What Does The Automotive Industry Hold For Us In The Near Future?
As of press time, the automotive "big three"-GM, Ford, and Chrysler-are seeking a $25 billion loan as part of a bailout/stimulus package from our government. As the world's economy continues to spiral out of control, we find halfway across the globe that Japan has gone public that their economy is in a recession. Even automotive powerhouse Toyota's sales have dropped a staggering 23 percent in October, 2008. So where does this leave our slumping economy, and more importantly, our automotive aftermarket performance industry? It's hard to predict what lies ahead in our near future as news of Trust Japan filing bankruptcy and tuners-such as Harman Motive of Torrance, CA-surprisingly decide to close shop. Both companies have been well established within the industry for years and it's sad to see how rough times have affected them, as well as others.
But what can we do? For starters, we should focus on the mainstays of our industry and support the manufactures and companies that have developed quality products over the years. This means buying reputable products that truly work and stand the test of time. Buying knock-off products may become tempting when looking to save a few dollars here and there, but with every knock-off product you buy, you'll likely end up spending three times the price replacing or repairing it. The bottom line is: you get what you pay for and more often than not, knock-off products have crappy craftsmanship and fall apart faster than you can say JUNK! We won't name specific companies, that patiently wait to copy the next hottest product to hit the market-they know who they are! Now, I won't become some preacher, telling you what you can or can't install on your car, but its heartbreaking to think people are out there, peddling crap within our market, and consumers are buying into their schemes and installing it on their cars. Should I buy this part for 99 cents and take a chance of it blowing up my car or spend five dollars and have the piece of mind of knowing it's going to last longer and work more efficiently on my pride and joy? The choice is up to you, but I'd go with something that's been proven to work and trust those who have been in the industry long enough to produce quality parts.
Senior Editor
Scott Tsuneishi
scott@importtuner.com
Living It
Riding Shotgun With The Editors
 |  5Zigen JGTC Gt500 Toyota Supra...  5Zigen JGTC Gt500 Toyota Supra
I'm continually pestered about the build status of my 5Zigen GT500 Supra. To answer: A whole lot of nothing. It's the same for my other projects. With Scott on our team, I hope to free up some time to start working on them... "hope", being the operative word. |  '95 Honda Civic DX Coupe ...  '95 Honda Civic DX Coupe
It's busted, broken and beat down, but it's mine. The Civic has gone through hell and back as I prepare for an upcoming "test only" smog check. I'm confident the car will pass, but I have to question the validity of its Integra Type R throttle body and custom intake manifold. Will the smog techs overlook the parts? Should I slip them a 20 and call it a day? We shall see. |
 '93 Mazda Miata While my...  '93 Mazda Miata
While my DC2 is in limbo, awaiting a trans re-build, the project Miata has become my focus now: a full build for under $6K, including the cost of the car. After a full suspension, 2.2L engine swap, color change and more, it will definitely be a performer...the biggest challenge will be making it look less like a hairdresser's car. |  | |