it is recommended that a professional graphics installer complete the installation.

We know that many of you have been waiting for this graphics package.

We are offering this package at a special price to Forum members of $465 plus S/H.

To place an order before the packages are all gone, please call Robert Wendorff in our parts department at 406-628-4121 or email him at corvetteparts@hotmail.com


2) GM Rebates/Special Finance Rates – Completely new 11/1/02

The new incentives for 2002 and 2003 GM models have been announced!

Please find them listed below:

PROGRAM TIME PERIOD (DELIVERED):
-------------------------------
NOVEMBER 1, 2002 THROUGH JANUARY 2, 2003

CONSUMER O ALTERNATE GMAC APR* A DLR
2002 MODELS CASH R 12-36 37-48 49-60 N CASH
----------- -------- ----- ----- ----- D ----
BUICK:
# CENTURY -1SL $3000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# CENTURY &1SL $3000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# REGAL -1SL $3000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# REGAL &1SL $3000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# LESABRE $3000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# PARK AVENUE $3000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# ULTRA $3000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# RENDEZVOUS $3000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
CADILLAC:
# DEVILLE $4000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $2000
# DHS $4000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $2000
# DTS $4000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $2000
# ELDORADO (ALL MODELS) $4000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $2000
# SEVILLE (ALL MODELS) $4000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $2000
# ESCALADE $1000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $2000
# ESCALADE EXT $2000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $2000
CHEVROLET:
# PRIZM $3000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# CAVALIER $2500 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# MALIBU $3000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# IMPALA $2500 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# MONTE CARLO $2500 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# CAMARO $3000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# CORVETTE $1000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# S-10 PICKUP $3000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# C/K 3500HD CHASSIS CAB $2000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# SILVERADO (ALL MODELS) $2000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# AVALANCHE $2000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# TRACKER $3000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# BLAZER $2500 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# TRAILBLAZER $2000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# TRAILBLAZER EXT $2000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# TAHOE $2000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# SUBURBAN $2000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# VENTURE $4000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# ASTRO (06) PASSENGER $3000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# ASTRO (05) CARGO -YF7 $3000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# ASTRO (05) CARGO &YF7 $3000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# EXPRESS (06) PASSENGER $3000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# EXPRESS LT &1SL $3000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# EXPRESS (05) CARGO
-YF7/1SL $3000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# EXPRESS (05) CARGO &YF7 $3000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# EXPRESS CUT (03/32) $3000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
OLDSMOBILE:
# ALERO $3000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# INTRIGUE $3000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# AURORA $3000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# BRAVADA $2000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# SILHOUETTE $4000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
PONTIAC-GMC:
# SUNFIRE $2500 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# GRAND AM $3000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# GRAND PRIX $3000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# BONNEVILLE (ALL MODELS) $3000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# FIREBIRD $3000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# AZTEK $3000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# MONTANA $4000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# SONOMA PICKUP $3000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# CLASSIC SIERRA 3500HD
CHASSIS CAB $2000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# SIERRA (ALL MODELS) $2000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# ENVOY $2000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# ENVOY XL $2000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# YUKON $2000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# YUKON XL $2000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# YUKON DENALI &1SF $2000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# YUKON XL DENALI &1SF $2000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# SAFARI (06) PASSENGER $3000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# SAFARI (05) CARGO -YF7 $3000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# SAFARI (05) CARGO &YF7 $3000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# SAVANA (06) PASSENGER $3000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# SAVANA SLT &1SL $3000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# SAVANA (05) CARGO-YF7/1SL $3000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# SAVANA (05) CARGO &YF7 $3000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0
# SAVANA CUT (03/32) $3000 0.0 0.0 0.0 $ 0

* ALTERNATE GMAC APR: AVAILABLE FOR S, A, B & C TIER
QUALIFYING CUSTOMERS ONLY (10.9% FOR D & E).
USE STATE LAW RATE CEILING IF LOWER.
# DENOTES CHANGE

CONSUMER O ALTERNATE GMAC APR* A DLR
2003 MODELS CASH R 12-36 37-48 49-60 N CASH
----------- -------- ------ ----- ----- D ----
BUICK:
CENTURY -1SL $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
CENTURY &1SL $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
REGAL -1SL $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
REGAL &1SL $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
LESABRE $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
PARK AVENUE $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
ULTRA $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
RENDEZVOUS $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
CADILLAC:
CTS $ 0 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
DEVILLE (ALL MODELS) $ 0 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
SEVILLE (ALL MODELS) $ 0 0.0 2.9 3.9 $2000
ESCALADE $ 0 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
ESCALADE EXT $ 0 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
CHEVROLET:
CAVALIER $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
MALIBU $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
IMPALA $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
MONTE CARLO $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
CORVETTE $ 0 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
S-10 PICKUP $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
SILVERADO (ALL MODELS) $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
C4500 KODIAK $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
AVALANCHE $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
TRACKER $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
BLAZER $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
TRAILBLAZER $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
TRAILBLAZER EXT $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
TAHOE $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
SUBURBAN $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
VENTURE $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
ASTRO (06) PASSENGER $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
ASTRO (05) CARGO -YF7 $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
ASTRO (05) CARGO &YF7 $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
EXPRESS (06) PASSENGER $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
EXPRESS (05) CARGO -YF7 $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
EXPRESS (05) CARGO &YF7 $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
EXPRESS CUT (03/32) $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
HUMMER:
H2 $ 0 STD STD STD $ 0
OLDSMOBILE:
ALERO $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
AURORA $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
BRAVADA $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
SILHOUETTE $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
PONTIAC-GMC:
SUNFIRE $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
GRAND AM $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
GRAND PRIX $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
BONNEVILLE (ALL MODELS) $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
VIBE $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
AZTEK $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
MONTANA $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
SONOMA PICKUP $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
SIERRA (ALL MODELS) $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
C4500 TOPKICK $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
ENVOY $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
ENVOY XL $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
YUKON $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
YUKON XL $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
YUKON DENALI &1SF $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
YUKON XL DENALI &1SF $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
SAFARI (06) PASSENGER $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
SAFARI (05) CARGO -YF7 $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
SAFARI (05) CARGO &YF7 $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
SAVANA (06) PASSENGER $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
SAVANA (05) CARGO-YF7 $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
SAVANA (05) CARGO &YF7 $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0
SAVANA CUT (03/32) $2000 0.0 2.9 3.9 $ 0

* ALTERNATE GMAC APR: AVAILABLE FOR S, A, B & C TIER
QUALIFYING CUSTOMERS ONLY (10.9% FOR D & E). USE
STATE LAW RATE CEILING IF LOWER.
# DENOTES CHANGE

(OPTION 2) EXHIBIT 2 - 2003 MODELS
CONSUMER CASH & APR COMBO
CONSUMER CASH (ABF) AND ALT. GMAC APR (XMD) AND DEALER CASH (DWE)
SALES TO RESIDENTS IN THE WESTERN REGION

CONSUMER A ALTERNATE GMAC APR* A DLR
2003 MODELS CASH N 12-36 37-48 49-60 N CASH
----------- -------- D ----- ----- ----- D ----
CHEVROLET:
CAVALIER $1000 3.9 4.9 5.9 $ 0
MALIBU $1000 3.9 4.9 5.9 $ 0
S-10 PICKP $1000 3.9 4.9 5.9 $ 0
TRACKER $1000 3.9 4.9 5.9 $ 0
BLAZER $1000 3.9 4.9 5.9 $ 0
TRAILBLAZER $1000 3.9 4.9 5.9 $ 0
TRAILBLAZER EXT $1000 3.9 4.9 5.9 $ 0
VENTURE $1000 3.9 4.9 5.9 $ 0
ASTRO (ALL MODELS) $1000 3.9 4.9 5.9 $ 0
OLDSMOBILE:
ALERO $1000 3.9 4.9 5.9 $ 0
BRAVADA $1000 3.9 4.9 5.9 $ 0
SILHOUETTE $1000 3.9 4.9 5.9 $ 0
PONTIAC-GMC:
SUNFIRE $1000 3.9 4.9 5.9 $ 0
GRAND AM $1000 3.9 4.9 5.9 $ 0
VIBE $1000 3.9 4.9 5.9 $ 0
MONTANA $1000 3.9 4.9 5.9 $ 0
SONOMA $1000 3.9 4.9 5.9 $ 0
ENVOY $1000 3.9 4.9 5.9 $ 0
ENVOY XL $1000 3.9 4.9 5.9 $ 0
SAFARI (ALL MODELS) $1000 3.9 4.9 5.9 $ 0

* ALTERNATE GMAC APR: AVAILABLE FOR S, A, B & C TIER
QUALIFYING CUSTOMERS ONLY (10.9% FOR D & E).
USE STATE LAW RATE CEILING IF LOWER.
# DENOTES CHANGE



2002/2003 BUICK/CHEVROLET/OLDSMOBILE/PONTIAC-GMC 'BONUS CASH' INCENTIVE

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:
-------------------
BUICK, CHEVROLET, OLDSMOBILE AND PONTIAC-GMC ARE ANNOUNCING A
$1000 'BONUS CASH' INCENTIVE THAT IS INCREMENTAL TO ALL OTHER
ELIGIBLE INCENTIVES. THIS OFFER IS GOOD TOWARDS THE PURCHASE
OR LEASE OF ONE OF THE SELECT ELIGIBLE NEW AND UNUSED 2002/2003
MODELS LISTED IN GUIDELINE NUMBER 4 BELOW.

- ON GMAC SMARTLEASE/SMARTBUY CONTRACTS, THIS ALLOWANCE MUST
BE UTILIZED TO REDUCE THE CAPITALIZED COST OF THE GMAC
SMARTLEASE CONTRACT OR THE AMOUNT TO FINANCE FOR THE GMAC
SMARTBUY CONTRACT. ON GMAC SMARTLEASE/SMARTBUY CONTRACTS,
THIS ALLOWANCE MAY NOT BE OFFERED AS CASH TO THE CUSTOMER.

PROGRAM TIME PERIOD (DELIVERED):
-------------------------------
NOVEMBER 1, 2002 THROUGH JANUARY 2, 2003

ELIGIBLE MODELS/REQUIRED OPTIONS/ORDER TYPES AND ALLOWANCES:
-----------------------------------------------------------
ELIGIBLE MODELS: THE NEW AND UNUSED 2002/2003 BUICK, CHEVROLET,
OLDSMOBILE AND PONTIAC MODELS LISTED BELOW:

2002/2003 MODELS
----------------
BUICK:
CENTURY
REGAL

CHEVROLET:
MALIBU
IMPALA
MONTE CARLO
VENTURE

OLDSMOBILE:
ALERO
INTRIGUE
SILHOUETTE

PONTIAC:
GRAND AM
GRAND PRIX
MONTANA

3) 2003/2004/2005 SSR Information

Dear Chevy Dealer,
I hope that you are as excited as we are at Chevrolet about the Chevy SSR. It certainly exemplifies GM’s initiative to be fast. SSR was first shown at the North American International Auto Show in January 2000 as a concept. It was then quickly given the go-ahead in August 2000 and will begin to appear in Chevrolet dealerships early next year.
SSR is an important vehicle for Chevrolet and it’s dealers. And while the launch is still months away, we’re already moving on key issues.
SSR Distribution Plan: Since SSR will begin retail production in early 2003 in very limited volume, we felt that this is the right time to provide an overview of SSR allocation. The following summarizes our intended plans, which are approximate at this point. As we near launch, we will assess these plans as business conditions dictate.
As a halo vehicle to Chevrolet, dealer allocation will be based on each dealership’s Chevrolet retail sales for a full calendar year, including both cars and trucks.
Volume will be extremely limited as we accelerate the Lansing Craft Centre, eventually leveling at 10,000-12,000 annually under current plans.
To assist your planning we are providing a rough estimate of the anticipated number of units that dealerships would likely receive based on 2001 calendar year Chevrolet vehicle retail sales and the current preliminary SSR production plan. These estimated numbers are not a commitment to provide any dealership with a specific number of SSR units. The actual allocation will be based on revised, more definitive production plans and the most recent then available 12 months of Chevrolet retail sales data. We expect to finalize the actual allocation sometime during the fourth quarter of 2002. The estimates based on last year’s date should give each dealer a very rough idea of the number of SSRs it may receive.
This should also help avoid unnecessary customer dissatisfaction arising from unrealistic expectations likely during SSR distribution. Dealers are specifically cautioned against over-promising the availability of SSRs to customers.
Based upon 2001 calendar year retail sales and rough preliminary production estimates, a dealer would have to sell 500 retail Chevrolet vehicles to earn a 2003 model year SSR.
Based upon 2001 calendar year retail sales and rough preliminary production estimates, a dealer would have to sell 250 retail Chevrolet vehicles to earn a 2004 model year SSR.
By the end of the 2004 calendar year, Chevrolet plans to allocate each Chevrolet dealer at least one SSR (some would be 2005 model year vehicles).

4) Event Codes and what they mean

Every dealer has the ability to monitor the progress of a specific order as identified by its order number (6 digits) assigned upon order generation to the dealership. Here are the event codes that a dealer can view and their meaning:
2001-Order generated to dealer
2005-Order replaced with GM Prospec order
2050-Order changed
2500-Order sent to production, preferenced
3000-Order accepted by production control
3100-Order available to sequence (now the tpw becomes more stable)
3400-Order broadcasted for production
3800-Vehicle produced
4150-Vehicled invoiced to dealer
4200-Vehicle shipped
5000-Vehicle delivered to dealer
6000-Vehicle delivered to customer
6010-Vehicle delivery change

5) 2003 Chevrolet Interim Price Increase Effective 10/04/2002

Chevrolet will announce revised 2003 model year Suggested Retail prices effective with vehicles produced on or after October 4, 2002. The revised Suggested Retail prices will affect the Astro, Avalanche, Blazer, Cavalier, Corvette, Express, Impala, Malibu, Monte Carlo, S10 Pickup, Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe, Tracker, Trailblazer, Trailblazer EXT, and Venture. Dealer invoice amounts will increase accordingly. Dealer discounts remain unchanged.
Dealer price schedules will be available on the dealer pricing website effective October 4, 2002. Reference administrative message #VSG19990259 (dated December 10, 1999) for more information regarding this web site.
All qualified bona fide sold retail orders entered in VOMS on or before October 3, 2002 and delivered to the original customer after that date will be price protected. These units will be invoiced at prices in effect at the date of production; however, the dealer open account will automatically be credited for the price increase once the unit has been delivered.
Generally, fleet orders are invoice price protected (i.e., bid center FBC order types, VQ orders). All other fleet orders will be price protected according to the bona fide sold retail price protection policy above. Refer to the price protection effective date on the invoice.

6) CAUTION – Warranty on Imported Vehicles

To: All General Motors Dealers
From: John Smith, VP and General Manager, General Motors Corporation

As explained in out May 16, 2002 letter, General Motors is very concerned about new GM motor vehicles intended for sale in other countries that are being exported and resold in the United States. Similarly, General Motors of Canada Limited (“GMCL”) shares these concerns and has been taking steps to address the problem of vehicles intended for sale in Canada that are being exported into the U.S.

GMCL’s dealers are authorized to sell GM vehicles only to customers located in Canada. Canadian Dealers are prohibited from selling new motor vehicles for resale or primary use outside of Canada.

To enforce this provision of the Dealer Sales and Service Agreement, GMCL has established a requirement that vehicles must be registered in Canada and retained for principal use in Canada for a period of at least 6 months AND at least 12,000 kilometers (equivalent of 7500 miles).

Consistent with the above requirements, GM is establishing the following limitations on the performance of warranty work by U.S. dealers.

For new motor vehicles originally sold in Canada and with an “in-service date” on or after September 1, 2002, such vehicles must be “in-service” for at least 6 months AND have at least 7500 miles (12,000 kilometers) before a GM Dealer in the U.S. is authorized to perform warranty work, unless the owner of the vehicle requesting warranty work in the U.S. is a Canadian resident traveling in the U.S. or the Canadian customer has subsequently moved to the U.S. Dealers must verify the customer’s Canadian residency (i.e. Canadian driver’s license and Canada vehicle registration), and keep a copy of it in the dealer’s files. If a new motor vehicle originally sold in Canada has either less than 6 months “in-service” or less than 7500 miles (12,000 kilometers), a GM Dealer in the U.S. is not authorized to perform warranty work and the customer must return to an authorized GMCL dealer in Canada for any warranty work.

All dealers in the U.S. can verify the original source of any vehicles or the “in-service date” for vehicles sold in Canada through the GM Vehicle Inquiry System. Dealers should already be checking GMVIS when performing warranty work to ensure that recalls are performed as provided in Article 6 of our Service Policies and Procedures Manual.

In addition to these actions, GM and GMCL are reviewing the allocation of various models and equipment to Canadian and U.S. dealers, and will make adjustments in products being allocated to each country where such product is subject to unauthorized export activity.

7) 2003 Corvette Transmission Slip

Attention: Service Manager

Subject: Slips in 3rd and or 4th, Slips in all Forward Gears at Low Miles (Test Pressure Control Solenoid - PCS)

Models: 2003 Cadillac: Escalade, Chevrolet: Avalanche, Silverado, Tahoe, Suburban, Blazer, Trailblazer, S10, Astro, Express, Corvette, GMC: Sierra, Yukon, Yukon XL, Envoy, Sonoma, Safari, Savana, Oldsmobile: Bravada Equipped with 4L60E (M30) Automatic Transmission

Some early production vehicles may experience a slip in 3rd or 4th gear or in all forward gears at approximately 1,500 - 3,000 miles . This slip may be due to a distress of the 3-4 clutch or the forward clutch. The cause of the clutch distress may be a pressure control solenoid (PCS) which does not respond properly and "sticks" in a low line condition. If the PCS sticks it can create transmission line pressure which is too low in some conditions resulting in clutch distress. If diagnosis determines that one or more clutch packs are burned be sure to perform a Line Pressure Check Procedure as detailed in SI.

A Line Pressure Check requires the use of a Tech II and a line pressure gage. When performing this test it is very important to start the test at 1.0 amps and reduce the commanded amperage in 0.1 amp increments while reading the corresponding line pressure on a pressure gage. A faulty PCS will result in low line pressure until approximately 0.4 to 0.3 amps are commanded. After reaching this amperage the PCS will function properly until maximum amps are commanded again. If the PCS passes the Line Pressure Check it is not faulty and does not need to be replaced.

8) Corvette 50th Anniversary Website

TO: ALL CHEVROLET DEALERS

Subject: Corvette50th.com September Update

Corvette50th.com September Update Includes Exclusive Dave Hill Interview

The summer is coming to a close, but the Corvette 50th Anniversary Year is just hitting stride. It’s been a busy couple of months, and Corvette50th.com has been there every step of the way. We’ll keep you in the know. The September update of Corvette50th.com features:

An exclusive interview with Corvette Chief Engineer Dave Hill, with his thoughts on the past, present and future of Corvette, including the C6
Anniversary Road Tour wrap-ups
Three new Anniversary Stories from Corvette enthusiasts
Updated Frequently Asked Questions

Dave Hill Interview
Corvette50th.com recently had the chance to sit down with the man behind the magic curtain, Chief Engineer and Corvette wizard Dave Hill. Hill gives his thoughts on previous Corvette Chief Engineers, Corvette’s place in society and the next generation Corvette. It’s an exclusive article to Corvette50th.com.

Road Tour Wrap-ups
The Anniversary Road Tour (ART) continues to crisscross the country, hitting key car events along the way. The ART visited Hot August Nights in July and the Woodward Dream Cruise and Corvettes at Carlisle in August. Corvette50th.com has complete wrap-ups of all three events.

Anniversary Stories
Stories from excited enthusiasts continue to pour into the Anniversary Stories mailbox. Three new narratives are live on Corvette50th.com.

Tickets and Hotels
As always, Corvette50th.com is your one-stop shop for Corvette 50th Anniversary Celebration tickets and hotel accommodations. A limited number of hotel rooms are still available at a special Corvette rate. Hotels are filling up fast, so don’t delay.

Thank you again for your continued interest in the celebration and for visiting http://www.corvette50th.com.

9) General Motors Protection Plan, MajorGuard

To find out more about the GM Protection Plan, click here: http://www.gmprotectionplan.com

Remember that NO ONE sells the GMPP MajorGuard for less than one of the original supporting dealers, Fichtner Chevrolet!
PLEASE NOTE THAT IF YOU PURCHASE THE PLAN THE SAME DAY AS YOU TAKE DELIVERY OF YOUR NEW CAR OR TRUCK, THE PRICE IS LOWER!!!

As an independent new car dealer, Fichtner Chevrolet is authorized by General Motors to sell the GM Protection Plan/MRP.

Here’s more about the plan!
Major Guard can be purchased from any GM Dealer. To save big dollars, buy it from Fichtner Chevrolet. Many dealers mark-up Major Guard beyond GM suggested prices by several hundred dollars. We are continuing to offer the plan at a substantial discount below the suggested retail price!

I am also offering the same pricing on all GM vehicles. Not just Corvettes!! Please email me for a quote specific to the model of GM car or truck.

Major Guard is honored nation-wide and it doesn’t matter where you bought the plan! Major Guard is a policy of General Motors Corporation. Be very careful of policies written by other companies that may no longer be in business when you need them! There have been hundreds of these companies going broke in the past. In addition, this policy is good at any GM dealership. The vast majority of dealerships will not honor any policy except those sold by General Motors. The GM Protection Plan protects your vehicle and assures that it is repaired to GM standards whenever necessary. Second, the plan is completely transferable to subsequent owners of your vehicle adding to the vehicle’s resale value. The GM Protection Plan comes with a GM money-back guarantee of satisfaction. You get a full refund if you cancel the Plan within 60 days of purchase and no claim is filed. After 60 days, your refund is prorated, (less a small administration fee).
For years, millions of Major Guard customers have known that, “From the engine to the trunk lock, if it breaks – or even if it just plan wears out – and it’s not on the list of the few items not covered, Major Guard will pay for the repair less your deductible – whatever it is!”

What does Major Guard cover?
It’s as simple as this: If it’s not on the very short list of what’s not covered, it’s covered!

WHAT’S NOT COVERED? (Quoted from the actual policy)
“Unless required in connection with the repair of a covered part, GM will not pay anything under the agreement that is related to normal maintenance service including engine tune-up, suspension alignment, wheel balancing, filters, lubricants, engine coolant, drive belts, radiator hoses, heater and vacuum hoses, windshield wiper blades, air conditioning recharging, fluids, spark/glow plugs, brake pads, linings and shoes, brake rotors, manual clutch disc, or any other maintenance service or part required to be performed or replaced as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer’s Maintenance Schedule. Additionally, neither rust damage nor any of the following parts or services are covered under any circumstance: sheet metal, body panels, carpet, weather-strips, lenses, sealed beams, light bulbs, tires, trim, convertible or vinyl tops, moldings, bright metal, upholstery, paint, exhaust system, catalytic converter, hinges, brake drums, shock absorbers, batteries, carburetor, correction of air and water leaks, wind noise, odors, squeaks, rattles, contaminated fuel systems, bumpers, body parts, and glass.”

Major Guard provides 24-hour no cash needed towing and roadside assistance. Major Guard will authorize towing or emergency road service for any disablement of your covered vehicle, or will reimburse you up to $50 for these expenses. Benefits include towing, flat tire service, battery jump, out-of-gas fuel delivery and locksmith and key service. Major Guard will pay the charge to rent a replacement vehicle whenever the new vehicle limited warranty or Major Guard covered repairs require 2.0 or more manufacturers’ labor time guide hours to repair.

For any vehicle that is still inside the new vehicle limited warranty period, Major Guard time and mileage limits start on the same day as the new vehicle limited warranty and at 0 miles. Coverage ends at the earlier of the selected time or mileage. The term of coverage includes the new vehicle limited warranty. You may purchase the plan at any time but such coverage must be purchased prior to the end of the new vehicle limited warranty of 36 months or 36000 miles. Major Guard can be transferred when you sell your vehicle. Major Guard is recognized by dealers in the US and Canada. It makes sense to return to your selling dealer, but if you find it inconvenient to do so, you may use any commercial repair facility! Just refer to the Coverage Agreement for the appropriate phone number to call.

Due to an amendment to the GM Protection Plan Dealer Agreement I am not allowed to post the prices of the plan. Please email me for a specific quote. I would be pleased to email or fax you the prices. Of course you may also call me at 406-628-4618. Here are the plan terms that are available:
36 Months with mileage total of 50K, 60K, 75K, or 100K
48 Months with a mileage total of 50K, 60K, 75K, or 100K
60 Months with a mileage total of 50K, 60K, 75K, or 100K
72 Months with a mileage total of 50K, 60K, 75K, or 100K
84 Months with a mileage total of 50K, 60K, 75K, or 100K

Application is simple. Provide me with your name, address, phone number, VIN of you car, present mileage or the odometer reading upon delivery when purchasing the plan the same day, and the term and miles desired. You may either call me at 406-628-4618 or email me at: kenfichtner@hotmail.com. We gladly accept Visa, Mastercard, Discover, or personal checks as a form of payment.

Benefits of having the GM Protection Plan during the base warranty period:

I am often times asked why one should purchase the GM Protection Plan before the base warranty expires so I thought it would be beneficial to all if I published a list of some of the benefits.
* The price is lower if you purchase the plan the same day as you take
delivery of a new car or truck.
* The price increases annually so waiting will without a doubt cost
more.
*GMPP is honored at all GM dealerships versus the base warranty which
is only honored at Chevrolet dealerships.
*GMPP covers a rental car if your vehicle needs 2.0 labor hours or more
of repair versus the base warranty which only covers a rental if your
car is disabled, in the dealership all day and then overnight.
GMPP covers items that break or wear out versus the base warranty which
only covers items that fail due to a quality or workmanship issue.
*If your base warranty expires your car is no longer eligible for a
GMPP.

General Motors has refined their marketing approach to be tuned to the lifestyle and buying approach of today’s consumer. These buyers seek information from a variety of sources. So, for the first time, the GM Protection Plan (GMPP) is being introduced to the information-seeking customer via the internet!
Please visit the new website here: http://www.gmprotectionplan.com
You will be able to view information on the available GMPP plans as well as brand specific information and more!

Supplemental Coverage:
*Tire Road Hazard
A new choice for customers this year is the Tire Road Hazard protection. This option is available for new vehicles exclusively and must be purchased with a GMPP on the date of new vehicle delivery. This coverage includes:
*100% flat tire protection
*Complete or prorated replacement of original 4 tires
*$150 per tire maximum
*$0 deductible
*The term is equial to the GM Protection Plan with a cap not to exceed 60 months or 50K miles whichever comes first

10) GM Employee & Supplier Eligibility for 2003 – Revised 10/18/02

EMPLOYEE VEHICLE UPDATE
Following are the 2003 Model Year restrictions from the individual Marketing Teams for the GM Employee Purchase Program, the GM Supplier New Vehicle Purchase Program, and the GM Dealership Employee Purchase Program as of October 10, 2002:

Buick - No restrictions.

Cadillac
CTS - Very limited GMU.
XLR - Not available for GM Employee, Supplier, or Dealership
Employee Purchase.

Chevrolet Cars
Corvette - Very limited GMU, Z06 is not available for Drive and Buy.
GMS and stock sales of supplier are eligible.
Only eligible for the U6C portion of the Dealership
Employee Purchase Program.

Chevrolet Trucks
Astro van - No cargo models in GMU.
Express van - No cargo models in GMU.
Silverado 1500 - 1SS (Silverado SS) will not be available for GMU until
approximately April, 2003.
Silverado 2500/2500HD - Orders must include a box (E63), no chassis
(ZW9/9W9) models allowed.
Silverado 3500 - Orders must include a box (E63), no chassis
(ZW9/9W9) models allowed.
Cutaway vans - Not available for GM Employee, Supplier, or Dealership
Employee Purchase.
Top Kick (C4500) - Not Available.
SSR - Not available for GM Employee, Supplier, or Dealership
Employee Purchase.

GMC
Safari van - No cargo models in GMU.
Savana van - No cargo models in GMU.
Sierra 2500/2500HD - Orders must include a box (E63), no chassis
(ZW9/9W9) models allowed.
Sierra 3500 - Orders must include a box (E63), no chassis (ZW9/9W9)
models allowed
Cutaway vans - Not available for GM Employee, Supplier, or
Dealership Employee Purchase.
Kodiak (C4500) - Not Available.

Oldsmobile - No restrictions.

Pontiac
Vibe - Very limited GMU. Available for all other programs.

Hummer
H2 - Very limited GMU

Saturn
Ion - GMU and GMS will be available on 1/1/2003.


11) Weekly Constraint/Production News – UPDATED

Constraints are distributed based on Available Days’ Supply (ADS), Controlled Method or Percent of Allocation (POA). Please refer to your GM Common Training Course Book #XDS01.OGD (page 2-12) for more information regarding these three methods. It is anticipated the majority of the time the ADS calculation will be used to calculate dealers’ weekly constraints. Dealers can use the weekly constraint wire to see the basic availability of an option. However, to view your availability of an option, dealers will need to view the “available constraints” screen in order management. The percentages on the weekly constraint wire are estimated based on the national retail number of the constrained option divided by the amount of retail orders being allocated for the week.

To: All Chevrolet Dealers
From: Distribution
Subject: Chevrolet Constraint Wire for 11-14-02

Model, Target Production Week, Constraint #, Description, % of National Allocation

Corvette 50th Anniversary, 12-9-02, No Constraints, Low volume production

Corvette Convertible, #463 – No Allocation for Convertibles this week, 25%, Temporary constraint due to volume

Corvette Convertible/Coupe, #464 – 79U Millennium Yellow, No Allocation this week, 25%, Plant capacity for model run

Corvette Convertible/Coupe, #467 – G92 Performance Axle, No Allocation this week, 25%, Café restriction for model run

*denotes change
#new constraint

Topic: VOMS Calendar for the Next 3 Weeks

WEEK 46 - BEGINNING THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2002

DIRECT CONTACT DEALERS/TELEMARKETING DEALERS: Submit preliminary order requests. Beginning, Thursday, November 14, 2002 view allocation and constraints. Set desired quantities and establish priorities. On Tuesday, November 19th, review and modify orders. Orders will be sent to POMS at 9:00 PM EST on November 19, 2002.

WEEK 47 - BEGINNING THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2002

DIRECT CONTACT DEALERS/TELEMARKETING DEALERS: Submit preliminary order requests. Beginning, Thursday, November 21, 2002 view allocation and constraints. Set desired quantities and establish priorities. On Tuesday, November 26th, review and modify orders. Orders will be sent to POMS at 9:00 PM EST on November 26, 2002.

WEEK 48 - BEGINNING THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2002

No Cycle due to the Thanksgiving Holiday.

Thanks for reading this week’s news!

YOUR COMMENTS AND SUGGESTIONS ARE WELCOME!
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